Dehumidifier System Device and Method

Abstract

A dehumidifier system and device for maintaining a dry air environment in enclosures by extracting the water to outside the enclosure. The dehumidifier device comprises a condensation unit, typically a thermoelectric clement with a moisture collector, and a sealed pump, such as peristaltic pump, which pumps the condensed humidity out of the sealed enclosure, yet maintains the enclosure seal. The system is provided with a controller which alternately activates the thermoelectric element and the pump, in at least one mode: continuous, periodical, and programmable utilizing a humidity / relative humidity sensor. Optionally, in large-volume enclosures and containers, a fan assembly is connected to the controller so as to provide for rapid circulation of the air and removal of moisture.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to dehumidifier systems and devices, and more particularly to a dehumidifier system device and method for active water extraction from small enclosures and containers to a space external thereto.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Dehumidifier systems and devices are in widespread use today, especially in buildings, storage centers, and other sites where active central-air conditioning systems are installed. Gas-heated systems are also common in homes and offices and in places where the undesirable effect of the drying of the heated air results in loss of beneficial levels of humidity needed for good health. Most such devices and systems are large and thus not well-suited for dehumidification of small enclosures and containers.[0003]For these latter applications, a passive system is generally employed utilizing chemicals in powder or gel form, such as silica-gel or other hydrophobic materials which are introduced to ab...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]The dehumidifier device of the present invention comprises a condensation unit, typically a thermoelectric element with a moisture collector, and a sealed pump, such as peristaltic pump, which pumps the condensed humidity out of the sealed enclosure, yet maintains the enclosure sealing. The system is provided with a controller which alternately activates the thermoelectric element and the pump, either continuously, periodically, or in accordance with a humidity or relative humidity sensor. Optionally, in large-volume enclosures and containers, a fan assembly is connected to the controller so as to provide for more efficient circulation of the air since it is desirable to have a more rapid removal of moisture.

[0015]The device is particularly useful in keeping a dry environment in enclosures where humidity can damage such items as electronic devices and components, food, mechanical systems; or where humidity can fog a viewing window, such as in outdoor displays. While the commonly used existing solution of applying a silica-gel inside the enclosure is simple and of relatively low-cost, it cannot provide a solution for longer periods, since the silica-gel has limited capacity and needs to be dried before it can be re-used. The dehumidifier device described herein has an unlimited capacity, and thus can provide a dry environment solution for long periods, as well as overcome imperfect sealing.

[0016]The invention is also shown in an embodiment having a vaporizing heater unit provided on the exhaust side of the condenser unit for vaporizing any moisture exhausted from the system and preventing unwanted, and perhaps damaging water leaks resulting from the action of the dehumidifier.

Problems solved by technology

Gas-heated systems are also common in homes and offices and in places where the undesirable effect of the drying of the heated air results in loss of beneficial levels of humidity needed for good health.

Most such devices and systems are large and thus not well-suited for dehumidification of small enclosures and containers.

There are several problems with the above-mentioned devices and systems.

Another problem is that nitrogen filled containers which are pressurized require a high level of closure and this generally involves additional expense, such as providing. specially shaped gaskets, tight-fitting covers, and the like.

Furthermore, in some applications, such as optical systems, pressure is not always a positive factor.

Furthermore, pressurized systems require a modicum of maintenance, which adds to the cost of using such systems for protection against humidity and moisture.

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