TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a propeller fan for use in a blower or the like.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Conventionally, a propeller fan is widely used for a blower or the like. For example,
JP 2012-052443 discloses a propeller fan having a hub and three blades.
[0003] The blade of a general propeller fan is formed to have a curved shape so as to bulge
in the direction of the negative pressure surface side. That is, in the blade of the
propeller fan, the camber, which is a distance from a chord line to a mean line in
a blade cross section, becomes maximum between the leading edge and the trailing edge
along the chord line of the blade. As can be seen from FIG. 6 of
JP 2012-052443, in each blade of the propeller fan, a position at which the camber becomes maximum
in the blade cross section is set to be located gradually closer to the leading edge
in the direction from the blade root toward the blade end.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
TECHNICAL PROBLEM
[0005] In a blade of a propeller fan, air flows back from the positive pressure surface
side to the negative pressure surface side via the blade end of the blade, so that
a blade end vortex is generated. This blade end vortex is generated in the vicinity
of a position where a differential pressure between the positive pressure surface
side and the negative pressure surface side of the blade becomes maximum. Therefore,
in the blade of the propeller fan, the blade end vortex is generated in the vicinity
of a position of the blade end where the camber becomes maximum.
[0006] The blade end vortex generated in the blade of the propeller fan develops larger
in the direction to the trailing edge of the blade. Therefore, as the position of
the blade end where the camber becomes maximum becomes farther away from the trailing
edge of the blade, the blade end vortex develops longer. As described above, in each
blade of the propeller fan of
JP 2012-052443, the position where the camber becomes maximum in the blade cross section becomes
relatively farther from the trailing edge in the direction from the blade root toward
the blade end. Therefore, in the propeller fan of
JP 2012-052443, the blade end vortex becomes longer and energy consumed for generation of the blade
end vortex is increased. As a result, fan efficiency may not be sufficiently improved.
[0007] In view of the foregoing, it is therefore an object of the present invention to improve
fan efficiency of a propeller fan.
SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM
[0008] A first aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a propeller fan comprising
a cylindrical hub (15) and a plurality of blades (20) extending outwardly from a side
surface of the hub (15). Each of the blades (20) is configured such that a distance
from a blade chord (31) to a mean line (32) in a blade cross section is set as a camber,
that in the blade cross section, a position on the chord line (31) where the camber
becomes maximum is set as a maximum camber position (A), that a ratio of a distance
(d) between a leading edge (23) and the maximum camber position (A) in the blade cross
section to a chord length (c) is set as a maximum camber position ratio (d/c), that
an end portion at the hub (15) side of the blade (20) is set as a blade root (21),
that an end portion of an outer circumferential side of the blade (20) is set as a
blade end (22), and that the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) at the blade end
(22) is larger than the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) at the blade root (21).
Each of the blades (20) is configured such that the maximum camber position ratio
(d/c) becomes maximum in an intermediate blade cross section (33a) located between
the blade root (21) and the blade end (22).
[0009] A blade end vortex (90) is generated in the vicinity of a position where the camber
becomes maximum at the blade end (22) of the blade (20) of the propeller fan (10).
As the generation position of this blade end vortex (90) approaches to the leading
edge (23) of the blade (20), the blade end vortex (90) becomes longer, and energy
consumed for the generation of the blade end vortex (90) increases.
[0010] In contrast, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the first aspect described
above, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) at the blade end (22) is larger than
the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) at the blade root (21). That is, in each blade
(20), the maximum camber position (A) at which the camber becomes maximum in the blade
cross section becomes closer to the trailing edge (24) at the blade end (22) of the
blade (20) than in the case of conventional propeller fans. Therefore, the development
of the blade end vortex maximum camber position (A) at which the camber becomes maximum
in the blade cross section becomes closer to the trailing edge (24) at the blade end
(22) of the blade (20) than in the case of conventional propeller fans. Therefore,
the development of the blade end vortex (90) is suppressed and the blade end vortex
(90) is shortened so that energy consumed for generation of the blade end vortex (90)
is reduced and fan efficiency is improved.
[0011] The phrase "monotonically increase" described in this specification is "weakly increase".
Accordingly, in each blade (20), the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) from the
first reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade end (22) may continuously
increase, or may be constant in some sections from the first reference blade section
(33) to the blade end (22).
[0012] According to the first aspect of the present disclosure, each blade (20) of the first
aspect is configured such that the maximum camber position ration (d/c) described
above becomes maximum in the first reference blade cross section (33) located between
the above blade root (21) and the above blade end (22).
[0013] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the first aspect, the maximum camber
position ratio (d/c) becomes maximum in the intermediate blade cross section (33a)
located closer to the blade root (21) than to the blade end (22).
[0014] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, each of the blades (20) of
the first aspect is configured such that the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) becomes
minimum at the blade root (21), and monotonously increases from the blade root (21)
described above toward the intermediate blade cross section (33a).
[0015] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the second aspect, the maximum camber
position ratio (d/c) monotonically increases from minimum at the blade root (21) to
maximum at the intermediate blade cross section (33a).
[0016] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, in each of the blades (20)
of the first or the second aspect, the distance from the blade root (21) to the intermediate
blade cross section (33a) is longer than the distance from the blade end (22) to the
intermediate blade cross section (33a).
[0017] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the third aspect, the intermediate
blade cross section (33a) is located closer to the blade end (22) than to the center
between the blade root (21) and the blade end (22). In this intermediate reference
blade cross section (33a), the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) becomes minimum.
[0018] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in any one of the first to
third aspects, in each of the blades (20), the maximum value of the camber in the
blade cross section is set as a maximum camber (f), a ratio of the maximum camber
(f) to the chord length (c) in the blade cross section, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes
maximum in the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b) between the blade root
(21) and the blade end (22), monotonically decreases from the second reference blade
cross section (33, 33b) toward the blade root (21), and monotonically decreases in
the direction from the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b) toward the blade
end (22)
[0019] In each of the blades (20) provided to the propeller fan (10) according to the fourth
aspect, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes maximum in the second reference blade cross
section (33, 33b) separated from the blade root (21) by a predetermined distance.
That is, in each blade (20), the camber ratio (f/c) monotonically decreases in the
direction from the second reference blade cross section (33,33b) toward the blade
root (21) and from the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b) toward the blade
end (22).
[0020] The phrase "monotonically decrease" described in this specification means "weakly
decrease". Accordingly, in each blade (20), the camber ratio (f/c) may continuously
decrease from the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b) toward the blade
end (22), or may be constant in some sections between the second reference blade cross
section (33, 33b) and the blade end (22).
[0021] The area of the blade root (21) of the blade (20) is in the vicinity of the hub (15),
so that turbulence of airflow tends to occur. On the other hand, in each blade (20)
of the propeller fan (10) of the fourth aspect, the camber ratio (f/c) monotonically
decreases in the direction from the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b)
toward the blade root (21). That is, the camber ratio (f/c) is smaller in the vicinity
of the blade root (21) of the blade (20) where turbulence of airflow tends to occur
than in the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b). Therefore, turbulence
of airflow in the vicinity of the blade root (21) of each blade (20) is suppressed,
and energy consumed by the disturbance is reduced. As a result, fan efficiency is
improved.
[0022] Further, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the fourth aspect, the camber
ratio (f/c) monotonically decreases in the direction from the second reference blade
cross section (33, 33b) toward the blade end (22). That is, in each blade (20), the
camber ratio (f/c) monotonically decreases in the direction from the second reference
blade cross section (33,33b) toward the blade end (22) where the circumferential speed
is faster than that of the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b). Therefore,
the work amount of the blade (20) (specifically, the lift force applied to the blades
(20)) is averaged over the entire blade (20), so that the fan efficiency is improved.
[0023] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, each of the blades (20) according to
the fourth aspect is configured such that the camber ratio (f/c) at the blade end
(22) is smaller than the camber ratio (f/c) at the blade root (21).
[0024] Here, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10), the circumferential speed of
the blade end (22) is higher than that of the blade root (21). Therefore, when the
camber ratio (f/c) at the blade end (22) is approximately equal to the camber ratio
(f/c) at the blade root (21), the air differential pressure between the positive pressure
surface (25) side and the negative pressure surface (26) side near the blade end (22)
of each blade (20) becomes too large, resulting in that the flow rate of air flowing
from the positive pressure surface (25) side to the negative pressure surface (26)
side via the blade end (22) of a blade (20) may increase, thereby causing decrease
in fan efficiency.
[0025] In contrast, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the fifth aspect, the
camber ratio (f/c) at the blade end (22) is smaller than the camber ratio (f/c) at
the blade root (21). Therefore, the air differential pressure between the positive
pressure surface (25) side and the negative pressure surface (26) side in the vicinity
of the blade end (22) of each blade (20) is suppressed to an extent which is not excessively
large. As a result, the flow rate of air flowing back from the positive pressure side
(25) side to the negative pressure surface (26) side via the blade end (22) of each
blade (20) can be reduced, thereby improving fan efficiency. Further, the blade end
vortex (90) generated in the vicinity of the blade end (22) is suppressed, so that
energy consumed to generate the blade end vortex (90) is reduced, which also results
in that the fan efficiency is improved.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0026] In the first aspect described above, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10),
the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) at the blade end (22) is larger than the maximum
camber position ratio (d/c) at the blade root (21). Therefore, the development of
the blade end vortex (90) is suppressed and the blade end vortex (90) is shortened
so that energy consumed for the generation of the blade end vortex (90) is reduced.
As a result, according to this aspect, the efficiency can be improved by reducing
the loss of power of driving the propeller fan (10) to rotate.
[0027] According to the second aspect described above, in each blade (20) of the propeller
fan (10), the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) monotonically increases from the
first reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade end (22), and becomes maximum
at the blade end (22). Therefore, the development of the blade end vortex (90) is
suppressed and the blade end vortex (90) is shortened so that energy consumed for
the generation of the blade end vortex (90) is reduced. As a result, according to
this aspect, the efficiency can be improved by reducing the loss of power of driving
the propeller fan (10) to rotate.
[0028] According to the fourth aspect described above, in each blade (20) of the propeller
fan (10), the camber ratio (f/c) becomes maximum in the second reference blade cross
section (33, 33b) located between the blade root (21) and the blade end (22), and
monotonically decreases in the direction from the second reference blade cross section
(33, 33b) toward the blade root (21) and monotonically decreases in the direction
from the second reference blade cross section (33, 33b) toward the blade end (22).
Therefore, turbulence of airflow in the vicinity of the blade root (21) of each blade
(20) can be suppressed, and the work amount of each blade (20) can be averaged over
the entire blade (20). Therefore, according to this aspect, the loss of power of driving
the fan to rotate can be further reduced, and fan efficiency can be further improved.
[0029] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the fifth aspect described above,
the camber ratio (f/c) at the blade end (22) is smaller than the camber ratio (f/c)
at the blade root (21). Therefore, it is possible to reduce the flow rate of air flowing
from the positive pressure surface (25) side to the negative pressure surface (26)
side via the blade end (22) of the blade (20), and the blade end vortex (90) generated
in the vicinity of the blade end (22) can be suppressed. Therefore, according to this
aspect, the loss of power of driving the fan to rotate can be further reduced, and
fan efficiency can be further improved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030]
[FIG. 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a propeller fan of an example.
[FIG. 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the propeller fan of the example.
[FIG. 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a blade cross section of a blade of the
propeller fan of the example.
[FIG. 4] FIG. 4 is a graph showing a relationship between a distance r from the rotational
center axis and the camber ratio (f/c) of the blade of the propeller fan of the example.
[FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a graph showing a relationship between the distance r from the
rotational center axis and the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) of the blade of
the propeller fan of the example.
[FIG. 6A] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the blade showing a blade cross section
of a blade root of the blade of the propeller fan of the example.
[FIG. 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the blade showing a reference blade
cross section of the blade of the propeller fan of the example.
[FIG. 6C] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the blade showing a blade cross section
of a blade end of the blade of the propeller fan the example.
[FIG.7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a propeller fan showing an airflow on the
propeller fan of the example
[FIG.8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a conventional propeller fan showing an airflow
on the conventional propeller fan
[FIG. 9] FIG. 9 is a graph showing a relationship between the distance r from the
rotational center axis and the camber ratio (f/c) of the blade of the propeller fan
of a first variation of the example.
[FIG. 10] FIG. 10 is a graph showing a relationship between the distance r from the
rotational center axis and the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) of the blade of
the propeller fan of a second variation of the example.
[FIG. 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a propeller fan of an embodiment.
[FIG. 12] FIG. 12 is a plan view of the propeller fan of the embodiment.
[FIG. 13] FIG. 13 is a graph showing a relationship between the distance r from the
rotational center axis and the camber ratio (f/c) of the blade of the propeller fan
of the embodiment.
[FIG. 14] FIG. 14 is a graph showing a relationship between the distance r from the
rotational center axis and the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) of the blade of
the propeller fan of the embodiment.
[FIG. 15A] FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of the blade showing a blade cross section
of the blade root of the blade of the propeller fan of the embodiment.
[FIG. 15B] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the blade showing a second reference
blade cross section of the blade of the propeller fan of the embodiment.
[FIG. 15C] FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view of the blade showing a blade cross section
of a blade end of the blade of the propeller fan of the embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT AND AN EXAMPLE
[0031] An embodiment of the present invention and an example will be described in detail
with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments and variations
are merely beneficial examples in nature, and are not intended to limit the scope,
applications, or use of the invention.
«Example»
[0032] The example will be described. A propeller fan (10) of this embodiment is configured
as an axial fan. The propeller fan (10) is provided, for example, in a heat source
unit of an air conditioner, and is used to supply outdoor air to a heat-source-side
heat exchanger.
- Propeller Fan Configuration -
[0033] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the propeller fan (10) of this example includes one
hub (15) and three blades (20). The hub (15) and the three blades (20) are integrally
formed. The propeller fan (10) is made of a resin.
[0034] The hub (15) is formed into a shape of a cylinder whose tip end face (upper surface
shown in FIG. 1) is closed. The hub (15) is attached to a drive shaft of a fan motor.
The center axis of the hub (15) is a rotational center axis (11) of the propeller
fan (10).
[0035] Each blade (20) is arranged to project outwardly from the outer peripheral surface
of the hub (15). The three blades (20) are arranged at regular angular intervals in
the circumferential direction of the hub (15). Each blade (20) has a shape extending
toward the outside in the radial direction of the propeller fan (10). The blades (20)
have the identical shape.
[0036] The blade (20) is configured such that an end portion on a radial center side (i.e.,
a hub (15) side) of the propeller fan (10) is a blade root (21), and an outer end
portion in a radial direction of the propeller fan (10) is a blade end (22). The blade
root (21) of each blade (20) is joined to the hub (15). The distance r
i from the rotational center axis (11) to the blade root (21) of the propeller fan
(10) is substantially constant over the entire length of the blade root (21). The
distance r
o from the rotational center axis (11) to the blade end (22) of the propeller fan (10)
is also substantially constant over the entire length of the blade end (22).
[0037] The blade (20) is configured such that a front edge in the rotation direction of
the propeller fan (10) is a leading edge (23), and a rear edge in the rotation direction
of the propeller fan (10) is a trailing edge (24). The leading edge (23) and the trailing
edge (24) of the blade (20) extend from the blade root (21) toward the blade end (22)
and thus extend toward the outer circumferential side of the propeller fan (10).
[0038] The blade (20) is inclined with respect to a plane orthogonal to the rotational center
axis (11) of the propeller fan (10). Specifically, the blade (20) is arranged such
that the leading edge (23) is located near a tip end (upper end shown in FIG. 1) of
the hub (15), and the trailing edge (24) is located near a base end (lower end shown
in FIG. 1) of the hub (15). The blade (20) is configured such that a front surface
(a downward face in FIG. 1) in the rotation direction of the propeller fan (10) is
a positive pressure surface (25), and a rear surface (an upward face in FIG. 1) in
the rotation direction of the propeller fan (10) is a negative pressure surface (26).
- Detailed Shape of Blades -
[0039] Hereinafter, the shape of the blade (20) will be described in detail.
[0040] The blade cross section shown in FIG. 3 is a planer view of a cross section, of a
blade (20), located at a distance r from a rotational center axis (11) of a propeller
fan (10). As shown in FIG. 3, the blade (20) is cambered so as to bulge toward the
negative pressure surface (26) side.
[0041] In the blade cross section shown in FIG. 3, a line segment connecting the leading
edge (23) and the trailing edge (24) is a chord line (31), and an angle formed by
the chord line (31) with a "plane orthogonal to the rotational center axis (11) of
the propeller fan (10)" is an attaching angle α. The chord length c is a value obtained
through dividing the arc length rθ having an arc radius r and a central angle θ by
a cosine cosα with respect to the attaching angle α (c = rθ/cosα). Note that θ is
a central angle of the blade (20) at the position located with the distance r from
the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10) (see FIG. 2), and the unit
thereof is radian.
[0042] In the blade cross section shown in FIG. 3, a line connecting the midpoints of the
positive pressure surface (25) and the negative pressure surface (26) is a mean line
(32), and the distance from the chord line (31) to the mean line (32) is a camber.
The camber gradually increases in the direction from the leading edge (23) to the
trailing edge (24) along the chord line (31), becomes maximum halfway between the
leading edge (23) and the trailing edge (24), and gradually decreases in the direction
from the position, at which the camber becomes maximum, toward the trailing edge (24).
The maximum value of the camber is the maximum camber f, and the position on the chord
line (31) where the camber reaches the maximum camber f is the maximum camber position
A. Further, the distance from the leading edge (23) to the maximum camber position
(A) is represented by d.
<Camber Ratio>
[0043] As shown in FIG. 4, in the blade (20) of this example, the camber ratio (f/c), which
is the ratio of the maximum camber f to the chord length c in the blade cross section,
varies in accordance with the distance from the rotational center axis (11) of the
propeller fan (10). This camber ratio (f/c) varies on a way from the blade root (21)
to the blade end (22) such that the camber ratio becomes relative maximum only once
and never becomes relative minimum.
[0044] Specifically, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes maximum value (f
m/c
m) in the reference blade cross section (33) located between the blade root (21) and
the blade end (22). Note that f
m is the maximum camber in the reference blade cross section (33), and c
m is the chord length in the reference blade cross section (33) (see FIG. 6B).
[0045] The camber ratio (f/c) gradually decreases in the direction from the reference blade
cross section (33) toward the blade root (21), and gradually decreases in the direction
from the reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade end (22). That is, when
r
i ≦ r ≦ r
m, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes smaller as the distance r becomes shorter, and when
r
m ≦ r ≦ r
o, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes smaller as the distance r becomes longer.
[0046] Here, the reference blade cross section (33) is a blade cross section at a position
where the distance from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10)
is represented by r
m. That is, the reference blade cross section (33) is a blade cross section which is
separated from the blade root (21) by a distance (r
m-r
i). In this example, the distance (r
m - r
i) from the blade root (21) to the reference blade cross section (33) is about 10%
(i.e., about 1/10) of the distance (r
o-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the blade end (22). That is, the reference blade cross
section (33) is located closer to the blade root (21) than to the center between the
blade root (21) and the blade end (22) in the radial direction of the propeller fan
(10).
[0047] The distance (r
m-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the reference blade cross section (33) is preferably
5% to 30% of the distance (r
o-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the blade end (22), more preferably 5% to 20% of the
distance (r
o-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the blade end (22), and yet more preferably 5% to 10%
of the distance (r
o-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the blade end (22).
[0048] In the blade (20) of this example, the camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is smaller than the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Specifically, the camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is substantially the half of the camber ratio (fi/ci) at the
blade root (21). The camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is preferably set to be equal to or less than the half of
the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21) and greater than or zero. Note that fi is the maximum camber
at the blade root (21), and ci is the chord length at the blade root (21) (see FIG.
6A). Further, f
o is the maximum camber at the blade end (22), and c
o is the chord length at the blade end (22) (see FIG. 6C).
<Maximum Camber Position Ratio>
[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, in the blade (20) of this example, the maximum camber position
ratio (d/c), which is the ratio of the distance d between the leading edge (23) and
the maximum camber position A to the chord length c, varies in accordance with the
distance from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10). The maximum
camber position ratio (d/c) varies on a way from the blade root (21) to the blade
end (22) such that the maximum camber position ratio becomes relative minimum only
once and never becomes relative maximum.
[0050] Specifically, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) reaches the minimum value (d
m/c
m) in the reference blade cross section (33) located between the blade root (21) and
the blade end (22). Note that d
m is the distance from the leading edge (23) to the maximum camber position A in the
reference blade cross section (33) (see FIG. 6B).
[0051] Further, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) gradually increases in the direction
from the reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade root (21), and gradually
increases in the direction from the reference blade cross section (33) toward the
blade end (22). That is, when r
i ≦ r ≦ r
m, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) becomes larger as the distance r becomes
shorter, and when r
m I r ≦ r
o, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) becomes larger as the distance r becomes
longer. As the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) increases, the maximum camber position
A moves relatively farther away from the leading edge (23), and the maximum camber
position A becomes relatively closer to the trailing edge (24). A maximum camber position
line (35) connecting the maximum camber positions Ain the blade cross section, which
are respectively positioned at certain distances from the rotational center axis (11)
of the propeller fan (10), is indicated by a long dashed double-short dashed line
in FIG. 2.
[0052] In this example, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) reaches the minimum value
and the camber ratio (f/c) reaches the maximum value in the reference blade cross
section (33). In other words, in this example, the first reference blade cross section
at which the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) reaches the minimum value coincides
with the second reference blade cross section at which the camber ratio (f/c) reaches
the maximum value.
[0053] In the blade (20) of this example, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) reaches
the maximum value (d
o/c
o) at the blade end (22). That is, in the blade (20) of this example, the maximum camber
position ratio (d
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is larger than the maximum camber position ratio (d
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Note that di is a distance from the leading edge (23) to
the maximum camber position A in the blade root (21) (see FIG. 6A), and d
o is a distance from the leading edge (23) to the maximum camber position A in the
blade end (22) (see FIG. 6C).
[0054] In the blade (20) of this example, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is set
to a value equal to or greater than 0.6 and equal to or smaller than 0.7 in all the
blade cross sections. It is preferable that the maximum camber position ratio (d/c)
is set to a value equal to or greater than 0.5 and equal to or smaller than 0.8.
<Attaching Angle>
[0055] As shown in FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C, in the blade (20) of this example, the attaching
angle α gradually decreases in the direction from the blade root (21) toward the blade
end (22). That is, the attaching angle α becomes smaller as the blade cross section
is farther away from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10). Therefore,
in the blade (20) of this example, the attaching angle α
i at the blade root (21) reaches the maximum value, and the attaching angle α
o at the blade end (22) reaches the minimum value.
- Blowing Effect of Propeller Fan -
[0056] The propeller fan (10) of this example is driven by a fan motor connected to a hub
(15), and rotates in the clockwise direction of FIG. 2. When the propeller fan (10)
rotates, air is pushed out in the direction of the rotational center axis (11) of
the propeller fan (10) by the blades (20).
[0057] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10), the air pressure on the positive pressure
surface (25) side becomes higher than the atmospheric pressure, and the air pressure
on the negative pressure surface (26) side becomes lower than the atmospheric pressure.
Therefore, lift force is applied to each of the blades (20) of the propeller fan (10).
The lift force pushes the blades (20) in the direction from the positive pressure
surface (25) toward the negative pressure surface (26). The lift force is a reaction
force for the force with which each of the blades (20) of the propeller fan (10) pushes
out air. Accordingly, the larger the lift force applied to the blades (20), the larger
the work amount of the blades (20) pushing out air.
<Relationship of the Camber Ratio to Airflow>
[0058] The region in the vicinity of the blade root (21) of the blade (20) in the propeller
fan (10) is the vicinity of the hub (15), so that turbulence of airflow tends to occur.
On the other hand, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, the
camber ratio (f/c) gradually decreases in the direction from the reference blade cross
section (33) toward the blade root (21). That is, the camber ratio (f/c) is smaller
in a region in the vicinity of the blade root (21) of the blade (20) where turbulence
of airflow tends to occur than in the reference blade cross section (33). Therefore,
turbulence of airflow in the vicinity of the blade root (21) of each blade (20) is
suppressed, and energy consumed by the disturbance is reduced. As a result, fan efficiency
is improved, and power consumption of the fan motor driving the propeller fan (10)
is reduced.
[0059] In addition, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, the camber
ratio (f/c) gradually decreases in the direction from the reference blade cross section
(33) toward the blade end (22). That is, in each blade (20), the camber ratio (f/c)
gradually decreases in the direction from the reference blade cross section (33) toward
the blade end (22) where the circumferential speed is faster than that of the reference
blade cross section (33). Therefore, the work amount of the blade (20) (specifically,
the lift force applied to the blades (20)) is averaged over the entire blade (20),
so that the fan efficiency is improved.
[0060] Here, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10), the circumferential speed of
the blade end (22) is higher than that of the blade root (21). Therefore, when the
camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is approximately equal to the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21), the air differential pressure between the positive pressure
surface (25) side and the negative pressure surface (26) side near the blade end (22)
of each blade (20) becomes too large, resulting in that the flow rate of air flowing
from the positive pressure surface (25) side to the negative pressure surface (26)
side via the blade end (22) of a blade (20) may increase, thereby causing decrease
in fan efficiency.
[0061] On the other hand, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example,
the camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is approximately the half of the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Therefore, the air differential pressure between the positive
pressure surface (25) side and the negative pressure surface (26) side in the vicinity
of the blade end (22) of each blade (20) is suppressed to an extent which is not excessively
large. As a result, the flow rate of air flowing back from the positive pressure side
(25) side to the negative pressure surface (26) side via the blade end (22) of each
blade (20) can be reduced, thereby improving fan efficiency. Further, the blade end
vortex (90) generated in the vicinity of the blade end (22) is suppressed, so that
energy consumed to generate the blade end vortex (90) is reduced, which also results
in that the fan efficiency is improved.
<Relationship between Maximum Camber Position Ratio to Airflow>
[0062] In the blade (20) of the propeller fan (10), a blade end vortex (90) is generated
in the vicinity of a position where the camber becomes maximum at the blade end (22).
As shown in FIG. 8, as the generation position of the blade end vortex (90) approaches
to the leading edge (23) of the blade (80), the blade end vortex (90) becomes longer,
and energy consumed for the generation of the blade end vortex (90) increases.
[0063] On the other hand, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example,
the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) gradually increases in the direction from
the reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade end (22). That is, in each
blade (20), the maximum camber position A at which the camber becomes maximum in the
blade cross section becomes relatively closer to the trailing edge (24) of the blade
(20) in the direction from the reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade
end (22). As shown in FIG. 7, the position where the blade end vortex (90) is generated
in the blade (20) of this example is closer to the trailing edge (24) of the blade
(20) than that in the conventional blade (80) shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, the development
of the blade end vortex (90) is suppressed and the blade end vortex (90) is shortened
so that energy consumed for the generation of the blade end vortex (90) is reduced.
As a result, fan efficiency is improved, and power consumption of the fan motor driving
the propeller fan (10) is reduced.
[0064] Here, there is a case where the airflow flowing from the leading edge (23) to the
trailing edge (24) along the negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20) separates
from the negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20) in the vicinity of the region
where the airflow just passes by the maximum camber position A. Therefore, if the
maximum camber position A is too close to the leading edge (23), the region where
the airflow separates from the negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20) is
enlarged, which may lead to increase in blowing sound and decrease in fan efficiency.
In order to avoid this problem, it is desirable to set the maximum camber position
ratio (d/c) to a value equal to or greater than 0.5. In view of the above, in the
blade (20) of this example, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is set to equal
to or greater than 0.6.
[0065] When the maximum camber position A is too close to the trailing edge (24), the shape
of the blade cross section is sharply bent at a position near the trailing edge (24).
Therefore, when the maximum camber position A is too close to the trailing edge (24),
the airflow flowing along the negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20) tends
to separate from the negative pressure surface (26). When the airflow separates from
the negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20), there arises a possibility of
increased blowing sound and decreased fan efficiency. In order to avoid this problem,
it is desirable to set the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) to a value equal to
or less than 0.8. In view of the above, in the blade (20) of this example, the maximum
camber position ratio (d/c) is set to equal to or less than 0.7.
[0066] As described above, in the blade (20) of this example, the attaching angle α becomes
larger in the blade cross section located closer to the blade root (21). The larger
the attaching angle α is, the more easily airflow flowing along the negative pressure
surface (26) of the blade (20) separates from the negative pressure surface (26).
On the other hand, when the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is substantially equal
to or greater than 0.5, the smaller the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is (i.
e., the closer the maximum camber position A is to the leading edge (23)), the less
likely airflow flowing along the negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20)
separates from the negative pressure surface (26). Therefore, in the blade (20) of
this example, in the region between the blade end (22) and the reference blade cross
section (33), the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) gradually decreases as the reference
blade cross section gets closer to the blade root (21) (i. e., as the attaching angle
α increases), thereby making it difficult for the airflow from separating from the
negative pressure surface (26) of the blade (20).
- Advantages of Example -
[0067] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, the maximum camber
position ratio (d/c) gradually increases from the reference blade cross section (33)
to the blade end (22), and becomes maximum at the blade end (22). Therefore, the development
of the blade end vortex (90) is suppressed and the blade end vortex (90) is shortened
so that energy consumed for the generation of the blade end vortex (90) is reduced.
As a result, according to this example, fan efficiency can be improved by reducing
the loss of power of driving the fan to rotate, and the power consumption of the fan
motor driving the propeller fan (10) can be reduced.
[0068] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, the maximum camber
position ratio (d/c) is set to equal to or greater than 0.5 to equal to or less than
0.8. Therefore, the airflow is less likely to separate from the negative pressure
surface (26) of the blade (20), so that the increase in air blowing sound caused by
the airflow detached and the reduction in fan efficiency can be avoided.
[0069] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, the camber ratio (f/c)
becomes maximum in the reference blade cross section (33), gradually decreases in
the direction from the reference blade cross section (33) toward the blade root (21),
and gradually decreases in the direction from the reference blade cross section (33)
toward the blade end (22). Therefore, turbulence of airflow in the vicinity of the
blade root (21) of each blade (20) can be suppressed, and the work amount of each
blade (20) can be averaged over the entire blade (20). Therefore, according to this
example, it is possible to further reduce the loss of power of driving the fan to
rotate, and to further improve the fan efficiency.
[0070] Moreover, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, the camber
ratio (f/c) at the blade end (22) is smaller than the camber ratio (f/c) at the blade
root (21). Therefore, it is possible to reduce the flow rate of air flowing from the
positive pressure surface (25) side to the negative pressure surface (26) side via
the blade end (22) of the blade (20), and the blade end vortex (90) generated in the
vicinity of the blade end (22) can be suppressed. Therefore, according to this example,
it is possible to further reduce the loss of power of driving the fan to rotate, and
to further improve the fan efficiency.
-First Variation of Example-
[0071] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, there may be a section
in which the camber ratio (f/c) is constant in one or both of: the region from the
blade root (21) to the reference blade cross section (33); and the region from the
reference blade cross section (33) to the blade end (22). For example, as shown in
FIG. 9, the camber ratio (f/c) may be constant in a region extending from a position
near the blade end (22) to the blade end (22) in the blade (20).
- Second Variation of Example -
[0072] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this example, there may be a section
in which the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is constant in one or both of: the
region from the blade root (21) to the reference blade cross section (33); and the
region from the reference blade cross section (33) to the blade end (22). Further,
as shown in FIG. 10, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) may be constant in a
region extending from the blade root (21) to the reference blade cross section (33)
in the blade (20). In this case, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) has a minimum
value in a region extending from the blade root (21) to the reference blade cross
section (33) in the blade (20).
<<Embodiment>>
[0073] An embodiment will be described. A propeller fan (10) of this embodiment is obtained
by changing the shape of blades (20) of the propeller fan (10) of the example. The
propeller fan (10) of this embodiment will be described mainly through explaining
a difference between the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment and the propeller fan
(10) of the example.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment includes
one hub (15) and three blades (20), as is the case with the propeller fan (10) of
the example.
- Detailed Shape of Blades -
[0075] The shape of the blade (20) will be described in detail. The blade (20) of this embodiment
is formed to have a curved shape so as to bulge in the direction of the negative pressure
surface (26) side. In this point, the embodiment has in common with the blades (20)
of the example.
<Camber Ratio>
[0076] As shown in FIG. 13, in the blade (20) of this embodiment, the camber ratio (f/c),
which is the ratio of the maximum camber f to the chord length c in the blade cross
section, varies in accordance with the distance from the rotational center axis (11)
of the propeller fan (10). This camber ratio (f/c) varies on a way from the blade
root (21) to the blade end (22) such that the camber ratio becomes relative maximum
only once and never becomes relative minimum.
[0077] Specifically, the camber ratio (f/c) reaches the maximum value (f
m2/c
m2) in the second reference blade cross section (33b) located between the blade root
(21) and the blade end (22). Note that f
m2 is the maximum camber in the second reference blade cross section (33b), and c
m2 is the chord length in the second reference blade cross section (33b) (see FIG. 15B).
[0078] The camber ratio (f/c) decreases gradually in the direction from the second reference
blade cross section (33b) toward the blade root (21), and gradually decreases in the
direction from the second reference blade cross section (33b) toward the blade end
(22). That is, when r
i ≦ r ≦ r
m2, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes larger as the distance r becomes larger, and when
r
m2 ≦ r ≦ r
o, the camber ratio (f/c) becomes smaller as the distance r becomes larger.
[0079] Here, the second reference blade cross section (33b) is a blade cross section at
a position at which the distance from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller
fan (10) is represented by r
m2. That is, the second reference blade cross section (33b) is a blade cross section
which is separated from the blade root (21) by a distance (r
m2-r
i). In this embodiment, the distance (r
m2-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the second reference blade cross section (33b) is about
15% of the distance (r
o-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the blade end (22). That is, the second reference blade
cross section (33b) is located closer to the blade root (21) than to the center of
the blade root (21) and the blade end (22) in the radial direction of the propeller
fan (10).
[0080] In the blade (20) of this embodiment, the camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is smaller than the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Specifically, the camber ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is about 55% of the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Note that fi is the maximum camber in the blade root (21),
and ci is the chord length in the blade root (21) (see FIG. 15A). Further, f
o is the maximum camber at the blade end (22), and c
o is the chord length at the blade end (22) (see FIG. 15C).
<Maximum Camber Position Ratio>
[0081] As shown in FIG. 14, in the blade (20) of this embodiment, the maximum camber position
ratio (d/c), which is the ratio of the distance d between the leading edge (23) and
the maximum camber position A to the chord length c, varies in accordance with the
distance from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10). The maximum
camber position ratio (d/c) varies on a way from the blade root (21) to the blade
end (22) such that the maximum camber position ratio becomes relative maximum only
once and never becomes relative minimum.
[0082] Specifically, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) has a maximum value (d
m1/c
m1) in the intermediate blade cross section (33a) located between the blade root (21)
and the blade end (22). Note that d
m1 is the distance from the leading edge (23) to the maximum camber position A in the
intermediate blade cross section (33).
[0083] The maximum camber position ratio (d/c) gradually increases in the direction from
the intermediate blade cross section (33a) toward the blade root (21), and gradually
decreases in the direction from the intermediate blade cross section (33a) toward
the blade end (22). That is, when r
i ≦ r ≦ r
m1, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) becomes larger as the distance r becomes
larger, and when r
m1 ≦ r ≦ r
o, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) becomes smaller as the distance r becomes
larger. As the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) increases, the maximum camber position
A moves relatively farther away from the leading edge (23), and the maximum camber
position A becomes relatively closer to the trailing edge (24). A maximum camber position
line (35) connecting the maximum camber positions Ain the blade cross section, which
are positioned at certain distances from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller
fan (10), is indicated by a long dashed double-short dashed line in FIG. 12.
[0084] Here, the intermediate blade cross section (33a) is a blade cross section at a position
at which the distance from the rotational center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10)
is represented by r
m1. That is, the intermediate blade cross section (33a) is a blade cross section which
is separated from the blade root (21) by a distance (r
m1-r
i). In this embodiment, the distance (r
m1 - r
i) from the blade root (21) to the intermediate blade cross section (33a) is about
90% of the distance (r
o-r
i) from the blade root (21) to the blade end (22). That is, intermediate blade cross
section (33a) is located closer to the blade end (22) than to the center of the blade
root (21) and the blade end (22) in the radial direction of the propeller fan (10).
[0085] In the blade (20) of this embodiment, the maximum camber position ratio (d
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is larger than the maximum camber position ratio (d
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Note that di is a distance from the leading edge (23) to
the maximum camber position A in the blade root (21) (see FIG. 15A), and d
o is a distance from the leading edge (23) to the maximum camber position A in the
blade end (22) (see FIG. 15C).
[0086] In the blade (20) of this embodiment, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is
set to a value equal to or greater than 0.55 and equal to or smaller than 0.65 in
all the blade cross sections. As is the case with the blade (20) of the example, it
is preferable in the blade (20) of this embodiment that the maximum camber position
ratio (d/c) is set to a value equal to or greater than 0.5 and equal to or smaller
than 0.8.
<Attaching Angle>
[0087] As shown in FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C, in the blade (20) of this embodiment, the attaching
angle α gradually decreases in the direction from the blade root (21) to the blade
end (22) as is the case with the blade (20) of the example. That is, the attaching
angle α becomes smaller in the blade cross section farther away from the rotational
center axis (11) of the propeller fan (10). Therefore, in the blade (20) of this embodiment,
the attaching angle α
i at the blade root (21) reaches the maximum value, and the attaching angle α
o at the blade end (22) reaches the minimum value.
- Blowing Effect of Propeller Fan -
[0088] The propeller fan (10) of this embodiment is driven by a fan motor connected to the
hub (15), and rotates in the clockwise direction of FIG. 12. When the propeller fan
(10) rotates, air is pushed out in the direction of the rotational center axis (11)
of the propeller fan (10) by the blades (20). Further, in each blade (20) of the propeller
fan (10), the air pressure on the positive pressure (25) side becomes higher than
the atmospheric pressure, and the air pressure on the negative pressure surface (26)
side becomes lower than the atmospheric pressure.
<Relationship of Camber ratio to Airflow>
[0089] In the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment, the camber ratio (f/c) is smaller in
the vicinity of the blade root (21) of the blade (20) where turbulence of airflow
is likely to occur than in the second reference blade cross section (33b). Therefore,
as is the case with the propeller fan (10) of the example, turbulence of airflow in
the vicinity of the blade root (21) of each blade (20) is suppressed, and energy consumed
by the disturbance is reduced. As a result, fan efficiency is improved, and power
consumption of the fan motor driving the propeller fan (10) is reduced.
[0090] Further, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment, the camber
ratio (f/c) gradually decreases in the direction from the second reference blade cross
section (33b) toward the blade end (22) where the circumferential speed is faster
than that of the second reference blade cross section (33b). Therefore, the work amount
of the blade (20) (specifically, the lift force applied to the blades (20)) is averaged
over the entire blade (20), so that the fan efficiency is improved.
[0091] Moreover, in each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment, the camber
ratio (f
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is approximately 56% of the camber ratio (f
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). Therefore, similar to the propeller fan (10) of the example,
the air differential pressure between the positive pressure surface (25) side and
the negative pressure surface (26) side in the vicinity of the blade end (22) of each
blade (20) is suppressed to an extent which is not excessively large. Therefore, the
flow rate of air flowing from the positive pressure side (25) side to the negative
pressure surface (26) side of the blade (20) can be reduced, and the blade end vortex
(90) generated in the vicinity of the blade end (22) can be suppressed, so that fan
efficiency can be improved.
<Relationship between Maximum Camber Position Ratio to Airflow>
[0092] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment, the maximum camber
position ratio (d
o/c
o) at the blade end (22) is larger than the maximum camber position ratio (d
i/c
i) at the blade root (21). That is, at the blade end (22) of each blade (20), the maximum
camber position A at which the camber becomes maximum in the blade cross section becomes
relatively closer to the trailing edge (24) of the blade (20). In the blade (20) of
this embodiment, similar to the blade (20) of the example, the position where the
blade end vortex (90) is generated in the blade (20) of this embodiment is close to
the trailing edge (24) of the blade (20). Therefore, the blade end vortex (90) is
shortened so that energy consumed for the generation of the blade end vortex (90)
is reduced, so that the energy consumption of the fan motor driving the propeller
fan (10) is reduced.
[0093] Further, as described in connection with the example, it is preferable in each blade
(20) of the propeller fan (10) that the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) is set
to a value equal to or greater than 0.5 and equal to or smaller than 0.8. In the propeller
fan (10) of this embodiment, the maximum camber position ratio (d/c) of each blade
(20) is set to a value equal to or greater than 0.55 and equal to or smaller than
0.65. As a result, a region where the airflow separates from the negative pressure
surface (26) of the blade (20) is reduced, so that the blowing sound is reduced and
the fan efficiency is improved.
[0094] In each blade (20) of the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment, the maximum camber
position ratio (d/c) gradually decreases as approaching the blade root (21) in a region
between the intermediate blade cross section (33a) and the blade root (21) (i. e.,
as the attaching angle α increases). Therefore, as is the case with the propeller
fan (10) of the example, the airflow is less likely to separate from the negative
pressure surface (26) of the blade (20).
- Advantages of the Embodiment -
[0095] According to the propeller fan (10) of this embodiment, effects similar to those
obtained by the propeller fan (10) of the example can be obtained.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0096] As described above, the present invention is usable as a propeller fan for use in
a blower or the like.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS
[0097]
10 Propeller Fan
15 Hub
20 Blade
21 Blade Root
22 Blade End
31 Chord line
32 Mean line
33 Reference Blade Cross Section (First Reference Blade Cross Section, Second Reference
Blade Cross Section)
33a Intermediate Blade Cross Section
33b Second Reference Blade Cross Section