Carbon dioxide recovery system

Abstract

This carbon dioxide recovery system is provided with: a plurality of outdoor units of an air conditioning system; an adsorbent that adsorbs carbon dioxide; a plurality of air-permeable first containers which are disposed at positions to which at least a portion of the airflow generated by the plurality of outdoor units is blown, and which are capable of accommodating an adsorbent therein; a separation device that is connected to the plurality of first containers and separates carbon dioxide from the adsorbent having carbon dioxide adsorbed thereon; and a recovery device that recovers the carbon dioxide separated by the separation devices, the number of the plurality of first containers being greater than the number of the separation devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to carbon dioxide recovery systems. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a device for removing carbon dioxide from the air using an adsorbent capable of adsorbing carbon dioxide.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-131166 Summary of the Invention

[0005] There is a demand for improving the recovery efficiency of carbon dioxide using adsorbents.

[0006] In view of the above situation, the present disclosure aims to provide a carbon dioxide recovery system capable of improving the recovery efficiency of carbon dioxide.

[0007] One form of the carbon dioxide recovery system involved in the present disclosure comprises: multiple outdoor units of an air conditioning system; an adsorbent that adsorbs carbon dioxide; multiple first containers with ventilation, which are arranged at positions where at least a portion of the airflow generated by the multiple outdoor units blows to, and can accommodate the adsorbent inside; a separation device connected to the multiple first containers, which separates carbon dioxide from the adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide; and a recovery device that recovers the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device, and the number of the multiple first containers is greater than the number of the separation devices.

[0008] Another form of the carbon dioxide recovery system involved in the present disclosure comprises: multiple outdoor units of an air conditioning system; an adsorbent that adsorbs carbon dioxide; a breathable container that is arranged above the multiple outdoor units and can accommodate the adsorbent inside; a separation device that is connected to the container and separates carbon dioxide from the adsorbent that adsorbs carbon dioxide; and a recovery device that recovers the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device, and the separation device is arranged above the recovery device.

[0009] According to the present disclosure, a carbon dioxide recovery system capable of improving the recovery efficiency of carbon dioxide can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the carbon dioxide recovery system according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a plan view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2AA cross-section diagram.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the second embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a plan view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the second embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the third embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the third embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of a carbon dioxide recovery system according to a fourth embodiment.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a plan view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to a fourth embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the fifth embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the sixth embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a top view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system involved in the seventh embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a side view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to the seventh embodiment.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a side view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system according to a modified example of the seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and any changes can be made within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure.

[0027] Implementation method 1.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 It is a top view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system 1 . Figure 3 yes Figure 2 AA cross-section diagram.

[0029] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 recovers carbon dioxide from the air. The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 is installed, for example, on the roof of a building (such as a mansion or an apartment building). Alternatively, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1 can be installed in an open space next to a building, in the atrium of an apartment building, or in a desert.

[0030] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 includes a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, adsorbents, a plurality of first containers 20 , first adsorbent pipes 22 , a separation device 31 , a recovery device 32 , and a renewable energy device 40 .

[0031] An air conditioning system conditions the air inside a building (indoors). In this embodiment, the air conditioning system is, for example, a multi-type air conditioner for a building. The air conditioning system includes a plurality of outdoor units 10 located outdoors and a plurality of indoor units (not shown) located indoors. In the air conditioning system, a refrigerant circulates between the outdoor units 10 and the indoor units.

[0032] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the outdoor unit 10 includes a housing 11, a heat exchanger 12, and a blower 13 (see Figure 3 ).

[0033] The housing 11 is a rectangular parallelepiped having four side surfaces, a top surface, and a bottom surface. An air outlet 14 is formed on the top surface of the housing 11. An air inlet 15 is formed on three of the four side surfaces of the housing 11.

[0034] The heat exchanger 12 is disposed inside the housing 11. The heat exchanger 12 exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the outside air (air). The heat exchanger 12 has a substantially U-shape when viewed from above. The heat exchanger 12 is disposed along the three side surfaces of the housing 11 where the suction port 15 is formed.

[0035] The blower 13 is disposed inside the housing 11. The blower 13 blows air from the interior of the outdoor unit 10 to the exterior. When the blower 13 is driven, air is drawn into the housing 11 through the air inlet 15. The air drawn into the housing 11 passes through the heat exchanger 12 and is blown out of the housing 11 through the air outlet 14. The air is blown upward from the air outlet 14.

[0036] In this embodiment, the plurality of outdoor units 10 are arranged in two rows (a first row and a second row). The first row and the second row are parallel to each other. The outdoor units 10 in the first row and the outdoor units 10 in the second row are arranged so that the side of the housing 11 where the heat exchanger 12 is not arranged (i.e., the side where the suction port 15 is not formed) faces each other.

[0037] The arrangement of the plurality of outdoor units 10 is not limited thereto. The plurality of outdoor units 10 may be arranged in a single row. The plurality of outdoor units 10 may be arranged in a plurality of rows of two or more.

[0038] Alternatively, the suction port 15 may be formed on the entire surfaces of three of the four side surfaces of the housing 11 and on half of the remaining side surface. In this case, the heat exchanger 12 is arranged along the entire surfaces of three of the four side surfaces of the housing 11 and on half of the remaining side surface. The outdoor units 10 in the first row and the outdoor units 10 in the second row are arranged so that the side surface of the housing 11 with the smallest area for the heat exchanger 12 (i.e., the side surface with the smallest area for forming the suction port 15) faces each other.

[0039] The adsorbent contains a material that can adsorb carbon dioxide. Examples of materials that can adsorb carbon dioxide include amines, zeolites, silica gel, diatomaceous earth, alumina, activated carbon, and the like. Multiple materials may be selected from the above materials, and materials other than the above materials may also be used. The adsorbent may also be granular (e.g., bead-shaped (spherical), granular (cylindrical)). Alternatively, a powdered adsorbent may also be used. In this case, the powdered adsorbent may also be carried on the surface of the substrate. The substrate may also be, for example, in the shape of a honeycomb.

[0040] The first container 20 is a container capable of storing an adsorbent. The first container 20 is attached to the outdoor unit 10. In this embodiment, one first container 20 is provided for each outdoor unit 10. The first container 20 is located at a position where the airflow generated by the blower 13 (the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10) is blown.

[0041] One first container 20 may be provided for a plurality of outdoor units 10. In this case, the first container 20 is disposed at a position where airflow generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10 hits.

[0042] When viewed from above, the first container 20 has a generally U-shape. It is positioned along the heat exchanger 12. In other words, the first container 20 is positioned along the three side surfaces of the housing 11 where the heat exchanger 12 is positioned (i.e., the three side surfaces forming the suction port 15). In the direction of airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10, the first container 20 is positioned upstream of the heat exchanger 12. Air drawn into the housing 11 through the suction port 15 by driving the blower 13 is blown toward the first container 20.

[0043] The first container 20 is air-permeable. Therefore, when the blower 13 blows air, air enters the adsorbent contained in the first container 20, or air in the adsorbent contained in the first container 20 is exhausted. In other words, the air inside the first container 20 and the air outside can be replaced by the air blown by the blower 13.

[0044] The first adsorbent pipe 22 connects the plurality of first containers 20 and the separation device 31. The first adsorbent pipe 22 transports the adsorbent between the plurality of first containers 20 and the separation device 31. For example, the first adsorbent pipe 22 may be made of a metal such as polyvinyl chloride, aluminum, or stainless steel. The cross-sectional shape of the first adsorbent pipe 22 may be either circular or rectangular.

[0045] The first adsorbent pipe 22 includes a first pipe 23 for conveying the adsorbent from the separation device 31 to the plurality of first containers 20 , and a second pipe 24 for conveying the adsorbent from the plurality of first containers 20 to the separation device 31 .

[0046] The first piping 23 includes a main piping portion 23a and a plurality of branch piping portions 23b branching from the main piping portion 23a. The main piping portion 23a is disposed between the outdoor units 10 in the first row and the outdoor units 10 in the second row. One end of the branch piping portion 23b is connected to the main piping portion 23a. The other end of the branch piping portion 23b is connected to the upper portion of the first container 20. The adsorbent is transferred from the separator 31 through the main piping portion 23a and the branch piping portions 23b from the upper portion of the first container 20 into the first container 20. Furthermore, within the first container 20, the adsorbent is transferred from the upper portion to the lower portion.

[0047] The second piping 24 includes a main piping section 24a and a plurality of branch piping sections 24b branching from the main piping section 24a. The main piping section 24a is disposed between the outdoor units 10 in the first row and the outdoor units 10 in the second row. One end of the branch piping section 24b is connected to the main piping section 24a. The other end of the branch piping section 24b is connected to the lower portion of the first container 20. The adsorbent is discharged from the lower portion of the first container 20 and transported to the separation device 31 via the main piping section 24a and the branch piping sections 24b.

[0048] like Figure 3As shown, the first pipe 23 is arranged above the second pipe 24. The first pipe 23 and the second pipe 24 are respectively inclined so as to extend downward as they are toward the downstream side of the conveying direction of the adsorbent. That is, the first pipe 23 is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the separation device 31, and the second pipe 24 is inclined so as to extend downward as it approaches the separation device 31. The adsorbent moves in the first pipe 23 and the second pipe 24 by its own weight. For example, the adsorbent moves by the rotation of the first pipe 23 and the second pipe 24. In addition, depending on the size of the adsorbent, etc., a roller conveyor, a belt conveyor, a blower, etc. for assisting the movement of the adsorbent may be provided to the first pipe 23 and the second pipe 24.

[0049] The separation device 31 has the function of separating carbon dioxide from the adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide. The adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide in the plurality of first containers 20 is transported to the separation device 31 via the first adsorbent pipe 22 (second pipe 24). The adsorbent from which carbon dioxide has been separated by the separation device 31 is then transported to the plurality of first containers 20 via the first adsorbent pipe 22 (first pipe 23).

[0050] The separation device 31 may also include a heater to heat the adsorbent (e.g., to 60-120°C) to separate the carbon dioxide. The heating temperature may be appropriately adjusted depending on the specific material of the adsorbent. Alternatively, the separation device 31 may include a vacuum pump to separate the carbon dioxide by placing the adsorbent under reduced pressure.

[0051] The recovery device 32 is connected to the separation device 31 via a recovery pipe 33. The carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31 is transported to the recovery device 32 via the recovery pipe 33. The recovery device 32 recovers the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31.

[0052] The recovery device 32 includes, for example, a methanation system having a function of generating methane using carbon dioxide, water, electricity, etc. The recovery device 32 may also include a gas cylinder capable of storing carbon dioxide.

[0053] The renewable energy device 40 has solar panels 41 and 42. For example, the solar panels 41 and 42 are thin-film type solar panels that are lightweight and flexible. Figure 1 As indicated by dotted arrows in FIG. 8 , the electric power generated by the renewable energy device 40 is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the separation device 31 , and the recovery device 32 .

[0054] The solar panel 41 is installed on the wall surface of the separation device 31. The solar panel 42 is installed on the wall surface of the recovery device 32. Thus, there is no need to newly set up a space for installing the solar panels 41 and 42, so the space efficiency is improved. In order to increase the installation area of the solar panels 41 and 42, the solar panels 41 and 42 can also be installed on the wall surface with a larger area among the wall surfaces of the separation device 31 or the recovery device 32. In addition, in order to increase the power generation amount of the solar panels 41 and 42, the separation device 31 or the recovery device 32 can also be arranged so that the wall surface on which the solar panels 41 and 42 are installed faces south.

[0055] Describe the installation quantity of each component of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1.

[0056] The quantity of the first containers 20 is greater than the quantity of the separation devices 31. In addition, when the quantity of the methanation systems of the recovery device 32 is set as N1, the quantity of the separation devices 31 is set as N2, and the quantity of the outdoor units 10 is set as N3, N1 ≤ N2 < N3.

[0057] For example, in the present embodiment, the quantity of the first containers 20 is 6, the quantity N1 of the methanation systems is 1, the quantity N2 of the separation devices 31 is 1, and the quantity N3 of the outdoor units 10 is 6. In addition, the quantity of the outdoor units 10, the quantity of the first containers 20, the quantity of the separation devices 31, and the quantity of the methanation systems are not limited to this, as long as the quantity of the first containers 20 is greater than the quantity of the separation devices 31 and N1 ≤ N2 < N3 is satisfied. In addition, when one first container 20 is provided for multiple outdoor units 10, the quantity of the outdoor units 10 is greater than the quantity of the first containers 20.

[0058] Describe the carbon dioxide recovery method using the carbon dioxide recovery system 1.

[0059] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 recovers carbon dioxide by using the air flow generated by the blower 13 and the external wind hitting the first container 20.

[0060] That is, when the blower 13 is driven, the air flow of the air inhaled from the suction port 15 into the housing 11 is blown to the first container 20. In addition, the external wind hits the first container 20. The air flow generated by the blower 13 and the external wind are brought into contact with the adsorbent accommodated in the first container 20, and the adsorbent adsorbs carbon dioxide (adsorption process). After that, the adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide is transported from the first container 20 to the separation device 31. The separation device 31 separates carbon dioxide from the adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide (separation process). The recovery device 32 recovers the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31 (recovery process).

[0061] As described above, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1 according to the present embodiment includes: a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system; an adsorbent that adsorbs carbon dioxide; a plurality of first containers 20 having air permeability, disposed at a position where at least a part of the air flow generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10 blows, and capable of accommodating the adsorbent therein; a separation device 31 connected to the plurality of first containers 20, for separating carbon dioxide from the adsorbent that has adsorbed carbon dioxide; and a recovery device 32 for recovering the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31. The number of the plurality of first containers 20 is greater than the number of the separation devices 31.

[0062] Thereby, it is possible to recover carbon dioxide by using the air flow generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10. Therefore, carbon dioxide can be recovered in an energy-saving manner (with less energy), and the recovery efficiency of carbon dioxide is improved.

[0063] In addition, at this time, it is required to recover carbon dioxide while suppressing a decrease in the capacity of the air conditioning system. That is, when the amount of the adsorbent accommodated in the first container 20 is large, the amount of air passing through the outdoor unit 10 decreases due to the pressure loss caused by the adsorbent, and the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning system may be reduced. In the present embodiment, a plurality of first containers 20 are provided, and the amount of the adsorbent accommodated in one first container 20 is set within a range that prevents the above-mentioned decrease in the air volume. In addition, since the carbon dioxide adsorption time in one first container 20 becomes shorter, the number of the first containers 20 is made greater than the number of the separation devices 31, so that the carbon dioxide adsorption time in the plurality of first containers 20 is substantially equal to the carbon dioxide separation time in the separation device 31. Thereby, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the capacity of the air conditioning system, and perform carbon dioxide adsorption and carbon dioxide separation with good balance, and the recovery efficiency of carbon dioxide is improved.

[0064] In addition, the recovery device 32 includes a methanation system that uses the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31 to generate methane. When the number of the methanation systems is set to N1, the number of the separation devices 31 is set to N2, and the number of the plurality of outdoor units 10 is set to N3, then N1 ≤ N2 < N3.

[0065] When generating methane in the methanation system, a large amount of carbon dioxide is required. By setting N1 ≤ N2 < N3, it is possible to efficiently generate methane in the methanation system.

[0066] In addition, when the number of the plurality of outdoor units 10 increases, the air flow rate generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10 (that is, the air flow rate in contact with the adsorbent accommodated in the first container 20) increases. Therefore, the amount of carbon dioxide adsorbed by the adsorbent increases, and the recovery efficiency of carbon dioxide is improved.

[0067] Furthermore, the plurality of outdoor units 10 are arranged so that the side surfaces having the smallest area for arranging the heat exchangers 12 among the four side surfaces of the housing 11 face each other.

[0068] This can suppress the mutual interference of airflows generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10. Therefore, it is possible to recover carbon dioxide while suppressing a decrease in the performance of the air conditioning system.

[0069] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 further includes a first adsorbent pipe 22 connecting the plurality of first containers 20 and the separation device 31. The plurality of outdoor units 10 are arranged in a plurality of rows, and at least a portion of the first adsorbent pipe 22 is arranged between the rows.

[0070] This makes it possible to reduce the number of pipes used in the first adsorbent pipe 22 , the length of the pipe, and the like, thereby achieving cost reduction.

[0071] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 further includes a renewable energy device 40 installed in at least one of the separation device 31 and the recovery device 32. The power generated by the renewable energy device 40 is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10, the separation device 31, and the recovery device 32.

[0072] The electricity purchase cost can be reduced by using the electricity generated by the renewable energy device 40. In addition, by installing the renewable energy device 40 in the separation device 31 or the recovery device 32, the number of supporting components for the renewable energy device 40 can be reduced, thereby achieving cost reduction.

[0073] Furthermore, a plurality of first containers 20 are arranged along the heat exchangers 12 of the plurality of outdoor units 10 .

[0074] This allows the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10 to efficiently contact the adsorbent stored in the first container 20 , so that carbon dioxide can be efficiently recovered.

[0075] Furthermore, when a plurality of outdoor units 10 are arranged so that the heat exchangers 12 are aligned on one side, the plurality of first containers 20 are also aligned in one direction, so that maintenance becomes easy.

[0076] Furthermore, when the first container 20 is arranged along the heat exchanger 12, the first container 20 is positioned upstream of the heat exchanger 12 in the direction of the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10. When the adsorbent contained in the first container 20 adsorbs carbon dioxide, adsorption heat is generated. For example, in winter, this adsorption heat is transferred to the heat exchanger 12 along with the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10. Heat is generated by the adsorption heat, thereby suppressing frost formation on the heat exchanger 12. Consequently, a decrease in the performance of the air conditioning system can be suppressed.

[0077] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1 also includes a first adsorbent pipe 22 connecting the plurality of first containers 20 and the separator 31. The first adsorbent pipe 22 includes a first pipe 23 for transporting adsorbent from the separator 31 to the plurality of first containers 20, and a second pipe 24 for transporting adsorbent from the plurality of first containers 20 to the separator 31. The first pipe 23 is positioned above the second pipe 24. The first pipe 23 is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the separator 31. The second pipe 24 is inclined so as to extend downward as it approaches the separator 31.

[0078] The inclination of the first and second pipes 23 and 24 allows the adsorbent to be transported between the plurality of first containers 20 and the separation device 31, eliminating or reducing the power required to transport the adsorbent. Consequently, the carbon dioxide recovery efficiency of the entire system is improved.

[0079] Implementation method 2.

[0080] Next, a description will be given of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1A according to Embodiment 2. The basic configuration of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1A according to this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1, and therefore the description will focus on the differences.

[0081] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1A according to the second embodiment. Figure 5 It is a top view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system 1A. Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system 1A.

[0082] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1A includes a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, an adsorbent, a second container 50 (container), a second adsorbent pipe 54 (adsorbent pipe), a separation device 31 , a recovery device 32 , and a renewable energy device 40 .

[0083] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1A according to the second embodiment includes a second container 50 and a second adsorbent pipe 54 instead of the plurality of first containers 20 and the first adsorbent pipe 22 .

[0084] The following, such as Figure 5 As shown in FIG, in a plan view, the direction in which the second container 50 and the separator 31 face each other is referred to as the first direction, and the direction perpendicular to the first direction is referred to as the second direction. In addition, in the first direction, the separator 31 side is referred to as one side, and the second container 50 side is referred to as the other side.

[0085] The second container 50 is a container capable of storing an adsorbent. The second container 50 is positioned above the plurality of outdoor units 10. The second container 50 is positioned so as to be blown by the airflow generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10. The second container 50 is positioned downstream of the heat exchanger 12 in the direction of flow of the airflow generated by the outdoor units 10.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, the second container 50 has a V-shape when viewed from the second direction. The second container 50 includes a first receiving portion 51 and a second receiving portion 52. The first receiving portion 51 is positioned above the second receiving portion 52. When viewed from above, the first receiving portion 51 and the second receiving portion 52 overlap. At the other end in the first direction, the first receiving portion 51 and the second receiving portion 52 communicate with each other.

[0087] The first and second housing sections 51 and 52 are arranged at positions overlapping the outlets 14 of the plurality of outdoor units 10 in a plan view.

[0088] The second container 50 (the first and second housing sections 51 and 52) is air-permeable. Therefore, when the blower 13 blows air, air enters the adsorbent contained in the second container 50, or air contained in the adsorbent is exhausted. In other words, the air blown by the blower 13 replaces the air inside the second container 50 with the air outside.

[0089] The second adsorbent pipe 54 connects the second container 50 and the separator 31. The second adsorbent pipe 54 transports the adsorbent between the second container 50 and the separator 31. For example, the second adsorbent pipe 54 can be made of a metal such as polyvinyl chloride, aluminum, or stainless steel. The cross-sectional shape of the second adsorbent pipe 54 can be either circular or rectangular.

[0090] The second adsorbent pipe 54 includes a first pipe 55 for conveying the adsorbent from the separator 31 to the second container 50 (first storage section 51 ) and a second pipe 56 for conveying the adsorbent from the second container 50 (second storage section 52 ) to the separator 31 .

[0091] The first piping 55 is connected to one end portion of the first housing section 51 in the first direction. The adsorbent is transported from the separation device 31 to the first housing section 51 via the first piping 55. In the first housing section 51, the adsorbent is transported from one side of the first direction to the other side. At the end portion on the other side of the first direction, the first housing section 51 and the second housing section 52 are connected to each other. The adsorbent is transported from the first housing section 51 to the second housing section 52 via the connecting portion. In the second housing section 52, the adsorbent is transported from the other side of the first direction to one side. The second piping 56 is connected to one end portion of the second housing section 52 in the first direction. The adsorbent is discharged from one end portion of the second housing section 52 in the first direction and is transported to the separation device 31 via the second piping 56.

[0092] The first pipe 55 is arranged above the second pipe 56. The first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56 are respectively inclined so as to extend downward as they are toward the downstream side of the conveying direction of the adsorbent. That is, the first pipe 55 is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the separation device 31, and the second pipe 56 is inclined so as to extend downward as it approaches the separation device 31. The adsorbent moves in the first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56 by its own weight. For example, the adsorbent moves by the rotation of the first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56. In addition, depending on the size of the adsorbent, a roller conveyor, a belt conveyor, a blower, etc. for assisting the movement of the adsorbent may be provided to the first pipe 55 and the second pipe 56.

[0093] In the second container 50, the first housing section 51 is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the first pipe 55. The second housing section 52 is inclined so as to extend downward as it approaches the second pipe 56. The adsorbent moves in the first housing section 51 and the second housing section 52 by its own weight.

[0094] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the separation device 31 is arranged above the recovery device 32.

[0095] A method for recovering carbon dioxide using the carbon dioxide recovery system 1A will be described.

[0096] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1A recovers carbon dioxide using the airflow generated by the blower 13 and the outside wind blowing onto the second container 50 .

[0097] Specifically, when the blower 13 is driven, the air flow blown upward from the blower outlet 14 is blown onto the second container 50. Furthermore, the outside air is blown onto the second container 50. The air flow generated by the blower 13 and the outside air are brought into contact with the adsorbent contained in the second container 50, causing the adsorbent to adsorb carbon dioxide (adsorption process). The separation process and recovery process are the same as those in Embodiment 1, and therefore their description is omitted here.

[0098] As described above, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1A according to this embodiment includes: a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system; an adsorbent for adsorbing carbon dioxide; a second, air-permeable container 50 disposed above the plurality of outdoor units 10 and capable of housing the adsorbent; a separator 31 connected to the second container 50 for separating carbon dioxide from the adsorbent containing the carbon dioxide; and a recovery device 32 for recovering the carbon dioxide separated by the separator 31. The separator 31 is disposed above the recovery device 32.

[0099] This allows carbon dioxide to be recovered using the airflow generated by the plurality of outdoor units 10. Therefore, carbon dioxide can be recovered in an energy-saving manner (using less energy), and the efficiency of carbon dioxide recovery is improved.

[0100] Furthermore, the second container 50 is disposed above the plurality of outdoor units 10, and the separation device 31 is disposed above the recovery device 32. This can reduce the floor area on which the carbon dioxide recovery system 1A is installed.

[0101] Furthermore, the adsorption heat generated when the adsorbent stored in the second container 50 adsorbs carbon dioxide can be prevented from being transferred to the heat exchanger 12 of the outdoor unit 10. Therefore, for example, when the air conditioning system is in cooling operation, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning system can be prevented from being reduced due to the adsorption heat.

[0102] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1A also includes a second adsorbent pipe 54 connecting the second container 50 and the separator 31. The second adsorbent pipe 54 includes a first pipe 55 for transporting adsorbent from the separator 31 to the second container 50, and a second pipe 56 for transporting adsorbent from the second container 50 to the separator 31. The second container 50 includes a first housing portion 51 connected to the first pipe 55, and a second housing portion 52 communicating with the first housing portion 51 and connected to the second pipe 56. The first housing portion 51 is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the first pipe 55, while the second housing portion 52 is inclined so as to extend downward as it approaches the second pipe 56.

[0103] The adsorbent can be transported by utilizing the inclination of the first storage section 51 and the second storage section 52, so that the power for transporting the adsorbent is not required or can be reduced. Therefore, the carbon dioxide recovery efficiency of the entire system is improved.

[0104] Implementation method 3.

[0105] Next, a description will be given of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1B according to Embodiment 3. The basic configuration of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1B according to this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiments 1 and 2, and therefore the description will focus on the differences.

[0106] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1B according to the third embodiment. Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system 1B.

[0107] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1B includes multiple outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, adsorbents, multiple first containers 20, first adsorbent piping 22, second containers 50, second adsorbent piping 54, a separation device 31, a recovery device 32, a renewable energy device 40, a control unit 61, an adsorption and desorption unit 62, and an exhaust unit 63.

[0108] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1B according to Embodiment 3 includes both a plurality of first containers 20 and first adsorbent piping 22, and a second container 50 and second adsorbent piping 54. The basic structure of the plurality of first containers 20, first adsorbent piping 22, second container 50, and second adsorbent piping 54 is the same as that of Embodiments 1 and 2, and therefore description thereof is omitted here.

[0109] In the present embodiment, the separation device 31 is provided with a switching mechanism (not shown) that switches the transport path of the adsorbent using the first adsorbent pipe 22 and the second adsorbent pipe 54 .

[0110] The controller 61 controls the switching mechanism so that adsorbent is transported through the first adsorbent pipe 22 during heating operation of the air conditioning system and through the second adsorbent pipe 54 during cooling operation. The first adsorbent pipe 22 corresponds to a first transport path for transporting adsorbent through the plurality of first containers 20 and the separator 31. The second adsorbent pipe 54 corresponds to a second transport path for transporting adsorbent through the second container 50 and the separator 31.

[0111] Furthermore, when it is desired to increase the amount of carbon dioxide recovered, the controller 61 may control the switching mechanism so that the adsorbent is transported through both the first adsorbent pipe 22 and the second adsorbent pipe 54 .

[0112] The adsorption and desorption section 62 is, for example, located at the back of a ceiling indoors. The adsorption and desorption section 62 is supplied with indoor air exhausted from, for example, a ventilation fan (not shown) located on the ceiling. The adsorption and desorption section 62 adsorbs and desorbs carbon dioxide contained in the indoor air. The adsorption and desorption section 62 includes, for example, an adsorption section that adsorbs carbon dioxide from the indoor air and a desorption section that separates the carbon dioxide adsorbed in the adsorption section. The carbon dioxide concentration in the air subjected to the adsorption and desorption treatment by the adsorption and desorption section 62 is higher than the carbon dioxide concentration in the untreated air. Furthermore, the adsorption and desorption treatment may be performed multiple times in the adsorption and desorption section 62.

[0113] The exhaust section 63 is, for example, an exhaust duct installed outdoors. The exhaust section 63 is, for example, installed at a ventilation port leading from the interior to the exterior. The air treated by the adsorption / desorption section 62 is supplied to the exhaust section 63. The exhaust section 63 exhausts the air treated by the adsorption / desorption section 62 toward the first container 20 and the second container 50.

[0114] Furthermore, the control unit 61 may control the supply destination of the air exhausted from the exhaust unit 63. Specifically, the control unit 61 may control the exhaust unit 63 so that the air is exhausted from the exhaust unit 63 toward the first container 20 when the air conditioning system is performing a heating operation, and so that the air is exhausted from the exhaust unit 63 toward the second container 50 when the air conditioning system is performing a cooling operation.

[0115] In addition, in the present embodiment, the electric power generated by the renewable energy device 40 is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the separation device 31 , the recovery device 32 , and the control unit 61 .

[0116] A method for recovering carbon dioxide using the carbon dioxide recovery system 1B will be described.

[0117] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1B recovers carbon dioxide using the airflow generated by the blower 13 , the outside wind blowing onto the first container 20 and the second container 50 , and the airflow exhausted from the exhaust unit 63 .

[0118] Specifically, when the air conditioning system is performing a heating operation, the controller 61 transports the adsorbent using the first adsorbent pipe 22. When the blower 13 is driven, the air flow drawn into the housing 11 from the air inlet 15 is blown toward the first container 20. Furthermore, the outside air blows toward the first container 20. The air flow discharged from the exhaust unit 63 is blown toward the first container 20. The air flow generated by the blower 13, the outside air, and the air flow discharged from the exhaust unit 63 are brought into contact with the adsorbent contained in the first container 20, causing the adsorbent to adsorb carbon dioxide (adsorption process).

[0119] When the air conditioning system is performing cooling operation, the controller 61 transports the adsorbent using the second adsorbent pipe 54. When the blower 13 is driven, the air flow blown upward from the air outlet 14 is blown onto the second container 50. Furthermore, the outside air blows onto the second container 50. The air flow discharged from the exhaust unit 63 is blown onto the second container 50. The air flow generated by the blower 13, the outside air, and the air flow discharged from the exhaust unit 63 are brought into contact with the adsorbent contained in the second container 50, causing the adsorbent to adsorb carbon dioxide (adsorption process).

[0120] The separation step and the recovery step are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof is omitted here.

[0121] As described above, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1B according to this embodiment further includes: a second, air-permeable container 50, located above the plurality of outdoor units 10, connected to the separator 31, and capable of housing an adsorbent; and a controller 61 for controlling the adsorbent transport path. The controller 61 transports the adsorbent via the first adsorbent pipe 22 during heating operation of the air conditioning system and via the second adsorbent pipe 54 during cooling operation.

[0122] By switching the transport direction of the adsorbent when the air conditioning system is performing cooling operation and heating operation, it is possible to efficiently collect carbon dioxide while suppressing a decrease in the performance of the air conditioning system.

[0123] Specifically, during heating operation of the air conditioning system, adsorbent is transported via the first adsorbent pipe 22, causing the adsorbent contained in the first container 20 to adsorb carbon dioxide. The air conditioning system often operates in heating mode during winter, and there is a risk of frost forming on the heat exchanger 12 of the outdoor unit 10. The adsorption heat generated when the adsorbent contained in the first container 20 adsorbs carbon dioxide is transferred to the heat exchanger 12 along with the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10. The heat of adsorption heat heats the heat exchanger 12, thereby suppressing frost formation on the heat exchanger 12. Consequently, a decrease in the performance of the air conditioning system can be suppressed.

[0124] During cooling operation of the air conditioning system, the adsorbent is transported via the second adsorbent pipe 54, causing the adsorbent contained in the second container 50 to adsorb carbon dioxide. This prevents the adsorption heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs carbon dioxide from being transferred to the heat exchanger 12 of the outdoor unit 10. Consequently, a decrease in the performance of the air conditioning system due to adsorption heat can be prevented.

[0125] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1B further includes an exhaust unit 63 that exhausts air exhausted from the room toward at least one of the plurality of first containers 20 and the second container 50 .

[0126] This allows carbon dioxide to be recovered even from air with a high carbon dioxide concentration exhausted from indoors, further improving the efficiency of carbon dioxide recovery.

[0127] Furthermore, the adsorbent's carbon dioxide adsorption efficiency is affected by the temperature of the air in contact with the adsorbent. Typically, the temperature of the air exhausted from the exhaust section 63 (inside the room) is around 25°C. When the air conditioning system is operating in cooling mode, the air exhausted from the exhaust section 63 can be used to lower the temperature of the air in contact with the adsorbent. When the air conditioning system is operating in heating mode, the air exhausted from the room can be used to raise the temperature of the air in contact with the adsorbent. The air exhausted from the exhaust section 63 can be used to adjust the temperature of the air in contact with the adsorbent to a temperature suitable for the adsorbent to adsorb carbon dioxide, further improving the efficiency of carbon dioxide recovery.

[0128] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1B further includes an adsorption / desorption unit 62 for adsorbing and desorbing carbon dioxide contained in the air in the room. The air treated by the adsorption / desorption unit 62 is supplied to the exhaust unit 63 .

[0129] The carbon dioxide concentration in the air treated by the adsorption-desorption section 62 is higher than that in the untreated air. Since carbon dioxide can be recovered from the air treated by the adsorption-desorption section 62, which has a higher carbon dioxide concentration, the efficiency of carbon dioxide recovery is further improved. Furthermore, the provision of the adsorption-desorption section 62 reduces the amount of air transported from indoors to outdoors, thereby reducing air transport energy and achieving cost savings.

[0130] Implementation method 4.

[0131] Next, a description will be given of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1C according to Embodiment 4. The basic configuration of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1C according to this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1, and therefore the description will focus on the differences.

[0132] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1C according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 10 It is a top view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system 1C. Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system 1C.

[0133] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1C includes multiple outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, adsorbents, multiple first containers 20, first adsorbent piping 22, a third container 70, a third adsorbent piping 72, a separation device 31, a recovery device 32, a renewable energy device 40, an adsorption and desorption section 62, an exhaust section 63, a heat pump 81, and a control section 85.

[0134] In addition, Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 Although illustration of the first adsorbent pipe 22 is omitted, the first adsorbent pipe 22 has the same structure as that of the first embodiment.

[0135] The third container 70 is a container that can accommodate the adsorbent. The third container 70 has air permeability. Figure 10 As shown, in a plan view, a third container 70 is placed outside the area A where the multiple outdoor units 10 are located. The third container 70 is placed in a location where the airflow generated by the outdoor units 10 is not affected but where the outside air is received. For example, the third container 70 is placed at the edge E of the roof.

[0136] like Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, the exhaust unit 63 exhausts the air processed by the adsorption / desorption unit 62 toward the third container 70. That is, the air flow exhausted from the exhaust unit 63 is blown to the third container 70.

[0137] The third adsorbent pipe 72 connects the third container 70 and the separator 31. The third adsorbent pipe 72 transports the adsorbent between the third container 70 and the separator 31. For example, the third adsorbent pipe 72 can be made of a metal such as polyvinyl chloride, aluminum, or stainless steel. The cross-sectional shape of the third adsorbent pipe 72 can be either circular or rectangular.

[0138] The third adsorbent pipe 72 includes a first pipe 73 for conveying the adsorbent from the separator 31 to the third container 70 and a second pipe 74 for conveying the adsorbent from the third container 70 to the separator 31. Furthermore, within the third container 70, the adsorbent is conveyed from the upper side to the lower side.

[0139] The first pipe 73 is arranged above the second pipe 74. The first pipe 73 and the second pipe 74 are respectively inclined so as to extend downward as they are directed toward the downstream side of the conveying direction of the adsorbent. That is, the first pipe 73 is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the separation device 31, and the second pipe 74 is inclined so as to extend downward as it approaches the separation device 31. The adsorbent moves in the first pipe 73 and the second pipe 74 by its own weight. For example, the adsorbent moves by the rotation of the first pipe 73 and the second pipe 74. In addition, depending on the size of the adsorbent, a roller conveyor, a belt conveyor, a blower, etc. for assisting the movement of the adsorbent may be provided to the first pipe 73 and the second pipe 74.

[0140] In this embodiment, the separation device 31 is arranged between the plurality of first containers 20 and the third container 70 .

[0141] The heat pump 81 is arranged between the plurality of first containers 20 and the third container 70 .

[0142] The heat pump 81 includes an evaporator 82 and a condenser 83. In the heat pump 81, a refrigerant circulates between the condenser 83 and the evaporator 82.

[0143] In the evaporator 82, heat is exchanged between the liquid refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 82 and the air (outside air). The refrigerant absorbs heat of evaporation from the air. As a result, the refrigerant entering the evaporator 82 evaporates and becomes a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. Furthermore, the air is cooled by the refrigerant's absorption of heat. The cooled air is exhausted to the first container 20 or the third container 70.

[0144] In the condenser 83, heat is exchanged between the gaseous refrigerant flowing through the condenser 83 and the air (outside air), dissipating the refrigerant's heat of condensation to the air. Consequently, the refrigerant entering the condenser 83 condenses and becomes a high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Furthermore, the air is heated by the heat dissipated by the refrigerant. The heated air is then supplied to the separation device 31.

[0145] In the present embodiment, the separation device 31 is provided with a switching mechanism (not shown) that switches the transport path of the adsorbent using the first adsorbent pipe 22 and the third adsorbent pipe 72 .

[0146] The control unit 85 controls the switching mechanism so that the adsorbent is transported through the first adsorbent pipe 22 when the air conditioning system is performing a heating operation, and so that the adsorbent is transported through the third adsorbent pipe 72 when the air conditioning system is performing a cooling operation.

[0147] Furthermore, when it is desired to increase the amount of carbon dioxide recovered, the control unit 85 may control the switching mechanism so that the adsorbent is transported through both the first adsorbent pipe 22 and the third adsorbent pipe 72 .

[0148] The controller 85 controls the evaporator 82 so that air from the evaporator 82 is exhausted toward the first container 20 when the air conditioning system is performing a heating operation, and so that air from the evaporator 82 is exhausted toward the third container 70 when the air conditioning system is performing a cooling operation.

[0149] In the present embodiment, the electric power generated by the renewable energy device 40 is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the separation device 31 , the recovery device 32 , the control unit 85 , and the heat pump 81 .

[0150] A method for recovering carbon dioxide using the carbon dioxide recovery system 1C will be described.

[0151] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1C recovers carbon dioxide using the airflow generated by the blower 13 , the outside wind, the airflow of air exhausted from the exhaust portion 63 , and the airflow of air exhausted from the evaporator 82 .

[0152] That is, when the air conditioning system is performing a heating operation, the control unit 85 uses the first adsorbent pipe 22 to transport the adsorbent. The control unit 85 exhausts the air from the evaporator 82 toward the first container 20. When the blower 13 is driven, the air flow of the air sucked into the housing 11 from the air inlet 15 is blown toward the first container 20. In addition, the outside air blows toward the first container 20. The air flow of the air exhausted from the evaporator 82 is blown toward the first container 20. The air flow generated by the blower 13, the outside air, and the air flow of the air exhausted from the evaporator 82 are brought into contact with the adsorbent contained in the first container 20, causing the adsorbent to adsorb carbon dioxide (adsorption process).

[0153] When the air conditioning system performs cooling operation, the controller 85 transports the adsorbent using the third adsorbent pipe 72. The controller 85 exhausts air from the evaporator 82 toward the third container 70. The outside air blows against the third container 70. Furthermore, the air flow exhausted from the exhaust unit 63 blows against the third container 70. The air flow exhausted from the evaporator 82 blows against the third container 70. The outside air, the air flow exhausted from the exhaust unit 63, and the air flow exhausted from the evaporator 82 come into contact with the adsorbent contained in the third container 70, causing the adsorbent to adsorb carbon dioxide (adsorption process).

[0154] The adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide is then transferred from the first container 20 to the separation device 31. The separation device 31 separates carbon dioxide from the adsorbent adsorbed with carbon dioxide (separation step). At this time, air heated by the condenser 83 is supplied to the separation device 31. Therefore, the heat of the air heated by the condenser 83 can be used to separate carbon dioxide. The recovery device 32 recovers the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31 (recovery step).

[0155] As described above, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1C involved in this embodiment also includes: a breathable third container 70, which is arranged on the outside of the area A where multiple outdoor units 10 are arranged when viewed from above, is connected to the separation device 31, and can accommodate an adsorbent inside; and an exhaust section 63, which exhausts the air discharged from the room toward the third container 70.

[0156] The adsorbent contained in the third container 70 can also recover carbon dioxide from air with a high carbon dioxide concentration exhausted from the room, thereby further improving the efficiency of recovering carbon dioxide.

[0157] Furthermore, for example, when the third container 70 is disposed at the edge E of the roof, the air exhausted from the room can be easily exhausted toward the third container 70 using the exhaust unit 63 .

[0158] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1C also includes a heat pump 81 having a condenser 83 and an evaporator 82. The separator 31 and the heat pump 81 are disposed between the plurality of first containers 20 and the third container 70. Air exhausted from the condenser 83 is supplied to the separator 31. Air from the evaporator 82 is exhausted toward at least one of the plurality of first containers 20 and the third container 70.

[0159] Air heated by the condenser 83 is supplied to the separation device 31. For example, when the separation device 31 separates carbon dioxide by heating the adsorbent with a heater, the heat of the air heated by the condenser 83 can be used to separate the carbon dioxide. This reduces the heating energy consumed by the heater, achieving energy savings.

[0160] Furthermore, air from the evaporator 82 is exhausted toward at least one of the plurality of first containers 20 and the third container 70. This increases the amount of air that contacts the adsorbent, thereby increasing the amount of carbon dioxide adsorbed by the adsorbent and improving the efficiency of carbon dioxide recovery. Furthermore, when the adsorbent reaches a high temperature, the adsorbent's carbon dioxide adsorption efficiency may decrease. By cooling the adsorbent using air cooled by the evaporator 82, the adsorbent can be cooled, thereby preventing a decrease in carbon dioxide adsorption efficiency and enabling efficient carbon dioxide recovery.

[0161] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1C further includes a control unit 85 that controls the supply destination of the air from the evaporator 82. The control unit 85 exhausts the air from the evaporator 82 toward at least one of the plurality of first containers 20 when the air conditioning system is in cooling operation, and exhausts the air from the evaporator 82 toward the third container 70 when the air conditioning system is in heating operation.

[0162] By switching the supply destination of the air from the evaporator 82 between when the air conditioning system is performing cooling operation and when performing heating operation, carbon dioxide can be efficiently collected.

[0163] Implementation method 5.

[0164] Next, a description will be given of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1D according to Embodiment 5. The basic configuration of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1D according to this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1, and therefore the description will focus on the differences.

[0165] Figure 12This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system 1D according to the fifth embodiment.

[0166] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1D includes a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, adsorbents, a plurality of first containers 20 , first adsorbent pipes 22 , a separation device 31 , a recovery device 32 , and a renewable energy device 40A.

[0167] The renewable energy device 40A includes a solar panel 91, a collector 92, and a supply pipe 93. The electric power generated by the renewable energy device 40A is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10, the separation device 31, and the recovery device 32.

[0168] The solar panel 91 is arranged to cover the plurality of outdoor units 10 and the plurality of first containers 20 from above. The solar panel 91 is supported by columns 94. The collector 92 is attached to the edge of the solar panel 91. The solar panel 91 is tilted downward toward the collector 92. A supply pipe 93 connects the collector 92 to the recovery device 32.

[0169] Solar panel 91 is tilted downward toward collector 92. During rain, rainwater flows over the upper surface of solar panel 91 and is collected in collector 92. The water collected in collector 92 is supplied to the methanation system of recovery device 32 via supply piping 93. Alternatively, the water collected in collector 92 can be supplied to the methanation system after dust and other substances are removed through a filter. The methanation system generates methane using carbon dioxide supplied from separation device 31 and water supplied from collector 92.

[0170] As described above, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1D according to the present embodiment further includes the solar panel 91 arranged so as to cover the plurality of first containers 20 from above.

[0171] When the adsorbent contains moisture, the adsorbent's efficiency in adsorbing carbon dioxide decreases. Since the solar panel 91 can shield the first container 20 from rainwater, the adsorbent contained in the first container 20 can be prevented from getting wet. This prevents a decrease in carbon dioxide adsorption efficiency due to rain, and thus reduces the efficiency of carbon dioxide recovery.

[0172] Furthermore, since the solar panel 91 can block sunlight, a temperature rise of the adsorbent contained in the first container 20 can be suppressed, particularly in summer, and a decrease in the adsorption efficiency of carbon dioxide by the adsorbent can be suppressed.

[0173] The recovery device 32 includes a methanation system that generates methane using the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device 31 , and is provided with a supply pipe 93 that supplies the water collected by the solar panel 91 to the methanation system.

[0174] Since water (rainwater) collected by the solar panel 91 can be used in the methanation system, cost reduction can be achieved.

[0175] Implementation method 6.

[0176] Next, a description will be given of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1E according to Embodiment 6. The basic configuration of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1E according to this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 3, and therefore the description will focus on the differences.

[0177] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system 1E according to the sixth embodiment.

[0178] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1E includes a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, adsorbents, a plurality of first containers 20, first adsorbent pipes 22, a second container 50, a second adsorbent pipe 54, a separator 31, a recovery device 32, and a renewable energy device 40B.

[0179] The renewable energy device 40B includes solar panels 41 and 42 mounted on the walls of the separation device 31 and the recovery device 32, respectively, and a solar panel 95. The power generated by the renewable energy device 40B is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10, the separation device 31, and the recovery device 32.

[0180] The solar panel 95 is arranged so as to cover the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the plurality of first containers 20 , and the second container 50 from above. The solar panel 95 is supported by a column 96 .

[0181] The second container 50 is suspended and supported by the solar panel 95 via a fixing jig 97 .

[0182] As described above, the carbon dioxide recovery system 1E according to the present embodiment further includes the solar panel 95 that is arranged so as to cover the second container 50 from above. The second container 50 is fixed to the solar panel 95 .

[0183] Thus, compared with the case where the second container 50 is supported from below (ie, from the ground of the roof of a building), the number of fixing jigs for fixing the second container 50 can be reduced or the length of the fixing jigs can be shortened, thereby achieving cost reduction.

[0184] Implementation method 7.

[0185] Next, a description will be given of a carbon dioxide recovery system 1F according to Embodiment 7. The basic configuration of the carbon dioxide recovery system 1F according to this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1, and therefore the description will focus on the differences.

[0186] Figure 14 It is a plan view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system 1F according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 15 It is a side view schematically showing the carbon dioxide recovery system 1F.

[0187] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1F includes a plurality of outdoor units 10 of an air conditioning system, adsorbents, a plurality of first containers 20 , first adsorbent pipes 22 , a separator 31 , and a recovery device 32 .

[0188] The carbon dioxide recovery system 1F according to the present embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment in the structures of the outdoor unit 10 and the first container 20 .

[0189] The outdoor unit 10 includes a housing 11 , a heat exchanger 12 , and a blower 13 .

[0190] The housing 11 is a rectangular parallelepiped having four side surfaces, a top surface, and a bottom surface. An air outlet 14 is formed on one of the four side surfaces (the first side surface). An air inlet 15 is formed on the other two of the four side surfaces of the housing 11. The side surface forming the air inlet 15 includes a side surface (the second side surface) that faces the side surface forming the air outlet 14 (the first side surface).

[0191] The heat exchanger 12 has a substantially L-shape in a plan view and is arranged along two side surfaces of the housing 11 where the air inlet 15 is formed.

[0192] When the blower 13 is driven, air is sucked into the frame 11 from the suction port 15. The air sucked into the frame 11 passes through the heat exchanger 12 and is blown out of the frame 11 from the blowout port 14. Figure 14 As shown, at least a portion of the airflow generated by the blower 13 flows in one direction along the horizontal direction from the suction port 15 (first side surface) to the blowout port 14 (second side surface).

[0193] The plurality of outdoor units 10 are arranged in a row. The plurality of outdoor units 10 are arranged so that the directions from the air inlet 15 toward the air outlet 14 (the aforementioned one direction) are substantially aligned.

[0194] The separation device 31 and the recovery device 32 are arranged at positions where they are not affected by the airflow generated by the blower 13 .

[0195] The first container 20 has a substantially L-shape in a plan view and is arranged along the heat exchanger 12. In other words, the first container 20 is arranged along the two side surfaces of the housing 11 where the heat exchanger 12 is arranged (i.e., the two side surfaces forming the suction port 15).

[0196] As described above, in the carbon dioxide recovery system 1F according to this embodiment, each of the multiple outdoor units 10 includes a housing 11 having four side surfaces, including a first side surface forming the suction port 15 and a second side surface forming the blowout port 14. The multiple outdoor units 10 are arranged so that the directions from the suction port 15 toward the blowout port 14 are substantially aligned. The separation device 31 and the recovery device 32 are located in a position where they are not affected by the airflow generated by the multiple outdoor units 10.

[0197] This can suppress a decrease in the amount of air passing through the outdoor unit 10 and prevent a decrease in the air conditioning capacity of the air-conditioning system.

[0198] Furthermore, a plurality of first containers 20 are arranged along the heat exchangers 12 of the plurality of outdoor units 10 .

[0199] This allows the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10 to efficiently contact the adsorbent stored in the first container 20 , so that carbon dioxide can be efficiently recovered.

[0200] Modification of Implementation Example 7.

[0201] Figure 16 It is a side view schematically showing a carbon dioxide recovery system 1F according to a modification of the seventh embodiment.

[0202] like Figure 16 As shown, in this modification, a plurality of outdoor units 10 and a separation device 31 are arranged above a recovery device 32 .

[0203] This can reduce the floor area required to install the carbon dioxide recovery system 1F.

[0204] In addition, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0205] For example, in Embodiments 1 to 7, the renewable energy device 40 may generate electricity using renewable energy sources other than sunlight, such as wind power, geothermal energy, hydropower, and biomass.

[0206] In Embodiments 2, 3, and 6, the second container 50 may include another housing portion between the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52. In this case, for example, the second container 50 may have a W-shape when viewed from the second direction.

[0207] In Embodiments 3 and 4, the adsorption / desorption unit 62 may be omitted. In this case, the air exhausted from the ventilation fan is directly supplied to the exhaust unit 63 .

[0208] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments or modifications may be appropriately combined.

[0209] For example, in the second embodiment, the renewable energy device 40B in the sixth embodiment may also be used.

[0210] In the third embodiment, the third container 70 and the third adsorbent pipe 72 of the fourth embodiment may be provided.

[0211] In Embodiment 3, the renewable energy device 40A of Embodiment 5 may also be used. In this case, the power generated by the renewable energy device 40A may be supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the separation device 31 , the recovery device 32 , and the control unit 61 .

[0212] In Embodiment 3, the renewable energy device 40B of Embodiment 6 may also be used. In this case, the power generated by the renewable energy device 40B may be supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the separation device 31 , the recovery device 32 , and the control unit 61 .

[0213] In Embodiment 4, the renewable energy device 40A of Embodiment 5 may also be used. In this case, the power generated by the renewable energy device 40A may be supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units 10 , the separation device 31 , the recovery device 32 , the control unit 85 , and the heat pump 81 .

[0214] In Embodiments 4 and 5, the outdoor unit 10 of Embodiment 7 may also be used.

[0215] In the fifth embodiment, the renewable energy device 40A may further include the solar panels 41 and 42 of the first embodiment.

[0216] In the seventh embodiment, the renewable energy device 40 of the first embodiment or the renewable energy device 40A of the fifth embodiment may be provided.

[0217] In Embodiment 7, a second container 50 may also be provided, as in Embodiment 3. In this case, the second container 50 is positioned downstream of the heat exchanger 12 in the direction of the airflow generated by the outdoor unit 10. The second container 50 may also be positioned along the side surface of the housing 11 where the air outlet 14 is formed. Furthermore, the adsorbent may be transferred to the first container 20 during heating operation of the air conditioning system, and transferred to the second container 50 during cooling operation of the air conditioning system.

[0218] Furthermore, the control units 61 and 85 each include a computer system. Furthermore, a program for implementing the functions of each component of the carbon dioxide recovery systems 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1F may be stored on a computer-readable recording medium, and the computer system may read and execute the program stored on the recording medium to perform the processing in the control units 61 and 85. Furthermore, the processing may be performed by hardware other than the control units 61 and 85.

[0219] Here, “causing a computer system to read and execute a program recorded on a recording medium” includes installing the program into the computer system. The “computer system” referred to here includes an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.

[0220] Furthermore, a "computer system" may also include multiple computer devices connected via a network, including the Internet, a WAN, a LAN, or a dedicated line. Furthermore, a "computer-readable recording medium" refers to removable media such as floppy disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into the computer system. Thus, the recording medium storing the program may also be a non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0221] In addition, as a recording medium, it also includes a recording medium provided internally or externally and accessible from a distribution server in order to distribute the program. In addition, it is also possible to have a structure in which the program is divided into multiple parts and integrated into each structure possessed by the carbon dioxide recovery system 1 after being downloaded at different timings. In addition, the distribution servers for distributing each divided program may be different. Moreover, the "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a medium that keeps the program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or client in the case of sending a program via a network. In addition, the above-mentioned program may also be a program for realizing a part of the above-mentioned functions. Moreover, it may also be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the above-mentioned functions by combining with a program already recorded in a computer system.

[0222] Explanation of symbols

[0223] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F: CO2 recovery system; 10: Outdoor unit; 11: Frame; 12: Heat exchanger; 13: Blower; 14: Blow-out port; 15: Inlet port; 20: First container; 22: First adsorbent pipe; 23: First pipe; 24: Second pipe; 31: Separation device; 32: Recovery device; 40, 40A, 40B: Renewable energy equipment; 41, 42, 91, 95: Solar panel; 50: Second container (container); 51: First storage section; 52: Second storage section; 54: Second adsorbent pipe (adsorbent pipe); 61, 85: Control section; 62: Adsorption / desorption section; 63: Exhaust section; 70: Third container; 72: Third adsorbent pipe; 81: Heat pump; 82: Evaporator; 83: Condenser.

Claims

1. A carbon dioxide recovery system comprising: Multiple outdoor units of an air conditioning system; Adsorbent, adsorbing carbon dioxide; a plurality of first containers having air permeability, arranged at positions where at least a part of the airflow generated by the plurality of outdoor units blows, and capable of accommodating the adsorbent inside; a separation device connected to the plurality of first containers, and separating carbon dioxide from the adsorbent adsorbing carbon dioxide; as well as a recovery device for recovering the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device, The number of the plurality of first containers is greater than the number of the separation devices.

2. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 1, wherein: The recovery device includes a methanation system that generates methane using the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device. When the number of the methanogenation systems is set to N1, the number of the separation devices is set to N2, and the number of the plurality of outdoor units is set to N3, N1≤N2 <N3。 3. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plurality of outdoor units each include: a frame having four side surfaces; and a heat exchanger accommodated in the frame. The plurality of outdoor units are arranged so that the side surfaces having the smallest area for arranging the heat exchanger among the four side surfaces of the housing face each other.

4. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises a first adsorbent pipe, the first adsorbent pipe connecting the plurality of first containers and the separation device. The plurality of outdoor units are arranged into a plurality of columns, At least a portion of the first adsorbent pipe is disposed between the plurality of rows.

5. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises a renewable energy device installed in at least one of the separation device and the recovery device. The electric power generated by the renewable energy device is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units, the separation device, and the recovery device.

6. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The plurality of first containers are arranged along the heat exchangers of the plurality of outdoor units.

7. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises a first adsorbent pipe, the first adsorbent pipe connecting the plurality of first containers and the separation device. The first adsorbent pipe has: a first pipe for conveying the adsorbent from the separation device toward the plurality of first containers; and a second pipe for conveying the adsorbent from the plurality of first containers toward the separation device, The first pipe is arranged above the second pipe, The first pipe is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the separation device. The second pipe is inclined so as to extend downward as approaching the separation device.

8. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system also has: a second container having air permeability, arranged above the plurality of outdoor units, connected to the separation device, and capable of accommodating the adsorbent therein; and a control unit for controlling a transport path of the adsorbent, The control unit transports the adsorbent via the first transport path through the plurality of first containers and the separation device when the air conditioning system performs heating operation, and transports the adsorbent via the second transport path through the second container and the separation device when the air conditioning system performs cooling operation.

9. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 8, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further includes an exhaust unit that exhausts air exhausted from a room toward at least one of the plurality of first containers and the second container.

10. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 9, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises an adsorption and desorption unit, which adsorbs and desorbs carbon dioxide contained in the air in the room. The air processed by the adsorption and desorption section is supplied to the exhaust section.

11. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises a renewable energy device installed in at least one of the separation device and the recovery device. The electric power generated by the renewable energy device is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units, the separation device, the recovery device, and the control unit.

12. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system also has: a third container having air permeability, arranged outside the region where the plurality of outdoor units are arranged in a plan view, connected to the separation device, and capable of accommodating the adsorbent therein; as well as The exhaust unit exhausts the air exhausted from the room toward the third container.

13. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 12, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises a heat pump having a condenser and an evaporator. The separation device and the heat pump are arranged between the plurality of first containers and the third container. supplying the air exhausted from the condenser to the separation device, The air from the evaporator is exhausted toward at least one of the plurality of first containers and the third container.

14. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 13, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further includes a control unit that controls a supply destination of the air from the evaporator. The control unit exhausts the air from the evaporator toward at least one of the plurality of first containers when the air conditioning system performs a cooling operation, and exhausts the air from the evaporator toward the third container when the air conditioning system performs a heating operation.

15. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 14, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further comprises a renewable energy device installed in at least one of the separation device and the recovery device. The electric power generated by the renewable energy device is supplied to at least one of the plurality of outdoor units, the separation device, the recovery device, the control unit, and the heat pump.

16. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further includes a solar panel disposed so as to cover the plurality of first containers from above.

17. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 16, wherein: The recovery device includes a methanation system that generates methane using the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device. The carbon dioxide recovery system is provided with a supply pipe for supplying the water collected by the solar panel to the methanation system.

18. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further includes a solar panel, the solar panel being arranged to cover the second container from above. The second container is fixed to the solar panel.

19. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of outdoor units includes a housing having four side surfaces, wherein the four side surfaces include a first side surface forming a suction port and a second side surface forming a blow-out port. The plurality of outdoor units are arranged so that directions from the suction port to the blowing port are substantially aligned. The separation device and the recovery device are arranged at positions where the airflows generated by the plurality of outdoor units cannot reach.

20. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 19, wherein: The plurality of first containers are arranged along the heat exchangers of the plurality of outdoor units.

21. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 19 or 20, wherein: The plurality of outdoor units and the separation device are arranged above the recovery device.

22. A carbon dioxide recovery system comprising: Multiple outdoor units of an air conditioning system; Adsorbent, adsorbing carbon dioxide; a container having ventilation properties, arranged above the plurality of outdoor units, and capable of accommodating the adsorbent therein; a separation device connected to the container, for separating carbon dioxide from the adsorbent adsorbing carbon dioxide; as well as a recovery device for recovering the carbon dioxide separated in the separation device, The separation device is arranged above the recovery device.

23. The carbon dioxide recovery system according to claim 22, wherein: The carbon dioxide recovery system further includes an adsorbent pipe connecting the container and the separation device. The adsorbent piping comprises: a first pipe for conveying the adsorbent from the separation device toward the container; and a second pipe for conveying the adsorbent from the container toward the separation device, The container has: a first housing portion connected to the first pipe; and a second housing portion communicating with the first housing portion and connected to the second pipe, The first housing portion is inclined so as to extend downward as it moves away from the first pipe. The second housing portion is inclined so as to extend downward as approaching the second pipe.

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