Dehumidification device

Abstract

The present invention provides a dehumidification device comprising a main body case (1) having a suction port (2) and a discharge port (3), the main body case (1) having: a refrigeration cycle (6) in which at least a compressor (10), a condenser (11), an expander (12), and an evaporator (13) are annularly connected in this order; an air blowing unit (7) that functions the refrigeration cycle (6); and a control unit (9) that controls the refrigeration cycle (6) and the blower unit (7). The refrigeration cycle (6) uses a refrigerant having a global warming potential (GWP) of 10 or less, and is provided with a waste mechanism unit (20) capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a household dehumidifying device used, for example, for drying clothes. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, as such a dehumidifying device, a structure is known in which a compressor, a condenser, a capillary tube, and an evaporator are formed by a series closed loop, and a refrigeration cycle in which a hydrocarbon refrigerant and refrigerating oil are enclosed is provided in the loop. A refrigerant recovery unit is provided below the compressor, and the refrigerant and refrigerating oil in the refrigeration cycle are extracted from the refrigerant recovery unit (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-146370 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] In such a conventional dehumidifying device, since it has a structure for recovering the refrigerant at the time of disposal, it is necessary for a qualified person to recover the refrigerant, and there is a problem that the device cannot be easily disposed of.

[0008] The present invention is for solving the above-described conventional problems, and provides a dehumidifying device that can be easily disposed of.

[0009] The dehumidifying device of the present invention includes a main body housing having a suction port and a blowout port, and in the main body housing: at least a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator are sequentially connected in a ring; a blower unit that causes the refrigeration cycle to function; and a control unit that controls the refrigeration cycle and the blower unit. In this dehumidifying device, the refrigeration cycle uses a refrigerant having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less, and includes a disposal mechanism unit that discharges the refrigerant into the atmosphere.

[0010] According to the present invention, a high-pressure refrigerant that is not a problem in terms of environmental load can be easily discharged into the atmosphere, so that the dehumidifying device can be easily disposed of. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the dehumidifying device.

[0013] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the evaporator of the dehumidifying device.

[0014] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the condenser of the dehumidifying device.

[0015] Figure 5 It is a view showing the front of the dehumidifying device. (A) is a front view showing the filter part of the suction port provided in the front of the dehumidifying device. (B) is a front view showing the state after opening the filter part of the suction port provided in the front of the dehumidifying device. (C) is a front view showing the state after opening the cover part of the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device.

[0016] Figure 6A It shows the opening part on the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device and is a perspective view showing the state where the opening pin part is located on the front side of the main body housing.

[0017] Figure 6B It shows the opening part on the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device and is a perspective view showing the state where the opening pin part has moved to the rear side of the main body housing.

[0018] Figure 7A It shows the waste disposal mechanism part of the dehumidifying device and is a cross-sectional view showing the state where the opening pin part is located on the front side of the main body housing.

[0019] Figure 7B It shows the waste disposal mechanism part of the dehumidifying device and is a cross-sectional view showing the state where the opening pin part has moved to the rear side of the main body housing.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the opening part on the front of the main body housing and the waste disposal mechanism part of the dehumidifying device.

[0021] Figure 9 It is a view showing the front of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a front view showing the filter part of the suction port provided in the front of the dehumidifying device. (B) is a front view showing the state after opening the filter part of the suction port provided in the front of the dehumidifying device. (C) is a front view showing the state after opening the cover part of the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a perspective view showing the opening part on the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device.

[0023] Figure 11AIt is a sectional view of the state where the opening pin portion of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device is located on the front side of the main body case.

[0024] Figure 11B It is a sectional view showing the state where the opening pin portion of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device has moved to the rear side of the main body case.

[0025] Figure 12 It is a sectional perspective view of the front opening of the main body case of the dehumidifying device and the waste mechanism part.

[0026] Figure 13 It is a schematic sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the exterior of the dehumidifying device.

[0028] Figure 15 It is a perspective view of the exterior of the dehumidifying device.

[0029] Figure 16A It is a sectional view showing the state where the opening pin portion of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device is located on the first surface side of the main body case.

[0030] Figure 16B It is a sectional view showing the state where the opening pin portion of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device has moved to the inner side of the main body case.

[0031] Figure 17 It is a perspective view of the exterior of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 18 It is a schematic sectional view of the dehumidifying device.

[0033] Figure 19 It is a perspective view of the exterior of the evaporator of the dehumidifying device.

[0034] Figure 20 It is a perspective view of the exterior of the condenser of the dehumidifying device.

[0035] Figure 21 It is a view showing the front of the dehumidifying device. (A) is a front view of the filter portion of the suction port provided on the front of the dehumidifying device. (B) is a front view showing the state after opening the filter portion of the suction port provided on the front of the dehumidifying device. (C) is a front view showing the state after opening the cover portion on the front of the main body case of the dehumidifying device.

[0036] Figure 22 It is a perspective view of the front opening of the main body case of the dehumidifying device.

[0037] Figure 23AIt is a schematic cross-sectional view of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device, showing a cross-sectional view of the state where the perforated pin part is located on the front side of the main body housing.

[0038] Figure 23B It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device, showing a cross-sectional view of the state where the perforated pin part has moved to the rear side of the main body housing.

[0039] Figure 24 It is a sectional perspective view showing the front opening part of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device and the waste mechanism part.

[0040] Figure 25 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 26 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device.

[0042] Figure 27 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the evaporator of the dehumidifying device.

[0043] Figure 28 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the condenser of the dehumidifying device.

[0044] Figure 29 It is a front view of the dehumidifying device. (A) is a front view of the filter part of the suction port provided on the front of the dehumidifying device, (B) is a front view of the state after opening the filter part of the suction port provided on the front of the dehumidifying device, and (C) is a front view of the state after opening the cover part on the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device.

[0045] Figure 30 It is a perspective view showing the front opening part of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device and the waste mechanism part.

[0046] Figure 31A It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state where the perforated pin part of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device is located on the front side of the main body housing.

[0047] Figure 31B It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state where the perforated pin part of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device has moved to the rear side of the main body housing.

[0048] Figure 32 It is a functional module diagram showing the functions of the dehumidifying device in modules.

[0049] Figure 33 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the dehumidifying device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 34 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device.

[0051] Figure 35 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the evaporator of the dehumidifying device.

[0052] Figure 36 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the condenser of the dehumidifying device.

[0053] Figure 37 It is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of the dehumidifying device.

[0054] Figure 38 It is a front view showing the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Among them, (A) is a front view showing the filter part of the suction port provided on the front of the dehumidifying device, (B) is a front view showing the filter part of the suction port provided on the front of the dehumidifying device being opened, and (C) is a front view showing the front cover part of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device being opened.

[0055] Figure 39 It is a perspective view showing the first opening part and the waste mechanism part on the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device.

[0056] Figure 40A It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state where the opening pin part of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device is located on the front side of the main body housing.

[0057] Figure 40B It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state where the opening pin part of the waste mechanism part of the dehumidifying device has moved to the rear side of the main body housing.

[0058] Figure 41 It is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view showing the first opening part and the waste mechanism part on the front of the main body housing of the dehumidifying device.

[0059] Figure 42 It is an appearance cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 43 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the dehumidifying device.

[0061] Figure 44 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the dehumidifying device.

[0062] Figure 45 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the dehumidifying device. Detailed Embodiments

[0063] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] (First Embodiment)

[0065] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 2 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of

[0066] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 the main body housing 1 has a longitudinally long substantially box shape (including a box shape). Specifically, an air inlet 2 is disposed on the front surface of the main body housing 1 (the side surface on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 1). An air outlet 3 is disposed on the upper part of the main body housing 1. The air outlet 3 has a horizontally long quadrilateral shape and opens above and behind the main body housing 1.

[0067] On the rear side of the top surface of the main body housing 1 (the side surface on the other side (inner side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 1), there is a louver 4 for changing the direction of the air flow from the air outlet 3. On the front side of the top surface of the main body housing 1 (one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 1), an operation unit 5 is provided. The operation unit 5 has a plurality of switches for turning on / off the power supply and changing the operation mode, etc.

[0068] Inside the main body housing 1, there are a refrigeration cycle 6, a blower unit 7, a water storage tank unit 8, and a control unit 9.

[0069] The refrigeration cycle 6 is a structure in which a compressor 10, a condenser 11, an expander 12, and an evaporator 13 are connected in series in a ring shape to circulate a refrigerant. In addition, as the refrigerant, a refrigerant having a global warming potential (Global Warming Potential (GWP)) of 10 or less is used. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0070] The evaporator 13 is disposed on the front side of the main body housing 1 (the side surface on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 1). The evaporator 13 is disposed inside the main body housing 1 in such a manner that the gap between adjacent heat sinks 13a in the evaporator 13 described later faces the air inlet 2 of the main body housing 1.

[0071] Figure 3 is a perspective external view of the evaporator 13 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 3 is a view of the evaporator 13 of the dehumidifying device as viewed from the front side of the main body housing 1.

[0072] As shown in Figure 3 the evaporator 13 has a plurality of (a large number of) heat sinks 13a and connecting pipes 13b connecting the plurality of heat sinks 13a.

[0073] The heat sink 13a is in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and is made of aluminum. A plurality of heat sinks 13a are arranged such that the faces of adjacent heat sinks 13a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat sinks 13a forms an air passage.

[0074] The connecting pipe 13b is cylindrical and made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 13b penetrates through the heat sink 13a, is arranged in multiple layers in the longitudinal direction of the heat sink 13a, and is bent into a meandering shape (U shape) multiple times at both ends of the heat sink 13a.

[0075] A plurality of heat sinks 13a are fixed to the straight pipe portion (the portion of the pipe extending linearly) of the connecting pipe 13b. The plurality of heat sinks 13a are stacked at a predetermined interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 13b.

[0076] Figure 4 It is a perspective external view of the condenser 11 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 4 It is a view of observing the condenser 11 of the dehumidifying device from the front side of the main body housing 1.

[0077] As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, the condenser 11 is arranged on the rear side of the main body housing 1 relative to the evaporator 13 (the side on the other side (inner side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 1). The condenser 11 is arranged in the main body housing 1 such that the gap between adjacent heat sinks 11a in the condenser 11 described later faces the evaporator 13.

[0078] The condenser 11 has a plurality of (a large number of) heat sinks 11a and a connecting pipe 11b that connects the plurality of heat sinks 13a.

[0079] The heat sink 11a is in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and is made of aluminum. A plurality of heat sinks 11a are arranged such that the faces of adjacent heat sinks 11a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat sinks 11a forms an air passage.

[0080] The connecting pipe 11b is cylindrical and made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 11b penetrates through the heat sink 11a, is arranged in multiple layers in the longitudinal direction of the heat sink 11a, and is bent into a meandering shape (U shape) multiple times at both ends of the heat sink 11a. A plurality of heat sinks 11a are fixed to the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 11b. The plurality of heat sinks 11a are stacked at a predetermined interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 11b.

[0081] As Figure 2As shown, the air supply unit 7 is configured as a so-called sirocco fan, which is composed of a spiral-shaped housing 7a that forms an air passage, an impeller (not shown) that rotates within the housing 7a to boost pressure and supply air, and an electric motor (not shown) that rotationally drives the impeller. The air supply unit 7 causes the refrigeration cycle 6 to function (operate) by ventilating the refrigeration cycle 6.

[0082] The housing 7a has an inlet 7b through which air flows in and an outlet 7c through which air flows out, and has a tongue (not shown) that directs the pressurized air toward the outlet. Further, the outlet 7c is configured to communicate with the blowout port 3 of the main housing 1.

[0083] As Figure 1 shown, the water storage tank unit 8 is disposed in a space (not shown) at the lower part of the main housing 1 and is detachable from the front surface of the main housing 1 (the side surface on the front side (the front side) in the depth direction of the main housing 1). The detaching and attaching direction of the water storage tank unit 8 is the front-rear direction (the depth direction) of the main housing 1.

[0084] Above the water storage tank unit 8, the air supply unit 7 and the evaporator 13 are disposed. The water storage tank unit 8 has a flat box-shaped tank 8a with an open top surface and a funnel-shaped water collection cover (not shown). The water collection cover is detachably provided on the upper part of the tank 8a. That is, the water storage tank unit 8 is structured such that the condensed water condensed on the evaporator 13 is collected by the funnel-shaped water collection cover and flows into the tank 8a.

[0085] As Figure 2 shown, when viewed from the front side of the main housing 1, the control unit 9 is disposed at the upper part of the main housing 1. The control unit 9 controls the electric motor of the air supply unit 7 and the compressor 10 based on the input from the switch of the operation unit 5 pressed by the user.

[0086] An air passage 14 is formed within the main housing 1. The air passage 14 is an air passage that sucks air from the suction port 2 through the air supply unit 7 and discharges the sucked air to the blowout port 3 via the evaporator 13, the condenser 11, and the air supply unit 7 in sequence.

[0087] In the air passage 14, the indoor air sucked from the suction port 2 is supplied to the evaporator 13. At this time, the moisture in the air condenses on the evaporator 13, becoming dry air. And since the air is supplied to the condenser 11, it is sucked by the air supply unit 7 in a state where the humidity is reduced and the temperature is increased, and is blown into the room from the blowout port 3. Thereby, the washed clothes etc. dried in the room are dried.

[0088] Figure 5 (A) of is a front view of the filter unit 33 provided at the suction port 2 in front of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5(B) is a front view showing the state after opening the filter section 33 of the suction port 2 provided in the front of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 (C) is a front view showing the state after opening the lid portion 22 provided in the front of the main body casing 1 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 6A is a perspective view of the opening 21 provided in the front of the main body casing 1 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view showing the state in which the opening pin portion 25 is located on the front side of the main body casing 1. Figure 6B is a perspective view of the opening 21 provided in the front of the main body casing 1 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view showing the state in which the opening pin portion 25 has moved to the rear side of the main body casing 1.

[0089] As Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B shown, one of the features of the present embodiment is that the dehumidifying device has a waste disposal mechanism portion 20 that can discharge the refrigerant into the atmosphere.

[0090] Thereby, the user or waste collector of the dehumidifying device can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant that can be discharged into the atmosphere without problems in terms of environmental load into the atmosphere, and thus has the effect of being able to easily dispose of the dehumidifying device.

[0091] In addition, the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 can be operated from the outside of the main body casing 1.

[0092] Specifically, the main body casing 1 has an opening 21 that communicates the outside of the main body casing 1 with the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 and a lid portion 22 provided in the opening 21.

[0093] The lid portion 22 is provided in the opening 21 in a manner that can be opened and closed, and is configured such that when the lid portion 22 is opened, the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 can be operated via the opening 21.

[0094] The lid portion 22 is a substantially flat plate (including a flat plate) having a horizontally long quadrilateral shape and is a part of the front of the main body casing 1. The surface on one side (inner side) of the lid portion 22 faces the waste disposal mechanism portion 20, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the lid portion 22 becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body casing 1.

[0095] The lid portion 22 is smaller than the horizontally long quadrilateral-shaped opening 21 provided in the front of the main body casing 1, and the peripheral portion of the lid portion 22 is connected to the opening edge of the opening 21 by a hinge portion 23 having flexibility, for example. The lid portion 22 is structured to be rotatable relative to the opening 21 via the hinge portion 23.

[0096] The front surface of the main body housing 1, the lid portion 22, and the hinge portion 23 are integrally formed of resin. When the lid portion 22 is opened, the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 can be operated from the opening portion 21.

[0097] Thus, the operation of the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 can be performed without tools, so that the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant that is not a problem in terms of environmental load into the atmosphere, and thus has the effect of being able to easily dispose of the dehumidifying device.

[0098] Figure 7A FIG. is a cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the side of the waste disposal mechanism portion 20. In addition, Figure 7A is a state in which the pressing plate 29 of the perforating pin portion 25 is in contact with the stopper portion 27, and the perforating pin portion 25 is located on the front side of the main body housing 1.

[0099] Figure 7B FIG. is a cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the side of the waste disposal mechanism portion 20. In addition, Figure 7B is a view showing a state in which the stopper portion 27 separates from the pressing plate 29 of the perforating pin portion 25, the perforating pin portion 25 moves toward the rear side of the main body housing 1, and the front end of the perforating pin 30 is inserted into the connecting pipe 13b.

[0100] Figure 8 FIG. is a cross-sectional perspective view of the opening portion 21 and the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 on the front surface of the main body housing 1 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] As Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 shown, when the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 is operated, the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 forms a hole 24 in the refrigeration cycle 6. The waste disposal mechanism portion 20 has a perforating pin portion 25, a guiding portion 26, a stopper portion 27, and a connecting pipe support portion 28. The perforating pin portion 25 moves along the guiding portion 26, thereby forming a hole 24 in the refrigeration cycle 6, and the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 is discharged into the atmosphere.

[0102] The perforating pin portion 25 has a pressing plate 29 and a perforating pin 30.

[0103] The pressing plate 29 has a flat plate shape, and the surface on the other side (the outside of the main body housing 1) of the pressing plate 29 faces the surface on one side of the lid portion 22 (the surface on the inner side of the main body housing 1). The perforating pin 30 extends from the surface on one side of the pressing plate 29 toward the inside of the main body housing 1 along the moving direction of the perforating pin portion 25.

[0104] The opening pin 30 is a protrusion that projects from one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 29 toward the inside of the main body housing 1 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 1) and has a sharp front end. The opening pin 30 is provided perpendicular to the surface of one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 29.

[0105] The guiding portion 26 has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 1 and is provided at the front of the main body housing 1. The guiding portion 26 is disposed between the cover portion 22 and the connecting pipe 13b extending from the evaporator 13.

[0106] The opening pin portion 25 is disposed inside the guiding portion 26. A slight gap is provided between the inner surface of the guiding portion 26 and the peripheral portion of the pressure plate 29 of the opening pin portion 25, and the opening pin portion 25 is arranged to be movable in the central axis direction of the guiding portion 26 (the front-rear direction of the main body housing 1).

[0107] The guiding portion 26 has a hole 31 (see Figure 6B ) on its circumferential surface with a central axis extending in the left-right direction of the main body housing 1 (a horizontal direction perpendicular to the central axis of the guiding portion 26). A stopper portion 27 is movably disposed in the hole 31 of the guiding portion 26.

[0108] The stopper portion 27 has a horizontally long bar shape and restricts the movement of the opening pin portion 25 in the front-rear direction in the main body housing 1. Normally, the stopper portion 27 projects into the guiding portion 26 through the hole 31 of the guiding portion 26. In this state, since the stopper portion 27 projects toward the surface side of one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 29 of the opening pin portion 25, even if the opening pin portion 25 is to be pressed into the main body housing 1, the pressure plate 29 contacts the stopper portion 27 and the opening pin portion 25 cannot be pressed into the main body housing 1.

[0109] On the other hand, when the stopper portion 27 is moved through the hole 31 of the guiding portion 26 to the outside of the guiding portion 26 and is in a state of not projecting into the guiding portion 26, in the case of pressing the opening pin portion 25 into the main body housing 1, the pressure plate 29 does not contact the stopper portion 27 and the opening pin portion 25 can be pressed into the main body housing 1.

[0110] Thus, there is an effect that since the operation of the waste disposal mechanism portion 20 cannot be performed accidentally, it is possible to prevent the user of the dehumidifying device from erroneously discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere and rendering the dehumidifying device inoperable. In addition, since it is possible to confirm from the outside the state in which the pressure plate 29 of the opening pin portion 25 is pressed in, waste collectors and the like can visually confirm the presence or absence of refrigerant discharge, which has the effect of preventing misjudgment.

[0111] When viewed from the central axis direction of the connecting pipe 13b of the evaporator 13 (the side of the main body case 1), the connecting pipe support portion 28 has a substantially C-shaped configuration with an opening on the front side of the main body case 1, and is disposed opposite to the opening pin 30 of the opening pin portion 25, supporting the lower surface side, the upper surface side, and the rear side of the main body case 1 of the connecting pipe 13b of the lowermost part.

[0112] In addition, the surface of the main body case 1 having the opening 21 and the lid portion 22 has a display portion 32 (see Figure 1 ) that displays the operation method of the disposal mechanism portion 20. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a user of the dehumidifying device from accidentally operating the disposal mechanism portion 20 and discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, rendering the dehumidifying device inoperable. In addition, the user of the dehumidifying device or a waste collector can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant, which is not a problem in terms of environmental load, into the atmosphere. Therefore, there is an effect that the dehumidifying device can be easily disposed of.

[0113] In addition, the suction port 2 is provided with a filter portion 33 for collecting dust that can be detachably attached. The filter portion 33 covers the opening 21 and the lid portion 22. Thereby, there is an effect of preventing the refrigerant of the dehumidifying device from being discharged into the atmosphere due to a user accidentally operating the disposal mechanism portion 20, rendering the dehumidifying device inoperable.

[0114] Next, a method for discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere will be described.

[0115] As shown in Figure 5 , Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B , when the user discharges the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere and then discards the dehumidifying device, first, the filter portion 33 is opened (removed) from the suction port 2.

[0116] After the filter portion 33 is opened from the suction port 2, the suction port 2, the opening 21, and the lid portion 22 are exposed, so that the user can perform the operation while observing the display portion 32 (see Figure 1 ).

[0117] Next, the user opens the lid portion 22 from the opening 21 outdoors and moves the stopper portion 27 outward of the guide portion 26.

[0118] Next, the user uses a tool to press the opening pin portion 25 into the inside of the main body housing 1. In this way, the front end of the opening pin 30 is inserted into the front side of the main body housing 1 of the connecting pipe 13b, and a hole 24 is formed in the connecting pipe 13b. Refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 6 is discharged into the atmosphere from this hole 24.

[0119] When the opening pin portion 25 is pressed into the inside of the main body housing 1, the upper side, the lower side of the connecting pipe 13b, and the rear side of the main body housing 1 are supported by the connecting pipe support portion 28, so that the movement of the connecting pipe 13b in the vertical direction and the rear side of the main body housing 1 can be suppressed.

[0120] When the front end of the opening pin 30 is inserted into the connecting pipe 13b near the connecting pipe support portion 28, the movement of the connecting pipe 13b in the vertical direction and the rear side of the main body housing 1 is suppressed, so that the front end of the opening pin 30 can be easily inserted into the connecting pipe 13b. In addition, in the present embodiment, a structure in which the opening pin portion 25 acts directly by pressing the pressing plate 29 is adopted, but it may also be configured to constitute a fulcrum and a force point and utilize the lever principle to reduce the operating force.

[0121] (Second Embodiment)

[0122] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0123] Figure 9 (A) of is a front view of the filter portion 33 of the suction port 2 provided on the front surface of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 (B) of is a front view showing a state in which the filter portion 33 of the suction port 2 provided on the front surface of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is opened. Figure 9 (C) of is a front view showing a state in which the cover portion 42 on the front surface of the main body housing 1 of the dehumidifying device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is opened. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the opening portion 41 on the front surface of the main body housing 1 of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0124] As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, the difference from the first embodiment is that, first, the main body housing 1 has a locking mechanism 40 to prevent the accidental operation of the waste mechanism portion 44. The user or the like can operate the waste mechanism portion 44 after releasing the locking mechanism 40.

[0125] The locking mechanism 40 has an opening 41 provided in the main body housing 1, which communicates the outside of the main body housing 1 with the waste mechanism portion 44; a cover portion 42 provided at the opening 41; and a connecting portion 43 that connects the opening edge of the opening 41 and the peripheral portion of the cover portion 42. The cover portion 42 of the locking mechanism 40 can be opened from the opening 41 by a tool, and when the cover portion 42 is opened from the opening 41, the waste mechanism portion 44 can be operated via the opening 41.

[0126] Specifically, the cover portion 42 is a substantially flat plate (including a flat plate) in the shape of a horizontally long quadrilateral, and is a part of the front surface of the main body housing 1. One side (inner side) surface of the cover portion 42 faces the waste mechanism portion 44, and the other side (outer side) surface of the cover portion 42 becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body housing 1.

[0127] The cover portion 42 is smaller than the opening 41 in the shape of a horizontally long quadrilateral provided on the front surface of the main body housing 1, and there is an annular gap between the cover portion 42 and the opening 41. A plurality of rod-shaped connecting portions 43 extend from the peripheral portion of the cover portion 42 to the opening edge of the opening 41.

[0128] The front surface of the main body housing 1, the cover portion 42, and the plurality of connecting portions 43 are integrally formed, and the material is resin. When a tool is inserted into the gap between the cover portion 42 and the opening 41 to cut the plurality of connecting portions 43, or when the cover portion 42 is struck with a tool, the plurality of connecting portions 43 are cut, and the cover portion 42 can be opened from the opening 41. The waste mechanism portion 44 can be operated from the opening 41 where the cover portion 42 has been opened.

[0129] As a result, there is the following effect: Since the waste mechanism portion 44 cannot be accidentally operated, it is possible to prevent the user of the dehumidifying device or the like from erroneously discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere and rendering the dehumidifying device inoperable.

[0130] Figure 11A It is a cross-sectional view showing the waste mechanism portion 44 of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 11A It is a state where the pressing plate 49 of the opening pin portion 45 contacts the stopper portion 47 and the opening pin portion 45 is located on the front side of the main body housing 1. In addition, Figure 11B It is a cross-sectional view showing the waste mechanism portion 44 of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 11B It is a view showing a state where the stopper portion 47 separates from the pressing plate 49 of the opening pin portion 45, the opening pin portion 45 moves to the rear side of the main body housing 1, and the front end of the opening pin 50 is inserted into the connecting pipe 13b. Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the opening 41 in the front surface of the main body housing 1 and the waste mechanism portion 44 of the dehumidifying device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] As Figure 11A 、Figure 11B and Figure 12 As shown in and

[0132] , the difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment lies in the structure of the waste mechanism part 44.

[0132] The waste mechanism part 44 has a perforating pin part 45, a guiding part 46, a stop part 47, and a connecting pipe support part 48.

[0133] The perforating pin part 45 has a pressing plate 49, a perforating pin 50, and a connecting pipe fixing pin 51.

[0134] The pressing plate 49 is in the shape of a flat plate, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the pressing plate 49 faces the surface on one side of the cover part 42 (the inner surface side of the main body housing 1). The perforating pin 50 and the connecting pipe fixing pin 51 extend from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 49 toward the inside of the main body housing 1.

[0135] The perforating pin 50 is a protrusion that protrudes from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 49 toward the inside of the main body housing 1 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 1) and has a sharp front end. The perforating pin 50 is provided perpendicular to the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 49.

[0136] The connecting pipe fixing pin 51 is a protrusion that protrudes from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 49 toward the inner side of the main body housing 1 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 1). The connecting pipe fixing pin 51 is arranged above the perforating pin 50.

[0137] The guiding part 46 has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 1, and is provided on the front surface of the main body housing 1. The guiding part 46 is arranged between the cover part 42 and the connecting pipe 13b extending from the evaporator 13.

[0138] The perforating pin part 45 is arranged inside the guiding part 46. A slight gap is formed between the inner surface of the guiding part 46 and the peripheral part of the pressing plate 49 of the perforating pin part 45, and the perforating pin part 45 is arranged to be movable in the central axis direction of the guiding part 46 (the front - rear direction of the main body housing 1).

[0139] The guiding part 46 has a hole 52 (refer to Figure 10 ) on its circumferential surface, with the central axis extending in the left - right direction of the main body housing 1 (perpendicular and horizontal to the central axis of the guiding part 46). The stop part 47 is arranged to be movable in the hole 52 of the guiding part. Figure 10 )

[0140] The stopper portion 47 is in the shape of a horizontally long bar, restricting the movement of the opening pin portion 45 in the front-rear direction within the main body housing 1. Usually, the stopper portion 47 protrudes into the guide portion 46 through the hole 52 of the guide portion 46. In this state, since the stopper portion 47 protrudes toward the side (inner side) of the pressing plate 49 of the opening pin portion 45, even if the opening pin portion 45 is to be pressed inward into the main body housing 1, the pressing plate 49 contacts the stopper portion 47 and the opening pin portion 45 cannot be pressed inward into the main body housing 1.

[0141] On the other hand, when the stopper portion 47 is moved outward of the guide portion 46 through the hole 52 of the guide portion 46 and does not protrude into the guide portion 46, in the case of pressing the opening pin portion 45 inward into the main body housing 1, the pressing plate 49 does not contact the stopper portion 47, so the opening pin portion 45 can be pressed inward into the main body housing 1.

[0142] When viewed from the central axis direction of the connecting pipe 13b of the evaporator 13 (side of the main body housing 1), the connecting pipe support portion 48 is in a substantially U-shaped with an upward opening, and is disposed opposite to the opening pin 50 of the opening pin portion 45, supporting the lower surface side of the lowermost connecting pipe 13b and the rear side of the connecting pipe 13b of the main body housing 1.

[0143] Next, a method of discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 of the dehumidifying device to the atmosphere will be described.

[0144] As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, when a user or the like discharges the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 of the dehumidifying device to the atmosphere and then discards the dehumidifying device, first, the filter portion 33 is opened from the suction port 2.

[0145] When the filter portion 33 is opened from the suction port 2, the suction port 2, the opening portion 41, and the cover portion 42 appear, so the user can perform the operation while observing the display portion 32 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0146] Next, the user inserts a tool into the gap between the cover portion 42 and the opening portion 41 outdoors, cuts the plurality of connecting portions 43, or cuts the plurality of connecting portions 43 by hitting the cover portion 42 with a tool, and opens the cover portion 42 from the opening portion 41. Then, the stopper portion 47 is moved outward of the guide portion 46.

[0147] As Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 12As shown, next, the user etc. use a tool to press the opening pin portion 45 into the main body housing 1. In this way, the lower end of the connecting pipe fixing pin 51 contacts the upper surface of the connecting pipe 13b extending from the evaporator 13, suppressing the upward movement of the connecting pipe 13b.

[0148] In addition, the lower surface of the connecting pipe 13b and the rear side of the connecting pipe 13b in the main body housing 1 are supported by the connecting pipe support portion 48, so that the downward movement of the connecting pipe 13b and the movement of the connecting pipe 13b toward the rear side of the main body housing 1 can also be suppressed.

[0149] Next, when the user further presses the opening pin portion 45 into the main body housing 1 using a tool, the front end of the opening pin 50 is inserted into the front side of the main body housing 1 of the connecting pipe 13b, and a hole 53 is formed in the connecting pipe 13b. Refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 6 is discharged to the atmosphere from the hole 53.

[0150] (Third Embodiment)

[0151] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0152] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which the first lid portion 72a and the second lid portion 72b are opened from the main body housing 61. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0153] As Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 shown, the main body housing 61 is substantially box-shaped (including a box shape) and can be provided on the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56. Specifically, a suction port 62 and a blowout port 63 as openings are provided on the bottom surface of the main body housing 61.

[0154] The main body housing 61 is provided on the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56. An opening is formed in the ceiling 58 of the bathroom 56, and through this opening, the suction port 62 and the blowout port 63 communicate with the inside of the bathroom 56.

[0155] Inside the main body housing 1, there are a refrigeration cycle 6, a blower section 7, a control section 9, and a blower passage 64.

[0156] The refrigeration cycle 6 is a structure in which a compressor 10, a condenser 11, an expander 12, and an evaporator 13 are connected in a ring in sequence to circulate a refrigerant. In addition, as the refrigerant, a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less is used. The compressor 10, the condenser 11, the expander 12, and the evaporator 13 are connected by a refrigerant pipe 69, which is a structure for refrigerant circulation. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0157] The control unit 9 is disposed at the lower part of the main body housing 61. The control unit 9 controls the motor of the air supply unit 7 and the compressor 10 based on the input of the switch of the operation unit (not shown) pressed by the user.

[0158] An air supply path 64 is formed in the main body housing 61. The air supply path 64 is an air path that sucks the air in the bathroom 56 from the suction port 62 through the air supply unit 7 and discharges the sucked air to the blowout port 63 via the evaporator 13, the air supply unit 7, and the condenser 11 in sequence.

[0159] In the air supply path 64, the air in the bathroom 56 sucked from the suction port 62 is supplied to the evaporator 13. At this time, the moisture in the air condenses on the evaporator 13 to become dry air. And since the air is supplied to the condenser 11, in a state where the humidity decreases and the temperature rises, the air is blown into the bathroom 56 from the blowout port 63 through the air supply unit 7. Thereby, the dried air is conveyed into the bathroom 56 to dry the washed clothes being dried, etc.

[0160] In addition, a drain pan 65, a drain pipe 66, and a drain pump 67 are provided in the main body housing 1.

[0161] The drain pan 65 is disposed below the evaporator 13 and stores the condensed water dripping from the evaporator 13. The drain pipe 66 extends from the drain pan 65 to the outside of the main body housing 61. The drain pump 67 is disposed in the drain pan 65 and is connected to the drain pipe 66.

[0162] The water condensed on the evaporator 13 drips from the evaporator 13 into the drain pan 65, and the condensed water accumulated in the drain pan 65 is discharged from the drain pan 65 to the outside of the main body housing 61 via the drain pump 67 and the drain pipe 66.

[0163] The dehumidifying device has a waste disposal mechanism unit 70 that can discharge the refrigerant into the atmosphere, and the waste disposal mechanism unit 70 is configured to be operable from the outside of the main body housing 61.

[0164] Thus, the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the refrigerant that is not a problem to be discharged into the atmosphere in terms of environmental load, and thus has the effect of being able to easily dispose of the dehumidifying device.

[0165] Specifically, the main body housing 61 is substantially box-shaped (including box shape). With the main body housing 61 disposed on the back surface 57 of the ceiling (in a state where the suction port 62 and the blowout port 63 are located below the main body housing 61), on the first surface 61a which is one of the plurality of side surfaces of the main body housing 61, there is a first opening 71a that communicates the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 with the outside of the main body housing 61, and a first lid portion 72a that covers the first opening 71a and is detachable from the first surface 61a.

[0166] In addition, in a state where the main body housing 61 is disposed on the back surface 57 of the ceiling, the first surface 61a may also be the top surface 61c of the main body housing 61.

[0167] The first lid portion 72a is a substantially flat plate (including flat plate) in a horizontally long quadrilateral shape, and is fixed to the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61 where the first opening 71a is provided by screws 73a, and is a detachable structure. The surface on one side (inner side) of the first lid portion 72a faces the waste disposal mechanism portion 70, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the first lid portion 72a becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body housing 61. When the first lid portion 72a is opened from the main body housing 61, the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 can be operated from the outside of the main body housing 61.

[0168] In addition, the main body housing 61 has, on the second surface 61b which is a side surface different from the first surface 61a among the plurality of side surfaces: a second opening 71b that communicates the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6 with the outside of the main body housing 61; and a second lid portion 72b that covers the second opening 71b and is detachable from the second surface 61b.

[0169] In addition, in a state where the main body housing 61 is disposed on the back surface 57 of the ceiling, when the first surface 61a is one of the side surfaces of the main body housing 61, the second surface 61b may also be the top surface 61c of the main body housing 61.

[0170] The second lid portion 72b is a substantially flat plate (including flat plate) in a horizontally long quadrilateral shape, and is fixed to the second surface 61b of the main body housing 61 where the second opening 71b is provided by screws 73b, and is a detachable structure. The second opening 71b communicates with the space 68 where the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6 is disposed.

[0171] One side (inner side) surface of the second cover portion 72b forms a part of the inner surface of the space 68 where the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6 is arranged, and the other side (outer side) surface of the second cover portion 72b forms a part of the outer surface of the main body housing 61. In addition, the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 opens a hole 74 described later on the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6.

[0172] Figure 16A It is a diagram showing a cross-section of the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 of the dehumidifying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 16A It is a state where the pressing plate 79 of the hole-opening pin portion 75 is in contact with the stopper portion 77, and the hole-opening pin portion 75 is located on the side of the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61. Figure 16B It is a diagram showing a cross-section of the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 of the dehumidifying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 16B It is a diagram showing a state where the stopper portion 77 separates from the pressing plate 79 of the hole-opening pin portion 75, the hole-opening pin portion 75 moves inwardly of the main body housing 61, and the front end of the hole-opening pin 80 is inserted into the refrigerant pipe 69.

[0173] As Figure 15 、 Figure 16A and Figure 16B shown, by operating the waste disposal mechanism portion 70, the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 opens a hole 74 in the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6.

[0174] The waste disposal mechanism portion 70 includes a hole-opening pin portion 75, a guide portion 76, a stopper portion 77, and a connecting pipe support portion 78. The hole-opening pin portion 75 moves along the guide portion 76, thereby opening a hole 74 in the refrigeration cycle 6, and the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 is discharged into the atmosphere.

[0175] The hole-opening pin portion 75 includes a pressing plate 79 and a hole-opening pin 80.

[0176] The pressing plate 79 has a flat plate shape, and the other side (outer side) surface of the pressing plate 79 faces the one side surface (inner surface side of the main body housing 61) of the first cover portion 72a. The hole-opening pin 80 extends from the one side (inner side) surface of the pressing plate 79 toward the inside of the main body housing 61 in the moving direction of the hole-opening pin portion 75.

[0177] The hole-opening pin 80 is a protrusion that protrudes from the one side (inner side) surface of the pressing plate 79 toward the inside of the main body housing 61 (from the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61 toward the inside of the main body housing 61) and has a sharp front end. The hole-opening pin 80 is provided perpendicular to the one side (inner side) surface of the pressing plate 79.

[0178] The guiding portion 76 is provided on the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61 and has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending from the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61 toward the inside of the main body housing 61. The guiding portion 76 is disposed between the first lid portion 72a and the refrigerant pipe 69.

[0179] An opening pin portion 75 is provided inside the guiding portion 76. A slight gap is provided between the inner surface of the guiding portion 76 and the peripheral portion of the pressing plate 79 of the opening pin portion 75, and the opening pin portion 75 is arranged to be movable in the central axis direction of the guiding portion 76.

[0180] The guiding portion 76 has holes (not shown) on its peripheral surface with the central axis facing the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61 and extending in the left-right direction (perpendicular and horizontal to the central axis of the guiding portion 76). A stopper portion 77 is movably arranged in the holes of the guiding portion 76.

[0181] The stopper portion 77 has a horizontally long rod shape and restricts the movement of the opening pin portion 75. Usually, the stopper portion 77 protrudes into the guiding portion 76 through the hole of the guiding portion 76. In this state, since the stopper portion 77 protrudes toward the side (inner side) surface of the pressing plate 79 of the opening pin portion 75, even if the opening pin portion 75 is to be pressed into the main body housing 1, the pressing plate 79 contacts the stopper portion 77 and the opening pin portion 75 cannot be pressed into the inside of the main body housing 61.

[0182] On the other hand, when the stopper portion 77 is moved through the hole of the guiding portion 76 to the outside of the guiding portion 76 and does not protrude into the guiding portion 76, when the opening pin portion 75 is to be pressed inward into the main body housing 61, the pressing plate 79 does not contact the stopper portion 77 and the opening pin portion 75 can be pressed into the main body housing 61.

[0183] Thus, an operation of accidentally discarding the mechanism portion 70 cannot be performed, so there is an effect of preventing the user of the dehumidifying device from erroneously discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere. In addition, since the pressing of the pressing plate 79 of the opening pin portion 75 can be visually confirmed from the outside, waste collectors and the like can visually confirm the presence or absence of refrigerant discharge, so there is an effect of preventing misjudgment.

[0184] When viewed from the central axis direction of the refrigerant pipe 69, the connecting pipe support portion 78 has a substantially C-shaped opening on the side of the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61, is disposed opposite to the opening pin 80 of the opening pin portion 75, and supports the lower side, the upper side, and the side surface of the refrigerant pipe 69 opposite to the first surface 61a of the main body housing 1 of the refrigerant pipe 69.

[0185] In addition, the first surface 61a or the top surface 61c of the main body housing 61 having the first opening 71a and the first lid portion 72a has a display portion 32 that shows the operation method of the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 (see Figure 14 ). Thus, it is possible to prevent the operation of the waste disposal mechanism portion 70 from being accidentally performed and the user of the dehumidifying device from discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere. In addition, the user or the waste collector of the dehumidifying device can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant that can be discharged into the atmosphere without problems in terms of environmental load into the atmosphere, so that the dehumidifying device can be easily disposed of.

[0186] Next, a method of discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere will be described.

[0187] When the user discharges the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 6 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere and then disposes of the dehumidifying device, first, the dehumidifying device is removed from the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56. The dehumidifying device is carried outdoors, and when the top surface 61c having the display portion 32 is placed on the ground with the top facing upward, the user can perform the operation while observing the display portion 32.

[0188] Next, the user opens the first lid portion 72a from the first opening 71a outdoors, opens the second lid portion 72b from the second opening 71b, and moves the stopper portion 77 outward of the guide portion 76.

[0189] Next, the user presses the opening pin portion 75 into the inside of the main body housing 61 using a tool. In this way, the front end of the opening pin 80 is inserted into the first surface 61a side of the main body housing 61 of the refrigerant pipe 69 having the first opening 71a and the first lid portion 72a, and a hole 74 is formed in the refrigerant pipe 69. The refrigerant having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 6 is discharged into the atmosphere from the hole 74.

[0190] When the opening pin portion 75 is pressed into the inside of the main body housing 61, the upper side, the lower side of the refrigerant pipe 69, and the side surface side opposite to the first surface 61a of the main body housing having the first opening 71a and the first lid portion 72a are supported by the connecting pipe support portion 78, so that the movement of the refrigerant pipe 69 in the vertical direction and the side surface side opposite to the first surface 61a of the main body housing 61 can be suppressed.

[0191] The front end of the opening pin 80 is inserted into the refrigerant pipe 69 near the connection pipe support portion 78 of the refrigerant pipe 69. At this time, the movement of the refrigerant pipe 69 in the vertical direction and the side surface (the first surface 61a) opposite to the side surface of the main body case 1 having the first opening portion 71a and the first lid portion 72a is suppressed, so that the refrigerant pipe 69 can be easily inserted.

[0192] In addition, in the present embodiment, the structure is configured such that the opening pin portion 75 directly acts by pressing the pressing plate 79, but it may also be configured to form a fulcrum and a force point and use the lever principle to reduce the operating force.

[0193] In a state where the main body case 61 is provided on the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56, the first opening portion 71a capable of operating the disposal mechanism portion 70 is provided on one of the side surfaces of the main body case 61 or the first surface 61a that is the top surface 61c. Therefore, in a state where the main body case 61 is provided on the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56, the operation cannot be performed from inside the bathroom 56. As a result, it is possible to suppress the situation where the disposal mechanism portion 70 is erroneously operated from inside the bathroom 56 in a state where the main body case 61 is provided on the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56.

[0194] In addition, when the dehumidifying device is removed from the ceiling back surface 57 of the bathroom 56 and the second lid portion 72b is opened from the second opening portion 71b outdoors, the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6 having the hole 74 opened by the disposal mechanism portion 70 communicates with the outside of the main body case 61. And after the first lid portion 72a is opened from the first opening portion 71a, the disposal mechanism portion 70 can be operated via the first opening portion 71a. When the disposal mechanism portion 70 is operated, the disposal mechanism portion 70 opens the hole 74 in the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6.

[0195] Thereby, the refrigerant blows out from the hole 74 of the refrigerant pipe 69 of the refrigeration cycle 6, and the blown-out refrigerant is discharged to the outside of the main body case 61 via the second opening portion 71b. In this way, the refrigerant is discharged from a surface different from the surface having the disposal mechanism portion 70, so that the safety is improved.

[0196] In addition, the first lid portion 72a and the second lid portion 72b may be integrally formed as Figure 15 shown. Thereby, if the screws 73a and 73b are not removed from the main body case 61 and the integrally formed first lid portion 72a and second lid portion 72b are opened from the first opening portion 71a and the second opening portion 71b of the main body case 61, respectively, the disposal mechanism portion 70 cannot be operated from the first opening portion 71a.

[0197] Thus, when operating the waste disposal mechanism unit 70, users or the like will not forget to open the second lid portion 72b from the second opening portion 71b, so that the refrigerant blown out from the hole 74 of the refrigerant pipe 69 in the refrigeration cycle 6 can be reliably discharged to the outside of the main body casing 61 via the second opening portion 71b.

[0198] In addition, the first opening portion 71a may be provided at the lower part of the first surface 61a which is one of the side surfaces of the main body casing 61, and the second opening portion 71b may be provided at the lower part of the second surface 61b which is a side surface of the main body casing 61 adjacent to the first surface 61a. Further, a display portion 32 for displaying the operation method of the waste disposal mechanism unit 70 may be provided on the top surface 61c of the main body casing 61.

[0199] Thus, when the user or waste collector of the dehumidifying device removes the dehumidifying device from the bathroom 56 for waste disposal, when operating the waste disposal mechanism unit 70 while reading the display portion 32 outdoors, in a state where the top surface 61c of the main body casing 61 faces upward, it is easy to operate the waste disposal mechanism unit 70, and the refrigerant blown out from the hole 74 of the refrigerant pipe 69 in the refrigeration cycle 6 can be discharged from the second opening portion 71b at the lower part of the side surface. Thus, it is easy to discharge the refrigerant below the person operating the waste disposal mechanism unit 70, so the safety is improved.

[0200] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0201] Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0202] In the existing dehumidifying device as described above, after the refrigerant is recovered or discharged into the atmosphere, malfunction may occur, so there is a problem that it is not preferable in terms of safety.

[0203] Therefore, in the present embodiment, a dehumidifying device that cannot operate after the refrigerant is recovered or discharged into the atmosphere is provided.

[0204] One aspect of the present invention is a dehumidifying device, which includes: a refrigeration cycle in which at least a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator are sequentially connected in a loop within a main body housing having a suction port and a blowout port; a blower unit that enables the above refrigeration cycle to function; a control unit that controls the above refrigeration cycle and the above blower unit; and a power cord electrically connected to the above control unit. The above refrigeration cycle uses a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less, and has a waste disposal mechanism unit capable of discharging the above refrigerant into the atmosphere. When the waste disposal mechanism unit is operated to discharge the above refrigerant into the atmosphere, the operation of the above refrigeration cycle and the above blower unit cannot be carried out. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0205] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is a waste disposal mechanism unit capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, and a structure in which when the waste disposal mechanism unit is operated to discharge the refrigerant into the atmosphere, the operation of the refrigeration cycle and the blower unit cannot be carried out. Thus, during the process of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, it is impossible to misoperate in a state where a small amount of refrigerant remains or in a state where there is no refrigerant, so that the effect of being able to avoid a state that is not preferably safe can be obtained.

[0206] Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0207] Figure 17 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 18 is Figure 17 a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of

[0208] As Figure 17 and Figure 18 shown, the main body housing 101 has a longitudinally long substantially box shape (including a box shape). Specifically, a suction port 102 is disposed on the front surface of the main body housing 101 (the side surface on one side (the front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 101). A blowout port 103 is disposed on the upper part of the main body housing 101. The blowout port 103 has a horizontally long quadrilateral shape and opens above and at the rear of the main body housing 101.

[0209] On the rear side of the top surface of the main body housing 101 (the side surface side on the other side (inner side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 101), there is a louver 104 that changes the direction of the wind from the air outlet 103. On the front side of the top surface of the main body housing 101 (one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 101), an operation unit 105 is provided. The operation unit 105 has a plurality of switches for turning on and off the power supply and changing the operation mode, etc.

[0210] Inside the main body housing 101, there are a refrigeration cycle 106, a blower unit 107, a water storage tank unit 108, and a control unit 109.

[0211] The refrigeration cycle 106 is a structure in which a compressor 110, a condenser 111, an expander 112, and an evaporator 113 are connected in series in a loop to circulate the refrigerant. In addition, as the refrigerant, a refrigerant with a global warming potential (Global Warming Potential (GWP)) of 10 or less is used. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0212] The evaporator 113 is disposed on the front side of the main body housing 101 (the side surface side on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 101). The evaporator 113 is disposed inside the main body housing 101 in such a manner that the gap between adjacent heat dissipation fins 113a in the evaporator 113 described later faces the suction port 102 of the main body housing 101.

[0213] Figure 19 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the evaporator 113 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 19 It is a view of observing the evaporator 113 of the dehumidifying device from the front side of the main body housing 101.

[0214] As Figure 19 shown, the evaporator 113 has a plurality of heat dissipation fins 113a and connecting pipes 113b that connect the plurality of heat dissipation fins 113a.

[0215] The heat dissipation fins 113a are in the shape of a long and narrow quadrilateral plate, and the material is aluminum. The plurality of heat dissipation fins 113a are arranged in such a manner that the surfaces of adjacent heat dissipation fins 113a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat dissipation fins 113a forms an air passage.

[0216] The connecting pipes 113b are in the shape of a cylinder, and the material is copper. The cylindrical connecting pipes 113b penetrate the heat dissipation fins 113a, are provided in multiple layers in the long side direction of the heat dissipation fins 113a, and are bent into a meandering shape (U shape) multiple times at both ends of the heat dissipation fins 113a.

[0217] A plurality of heat dissipation fins 113a are fixed to the straight pipe portion (the portion of the pipe extending linearly) of the connecting pipe 113b. The plurality of heat dissipation fins 113a are stacked at a prescribed interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 113b.

[0218] Figure 20 is a perspective external view of the condenser 111 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 20 is a view of the condenser 111 of the dehumidifying device as viewed from the front side of the main body housing 101.

[0219] As Figure 18 and Figure 20 shown, the condenser 111 is disposed at a position closer to the rear side of the main body housing 101 (the side on the other side (inner side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 101) than the evaporator 113. The condenser 111 is disposed in the main body housing 101 such that the gap between adjacent heat dissipation fins 111a in the condenser 111 faces the evaporator 113.

[0220] The condenser 111 includes a plurality of (a large number of) heat dissipation fins 111a and a connecting pipe 111b that connects the plurality of heat dissipation fins 111a.

[0221] The heat dissipation fins 111a are in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and are made of aluminum. The plurality of heat dissipation fins 111a are disposed such that the surfaces of adjacent heat dissipation fins 111a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat dissipation fins 111a forms an air passage.

[0222] The connecting pipe 111b is cylindrical and is made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 111b penetrates through the heat dissipation fins 111a, is provided in multiple layers in the long side direction of the heat dissipation fins 111a, and is bent in a meandering shape (U shape) multiple times at both end portions of the heat dissipation fins 111a. A plurality of heat dissipation fins 111a are fixed to the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 111b. The plurality of heat dissipation fins 111a are stacked at a prescribed interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 111b.

[0223] As Figure 18 shown, the air supply unit 107 is configured as a so-called sirocco fan, which includes a spiral-shaped housing 107a that forms an air passage, an impeller (not shown) that is rotated within the housing 107a to increase pressure and supply air, and a motor (not shown) that rotationally drives the impeller. The air supply unit 107 causes the refrigeration cycle 106 to function by ventilating the refrigeration cycle 106.

[0224] The housing 107a has an air inlet 107b for air to flow in and an air outlet 107c for air to flow out, and has a tongue portion (not shown) that directs the pressurized air to the air outlet 107c. Further, the air outlet 107c is configured to communicate with the air outlet 103 of the main housing 101.

[0225] As Figure 17 shown, the water storage tank portion 108 is disposed in a space portion (not shown) at the lower part of the main housing 101 and is detachable from the front surface of the main housing 101 (the side surface on the front side (the front side) in the depth direction of the main housing 101). The detaching and attaching direction of the water storage tank portion 108 is the front-rear direction (the depth direction) of the main housing 101.

[0226] Above the water storage tank portion 108, a blower unit 107 and an evaporator 113 are disposed. The water storage tank portion 108 has a flat box-shaped tank 108a with an open top surface and a funnel-shaped water collection cover (not shown). The water collection cover is detachably provided on the upper part of the tank 108a. That is, the water storage tank portion 108 is structured such that the condensed water condensed in the evaporator 113 is collected by the funnel-shaped water collection cover and flows into the tank 108a.

[0227] As Figure 18 shown, when viewed from the front side of the main housing 101, the control unit 109 is disposed at the upper part of the main housing 101. The control unit 109 controls the motor of the blower unit 107 and the compressor 110 based on the input of the switch of the operation unit 105 pressed by the user.

[0228] An air supply passage 114 is formed in the main housing 101. The air supply passage 114 is an air passage that sucks air from the suction port 102 through the blower unit 107 and discharges the sucked air to the air outlet 103 via the evaporator 113, the condenser 111, and the blower unit 107 in sequence.

[0229] In the air supply passage 114, the indoor air sucked from the suction port 102 is supplied to the evaporator 113. At this time, the moisture in the air is condensed in the evaporator 113 to become dry air. And since it is supplied to the condenser 111, the air is sucked by the blower unit 107 in a state where the humidity is reduced and the temperature is increased, and is blown into the room from the air outlet 103.

[0230] Figure 21 (A) of is a front view of the filter unit 133 provided at the suction port 102 on the front surface of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 (B) of is a front view showing the state after the filter unit 133 provided at the suction port 102 on the front surface of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is opened. Figure 21Figure (C) is a front view showing the state after opening the cover portion 142 on the front of the main body case 101 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 is a perspective view showing the opening 141 on the front of the main body case 101 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0231] As Figure 21 and Figure 22 shown, the main body case 101 has a locking mechanism 140 to prevent the accidental operation of the waste disposal mechanism portion 144, and users etc. can operate the waste disposal mechanism portion 144 after releasing the locking mechanism 140.

[0232] The locking mechanism 140 has: an opening 141 provided in the main body case 101 that communicates the outside of the main body case 101 with the waste disposal mechanism portion 144; a cover portion 142 provided at the opening 141; and a connecting portion 143 that connects the opening edge of the opening 141 and the peripheral portion of the cover portion 142. The cover portion 142 of the locking mechanism 140 can be opened from the opening 141 using a tool, and after opening the cover portion 142 from the opening 141, the waste disposal mechanism portion 144 can be operated via the opening 141.

[0233] Specifically, the cover portion 142 is a substantially flat plate (including a flat plate) in the shape of a horizontally long quadrilateral, and is a part of the front of the main body case 101. One side (inner side) surface of the cover portion 142 becomes a part of the inner surface of the main body case 101, and the other side (outer side) surface of the cover portion 142 becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body case 101.

[0234] The cover portion 142 is smaller than the horizontally long quadrilateral-shaped opening 141 provided in the front of the main body case 101, and there is an annular gap between the cover portion 142 and the opening 141. A plurality of rod-shaped connecting portions 143 extend from the peripheral portion of the cover portion 142 toward the opening edge of the opening 141.

[0235] The front of the main body case 101, the cover portion 142, and the plurality of connecting portions 143 are integrally formed, and the material is resin. When a tool is inserted into the gap between the cover portion 142 and the opening 141 to cut the plurality of connecting portions 143, or when the cover portion 142 is struck with a tool, the plurality of connecting portions 143 are cut, and the cover portion 142 can be opened from the opening 141. The waste disposal mechanism portion 144 can be operated from the opening 141 where the cover portion 142 is opened.

[0236] Accordingly, there is an effect that since the operation of the waste disposal mechanism portion 144 cannot be accidentally performed, it is possible to prevent users etc. of the dehumidifying device from erroneously discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere and making the dehumidifying device unusable.

[0237] Figure 23AThis is a cross-sectional view of the waste mechanism portion 144 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 23A This is a state where the pressing plate 149 of the perforated pin portion 145 contacts the stopper portion 147 and the perforated pin portion 145 is located on the front side of the main body housing 101. Additionally, Figure 23B This is a cross-sectional view of the waste mechanism portion 144 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 23B This is a view showing a state where the stopper portion 147 separates from the pressing plate 149 of the perforated pin portion 145, the perforated pin portion 145 moves toward the rear side of the main body housing 101, and the front end of the perforated pin 150 is inserted into the connecting pipe 113b. Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the front opening portion 141 of the main body housing 101 and the waste mechanism portion 144 of the dehumidifying device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0238] As Figure 22 , Figure 23A , Figure 23B and Figure 24 shown, the waste mechanism portion 144 includes a perforated pin portion 145, a guide portion 146, a stopper portion 147, and a connecting pipe support portion 148.

[0239] The perforated pin portion 145 includes a pressing plate 149, a perforated pin 150, and a connecting pipe fixing pin 151.

[0240] The pressing plate 149 has a flat plate shape, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the pressing plate 149 faces the surface on one side of the cover portion 142 (the inner surface of the main body housing 101). The perforated pin 150 and the connecting pipe fixing pin 151 extend from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 149 into the main body housing 101.

[0241] The perforated pin 150 is a protrusion that protrudes from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 149 into the main body housing 101 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 101) and has a sharp front end. The perforated pin 150 is provided perpendicular to the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 149.

[0242] The connecting pipe fixing pin 151 is a protrusion that protrudes from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 149 into the main body housing 101 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 101). The connecting pipe fixing pin 151 is arranged above the perforated pin 150.

[0243] The guide portion 146 includes a cylindrical member 146a having a central axis extending from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 101, and is provided on the front side of the main body housing 101. The guide portion 146 is arranged between the cover portion 142 and the connecting pipe 113b extending from the evaporator 113.

[0244] The opening pin portion 145 is disposed within the guide portion 146. A slight gap is formed between the inner surface of the guide portion 146 and the peripheral portion of the pressing plate 149 of the opening pin portion 145, and the opening pin portion 145 is arranged to be movable in the central axis direction of the guide portion 146 (the front-rear direction of the main body housing 101).

[0245] The guide portion 146 has a hole 152 (see Figure 22 ) on its peripheral surface whose central axis extends in the left-right direction of the main body housing 101 (the horizontal direction perpendicular to the central axis of the guide portion 146). The stopper portion 147 is arranged to be movable within the hole 152 of the guide portion.

[0246] The guide portion 146 has a cover member 146b on the rear side of the main body housing 101 of the cylindrical member 146a that closes the opening of the cylindrical member 146a.

[0247] The cover member 146b has two communication holes that communicate the space inside the cylindrical member 146a with the space inside the main body housing 101 where the connecting pipe 113b provided with the evaporator 113 is located. One communication hole 146c is a hole for the connecting pipe fixing pin 151 to project from the inside of the cylindrical member 146a to the rear side of the main body housing 101. The other communication hole 146d is a hole for the opening pin 150 to project from the inside of the cylindrical member 146a to the rear side of the main body housing 101.

[0248] That is, the connecting pipe fixing pin 151 projects from the inside of the cylindrical member 146a to the rear side of the main body housing 101 through one communication hole 146c, and the opening pin 150 projects from the inside of the cylindrical member 146a to the rear side of the main body housing 101 through the other communication hole 146d.

[0249] The stopper portion 147 is in the shape of a horizontally long bar and restricts the movement of the opening pin portion 145 in the front-rear direction within the main body housing 101. Usually, the stopper portion 147 projects into the guide portion 146 through the hole 152 of the guide portion 146. In this state, since the stopper portion 147 projects toward the side (inner side) surface of the pressing plate 149 of the opening pin portion 145, even if the opening pin portion 145 is to be pressed into the main body housing 101, the pressing plate 149 contacts the stopper portion 147 and the opening pin portion 145 cannot be pressed into the main body housing 101.

[0250] On the other hand, when the stopper portion 147 is moved outward through the hole 152 of the guide portion 146 and does not project into the guide portion 146, in the case of pressing the opening pin portion 145 into the main body housing 101, the pressing plate 149 does not contact the stopper portion 147, so the opening pin portion 145 can be pressed into the main body housing 101.

[0251] When viewed from the central axis direction of the connecting pipe 113b of the evaporator 113 (the side of the main body housing 101), the connecting pipe support portion 148 has a substantially U-shaped opening upward, and is disposed opposite to the opening pin 150 of the opening pin portion 145, supporting the lower surface side of the lowermost connecting pipe 113b and the rear side of the connecting pipe 113b in the main body housing 101.

[0252] In addition, as Figure 17 shown, the surface of the main body housing 101 having the opening portion 141 and the lid portion 142 has a display portion 132 for displaying the operation method of the waste disposal mechanism portion 144. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the operation of the waste disposal mechanism portion 144 being accidentally performed and the user of the dehumidifying device discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, rendering the dehumidifying device unusable. In addition, the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant, which is not a problem in terms of environmental load, into the atmosphere, and thus has the effect of being able to easily perform the waste disposal of the dehumidifying device.

[0253] As Figure 17 and Figure 21 shown, the suction port 102 has a filter portion 133 for collecting dust that is detachably provided. The filter portion 133 covers the opening portion 141 and the lid portion 142.

[0254] Next, a method for discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 106 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere will be described.

[0255] As Figure 21 and Figure 22 shown, when the user discharges the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 106 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere and then discards the dehumidifying device, first, the filter portion 133 is opened from the suction port 102.

[0256] After removing the filter portion 133 from the suction port 102, the suction port 102, the opening portion 141, and the lid portion 142 are exposed, so that the user can perform the operation while observing the display portion 132.

[0257] Next, the user inserts a tool into the gap between the lid portion 142 and the opening portion 141 outdoors, cuts the plurality of connecting portions 143, or cuts the plurality of connecting portions 143 by hitting the lid portion 142 with a tool, and opens the lid portion 142 from the opening portion 141.

[0258] Next, the user or the like moves the stopper portion 147 outward of the guide portion 146.

[0259] As Figure 23A 、 Figure 23B and Figure 24As shown, next, the user uses a tool to press the perforated pin portion 145 into the main body housing 101. In this way, via the communication hole 146c on one side of the cover member 146b, the lower end of the connecting pipe fixing pin 151 contacts the upper surface of the connecting pipe 113b extending from the evaporator 113, and the upward movement of the connecting pipe 113b is suppressed.

[0260] In addition, the lower surface of the connecting pipe 113b and the rear side of the connecting pipe 113b in the main body housing 101 are supported by the connecting pipe support portion 148, so the downward movement and the movement of the connecting pipe 113b toward the rear side of the main body housing 101 are suppressed.

[0261] Next, the user further presses the perforated pin portion 145 into the main body housing 101 using a tool. In this way, the front end of the perforated pin 150 is inserted into the front side of the main body housing 101 of the connecting pipe 113b through the other communication hole 146d of the cover member 146b, and a hole 153 is formed in the connecting pipe 113b. Refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 106 is discharged into the atmosphere from this hole 153.

[0262] One of the features of this embodiment is that when the dehumidifying device is carried outdoors and the refrigerant is discharged from the refrigeration cycle 106 into the atmosphere, when the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 discharges the refrigerant into the atmosphere, the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 has a function (structure) of disabling the refrigeration cycle 106 and the air supply unit 107.

[0263] Thereby, during the process of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, in a state where a small amount of refrigerant remains or in a state where there is no refrigerant, misoperation cannot occur, so an effect of being able to safely avoid an undesirable state can be obtained.

[0264] In addition, when discharging the refrigerant from the refrigeration cycle 106 into the atmosphere, usually the dehumidifying device is carried outdoors to operate the waste disposal mechanism unit 144. However, when the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 is misoperated indoors in the normal use state, that is, in a state where the air supply unit 107 and the refrigeration cycle 106 are operating, the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 stops the power supply to the air supply unit 107, the refrigeration cycle 106, and the control unit 109.

[0265] Thereby, it is possible to suppress the refrigerant leaking from the refrigeration cycle 106 from flowing into the operating air supply unit 107, the refrigeration cycle 106, and the control unit 109 and causing a fire.

[0266] Specifically, as Figure 18 , Figure 23A , Figure 23B and Figure 24As shown, the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 has a refrigerant waste switch 155 that switches the electrical connection between the control unit 109 and the power supply line 154 between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. When the opening pin portion 145 moves and a hole 153 is opened in the refrigeration cycle 106, the refrigerant waste switch 155 changes from the conductive state to the non-conductive state.

[0267] The waste disposal mechanism unit 144 has a guide portion 146 that supports the opening pin portion 145 in a movable manner. Specifically, the refrigerant waste switch 155 is provided on the guide portion 146. The refrigerant waste switch 155 is provided on the front side of the main body case 101 of the cover member 146b that is the guide portion 146, that is, the surface of the cover member 146b that faces the pressing plate 149 of the opening pin portion 145.

[0268] When the opening pin portion 145 moves and a hole 153 is opened in the connecting pipe 113b extending from the evaporator 113 that is the refrigeration cycle 106, the pressing plate 149 of the opening pin portion 145 contacts the refrigerant waste switch 155, and the refrigerant waste switch 155 changes from the conductive state to the non-conductive state.

[0269] As an example of the refrigerant waste switch 155, it is a contact switch. The refrigerant waste switch 155 is normally in the conductive state. In this state, when the refrigerant waste switch 155 is pressed once, the conductive portion inside the refrigerant waste switch 155 becomes non-conductive. That is, power cannot be supplied to the control unit 109 that controls the refrigeration cycle 106 and the air supply unit 107 via the power supply line 154.

[0270] Thus, when the dehumidifying device is carried outdoors and the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 is operated to discharge the refrigerant from the refrigeration cycle 106 to the atmosphere, the refrigeration cycle 106 and the air supply unit 107 cannot operate. As a result, during the process of discharging the refrigerant to the atmosphere, misoperation cannot occur in a state where a small amount of refrigerant remains or there is no refrigerant, so the effect of being able to avoid a state that is not preferably safe can be obtained.

[0271] In addition, when discharging the refrigerant from the refrigeration cycle 106 to the atmosphere, the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 is usually operated by carrying the dehumidifying device outdoors. However, when the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 is misoperated indoors in the normal use state, that is, in a state where the air supply unit 107 and the refrigeration cycle 106 are operating, the waste disposal mechanism unit 144 stops supplying power to the air supply unit 107, the refrigeration cycle 106, and the control unit 109.

[0272] Thus, it is possible to suppress the inflow of the refrigerant leaking from the refrigeration cycle 106 into the operating air supply unit 107, refrigeration cycle 106, and control unit 109 and cause a fire.

[0273] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0274] Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0275] In the conventional dehumidifying device as described above, it is configured to recover the refrigerant when the device is discarded. Therefore, refrigerant recovery needs to be performed by a qualified person, and there is a problem that the device cannot be easily discarded. Therefore, it is considered to provide a dehumidifying device that uses a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle and is provided with a structure capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, so that the user can easily discard it. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used. However, in this case, there is a problem that the user may accidentally discharge the refrigerant into the atmosphere when the dehumidifying device is used indoors.

[0276] One aspect of the present invention is a dehumidifying device including a main body housing having a suction port and a blowout port, and inside the main body housing, there are provided: at least a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator are connected in series in a ring shape; a blower unit that causes the refrigeration cycle to function; and a control unit that controls the refrigeration cycle and the blower unit, and further includes a power plug electrically connected to the refrigeration cycle, the blower unit, and the control unit. The refrigeration cycle uses a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less, and is provided with a waste disposal mechanism unit capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, and further includes a refrigerant discharge suppression unit that can suppress the discharge of the refrigerant even when the waste disposal mechanism unit operates when the power plug is electrically connected to a power socket. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0277] According to one aspect of the present invention, even when the waste disposal mechanism unit malfunctions in a state where the power plug is electrically connected to a power socket, the discharge of the refrigerant can be suppressed.

[0278] Hereinafter, the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0279] Figure 25 It is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 26 is Figure 25Schematic cross-sectional view at the C-C line.

[0280] As Figure 25 and Figure 26 shown, the main body housing 201 is longitudinally long and generally box-shaped (including box shape). Specifically, an intake port 202 is disposed on the front surface of the main body housing 201 (the side surface on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 201). An air outlet 203 is disposed on the upper portion of the main body housing 201. The air outlet 203 has a horizontally long quadrilateral shape and opens above and at the rear of the main body housing 201.

[0281] On the rear side of the top surface of the main body housing 201 (the side surface on the other side (inner side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 201), there is a louver 204 that changes the direction of the air flow from the air outlet 203. On the front side of the top surface of the main body housing 201 (one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 201), an operation unit 205 is provided. The operation unit 205 has a plurality of switches for turning on and off the power and changing the operation mode, etc.

[0282] Inside the main body housing 201, there are a refrigeration cycle 206, a blower unit 207, a water storage tank unit 208, and a control unit 209.

[0283] The refrigeration cycle 206 is a structure in which a compressor 210, a condenser 211, an expander 212, and an evaporator 213 are connected in series in a loop to circulate a refrigerant. In addition, as the refrigerant, a refrigerant having a global warming potential (Global Warming Potential (GWP)) of 10 or less is used. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0284] The evaporator 213 is disposed on the front side of the main body housing 201 (the side surface on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 201). The evaporator 213 is disposed inside the main body housing 201 in such a manner that the gap between adjacent heat sinks 213a in the evaporator 213 described later faces the intake port 202 of the main body housing 201.

[0285] Figure 27 is an external perspective view of the evaporator 213 of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 27 is a view of the evaporator 213 of the dehumidifying device as viewed from the front side of the main body housing 201.

[0286] As Figure 27 shown, the evaporator 213 has a plurality of (a large number of) heat sinks 213a and connecting pipes 213b that connect the plurality of heat sinks 213a.

[0287] The heat sink 213a is in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and is made of aluminum. A plurality of heat sinks 213a are arranged such that the surfaces of adjacent heat sinks 213a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat sinks 213a forms an air passage.

[0288] The connecting pipe 213b is cylindrical in shape and is made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 213b penetrates through the heat sink 213a, is provided in multiple layers in the longitudinal direction of the heat sink 213a, and is bent into a meandering shape (U-shaped) multiple times at both ends of the heat sink 213a.

[0289] A plurality of heat sinks 213a are fixed to the straight pipe portion (the portion of the pipe extending linearly) of the connecting pipe 213b. The plurality of heat sinks 213a are laminated at a predetermined interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 213b.

[0290] Figure 28 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the condenser 211 of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 28 It is a view of observing the condenser 211 of the dehumidifying device from the front side of the main body housing 201.

[0291] As Figure 26 and Figure 28 shown, the condenser 211 is arranged on the rear side of the main body housing 201 relative to the evaporator 213 (the side on the other side (inside) in the depth direction of the main body housing 201). The condenser 211 is arranged in the main body housing 201 such that the gap between adjacent heat sinks 211a in the condenser 211 faces the evaporator 213.

[0292] The condenser 211 has a plurality of (a large number of) heat sinks 211a and a connecting pipe 211b that connects the plurality of heat sinks 211a.

[0293] The heat sink 211a is in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and is made of aluminum. A plurality of heat sinks 211a are arranged such that the surfaces of adjacent heat sinks 211a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat sinks 211a forms an air passage.

[0294] The connecting pipe 211b is cylindrical in shape and is made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 211b penetrates through the heat sink 211a, is provided in multiple layers in the longitudinal direction of the heat sink 211a, and is bent into a meandering shape (U-shaped) multiple times at both ends of the heat sink 211a. A plurality of heat sinks 211a are fixed to the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 211b. The plurality of heat sinks 211a are laminated at a predetermined interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 211b.

[0295] As Figure 26As shown, an example of the expander 212 is a capillary tube. The capillary tube is a slender tube, and a part of the capillary tube is wound into a hollow circular shape. The capillary tube is thinner than the pipe connected to the capillary tube, so the speed of the refrigerant flowing in the tube becomes faster, and the pressure of the refrigerant drops.

[0296] The air supply unit 207 is a so-called sirocco fan, which is composed of a spiral-shaped housing 207a that forms an air passage, an impeller (not shown) that boosts pressure and supplies air by rotating inside the housing 207a, and an electric motor (not shown) that rotationally drives the impeller. The air supply unit 207 functions the refrigeration cycle 206 by ventilating the refrigeration cycle 206.

[0297] The housing 207a has an inlet 207b for air to flow in and an outlet 207c for air to flow out, and has a tongue (not shown) that directs the pressurized air to the outlet 207c. Further, the outlet 207c is configured to communicate with the air outlet 203 of the main housing 201.

[0298] As Figure 25 and Figure 26 shown, the water storage tank unit 208 is disposed in a space portion (not shown) at the lower part of the main housing 201, and has a detachable structure from the front surface of the main housing 201 (the side surface on the front side (front side) in the depth direction of the main housing 201). The detaching and attaching direction of the water storage tank unit 208 is the front-rear direction (the depth direction of the main housing 201) of the main housing 201.

[0299] Above the water storage tank unit 208, the air supply unit 207 and the evaporator 213 are disposed. The water storage tank unit 208 has a flat box-shaped tank 208a with an open top surface and a funnel-shaped water collection cover (not shown). The water collection cover is detachably provided on the upper part of the tank 208a. That is, the water storage tank unit 208 is structured such that the condensed water condensed in the evaporator 213 is collected by the funnel-shaped water collection cover and flows into the tank 208a.

[0300] As Figure 26 shown, when viewed from the front side of the main housing 201, the control unit 209 is disposed at the upper part of the main housing 201. The control unit 209 controls the electric motor of the air supply unit 207 and the compressor 210 based on the input of the switch of the operation unit 205 pressed by the user.

[0301] An air passage 214 is formed inside the main housing 201. The air passage 214 is an air passage that sucks air from the suction port 202 by the air supply unit 207, and discharges the sucked air to the air outlet 203 through the evaporator 213, the condenser 211, and the air supply unit 207 in sequence.

[0302] In the air supply path 214, the indoor air sucked in from the suction port 202 is supplied to the evaporator 213. At this time, the moisture in the air condenses on the evaporator 213, becoming dry air. And, since the indoor air is supplied to the condenser 211, it is attracted by the air supply unit 207 in a state where the humidity is reduced and the temperature is increased, and is blown into the room from the blowout port 203.

[0303] Figure 29 (A) of [figure number] is a front view showing the filter unit 217 of the suction port 202 provided in front of the dehumidifying device of the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 29 (B) of [figure number] is a front view showing the state after opening (removing) the filter unit 217 of the suction port 202 provided in front of the dehumidifying device of the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 29 (C) of [figure number] is a front view showing the state after opening the cover portion 222 on the front surface of the main body housing 201 of the dehumidifying device of the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 30 is a perspective view of the opening portion 221 on the front surface of the main body housing 201 of the dehumidifying device of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0304] As Figure 29 and Figure 30 shown, a waste disposal mechanism portion 224 capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere is provided in the opening portion 221, and the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 can be operated when the cover portion 222 is opened from the opening portion 221. When the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 is operated, the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 can open a hole 233 (described later) in the expander 212 and discharge the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 206 into the atmosphere.

[0305] The cover portion 222 is a substantially flat plate (including a flat plate) having a quadrilateral shape and is a part of the front surface of the main body housing 201. One side (inner side) surface of the cover portion 222 becomes a part of the inner surface of the main body housing 201, and the other side (outer side) surface of the cover portion 222 becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body housing 201.

[0306] The cover portion 222 is smaller than the quadrilateral-shaped opening portion 221 provided on the front surface of the main body housing 201, and there is an annular gap between the cover portion 222 and the opening portion 221. A plurality of rod-shaped connecting portions 223 extend from the peripheral portion of the cover portion 222 toward the opening edge of the opening portion 221.

[0307] Figure 31A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 of the dehumidifying device of the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state where the hole-opening pin portion 225 is located on the front surface side of the main body housing 201. Figure 31BIt is a schematic cross-sectional view of the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state where the perforating pin portion 225 has moved to the rear side of the main body housing 201.

[0308] As Figure 30 , Figure 31A and Figure 31B shown, the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 includes a perforating pin portion 225, a guiding portion 226, a stopper portion 227, and a tube support portion 228.

[0309] The perforating pin portion 225 includes a pressing plate 229, a perforating pin 230, and a tube fixing pin 231.

[0310] The pressing plate 229 has a flat plate shape, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the pressing plate 229 faces the surface on one side of the cover portion 222 (the inner surface of the main body housing 201). The perforating pin 230 and the tube fixing pin 231 extend from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 229 into the main body housing 201.

[0311] The perforating pin 230 is a protrusion that protrudes from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 229 into the main body housing 201 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 201) and has a sharp front end. The perforating pin 230 is provided perpendicular to the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 229.

[0312] The tube fixing pin 231 is a protrusion that protrudes from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressing plate 229 into the main body housing 201 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 201). The tube fixing pin 231 is arranged at a position above the perforating pin 230.

[0313] The guiding portion 226 has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 201, and is provided on the front side of the main body housing 201. The guiding portion 226 is arranged between the cover portion 222 and the capillary tube as the expander 212.

[0314] The perforating pin portion 225 is arranged inside the guiding portion 226. A slight gap is formed between the inner surface of the guiding portion 226 and the peripheral portion of the pressing plate 229 of the perforating pin portion 225, and the perforating pin portion 225 is arranged to be movable in the central axis direction of the guiding portion 226 (the front-rear direction of the main body housing 201).

[0315] The guiding portion 226 has a hole 232 (see Figure 30 ) on its peripheral surface with a central axis extending in the left-right direction of the main body housing 201 (a horizontal direction perpendicular to the central axis of the guiding portion 226). The stopper portion 227 is movably arranged in the hole 232 of the guiding portion.

[0316] The stopper portion 227 is a horizontally long bar shape that restricts the movement of the opening pin portion 225 in the front-rear direction of the main body housing 201. Usually, the stopper portion 227 protrudes into the guide portion 226 through the hole 232 of the guide portion 226. In this state, since the stopper portion 227 protrudes to the side (inner side) surface of the pressing plate 229 of the opening pin portion 225, even if the opening pin portion 225 is pressed into the main body housing 201 and the pressing plate 229 contacts the stopper portion 227, the opening pin portion 225 cannot be pressed into the main body housing 201.

[0317] On the other hand, when the stopper portion 227 is moved outward of the guide portion 226 through the hole 232 of the guide portion 226 and does not protrude into the guide portion 226, when the opening pin portion 225 is to be pressed into the main body housing 201, the pressing plate 229 does not contact the stopper portion 227, so the opening pin portion 225 can be pressed into the main body housing 201.

[0318] When viewed from the central axis direction of the expander 212, i.e., the capillary tube (side of the main body housing 201) extending in the left-right direction of the main body housing 201, the tube support portion 228 has a substantially U-shaped opening upward and is disposed opposite to the opening pin 230 of the opening pin portion 225, supporting the lower side of the capillary tube as the expander 212 and the rear side of the main body housing 201 of the capillary tube as the expander 212.

[0319] In addition, as Figure 25 shown, the surface of the main body housing 201 having the suction port 202 and the opening 221 has a display portion 216 that shows the operation method of the waste disposal mechanism portion 224. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the user of the dehumidifying device from accidentally operating the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 and discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, rendering the dehumidifying device unusable. In addition, the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant that is not a problem to discharge into the atmosphere in terms of environmental load, so it has the effect of being able to easily dispose of the dehumidifying device.

[0320] In addition, the suction port 202 is detachably provided with a filter portion 217 for collecting dust. The filter portion 217 covers the suction port 202 and the opening 221. Thereby, it has the effect of preventing the user of the dehumidifying device from accidentally operating the waste disposal mechanism portion 224 and discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, rendering the dehumidifying device unusable.

[0321] Next, a method for discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 206 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere will be described.

[0322] As Figure 29 and Figure 30As shown, when the user discards the dehumidifying device after discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 206 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere, first, the filter unit 217 is opened from the suction port 202.

[0323] After the filter unit 217 is opened from the suction port 202, the suction port 202, the opening 221, and the lid 222 appear, so that the user can perform the operation while observing the display unit 216.

[0324] Next, the user inserts a tool into the gap between the lid 222 and the opening 221 outdoors to cut off the plurality of connecting parts 223, or cuts off the plurality of connecting parts 223 by hitting the lid 222 with a tool, and opens the lid 222 from the opening 221.

[0325] Next, the user or the like moves the stopper portion 227 outward of the guide portion 226.

[0326] As Figure 31A and Figure 31B shown, next, the user presses the perforated pin portion 225 into the main body housing 201 using a tool. In this way, the lower end of the pipe fixing pin 231 contacts the upper surface of the capillary tube of the expander 212, suppressing the upward movement of the capillary tube of the expander 212.

[0327] In addition, the lower surface of the capillary tube of the expander 212 and the rear side of the main body housing 201 of the capillary tube of the expander 212 are supported by the pipe support portion 228, so that the downward movement of the capillary tube of the expander 212 and the rear side of the main body housing 201 are suppressed.

[0328] Next, the user further presses the perforated pin portion 225 into the main body housing 201 using a tool. In this way, the front end of the perforated pin 230 is inserted into the front side of the main body housing 201 of the capillary tube of the expander 212, and a hole 233 is formed in the capillary tube of the expander 212. Refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 206 is discharged into the atmosphere from this hole 233.

[0329] Figure 32 It is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the dehumidifying device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention in modules.

[0330] As Figure 25 、 Figure 26 、 Figure 31A 、 Figure 31B and Figure 32 shown, the dehumidifying device includes a refrigeration cycle 206, a blower unit 207, and a power plug 235 electrically connected to the control unit 209.

[0331] One of the features of this embodiment is that there is a refrigerant emission suppression unit 236 that can suppress the emission of refrigerant even when the disposal mechanism unit 224 operates while the power plug 235 is electrically connected to the power socket.

[0332] Specifically, the refrigerant emission suppression unit 236 includes an on-off valve 237, a check valve 238, and an electromagnetic control unit 239.

[0333] The on-off valve 237 is a structure that opens and closes the flow path in the refrigeration cycle 206 to allow the refrigerant to flow or stop.

[0334] The on-off valve 237 has a valve mechanism for opening and closing the flow path in the refrigeration cycle 206. This valve mechanism is configured to close when a specified current flows through the on-off valve 237 and to open when no current flows through the on-off valve 237. The valve mechanism is normally in an open state. An example of the on-off valve 237 is an electromagnetic valve.

[0335] The check valve 238 is provided in the refrigeration cycle 206 and is a valve that is arranged on the downstream side of the on-off valve 237 in the direction of refrigerant flow in the flow path in the refrigeration cycle 206 to suppress the reverse flow of the refrigerant.

[0336] The electromagnetic control unit 239 controls the on-off valve 237 based on the operation of the disposal mechanism unit 224. When the disposal mechanism unit 224 operates, the electromagnetic control unit 239 controls to close the on-off valve 237 that is normally in an open state. The electromagnetic control unit 239 is electrically connected to the power plug 235.

[0337] More specifically, the electromagnetic control unit 239 includes a disposal detection part 240 and an electromagnetic action part 241.

[0338] The disposal detection part 240 is provided in the disposal mechanism unit 224 and detects that the disposal mechanism unit 224 has operated.

[0339] The disposal detection part 240 is provided in the guide part 226 of the disposal mechanism unit 224. The disposal detection part 240 is provided on the front side of the main body housing 201 of the cover member 226b (see Figure 31A ) that constitutes the guide part 226, that is, the surface of the cover member 226b opposite to the pressing plate 229 of the opening pin part 225.

[0340] When the opening pin part 225 moves and a hole 233 is opened in the refrigeration cycle 206 extending from the evaporator 213, the pressing plate 229 of the opening pin part 225 contacts the disposal detection part 240, and the disposal detection part 240 detects the operation of the disposal mechanism unit 224.

[0341] As an example of the waste detection section 240, it is a contact switch. The waste detection section 240 is normally in a non-conductive state. In this state, when the waste detection section 240 is pressed once, the conductive part of the waste detection section 240 changes from the non-conductive state to the conductive state.

[0342] When the waste detection section 240 detects the operation of the waste mechanism section 224, the electromagnetic operation section 241 operates in such a way that a prescribed current flows through the on-off valve 237 to close the on-off valve 237.

[0343] When viewed from the front side of the main body case 201, the electromagnetic operation section 241 is disposed in the upper part of the main body case 201 (see Figure 26 ). When the waste detection section 240 changes from the non-conductive state to the conductive state, the electromagnetic operation section 241 operates in such a way that a prescribed current flows through the on-off valve 237 to close the on-off valve 237. The electromagnetic operation section 241, like the control section 209, can be constituted by hardware or can implement functions through a combination of a computer and a program.

[0344] As Figure 26 shown, the waste mechanism section 224 is disposed on the downstream side in the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 206 with respect to the on-off valve 237 and on the upstream side in the direction of refrigerant flow with respect to the check valve 238.

[0345] That is, when the waste mechanism section 224 operates and the electromagnetic control section 239 closes the on-off valve 237, since the on-off valve 237 is provided on the upstream side in the direction of refrigerant flow with respect to the waste mechanism section 224, it is possible to suppress the refrigerant from flowing from the upstream side in the direction of refrigerant flow with respect to the waste mechanism section 224 to the waste mechanism section 224.

[0346] In addition, since the check valve 238 is provided on the downstream side in the direction of refrigerant flow with respect to the waste mechanism section 224, it is possible to suppress the refrigerant from flowing from the downstream side in the direction of refrigerant flow with respect to the waste mechanism section 224 to the waste mechanism section 224.

[0347] Thus, even when the user accidentally operates the waste mechanism section 224 while the power plug 235 is electrically connected to the power socket, opening the hole 233 in the refrigeration cycle 206 and the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 206 is discharged to the atmosphere, it is possible to reduce the refrigerant leaking from the hole 233 by using the on-off valve 237 and the check valve 238.

[0348] In addition, the distance of the flow path from the on-off valve 237 to the check valve 238 in the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 206 is shorter than the distance of the flow path from the check valve 238 to the on-off valve 237 in the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 206.

[0349] In addition, the expander 212 is a capillary tube, and the on-off valve 237, the waste mechanism section 224, and the check valve 238 can also be provided in the capillary tube. Thus, since the expander 212 is located at a low-pressure part in the refrigeration cycle 206, the momentum of the refrigerant jetting out from the capillary tube serving as the expander 212 can be suppressed, thereby improving safety.

[0350] (Sixth Embodiment)

[0351] Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0352] In the conventional dehumidifying device as described above, since the refrigerant is recovered when the device is discarded, it is necessary for a qualified person to recover the refrigerant, and there is a problem that the device cannot be easily discarded.

[0353] In one aspect of the present invention, a dehumidifying device that can be easily discarded is provided.

[0354] One aspect of the present invention is a dehumidifying device including a main body case having a suction port and a blowout port, and inside the main body case: at least a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator are connected in series in a ring shape; a blower unit that makes the refrigeration cycle function; and a control unit that controls the refrigeration cycle and the blower unit. The refrigeration cycle uses a refrigerant having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less, and the main body case further has a first opening that communicates the inside of the main body case with the outside of the main body case, and the refrigeration cycle can be opened via the first opening. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0355] According to one aspect of the present invention, since a refrigerant having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less is used for the refrigeration cycle and the refrigeration cycle can be opened from the outside of the main body case, the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the refrigerant that has no problem in terms of environmental load into the atmosphere, and the effect that the dehumidifying device can be easily discarded can be obtained.

[0356] Hereinafter, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0357] Figure 33 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 34 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 34 isFigure 33 Schematic cross-sectional view of the D-D line

[0358] As Figure 33 and Figure 34 shown, the main body housing 301 is longitudinally long and generally box-shaped (including box shape). Specifically, an intake port 302 is disposed on the front surface of the main body housing 301 (the side surface on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 301). An air outlet 303 is disposed on the upper part of the main body housing 301. The air outlet 303 has a horizontally long quadrilateral shape and opens above and behind the main body housing 301.

[0359] On the rear side of the top surface of the main body housing 301 (the side surface side on the other side (inner side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 301), there is a louver 304 that changes the direction of the wind from the air outlet 303. On the front side of the top surface of the main body housing 301 (one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 301), an operation unit 305 is provided. The operation unit 305 has a plurality of switches for turning on and off the power supply and changing the operation mode, etc.

[0360] Inside the main body housing 301, there are a refrigeration cycle 306, a blower unit 307, a water storage tank unit 308, and a control unit 309.

[0361] The refrigeration cycle 306 is a structure in which a compressor 310, a condenser 311, an expander 312, and an evaporator 313 are connected in series in a loop to circulate a refrigerant. In addition, as the refrigerant, a refrigerant having a global warming potential (Global Warming Potential (GWP)) of 10 or less is used. As the refrigerant, for example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used.

[0362] The evaporator 313 is disposed on the front side of the main body housing 301 (the side surface side on one side (front side) in the depth direction of the main body housing 301). The evaporator 313 is disposed inside the main body housing 301 in such a manner that the gaps between adjacent heat dissipation fins 313a in the evaporator 313 described later face the intake port 302 of the main body housing 301.

[0363] Figure 35 is an external perspective view of the evaporator 313 of the dehumidifying device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 35 is a view of the evaporator 313 of the dehumidifying device as viewed from the front side of the main body housing 301.

[0364] As Figure 35 shown, the evaporator 313 has a plurality of (a large number of) heat dissipation fins 313a and connecting pipes 313b that connect the plurality of heat dissipation fins 313a.

[0365] The heat sink 313a is in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and is made of aluminum. A plurality of heat sinks 313a are arranged such that the surfaces of adjacent heat sinks 313a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat sinks 313a forms an air passage.

[0366] The connecting pipe 313b is cylindrical and is made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 313b penetrates through the heat sink 313a, is provided in multiple layers in the longitudinal direction of the heat sink 313a, and is bent into a meandering shape (U shape) multiple times at both ends of the heat sink 313a.

[0367] A plurality of heat sinks 313a are fixed to the straight pipe portion (the portion of the pipe extending linearly) of the connecting pipe 313b. The plurality of heat sinks 313a are laminated at a predetermined interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 313b.

[0368] Figure 36 It is a perspective external view of the condenser 311 of the dehumidifying device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Figure 36 It is a view of observing the condenser 311 of the dehumidifying device from the front side of the main body case 301.

[0369] As Figure 34 and Figure 36 shown, the condenser 311 is arranged at a position closer to the rear side of the main body case 301 than the evaporator 313 (the side on the other side (inside) in the depth direction of the main body case 301). The condenser 311 is arranged in the main body case 301 such that the gap between adjacent heat sinks 311a in the condenser 311 faces the evaporator 313.

[0370] The condenser 311 has a plurality of (a large number of) heat sinks 311a and a connecting pipe 311b that connects the plurality of heat sinks 313a.

[0371] The heat sink 311a is in the shape of a longitudinally long quadrilateral plate and is made of aluminum. A plurality of heat sinks 311a are arranged such that the surfaces of adjacent heat sinks 311a face each other. The gap between adjacent heat sinks 311a forms an air passage.

[0372] The connecting pipe 311b is cylindrical and is made of copper. The cylindrical connecting pipe 311b penetrates through the heat sink 311a, is provided in multiple layers in the longitudinal direction of the heat sink 311a, and is bent into a meandering shape (U shape) multiple times at both ends of the heat sink 311a. A plurality of heat sinks 311a are fixed to the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 311b. The plurality of heat sinks 311a are laminated at a predetermined interval in the central axis direction of the straight pipe portion of the connecting pipe 311b.

[0373] AsFigure 34 As shown, an example of the expander 312 is a capillary tube. The capillary tube is a slender tube, and a part of the capillary tube is wound into a hollow circular shape. The capillary tube is thinner than the pipe connected to the capillary tube, so the speed of the refrigerant flowing in the tube becomes faster and the pressure of the refrigerant drops.

[0374] The air supply unit 307 is configured as a so-called sirocco fan, which is composed of a spiral-shaped housing 307a that forms an air passage, an impeller (not shown) that boosts pressure and supplies air by rotating within the housing 307a, and an electric motor (not shown) that rotationally drives the impeller. The air supply unit 307 causes the refrigeration cycle 306 to function by ventilating the refrigeration cycle 306.

[0375] The housing 307a has an air inlet 307b for air to flow in and an air outlet 307c for air to flow out, and has a tongue portion (not shown) that directs the pressurized air toward the air outlet 307c. Further, the air outlet 307c is configured to communicate with the air outlet 303 of the main housing 301.

[0376] As Figure 33 and Figure 34 shown, the water storage tank unit 308 is disposed in a space portion (not shown) at the lower part of the main housing 301, and is configured to be detachable from the front surface of the main housing 301 (the side surface on the front side (the near side) in the depth direction of the main housing 301). The detaching and attaching direction of the water storage tank unit 308 is the front-back direction (the depth direction of the main housing 301) of the main housing 301.

[0377] The air supply unit 307 and the evaporator 313 are disposed above the water storage tank unit 308. The water storage tank unit 308 has a flat box-shaped tank 308a with an open top surface and a funnel-shaped water collection cover (not shown). The water collection cover is detachably provided on the upper part of the tank 308a. That is, the water storage tank unit 308 is structured such that the condensed water condensed in the evaporator 313 is gathered by the funnel-shaped water collection cover and flows into the tank 308a.

[0378] As Figure 34 shown, when viewed from the front side of the main housing 301, the control unit 309 is disposed at the upper part of the main housing 301. The control unit 309 controls the electric motor of the air supply unit 307 and the compressor 310 based on the input of the switch of the operation unit 305 pressed by the user.

[0379] An air passage 314 is formed inside the main housing 301. The air passage 314 is an air passage that sucks air from the suction port 302 through the air supply unit 307, and discharges the sucked air to the air outlet 303 via the evaporator 313, the condenser 311, and the air supply unit 307 in sequence.

[0380] In the air supply path 314, the indoor air sucked in from the suction port 302 is supplied to the evaporator 313. At this time, the moisture in the air condenses in the evaporator 313, becoming dry air. Also, since the indoor air is supplied to the condenser 311, it is attracted by the air supply unit 307 in a state where the humidity is reduced and the temperature is increased, and is blown into the room from the blowout port 303.

[0381] Figure 37 It is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front side.

[0382] As Figure 33 , Figure 34 and Figure 37 shown, one of the features of the present embodiment is that the main body housing 301 has a first opening 321 that communicates the inside of the main body housing 301 with the outside of the main body housing 301, and it is possible to open a hole (not shown) in the refrigeration cycle 306 from the outside of the main body housing 301 via the first opening 321.

[0383] Thus, the user or waste collector of the dehumidifying device can easily discharge the refrigerant that is discharged into the atmosphere without problems in terms of environmental load, and thus has the effect of being able to easily dispose of the dehumidifying device.

[0384] Specifically, the main body housing 301 has a first opening 321 that communicates the inside of the main body housing 301 with the outside of the main body housing 301, and it is possible to open a hole (not shown) in the expander 312 of the refrigeration cycle 306 via the first opening 321. That is, it is possible to insert a tool 325 through the first opening 321 that connects the outside of the main body housing 301 and the expander 312 and open a hole in the expander 312 (see Figure 37 ).

[0385] Since the expander 312 is a part of the refrigeration cycle 306 where the pressure is low, it is possible to suppress the momentum of the refrigerant from spraying out from the expander 312, and the safety is improved.

[0386] In addition, the first opening 321 is provided opposite to the expander 312. Specifically, the first opening 321 has a thin and long shape in the longitudinal direction, and when the expander 312 is observed from the first opening 321, a part of the expander 312 extends in the horizontal direction.

[0387] In this way, since the first opening 321 has a long shape in the longitudinal direction, even if the height of the operator's line of sight changes up and down, it is easier to observe the expander 312 from the first opening 321 having a long shape in the longitudinal direction than when observing a part of the expander 312 extending in the horizontal direction from the first opening 321 having a long shape in the horizontal direction.

[0388] In addition, by forming the first opening 321 in a longitudinally elongated shape, a tool 325 capable of cutting by clamping can be inserted into the first opening 321, and a part of the expander 312 extending in the lateral direction can be clamped and cut from the vertical direction, facilitating the opening of the hole.

[0389] In addition, the expander 312 is the narrowest flow path in the refrigeration cycle 306, so cutting based on the tool 325 becomes easy. Further, at the moment when a part of the expander 312 is cut, if the refrigerant ejected from the expander 312 is observed from the first opening 321, it is ejected in the lateral direction, so that the ejection of the refrigerant from the first opening 321 can be suppressed.

[0390] In addition, as Figure 33 shown, on the surface of the main body housing 301 having the suction port 302 and the first opening 321, there is a display portion 323 showing the cutting method of the expander 312. Thus, the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant that is not a problem to discharge into the atmosphere in terms of environmental load, so that there is an effect that the dehumidifying device can be easily disposed of.

[0391] In addition, the suction port 302 is provided with a filter portion 324 for collecting dust that is detachably attached. The filter portion 324 covers the suction port 302 and the first opening 321. Thus, foreign matter can be prevented from entering through the first opening 321.

[0392] When the filter portion 324 is removed from the suction port 302, the suction port 302 and the first opening 321 are exposed, so that the user can perform the operation while observing the display portion 323.

[0393] (Seventh Embodiment)

[0394] Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0395] Figure 38 (A) of is a front view showing the filter portion 324 of the suction port 302 provided on the front surface of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Figure 38 (B) of is a front view showing the state after the filter portion 324 of the suction port 302 provided on the front surface of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is opened. Figure 38 (C) of is a front view showing the state after the cover portion 342 on the front surface of the main body housing 301 of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is opened. Figure 39 is a perspective view showing the first opening 341 on the front surface of the main body housing 301 of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components as those in the sixth embodiment, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0396] As Figure 38 and Figure 39 shown, the difference from the sixth embodiment is that the first opening portion 341 has a waste disposal mechanism portion 344 capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, and when the cover portion 342 is opened from the first opening portion 341, the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 can be operated, and when the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 is operated, the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 opens a hole 353 in the expander 312 as described below.

[0397] The cover portion 342 is a substantially flat plate (including a flat plate) having a quadrilateral shape and is a part of the front surface of the main body housing 301. The surface on one side (inner side) of the cover portion 342 faces the waste disposal mechanism portion 344, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the cover portion 342 becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body housing 301.

[0398] The cover portion 342 is smaller than the first opening portion 341 having a quadrilateral shape provided on the front surface of the main body housing 301, and there is an annular gap between the cover portion 342 and the first opening portion 341. A plurality of rod-shaped connecting portions 343 extend from the peripheral edge portion of the cover portion 342 toward the opening edge of the first opening portion 341.

[0399] Figure 40A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, and is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state where the hole-opening pin portion 345 is located on the front surface side of the main body housing 301. Figure 40B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, and is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state where the hole-opening pin portion 345 has moved to the rear surface side of the main body housing. Figure 41 is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view showing the first opening portion 341 and the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 on the front surface of the main body housing 301 of the dehumidifying device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0400] As Figure 39 , Figure 40A , Figure 40B and Figure 41 shown, the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 has a hole-opening pin portion 345, a guide portion 346, a stopper portion 347, and a pipe support portion 348.

[0401] The hole-opening pin portion 345 has a pressure plate 349, a hole-opening pin 350, and a pipe fixing pin 351.

[0402] The pressure plate 349 has a flat plate shape, and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the pressure plate 349 faces the surface on one side (the surface on the inner surface side of the main body housing 301) of the cover portion 342. The hole-opening pin 350 and the pipe fixing pin 351 extend inwardly of the main body housing 301 from the surface on one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 349.

[0403] The opening pin 350 is a protrusion that projects from one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 349 towards the inside of the main body housing 301 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 301) and has a sharp front end. The opening pin 350 is provided perpendicular to the surface of one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 349.

[0404] The tube fixing pin 351 is a protrusion that projects from one side (inner side) of the pressure plate 349 towards the inside of the main body housing 301 (from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 301). The tube fixing pin 351 is arranged above the opening pin 350.

[0405] The guiding portion 346 has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending from the front side to the rear side of the main body housing 301, and is provided on the front surface of the main body housing 301. The guiding portion 346 is arranged between the cover portion 342 and the capillary tube as the expander 312.

[0406] The opening pin portion 345 is arranged inside the guiding portion 346. A slight gap is formed between the inner surface of the guiding portion 346 and the peripheral portion of the pressure plate 349 of the opening pin portion 345, and the opening pin portion 345 is arranged to be movable in the central axis direction of the guiding portion 346 (the front-rear direction of the main body housing 301).

[0407] The guiding portion 346 has a hole 352 on its circumferential surface with a central axis extending in the left-right direction of the main body housing 301 (perpendicular and horizontal to the central axis of the guiding portion 346) (refer to Figure 39 ). The stopper portion 347 is arranged to be movable in the hole 352 of the guiding portion 346.

[0408] The stopper portion 347 has a horizontally long bar shape and restricts the movement of the opening pin portion 345 in the front-rear direction of the main body housing 301. Usually, the stopper portion 347 protrudes into the guiding portion 346 through the hole 352 of the guiding portion 346. In this state, since the stopper portion 347 protrudes to the side (inner side) surface of the pressure plate 349 of the opening pin portion 345, even if the opening pin portion 345 is to be pressed into the main body housing 301, the pressure plate 349 contacts the stopper portion 347 and the opening pin portion 345 cannot be pressed into the main body housing 301.

[0409] On the other hand, when the stopper portion 347 is moved outward through the hole 352 of the guiding portion 346 and does not protrude into the guiding portion 346, in the case of pressing the opening pin portion 345 into the main body housing 301, the pressure plate 349 does not contact the stopper portion 347 and the opening pin portion 345 can be pressed into the main body housing 301.

[0410] When viewed from the central axis direction of the capillary tube of the expander 312 (the side of the main body housing 301), the tube support portion 348 has a substantially U-shaped opening upward, is disposed opposite to the opening pin 350 of the opening pin portion 345, and supports the lower side of the capillary tube of the expander 312 and the rear side of the main body housing 301 of the capillary tube of the expander 312.

[0411] In addition, as Figure 33 shown, the surface of the main body housing 301 having the suction port 302 and the first opening portion 341 has a display portion 323 for displaying the operation method of the waste disposal mechanism portion 344. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the user of the dehumidifying device from accidentally operating the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 and discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, rendering the dehumidifying device unusable. In addition, the user of the dehumidifying device or the waste collector can easily discharge the high-pressure refrigerant that is not a problem in terms of environmental load into the atmosphere, so that there is an effect that the dehumidifying device can be easily disposed of.

[0412] In addition, the suction port 302 is provided with a filter portion 324 for capturing dust that can be detachably attached. The filter portion 324 covers the suction port 302 and the first opening portion 341. Thereby, there is an effect of preventing the user of the dehumidifying device from accidentally operating the waste disposal mechanism portion 344 and discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere, rendering the dehumidifying device unusable.

[0413] Next, a method for discharging the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 306 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere will be described.

[0414] As Figure 38 and Figure 39 shown, when the user discharges the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 306 of the dehumidifying device into the atmosphere and then disposes of the dehumidifying device, first, the filter portion 324 is opened from the suction port 302.

[0415] After removing the filter portion 324 from the suction port 302, the suction port 302, the first opening portion 341, and the cover portion 342 appear, so that the user can perform the operation while observing the display portion 323.

[0416] Next, the user inserts a tool into the gap between the cover portion 342 and the first opening portion 341 outdoors, cuts the plurality of connecting portions 343, or cuts the plurality of connecting portions 343 by hitting the cover portion 342 with a tool, and opens the cover portion 342 from the first opening portion 341.

[0417] Next, the user or the like moves the stopper portion 347 outward of the guide portion 346.

[0418] As Figure 40A 、 Figure 40B and Figure 41As shown, next, the user uses a tool to press the opening pin portion 345 inward into the main body case 301. In this way, the lower end of the pipe fixing pin 351 contacts the upper surface of the capillary tube serving as the expander 312, suppressing the upward movement of the capillary tube serving as the expander 312.

[0419] In addition, the lower surface of the capillary tube serving as the expander 312 and the rear side of the main body case 301 of the capillary tube serving as the expander 312 are supported by the pipe support portion 348. Therefore, the movement of the capillary tube serving as the expander 312 downward and toward the rear side of the main body case 301 is also suppressed.

[0420] Next, the user further presses the opening pin portion 345 inward into the main body case 301 using a tool. In this way, the front end of the opening pin 350 is inserted into the front side of the main body case 301 of the capillary tube serving as the expander 312, and a hole 353 is formed in the capillary tube serving as the expander 312. Refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 306 is discharged into the atmosphere from this hole 353.

[0421] (Eighth Embodiment)

[0422] Next, the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0423] Figure 42 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dehumidifying device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 43 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 44 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention, showing a state where the first lid portion 372a and the second lid portion 372b are opened from the main body case 361. Figure 45 is an external perspective view of the dehumidifying device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention, showing a state where the first lid portion 372a and the second lid portion 372b are opened from the main body case 361 and a hole 374 is formed in the refrigerant pipe 369. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the sixth embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0424] As Figure 42 , Figure 43 , Figure 44 and Figure 45 shown, the main body case 361 has a substantially box shape (including a box shape) and can be installed on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356. Specifically, a suction port 362 and a blowout port 363 serving as openings are provided on the bottom surface of the main body case 361.

[0425] The main body housing 361 is provided on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356. An opening is formed in the ceiling 358 of the bathroom 356, and the suction port 362 and the blowout port 363 communicate with the inside of the bathroom 356 through this opening.

[0426] Inside the main body housing 301, there are a refrigeration cycle 306, a blower section 307, a control section 309, and an air duct 364.

[0427] The refrigeration cycle 306 is a structure in which a compressor 310, a condenser 311, an expander 312, and an evaporator 313 are connected in series in a loop to circulate a refrigerant. In addition, as the refrigerant, a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less is used. For example, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a), ethane (R170), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234yf), etc. can be used as the refrigerant. The compressor 310, the condenser 311, the expander 312, and the evaporator 313 are connected by a refrigerant pipe 369, which is a structure for circulating the refrigerant.

[0428] The control section 309 is arranged at the lower part of the main body housing 361. The control section 309 controls the motor of the blower section 307 and the compressor 310 based on the input of the switch of an operation section (not shown) pressed by the user.

[0429] An air duct 364 is formed inside the main body housing 361. The air duct 364 is an air passage that sucks the air inside the bathroom 356 from the suction port 362 through the blower section 307, and discharges the sucked air to the blowout port 363 through the evaporator 313, the blower section 307, and the condenser 311 in sequence.

[0430] In the air duct 364, the air inside the bathroom 356 sucked from the suction port 362 is supplied to the evaporator 313. At this time, the moisture in the air condenses on the evaporator 313, becoming dry air. And since the air is supplied to the condenser 311, in a state where the humidity decreases and the temperature rises, the air is blown into the bathroom 356 from the blowout port 363 through the blower section 307. Thus, the dried air is conveyed into the bathroom 356 to dry the washed clothes being dried, etc.

[0431] In addition, a drain pan 365, a drain pipe 366, and a drain pump 367 are provided inside the main body housing 361.

[0432] The drain pan 365 is arranged below the evaporator 313 and stores the condensed water dripping from the evaporator 313. The drain pipe 366 extends from the drain pan 365 to the outside of the main body housing 361. The drain pump 367 is arranged inside the drain pan 365 and is connected to the drain pipe 366.

[0433] The water condensed in the evaporator 313 drips from the evaporator 313 into the drain pan 365, and the condensed water accumulated in the drain pan 365 is discharged from the drain pan 365 to the outside of the main body case 361 through the drain pump 367 via the drain pipe 366.

[0434] In addition, the main body case 361 can be provided on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356. The main body case 361 is in a substantially box shape (including a box shape). In a state where the main body case 361 is provided on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356, an intake port 362 and an air outlet 363 communicating with the bathroom 356 are provided below the main body case 361 via an opening provided in the ceiling 358. And in this state, a first opening 371a and a first cover portion 372a that covers the first opening 371a and can be detached and attached to and from the first surface 361a are provided on one of the plurality of side surfaces of the main body case 361, that is, the first surface 361a.

[0435] In addition, in a state where the main body case 361 is provided on the back surface 357 of the ceiling, the first surface 361a may also be the top surface 361c of the main body case 361.

[0436] The first cover portion 372a is a substantially flat plate in a horizontally long quadrilateral shape (including a flat plate), and is fixed to the first surface 361a of the main body case 361 provided with the first opening 371a by screws 373a, and is a detachable structure. The surface on one side (inner side) of the first cover portion 372a faces a part of the refrigeration cycle 306 (a part of the refrigerant pipe 369), and the surface on the other side (outer side) of the first cover portion 372a becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body case 361. If the screws 373a are removed from the main body case 361 and the first cover portion 372a is opened from the main body case 361, a hole 374 can be formed in the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 using a tool via the first opening 371a. After the hole 374 is formed in the refrigerant pipe 369, the refrigerant having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less in the refrigeration cycle 306 is discharged into the atmosphere.

[0437] In a state where the main body case 361 is provided on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356, the first opening 371a through which the hole 374 can be formed in the refrigeration cycle 306 is provided on one of the plurality of side surfaces of the main body case 361 or the top surface 361c, that is, the first surface 361a.

[0438] According to such a structure, in a state where the main body case 361 is disposed on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356, the first lid portion 372a of the first opening portion 371a cannot be removed from the inside of the bathroom 356. As a result, in a state where the main body case 361 is disposed on the back surface 357 of the ceiling of the bathroom 356, it is possible to prevent the refrigeration cycle 306 from being accidentally opened through the first opening portion 371a from inside the bathroom 356.

[0439] In addition, the main body case 361 includes: a second opening portion 371b provided on a second surface 361b different from the first surface 361a among a plurality of side surfaces of the main body case 361; and a second lid portion 372b that covers the second opening portion 371b and is detachable from the second surface 361b.

[0440] In addition, in a state where the main body case 361 is disposed on the back surface 357 of the ceiling, when the first surface 361a is one of the side surfaces of the main body case 361, the second surface 361b may be the top surface 361c of the main body case 361.

[0441] The second lid portion 372b is a substantially flat plate (including a flat plate) having a horizontally long quadrilateral shape, and is fixed to the second surface 361b of the main body case 361 provided with the second opening portion 371b by screws 373b, and has a detachable structure. The second opening portion 371b communicates with a space 368 in which the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 is disposed.

[0442] One side (inner side) surface of the second lid portion 372b becomes a part of the inner surface of the space 368 in which the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 is disposed, and the other side (outer side) surface of the second lid portion 372b becomes a part of the outer surface of the main body case 361.

[0443] Accordingly, after removing the screw 373a from the main body case 361, opening the first lid portion 372a from the main body case 361, removing the screw 373b from the main body case 361, opening the second lid portion 372b from the main body case 361, and forming a hole 374 in the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 via the first opening portion 371a using a tool, the refrigerant is ejected from the hole 374.

[0444] The ejected refrigerant is discharged to the outside of the main body case 361 via the first opening portion 371a and the second opening portion 371b. Since the refrigerant is discharged from the inside of the main body case 361 from a surface different from the surface having the first opening portion 371a and the surface having the second opening portion 371b in the main body case 361, the refrigerant is more reliably discharged from the inside of the main body case 361 to the outside of the main body case 361, and the safety is improved.

[0445] In addition, the opening area of the second opening portion 371b may be larger than the opening area of the first opening portion 371a.

[0446] When a hole 374 is formed in the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 through the first opening 371a using a tool, refrigerant is ejected from the hole 374 into the main body housing 361. A part of the refrigerant ejected into the main body housing 361 is discharged to the outside of the main body housing 361 through the first opening 371a, and the other refrigerant is discharged to the outside of the main body housing 361 through the second opening 371b. Here, when the opening area of the second opening 371b is larger than the opening area of the first opening 371a, the amount of refrigerant discharged through the first opening 371a is less than the amount of refrigerant discharged through the second opening 371b. As a result, the amount of refrigerant discharged to the user side where the hole 374 is formed in the refrigerant pipe 369 using the tool can be reduced, and the safety is improved.

[0447] In addition, the first lid portion 372a and the second lid portion 372b may also be integrally formed (see Figure 44 ).

[0448] Thus, unless the screws 373a and 373b are removed from the main body housing 361 and the integrally formed first lid portion 372a and second lid portion 372b are opened from the first opening 371a and the second opening 371b of the main body housing 361, the hole 374 cannot be formed in the refrigeration cycle 306 through the first opening 371a using the tool. As a result, when forming the hole 374 in the refrigeration cycle 306, the second lid portion 372b will not be forgotten to be opened from the second opening 371b, so that the refrigerant ejected from the hole 374 of the refrigerant pipe 369 in the refrigeration cycle 306 can be reliably discharged to the outside of the main body housing 361 through the second opening 371b.

[0449] In addition, the first opening 371a is provided at the lower part of the first surface 361a which is one of the plurality of side surfaces of the main body housing 361, and the second opening 371b is provided at the lower part of the second surface 361b which is another side surface of the main body housing 361 adjacent to the first surface 361a. In addition, a display portion 332 for displaying a method of forming a hole in the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 is provided on the top surface 361c of the main body housing 361 (see Figure 44 ).

[0450] Accordingly, when the user of the dehumidifying device or a waste collector removes the dehumidifying device from the bathroom 356 for disposal, it is possible to open a hole 374 in the refrigeration cycle 306 from the first opening 371a while reading the display unit 332 outdoors with the top surface 361c of the main body housing 361 facing upward. Therefore, the refrigerant ejected from the hole 374 of the refrigeration cycle 306 is discharged from the first opening 371a and the second opening 371b at the lower side, and is easily discharged below the person opening the hole 374 in the refrigeration cycle 306, thus improving safety.

[0451] In addition, the first opening 371a has a vertically long shape, the second opening 371b has a horizontally long shape, and the refrigerant pipe 369 of the refrigeration cycle 306 seen from the first opening 371a extends in the horizontal direction along the first surface 361a.

[0452] In this way, when the first opening 371a has a vertically long shape, even if the height of the operator's line of sight changes up and down, it is easier to observe the refrigerant pipe 369 from the vertically long first opening 371a than when observing a part of the refrigerant pipe 369 extending in the horizontal direction from the horizontally long first opening 371a. In addition, a tool capable of clamping and cutting is inserted into the first opening 371a, and a part of the refrigerant pipe 369 extending in the horizontal direction is clamped and cut from the vertical direction, so that the hole 374 can be easily opened. In addition, at the moment when a part of the refrigerant pipe 369 is cut off, when observing the refrigerant pipe 369 from the first opening 371a, the refrigerant ejected from the refrigerant pipe 369 is ejected in the horizontal direction, so that the ejection of the refrigerant from the first opening 371a can be suppressed.

[0453] Industrial applicability

[0454] The dehumidifying device of the present invention is useful as a dehumidifying device for drying clothes or the like.

[0455] Description of reference numerals

[0456] 1 Main body housing

[0457] 2 Suction port

[0458] 3 Air outlet

[0459] 4 Blinds

[0460] 5 Operation unit

[0461] 6 Refrigeration cycle

[0462] 7 Air supply unit

[0463] 7a Housing

[0464] 7b Inlet

[0465] 7c spray outlet

[0466] 8 water storage tank section

[0467] 8a tank

[0468] 9 control section

[0469] 10 compressor

[0470] 11 condenser

[0471] 11a heat sink

[0472] 11b connecting pipe

[0473] 12 expander

[0474] 13 evaporator

[0475] 13a heat sink

[0476] 13b connecting pipe

[0477] 14 air duct

[0478] 20 waste disposal mechanism section

[0479] 21 opening

[0480] 22 cover

[0481] 23 hinge section

[0482] 24 hole

[0483] 25 opening pin part

[0484] 26 guide part

[0485] 27 stop part

[0486] 28 connecting pipe support section

[0487] 29 pressing plate

[0488] 30 opening pin

[0489] 31 hole

[0490] 32 display section

[0491] 33 filter section

[0492] 40 locking mechanism

[0493] 41 opening

[0494] 42 cover

[0495] 43 connection section

[0496] 44 waste disposal mechanism section

[0497] 45 Opening pin part

[0498] 46 Guide part

[0499] 47 Stopper part

[0500] 48 Connecting pipe support part

[0501] 49 Pressure plate

[0502] 50 Opening pin

[0503] 51 Connecting pipe fixing pin

[0504] 52 Hole

[0505] 53 Hole

[0506] 56 Bathroom

[0507] 57 Ceiling back surface

[0508] 58 Ceiling

[0509] 61 Main body housing

[0510] 61a First surface

[0511] 61b Second surface

[0512] 61c Top surface

[0513] 62 Suction port

[0514] 63 Blowout port

[0515] 64 Air supply path

[0516] 65 Drainage pan

[0517] 66 Drain pipe

[0518] 67 Drainage pump

[0519] 68 Space

[0520] 69 Refrigerant pipe

[0521] 70 Waste disposal mechanism part

[0522] 71a First opening part

[0523] 71b Second opening part

[0524] 72a First cover part

[0525] 72b Second cover part

[0526] 73a Screw

[0527] 73b Screw

[0528] 74 Hole

[0529] 75 Opening pin part

[0530] 76 Guide part

[0531] 77 Stopper part

[0532] 78 Connecting pipe support part

[0533] 79 Pressure plate

[0534] 80 Opening pin

[0535] 101 Main body housing

[0536] 102 Suction port

[0537] 103 Blowout port

[0538] 104 Louver

[0539] 105 Operation part

[0540] 106 Refrigeration cycle

[0541] 107 Air supply part

[0542] 107a Housing

[0543] 107b Inlet

[0544] 107c Spray outlet

[0545] 108 Water storage tank part

[0546] 108a Tank

[0547] 109 Control part

[0548] 110 Compressor

[0549] 111 Condenser

[0550] 111a Heat sink

[0551] 111b Connecting pipe

[0552] 112 Expander

[0553] 113 Evaporator

[0554] 113a Heat sink

[0555] 113b Connecting pipe

[0556] 114 Air supply path

[0557] 132 Display part

[0558] 133 Filter part

[0559] 140 Locking mechanism

[0560] 141 Opening

[0561] 142 Cover

[0562] 143 Connecting part

[0563] 144 Waste disposal mechanism part

[0564] 145 Punch pin part

[0565] 146 Guide part

[0566] 146a Cylinder part

[0567] 146b Cover part

[0568] 146c Communication hole

[0569] 146d Communication hole

[0570] 147 Stopper part

[0571] 148 Connecting pipe support part

[0572] 149 Pressure plate

[0573] 150 Punch pin

[0574] 151 Connecting pipe fixing pin

[0575] 152 Hole

[0576] 153 Hole

[0577] 154 Power cord

[0578] 155 Refrigerant waste switch

[0579] 201 Main body housing

[0580] 202 Suction port

[0581] 203 Air outlet

[0582] 204 Blinds

[0583] 205 Operation part

[0584] 206 Refrigeration cycle

[0585] 207 Air supply part

[0586] 207a Housing

[0587] 207b Inlet

[0588] 207c Spray outlet

[0589] 208 Water storage tank part

[0590] Tank 208a

[0591] Control unit 209

[0592] Compressor 210

[0593] Condenser 211

[0594] Radiator 211a

[0595] Connecting pipe 211b

[0596] Expander 212

[0597] Evaporator 213

[0598] Radiator 213a

[0599] Connecting pipe 213b

[0600] Air supply path 214

[0601] Display unit 216

[0602] Filter unit 217

[0603] Opening 221

[0604] Cover part 222

[0605] Connection part 223

[0606] Waste disposal mechanism part 224

[0607] Perforated pin part 225

[0608] Guide part 226

[0609] Cover member 226b

[0610] Stopper part 227

[0611] Pipe support part 228

[0612] Pressing plate 229

[0613] Perforated pin 230

[0614] Pipe fixing pin 231

[0615] Hole 232

[0616] Hole 233

[0617] Power plug 235

[0618] Refrigerant emission suppression part 236

[0619] On-off valve 237

[0620] Check valve 238

[0621] 239 Electromagnetic control unit

[0622] 240 Waste detection section

[0623] 241 Electromagnetic action section

[0624] 301 Main body housing

[0625] 302 Suction port

[0626] 303 Air outlet

[0627] 304 Louver

[0628] 305 Operation unit

[0629] 306 Refrigeration cycle

[0630] 307 Air supply section

[0631] 307a Housing

[0632] 307b Inlet

[0633] 307c Jet outlet

[0634] 308 Water storage tank section

[0635] 308a Tank

[0636] 309 Control unit

[0637] 310 Compressor

[0638] 311 Condenser

[0639] 311a Heat sink

[0640] 311b Connecting pipe

[0641] 312 Expander

[0642] 313 Evaporator

[0643] 313a Heat sink

[0644] 313b Connecting pipe

[0645] 314 Air supply path

[0646] 321 First opening

[0647] 323 Display section

[0648] 324 Filter section

[0649] 325 Tool

[0650] 332 Display section

[0651] 341 First opening

[0652] 342 Cover part

[0653] 343 Connecting part

[0654] 344 Waste disposal mechanism part

[0655] 345 Opening pin part

[0656] 346 Guide part

[0657] 347 Stopping part

[0658] 348 Pipe support part

[0659] 349 Pressure plate

[0660] 350 Opening pin

[0661] 351 Pipe fixing pin

[0662] 352 Hole

[0663] 353 Hole

[0664] 356 Bathroom

[0665] 357 Ceiling back surface

[0666] 358 Ceiling

[0667] 361 Main body housing

[0668] 361a First surface

[0669] 361b Second surface

[0670] 361c Top surface

[0671] 362 Suction port

[0672] 363 Blowing port

[0673] 364 Air supply path

[0674] 365 Drainage pan

[0675] 366 Drain pipe

[0676] 367 Drainage pump

[0677] 368 Space

[0678] 369 Refrigerant pipe

[0679] 371a First opening part

[0680] 371b Second opening part

[0681] 372a First cover part

[0682] 372b Second cover part

[0683] 373a Screw

[0684] 373b Screw

[0685] 374 Hole.

Claims

1. A dehumidifying device, comprising a main body housing having a suction port and a blowout port, inside the main body housing there are: at least a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator are connected in a ring in sequence; a blower unit for making the refrigeration cycle function; and a control unit for controlling the refrigeration cycle and the blower unit, the refrigeration cycle uses a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less, and has a waste disposal mechanism unit capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere.

2. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1, wherein the waste disposal mechanism unit is configured to be operable from the outside of the main body housing.

3. The dehumidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the main body housing further has: an opening for communicating the waste disposal mechanism unit with the outside of the main body housing; and a cover portion provided at the opening, the opening, the cover portion, and the waste disposal mechanism unit are configured such that after opening the cover portion from the opening, the waste disposal mechanism unit can be operated via the opening.

4. The dehumidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the main body housing further has a locking mechanism for preventing accidental operation of the waste disposal mechanism unit, the locking mechanism is configured such that the waste disposal mechanism unit can be operated after releasing the locking mechanism using a tool.

5. The dehumidifying device according to claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism has: an opening for communicating the waste disposal mechanism unit with the outside of the main body housing; a cover portion provided at the opening; and a connecting portion connecting the opening and the cover portion, the cover portion of the locking mechanism is configured to be opened from the opening by cutting the connecting portion using the tool, the opening, the cover portion, and the waste disposal mechanism unit are configured such that after opening the cover portion from the opening, the waste disposal mechanism unit can be operated via the opening.

6. The dehumidifying device according to claim 3, wherein when the waste disposal mechanism unit is operated, the waste disposal mechanism unit makes an opening in the refrigeration cycle.

7. The dehumidifying device according to claim 5, wherein when the waste disposal mechanism unit is operated, the waste disposal mechanism unit makes an opening in the refrigeration cycle.

8. The dehumidifying device according to claim 3, wherein a display portion for displaying the operation method of the waste disposal mechanism unit is provided on the surface of the main body housing having the opening and the cover portion.

9. The dehumidifying device according to claim 3, wherein the suction port has a filter portion for trapping dust provided in a detachable manner, the filter portion covers the opening and the cover portion.

10. The dehumidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the main body housing substantially has a box shape, can be installed on the back of the ceiling of a bathroom, and is installed such that the suction port and the blowout port can communicate with the bathroom via an opening provided in the ceiling, the main body housing further has: A first opening portion that is provided on a first surface which is one of a plurality of side surfaces or the top surface of the main body case, and that communicates the waste mechanism portion with the outside of the main body case, in a state where the main body case is provided on the back surface of the ceiling of the bathroom; and a first lid portion that covers the first opening portion and is detachable from and attachable to the first surface; The first opening portion, the first lid portion, and the waste mechanism portion are configured such that when the first lid portion is opened from the first opening portion, the waste mechanism portion can be operated via the first opening portion, and when the waste mechanism portion is operated, the waste mechanism portion makes an opening in the refrigerant pipe of the refrigeration cycle.

11. The dehumidifying device according to claim 10, wherein the main body case has: a second surface which is a side surface different from the first surface among the plurality of side surfaces or the top surface; a second opening portion that is provided on the second surface and communicates the refrigerant pipe of the refrigeration cycle with the outside of the main body case; and a second lid portion that covers the second opening portion and is detachable from and attachable to the second surface.

12. The dehumidifying device according to claim 11, wherein the first lid portion and the second lid portion are formed integrally.

13. The dehumidifying device according to claim 11, wherein the first surface is one of the plurality of side surfaces of the main body case, the first opening portion is provided at a lower portion of the first surface, the second opening portion is provided at a lower portion of the second surface which is a side surface adjacent to the first surface, a display portion for displaying an operation method of the waste mechanism portion is provided on the top surface of the main body case.

14. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1, wherein a power cord electrically connected to the control portion is further provided, the waste mechanism portion has a structure that prevents the refrigeration cycle and the operation of the air blowing portion when the refrigerant is discharged into the atmosphere when the waste mechanism portion is operated.

15. The dehumidifying device according to claim 14, wherein when the waste mechanism portion is operated in a state where the air blowing portion and the refrigeration cycle are operating, the waste mechanism portion stops supplying power to the air blowing portion, the refrigeration cycle, and the control portion.

16. The dehumidifying device according to claim 15, wherein the waste mechanism portion has: a punching pin portion that is movably provided on the main body case and makes an opening in the refrigeration cycle; and a refrigerant waste switch that electrically connects the control portion and the power cord, the waste mechanism portion is configured such that when the punching pin portion moves to make the opening in the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant waste switch changes from a conductive state to a non-conductive state.

17. The dehumidifying device according to claim 16, wherein the waste mechanism portion further has a guiding portion that movably supports the punching pin portion, the refrigerant waste switch is provided on the guiding portion, The waste mechanism part is configured such that when the opening pin part moves to open the hole in the refrigeration cycle, the opening pin part contacts the refrigerant waste switch, and the refrigerant waste switch changes from the conducting state to the non-conducting state.

18. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1, further comprising: a power plug electrically connected to the refrigeration cycle, the air supply part, and the control part; and a refrigerant emission suppression part that can suppress the emission of the refrigerant even when the waste mechanism part operates when the power plug is electrically connected to a power socket.

19. The dehumidifying device according to claim 18, wherein: The refrigerant emission suppression part includes: an opening and closing valve provided in the refrigeration cycle for opening and closing the flow path of the refrigerant; a check valve provided in the refrigeration cycle and arranged at a position downstream of the opening and closing valve in the refrigerant flow direction to suppress the reverse flow of the refrigerant; and an electromagnetic control part that controls the opening and closing valve based on the operation of the waste mechanism part, The electromagnetic control part is electrically connected to the power plug, The waste mechanism part is arranged at a position in the refrigeration cycle that is downstream of the opening and closing valve in the refrigerant flow direction and upstream of the check valve in the refrigerant flow direction.

20. In the dehumidifying device according to claim 19, the expander is a capillary tube, The opening and closing valve, the waste mechanism part, and the check valve are provided in the capillary tube.

21. The dehumidifying device according to claim 19, wherein: The electromagnetic control part includes: a waste detection part provided in the waste mechanism part for detecting the operation of the waste mechanism part; and an electromagnetic operation part that causes the opening and closing valve to operate when the waste detection part detects the operation of the waste mechanism part.

22. A dehumidifying device includes a main body housing having a suction port and a blowout port, Inside the main body housing, there are: at least a refrigeration cycle in which a compressor, a condenser, an expander, and an evaporator are connected in series in a ring; an air supply part that enables the refrigeration cycle to function; and a control part that controls the refrigeration cycle and the air supply part, The refrigeration cycle uses a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 10 or less, The main body housing also has a first opening that communicates the inside of the main body housing with the outside of the main body housing, and the refrigeration cycle can be opened through the first opening.

23. In the dehumidifying device according to claim 22, The hole can be opened in the expander through the first opening.

24. In the dehumidifying device according to claim 23, The first opening is disposed opposite to the expander.

25. In the dehumidifying device according to claim 22, It further has a filter part that captures dust and is detachably provided at the suction port, The filter part covers the first opening.

26. In the dehumidifying device according to claim 24, The expander is a capillary tube, the first opening portion has a longitudinally elongated shape, and when observing the expander from the first opening portion, a part of the expander extends laterally.

27. The dehumidifying device according to claim 23, wherein In the first opening portion, there is also a waste mechanism portion capable of discharging the refrigerant into the atmosphere. When the waste mechanism portion is operated, the waste mechanism portion forms the hole in the expander.

28. The dehumidifying device according to claim 22, wherein The main body casing substantially has a box shape and can be provided on the back surface of the ceiling of the bathroom, and is provided such that the suction port and the blowout port can communicate with the bathroom via an opening provided in the ceiling. The main body casing has: The first opening portion provided on a first surface which is one of a plurality of side surfaces or the top surface of the main body casing in a state where the main body casing is provided on the back surface of the ceiling of the bathroom; And A first lid portion that covers the first opening portion and is detachable from the first surface.

29. The dehumidifying device according to claim 28, wherein The main body casing further has: A second opening portion provided on a second surface which is a side surface different from the first surface or the top surface among the plurality of side surfaces; and A second lid portion that covers the second opening portion and is detachable from the second surface.

30. The dehumidifying device according to claim 29, wherein The opening area of the second opening portion is larger than the opening area of the first opening portion.

31. The dehumidifying device according to claim 29, wherein The first lid portion and the second lid portion are formed integrally.

32. The dehumidifying device according to claim 29, wherein The first surface is one of the plurality of side surfaces of the main body casing, The first opening portion is provided at the lower portion of the first surface, The second opening portion is provided at the lower portion of the second surface which is a side surface adjacent to the first surface among the plurality of side surfaces, On the top surface of the main body casing, there is also a display portion that displays a method of forming the hole in the refrigeration cycle.

33. The dehumidifying device according to claim 29, wherein The first opening portion has a longitudinally elongated shape, The second opening portion has a horizontally elongated shape, The refrigerant pipe of the refrigeration cycle observed from the first opening portion extends laterally along the first surface.

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