Dehumidifier system and assembly

Abstract

A dehumidification system and dehumidifier assembly for humidity management in an interior environment. The system includes a plurality of dehumidifier assemblies, each dehumidifier assembly including: a housing defining an air inlet and an air outlet; a heat exchange core defining therein a first airflow path and a second airflow path, the first airflow path being fluidly connected to the air inlet and the second airflow path being fluidly connected to the air outlet; and a water injection system at least partially disposed in the housing. And a water injection system arranged for delivering water droplets downstream of the first airflow path to condense moisture in air flowing from the first airflow path when the assembly is in use, and configured to be fluidly connected to the cold water supply. The housing and the heat exchange core are arranged such that air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second airflow path.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 327,475, filed on April 5, 2022, entitled “Dehumidifier Systems and Components,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present technology relates generally to dehumidifiers, and more particularly to dehumidifier systems and assemblies for use in interior environments. Background Art

[0004] A variety of climate management strategies and systems are known for maintaining air quality and / or managing humidity to keep people in interior spaces comfortable. These climate management strategies and systems include, among other things, opening windows, using air exchangers, and using humidifiers or dehumidifiers. Such standard HVAC systems are generally designed around temperature and humidity levels that are considered comfortable for daily human activities. When designing a climate control system for use in situations where the desired temperature and humidity levels differ from typical HVAC requirements, such as in a greenhouse, a different solution is required.

[0005] A standard practice for managing humidity, particularly in semi-enclosed environments such as greenhouses, is to open windows or shutters to the outside of the environment to allow humid air to flow out and allow drier air to flow in. In cool or colder climates, the drier air may be cooler or much cooler than the humid air flowing out. When this solution is employed, the overall temperature of the interior environment drops when the air is exchanged to reduce humidity. Therefore, additional heat is then required to restore the interior environment to the desired temperature conditions, thereby increasing energy consumption and costs.

[0006] Another solution to humidity and climate management is proposed in U.S. Patent No. 9,140,396, issued on September 22, 2015. A dehumidification device is disclosed that uses a cooling core connected to an external cooling source so that a coolant fluid circulates through the cooling core. Although the problem of losing heated air to the outside is avoided, this solution requires the use of a cooling fluid in the refrigeration device to cool the air to cause condensation. In such a refrigeration system, the coolant fluid may evaporate, causing damage to the environment. Large heat exchange equipment is also usually required to cool the coolant fluid, which usually requires a large amount of energy to operate and occupies a large area of ​​the environment.

[0007] Therefore, it remains desirable to find solutions for managing humidity in internal environments. Summary of the invention

[0008] The purpose of the present technology is to improve at least some of the inconveniences existing in the prior art.

[0009] According to various aspects of the present technology, a dehumidifier system for managing humidity in an interior space, such as a semi-enclosed or closed environment, is proposed. The system includes a centralized cold water supply, one or more dehumidifier assemblies, and a water collection system that is fluidly connected to these assemblies. Each dehumidifier assembly includes a heat exchange core and a water injection system that receives cold water from a cold water supply. The air circulating through the assembly is cooled by the core, sprayed with cold water to cause condensation, and then heated again by flowing back through the core (warming the outflow air flowing therefrom, and thereby cooling the inflow air). Then, the water condensed from the air is collected by the water collection system, and the water can be sent to a drain pipe in the water collection system, returned to the cold water supply, and / or provided to plants or other facilities in the environment. In some cases, water injection is also used to help filter air in a process commonly referred to as "air washing".

[0010] By centralizing the cold water supply and water collection system, relatively small and low-cost dehumidifier components can be installed at different locations throughout the internal environment. The system can provide more efficient dehumidification in the internal environment by having the ability to process air at multiple different locations by these components. In some cases, the components can be controlled individually or in subgroups to provide local humidity control, also referred to herein as microclimate, in different areas of the internal environment. In at least some embodiments, the heat exchange core, component housing, and / or water collection system can be manufactured using additive manufacturing (either individually or as an integrally connected unit).

[0011] According to one aspect of the present technology, a dehumidifier assembly for humidity management in an internal environment is provided. The assembly includes: a housing, the housing defining at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet; a heat exchange core, the heat exchange core at least partially disposed in the housing, the heat exchange core defining a first airflow path and a second airflow path therein, the first airflow path being fluidly connected to the at least one air inlet at an input end of the first airflow path, the second airflow path being fluidly connected to the at least one air outlet at an output end of the second airflow path; and a water injection system, the water injection system at least partially disposed in the housing, the water injection system being configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water supply, the water injection system being arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end of the first airflow path to condense moisture in air flowing from the first airflow path when the assembly is in use, the housing and the heat exchange core being arranged so that at least some of the air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second airflow path.

[0012] In some embodiments, the heat exchange core is formed by additive manufacturing.

[0013] In some embodiments, the heat exchange core has a honeycomb counterflow geometry; the first airflow path is formed by a first plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core; and the second airflow path is formed by a second plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core.

[0014] In some embodiments, the housing is configured to be connected to a water collection system to remove water from the housing.

[0015] In some embodiments, the housing defines at least one opening in a lower portion of the housing, the at least one opening being arranged to be fluidly connected to a water collection system.

[0016] In some embodiments, a water injection system includes at least one injection nozzle at least partially disposed within a housing.

[0017] In some embodiments, the shell includes at least one partition wall that extends generally vertically through a portion of the shell; an air outlet and at least one injection nozzle of a first air flow path are disposed on a first side of the at least one partition wall; and an air inlet of a second air flow path is disposed on a second side of the at least one partition wall.

[0018] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier assembly further comprises a fan disposed in the housing, the fan being arranged, in use, to draw air from the interior of the housing through the second air flow path.

[0019] In some embodiments, the shell, the heat exchange core and the water injection system are arranged so that when the device is in use: warm and humid air flows into at least one air inlet and flows into the first air flow path, and heat is transferred from the air flowing through the first air flow path to the air flowing through the second air flow path, thereby cooling the air flowing through the first air flow path; the cooled humid air flows out of the first air flow path and is affected by the mist injected from the water injection system, which further cools the air flowing through the water injection system and causes moisture in the air to condense; the cooled and dehumidified air flows into the input end of the second air flow path to flow through the heat exchange core, and the air flowing through the second air flow path receives heat from the air flowing through the first air flow path via the heat exchange core; and the air that has been dehumidified by being heated again flows out of at least one air outlet of the shell.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least a majority of the heat exchange core is disposed vertically above the water injection system.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heat exchange core is a first heat exchange core arranged in the upper part of the shell; and the first heat exchange part is vertically arranged above the water injection system; and also includes a second heat exchange core arranged in the lower part of the shell, and the second heat exchange part is arranged below the water injection system.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present technology, a dehumidification system for humidity management in an internal environment is provided. The system includes a plurality of dehumidifier assemblies, each of which includes: a housing defining at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet; a heat exchange core disposed in the housing, the heat exchange core defining a first airflow path and a second airflow path therein, the first airflow path being fluidly connected to the at least one air inlet at an input end of the first airflow path, the second airflow path being fluidly connected to the at least one air outlet at an output end of the second airflow path; and a water injection system, the water injection system being at least partially disposed in the housing, the water injection system being arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end of the first airflow path to condense moisture in air flowing from the first airflow path when the assembly is in use, the water injection system being configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water supply, the housing and the heat exchange core being arranged so that at least some of the air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second airflow path, and the system including a water collection system, the water collection system being fluidly connected to each dehumidifier assembly for receiving water from each dehumidifier assembly.

[0023] In some embodiments, the dehumidification system further includes a cold water supply fluidly connected to the water injection system of each dehumidifier assembly.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cold water supply includes: a water reservoir; and a pump fluidly connected to the water reservoir and to the water injection system of each dehumidifier assembly.

[0025] In some embodiments, the dehumidification system further comprises a chiller unit operatively connected to the water reservoir for cooling water in the water reservoir during operation of the system.

[0026] In some embodiments, the chiller unit is disposed outside the interior environment.

[0027] In some embodiments, the water collection system is fluidly connected to the water reservoir such that water collected from the plurality of dehumidifier assemblies is provided to the cold water supply for reuse during operation of the system.

[0028] In some embodiments, the system is arranged to deliver water collected by the water collection system to at least one planting structure.

[0029] In some embodiments, the water collection system is formed from a plurality of rigid tubes.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plurality of rigid tubes are formed by additive manufacturing.

[0031] In some embodiments, the dehumidification system further comprises a water filter fluidly connected to the water collection system for filtering the collected water.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present technology, a dehumidifier structure for humidity management in an internal environment is provided, the component comprising: a container; a dehumidifier component, the dehumidifier component is partially disposed in the container, the dehumidifier component comprises a shell and a heat exchange core, the shell is defined with at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet, the heat exchange core is at least partially disposed in the shell, the heat exchange core is defined therein with a first air flow path and a second air flow path, the first air flow path is fluidly connected to the at least one air inlet at the input end of the first air flow path, and the second air flow path is fluidly connected to the at least one air outlet at the output end of the second air flow path; and a water injection system, the water injection system is at least partially disposed in the container, the water injection system is configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water supply, the water injection system is arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end of the first air flow path to condense moisture in the air flowing from the first air flow path when the component is in use, the shell and the heat exchange core are arranged so that at least some of the air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second air flow path.

[0033] In some embodiments, the heat exchange core is formed by additive manufacturing.

[0034] In some embodiments, the heat exchange core has a honeycomb counterflow geometry; the first airflow path is formed by a first plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core; and the second airflow path is formed by a second plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core.

[0035] In some embodiments, the container is configured to be connected to a water collection system to remove water from the housing.

[0036] In some embodiments, a water injection system includes at least one injection nozzle at least partially disposed within a vessel.

[0037] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier structure further comprises at least one fan disposed in the housing, the fan being arranged, in use, to draw air from the interior of the container into the second air flow path.

[0038] In some embodiments, the container, shell, heat exchange core and water injection system are arranged so that when the device is in use: warm humid air flows into at least one air inlet and flows into the first air flow path, and heat is transferred from the air flowing through the first air flow path to the air flowing through the second air flow path, thereby cooling the air flowing through the first air flow path; the cooled humid air flows out of the first air flow path and is affected by the mist injected from the water injection system, which further cools the air flowing through the water injection system and causes moisture in the air to condense; the cooled and dehumidified air flows into the input end of the second air flow path to flow through the heat exchange core, and the air flowing through the second air flow path receives heat from the air flowing through the first air flow path via the heat exchange core; and the air that has been dehumidified by being heated again flows out from at least one air outlet of the shell.

[0039] According to yet another aspect of the present technology, a dehumidifier system is provided, the dehumidifier system comprising at least one dehumidifier structure according to any one of the above embodiments and at least one water collecting structure fluidly connected to the water collecting structure.

[0040] As used herein, in the context of a given value or range, the term "about" refers to a value or range that is within 20%, preferably within 10%, and more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0041] The embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned purposes and / or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology resulting from attempts to achieve the above-mentioned purposes may not satisfy the purposes and / or may satisfy other purposes not specifically described herein.

[0042] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, drawings, and appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features of the present technology, reference is made to the following description used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an interior environment in which a dehumidification system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present technology is installed;

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the environment and dehumidification system;

[0046] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A schematic diagram of an environment in which a dehumidification system according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology is installed;

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a dehumidifier assembly of a dehumidification system;

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a dehumidifier assembly;

[0049] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A partially cutaway cross-sectional view of a dehumidifier assembly;

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 a partial exploded view of an upper portion of a dehumidifier assembly;

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of a heat exchange core of a dehumidifier assembly;

[0052] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A top plan view of a heat exchange core;

[0053] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram of a dehumidifier assembly according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology;

[0054] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a dehumidifier assembly according to yet another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology;

[0055] Fig. 12A yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of the environment and dehumidification system;

[0056] Fig. 12B yes Figure 1 A schematic top plan view of the environment and dehumidification system;

[0057] Fig.13A is a schematic side view of an environmental and dehumidification system according to another non-limiting embodiment;

[0058] Fig. 13B yes Fig.13A A schematic top plan view of the environment and dehumidification system;

[0059] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a dehumidifier system according to yet another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology;

[0060] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A side view of a dehumidifier system;

[0061] Fig.16 yes Fig.14 A three-dimensional diagram of a dehumidifier structure of a dehumidifier system;

[0062] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 Another perspective view of the dehumidifier structure;

[0063] Fig.18 It is along Fig.17 The line 18-18 is intercepted Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier structure;

[0064] Fig.19 yes Fig.16 A perspective view of a dehumidifier assembly of a dehumidifier structure;

[0065] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 A side view of a dehumidifier assembly of FIG. 1 , wherein a container of the dehumidifier structure is schematically illustrated;

[0066] Fig.21 It is along Fig. 20 The line 21-21 is intercepted Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of a dehumidifier assembly and a schematic container;

[0067] Fig. 22 yes Fig.19 A perspective view of a heat exchanger core of a dehumidifier assembly; and

[0068] Fig.23 yes Fig.21 A cross-sectional view of a dehumidifier assembly and schematic container illustrating alternative airflow patterns.

[0069] Unless otherwise noted, the drawings may not be drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] Although the present technology is described below primarily with respect to use within a semi-enclosed environment, particularly a greenhouse, it is contemplated that aspects may also be applied to other interior environments, including but not limited to semi-enclosed environments or enclosed environments. The systems described herein may be implemented in a variety of interior spaces, including but not limited to: laboratories or research environments requiring humidity management; material, nutritional, and / or industrial processing facilities; habitable spaces requiring additional or alternative humidity management; and facilities requiring air filtration in addition to humidity management.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , illustrates a dehumidification system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present technology. The dehumidification system 100 is Figure 11 is shown in use in a semi-enclosed environment 10, and in particular in a semi-enclosed greenhouse environment 10. The components of the dehumidification system 100 are illustrated here; the operation of the system 100 is described in more detail below.

[0072] The dehumidification system 100 includes a plurality of dehumidification assemblies 200. The exact number of dehumidification assemblies 200 provided in a given dehumidification system 100 will vary depending on different embodiments of the system 100. It is contemplated that some embodiments may include as few as only one dehumidifier assembly 200, and may include as many assemblies 200 as are required by the size and needs of the particular environment in which the system 100 is installed without particular limitation. Each dehumidifier assembly 200 is configured to draw in warm, humid air, cool the air and remove moisture from the air, and then reheat the dried air to output drier, warm air back into the environment 10. The details of the dehumidification assembly 200 will be described in more detail below.

[0073] The dehumidification system 100 also includes a water collection system 110 for collecting water extracted from the air by the dehumidification assembly 200. In the illustrated example, the water collection system 110 is formed by a series of connected rigid tubes 112. The current tubes 112 are formed by additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing). The tubes 112 and other components formed by additive manufacturing described herein are generally formed by polylactic acid (PLA), but it is envisioned that various materials can be used, including but not limited to: modified polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), recycled plastics, and metal composites such as stainless steel, copper and titanium configured for additive manufacturing in some cases. It is envisioned that the entire structure of the water collection system 110 can be formed using additive manufacturing as one integrally connected piece. In some embodiments, the rigid tubes 112 can be formed by off-the-shelf pipe components, such as PVC pipes. It is also envisioned that the system 110 can be formed in part or in whole by flexible pipes. In at least some embodiments, the components 200 can be directly connected together so that at least a portion of the tubes 112 can be omitted. It is also contemplated that assembly 200 may be fluidly connected to a drainage system present in environment 10. For example, this may allow water to drain from assembly 200 to a drain defined in the flow of environment 10, if rigid pipe 112 were omitted.

[0074] Each module 200 is fluidly connected to a water collection system 110, as will be described further below. Although the modules 200 and water collection system 110 are arranged in a straight row generally aligned with the walls of the greenhouse 10 (see also Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B) arrangement, but it is contemplated that the assemblies 200 and water collection system 110 may be arranged in any number of forms or distributions. By using additive manufacturing to form the water collection system 110, the distribution of the tubes 112 and assemblies 200 in the interior space may be adjusted as appropriate. Some non-limiting examples of possible arrangements in the present technology include, but are not limited to: vertical stacking along the walls of the interior environment, arranging the assemblies 200 around or along columns in the interior environment, and / or attaching the assemblies 200 to the ceiling.

[0075] As schematically illustrated, the dehumidification system 100 also includes a controller 190 communicatively connected to the plurality of dehumidifier assemblies 200. The controller 190 is a computer-implemented device for receiving information related to local climate conditions within the greenhouse 10 from the assemblies 200, as will be described in more detail below. The specific form of the controller 190 is not particularly limited. For example, it is contemplated that a user device such as a tablet or smartphone may be used to implement the controller 190 while being wirelessly connected to one or more of the components of the system 100.

[0076] The dehumidification system 100 also includes a cold water supply 130 that is fluidly connected to the dehumidification components 200. When the dehumidification system 100 is operating, the cold water supply 130 provides cold water to each of the dehumidification components 200. As will be described in more detail below, each dehumidification component 200 uses a cold water spray to condense moisture in the air flowing through the component 200. For the purposes of this specification, "cold water" means water having a temperature typically in the range of about 0°C to about 18°C, and more preferably in the range of about 4°C to 10°C. Depending on the specific embodiment or use, the exact water temperature can vary from greater than 0 degrees Celsius up to the dew point for a specific embodiment and operating conditions.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the supply 130 includes a water reservoir 134 (schematically shown) for storing water therein. The supply 130 also includes a pump 136 fluidly connected to the water reservoir 134. The pump 136 is also fluidly connected to a water injection system 260 (described further below) of each dehumidifier assembly 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump 136 is connected to the water injection system 260 via a rigid water delivery structure 138. The pump 136 is communicatively connected to the controller 190 so that the controller 190 can control the activation of the pump 136 to deliver water to the assembly 200 or stop delivering water to the assembly 200. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the cold water supply 130 may also include one or more valves, for example to control the flow of water to one or more subgroups of the dehumidifier assembly 200. Additional components for monitoring and / or managing water flow may be included in different embodiments, including but not limited to flow meters, pressure gauges, and temperature sensors.

[0078] The water delivery structure 138 is formed of a series of rigid tubes formed by additive manufacturing. It is contemplated that the structure 138 can be insulated by applying an insulating material around the exterior of the structure 138. It is also contemplated that during the additive manufacturing production process, at least one layer of insulating material can be formed with the structure 138 to help maintain the temperature of the water flowing through the structure 138. In at least some cases, the rigid tubes 112 and / or the housing 210 of the water collection system 110 can also be insulated or formed with insulating materials. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the cold water supply 130 can be connected to the assembly 200 via a flexible tube, such as by a hose. In some other embodiments, it is contemplated that the water delivery structure 138 can be formed integrally with the water collection system 110 so that one rigid structure is connected to the assembly 200.

[0079] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the water reservoir 134 is fluidly connected to the water collection system 110 so as to recycle the water collected by the collection system 110 for reuse by the cold water supply 130. In this way, in some cases, water usage and waste can be reduced. It is also contemplated that the water reservoir 134 and / or the cold water supply 130 can be implemented by water infrastructure available in the environment (discussed below). Although the water collection system 110 is arranged to use gravity to guide the collected water toward the water reservoir 134, it is also contemplated that one or more pumps can be included in the water collection system 100 for pumping water through the system 110.

[0080] The dehumidifier system 100 also includes a chiller unit 140 operatively connected to the cold water supply 130. In the illustrated example, the chiller unit 140 is a heat pump chiller 140 disposed on the exterior of the greenhouse 10. The heat pump chiller 140 is thermally connected to the water reservoir 134 so as to discharge the heat of the water in the water reservoir 134 to the exterior of the greenhouse 10, thereby cooling the water in the water reservoir 134. In at least some embodiments, the chiller unit 140 can be implemented using a conventional refrigerant chiller (i.e., a refrigeration unit). In such embodiments, the chiller unit can be disposed inside or outside the greenhouse 10. In at least some embodiments, the chiller unit 140 can also be configured to control and adjust the temperature of the water in the water reservoir 134. In this case, for example, the controller 190 can be communicatively connected to a temperature monitor in the reservoir 134 and the chiller unit 140 so as to manage and adjust the water temperature of the cold water supply 130.

[0081] Reference Figure 3, illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a dehumidification system 105. Elements of the dehumidification system 105 that are similar to elements of the dehumidification system 100 retain the same reference numerals and generally will not be described again.

[0082] The dehumidification system 105 also includes a filter 198 for filtering the water collected from the dehumidifier assembly 200. The filter 198 is fluidly connected to the water collection system 110. As schematically illustrated, the system 105 is arranged to deliver the filtered collected water to one or more of the planting structures 20 via a tube (not shown) so that the collected water can be used to irrigate the plants 25. By forming the assembly 200, the delivery structure 138, and the tube 112 from generally plant-safe, non-toxic plastics or 3D printed metals rather than the commonly used cost-effective welding compounds that often include heavy metals, water can be supplied to the plants 25 overall without introducing unnecessary contaminants. In at least some embodiments, it is also contemplated that the filtered water can be returned to the cold water supply 130.

[0083] In the system 105, the modular cold water supply has been omitted and an infrastructure cold water supply 30 is used, specifically a cold water faucet 30. The cold water faucet 30 available in a semi-enclosed environment is fluidly connected to the delivery structure 138. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the system 105 may include additional components for controlling the flow of water from the faucet 30 to the delivery structure 138, including but not limited to valves and meters.

[0084] Reference Figures 4 to 7 , the dehumidifier assembly 200 is described and illustrated in more detail. Since the assemblies 200 are substantially the same in the system 100, only one dehumidifier assembly 200, also referred to as assembly 200, will be described.

[0085] The assembly 200 includes a housing 210 that forms the overall shape and exterior of the assembly 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 210 is formed of an upper portion 212 and a lower portion 214. The upper portion 212 and the lower portion 214 are fastened together, but it is also contemplated that the portions 212, 214 can be connected together in a different manner. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the portions 212, 214 can be integrally formed.

[0086] The housing 210 defines two oppositely disposed air inlets 220 therein for allowing air to enter the assembly 200 during operation. The inlets 220 are specifically formed in the two lateral sides of the housing upper portion 212. The housing 210 also defines an air outlet 225 therein. The outlet 225 is specifically formed in the top side of the housing upper portion 212 (see FIG. Figure 7). In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 200 also includes a fan 215 and a cone 217 disposed above the air outlet 225. The fan 215 is arranged to draw air out of the housing 210 to assist in the startup and operation of the assembly 200. The use of the fan 215 and the cone 217 will be further described below. In at least some embodiments, it is contemplated that the fan 215 and / or the cone 217 may be omitted. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, additional baffles, shutters, deflectors and / or ducts may be included in the housing 210. For example, a duct or deflector may be included to selectively draw in or exhaust air in a desired direction or position relative to the housing 210. It is also contemplated that the cone 217 may include baffles, shutters and / or deflectors.

[0087] It is contemplated that, in at least some embodiments, the relative positioning and number of inlet 220 and outlet 225 may be different. For example, the placement of the inlet / outlet may be reversed so that different embodiments of the housing may include an air inlet located in the top side of the housing and two laterally disposed air outlets. In some such embodiments, the fan 215 may also be configured to drive air into the assembly 200 through the inlet. Various other non-limiting arrangements of the inlet and outlet are contemplated, depending on the various implementation details of a given embodiment of the assembly 200. Similarly, the placement of the fan 215 is not limited to the top side of the housing 210. For example, one or more fans may be connected to the lateral side of the housing 210 to align with the inlet or outlet defined in the housing 210.

[0088] like Figure 6 As shown in Figure 5 , the housing 210 is connected to the water collection system 110 for removing water from the housing 210. The housing 210 defines at least one opening 213, specifically two openings 213 in the illustrated embodiment, in a housing lower portion 214. In this embodiment, the openings 213 are arranged to be fluidly connected to the water collection system 110 by simply aligning the openings 213 with an orifice (not shown) in one of the rigid tubes 112. In some cases, it is contemplated that the housing 210 or the housing lower portion 214 can be additively manufactured and thus integrally connected to a portion of the rigid tube 112 for connection to the water collection system 110. In some cases, it is contemplated that the housing 210 or the housing lower portion 214 can be additively manufactured together with the water collection system 110 to form an integrally formed arrangement between the housing 210 and the water collection system 110.

[0089] Assembly 200 includes a heat exchange core 230, also referred to as heat exchanger 230 or core 230, at least partially disposed in upper portion 212 of housing 210. As will be described in more detail below, heat exchange core 230 facilitates heat exchange between inflowing air and outflowing air in assembly 200.

[0090] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As can be seen in more detail in , the heat exchange core 230 has a honeycomb counterflow geometry, which is also referred to as a honeycomb convection geometry. In this embodiment, the heat exchange core 230 is formed by additive manufacturing. By using additive manufacturing, more complex geometries can be obtained than those that can be obtained by standard milling or molding, allowing high heat transfer efficiency designs to be achieved and implemented in various embodiments of the assembly 200. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger can use different geometries, including but not limited to shapes derived or inspired by bionic models (e.g., human lung structure or plant root structure).

[0091] The core 230 defines two airflow paths arranged in an overall counter-current manner therein. The first airflow path 240 directs air flowing from the outside of the assembly 200 through one of the air inlets 220 into and through the core 230, and into the space within the housing lower portion 214. The second airflow path 250 directs air flowing from the space within the housing lower portion 214 into and through the core 230, and leaves the assembly 200 via the air outlet 225. The first airflow path 240, also referred to as the inflow airflow path 240, is fluidly connected to the air inlet 220 at an input end 242 of the first airflow path 240. The second airflow path 250, also referred to as the outflow airflow path 250, is fluidly connected to the air outlet 225 at an output end 254 of the second airflow path 250. The fan 215 is arranged to draw air from the interior of the housing 210 via the second airflow path 250 when in operation. Different fan and airflow arrangements will be described in addition below.

[0092] Since the core 230 has a honeycomb counterflow geometry with a plurality of channels for air flowing therethrough, the first airflow path 240 is formed by the first plurality of channels 236 defined through the heat exchange core 230, and the second airflow path 250 is formed by the second plurality of channels 238 defined through the core 230 (see Fig. 9 ).

[0093] Although the housing 210 and the heat exchange core 230 are generally rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, this is only an example and is not meant to be limiting. Although the housing 210 is generally shaped to fit close to the core 230 so as to avoid air bypassing the core 230 without passing through the airflow paths 240, 250, the core 230 can be manufactured in various forms.

[0094] Assembly 200 also includes Figure 5 2 and 3. The water injection system 260 is schematically illustrated in the drawings and is at least partially disposed in the housing lower portion 214. The water injection system 260 is fluidly connected to the cold water supply 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the water injection system 260 includes a rigid tube 262 that is fluidly and integrally connected to the water delivery structure 138. The rigid tube 262 extends through the housing 210, however it is contemplated that the tube 262 only partially extends into the interior of the housing 210.

[0095] The water injection system 260 is arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end 244 of the first airflow path 240 to condense moisture in the air flowing from the first airflow path 240 when the assembly 200 is in operation. The water injection system 260 includes at least one injection nozzle 264, which is at least partially disposed in the housing 210 for generating water droplets. In the present embodiment, the nozzle 264 is specifically a vortex atomizing nozzle 264, which is disposed in a central position of the housing 210 and vertically below the core 230. It is contemplated that different nozzle types or forms may be used in different embodiments. In some cases, more than one nozzle 264 may be included in the assembly 200. It is also contemplated that during additive manufacturing, the tube 262 and / or one or more nozzles may be formed directly with the housing 210.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 264 is positioned to eject water droplets (also referred to herein as mist) in a generally downward direction parallel to (downstream) the air flowing from the first airflow path 240. In some embodiments, the nozzle 264 can be arranged to eject water droplets anti-parallel to the air flow (countercurrent arrangement) and / or orthogonal to the air flow (i.e., generally horizontal in this configuration). The water injection system 260 and the nozzle 264 are configured to produce water droplets in the range of about 50 microns in diameter to about 100 microns in diameter. In some embodiments, a different range of droplet sizes can be produced.

[0097] The housing 210 and the heat exchange core 230 are arranged so that at least some of the air downstream of the water injection system 260 flows into the input end 252 of the second airflow path 250. To help direct the airflow around the water injection system 260, the housing 210 includes one or more partition walls 272 that extend generally vertically through a portion of the housing 210.

[0098] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing lower portion 214 includes three walls 272 disposed generally below the water injection system 260 to help direct the airflow from the first airflow path 240 to the second airflow path 250. In at least some embodiments, the walls 272 also help prevent water droplets from re-contacting the air flowing into the second airflow path 250. The air outlet 244 and the injection nozzle 264 of the first airflow path 240 are disposed on the inner side of the two outermost partition walls 272, while the air inlet 252 of the second airflow path 250 is disposed on the outer side of the outermost partition wall 272.

[0099] like Figure 5 2, each assembly 200 further includes a control board 290. In the present embodiment, the control board 290 is a circuit board disposed on the side of the housing 210, however it is contemplated that the sensing and management of the control board 290 may be provided by a different computer-implemented device. The control board 290 includes an air temperature sensor 292 for sensing the ambient air temperature at a given dehumidifier assembly 200. The control board 290 also includes an air humidity sensor 294 for sensing the ambient air humidity at a given dehumidifier assembly 200. It is contemplated that the air temperature sensor 292 and the air humidity sensor 294 may be separate from the control board 290, however in some embodiments, the air temperature sensor 292 and the air humidity sensor 294 may be communicatively connected to the control board 290. The control board 290 also includes a water temperature sensor 296 that is in thermal contact with the water injection system 260 for sensing the temperature of the water flowing through the water injection system 260. In at least some embodiments, a water temperature sensor 296 may be disposed in the water injection system 260 and communicatively coupled to the control board 290. The control board 290 is configured to use the information determined by the sensors 292, 294, 296 to determine local humidity conditions and determine a required dehumidification rate for the dehumidifier assembly 200 to bring the local humidity conditions into compliance with predetermined desired conditions or to bring the local humidity conditions into compliance with indicated conditions received from the controller 190. In at least some embodiments, additional water temperature sensors, air temperature sensors, and / or humidity sensors may be included and operatively coupled to the control board 290. In some such cases, these additional sensors may be used to monitor the performance of the assembly 200, determine local energy usage, and / or determine other performance data.

[0100] The control board 290 is also operatively connected to the fan 215 and the nozzle 264 (specifically, the valve (not shown) of the nozzle 264) to control the activation and operation of the fan 215 and the nozzle 264, so that the dehumidification assembly 200 changes the local humidity conditions in the area of ​​the greenhouse 10 surrounding a given dehumidifier assembly 200. For example, in some embodiments, the control board 290 can control the speed and timing of the operation of the fan 215. In some cases, the control board 290 can additionally or alternatively control the opening and closing of the valve of the nozzle 264 to start or stop the delivery of water droplets to the air flowing through the housing 210.

[0101] The control board 290 is also communicatively connected to the controller 190. In this way, based on different local conditions surrounding one or more of the components 200, local conditions from each component 200 can be compared and system-level control of the system 100 can be applied. For example, the controller 190 can determine that the water temperature of the cold water supply 160 should be modified. In some cases, the determination of the temperature adjustment can be based on information collected from one or more of the dehumidifier components 200. In some embodiments, the controller 190 can provide a dehumidification indication to one or more of the dehumidifier components 200, such as conveying a predetermined humidity condition associated with a given one or more components 200. In at least some cases, it is contemplated that a user of the system 100 can provide or modify desired conditions in one or more sub-areas of the greenhouse 10 through the controller 190.

[0102] In at least some embodiments, it is contemplated that the controller 190 may be omitted from the system 100. In some such cases, the operations described herein as being performed by the controller 190 may be performed by one or more of the control boards 290. For example, one assembly 200 may have a "primary" control board that is communicatively connected to the remaining "secondary" control boards. It is also contemplated that the controller 190 and / or one or more of the control boards 290 may be communicatively connected to additional external sensors, including, but not limited to, CO2 sensors, solar radiation sensors, light level sensors, and temperature sensors external to the environment 10.

[0103] Reference Fig.10 , illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a dehumidifier assembly 300. Elements of the dehumidifier assembly 300 that are similar to elements of the dehumidifier assembly 200 retain the same reference numerals and generally will not be described again.

[0104] Different structures are contemplated in the air flow area downstream of the water injection system 260, for example, in place of the wall 272 of the assembly 200. In the illustrated dehumidifier assembly 300, a secondary heat exchange core 330 is disposed in the lower portion of the housing 210, wherein the water injection system 260 is disposed in a generally central location in the assembly 300, vertically between the two cores 230, 330. The secondary core 330 provides a plurality of surfaces for assisting in condensing moisture in the air flowing downstream of the water injection system 260. Additionally, in at least some cases, the secondary heat exchange core 330 can be used to assist in the heat exchange efficiency of the assembly 200. As will be described below, it is also contemplated that alternative or additional structures, such as textured surfaces, can be used to assist in collecting condensed moisture from the air following the atomizing portion of the system 260.

[0105] Reference Fig.11 , illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a dehumidifier assembly 400. Elements of the dehumidifier assembly 400 that are similar to elements of the dehumidifier assembly 200 retain the same reference numerals and generally will not be described again.

[0106] Although the above-mentioned assemblies 200, 300 are arranged generally vertically as shown, the dehumidifier assembly 400 is a non-limiting example of an assembly with different orientations. The assembly 400 has a generally horizontal housing 410, which is arranged at a slight angle to the true horizontal line (represented by the horizontal line 99). In the illustrated arrangement, the inflow airflow path 440 flows generally from the air inlet 420 from the right to the left. The outflow airflow path 450 flows generally from the left to the right to the air outlet 425. By arranging at a slight angle, the water extracted from the humid air flowing into the assembly 400 is urged to flow toward the water collection opening 413 along the inner surface of the housing 410. It should be noted that it is envisioned to arrange the assembly at an angle different from the vertical or generally horizontal without specific limitation. It is also envisioned that the housing 410 can be arranged parallel to the horizontal line, wherein at least one wall of the housing 410 is formed to allow the collected water to be properly discharged.

[0107] Back to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , and refer to Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B , the overall operation of the dehumidification system 100 and its dehumidifier assembly 200 will be described in more detail. The assemblies 300, 400 and system 105 operate similarly mutatis mutandis and will not be described separately.

[0108] At each dehumidifier assembly 200 , the housing 210 , heat exchange core 230 , and water injection system 260 are arranged so that warm, humid air enters the assembly 200 and drier and at least partially warm air exits the assembly 200 when the assembly 200 is in operation.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, operation of the assembly 200 begins by activating the fan 215 to drive air out of the assembly housing 210, thereby creating a suction force within the housing 210 to draw in ambient air around the assembly 200. The warm, humid air flows into the air inlet 220 and through the heat exchange core 230 into the first airflow path 240.

[0110] In the heat exchange core 230 , heat is transferred from the air flowing through the first air flow path 240 to the air flowing through the second air flow path 250 , thereby cooling the air flowing through the first air flow path 240 .

[0111] Then, the cooled moist air leaves the core 230 from the outlet end 244 of the first airflow path 240 and flows into the lower portion of the housing 210. Then, the cooled air is affected by water droplets sprayed from the water spray system 260.

[0112] The cold water droplets provided by the water injection system 260 are used to help promote the condensation of moisture in the air in at least two ways. First, the cold water further cools the air toward the condensation point (dew point), and the air is cooled by first passing through the heat exchange core 230 to lose heat. Secondly, the water droplets suspended in the air provide a surface area where condensation may occur. As noted above, in at least some embodiments, the temperature of the water supplied to the water injection system 260 can be adjusted by the cold water supply 130. By adjusting the water temperature at the cold water supply 130, the dehumidification efficiency of each component 200 can be changed. In this embodiment, within certain temperature ranges, linearly reducing the water temperature generally results in a linear increase in the dehumidification rate (in terms of several liters of water per hour). It is envisioned that the specific relationship between temperature and dehumidification efficiency varies according to the specific embodiment.

[0113] Then, the moisture condensed from the air downstream of the water injection system 260 generally falls from the air and drips into the lower portion of the housing 210, and flows out of the opening 213 to be collected by the water collection system 110. It is noted that at least some of the water injected in the form of water droplets also falls to the bottom portion of the housing 210 and is collected by the water collection system 110.

[0114] Subsequently, the cooled and dehumidified air flows into the input end 252 of the second airflow path 250 to flow back into and through the heat exchange core 230. The air flowing through the second airflow path 250 receives heat from the air flowing through the first airflow path 240 via the heat exchange core 230.

[0115] Therefore, the dehumidified air is reheated by the heat already present in the air, and more specifically by the heat removed from the humid inflow air, which in turn needs to be cooled as described above. In this way, the heat exchange core 230 provides passive cooling of the humid air and reheating of the dehumidified air.

[0116] The reheated and dehumidified air eventually flows out of the air outlet 225 of the housing 210 and back into the environment 10. In this embodiment, the fan 215 and the cone 217 also help guide the dehumidified air away from the inlet 220 and into the environment 10. Although the channels for the inflow airflow path 240 and the outflow airflow path 250 in the air exchange core 230 are positioned close to each other, the cone 217 drives the outflow air away from the air inlet 220 of the housing 210 to prevent the already processed (dehumidified) air from being immediately recaptured by the assembly 200.

[0117] In at least some embodiments, it is contemplated that cone 217, or housing 210 with cone 217 omitted, can be connected to an air duct system (not shown) of environment 10. For example, system 100 can include a conduit fluidly connecting air inlet 220 or air outlet 225 to a portion of the air duct system.

[0118] It is noted that in addition to dehumidification, the use of cold water spray / atomization of the water spray system 260 also provides some air filtering capabilities. The contact of the sprayed water droplets with airborne pollutants or particles, sometimes referred to as "air washing", causes at least some of the particles to be captured in the water droplets, ultimately falling to the bottom of the housing 210, thereby removing these impurities from the air. Airborne pollutants, debris, or suspended airborne particles that can be removed by air washing of the water spray system 260 may include, but are not limited to, dust, pollen, spores, fungi, and smoke particles. It is contemplated that the size of the water droplets from the water spray system 260 can be designed, at least in part, for the efficiency of removing unwanted particles from the air flowing through the assembly 200. In some cases, air filtration by air washing can be improved by reducing the water droplet size.

[0119] As described above, additional cooling is caused by water droplets provided by the cold water supply 130 via the water injection system 260. Since each component 200 is connected to a centralized cold water supply 130, it is not necessary to include a heat pump or refrigeration device in each individual component 200 to transfer heat away or to position a heat pump or refrigeration device near each individual component 200 to transfer heat away. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the cold water supply 130 itself can be cooled by a heat pump or refrigeration system. However, this is not particularly necessary, and there is no need to incorporate or operatively connect a heat pump or refrigeration system to any component 200. This allows the system 100 to be formed by many relatively small components 200, each of which is generally quite cost-effective.

[0120] The present technology can also provide additional local control of humidity conditions by providing relatively small dehumidification assemblies 200 that are operatively connected to a central cold water supply 130. The dehumidification assemblies 200 are located at various points around the greenhouse 10, rather than having one large dehumidification unit in a central location as is often the case in the prior art. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B As further illustrated in FIG. 1 , the assemblies 200 are arranged in four rows along the length of the greenhouse 10, wherein the rows of planting structures 20, supporting plants 25, extend in the same direction as the rows of assemblies 200. Air is dehumidified and circulated through the greenhouse by the distribution of the assemblies 200, wherein the distribution and placement of the assemblies 200 are designed around the layout of the planting structures 20. Fig. 12B As shown in FIG. 1 , humid air (schematically illustrated in dashed lines) flows through a portion of the greenhouse 10 , is processed by a subset of the dehumidifier assemblies 200 , and is returned to the greenhouse 10 as warm, dry air to be circulated again (schematically illustrated in solid lines).

[0121] As described above, local control of the fans 215 and / or water droplet delivery by the water injection system 260 by the control panel 290 of each module 200 can also be used to provide local control of humidity conditions. Therefore, the system 100 also provides the possibility of creating a microclimate within a given environment 10. Because most of the system 100 is centralized (water supply, processing of collected water), relatively small modules 200 can also be dispersed in the environment 10 according to the desired arrangement of microclimate control.

[0122] In at least some embodiments and as briefly mentioned above, it is also contemplated that the controller 190 may be configured to selectively control and communicate with each control panel 290 to further provide climate zones or microclimates at different points in the environment 10. For example, the controller 190 may selectively enable the fans 215 of one or more of the components 200 based on the overall humidity level, humidity conditions in a selected portion of the environment 10, and / or based on local readings of one or more of the control panels 290. In at least some embodiments, the controller 190 and / or the control panel 290 may be configured to provide predetermined humidity conditions based on various conditions, including, but not limited to: the type of plants being grown, the maturity of the plants, the humidity required for additional air handling, the seasonal conditions to be simulated, and the cost of energy. The controller 190 may also determine the overall humidity trend based on information received from one or more control panels 290, and then, for example, locally enable one or more selected components 200 to change the overall climate / humidity profile of the environment 10.

[0123] Depending on the placement of the dehumidifier assembly 200 in the environment and the form and size of the internal environment, the circulation pattern of the moist and dry air may vary. Fig.13A and Fig. 13B As can be seen in another non-limiting example of a dehumidification system 107 disposed in a dome-shaped greenhouse 11, shown in FIG.

[0124] Fig.14 and Fig.15 Yet another embodiment of a dehumidifier system 500 having a dehumidifier assembly 550 according to the present technology is illustrated in FIG. Elements of the dehumidifier assembly 550 that are similar to elements of the dehumidifier assembly 200 will generally not be described again.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, system 500 is formed of two dehumidifier structures 510 and water collection structures 505, each described in more detail below. It is contemplated that different embodiments of the dehumidifier system may include more or fewer dehumidifier structures and water collection structures, including in some cases no water collection structure.

[0126] The system 500 includes a frame 501 that supports a dehumidifier structure 510 and a water collection structure 505. Although the structures 510, 505 are arranged vertically in the illustrated embodiment, different arrangements are also contemplated. Fig.15, in at least some embodiments or installations, the system 500 is arranged to be connected to an air duct 499 of a structure (such as a greenhouse), and the air duct 499 is used to deliver humidified air to the system 500 for dehumidification of the humidified air. As will be described below, it is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the duct 499 can receive dehumidified air from the system 500. It is also contemplated that the system 500 can be stand-alone, i.e., not connected to any air duct, wherein the system 500 receives humidified air and delivers the dehumidified air away from the surrounding environment of the system 500.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the water collection structure 505 is specifically a barrel 505, but different containers are also envisioned. System 500 includes a water collection pipe 503 that connects the water collection structure 505 fluid to the dehumidifier structure 510. Pipeline 503 and water collection structure 505 collect water from the dehumidifier structure 510, the water including water from atomization and water extracted from air humidity. Although not explicitly shown, the water collection structure 505 will usually be connected to a water recovery and / drainage system to discharge the water in the structure 505. It is also envisioned that the water collection structure 505 can be connected to a water collection system, such as a water collection system 110, for removing water from the system 500. It is also envisioned that, in some cases, the structure 505 can be fluidly connected to a drainage system to discharge water. According to this embodiment, the structure 505 can be emptied (emptied) continuously, regularly and / or as needed.

[0128] See also Figures 16 to 18 , illustrates a dehumidifier structure 510 in more detail. The structure 510 includes a barrel 506 similar to the water collection barrel 505, however, a variety of closure structures may be used to form the structure 510. Fig.18 As schematically shown in FIG. 5 , the barrel 506 defines an opening 507 therein for receiving the dehumidifier assembly 550 .

[0129] In the illustrated example, each dehumidifier structure 510 includes three dehumidifier assemblies 550. It is contemplated that, depending on the embodiment, the dehumidifier structure 510 may have more or fewer dehumidifier assemblies 550. It is also contemplated that different dehumidifier structures 510 of the same system 500 may have different numbers of dehumidifier assemblies 550.

[0130] See also Figures 19 to 21 , dehumidifier assembly 550 is described in more detail. Since the assemblies 550 are substantially the same in system 500, only one dehumidifier assembly 550, also referred to as assembly 550, will be described.

[0131] The assembly 550 includes a housing 552 that forms the overall shape and exterior of the assembly 550. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 552 is formed by an upper portion 554, a lower portion 556, and a contour portion 558. The upper portion 554 is divided into two portions extending parallel to each other, but it is contemplated that the upper portion 554 can be one continuous portion. The lower portion 556 is similarly divided into two portions, but in some embodiments, the lower portion 556 can be one continuous portion that is integrally connected.

[0132] Profile portion 558 is configured and arranged to be connected to barrel 506. Profile portion 558 is shaped specifically to close opening 507 so that air flowing into and out of barrel 506 must pass through dehumidifier assembly 550. Although each dehumidifier assembly 550 has a separate profile portion 558 (where portions 558 of adjacent dehumidifier assemblies 500 abut), it is contemplated that one profile portion sized to close opening 507 may be used, with the remainder of multiple dehumidifier assemblies 550 connected to the one profile portion.

[0133] The upper portion 554 and the lower portion 556 are secured together via the contour portion 558, but it is contemplated that the portions 554, 556, 558 may be connected together in a different manner. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the portions 554, 556, 558 may be integrally formed.

[0134] The upper housing portion 554 defines two air inlets 560 therein, one on each lateral member of the upper housing portion 554. The inlet 560 is specifically formed in the top side of the upper housing portion 554 for receiving air from the duct 499. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 550 also includes two fans 565, each fan being disposed above a corresponding one of the air inlets 560. In some cases, it is also contemplated that an air inlet cone may be connected above one or both fans 565 in place of the duct 499. The fans 560 are arranged to draw air into the housing 552 to assist in the startup and operation of the assembly 550.

[0135] The upper housing portion 554 defines four external air outlets 562 therein for air to flow out of the assembly 550 and the barrel 506 during operation. The outlets 562 are specifically formed in two lateral sides of the upper housing portion 554. The assembly 550 also includes a second pair of fans 570 for driving air from the interior of the barrel 506 toward the outlets 562. The fans 570 are disposed in the lower housing portion 556, however it is contemplated that the fans 570 may be disposed in a portion of the housing 552 that is located outside the barrel 506.

[0136] The profile portion 558 defines therein four internal air outlets 559 for the outflow of air from the assembly 550 to the interior of the barrel 506 during operation. The outlets 559 are specifically formed in two lateral sides of the profile portion 558.

[0137] The assembly 550 also includes a textured surface 575 disposed in the lower member of the housing lower portion 556. The textured surface 575 is arranged to provide a condensation surface to aid in condensing moisture from air flowing through the textured surface. Various surface forms are contemplated, including but not limited to three-dimensional volumes (such as pyramidal or hemispherical protrusions) extending inwardly from a vertically disposed wall.

[0138] The use of fans 565, 570, textured surface 575, and the airflow patterns through inlet 560 and outlets 562, 559 are further described below.

[0139] In at least some embodiments, it is contemplated that fan 565 or fan 570 may be omitted. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, additional baffles, shutters, deflectors, and / or ducts may be included in housing 552. For example, a deflector may be included to selectively draw in or exhaust air in a desired direction or position relative to housing 552.

[0140] The assembly 550 includes two heat exchange cores 590, also referred to as cores 590, which are at least partially disposed in the upper portion 554 of the housing 552. Similar to the heat exchange cores 230 described above, the heat exchange cores 590 facilitate heat exchange between inflowing air and outflowing air in the assembly 550. In embodiments where the housing upper portion 554 is not divided into two flow sections, it is contemplated that the assembly 550 may include only one core 590.

[0141] like Fig. 22 As shown in more detail in FIG. 5 , the heat exchange core 590 has a honeycomb counterflow geometry similar to the heat exchange core 230, which is also referred to as a honeycomb convection geometry. In this embodiment, the heat exchange core 590 is formed by additive manufacturing. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger can use different geometries, including but not limited to shapes derived or inspired by biomimetic models (e.g., human lung structure or plant root structure).

[0142] Similar to core 230, cores 590 each define two integrally counter-currently arranged airflow paths therein for air to be dehumidified by passage through dehumidifier structure 510. Fig.215, the first airflow path 582 directs air flowing from the outside of the dehumidifier structure 510 through the fan 565 and one of the air inlets 560, into and through the corresponding core 590, and exits from one of the two internal outlets 559 into the interior space of the barrel 506. The second airflow path 584 directs air flowing from the space inside the barrel 506 into and through the textured surface 575, through one of the fans 570, through the housing lower portion 556, into and through the core 590, and exits the dehumidifier structure 510 via one of the air outlets 563. The fan 565 is arranged to draw air from the outside of the dehumidifier structure 510 via the first airflow path 582 when in operation. The fan 570 is arranged to draw air from the inside of the barrel 506 through the textured surface 575 into the housing 552 via the second airflow path 584. It is noted that only one of the various paths 582, 584 is illustrated. For example, the input path 582 may exit the housing 552 through an outlet 559 that is different from the outlet illustrated. Similarly, the output path 584 may exit through an outlet 562 that is different from the outlet shown in the non-limiting illustration. It is generally contemplated that during operation of the dehumidifier structure 510, air will flow along any or all of the different possible paths 582, 584.

[0143] Although the shell 552 and the heat exchange core 590 are generally rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, this is only an example and is not meant to be limiting. Although the shell 552 is generally shaped to fit close to the core 590 so as to avoid air bypassing the core 590 without passing through the airflow paths 582, 584, the core 590 can be manufactured in various forms.

[0144] like Fig.18 and Fig.21 Schematically illustrated in FIG, the dehumidifier structure 510 also includes a water injection system 508 at least partially disposed in the barrel 506, which is similar to the water injection system 260 described above. The water injection system 508 is fluidly connected to the cold water supply 130, but different embodiments of the cold water supply are envisioned. The water injection system 508 is arranged to deliver water droplets when the dehumidifier structure 510 is in operation to condense moisture in the air flowing from the first airflow path 582. The water injection system 260 includes at least two injection nozzles 509, which are at least partially disposed in the barrel 506 for forming water droplets from the cold water supply 130, and the at least two injection nozzles 509 are specifically disposed on opposite sides of the lower portion 556 of the housing. It should be noted that, compared with the assembly 200, the nozzle 509 is not disposed in the housing 552.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 509 is positioned to spray water droplets (also referred to herein as mist) downstream of the core 590 in a manner that is substantially orthogonal to the air flowing out of the first airflow path 582. In some embodiments, the nozzle 509 can be arranged to spray water droplets in a manner antiparallel to the air flow (countercurrent arrangement) and / or spray water droplets in parallel to the air flow (i.e., downstream arrangement). After being exposed to the mist from the nozzle 509, the air flows through the textured surface 575 to further help condense the moisture in the air. During the atomization process or when in contact with the textured surface 575, the water condensed from the air flow then falls to the bottom of the internal volume of the barrel 506. The collected water then flows to the water collection structure 505 via the pipe 503.

[0146] The air then flows through the housing 552, now at least partially dehumidified by the atomization process and contacts the textured surface 575. The fan 570 pulls the air through the textured surface 575 and from the textured surface 575 into the second airflow path 584, where the air then passes through the core 590 and exits from the outlet 562. Depending on the embodiment, it is contemplated that the fan 565 and / or the fan 570 may be omitted. For example, in some cases, the air flow through the duct 499 may serve as the driving force for the airflow through the dehumidifier structure 510.

[0147] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the operation of the fan 565 may be reversed, thereby altering the airflow path through the dehumidifier structure 510. Fig.23 565, wherein the flow direction of the fan 565 has been reversed. Although the flow direction of the fan 570 may be modified in some embodiments, it is noted that additional modifications to the arrangement of certain components may also need to be modified, such as the textured surface 575 typically needing to be disposed after (downstream of) the nozzle 509.

[0148] As the fan 565 draws air from the housing 552, the direction of airflow through the "inlet" 560 and the "outlet" 562 is reversed (i.e., air flows into the "outlet" 562 and out of the "inlet" 560); therefore, the inlet / outlet 560, 562 may be collectively referred to as openings 560, 562. The first airflow path 586 directs air flowing from the exterior of the dehumidifier structure 510 into one of the openings 562, through the corresponding core 590, and out of one of the two interior outlets 559, into the interior volume of the barrel 506. The second airflow path 588 directs air from the space inside the barrel 506 into the textured surface 575, through the textured surface 575, through one of the fans 570, through the housing lower portion 556, into and through the core 590, and out of the dehumidifier structure 510 via one of the openings 560 and one of the fans 565 corresponding to the one opening. The fan 570 is arranged to draw air from the interior of the barrel 506 through the textured surface 575 via the second airflow path 584 into the housing 552 , and the fan 565 further draws air from the housing 552 to be exhausted to the surrounding of the dehumidifier structure 510 .

[0149] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. Therefore, the scope of the present technology is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dehumidifier assembly for humidity management in an internal environment, the assembly include: a housing defining at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet; A heat exchange core, the heat exchange core being at least partially disposed in the shell, the heat exchange core defining in the heat exchange core: a first air flow path fluidly connected to the at least one air inlet at an input end of the first air flow path; as well as a second air flow path fluidly connected to the at least one air outlet at an output end of the second air flow path; as well as a water injection system at least partially disposed in the housing, the water injection system being configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water supply, the water injection system being arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end of the first airflow path to condense moisture from air flowing from the first airflow path when the assembly is in use, The housing and the heat exchange core are arranged so that at least some air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second air flow path.

2. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 1, in, The heat exchange core is formed by additive manufacturing.

3. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 1 or 2, in: The heat exchange core has a honeycomb counter-flow geometry; The first airflow path is formed by a first plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core; and The second air flow path is formed by a second plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core.

4. The dehumidifier assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The housing is configured to be connected to a water collection system to remove water from the housing.

5. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 4, in, The housing defines at least one opening in a lower portion of the housing, the at least one opening being arranged to be fluidly connected to the water collection system.

6. The dehumidifier assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in, The water injection system includes at least one injection nozzle at least partially disposed in the housing.

7. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 6, in: The housing includes at least one dividing wall extending generally vertically through a portion of the housing; The air outlet of the first airflow path and the at least one injection nozzle are disposed on a first side portion of the at least one partition wall; and The air inlet of the second air flow path is disposed on a second side portion of the at least one partition wall.

8. A dehumidifier assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a fan provided in the housing, the fan being arranged, in use, to draw air from the interior of the housing through the second air flow path.

9. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 1, in, The housing, the heat exchange core and the water injection system are arranged so that when the device is in use: warm, moist air flows into the at least one air inlet and into the first air flow path, heat is transferred from the air flowing through the first air flow path to the air flowing through the second air flow path, thereby cooling the air flowing through the first air flow path; The cooled moist air flows out from the first air flow path and is affected by the mist sprayed from the water spray system, The mist further cools the air flowing through the water spray system and causes moisture in the air to condense; The cooled and dehumidified air flows into the input end of the second air flow path to flow through the heat exchange core, The air flowing through the second airflow path receives heat from the air flowing through the first airflow path via the heat exchange core; and The air that has been heated and dehumidified again flows out from the at least one air outlet of the housing.

10. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 1, in, At least a majority of the heat exchange core is disposed vertically above the water injection system.

11. The dehumidifier assembly according to claim 1, in: The heat exchange core is a first heat exchange core disposed in an upper portion of the housing; and The first heat exchange portion is vertically disposed above the water injection system; and Also included is a second heat exchange core disposed in a lower portion of the housing, the second heat exchange core being disposed below the water injection system.

12. A dehumidification system for humidity management in an internal environment, the system include: A plurality of dehumidifier assemblies, each dehumidifier assembly comprising: a housing defining at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet; A heat exchange core, the heat exchange core is arranged in the shell, and the heat exchange core is defined in the heat exchange core: a first air flow path fluidly connected to the at least one air inlet at an input end of the first air flow path; and a second air flow path fluidly connected to the at least one air outlet at an output end of the second air flow path; and a water injection system disposed at least partially in the housing, the water injection system being arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end of the first airflow path to condense moisture from air flowing from the first airflow path when the assembly is in use, The water injection system is configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water supply, the housing and the heat exchange core are arranged so that at least some air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second airflow path; and A water collection system is fluidly connected to each dehumidifier assembly for receiving water therefrom.

13. The dehumidification system of claim 12, further comprising a cold water supply fluidly connected to the water spray system of each dehumidifier assembly.

14. The dehumidification system according to claim 13, in, The cold water supply unit comprises: water reservoir; and A pump is fluidly connected to the water reservoir and the water injection system of each dehumidifier assembly.

15. The dehumidification system of claim 14, further comprising a chiller unit operatively connected to the water reservoir for cooling water in the water reservoir during operation of the system.

16. The dehumidification system according to claim 15, in, The refrigerator unit is disposed outside the internal environment.

17. The dehumidification system according to claim 16, in, The water collection system is fluidly connected to the water reservoir such that water collected from the plurality of dehumidifier assemblies is provided to the cold water supply for reuse during operation of the system.

18. The dehumidification system according to claim 12, in, The system is arranged to deliver water collected by the water collection system to at least one planting structure.

19. The dehumidification system according to claim 12, in, The water collection system is formed from a plurality of rigid tubes.

20. The dehumidification system according to claim 19, in, The plurality of rigid tubes are formed by additive manufacturing.

21. The dehumidification system of claim 12, further comprising a water filter fluidly connected to the water collection system for filtering the collected water.

22. A dehumidifier structure for humidity management in an internal environment, the assembly include: container; A dehumidifier assembly, the dehumidifier assembly being partially disposed in the container, the dehumidifier assembly comprising: a housing defining at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet; and A heat exchange core, the heat exchange core being at least partially disposed in the shell, the heat exchange core defining in the heat exchange core: a first air flow path fluidly connected to the at least one air inlet at an input end of the first air flow path; and a second air flow path fluidly connected to the at least one air outlet at an output end of the second air flow path; and a water injection system disposed at least partially in the container, the water injection system being configured to be fluidly connected to a cold water supply, the water injection system being arranged to deliver water droplets at least partially downstream of the output end of the first airflow path to condense moisture from air flowing from the first airflow path when the assembly is in use, The housing and the heat exchange core are arranged so that at least some air downstream of the water injection system flows into the input end of the second air flow path.

23. The dehumidifier structure according to claim 22, in, The heat exchange core is formed by additive manufacturing.

24. The dehumidifier structure according to claim 22 or 23, in: The heat exchange core has a honeycomb counter-flow geometry; The first airflow path is formed by a first plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core; and The second air flow path is formed by a second plurality of channels defined through the heat exchange core.

25. A dehumidifier structure according to any one of claims 22 to 24, in, The container is configured to be connected to a water collection system to remove water from the housing.

26. A dehumidifier structure according to any one of claims 22 to 25, in, The water injection system includes at least one injection nozzle at least partially disposed within the vessel.

27. A dehumidifier arrangement according to any one of claims 22 to 26, further comprising at least one fan provided in the housing, the fan being arranged, in use, to draw air from the interior of the container into the second air flow path.

28. The dehumidifier structure according to claim 22, in, The container, the housing, the heat exchange core and the water injection system are arranged so that when the device is in use: warm, moist air flows into the at least one air inlet and into the first air flow path, heat is transferred from the air flowing through the first air flow path to the air flowing through the second air flow path, thereby cooling the air flowing through the first air flow path; The cooled moist air flows out from the first air flow path and is affected by the mist sprayed from the water spray system, The mist further cools the air flowing through the water spray system and causes moisture in the air to condense; The cooled and dehumidified air flows into the input end of the second air flow path to flow through the heat exchange core, The air flowing through the second airflow path receives heat from the air flowing through the first airflow path via the heat exchange core; and The air that has been heated and dehumidified again flows out from the at least one air outlet of the housing.

29. A dehumidifier system, include: at least one dehumidifier structure according to any one of claims 22 to 28; as well as At least one water collecting structure is fluidly connected to the water collecting structure.

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