Dehumidifying and sterilizing device

Abstract

To provide a dehumidifying / humidifying device with sterilization functions capable of releasing a hypochlorous acid while keeping comfortability throughout the year.SOLUTION: A dehumidifying / humidifying device 2 with sterilization functions includes: a refrigeration cycle 7 including a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c switching circulation of a refrigerant, an evaporator 7d; a first heat exchanger 7e performing one of heating and cooling, and a second heat exchanger 7f performing the other of heating and cooling; and a humidification / sterilization part 8 adding humidification / sterilization components to air circulating inside. The dehumidifying / humidifying device includes: a dehumidification mode where a refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is made a first circulation state by the four-way valve 7c, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator performing cooling and also the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser performing heating; and a humidification mode where the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is made a second circulation state different from the first circulation state by the four-way valve 7c, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as an evaporator and also the first heat exchanger 7e functions as the condenser.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a dehumidifying and humidifying device with a sterilization function that performs dehumidification and humidification while sterilizing a target space, such as an indoor space. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, an air conditioning system that supplies sterilized, clean air is known, which sterilizes the air supplied to a room by bringing it into contact with a gas-liquid contact area containing hypochlorous acid and then releasing it (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-133521 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] Conventional air conditioning systems release hypochlorous acid along with moisture using humidifiers or two-fluid nozzles. While this can humidify the area where hypochlorous acid is released, it can also increase humidity, especially during the summer when relative humidity is high, potentially compromising comfort.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a dehumidifying and humidifying device with a disinfecting function that can release hypochlorous acid while maintaining comfort throughout the year. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve this object, the dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function according to the present invention includes an intake port for taking in external air, a compressor, an expander, a four-way valve for switching the flow state of the refrigerant, an evaporator, a first heat exchanger for performing either heating or cooling, and a second heat exchanger for performing the other of heating or cooling, a refrigeration cycle configured to include these components, a humidifying and sterilizing unit for humidifying the air flowing inside and adding a sterilizing component, a first heat exchange air passage and a second heat exchange air passage independent of the first heat exchange air passage, and a heat exchange unit for performing heat exchange between the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage, a first air passage through which a first portion of the air taken in from the intake port flows in the order of the evaporator and the first heat exchange air passage, a second air passage through which a second portion of the air taken in from the intake port flows through the second heat exchange air passage, a third air passage through which a third portion of the air taken in from the intake port flows in the order of the first heat exchanger and the humidifying and sterilizing unit, and an outlet for blowing out the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the second air passage, and the third air passage to the outside. The four-way valve sets the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle to a first flow state, and the first heat exchanger functions as an evaporator for performing cooling while the second heat exchanger functions as a condenser for performing heating in a dehumidification mode. The four-way valve sets the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle to a second flow state different from the first flow state, and the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator while the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser in a humidification mode.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function that can release hypochlorous acid while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of installation of the dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in a living space. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in a dehumidification mode. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration in the humidifying mode of the dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] The dehumidifying and humidifying apparatus with a sterilization function according to the present invention includes a suction port for taking in external air, a compressor, an expander, a four-way valve for switching the flow state of the refrigerant, an evaporator, a first heat exchanger that performs either heating or cooling, and a second heat exchanger that performs the other of heating or cooling, and is configured to include a refrigeration cycle, a humidifying and sterilizing unit that humidifies and adds a sterilizing component to the air flowing inside, a first heat exchange air passage and a second heat exchange air passage independent of the first heat exchange air passage, and a heat exchange unit that exchanges heat between the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage. A first air passage through which a first portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows in the order of the evaporator and the first heat exchange air passage, a second air passage through which a second portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the second heat exchange air passage, a third air passage through which a third portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows in the order of the first heat exchanger and the humidifying and sterilizing unit, and a blowout port for blowing out the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the second air passage, and the third air passage to the outside. There are a dehumidifying mode in which the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is set to a first flow state by the four-way valve, the first heat exchanger functions as an evaporator that performs cooling, and the second heat exchanger functions as a condenser that performs heating, and a humidifying mode in which the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is set to a second flow state different from the first flow state by the four-way valve, the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, and the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser.

[0010] In this configuration, in dehumidification mode, the first portion of the outside air taken in from the intake flows through the first air passage. In this process, the first portion of the air passes through a cooled evaporator, becomes cold, and condenses, i.e., is dehumidified. The cold air then flows through the first heat exchange air passage and is then blown out to the outside from the outlet. The second portion of the outside air taken in from the intake flows through the second air passage. In this process, the second portion of the air flows through the second heat exchange air passage, and becomes cold through heat exchange with the cold air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage, and condenses, i.e., is dehumidified. The dehumidified second portion of the air is then blown out to the outside from the outlet. The third portion of the outside air taken in from the intake flows through the third air passage. In this process, the third portion of the air passes through a cooled first heat exchanger and becomes cold. The cold air then flows through the humidification and sterilization section, where it is humidified and sterilized, and then blown out to the outside from the outlet. As a result, while dehumidifying the air circulating inside the device, low-temperature air that does not easily evaporate moisture can be introduced into the humidification and sterilization section, thus suppressing the amount of humidification in the humidification and sterilization section.

[0011] On the other hand, in humidification mode, the first portion of the outside air taken in from the intake port flows through the first air passage. In this process, the first portion of the air passes through a cooled evaporator and becomes cold. The cold air then flows through the first heat exchange air passage and is then blown out to the outside from the outlet. The second portion of the outside air taken in from the intake port flows through the second air passage. In this process, the second portion of the air flows through the second heat exchange air passage and is then blown out to the outside from the outlet. The third portion of the air taken in from the intake port passes through a heated first heat exchanger and becomes hot. The hot air then flows through the humidification and sterilization section, where it is humidified and sterilized, and then blown out to the outside from the outlet. As a result, since hot air that easily vaporizes moisture can be introduced into the humidification and sterilization section, the amount of humidification in the humidification and sterilization section can be increased.

[0012] In other words, a dehumidifying and humidifying device with a sterilization function can switch between dehumidification and humidification modes. During periods of high humidity (for example, summer in Japan), it dehumidifies while releasing sterilizing components, and during periods of low humidity (for example, winter in Japan), it humidifies while releasing sterilizing components. To put it another way, a dehumidifying and humidifying device with a sterilization function is a device that can release sterilizing components while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

[0013] Furthermore, in the humidifying and dehumidifying device with sterilization function according to the present invention, the first air passage has a first portion that flows through the evaporator, the first heat exchange air passage, and the second heat exchanger in that order, while the second air passage has a second portion that flows through the second heat exchange air passage and the second heat exchanger in that order. As a result, in dehumidification mode, the air that has been cooled by flowing through the evaporator or the second heat exchange air passage and has become cold flows through the second heat exchanger, thus promoting heat dissipation from the second heat exchanger. Consequently, the evaporator becomes colder, and dehumidification in the evaporator can be promoted. In addition, the first heat exchanger becomes colder, and the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section becomes colder, so humidification by the humidifying and sterilizing section is further suppressed. In other words, the dehumidification effect in dehumidification mode can be enhanced.

[0014] Furthermore, the humidifying and desiccanting device with a sterilization function according to the present invention includes a mixing unit that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the air that has flowed through the second air passage, and the air that has flowed through the third air passage, and the air mixed in the mixing unit is blown out to the outside from the outlet. This reduces variations in temperature, humidity, and sterilization components of the air blown out to the outside from the outlet, thereby improving comfort.

[0015] Furthermore, in the dehumidifying and humidifying device with sterilization function according to the present invention, a fourth portion of the air taken in from the intake port is further provided with a bypass air passage that flows through the second heat exchanger, and the outlet blows out the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage to the outside. In this way, the amount of air flowing through the second heat exchanger increases, promoting heat dissipation in the second heat exchanger in dehumidification mode and promoting heat absorption in the second heat exchanger in humidification mode. As a result, in dehumidification mode, the evaporator becomes colder and dehumidification in the evaporator is promoted. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger becomes colder and the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section becomes colder, so humidification by the humidifying and sterilizing section is further suppressed. Also, in humidification mode, the first heat exchanger becomes hotter and the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section becomes hotter, so humidification by the humidifying and sterilizing section is further promoted. In other words, the dehumidification effect can be enhanced in dehumidification mode and the humidification effect can be enhanced in humidification mode.

[0016] Furthermore, the humidifying and desiccanting device with a sterilization function according to the present invention includes a mixing unit that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the air that has flowed through the second air passage, the air that has flowed through the third air passage, and the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage. The air mixed in the mixing unit is then blown out to the outside from the outlet. This reduces variations in temperature, humidity, and sterilization components of the air blown out to the outside from the outlet, thereby improving comfort.

[0017] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the figures described in the embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0018] (Embodiment 1) First, with reference to Figure 1, the outline of the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2 with a sterilizing function according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the installation of the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2 with a sterilizing function according to an embodiment of the present invention in a living space 1.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function is installed on the underside of the top surface 1a of the living space 1. The dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 takes in intake air 3 from the living space 1, dehumidifies or humidifies the intake air 3 while adding sterilizing components, and releases it back into the living space 1 as blown air 4 with added sterilizing components. In other words, the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 is a device that dehumidifies or humidifies the living space 1 and also sterilizes the living space 1 by supplying sterilizing components. Although not specifically shown in the figures, the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function is connected to an external power source, as well as to water supply and drainage facilities.

[0020] As will be explained in more detail later, the discharged air 4 is air that has been dehumidified or humidified and disinfected within the disinfecting and humidifying device 2. Furthermore, since the discharged air 4 contains disinfecting components, it can also be said to be air that disinfects the walls and other surfaces of the living space 1.

[0021] Next, with reference to Figure 2, the specific configuration of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function will be described. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function includes an intake port 5, an outlet port 6, a refrigeration cycle 7, a humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, a heat exchange unit 9, a first air passage 10, a second air passage 11, a third air passage 12, a bypass air passage 13, a mixing unit 14, a first blower 15, and a second blower 16. The refrigeration cycle 7 includes a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c, an evaporator 7d, a first heat exchanger 7e, a second heat exchanger 7f, and a refrigerant pipe 7g. The heat exchange unit 9 includes a first heat exchange air passage 9a and a second heat exchange air passage 9b.

[0023] The intake port 5 is an intake port for bringing in the intake air 3 from the living space 1 to the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, and is located on the top surface 1a of the living space 1.

[0024] The air outlet 6 is an outlet for supplying the air (intake air 3) taken into the humidifying and desiccanting device 2 as discharged air 4 to the living space 1, and is located on the top surface 1a of the living space 1.

[0025] The first air passage 10 is one of the air passages that connects the intake port 5 and the mixing unit 14 (outlet port 6). The first air passage 10 is an air passage through which a portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (the first airflow 3a, described later) flows in the following order: the evaporator 7d of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the heat exchange unit 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing unit 14, and is arranged to connect the intake port 5 and the mixing unit 14. In other words, the first air passage 10 has the evaporator 7d of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the heat exchange unit 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing unit 14 (outlet port 6) arranged in this order from upstream.

[0026] The second air passage 11 is one of the air passages that connects the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14 (outlet port 6). The second air passage 11 is an air passage through which a portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (the second airflow 3b, described later) flows in the following order: the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange section 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14. It is arranged to connect the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14. In other words, the second air passage 11 has the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange section 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 (outlet port 6) arranged in this order from upstream.

[0027] The third air passage 12 is one of the air passages that connects the intake port 5 and the mixing unit 14 (outlet port 6). The third air passage 12 is an air passage through which a portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (the third airflow 3c described later) flows in the order of the first heat exchanger 7e, the second blower 16, the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, and the mixing unit 14 of the refrigeration cycle 7, and is arranged to connect the intake port 5 and the mixing unit 14. In other words, the first heat exchanger 7e, the second blower 16, the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, and the mixing unit 14 (outlet port 6) of the refrigeration cycle 7 are arranged in this order in the third air passage 12.

[0028] The bypass air passage 13 is one of the air passages that connects the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14 (outlet port 6). The bypass air passage 13 is an air passage through which air flows in the order of intake port 5, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14, and is arranged to connect the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14. In other words, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 (outlet port 6) are arranged in this order within the bypass air passage 13.

[0029] The first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 can also be described as branch air passages leading from the intake port 5 to the outlet port 6.

[0030] The mixing section 14 is a space that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13, and circulates it to the outlet 6. The mixing section 14 is arranged to connect the mixing section 14 to the mixing section 14 of the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13, and the outlet 6.

[0031] The refrigeration cycle 7 is a component that forms a refrigerant flow path, with the compressor 7a, expander 7b, four-way valve 7c, evaporator 7d, first heat exchanger 7e, and second heat exchanger 7f connected by refrigerant pipes 7g. Copper pipes are commonly used as the refrigerant pipes 7g in the refrigeration cycle and are connected by welding. In addition, alternative fluorocarbons (HFC134a), for example, are used as refrigerants in the refrigeration cycle.

[0032] The compressor 7a is a device that compresses the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas (working medium gas) in the refrigeration cycle, increasing its pressure and raising its temperature. In this embodiment, the compressor 7a raises the temperature of the refrigerant gas to approximately 45°C. The compressor 7a is located outside the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, the bypass air passage 13, and the mixing section 14.

[0033] The expander 7b is a device that reduces the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant liquefied by the condenser to a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid. The expander 7b has a variable throttle opening and is used to adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage. The expander 7b itself is located outside the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, the bypass air passage 13, and the mixing section 14.

[0034] The four-way valve 7c is a valve for switching the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 between a first flow state and a second flow state. The first flow state is when the refrigerant circulates in the following order: compressor 7a, four-way valve 7c, second heat exchanger 7f, expander 7b, first heat exchanger 7e, four-way valve 7c, evaporator 7d, and compressor 7a. The second flow state is when the refrigerant circulates in the following order: compressor 7a, four-way valve 7c, first heat exchanger 7e, expander 7b, second heat exchanger 7f, four-way valve 7c, evaporator 7d, and compressor 7a. The four-way valve 7c is located outside the first air passage 10, second air passage 11, third air passage 12, bypass air passage 13, and mixing section 14.

[0035] The evaporator 7d is a cooling device and functions as an evaporator in the refrigeration cycle 7. The evaporator 7d is installed between the intake port 5 in the first air passage 10 and the heat exchange section 9 (first heat exchange air passage 9a).

[0036] The first heat exchanger 7e is a device that performs either cooling or heating. In the refrigeration cycle 7, it functions as an evaporator when cooling and as a condenser when heating. More specifically, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator and performs cooling when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the first flow state, and functions as a condenser and performs heating when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the second flow state. The first heat exchanger 7e is located between the intake port 5 and the second blower 16 in the third air passage 12.

[0037] The second heat exchanger 7f is a device that performs either cooling or heating, and in the refrigeration cycle 7, it functions as either a condenser or an evaporator. More specifically, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the first flow state, and functions as an evaporator when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the second flow state. The second heat exchanger 7f is positioned to span the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13. More specifically, in the first air passage 10, the second heat exchanger 7f is positioned between the heat exchange section 9 (first heat exchange air passage 9a) and the first blower 15, in the second air passage 11, it is positioned between the heat exchange section 9 (second heat exchange air passage 9b) and the first blower 15, and in the bypass air passage 13, it is positioned between the intake port 5 and the first blower 15.

[0038] The condenser (either the first heat exchanger 7e or the second heat exchanger 7f) releases heat to the outside (outside the refrigeration cycle) by exchanging heat between the refrigerant gas, which has been heated to a high temperature and pressure by the compressor 7a, and the air. In the condenser, the temperature of the refrigerant gas introduced (approximately 45°C) is higher than the temperature of the air, so when heat exchange occurs, the air is heated and the refrigerant gas is cooled. At this time, the refrigerant gas condenses and liquefies under high pressure.

[0039] The evaporator (evaporator 7d, and the other half of the first heat exchanger 7e and the second heat exchanger 7f) is a device in which the refrigerant that has flowed through the expander 7b absorbs heat from the air and evaporates, converting the liquid refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas. In the evaporator, since the temperature of the refrigerant introduced is lower than the temperature of the air, heat exchange occurs, cooling the air and raising the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0040] The refrigerant pipe 7g is a piping that connects the compressor 7a, expander 7b, four-way valve 7c, evaporator 7d, first heat exchanger 7e, and second heat exchanger 7f, respectively. For example, copper pipes are used for the refrigerant pipe 7g, and refrigerant (refrigerant gas) flows through the piping.

[0041] The humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 is a device that adds hypochlorous acid gas to the air circulating inside it (the third airflow 3c, described later). The humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 has a centrifugal crushing unit and a hypochlorous acid water tank. The humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 uses a motor to rotate the centrifugal crushing unit, drawing up the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid water tank by centrifugal force and scattering, impacting, and crushing it into the surroundings (centrifugally), vaporizing the hypochlorous acid along with the finely atomized water. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas is added to the air circulating through the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 along with the finely atomized water. The humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 is located between the second blower 16 and the mixing unit 14 in the third air passage 12. The hypochlorous acid gas added by the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 corresponds to the "sterilizing component" in the claim. The "sterilizing component" can also be called a "purification component".

[0042] The heat exchange unit 9 has a first heat exchange air passage 9a and a second heat exchange air passage 9b that is independent of the first heat exchange air passage 9a, and is a device that exchanges heat between the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. More specifically, the heat exchange unit 9 is a heat exchanger equipped with a sensible heat type heat exchange element. Inside the heat exchange unit 9, there is a first heat exchange air passage 9a through which air flows in a predetermined direction, and a second heat exchange air passage 9b through which air flows in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first heat exchange air passage 9a. In the first heat exchange air passage 9a, heat exchange takes place between the air flowing inside and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. Similarly, in the second heat exchange air passage 9b, heat exchange takes place between the air flowing inside and the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a. As shown in Figure 2, the heat exchange unit 9 is positioned where the first air passage 10 and the second air passage 11 intersect.

[0043] The first blower 15 is a fan that circulates air through the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13, and blows it out to the outside through the mixing unit 14 and the outlet 6. For example, a sirocco fan or an axial flow fan can be used as the blower fan. The first blower 15 is positioned between the second heat exchanger 7f and the mixing unit 14 so as to span the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13.

[0044] The second blower 16 is a fan that circulates air in the third air passage 12 and blows it out to the outside through the mixing unit 14 and the outlet 6. For example, a sirocco fan or an axial flow fan can be used as the blower fan. The second blower 16 is positioned between the first heat exchanger 7e and the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 in the third air passage 12.

[0045] Next, the airflow inside the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in dehumidification mode. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in humidification mode.

[0046] The dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2 takes in intake air 3 from the intake port 5 by operating the first blower 15 and the second blower 16. The intake air 3 taken in from the intake port 5 is divided into a first airflow 3a that flows into the first air passage 10, a second airflow 3b that flows into the second air passage 11, a third airflow 3c that flows into the third air passage 12, and a fourth airflow 3d that flows into the bypass air passage. Here, the first airflow 3a corresponds to the "first part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claim, the second airflow 3b corresponds to the "second part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claim, the third airflow 3c corresponds to the "third part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claim, and the fourth airflow 3d corresponds to the "fourth part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claim. In this embodiment, the temperature of the intake air 3 is 27°C, the relative humidity is 60%, and the airflow rate is 420 m³. 3 It is / h. Also, the airflow rate of the first airflow 3a at the point when it is drawn in from the intake port 5 is 120m 3 The value is / h, and the airflow rate of the second airflow 3b is 100m 3 The value is / h, and the airflow of the third airflow 3c is 120m 3 The value is / h, and the airflow of the fourth airflow 3d is 80m 3 It is / h.

[0047] The first airflow 3a is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the evaporator 7d, the first heat exchange air passage 9a, the second heat exchanger 7f, and the first blower 15 in that order, before flowing into the mixing section 14.

[0048] The second airflow 3b is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b, the second heat exchanger 7f, and the first blower 15 in that order, before flowing into the mixing section 14.

[0049] The third airflow 3c is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the first heat exchanger 7e, the second blower 16, and the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 in that order, before flowing into the mixing unit 14.

[0050] The fourth airflow 3d is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the second heat exchanger 7f and the first blower 15 in that order, and finally flows into the mixing section 14.

[0051] The first airflow 3a, second airflow 3b, third airflow 3c, and fourth airflow 3d that flow into the mixing section 14 are mixed and blown out to the outside as discharged air 4 from the outlet 6.

[0052] Next, the dehumidification mode and humidification mode of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function will be described in detail.

[0053] Referring to Figure 3, the operation of the refrigeration cycle in the dehumidification mode of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function, the state transitions of the air circulating inside, and the operation of the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 will be explained. The dehumidification mode is a mode in which hypochlorous acid gas is released while dehumidifying, and is used when it is desired to dehumidify and sterilize with hypochlorous acid gas at the same time, such as during the summer when humidity is high.

[0054] The dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2 cools the air by the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e by setting the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 to the first flow state. More specifically, the four-way valve 7c is switched so that the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the first flow state, the opening of the expander 7b is adjusted, and the compressor 7a is started. At this time, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 7a flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the second heat exchanger 7f. At this time, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser. After that, the refrigerant is depressurized after passing through the expander 7b and then flows through the first heat exchanger 7e. At this time, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator. After that, the refrigerant flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the evaporator 7d. After that, the refrigerant flows into the compressor 7a.

[0055] The first airflow 3a is the airflow that flows through the first air passage 10 by the first blower 15.

[0056] First airflow 3a (temperature 27°C, relative humidity 60%, airflow 120 m³) 3 The air ( / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the first air passage 10, and is cooled by flowing through the evaporator 7d. As a result, the temperature of the first airflow 3a falls below the dew point temperature, condensation occurs, and the moisture contained in the first airflow 3a is removed. In other words, dehumidification of the first airflow 3a is performed by flowing through the evaporator 7d. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that has flowed through the evaporator 7d becomes 10°C, and the relative humidity becomes 95%.

[0057] Subsequently, the first airflow 3a (temperature 10°C, relative humidity 95%, airflow 120 m³) 3 The air ( / h) is heated up by circulating through the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the heat exchange section 9 and exchanging heat with the second airflow 3b circulating through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that has circulated through the first heat exchange air passage 9a becomes 18°C, and the relative humidity becomes 60%.

[0058] Subsequently, the first airflow 3a (temperature 18℃, relative humidity 60%, airflow 120m³) 3 / h) flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as a condenser. As a result, a part of the amount of heat corresponding to the total of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator and the energy for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 in the compressor 7a is exhausted as waste heat from the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as a condenser to the first air flow 3a. Consequently, the temperature of the first air flow 3a rises. In the present embodiment, the temperature of the first air flow 3a that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 7f is 32° C., and the relative humidity is 35%.

[0059] Thereafter, the first air flow 3a (temperature 32° C., relative humidity 35%, air volume 120 m 3 / h) flows through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixing unit 14.

[0060] Also, the second air flow 3b is an air flow that flows through the second air passage 11 by the first blower 15.

[0061] The second air flow 3b (temperature 27° C., relative humidity 60%, air volume 100 m 3 / h) is taken into the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function from the suction port 5, then flows through the second air passage 11, and flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange unit 9. At this time, the second air flow 3b (temperature 27° C., relative humidity 60%, air volume 100 m 3 / h) is cooled by exchanging heat with the first air flow 3a (temperature 10° C., relative humidity 95%, air volume 120 m 3 / h) flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a. As a result, the temperature of the second air flow 3b becomes below the dew point temperature, condensation occurs, and dehumidification of the second air flow 3b is performed. That is, dehumidification of the second air flow 3b is performed by flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. At this time, the air volume (100 m 3 / h) flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b is smaller than the air volume (120 m 3 / h) flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a. In the present embodiment, the temperature of the second air flow 3b that has flowed through the second heat exchange air passage 9b is 18° C., and the relative humidity is 90%.

[0062] Thereafter, the second air flow 3b (temperature 18° C., relative humidity 90%, air volume 100 m 3The airflow ( / h) passes through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as a condenser. As a result, a portion of the heat equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e (which functions as an evaporator) and the energy used by the compressor 7a to circulate the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 is released from the second heat exchanger 7f (which functions as a condenser) into the second airflow 3b. Consequently, the temperature of the second airflow 3b rises. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second airflow 3b that has passed through the second heat exchanger 7f becomes 32°C, and the relative humidity becomes 35%.

[0063] Subsequently, the second airflow 3b (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, airflow 100 m³) 3 The air ( / h) flows through the first blower 15 and into the mixing section 14.

[0064] Furthermore, the third airflow 3c is the airflow that flows through the third air passage 12 by the second blower 16.

[0065] Third airflow 3c (temperature 27℃, relative humidity 60%, airflow 120m³) 3 The air ( / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the third air passage 12, and is cooled by flowing through the first heat exchanger 7e, which functions as an evaporator. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c that has flowed through the first heat exchanger 7e, which functions as an evaporator, becomes 19°C, and the relative humidity becomes 95%.

[0066] Subsequently, the third airflow 3c (temperature 19℃, relative humidity 95%, airflow 120m) 3 The airflow ( / h) passes through the second blower 16 and then through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas is added to the third airflow 3c. Humidification also occurs simultaneously. However, since the third airflow 3c introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is low temperature and high humidity air, humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is suppressed. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c that has passed through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 becomes 19°C, and the relative humidity becomes 99%.

[0067] Subsequently, the third airflow 3c (temperature 19℃, relative humidity 99%, airflow 120m) 3 The current ( / h) flows into the mixing section 14.

[0068] Furthermore, the fourth airflow 3d is the airflow that flows through the bypass air passage 13 by the first blower 15.

[0069] Fourth airflow 3d (temperature 27°C, relative humidity 60%, airflow 80 m³) 3 The air ( / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the bypass air passage 13, and through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as a condenser. As a result, a portion of the heat equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e (which functions as an evaporator) and the energy used by the compressor 7a to circulate the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 is released from the second heat exchanger 7f (which functions as a condenser) to the fourth airflow 3d. At this time, the total energy released from the second heat exchanger 7f to the first airflow 3a, the second airflow 3b, and the fourth airflow 3d is equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e (which functions as an evaporator) and the energy used by the compressor 7a to circulate the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7. As a result, the temperature of the fourth airflow 3d rises. In this embodiment, the temperature of the fourth airflow 3d after flowing through the second heat exchanger 7f becomes 32°C, and the relative humidity becomes 35%.

[0070] Subsequently, the fourth airflow 3d (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, airflow 80 m³) 3 The air ( / h) flows through the first blower 15 and into the mixing section 14.

[0071] The first airflow 3a (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, airflow 120 m³) flowed into the mixing section 14. 3 / h), Second airflow 3b (temperature 32℃, relative humidity 35%, airflow 100m³) 3 ( / h), third airflow 3c (temperature 19℃, relative humidity 99%, airflow 120m³) 3 ( / h), and four airflow 3d (temperature 32℃, relative humidity 35%, airflow 80m³). 3 The air ( / h) is mixed in the mixing unit 14, dehumidified, and treated with hypochlorous acid gas before being blown out from the outlet 6 as blown air 4. At this time, the blown air 4 has a temperature of 28°C, a relative humidity of 47%, and an airflow rate of 420 m³.3 This results in a dehumidification rate of 25L / day.

[0072] As described above, in the humidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function of this embodiment, by executing the dehumidification mode, the air circulating inside the device is dehumidified, while low-temperature, high-humidity air that does not easily vaporize moisture is introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8. Therefore, humidification when vaporizing and releasing hypochlorous acid gas can be suppressed. Consequently, dehumidification can be performed while adding hypochlorous acid gas, even in hot and humid summer conditions.

[0073] Next, referring to Figure 4, the operation of the refrigeration cycle in the humidification mode of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function, the state transitions of the air circulating inside, and the operation of the humidification and sterilization unit 8 will be explained. The humidification mode is a mode in which hypochlorous acid gas is released while humidifying, and is used when it is desired to humidify and sterilize with hypochlorous acid gas at the same time, such as in winter when humidity is low.

[0074] The dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2 heats the air in the first heat exchanger 7e by setting the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 to a second flow state. More specifically, the four-way valve 7c is switched so that the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in a second flow state, the opening of the expander 7b is adjusted, and the compressor 7a is started. At this time, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 7a flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the first heat exchanger 7e. At this time, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as a condenser. After that, the refrigerant is depressurized after passing through the expander 7b and then flows through the second heat exchanger 7f. At this time, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as an evaporator. After that, the refrigerant flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the evaporator 7d. After that, the refrigerant flows into the compressor 7a.

[0075] The first airflow 3a is the airflow that flows through the first air passage 10 by the first blower 15.

[0076] First airflow 3a (temperature 20℃, relative humidity 30%, airflow 120m³) 3The airflow ( / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the first air passage 10 and through the evaporator 7d. As a result, the first airflow 3a is cooled by heat absorption by the evaporator 7d. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a after flowing through the evaporator 7d becomes 15°C, and the relative humidity becomes 42%.

[0077] Subsequently, the first airflow 3a (temperature 15℃, relative humidity 42%, airflow 120m³) 3 The air ( / h) is heated up by circulating through the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the heat exchange section 9 and exchanging heat with the second airflow 3b circulating through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that has circulated through the first heat exchange air passage 9a becomes 18°C, and the relative humidity becomes 34%.

[0078] Subsequently, the first airflow 3a (temperature 18℃, relative humidity 34%, airflow 120m³) 3 The airflow ( / h) passes through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as an evaporator. As a result, the first airflow 3a is cooled by heat absorption by the second heat exchanger 7f. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that has passed through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as an evaporator, becomes 13°C, and the relative humidity becomes 47%.

[0079] Subsequently, the first airflow 3a (temperature 13℃, relative humidity 47%, airflow 120m³) 3 The air ( / h) flows through the first blower 15 and into the mixing section 14.

[0080] Furthermore, the second airflow 3b is the airflow that flows through the second air passage 11 by the first blower 15.

[0081] Second airflow 3b (temperature 20℃, relative humidity 30%, airflow 100m³) 3 The airflow (100 m³ / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the second air passage 11, and then through the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange section 9. At this time, the second airflow 3b (temperature 20°C, relative humidity 30%, airflow 100 m³ / h) 3 The first airflow 3a (temperature 15°C, relative humidity 42%, airflow 120 m³ / h) flows through the first heat exchange air passage 9a. 3Cooling occurs through heat exchange with ( / h). In this embodiment, the temperature of the second airflow 3b that flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b becomes 17°C, and the relative humidity becomes 37%.

[0082] Subsequently, the second airflow 3b (temperature 17°C, relative humidity 37%, airflow 100 m³) 3 The airflow ( / h) passes through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as an evaporator. As a result, the second airflow 3b is cooled by heat absorption by the second heat exchanger 7f. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second airflow 3b that has passed through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as an evaporator, becomes 12°C, and the relative humidity becomes 49%.

[0083] Subsequently, the second airflow 3b (temperature 12°C, relative humidity 49%, airflow 100 m³) 3 The air ( / h) flows through the first blower 15 and into the mixing section 14.

[0084] Furthermore, the third airflow 3c is the airflow that flows through the third air passage 12 by the second blower 16.

[0085] Third airflow 3c (temperature 20℃, relative humidity 30%, airflow 120m³) 3 The refrigerant ( / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the third air passage 12, and is heated as it flows through the first heat exchanger 7e, which functions as a condenser. At this time, the amount of heat equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as an evaporator, and the energy used by the compressor 7a to circulate the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7, is discharged from the first heat exchanger 7e, which functions as a condenser, to the third airflow 3c. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c that has flowed through the first heat exchanger 7e, which functions as a condenser, becomes 45°C, and the relative humidity becomes 7%.

[0086] Subsequently, the third airflow 3c (temperature 45°C, relative humidity 7%, airflow 120m³) 3The airflow ( / h) passes through the second blower 16 and then through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas is added to the third airflow 3c. Humidification also occurs simultaneously. At this time, the third airflow 3c introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is high temperature and low humidity air, thus promoting humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c that has passed through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 becomes 22°C, and the relative humidity becomes 80%.

[0087] Subsequently, the third airflow 3c (temperature 22℃, relative humidity 80%, airflow 120m) 3 The current ( / h) flows into the mixing section 14.

[0088] Furthermore, the fourth airflow 3d is the airflow that flows through the bypass air passage 13 by the first blower 15.

[0089] Fourth airflow 3d (temperature 20°C, relative humidity 30%, airflow 80 m³) 3 The airflow ( / h) is taken in from the intake port 5 into the dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2, then flows through the bypass air passage 13, and through the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as an evaporator. As a result, the fourth airflow 3d is cooled by heat absorption by the second heat exchanger 7f. In this embodiment, the temperature of the fourth airflow 3d after flowing through the second heat exchanger 7f becomes 13°C, and the relative humidity becomes 47%.

[0090] Subsequently, the fourth airflow 3d (temperature 13°C, relative humidity 47%, airflow 80 m³) 3 The air ( / h) flows through the first blower 15 and into the mixing section 14.

[0091] The first airflow 3a (temperature 13°C, relative humidity 47%, airflow 120 m³) flowed into the mixing section 14. 3 / h), Second airflow 3b (temperature 12℃, relative humidity 49%, airflow 100m³) 3 ( / h), third airflow 3c (temperature 22℃, relative humidity 80%, airflow 100m³) 3 ( / h), and fourth airflow 3d (temperature 13℃, relative humidity 47%, airflow 80m³) 3The air ( / h) is mixed in the mixing unit 14, humidified, and treated with hypochlorous acid gas before being blown out from the outlet 6 as blown air 4. At this time, the blown air 4 has a temperature of 16°C, a relative humidity of 64%, and an airflow rate of 420 m³. 3 This results in a humidification rate of 31L / day.

[0092] As described above, in the humidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function of this embodiment, by executing the humidification mode, the air circulating inside the device is heated, and high-temperature, low-humidity air that easily vaporizes moisture can be introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8. Therefore, when humidifying while adding hypochlorous acid gas in the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, the amount of humidification can be increased compared to simply introducing air from the living space 1. Consequently, humidification can be performed while adding hypochlorous acid gas, such as in winter when temperatures are low and humidity is low.

[0093] As described above, the humidifying and de-sterilizing device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment 1 can be enjoyed as follows.

[0094] (1) The dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function comprises a refrigeration cycle 7 which includes an intake port 5 for taking in outside air, a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c for switching the flow state of the refrigerant, an evaporator 7d, a first heat exchanger 7e which performs either heating or cooling, and a second heat exchanger 7f which performs the other of heating or cooling; a humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 which adds humidifying and sterilizing components to the air flowing through the inside; and a first heat exchange air passage 9a and a second heat exchange air passage 9b which is independent of the first heat exchange air passage 9a. The system includes a heat exchange section 9 that exchanges heat with the incoming air, a first air passage 10 through which the first portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (first airflow 3a) flows in the order of evaporator 7d and first heat exchange air passage 9a, a second air passage 11 through which the second portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (second airflow 3b) flows in the second heat exchange air passage 9b, a third air passage 12 through which the third portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (third airflow 3c) flows in the order of first heat exchanger 7e and humidification / sterilization section 8, and an outlet 6 that blows out the air that has flowed through the first air passage 10, second air passage 11, and third air passage 12 to the outside. The system has two modes: a dehumidification mode in which the four-way valve 7c sets the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 to a first flow state, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as a cooling evaporator, and the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a heating condenser; and a humidification mode in which the four-way valve 7c sets the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 to a second flow state different from the first flow state, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as an evaporator, and the first heat exchanger 7e functions as a condenser.

[0095] In this configuration, in dehumidification mode, the first portion of the outside air taken in from the intake port 5 (first airflow 3a) flows through the first air passage 10. In this process, the first portion of the air (first airflow 3a) passes through the cooled evaporator 7d, becomes cold, and condenses, i.e., is dehumidified. The cold air then flows through the first heat exchange air passage 9a and is subsequently blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. The second portion of the outside air taken in from the intake port 5 (second airflow 3b) flows through the second air passage 11. In this process, the second portion of the air (second airflow 3b) flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b, and by exchanging heat with the cold air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a, it becomes cold and condenses, i.e., is dehumidified. The dehumidified second portion of the air (second airflow 3b) is then blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. Furthermore, a third portion of the external air taken in from the intake port 5 (third airflow 3c) flows through the third air passage 12. In this process, the third portion of the air (third airflow 3c) passes through the cooled first heat exchanger 7e and becomes cold. The cold air then flows through the humidification and sterilization unit 8, where it is humidified and sterilized, and then blown out to the outside from the outlet port 6. As a result, while dehumidifying the air flowing inside the device, cold air that does not easily vaporize moisture can be introduced into the humidification and sterilization unit 8, thus suppressing the amount of humidification in the humidification and sterilization unit 8.

[0096] In humidification mode, the first portion of the outside air taken in from the intake port 5 (first airflow 3a) flows through the first air passage 10. During this process, the first portion of the air (first airflow 3a) passes through the cooled evaporator 7d and becomes cold. The cold air then flows through the first heat exchange air passage 9a and is then blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. The second portion of the outside air taken in from the intake port 5 (second airflow 3b) flows through the second air passage 11. During this process, the second portion of the air (second airflow 3b) flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b and is then blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. The third portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (third airflow 3c) passes through the heated first heat exchanger 7e and becomes hot. The hot air then flows through the humidification and sterilization unit 8, where it is humidified and sterilized, and then blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. As a result, high-temperature air that easily evaporates moisture can be introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, which allows for an increase in the amount of humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8.

[0097] In other words, the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with antibacterial function can switch between dehumidification mode and humidification mode, allowing it to dehumidify while releasing antibacterial components during periods of high humidity (for example, summer in Japan) and humidify while releasing antibacterial components during periods of low humidity (for example, winter in Japan). To put it another way, the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with antibacterial function is a device that can release antibacterial components while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

[0098] (2) In the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function, the first airflow 3a flows through the first air passage 10 in the order of evaporator 7d, first heat exchange air passage 9a, and second heat exchanger 7f, and the second airflow 3b flows through the second air passage 11 in the order of second heat exchange air passage 9b and second heat exchanger 7f. As a result, in dehumidification mode, the air that has been cooled by flowing through the evaporator 7d or the second heat exchange air passage 9b flows through the second heat exchanger 7f, thereby promoting heat dissipation from the second heat exchanger 7f. Consequently, the evaporator 7d becomes colder, and dehumidification in the evaporator 7d can be promoted. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 7e becomes colder, and the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 becomes colder, so humidification by the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 is further suppressed. In other words, the dehumidification effect in dehumidification mode can be enhanced.

[0099] (3) The dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function is equipped with a mixing unit 14 that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage 10 (first airflow 3a), the air that has flowed through the second air passage 11 (second airflow 3b), and the air that has flowed through the third air passage 12 (third airflow 3c), and the air mixed in the mixing unit 14 is blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. This reduces variations in temperature, humidity, and sterilization components of the air blown out to the outside from the outlet 6, thereby improving comfort.

[0100] (4) In the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function, the fourth portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (fourth airflow 3d) is provided with a bypass air passage 13 that flows through the second heat exchanger 7f, and the outlet port 6 blows out the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage 13 to the outside. In this way, the amount of air flowing through the second heat exchanger 7f increases, promoting heat dissipation from the second heat exchanger 7f in dehumidification mode and promoting heat absorption from the second heat exchanger 7f in humidification mode. As a result, in dehumidification mode, the evaporator 7d becomes colder, and dehumidification in the evaporator 7d is promoted. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 7e becomes colder, and the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 becomes colder, so humidification by the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 is further suppressed. Also, in humidification mode, the first heat exchanger 7e becomes hotter, and the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 becomes hotter, so humidification by the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 is further promoted. In other words, the dehumidification mode enhances the dehumidification effect, and the humidification mode enhances the humidification effect.

[0101] (5) The dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function is equipped with a mixing unit 14 that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage 10 (first airflow 3a), the air that has flowed through the second air passage 11 (second airflow 3b), the air that has flowed through the third air passage 12 (third airflow 3c), and the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage 13 (fourth airflow 3d). The air mixed in the mixing unit 14 is blown out to the outside from the outlet 6. This reduces variations in temperature, humidity, and sterilization components of the air blown out to the outside from the outlet 6, thereby improving comfort.

[0102] Although the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, it can be easily inferred that the present invention is not limited in any way to the above embodiments, and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0103] The dehumidifying and sterilizing device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment is installed on the underside of the top surface 1a of the living space 1, but is not limited to this. For example, the same effect can be enjoyed even if the device is configured to be placed on the floor of the living space 1.

[0104] Furthermore, in the humidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a disinfecting function according to this embodiment, hypochlorous acid gas is added as a disinfecting component to the third airflow 3c circulating through the humidifying and disinfecting unit 8, but this is not limited to this. For example, a disinfecting solution containing disinfecting components such as chloric acid water, ozone water, or hydrogen peroxide water may be vaporized in the humidifying and disinfecting unit 8 to add disinfecting components such as chlorine gas, ozone gas, or hydrogen peroxide gas to the third airflow 3c. Even in this way, disinfection of the living space 1 can be performed. In other words, it is possible to create a device that can release disinfecting components while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

[0105] Furthermore, in the humidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment, intake air 3 is taken in from the living space 1 and discharged air 4 is blown into the living space 1, but this is not limited to this. For example, air supplied to the living space 1 by a ventilation device separately installed in the living space 1 may be taken into the device as intake air 3, treated with humidity control and sterilization components, and then blown into the living space 1 as discharged air 4. More specifically, the ventilation device and the intake port 5 are connected by a duct, and the air supplied to the living space 1 by the ventilation device is transported to the intake port 5 through the duct and taken into the device as intake air 3. In this way, humidity control and sterilization of the living space 1 can also be performed.

[0106] Furthermore, while the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment is equipped with one intake port 5 and one outlet port 6, it is not limited to this. For example, an intake port for taking in air and an outlet port corresponding to each intake port may be provided for the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13. In other words, without providing a mixing unit 14, outlet ports corresponding to the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 may be provided, and the first airflow 3a, the second airflow 3b, the third airflow 3c, and the fourth airflow 3d that have flowed through the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 may be individually blown out to the outside. By doing so, the constraints on the configuration and handling of the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with sterilization function are reduced, and effects such as miniaturization of the device or reduction of pressure loss can be enjoyed.

[0107] Furthermore, in the humidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment, a centrifugal crushing unit is used as the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, but the device is not limited to this. For example, a vaporization filter configured to contain hypochlorous acid water may be used. In this way, the air circulating inside can be humidified and hypochlorous acid gas can be added, thereby controlling the humidity and sterilizing the living space 1.

[0108] Furthermore, while the humidifying and de-septic device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment is equipped with two blowers, a first blower 15 and a second blower 16, it is not limited to this. For example, one blower may be placed close to the intake port 5. Alternatively, blowers may be provided inside each of the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13. In this way, air can be circulated through each air passage, and the same effects can be enjoyed.

[0109] Furthermore, in the humidifying and desiccanting device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 7f is placed in the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13, but this is not the only option. For example, the second heat exchanger 7f may be placed outside the air passage (outside the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13) and the air may be circulated by another blower. In that case, the bypass air passage 13 becomes unnecessary. Alternatively, the second heat exchanger 7f may be placed only in the bypass air passage 13. Alternatively, the bypass air passage 13 may not be provided, and the second heat exchanger 7f may be placed in either the first air passage 10 or the second air passage 11, or both. Alternatively, the second heat exchanger 7f may be placed in either the first air passage 10 or the second air passage 11 and in the bypass air passage 13. In these cases, although the temperature and humidity of the discharged air 4 will change, similar effects can be enjoyed.

[0110] Furthermore, in the humidifying and desiccanting device 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment, the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13 are separated from the intake port 5 to the mixing section 14 so that there is no air exchange between the air passages, but this is not limited to this configuration. For example, a wall or the like may not be provided to separate the downstream side of the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the first air passage 10, the downstream side of the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13, and the configuration may be such that the air flowing downstream of the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the first air passage 10, the air flowing downstream of the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the second air passage 11, and the air flowing through the bypass air passage 13 can be mixed before flowing into the mixing section 14. The same effect can be enjoyed even in this configuration. [Industrial applicability]

[0111] The dehumidifying and humidifying device with a sterilization function according to this embodiment achieves both improved comfort in the space throughout the year by switching between dehumidification and humidification, and a reduction in the risk of infectious diseases through sterilization. It is useful as a device that sterilizes indoor spaces while dehumidifying or humidifying them. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0112] 1 Living space 1a Top surface 2. Dehumidifying and humidifying device with sterilization function 3. Intake air 3a First airflow 3b Second airflow 3c Third airflow 3D Fourth Airflow 4. Outlet air 5. Inlet 6 Air outlet 7 Refrigeration cycle 7a Compressor 7b Expander 7c Four-way valve 7d Evaporator 7e First heat exchanger 7f Second heat exchanger 7g refrigerant pipe 8. Humidifying and sterilizing section 9 Heat exchange section 9a First heat exchange air passage 9b Second heat exchange air passage 10 First Wind Route 11 Second wind path 12 Third Wind Route 13 Bypass airflow 14 Mixing section 15 First blower 16 Second blower

Claims

1. An intake port for taking in outside air, A refrigeration cycle comprising a compressor, an expander, a four-way valve for switching the flow state of the refrigerant, an evaporator, a first heat exchanger for heating or cooling, and a second heat exchanger for heating or cooling, A humidifying and sterilizing unit that adds humidifying and sterilizing components to the air circulating inside, A heat exchange section having a first heat exchange air passage and a second heat exchange air passage independent of the first heat exchange air passage, and which exchanges heat between the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage, The first portion of the air taken in from the intake port flows through the first air passage in the order of the evaporator and the first heat exchange air passage, The second portion of the air taken in from the intake port flows through the second heat exchange air passage, The third portion of the air taken in from the intake port flows through a third air passage in the order of the first heat exchanger and the humidifying and sterilizing section, An outlet for blowing out the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the second air passage, and the third air passage, Equipped with, A dehumidifying and humidifying device with a sterilization function, comprising: a dehumidification mode in which the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is set to a first flow state by the four-way valve, the first heat exchanger functions as a cooling evaporator and the second heat exchanger functions as a heating condenser; and a humidification mode in which the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is set to a second flow state different from the first flow state by the four-way valve, the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser.

2. In the first air passage, the first portion flows in the order of the evaporator, the first heat exchange air passage, and the second heat exchanger. The humidifying and de-icing device with a sterilization function according to claim 1, wherein the second portion flows through the second air passage in the order of the second heat exchange air passage and the second heat exchanger.

3. The system includes a mixing unit that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the air that has flowed through the second air passage, and the air that has flowed through the third air passage. The dehumidifying and desiccanting device with a sterilization function according to claim 2, wherein the air mixed in the mixing section is blown out to the outside from the outlet.

4. The fourth portion of the air taken in from the intake port further comprises a bypass air passage that flows through the second heat exchanger. The air outlet blows out the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage to the outside, as described in claim 2, a dehumidifying and sterilizing device.

5. The system includes a mixing unit that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the air that has flowed through the second air passage, the air that has flowed through the third air passage, and the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage. The dehumidifying and desiccanting device with a sterilization function according to claim 4, wherein the air mixed in the mixing section is blown out to the outside from the outlet.

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