Humidity Control Device

Abstract

The present invention provides a humidity control device. The air conditioner (100) comprises a first container, a humidifying unit, a dehumidifying unit (30), a second container, a detecting unit (91) and a control unit (20). The humidifying unit performs humidification. The first container contains first water. The dehumidifying unit (30) performs dehumidification. The second container contains second water generated by the dehumidifying unit (30). The detecting unit (91) detects a physical quantity related to the first water. The control unit (20) determines whether to prohibit the dehumidification operation based on the physical quantity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a humidity regulating device. Background Art

[0002] Dehumidification devices having dehumidification and humidification functions have been developed. For example, the dehumidification device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a frame, a dehumidification unit, a humidification unit, a dehumidification box, and a humidification box. The dehumidification unit cools the air passing through the inside of the frame by using a heat exchanger to condense the moisture contained in the air, thereby removing the moisture contained in the air and dehumidifying the air. The water generated by the dehumidification unit is sent to the dehumidification box. The humidification unit humidifies the air passing through the inside of the frame by using a humidification filter. The humidification filter is disposed in a humidification tray, and water is supplied from the humidification tray. Water is supplied from the humidification box to the humidification tray. In the dehumidification device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the humidification box and the dehumidification box are independently disposed in the frame.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-53582 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, in a humidity control device such as the dehumidification device described in Patent Document 1, if both the humidification tank and the dehumidification tank are not provided, the control unit prohibits all operations. Therefore, even when dehumidification is possible, the operation of dehumidification is inappropriately prohibited.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a humidity control device capable of appropriately suppressing prohibition of dehumidification operation.

[0009] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a humidity control device includes a first container, a humidifying unit, a dehumidifying unit, a second container, a detecting unit, and a control unit. The humidifying unit performs humidification. The first container contains first water. The dehumidifying unit performs dehumidification. The second container contains second water generated by the dehumidifying unit. The detecting unit detects a physical quantity related to the first water. The control unit determines whether to prohibit the dehumidification operation based on the physical quantity.

[0011] Beneficial Effects

[0012] According to the humidity control device of the present invention, it is possible to appropriately suppress prohibition of the dehumidification operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing an air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram which shows the inside of the air conditioner which concerns on 1st Embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram which shows the inside of the air conditioner which concerns on 1st Embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing the air conditioner according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing a dehumidification box and a humidification box according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the dehumidification box involved in the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 It is a perspective view showing the humidification box according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram which shows the inside of the air conditioner which concerns on 1st Embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 9 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Fig.10 Yes means Figure 5 A cross-sectional view showing the humidification tank being fixed inside the dehumidification tank.

[0023] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI is shown.

[0024] Fig.12 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII is shown.

[0025] Fig.13 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the humidification tank shown being inserted into the interior of the dehumidification tank.

[0026] Fig.14 It is a schematic diagram which shows the inside of the air conditioner which concerns on 1st Embodiment.

[0027] Fig.15 It is a perspective view showing a humidification box and a dehumidification box according to the second embodiment.

[0028] Fig.16 It is a cross-sectional view showing a humidifying unit, a humidifying box, and a dehumidifying box according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding parts, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0030] <First Embodiment>

[0031] Reference Figure 1 to Figure 3 , an air conditioner 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the air conditioner 100 . Figure 2 and Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the interior of the air conditioner 100. Specifically, Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram which shows the inside of the air conditioner 100 in the dehumidification mode. Figure 3 1 is a schematic diagram showing the interior of the air conditioner 100 in the humidification mode. In the first embodiment, the figure shows mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. The Z-axis is parallel to the vertical direction, and the X-axis and the Y-axis are parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0032] like Figure 1 to Figure 3 As shown, the air conditioner 100 includes a housing 10, a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, a dehumidifier 30, a humidifier 40, a dehumidifier box 60, a humidifier box 70, and an air supply unit 80. The air conditioner 100 is an example of a humidity control device. The humidifier box 70 is an example of a first container. The dehumidifier box 60 is an example of a second container.

[0033] The air conditioner 100 is, for example, a stationary air conditioner. In the first embodiment, the air conditioner 100 has a "dehumidification mode" and a "humidification mode." The "dehumidification mode" is a mode for dehumidifying the air. The "humidification mode" is a mode for humidifying the air.

[0034] The storage unit 21 includes a main storage device (e.g., semiconductor memory) such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and may also include an auxiliary storage device (e.g., hard disk drive). The main storage device and / or the auxiliary storage device store various control programs executed by the control unit 20.

[0035] The control unit 20 is a hardware circuit including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and specifically, the control unit 20 controls the dehumidifier 30, the humidifier 40, and the storage unit 21 by executing a control program stored in the storage unit 21.

[0036] The frame 10 has a top plate 11, a bottom plate 12, a pair of side plates 13, a front panel 14, and a rear panel 15. The front panel 14, the rear panel 15, and the side plates 13 are respectively arranged between the top plate 11 and the bottom plate 12. The pair of side plates 13 are arranged opposite to each other. One of the pair of side plates 13 is provided with an insertion port 10b for inserting the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 into the interior 10a of the frame 10.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the rear panel 15 is disposed opposite to the front panel 14. The rear panel 15 is disposed on the negative side of the X-axis of the housing 10. The rear panel 15 has a plurality of suction ports 15a. Each of the plurality of suction ports 15a is an opening.

[0038] The top plate 11 is arranged opposite to the bottom plate 12. And, the top plate 11 is arranged on the upper side of the frame 10. Specifically, the top plate 11 has a blow-out port 11a, a cover member 11b, and an operation panel 11c. The blow-out port 11a is an opening. The cover member 11b is a roughly plate-shaped member. The cover member 11b covers the blow-out port 11a. The cover member 11b functions as a wind deflector that regulates the flow direction of the air discharged from the blow-out port 11a. The operation panel 11c receives instructions from the outside. Specifically, the operation panel 11c receives information indicating any one of the dehumidification mode and the humidification mode.

[0039] The housing 10 further includes a plurality of circulation parts 50 through which air circulates. Specifically, the plurality of circulation parts 50 include a first chamber 51 , a second chamber 52 , a third chamber 53 , a fourth chamber 54 , and a fifth chamber 55 .

[0040] The first chamber 51 is disposed on the negative side of the X axis of the housing 10. The first chamber 51 communicates with the outside of the housing 10 via the plurality of suction ports 15a. The first chamber 51 includes a filter 51a. The filter 51a is, for example, a deodorizing filter and / or a dust collecting filter.

[0041] The second chamber 52 is disposed on the positive direction side of the X-axis of the first chamber 51. The first chamber 51 is connected to the second chamber 52. The dehumidifier 30 is disposed inside the second chamber 52. The dehumidifier 30 performs dehumidification. Specifically, the dehumidifier 30 is controlled by the control unit 20. Specifically, as Figure 2 As shown, the dehumidification unit 30 is driven by the control unit 20 in the dehumidification mode. Figure 3 As shown, it is not driven by the control unit 20 in the humidification mode.

[0042] The third chamber 53 is disposed on the negative side of the Z axis of the frame 10. The first chamber 51 is connected to the third chamber 53. The humidification unit 40, the dehumidification box 60, and the humidification box 70 are disposed inside the third chamber 53. Specifically, the third chamber 53 has a storage space for accommodating the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70. The humidification box 70 accommodates the first water. The humidification unit 40 humidifies the first water in the humidification box 70. Specifically, Figure 3 As shown, the humidification tank 70 is pre-filled with first water by the user in the humidification mode. Figure 2 As shown, the humidification tank 70 is previously set to be empty by the user in the dehumidification mode. The dehumidification tank 60 contains the second water generated by the dehumidification unit 30.

[0043] The fourth chamber 54 is disposed on the positive direction side of the X axis of the housing 10. The fourth chamber 54 communicates with the third chamber 53. In the fourth chamber 54, an air supply unit 80 is disposed.

[0044] The fifth chamber 55 is arranged on the positive Z-axis side of the housing 10. The fourth chamber 54 communicates with the fifth chamber 55. The second chamber 52 communicates with the fifth chamber 55. The fifth chamber 55 communicates with the outside of the housing 10 via the outlet 11a.

[0045] Next, the flow of air will be described in detail. The air supply unit 80 includes, for example, a fan and a motor. The motor rotates the fan. The fan generates a first airflow F1 and a second airflow F2. The first airflow F1 passes through the first chamber 51, the second chamber 52, and the fifth chamber 55 in sequence. The second airflow F2 passes through the first chamber 51, the third chamber 53, the fourth chamber 54, and the fifth chamber 55 in sequence.

[0046] Next, the first airflow F1 and the second airflow F2 in the dehumidification mode will be described in detail. Figure 2 As shown, first, the user empties the humidification tank 70. Next, the user drives the dehumidification unit 30 through the control unit 20 using the operation panel 11c. As a result, the first airflow F1 is dehumidified by the dehumidification unit 30 when passing through the second chamber 52. In addition, the dehumidification tank 60 contains the second water generated by the dehumidification unit 30. In addition, the second airflow F2 is not humidified by the humidification unit 40 when passing through the third chamber 53. Thus, the dehumidified air is discharged from the air conditioner 100.

[0047] Next, the first airflow F1 and the second airflow F2 in the humidification mode are described in detail. Figure 3 As shown, first, the user puts a predetermined amount of first water into the humidification tank 70. In addition, the user does not drive the dehumidification unit 30 through the control unit 20. As a result, the first airflow F1 is not dehumidified by the dehumidification unit 30 when passing through the second chamber 52. In addition, the second airflow F2 is humidified by the humidification unit 40 when passing through the third chamber 53. Thus, the humidified air is discharged from the air conditioner 100.

[0048] Here, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 of the air conditioner 100 are described. Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing the air conditioner 100 . Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70.

[0049] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in the air conditioner 100, the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 are in an integrated state and can be loaded and unloaded relative to the frame 10. Specifically, the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 can be pulled out in the first direction D1 relative to the third chamber 53 of the frame 10 in an integrated state. The first direction D1 indicates the direction in which the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 are removed from the frame 10. In addition, the second direction D2 indicates vertically upward. In this embodiment, the first direction D1 extends along the Y-axis direction. The second direction D2 extends along the Z-axis direction.

[0050] Next, refer to Figure 5 to Figure 7 , the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 of the air conditioner 100 are described. Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the dehumidification box 60. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the humidification box 70. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 can be separated in a state removed from the frame 10. That is, in a state removed from the frame 10, the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 can be attached to or detached from each other.

[0051] like Figure 6 As shown, the dehumidification box 60 has a substantially rectangular box shape. The upper surface of the dehumidification box 60 is open. Specifically, the dehumidification box 60 has a second bottom surface 61 and a second wall portion 62. The second wall portion 62 has a first wall 63, a second wall 64, a third wall 65, a fourth wall 66, and a fifth wall 67. In addition, the colors of the second wall 64, the third wall 65, the fourth wall 66, and the fifth wall 67 are, for example, transparent.

[0052] The shapes of the first wall 63, the second wall 64, the third wall 65 and the fifth wall 67 are roughly planar shapes. The fourth wall 66 has a curved surface that bends inward. The first wall 63 and the third wall 65 are arranged opposite to each other. The first wall 63 has a handle 63a, a first window 63c and a second window 63b. The colors of the first window 63c and the second window 63b are, for example, transparent. The first window 63c is arranged on the second direction D2 side of the second window 63b. The shape of the first window 63c and the shape of the second window 63b may be different. In addition, the second wall 64 is arranged opposite to the fourth wall 66 and the fifth wall 67. The first wall 63 and the third wall 65 are respectively located near the front side and the inner side of the first direction D1.

[0053] like Figure 7 As shown, the humidification box 70 has a substantially rectangular box shape. The upper surface of the humidification box 70 is open. Specifically, the humidification box 70 has a first bottom surface 71, a first wall portion 72, and a grip portion 78. The first wall portion 72 has a first wall 73, a second wall 74, a third wall 75, a fourth wall 76, and a fifth wall 77. In addition, the color of the first wall portion 72 is, for example, transparent.

[0054] The shapes of the first wall 73, the second wall 74, the third wall 75, and the fifth wall 77 are substantially planar shapes. The fourth wall 76 has a curved surface that curves inward. The first wall 73 is disposed opposite to the third wall 75. In addition, the second wall 74 is disposed opposite to the fourth wall 76 and the fifth wall 77. The first wall 73 and the third wall 75 are located on the near front side and the back side in the first direction D1, respectively.

[0055] The grip portion 78 is in a rectangular parallelepiped shape and extends in the first direction D1 . One end of the grip portion 78 is connected to the upper end of the first wall 73 , and the other end of the grip portion 78 is connected to the upper end of the third wall 75 .

[0056] In more detail, Figure 5 As shown, the humidifying box 70 is arranged inside the dehumidifying box 60. Specifically, the shape of the humidifying box 70 is smaller than the shape of the dehumidifying box 60. The height of the first wall portion 72 of the humidifying box 70 is lower than the height of the second wall portion 62 of the dehumidifying box 60. More specifically, at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the wall portion of the humidifying box 70 is along at least a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the wall portion of the dehumidifying box 60. Specifically, the shape of the fourth wall 66 of the dehumidifying box 60 is similar to the shape of the fourth wall 76 of the humidifying box 70.

[0057] Here, in the present embodiment, even if the humidification tank 70 is not attached to the frame 10, dehumidification can be performed. Figure 8 , the air conditioner 100 in the dehumidification mode will be described. Figure 8 Schematic diagram showing the interior of the air conditioner 100 in the dehumidification mode. Figure 8 As shown, the dehumidification box 60 is arranged inside the third chamber 53. In addition, the humidification box 70 and the humidification unit 40 are not arranged inside the third chamber 53.

[0058] Next, the first airflow F1 and the second airflow F2 in the dehumidification mode will be described in detail. First, the user drives the dehumidifier 30 through the control unit 20 using the operation panel 11c. As a result, the first airflow F1 is dehumidified by the dehumidifier 30 when passing through the second chamber 52. And the dehumidifier box 60 contains the second water dehumidified by the dehumidifier 30. In addition, the second airflow F2 passes through the third chamber 53. Therefore, the dehumidified air is discharged from the air conditioner 100.

[0059] Furthermore, refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , the structure of the air conditioner 100 is described in detail. Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing the structure of the air conditioner 100. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the air conditioner 100 further includes a first detection unit 91 and a second detection unit 92. The first detection unit 91 is an example of a detection unit.

[0060] The first detection unit 91 is arranged at a predetermined position of the frame 10. Specifically, the first detection unit 91 is arranged in the third chamber 53 of the frame 10. The first detection unit 91 detects a first physical quantity related to the first water. The first physical quantity is an example of a physical quantity. For example, the first physical quantity includes information indicating whether there is a first amount (for example, 100 ml) or more of the first water. The first amount is, for example, the amount of the first water that can humidify the air.

[0061] The second detection unit 92 is disposed at a predetermined position of the frame 10. Specifically, the second detection unit 92 is disposed in the third chamber 53 of the frame 10. The second detection unit 92 detects a second physical quantity related to the second water. The second physical quantity includes information indicating whether there is a second amount or more of the second water. The second amount is, for example, the amount of the second water that the dehumidification box 60 can accommodate.

[0062] The control unit 20 determines whether to prohibit the dehumidification operation based on the first physical quantity. Specifically, when the first physical quantity indicates that there is a first amount of first water or more, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is prohibited. On the other hand, when the first physical quantity indicates that there is no first amount of first water or more, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is not prohibited. In this embodiment, even when the humidification tank 70 is not installed on the frame 10, the first physical quantity indicates that there is no first amount of first water or more, and the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is not prohibited.

[0063] The control unit 20 makes a notification when it is determined that the dehumidification operation is prohibited. For example, the control unit 20 displays a warning message on the display unit of the operation panel 11c, lights up the operation button related to the dehumidification operation on the operation panel 11c in red or outputs a warning sound. In addition, the control unit 20 may make a notification when the operation panel 11c is operated after determining that the dehumidification operation is prohibited.

[0064] Above, as referenced Figures 1 to 9 As described, the control unit 20 determines whether to prohibit the dehumidification operation based on the first physical quantity. Therefore, when the humidification tank 70 is not installed on the frame 10, although the dehumidification operation can be performed, the prohibition of the dehumidification operation can be appropriately suppressed. In addition, the first physical quantity includes information indicating whether there is a first amount or more of the first water. Therefore, the control unit 20 can more appropriately determine whether the dehumidification operation is prohibited. In addition, the control unit 20 notifies the situation in which the dehumidification operation is determined to be prohibited. Therefore, the user can recognize the situation in which the humidification tank 70 needs to be emptied.

[0065] Next, refer to Figures 9 to 12 , the humidification box 70 and the dehumidification box 60 are described. Fig.10 yes Figure 5 The humidification box 70 shown is a cross-sectional view when it is fixed inside the dehumidification box 60. In detail, Fig.10 Cutting in XY plane Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the dehumidification tank 60 and the humidification tank 70 is shown. Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI is shown. Fig.12 yes Fig.10 The cross-sectional view along the line XII-XII is shown. Fig.12 The humidification tank 70 is omitted.

[0066] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the humidification box 70 also has a first detected body 93 and a silver filter 95. The first detected body 93 is an example of a detected body. The first bottom surface 71 has a first recess 71a and a second recess 71b that are recessed downward. The first detected body 93 is arranged in the first recess 71a. The first detected body 93 is movable relative to the first bottom surface 71. Specifically, the first detected body 93 rotates between an upper position and a lower position along the rotation direction RF. In detail, the first detected body 93 includes foamed polystyrene 93a and a magnet 93b. As a result, when the first water of more than the first amount is present in the humidification box 70, the first detected body 93 is located in the upper position. On the other hand, when the first water of more than the first amount is not present in the humidification box 70, the first detected body 93 is located in the lower position.

[0067] The silver filter 95 has a function for suppressing the degradation of the accumulated first water, for example, a sterilization function using antibacterial metal ions, a sterilization function achieved by a drug, a sterilization function achieved by electrolysis, etc. The shape of the silver filter 95 is, for example, a substantially cylindrical body. The silver filter 95 is disposed in the second recess 61b. As a result, even if the first water in the humidification tank 70 is a small amount, the first water can be suppressed from deteriorating because the silver filter 95 is immersed in the first water.

[0068] The first detection unit 91 detects whether the first detected body 93 exists within a specified range. The first detection unit 91 is, for example, a magnetic sensor, a Hall element, or a reed switch. The first detection unit 91 outputs a first detection signal to the control unit 20 when the first detected body 93 is located in an upper position. That is, the first detection unit 91 outputs a first detection signal to the control unit 20 when there is a first amount or more of first water. On the other hand, the first detection unit 91 does not output the first detection signal when the first detected body 93 is located in a lower position. That is, the first detection unit 91 does not output the first detection signal when there is no first amount or more of first water.

[0069] When the first detection signal is input, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is prohibited. In detail, the humidification box 70 is installed in the frame 10, and when there is a first amount of first water or more in the humidification box 70, since the first detected body 93 exists in the prescribed range, the first detection signal is input to the control unit 20. As a result, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is prohibited. On the other hand, when the humidification box 70 is installed in the frame 10 and there is no first amount of first water or more in the humidification box 70, since the first detected body 93 does not exist in the prescribed range, the first detection signal is not input to the control unit 20. As a result, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is not prohibited. In addition, when the humidification box 70 is not installed in the frame 10, since the first detected body 93 does not exist in the prescribed range, the first detection signal is not input to the control unit 20. As a result, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is not prohibited.

[0070] Above, as referenced Figures 1 to 11 As described above, when the first detection signal is input, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification operation is prohibited. Therefore, the configuration of the first detection unit 91 can be simplified.

[0071] Then, if Fig.10 and Fig.12As shown, the dehumidification box 60 also has a second detected body 94. The second detected body 94 is arranged on the third wall 65. The second detected body 94 is movable relative to the third wall 65. Specifically, the second detected body 94 moves between an upper position and a lower position along the up-down direction DF. In detail, the second detected body 94 includes foamed polystyrene 94a and a magnet 94b. As a result, when the second water exceeding the second amount is present in the dehumidification box 60, the second detected body 94 is located in the upper position. On the other hand, when the second water exceeding the second amount is not present in the dehumidification box 60, the second detected body 94 is located in the lower position.

[0072] The second detection unit 92 detects whether the second detected object 94 exists within a specified range. The second detection unit 92 is, for example, a magnetic sensor, a Hall element, or a reed switch. The second detection unit 92 outputs a second detection signal to the control unit 20 when the second detected object 94 is located in an upper position. That is, the second detection unit 92 outputs a second detection signal to the control unit 20 when the second water of more than the second amount exists in the dehumidification box 60. On the other hand, the second detection unit 92 does not output the second detection signal when the second detected object 94 is located in a lower position. That is, the second detection unit 92 does not output the second detection signal when the second water of more than the second amount does not exist in the dehumidification box 60.

[0073] When the second detection signal is input, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification box 60 is full of water. In detail, when there is no second water exceeding the second amount in the dehumidification box 60, the second detection signal is not input because the second detection object 94 does not exist within the prescribed range. As a result, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification box 60 is not full of water. On the other hand, when there is second water exceeding the second amount in the dehumidification box 60, the second detection signal is input to the control unit 20 because the second detection object 94 exists within the prescribed range. As a result, the control unit 20 determines that the dehumidification box 60 is full of water. Therefore, the user discards the second water in the dehumidification box 60 to the outside.

[0074] In addition, if Figure 7 As shown, the humidification box 70 also includes an extension portion 81 extending outward from the upper end portion of the first wall portion 72. Specifically, the extension portion 81 includes a first extension portion 81a, a second extension portion 81b, a third extension portion 81c, and a fourth extension portion 81d. The first extension portion 81a and the second extension portion 81b extend outward from the upper end portion of the second wall 74. The third extension portion 81c extends outward from the upper end portion of the fourth wall 76. The fourth extension portion 81d extends outward from the upper end portion of the fifth wall 77.

[0075] Moreover, if Figure 5As shown, when the humidifying box 70 is mounted on the dehumidifying box 60, the lower surface of the extension portion 81 abuts against the upper surface of the second wall portion 62 of the dehumidifying box 60. Therefore, the downward movement of the humidifying box 70 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 can be restricted. As a result, the looseness of the humidifying box 70 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 can be suppressed.

[0076] Next, refer to Figures 5 to 13 , the structure of integrating the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 is explained. Fig.13 70 is a cross-sectional view of the humidification box 70 when it is inserted into the dehumidification box 60. In detail, Fig.13 Cutting in XY plane Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the dehumidification tank 60 and the humidification tank 70 is shown.

[0077] like Figure 6 As shown, the dehumidification box 60 also has a second engaging portion 69 arranged on the second wall portion 62. In detail, the second engaging portion 69 protrudes inward from the upper end of the second wall portion 62. Specifically, the second engaging portion 69 has a first protrusion 69a, a second protrusion 69b, a third protrusion 69c and a fourth protrusion 69d. The first protrusion 69a, the second protrusion 69b and the third protrusion 69c are each in the shape of a flat plate. In addition, the shape of the fourth protrusion 69d is roughly in the shape of a flat plate. In addition, the shape of the fourth protrusion 69d can also be the same as the shape of the first protrusion 69a, the second protrusion 69b and the third protrusion 69c. The first protrusion 69a and the second protrusion 69b are arranged on the inner circumference of the first wall 63. The third protrusion 69c is arranged on the inner circumference of the fifth wall 67. The fourth protrusion 69d is arranged on the inner circumference of the fourth wall 66.

[0078] like Figure 7 As shown, the humidifying box 70 also has a first engaging portion 79 arranged on the first wall portion 72. In detail, the first engaging portion 79 has a recessed portion recessed from the first wall portion 72 toward the inside. Specifically, the first engaging portion 79 has a first recessed portion 79a, a second recessed portion 79b, a third recessed portion 79c, and a fourth recessed portion 79d. The first recessed portion 79a and the second recessed portion 79b are arranged on the second wall 74. The third recessed portion 79c is arranged on the fifth wall 77. The fourth recessed portion 79d is arranged on the fourth wall 76. The shape of the first recessed portion 79a corresponds to the shape of the first protrusion 69a. The shape of the second recessed portion 79b corresponds to the shape of the second protrusion 69b. The shape of the third recessed portion 79c corresponds to the shape of the third protrusion 69c. The shape of the fourth recessed portion 79d corresponds to the shape of the fourth protrusion 69d.

[0079] like Figure 5 and Fig.13As shown, the first recess 79a, the second recess 79b and the third recess 79c respectively have a high wall portion 101 and a low wall portion 102. The height of the low wall portion 102 along the second direction D2 is lower than the height of the high wall portion 101 along the second direction D2. The low wall portion 102 is arranged on the side of the high wall portion 101 opposite to the first direction D1. In addition, the fourth recess 79d has a cavity portion 103 and a low plate portion 104. The low plate portion 104 is arranged on the side of the cavity portion 103 opposite to the first direction D1.

[0080] Next, the installation method of the humidifying box 70 and the dehumidifying box 60 will be described in detail. The user arranges the first protrusion 69a in the first recess 79a, arranges the second protrusion 69b in the second recess 79b, arranges the third protrusion 69c in the third recess 79c, and arranges the fourth protrusion 69d in the hollow portion 103. The user moves the humidifying box 70 downward relative to the dehumidifying box 60. If the humidifying box 70 moves downward, the lower surface of the extension 81 abuts against the upper surface of the second wall portion 62 of the dehumidifying box 60. As a result, the downward movement of the humidifying box 70 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 can be restricted.

[0081] Then, if Figure 5 and Fig.10 As shown, the user moves the humidifying box 70 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 in the first direction D1. If the humidifying box 70 moves in the first direction D1, the first protrusion 69a, the second protrusion 69b, the third protrusion 69c and the fourth protrusion 69d are respectively arranged on the low wall portion 102 or the low plate portion 104, and contact the high wall portion 101. That is, the first engaging portion 79 engages with the second engaging portion 69. As a result, in a state where the first engaging portion 79 engages with the second engaging portion 69, the movement of the humidifying box 70 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 is restricted. Therefore, the humidifying box 70 can be fixed to the dehumidifying box 60. As a result, for example, when the structure in which the humidifying box 70 and the dehumidifying box 60 are integrated accidentally falls, the humidifying box 70 can be prevented from falling off from the dehumidifying box 60 with a simple structure.

[0082] Next, refer to Fig.14 , a method for limiting the movement of the humidification tank 70 relative to the dehumidification tank 60 in the direction opposite to the first direction D1 will be described in detail. Fig.14 Schematic diagram showing the interior of the air conditioner 100 according to the first embodiment. Fig.14 As shown, the housing 10 further includes an adjustment unit 19. Specifically, the adjustment unit 19 is disposed in the third chamber 53.

[0083] The adjustment part 19 adjusts the position of the humidifying box 70 relative to the frame 10. Specifically, the adjustment part 19 is a rib. In detail, in a state where the dehumidifying box 60 and the humidifying box 70 are integrated, they are pushed in a direction opposite to the first direction D1 relative to the third chamber 53 of the frame 10. If they are pushed in a direction opposite to the first direction D1 relative to the third chamber 53, when the movement of the humidifying box 70 in the first direction D1 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 is insufficient, the adjustment part 19 abuts against the gripping part 78. As a result, the humidifying box 70 moves in the first direction D1 relative to the dehumidifying box 60.

[0084] Therefore, the humidification tank 70 is arranged at an appropriate position of the housing 10. In addition, the first detection unit 91 is arranged at a predetermined position of the housing 10. As a result, the first detection unit 91 can detect the position of the first detection object 93 with high accuracy.

[0085] Furthermore, refer to Figures 2 to 5 , the humidifying unit 40 disposed in the third chamber 53 is described in detail. Preferably, the humidifying unit 40, the humidifying box 70, and the dehumidifying box 60 can be loaded and unloaded relative to the frame 10 in an integrated state. Specifically, the humidifying unit 40, the dehumidifying box 60, and the humidifying box 70 can be pulled out in the first direction D1 relative to the third chamber 53 of the frame 10 in an integrated state. According to this preferred example, the frame 10 only needs to have one storage space, so the air conditioner 100 can be further miniaturized.

[0086] More specifically, if Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the humidifying unit 40 has a filter unit. The filter unit is impregnated with the first water. For example, the filter unit is a rectangular sheet. The sheet is formed of a material having water absorption and air permeability. The sheet is formed of rayon, for example.

[0087] The humidifying section 40 is housed in the humidifying box 70. Specifically, one end of the humidifying section 40 is connected to the first wall 73, and the other end of the humidifying section 40 is connected to the third wall 75. The upper end of the humidifying section 40 is in contact with the holding section 78, and the lower end of the humidifying section 40 is in contact with the first bottom surface 71. As a result, air passes through the humidifying section 40. Therefore, the humidified air is released from the humidifying section 40. In addition, the humidifying section 40 is arranged between the first detected body 93 and the silver filter 95.

[0088] In addition, the dehumidification box 60 and the humidification box 70 can be separated from the humidification unit 40 in a state where the humidification unit 40, the dehumidification box 60, and the humidification box 70 are removed from the housing 10. As a result, the humidification unit 40 can be easily replaced.

[0089] Next, refer to Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 , the dehumidification unit 30 disposed in the second chamber 52 is described in detail. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the dehumidifier 30 includes an evaporator 31 , a capacitor 32 , and a compressor.

[0090] The evaporator 31 and the capacitor 32 each have a flow pipe for a medium to flow. The medium is, for example, fluorocarbon. The material of the flow pipe is, for example, metal. The flow pipe of the evaporator 31, the flow pipe of the capacitor 32, and the compressor are connected to each other.

[0091] The compressor compresses the medium in the state of low-temperature gas to produce a medium in the state of high-temperature gas. And, the compressor sends the medium in the state of high-temperature gas to the flow pipe of the capacitor 32. The medium in the state of high-temperature gas liquefies while transferring heat in the flow pipe of the capacitor 32, and becomes a medium in the state of high-temperature liquid. Furthermore, the medium in the state of high-temperature liquid expands and becomes a medium in the state of low-temperature liquid. The medium in the state of low-temperature liquid is an example of a refrigerant. The medium in the state of low-temperature liquid vaporizes while receiving heat in the flow pipe of the evaporator 31, and becomes a medium in the state of low-temperature gas. Thereafter, the medium in the state of low-temperature gas is compressed again by the compressor. In this way, the medium circulates between the flow pipe of the evaporator 31, the flow pipe of the capacitor 32, and the compressor.

[0092] The evaporator 31 performs heat exchange between the air and the refrigerant to remove water vapor from the air. Specifically, the flow tube of the evaporator 31 is meandering in the second chamber 52. The evaporator 31 also has a plurality of metal plates between the flow tubes. As a result, the air flows in the second chamber 52 while contacting the flow tube or the metal plate. Therefore, the air transfers heat to the refrigerant, and the temperature of the air decreases. As a result, water droplets based on the water vapor in the air adhere to the flow tube or the metal plate. Thus, the evaporator 31 can effectively remove water vapor from the air.

[0093] The capacitor 32 performs heat exchange between the air and the medium in the state of high temperature gas, and generates air of a predetermined temperature. Specifically, the flow pipe of the capacitor 32 is meandering in the second chamber 52. The capacitor 32 also has a plurality of metal plates between the flow pipes. As a result, the air flows in the second chamber 52 while contacting the flow pipe or the metal plate. Therefore, the air receives heat from the medium in the state of high temperature gas, and the temperature of the air rises.

[0094] <Second Embodiment>

[0095] Next, refer to Fig.15 , an air conditioner 100 according to a second embodiment will be described. Fig.15 1 is a perspective view showing the humidification box 70 and the dehumidification box 60. In the air conditioner 100 according to the first embodiment, the frame 10 has an adjustment unit 19, such as Fig.15As shown in FIG. 1 , the air conditioner 100 according to the second embodiment further includes a regulating member 90 .

[0096] When the humidifying box 70 and the dehumidifying box 60 are integrated, the limiting member 90 is disposed between the wall portion of the humidifying box 70 and the wall portion of the dehumidifying box 60. Specifically, the limiting member 90 is disposed between the third wall 75 and the third wall 65. The limiting member 90 limits the movement of the humidifying box 70 relative to the dehumidifying box 60 in the direction opposite to the first direction D1. Therefore, the humidifying box 70 can be fixed to the dehumidifying box 60 more reliably.

[0097] Specifically, for example, the limiting member 90 is formed in a funnel shape. Specifically, the limiting member 90 has a receiving portion 98 and a hole portion 99 .

[0098] The receiving portion 98 is disposed below the dehumidifying portion 30 . The receiving portion 98 receives the second water generated by the dehumidifying portion 30 .

[0099] The hole 99 guides the second water received by the receiving portion 98 to the inside of the dehumidification box 60. As a result, the second water is contained in the dehumidification box 60. Therefore, the humidification box 70 can be more reliably fixed to the dehumidification box 60 with a simple structure, and the second water can be contained in the dehumidification box 60.

[0100] Therefore, when the dehumidification box 60 is disposed at an appropriate position of the frame 10, the humidification box 70 is also disposed at an appropriate position of the frame 10. In addition, the first detection unit 91 is disposed at a predetermined position of the frame 10. As a result, the first detection unit 91 can detect the position of the first object 93 with high accuracy.

[0101] <Third Embodiment>

[0102] Next, refer to Fig.16 , an air conditioner 100 according to a third embodiment will be described. Fig.16 4 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifying unit 40, the humidifying box 70 and the dehumidifying box 60. In the air conditioner 100 according to the first embodiment, the humidifying box 70 is arranged inside the dehumidifying box 60, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the air conditioner 100 according to the third embodiment, the humidification box 70 and the dehumidification box 60 are provided in parallel.

[0103] Above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of its main purpose. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple constituent elements disclosed in the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, several constituent elements can also be deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, the constituent elements of different embodiments can also be appropriately combined. For ease of understanding, the accompanying drawings are schematically shown with each constituent element as the main body, and the thickness, length, number, interval, etc. of each constituent element shown in the drawings are sometimes different from the actual ones from the perspective of drawing. In addition, the material, shape, size, etc. of each constituent element shown in the above-mentioned embodiments are an example, and are not particularly limited, and various changes can be made within the scope of the effect of the present invention.

[0104] (1) As reference Figures 1 to 16 As described, in the first to third embodiments, the first detection unit 91 and the second detection unit 92 are, for example, magnetic sensors, Hall elements, or reed switches that output detection signals under specified conditions, but the present invention is not limited to this. The first detection unit 91 and the second detection unit 92 may also be, for example, infrared sensors. The infrared sensor detects information indicating the amount of the first water or the second water at specified time intervals. The control unit 20 calculates the amount of the first water based on the information indicating the amount of the first water, and determines whether to prohibit the dehumidification operation. Specifically, when the control unit 20 calculates that the first water does not exist at all, it determines that the dehumidification operation is not prohibited. On the other hand, when the control unit 20 calculates that a small amount of the first water exists, it determines that the dehumidification operation is prohibited.

[0105] (2)Reference Figures 1 to 16 As described, in the first to third embodiments, there are a "dehumidification mode" and a "humidification mode", but the present invention is not limited thereto. The air conditioner 100 may also have an "air purification mode" and / or a "clothes drying mode". Moreover, the control unit 20 may also determine whether to prohibit the operation of the "air purification mode" and / or the "clothes drying mode" based on the first physical quantity. For example, when the first physical quantity indicates the presence of a first amount or more of the first water, the control unit 20 determines that the operation of the "air purification mode" and / or the "clothes drying mode" is prohibited.

[0106] (3) As reference Figures 1 to 16 As described above, in the first to third embodiments, the control unit 20 notifies that the dehumidification operation is prohibited, but the present invention is not limited to this. The control unit 20 may also prohibit the dehumidification operation. For example, the control unit 20 may also limit the operation panel 11c so that it does not receive information other than the information indicating the humidification mode.

[0107] (4)Reference Figures 1 to 16 As described above, in the first to third embodiments, the humidifying unit 40 is housed in the humidifying tank 70 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. The humidifying unit 40 may not be housed in the humidifying tank 70 .

[0108] (5) As reference Figures 1 to 16 As described above, in the first to third embodiments, the fan generates the first airflow F1 and the second airflow F2 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. The fan is a centrifugal fan and may generate one airflow passing through both the dehumidifier 30 and the humidifier 40 .

[0109] Industrial Applicability

[0110] The present invention provides an air conditioner having industrial applicability.

[0111] Description of Reference Numerals

[0112] 10 Frame

[0113] 20 Control Department

[0114] 30 Dehumidification unit

[0115] 40 humidification section

[0116] 60 Dehumidification chamber

[0117] 62 Second wall

[0118] 69 Second engagement portion

[0119] 70 Humidifier

[0120] 72 First wall

[0121] 79 first engagement portion

[0122] 81 Extension

[0123] 90 Restricted parts

[0124] 91 First Detection Department

[0125] 92 Second Detection Department

[0126] 100 Air Conditioner

[0127] D1 First direction

Claims

1. A humidity control device, characterized in that: have: a humidifying section for performing humidification; a first container for storing first water supplied to the humidifying unit; a dehumidification section for performing dehumidification; a second container that contains second water generated by the dehumidification unit and is different from the first container; a detection unit for detecting the presence of the first water in the first container; as well as controlling the control unit of the dehumidification unit according to the detection result of the detection unit, The control unit prohibits the operation of the dehumidifier unit when the first water exists in the first container.

2. The humidity control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit permits the operation of the dehumidifier unit when the first water does not exist in the first container.

3. The humidity control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit performs notification when the first water exists in the first container.

4. The humidity control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The humidity control device further comprises a frame body on which the first container and the second container are detachably mounted. The control unit allows the dehumidifier to operate when the first container is removed from the housing.

5. The humidity control device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first container and the second container are mounted on the frame in a state where the first container is arranged inside the second container.

6. A humidity control device, characterized in that: a humidifying section for performing humidification; a first container for storing first water supplied to the humidifying unit; a dehumidification section for performing dehumidification; a second container for accommodating second water generated by the dehumidification unit; a detection unit for detecting a physical quantity related to the first water; a control unit for determining whether to prohibit the dehumidification operation based on the physical quantity; as well as Frame, The physical quantity includes information indicating whether the amount of the first water is greater than a predetermined amount, The first container is disposed inside the second container, The first container and the second container are integrated and can be attached to and detached from the frame. The first container and the second container can be separated when removed from the frame.

7. The humidity control device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first container has a bottom surface and a detected object movable relative to the bottom surface. The frame has an adjustment portion for adjusting the position of the first container relative to the frame. The detection unit is disposed at a predetermined position of the frame body, and detects whether the object to be detected is present within a predetermined range.

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