Heat exchange device and total heat exchange ventilation system

Abstract

The heat exchange device comprises: an axial fan capable of switching the direction of an air flow to the opposite side; heat exchange elements arranged in the direction of the axial fan and the airflow; a pair of rectifying parts provided on both sides of the heat exchange element in the direction of the air flow; and a tube that is a cylindrical body extending in the direction of the air flow, the tube housing the axial fan, the heat exchange element, and the pair of rectifying parts, each of the pair of rectifying parts having a rectifying plate that is displaceable to change the direction, and rectifying the air flow in accordance with the direction of the rectifying plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat exchange device and a total heat exchange ventilation system. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-17213 filed in Japan on February 8, 2023, and the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] A heat storage element capable of absorbing heat and moisture from gas and storing the heat to a predetermined temperature, and a ventilation unit using the heat storage element are known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, two ventilation units can each perform both air supply and exhaust. In each ventilation unit, the rotation direction of the ventilation fan during air supply and the rotation direction of the ventilation fan during air exhaust are switched to opposite directions.

[0003] In the exhaust ventilation unit, the rotation of the ventilation fan draws indoor air into the heat storage element, where it is then discharged outdoors. In the supply ventilation unit, the rotation of the ventilation fan draws outdoor air through the heat storage element, where it is then supplied indoors. The heat storage element absorbs the heat and moisture contained in the air passing through it and stores them to a specified value. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-113463 Summary of the Invention Technical problems to be solved by the present invention

[0005] When the ventilation fan is an axial flow fan, the following uneven wind speed distribution (wind speed unevenness) occurs in the thermal storage element during both the ventilation fan's air supply and exhaust operations. For example, when the ventilation fan draws air from the thermal storage element during exhaust operation, when measuring the wind speed of the indoor air flowing into the thermal storage element, the wind speed on the ventilation fan's axis (the center of the thermal storage element) is relatively high, while the wind speed on the ventilation fan's outer end (the outer side of the thermal storage element) is relatively low. On the other hand, when the ventilation fan supplies air to the thermal storage element during supply operation, when measuring the wind speed of the outdoor air flowing out of the thermal storage element, the wind speed on the ventilation fan's axis (the inner side of the thermal storage element) is relatively low, while the wind speed on the ventilation fan's outer end (the outer side of the thermal storage element) is relatively high.

[0006] Therefore, during exhaust, the outer portions of the heat storage element, where the wind speed is relatively high, experience higher air flow, while the center portion, where the wind speed is relatively slow, experiences lower air flow. Conversely, during air supply, the center portion experiences higher air flow, while the outer portions experience lower air flow. This uneven wind speed can reduce the efficiency of latent heat (humidity) exchange within the heat storage element. This uneven wind speed is particularly prone to occur in ductless heat exchange devices, where the distance between the axial flow fan and the heat storage element is small.

[0007] For example, when high-temperature, high-humidity outdoor air is supplied, most of the outdoor air flows around the outer edges of the thermal storage element, with little flow through the center. Consequently, a large amount of moisture is absorbed from the outer edges of the thermal storage element. Subsequently, when low-temperature, low-humidity indoor air is discharged, most of the indoor air flows through the center of the thermal storage element, with little flow through the outer edges. Consequently, moisture is not easily released from the outer edges of the thermal storage element. This situation, where moisture is only absorbed and not released from the outer edges of the thermal storage element, can sometimes cause condensation.

[0008] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a heat exchange device and a total heat exchange ventilation system capable of suppressing a decrease in the efficiency of exchanging latent heat (humidity) in a heat exchange element. Technical solutions to technical problems

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a heat exchange device comprising: an axial flow fan capable of switching the direction of an airflow to the opposite side; a heat exchange element arranged in the direction of the axial flow fan and the airflow; a pair of rectifying parts arranged on both sides of the heat exchange element in the direction of the airflow; and a tube, which is a cylindrical body extending in the direction of the airflow, the tube accommodating the axial flow fan, the heat exchange element and the pair of rectifying parts, the pair of rectifying parts respectively having a rectifying plate that can be displaced to change the direction, and rectifying the airflow according to the direction of the rectifying plate.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure involves a full heat exchange ventilation system in which the heat exchange device is provided in a space portion, and the heat exchange device includes a first heat exchange device and a second heat exchange device. When the first heat exchange device supplies air to the space portion, the second heat exchange device exhausts the space portion, and the air supply and the exhaust are switched in a linked manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 It is the overall structural diagram of the full heat exchange ventilation system. Figure 2 It is a perspective view of the heat exchange device according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the heat exchange device according to the first embodiment as viewed from the X direction. Figure 4A It is a longitudinal sectional view of the heat exchange device showing the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 4C This is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining the driving mechanism of the rectifying plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 6A It is a longitudinal sectional view of the heat exchange device showing the exhaust mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 6B This is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion in the exhaust mode of the first embodiment. Figure 6C This is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion in the exhaust mode of the first embodiment. Figure 7A This is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion in the air supply mode according to the second embodiment. Figure 7B It is a perspective view of a second rectifying portion in the air supply mode according to the second embodiment. Figure 8A It is a perspective view of a second rectifying portion in an exhaust mode according to the second embodiment. Figure 8B It is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion in the exhaust mode of the second embodiment. Figure 9 It is a perspective view of a first rectifying portion according to a first modification. Figure 10A It is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion in the air supply mode according to the second modification. Figure 10B This is a perspective view of the first airflow rectifying portion in the exhaust mode of the second modified example. Figure 11A It is a plan view of a transverse straightening plate according to a third embodiment. Figure 11B It is a perspective view of a transverse straightening plate according to a third embodiment. Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing a heat exchange device in an air supply mode according to a third embodiment. Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing a heat exchange device in an air supply mode according to a third embodiment. Figure 14A It is a perspective view of a first rectifying portion in an air supply mode according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 14B This is a perspective view of a second rectifying portion in an air supply mode according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 15A It is a perspective view of a first rectifying portion in an exhaust mode according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 15B It is a perspective view of a first rectifying portion in an exhaust mode according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 16 It is a perspective view of a rectifying plate according to a third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same or equivalent elements will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0013] [First embodiment] [Full heat exchange ventilation system 1] Figure 1 This is the overall structure diagram of the full heat exchange ventilation system 1. Figure 1 As shown, the total heat exchange ventilation system 1 includes a heat exchange device 100 and a control device 900. The heat exchange device 100 is installed in a hole penetrating a wall W of a building, such as a building or a residence, and exchanges sensible heat (temperature) and latent heat (humidity) between supply air from the outside and exhaust air from the room, thereby suppressing changes in indoor temperature and humidity during ventilation.

[0014] The control device 900 is a computer connected to the heat exchange device 100 via a wired or wireless connection, and is used to drive and control the heat exchange device 100. For example, it includes a processor such as a CPU. The control device 900 may include an MCU (Micro Control Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), and may also include an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) to provide other computing functions.

[0015] The total heat exchange ventilation system 1 of this example has multiple (in Figure 1 (In the example, there are two) heat exchange devices 100. Multiple heat exchange devices 100 are installed indoors (space S) of a building. The multiple heat exchange devices 100 include a first heat exchange device 100A and a second heat exchange device 100B. The first heat exchange device 100A can be a single heat exchange device 100 or a plurality of heat exchange devices 100. The second heat exchange device 100B can be a single heat exchange device 100 or a plurality of heat exchange devices 100.

[0016] The control device 900 drives and controls each heat exchange device 100 so that when the first heat exchange device 100A supplies air to the space S, the second heat exchange device 100B exhausts the space S. Furthermore, the control device 900 drives and controls each of the heat exchange devices 100 so that the air supply and exhaust modes are switched in a coordinated manner. Specifically, at predetermined times, the control device 900 switches the operating mode of the first heat exchange device 100A between an air supply mode and an exhaust mode, and switches the operating mode of the second heat exchange device 100B between an exhaust mode and an air supply mode.

[0017] Thus, one of the first heat exchange device 100A and the second heat exchange device 100B operates in the air supply mode while the other operates in the exhaust mode, thereby ventilating the space S. In this case, each of the first heat exchange device 100A and the second heat exchange device 100B absorbs heat and moisture through full heat exchange with the air in one of the air supply mode and the exhaust mode, and dissipates heat and moisture through full heat exchange with the air in the other mode. Therefore, changes in temperature and humidity in the space S during ventilation can be suppressed.

[0018] [Overall Structure of Heat Exchange Device 100] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of the heat exchange device 100 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of the heat exchange device 100 according to the first embodiment as viewed in the X direction. The heat exchange device 100 is a ductless heat exchange device including an axial flow fan 110 , a heat exchange element 120 , a pair of rectifying sections 130 , and a tube 140 .

[0019] When the axial flow fan 110 rotates, airflow is generated along the axis O passing through the center of rotation of the axial flow fan 110. The axial flow fan 110 is a reversible full-flow fan that can switch the direction of the airflow to the opposite side by reversing its rotation direction. The heat exchange element 120 is a heat medium that has the function of exchanging total heat (sensible heat and latent heat) and is arranged in the direction of the airflow with the axial flow fan 110. A pair of rectifying sections 130 are components for adjusting the direction of the airflow and are provided on both sides of the heat exchange element 120 in the direction of the airflow.

[0020] The tube 140 is a cylindrical body extending in the direction of airflow, which accommodates the axial fan 110, the heat exchange element 120 and a pair of rectifying parts 130. In the following, the direction in which the hole passes through the wall W is set to the Z direction. The tube 140 is embedded in the hole of the wall W without a gap in such a way that its axial direction extends in the Z direction. When the tube 140 is observed from the Z direction, the opening of the tube 140 expands in the horizontal direction (X direction) and the vertical direction (Y direction). The openings at both ends of the tube 140 face indoors and outdoors. In this example, the tube 140 is a square tube, but it can also be other tube shapes that match the hole in the wall W (for example, a cylindrical or triangular tube, etc.).

[0021] The pair of rectifying parts 130 includes a first rectifying part 131 and a second rectifying part 132. In the tube 140, the axial flow fan 110, the first rectifying part 131, the heat exchange element 120 and the second rectifying part 132 are arranged in sequence from the outside to the inside. When the axial flow fan 110 rotates, an airflow in the Z direction is generated in the tube 140. The axis O of the axial flow fan 110 is roughly consistent with the cross-sectional center line of the tube 140, and extends in the Z direction in a manner passing through the cross-sectional center of the pair of rectifying parts 130 and the heat exchange element 120. In addition, in the tube 140, the axial flow fan 110, the first rectifying part 131, the heat exchange element 120 and the second rectifying part 132 can also be arranged in sequence from the inside to the outside.

[0022] In the air supply mode of heat exchange device 100, control device 900 rotates axial flow fan 110 in the forward direction, generating airflow from the outside to the inside (airflow toward the downstream side in the Z direction). The outside air blown from axial flow fan 110 is supplied to heat exchange element 120 via first rectifying section 131. At this time, heat exchange element 120 fully exchanges heat with the outside air passing through it. The outside air passing through heat exchange element 120 flows into the room via second rectifying section 132.

[0023] In the exhaust mode of heat exchange device 100, control device 900 generates airflow from indoors to outdoors (airflow toward the upstream side in the Z direction) by reversing axial flow fan 110. Indoor air drawn into axial flow fan 110 flows through second rectifying section 132 into heat exchange element 120. At this point, heat exchange element 120 fully exchanges heat with the indoor air passing through it. The indoor air that has passed through heat exchange element 120 is discharged outdoors via first rectifying section 131 and axial flow fan 110.

[0024] [Heat exchange element 120] Heat exchange element 120 has a structure in which a humidity-control material is supported on a heat storage substrate. This material has the property of absorbing moisture when the ambient humidity is relatively high relative to its equilibrium humidity, and releasing moisture when the ambient humidity is relatively low. Unlike desiccants such as silica gel, humidity-control materials can repeatedly absorb and release moisture, thus, in principle, maintaining their effectiveness semi-permanently.

[0025] The humidity-conditioning material in this example comprises a water-absorbing resin and a humidity-conditioning component (humidity-conditioning liquid) impregnated in the water-absorbing resin. The water-absorbing resin may be either an ionic resin or a nonionic resin. Specific examples of ionic resins include alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid and starch-acrylate graft polymers. A specific example of an alkali metal salt of polyacrylic acid is sodium polyacrylate. The nonionic resin may comprise, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of vinyl acetate copolymers, maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyalkylene oxide.

[0026] The humidity-control component absorbs moisture in the air and preferably contains at least one selected from the group consisting of a deliquescent substance and a polyol. This can further enhance the humidity-control effect.

[0027] Examples of polyols include glycerol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentanediol, trimethylolpropane, butanetriol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, and triethylene glycol. Among these, polyols having three or more hydroxyl groups, such as glycerol, are more preferred. Furthermore, polyols may form dimers or polymers. Furthermore, the polyol may contain only one of the above materials, or two or more.

[0028] Deliquescent substances are classified into salts and water-soluble organic substances. Specific examples of salts include sodium formate, potassium formate, ammonium formate, sodium acetate, potassium acetate, lithium acetate, ammonium acetate, sodium lactate, potassium lactate, sodium benzoate, potassium benzoate, sodium propionate, potassium propionate, calcium chloride, lithium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, zinc chloride, aluminum chloride, lithium bromide, calcium bromide, sodium hydroxide, sodium pyrrolidonecarboxylate, potassium carbonate, calcium citrate, sodium citrate, potassium citrate, and lithium citrate. These salts may be present alone or in combination. Among these, sodium formate, potassium formate, sodium acetate, potassium acetate, and potassium carbonate, which have a high moisture content per unit weight, are preferred. Furthermore, among the above salts, those that form hydrate crystals within the relative humidity range of 30% to 80% in the operating environment, thereby promoting rapid moisture absorption and desorption at a specific humidity threshold, are preferably selected from the group consisting of carboxylates (sodium formate, sodium acetate, and sodium propionate).

[0029] Specific examples of the water-soluble organic substance include sugars such as sucrose, pullulan, glucose, p-xylene, fructose, mannitol, and sorbitol; carboxylic acids such as citric acid; and amides such as urea.

[0030] The humidity-control component may also contain a deliquescent substance, but other components may be added as additives to adjust the threshold humidity. Specific examples of such components include other deliquescent substances, polyols, or components that serve as nuclei for hydrate crystals. Specific examples of nucleating materials include carboxylic acids with two or more carboxyl groups and amides with two or more amide groups.

[0031] Furthermore, when the heat storage substrate supporting the humidity-control material is metal, metal salts may cause corrosion in the heat storage substrate. Therefore, when the heat storage substrate is metal, carboxylates and polyols are preferably selected as humidity-control components. The humidity-control material can be in the form of a powder, granules, or blocks. Alternatively, the water-absorbent resin can be supported on a ventilation member for efficient contact with air.

[0032] To moisten and retain the humidity-control component, the thermal storage substrate may be composed of a material such as a porous body, nonwoven fabric, or woven fabric containing hydrophilic fibers. Alternatively, to increase heat exchange efficiency with air and to increase heat storage capacity, the thermal storage substrate may be composed of a material such as a metal (such as aluminum) or ceramic.

[0033] The thermal storage substrate is composed of a sheet of the aforementioned materials. During the manufacturing process of heat exchange element 120, this sheet is formed into various shapes, such as a flat sheet, a pleated sheet, or a honeycomb sheet. For example, the sheet is first corrugated to form a wave-like (grooved) shape. Next, the formed sheet is bonded to a flat-plate backing made of the same or a different material using an adhesive, thereby creating a single thermal storage substrate.

[0034] As a result, a plurality of cells having fine cavities surrounded by a sheet and a gasket are formed on the heat storage substrate. In the heat exchange element 120, the plurality of cells formed on the heat storage substrate extend in a manner penetrating the heat storage substrate in the Z direction. The heat exchange element 120 has a stacked structure (corrugated structure) of wavy semicircular cells. The air in the tube 140 flows within the cells, thereby being able to pass through the heat exchange element 120 in the Z direction. During the manufacturing process of the heat exchange element 120, a humidity control material is added to the inner surface of the cells. In addition, the cell shape of the heat exchange element 120 is not limited to the above, and various shapes such as hexagonal (honeycomb), circular, and triangular can be adopted.

[0035] When ceramic is used as the heat storage substrate, a honeycomb structure in which cells are arranged in a hexagonal or other uniform pattern is preferred. Multiple cells separated by porous partitions extend through the heat storage substrate in the Z direction, thereby providing multiple flow paths. In the method for manufacturing a honeycomb structure of a heat exchange element made of ceramic, first, raw materials such as ceramic raw material powder, a binder, and a pore-forming material are kneaded to produce a clay. Next, the clay is extruded using a screw extruder to produce a molded body having a honeycomb structure. The resulting molded body is dried or fired to produce a single-piece heat storage substrate.

[0036] In this example, metal is used as the raw material for the thermal storage substrate to increase its heat storage capacity. The thermal storage substrate of heat exchange element 120 is fabricated by stacking metal sheets made of this metal. Multiple cells, each with fine cavities surrounded by metal sheets, are formed on this thermal storage substrate. As a result, heat exchange element 120 functions as a ventilation component, allowing the air being processed to circulate along the inner surfaces of the cells.

[0037] As described above, a humidity-control material is applied to the inner surface of the unit. In this example, since the thermal storage substrate of heat exchange element 120 is metal, a carboxylate salt that forms hydrated crystals is used as the humidity-control component. More preferably, the humidity-control component includes a carboxylate salt that forms hydrated crystals and an additive that adjusts the crystallization threshold humidity. This prevents corrosion of the thermal storage substrate and allows for flexible adjustment of the threshold humidity.

[0038] In the heat exchange element 120, the metal heat storage substrate can exchange sensible heat (temperature) with the air within the cell, and the humidity control material can exchange latent heat (humidity) with the air within the cell. To improve the efficiency of this heat exchange, the heat exchange element 120 preferably has a large contact area with the air. From this perspective, to increase the surface area of ​​the heat storage substrate, a thinner metal sheet can be used to form more microcells. To increase the surface area of ​​the humidity control material, the absorbent resin in the humidity control material can be made into smaller particles, thereby adding more humidity control material to the inner surface of the pores.

[0039] [A pair of rectifying sections 130] Figure 4A It is a longitudinal sectional view showing the heat exchange device 100 in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 4C This is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion 132 in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 1 is a diagram for explaining the driving mechanism of the rectifying plate 300 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4A In the figure, for ease of understanding, the tube 140 is omitted, only the transverse straightening plate 311 of the first straightening portion 131 is shown, and only the transverse straightening plate 321 of the second straightening portion 132 is shown.

[0040] As described above, if a structure is adopted in which a humidity control material is added to the unit of the metal heat storage substrate in the heat exchange element 120, the sensible heat (temperature) moves easily between the metal units, but the latent heat (humidity) moves with difficulty between the metal units. If uneven wind speed occurs in the heat exchange element 120, the possibility of condensation caused by uneven absorption and release of latent heat (humidity) becomes high. Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to suppress uneven wind speed in the heat exchange element 120, a pair of rectifying parts 130 are provided. The pair of rectifying parts 130 each have a rectifying plate 300 (see Figure 3 ), the airflow is rectified according to the direction of the rectifier plate 300.

[0041] like Figure 4B As shown, the first rectifying section 131 includes a square frame portion 411 fixed to the inner circumference of the tube 140. An opening extending through the interior of the frame portion 411 in the Z direction is provided with two longitudinal frames 412 extending in the Y direction, symmetrically disposed about the center of the frame portion 411 in the X direction. Two transverse frames 413 extending in the X direction are disposed between the two longitudinal frames 412, symmetrically disposed about the center of the frame portion 411 in the Y direction. The square opening enclosed by these longitudinal frames 412 and transverse frames 413 is referred to as the central opening 131A of the first rectifying section 131. The axis O of the axial flow fan 110 passes through the central opening 131A.

[0042] The first rectifying section 131 is provided with a plurality of rectifying plates 300. In this example, the rectifying plates 300 include two transverse rectifying plates 311 and two longitudinal rectifying plates 312. Each transverse rectifying plate 311 is used to adjust the direction of the airflow in the vertical direction (Y direction). Each longitudinal rectifying plate 312 is used to adjust the direction of the airflow in the horizontal direction (X direction).

[0043] The two transverse straightening plates 311 are rectangular in shape, elongated in the X direction, and extend from the two transverse frames 413 toward the heat exchange element 120 (downstream in the Z direction). The two longitudinal straightening plates 312 are rectangular in shape, elongated in the Y direction, and extend from the two longitudinal frames 412 toward the heat exchange element 120 (downstream in the Z direction). These four straightening plates 300 are arranged to surround the central opening 131A. In this example, each straightening plate 300 is closer to the inner circumference of the tube 140 than the axis O.

[0044] The plurality of rectifying plates 300 can be rotated so that the end portion of each rectifying plate 300 on the heat exchange element 120 side approaches the axis O. For example, Figure 5The figure shows the movable mechanism of the lower of the two horizontal straightening plates 311. A support shaft 501 extending in the X direction is provided inside the lower of the two horizontal frames 413. The end of the lower horizontal straightening plate 311 on the axial flow fan 110 side (the upstream side in the Z direction) is fixed so as to be rotatable integrally with the support shaft 501. A gear 502 is provided at the end of the support shaft 501 in the X direction. The gear 502 is located inside the vertical frame 412 and is connected to the gear 503 located below it via a belt 504.

[0045] Gear 503 is fixed to the shaft of a motor that is driven to rotate by the control device 900. When the control device 900 rotates the motor, the rotation of gear 503 is transmitted to gear 502 via belt 504, and the horizontal straightening plate 311 rotates around the support shaft 501. As a result, the horizontal straightening plate 311 of this embodiment can be in a normal position extending approximately horizontally (see Figure 6C ) and the inclined position toward the axis O (refer to Figure 4B When the transverse straightening plate 311 is displaced from the normal position to the inclined position, the transverse straightening plate 311 is tilted obliquely rearward so that the end portion 3110 on the heat exchange element 120 side (downstream side in the Z direction) approaches the axis O.

[0046] The other rectifier plates 300 (the upper horizontal rectifier plate 311 and the two longitudinal rectifier plates 312) can also be connected to the Figure 5 The longitudinal straightening plate 312 of this embodiment can be in a normal position extending approximately vertically (refer to Figure 6C ) and the inclined position toward the axis O (refer to Figure 4B ) displacement. In addition, the driving mechanism of the rectifier plate 300 is not limited to Figure 5 For example, any mechanism may be used as long as it can displace the straightening plate 300 to the normal position and the inclined position.

[0047] like Figure 4C As shown, the second rectifying portion 132 has a square frame portion 421, similar to the first rectifying portion 131. Two vertical frames 422 and two horizontal frames 423 are provided at the opening of the frame portion 421. The square opening surrounded by these vertical frames 422 and horizontal frames 423 is referred to as the central opening 132A of the second rectifying portion 132. The axis O of the axial flow fan 110 passes through the central opening 132A.

[0048] The second rectifying section 132, like the first rectifying section 131, has a plurality of rectifying plates 300 (two transverse rectifying plates 321 and two longitudinal rectifying plates 322). The two transverse rectifying plates 321 extend from the two transverse frames 423 toward the heat exchange element 120 side (upstream side in the Z direction). The two longitudinal rectifying plates 322 extend from the two longitudinal frames 422 toward the heat exchange element 120 side (upstream side in the Z direction). These four rectifying plates 300 are arranged so as to surround the central opening 132A. In this example, each rectifying plate 300 is closer to the axis O than the inner circumferential surface of the tube 140. Therefore, the central opening 132A of the second rectifying section 132 is smaller than the central opening 131A of the first rectifying section 131, and the central opening 132A is entirely arranged inside the central opening 131A when viewed in the Z direction.

[0049] The rectifying plate 300 of the second rectifying portion 132 can also be used in conjunction with Figure 5 However, the rectifier plates 300 of the second rectifier section 132 can be rotated in such a manner that the end portion of each rectifier plate 300 on the heat exchange element 120 side is close to the inner peripheral surface of the tube 140 (the outer portion of the tube 140). In this example, the horizontal rectifier plates 321 can be rotated in a normal position extending substantially horizontally (refer to FIG. Figure 4C ) and an inclined position inclined toward the inner peripheral surface side of the tube 140 (refer to Figure 6B ) displacement. The longitudinal straightening plate 322 can be in a normal position extending substantially vertically (refer to Figure 4C ) and an inclined position inclined toward the inner peripheral surface side of the tube 140 (refer to Figure 6B ) displacement.

[0050] As described above, the direction of the airflow is switched in the axial flow fan 110 according to the air supply mode and the exhaust mode. A pair of rectifying sections 130 (a first rectifying section 131 and a second rectifying section 132) each changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 according to the switching of the direction of the airflow in the axial flow fan 110. The pair of rectifying sections 130 is composed of an upstream rectifying section located on the upstream side of the heat exchange element 120 in the direction of the airflow and a downstream rectifying section located on the downstream side of the heat exchange element. As described later, in the air supply mode, the first rectifying section 131 is the upstream rectifying section, and the second rectifying section 132 is the downstream rectifying section. In the exhaust mode, the first rectifying section 131 is the downstream rectifying section, and the second rectifying section 132 is the upstream rectifying section.

[0051] When switching the direction of the airflow in the axial flow fan 110, the upstream rectifying section changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 so that the rectifying plate 300 diffuses a portion of the airflow radially inward or radially outward of the axis O of the axial flow fan 110. The downstream rectifying section changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 so that the area of ​​the rectifying plate 300 facing the airflow is reduced. The following describes the driving methods for the air supply mode and the exhaust mode.

[0052] [Driving method of air supply mode] like Figure 4A As shown, in the heat exchange device 100 in the air supply mode, the forward rotation of the axial flow fan 110 generates airflow from the outside to the inside (airflow toward the downstream side in the Z direction). At this time, the velocity of the airflow delivered by the axial flow fan 110 toward the heat exchange element 120 increases from the axis O toward the inner circumference of the tube 140. Therefore, on the first surface 121 of the heat exchange element 120 facing the axial flow fan 110, the high-speed airflow ST1 is supplied to the inner circumference of the tube 140, while the low-speed airflow ST3 is supplied to the center of the tube 140 (the axis O side), potentially causing uneven airflow.

[0053] Therefore, when the direction of the airflow is switched from the axial flow fan 110 to the heat exchange element 120, the upstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 so that the rectifying plate 300 approaches the axis O as it moves toward the downstream side of the airflow direction, and the angle between the rectifying plate 300 and the axis O is 45 degrees or less. The downstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 so that the rectifying plate 300 is parallel to the axis O. In this example, Figure 4A Figure 4C As shown, when the air supply mode is executed, the control device 900 moves the straightening plates 300 of the first straightening section 131 to the inclined position and moves the straightening plates 300 of the second straightening section 132 to the normal position. The straightening plates 300 in the inclined position are rotated, for example, 30 degrees from the normal position.

[0054] Therefore, if Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, in the first rectifying section 131, the plurality of rectifying plates 300 (the transverse rectifying plates 311 and the longitudinal rectifying plates 312) are all inclined radially inward of the axis O, toward the heat exchange element 120 (downstream in the Z direction). The airflow supplied from the axial flow fan 110 diffuses radially inward of the axis O along the rectifying plates 300. Specifically, the vertical direction (Y direction) of the airflow is adjusted to be directed toward the center of the tube 140 along the transverse rectifying plates 311, and the vertical direction (Y direction) of the airflow is adjusted to be directed toward the center of the tube 140 along the longitudinal rectifying plates 312. As a result, the flow rate and flow velocity of the airflow are increased at the center of the tube 140, where the low-speed airflow ST3 flows.

[0055] Since the inclination angle of each straightening plate 300 relative to the axis O is 45 degrees or less, each straightening plate 300 can smoothly guide the airflow flowing in the Z direction and suppress a decrease in the airflow velocity. In the first straightening portion 131 of this example, each straightening plate 300 is closer to the inner circumference of the tube 140 than the axis O. Therefore, each straightening plate 300 reliably contacts the high-speed airflow ST1 flowing along the inner circumference of the tube 140 and can diffuse the airflow ST1 radially inward of the axis O.

[0056] In summary, the airflow passing through the first rectifying portion 131 and toward the heat exchange element 120 is provided to the entire first surface 121 at a substantially uniform wind speed. The medium-speed airflow ST2 undergoes full heat exchange when passing through the heat exchange element 120 and is discharged from the second surface 122 of the heat exchange element 120. The airflow ST2 discharged from the second surface 122 is supplied to the room through the second rectifying portion 132. At this time, Figure 4A and Figure 4C As shown, each of the rectifying plates 300 shifted to the normal position in the second rectifying portion 132 extends substantially parallel to the Z direction. Therefore, the air flow ST2 passing through the second rectifying portion 132 is prevented from experiencing a decrease in flow velocity due to contact with the rectifying plates 300, and can flow smoothly into the room.

[0057] [Exhaust mode driving method] Figure 6A 1 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the heat exchange device 100 in the exhaust mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 6B It is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion 132 in the exhaust mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 6C It is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 132 in the exhaust mode according to the first embodiment.

[0058] like Figure 6A As shown, in the heat exchange device 100 in exhaust mode, the reverse rotation of the axial flow fan 110 generates airflow from the indoor area toward the outdoor area (airflow toward the upstream side in the Z direction). At this time, due to the suction force of the axial flow fan 110, the velocity of the airflow from the indoor area toward the heat exchange element 120 decreases from the axis O toward the inner circumferential surface of the tube 140. Therefore, on the second surface 122 of the heat exchange element 120 opposite the axial flow fan 110, the high-speed airflow ST1 is supplied to the center side (axis O side) of the tube 140, while the low-speed airflow ST3 is supplied to the inner circumferential surface side of the tube 140, potentially causing uneven airflow.

[0059] Therefore, when the direction of the airflow is switched from the heat exchange element 120 to the direction toward the axial flow fan 110, the upstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 so that the rectifying plate 300 moves further away from the axis O toward the downstream side of the airflow direction and the angle between the rectifying plate 300 and the axis O is less than 45 degrees. The downstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate 300 so that the rectifying plate 300 is parallel to the axis O. In this example, Figure 6A Figure 6C As shown, when the exhaust mode is executed, the control device 900 shifts the straightening plates 300 of the first straightening section 131 to the normal position and shifts the straightening plates 300 of the second straightening section 132 to the inclined position. The straightening plates 300 in the inclined position are rotated, for example, 30 degrees from the normal position.

[0060] Therefore, if Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, in the second rectifying section 132, the plurality of rectifying plates 300 (the transverse rectifying plates 321 and the longitudinal rectifying plates 322) are all inclined radially outward from the axis O, toward the heat exchange element 120 (upstream in the Z direction). The airflow drawn in by the axial flow fan 110 diffuses radially outward from the axis O along the rectifying plates 300. Specifically, the vertical direction (Y direction) of the airflow is adjusted to be directed toward the inner circumference of the tube 140 along the transverse rectifying plates 321, and the vertical direction (Y direction) of the airflow is adjusted to be directed toward the inner circumference of the tube 140 along the longitudinal rectifying plates 322. As a result, the flow rate and flow velocity of the airflow are increased on the inner circumference of the tube 140, where the low-speed airflow ST3 flows.

[0061] Each straightening plate 300 is tilted at an angle of 45 degrees or less relative to the axis O. Therefore, each straightening plate 300 can smoothly guide the airflow flowing in the Z direction, suppressing any decrease in the airflow velocity. In the second straightening portion 132 of this example, each straightening plate 300 is closer to the axis O than the inner circumferential surface of the tube 140. Therefore, each straightening plate 300 reliably contacts the high-speed airflow ST1 flowing along the axis O and can diffuse the airflow ST1 radially outward from the axis O.

[0062] In summary, the airflow passing through the second rectifying portion 132 and toward the heat exchange element 120 is supplied to the entire second surface 122 at a substantially uniform wind speed. This medium-speed airflow ST2 undergoes full heat exchange when passing through the heat exchange element 120 and is discharged from the second surface 121 of the heat exchange element 120. The airflow ST2 discharged from the first surface 121 is discharged to the outside through the first rectifying portion 131 and the axial flow fan 110. At this time, Figure 6A and Figure 6CAs shown, each of the rectifying plates 300 shifted to the normal position in the first rectifying portion 131 extends substantially parallel to the Z direction. Therefore, the air flow ST2 passing through the first rectifying portion 131 is prevented from experiencing a decrease in flow velocity due to contact with the rectifying plates 300, and can flow smoothly to the outside.

[0063] [Second embodiment] The pair of rectifying parts 130 is not limited to the structure shown in the first embodiment, and various structures can be adopted. In the following second to fourth embodiments, the structure of the pair of rectifying parts 130 is different from that of the first embodiment.

[0064] The pair of rectifying units 130 according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 7A This is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 7B This is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion 132 in the air supply mode according to the first embodiment. Figure 8A It is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion 132 in the exhaust mode according to the second embodiment. Figure 8B It is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 in the exhaust mode according to the second embodiment.

[0065] like Figure 7A As shown, the first rectifying portion 131 has a frame portion 411 and a plurality of rectifying plates 300 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the plurality of rectifying plates 300 include a plurality of transverse rectifying plates 311A ​​and 311B, and do not include the longitudinal rectifying plates 312 (see FIG. Figure 4B Each transverse straightening plate 311A, 311B has a rectangular shape with an opening extending inside the frame portion 411 in the X direction, and its ends are supported by the longitudinal frames of the frame portion 411. Multiple (three in this example) transverse straightening plates 311A ​​are arranged at intervals from the center of the opening of the frame portion 411 toward the upper side. Multiple (three in this example) transverse straightening plates 311B are arranged at intervals from the center of the opening of the frame portion 411 toward the lower side.

[0066] Each of the transverse straightening plates 311A ​​and 311B can be displaced to a normal position extending substantially horizontally (see Figure 8B ) and the inclined position toward the axis O (refer to Figure 7A Specifically, when the plurality of transverse straightening plates 311A ​​are displaced from their normal positions to the inclined positions, they are all tilted diagonally downward. When the plurality of transverse straightening plates 311B are displaced from their normal positions to the inclined positions, they are all tilted diagonally upward. At this time, the inclination angle of these straightening plates 300 (transverse straightening plates 311A, 311B) relative to the axis O is 45 degrees or less.

[0067] like Figure 7BAs shown, the second rectifying section 132 has a frame 421 and a plurality of rectifying plates 300 (a plurality of transverse rectifying plates 321A, 321B) similar to the first rectifying section 131 described above. Each transverse rectifying plate 321A, 321B can be displaced to a normal position extending substantially horizontally (see Figure 8B ) and the inclined position toward the axis O (refer to Figure 7A ).

[0068] like Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, when the air supply mode is in effect, the control device 900 displaces the rectifying plates 300 of the first rectifying section 131 to an inclined position and the rectifying plates 300 of the second rectifying section 132 to a normal position. As a result, in the first rectifying section 131, the vertical direction (Y direction) of the airflow is regulated along the rectifying plates 300. As a result, airflow is supplied to the entire first surface 121 radially inward of the axis O at a substantially uniform velocity. In the second rectifying section 132, the rectifying plates 300 extend substantially parallel to the Z direction, minimizing any decrease in airflow velocity and enabling smooth outflow into the room.

[0069] like Figure 8A as well as Figure 8B As shown, when exhaust mode is in effect, the control device 900 shifts the straightening plates 300 of the first straightening section 131 to their normal positions and the straightening plates 300 of the second straightening section 132 to their inclined positions. Consequently, in the second straightening section 132, the vertical (Y-direction) orientation of the airflow is adjusted along the straightening plates 300, thereby diffusing the airflow radially outward from the axis O and providing a substantially uniform airflow velocity to the entire second surface 122. In the first straightening section 131, the straightening plates 300 extend substantially parallel to the Z-direction, thereby minimizing any decrease in airflow velocity and enabling smooth airflow to the outside.

[0070] The frame 411 of the rectifying unit 130 is not limited to a rectangular frame shape, and may have various shapes corresponding to the hole where the rectifying unit 130 is mounted. The plurality of rectifying plates 300 are not limited to having the same shape and size, and may have different shapes and sizes. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 according to the first modification. For example, in the first rectifying portion 131 according to the first modification, the frame 411 is circular, and the plurality of rectifying plates 300 decrease in length as they move away from the center of the opening of the frame 411.

[0071] The rectifying plate 300 of the rectifying portion 130 is not limited to a flat plate shape, and various shapes may be employed. Figure 10A 1 is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 in the air supply mode according to the second modification. Figure 10B It is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 in the exhaust mode according to the second modification.

[0072] like Figure 10A As shown, the first rectifying portion 131 of the second modified example has a frame portion 411 (not shown) and a plurality of rectifying plates 300. The plurality of rectifying plates 300 include a group of upper rectifying plates 1011 and lower rectifying plates 1012. The upper rectifying plates 1011 are semicircular curved plates that protrude upward when viewed from the Z direction. The lower rectifying plates 1012 are semicircular curved plates that protrude downward when viewed from the Z direction. A cylindrical body 1001 that passes through the cylindrical body 1001 in the Z direction is supported in the middle of the inner opening of the frame portion 411. The upper rectifying plates 1011 and the lower rectifying plates 1012 are arranged on the outer circumference of the cylindrical body 1001 in an upper and lower arrangement and are supported by the cylindrical body 1001 so as to be rotatable.

[0073] like Figure 10A As shown, in the air supply mode, when each rectifying plate 300 is displaced to the inclined position, the upper rectifying plate 1011 and the lower rectifying plate 1012 rotate in a direction away from each other, and the end portion of each heat exchange element 120 side (downstream side in the Z direction) approaches the axis O. As a result, in the first rectifying portion 131, the direction of the airflow in the vertical direction (Y direction) is adjusted along the upper rectifying plate 1011 and the lower rectifying plate 1012, so that the airflow is provided to the entire first surface 121 at a substantially uniform wind speed.

[0074] like Figure 10B As shown, in the exhaust mode, when the airflow plates 300 are displaced to their normal positions, the upper airflow plates 1011 and the lower airflow plates 1012 overlap in a horizontal position, forming a cylindrical shape extending in the Z direction as a whole. Therefore, since the upper airflow plates 1011 and the lower airflow plates 1012 extend substantially parallel to the Z direction in the first airflow section 131, a decrease in the airflow velocity is suppressed, allowing the airflow to flow smoothly to the outside.

[0075] [Third embodiment] The pair of rectifying portions 130 of the third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that fins 1102 and 1103 for rectifying the airflow in the horizontal direction (X direction) are provided on the rectifying plate 300 for rectifying the airflow in the vertical direction (Y direction). Figure 11A It is a plan view of a transverse straightening plate 311A ​​according to the third embodiment. Figure 11B It is a perspective view of a horizontal straightening plate 311A ​​according to the third embodiment. Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing a heat exchange device 100 in an air supply mode according to a third embodiment. Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing a heat exchange device 100 in an air supply mode according to a third embodiment.

[0076] like Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, the plurality of transverse straightening plates 311A ​​provided in the first straightening section 131 each include a blade 1101 and a plurality of fins 1102 and 1103. Blades 1101 form the main plate body of the transverse straightening plates 311A ​​and extend radially outward from a rotational centerline C perpendicular to the direction of the airflow. The rotational centerline C passes through a shaft that rotatably supports the blades 1101. The plurality of fins 1102 and 1103 extend upright from the surface of the blades 1101 and in a direction intersecting the rotational centerline C.

[0077] In this example, three fins 1102 and three fins 1103 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the axis O in each horizontal straightening plate 311A. The rotation center line C extends along the X direction orthogonal to the direction of the air flow (Z direction). The three fins 1102 are oriented toward the heat exchange element 120 side (downstream side in the Z direction) and toward the axis O side ( Figure 11A The three fins 1103 are inclined toward the heat exchange element 120 side (downstream side in the Z direction) and toward the axis O side ( Figure 11A The inclination angle of each fin 1102, 1103 relative to the axis O is less than 45 degrees.

[0078] Similar to the transverse straightening plates 311A, the plurality of transverse straightening plates 311B also have a plurality of fins 1102 and 1103 provided on the blades 1101. Specifically, on the straightening plates 300 (transverse straightening plates 311A ​​and 311B) of the first straightening portion 131, the fins 1102 and 1103 extend so as to approach the rotation centerline C as they move toward the downstream side in the airflow direction (downstream side in the Z direction) in the air supply mode.

[0079] The second rectifying section 132 is similar to the first rectifying section 131 described above, and has fins 1102 and 1103 provided on the plurality of rectifying plates 300 (the plurality of transverse rectifying plates 321A and 321B). However, in the rectifying plates 300 (the transverse rectifying plates 321A and 321B) of the second rectifying section 132, the fins 1102 and 1103 of the rectifying plates 300 extend so as to be further away from the rotation center line C as they move toward the downstream side (upstream side in the Z direction) of the airflow in the exhaust mode. Figure 12 , reference Figure 13 ).

[0080] In each rectifying plate 300, a central gap 1104 is formed between the plurality of fins 1202 and the plurality of fins 1203, through which the axis O passes when viewed from above. The width (length in the X direction) of the central gap 1104 is the sum of the shortest distance L1 from the axis O to the plurality of fins 1102 when viewed from above and the shortest distance L2 from the axis O to the plurality of fins 1103 when viewed from above. In this example, the rectifying plate 300 of the first rectifying portion 131 has a larger width of the central gap 1104 than the rectifying plate 300 of the second rectifying portion 132 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 12 , Figure 13 ).

[0081] In the first rectifying portion 131 in the air supply mode, the direction of the airflow in the vertical direction (Y direction) is adjusted along the blades 1101 of each rectifying plate 300, and the airflow is diffused radially inward of the axis O. Figure 12 As shown, the fins 1102 and 1103 of each rectifying plate 300 adjust the direction of the airflow in the left-right direction (X direction), and the airflow diffuses radially inward of the axis O. In the second rectifying portion 132 of the exhaust mode, the blades 1101 of each rectifying plate 300 adjust the direction of the airflow in the up-down direction (Y direction), and the airflow diffuses radially outward of the axis O. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. Figure 13 As shown, the fins 1102 and 1103 of each rectifying plate 300 adjust the direction of the airflow in the left-right direction (X direction), and guide the airflow radially outward of the axis O.

[0082] Thus, even without the longitudinal straightening plates 312, the first and second straightening portions 131, 132 can adjust the direction of the airflow in both the vertical (Y) and horizontal (X) directions, thereby suppressing uneven airflow speed within the heat exchange element 120. Since the inclination angle of each fin 1102, 1103 relative to the axis O is 45 degrees or less, each straightening plate 300 can smoothly guide the airflow flowing in the Z direction, thereby suppressing a decrease in airflow speed.

[0083] In this example, the central gap 1104 of the first flow straightening portion 131 is formed with a large width, so the multiple fins 1102 and 1103 are arranged offset toward the inner circumference of the tube 140. Each fin 1102 and 1103 of the first flow straightening portion 131 reliably contacts the high-speed airflow ST1 flowing along the inner circumference of the tube 140, and can diffuse the airflow ST1 radially inward relative to the axis O. Meanwhile, the central gap 1104 of the second flow straightening portion 132 is formed with a large width, so the multiple fins 1102 and 1103 are arranged offset toward the center of the tube 140. Each fin 1102 and 1103 of the second flow straightening portion 132 reliably contacts the high-speed airflow ST1 flowing along the center of the tube 140, and can diffuse the airflow ST1 radially outward relative to the axis O.

[0084] As a variation of the above embodiment, fins 1102 and 1103 for adjusting the direction of the airflow in the vertical direction (Y direction) may be provided on the flow straighteners 300 (e.g., the longitudinal flow straighteners 312 and 322) for adjusting the direction of the airflow in the horizontal direction (X direction). In this case, in each flow straightener 300, the airflow is adjusted in the horizontal direction (X direction) along the blades 1101, and the airflow is further adjusted in the vertical direction (Y direction) along the fins 1102 and 1103, thereby diffusing the airflow radially inward or outward from the axis O.

[0085] [Fourth embodiment] A pair of rectifying parts 130 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is different in that the airflow is adjusted according to the opening areas of the plurality of openings 1400 provided in the rectifying plate 300 . Figure 14A It is a perspective view of the first rectifying portion 131 in the air supply mode according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 14B It is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion 132 in the air supply mode according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 15A It is a perspective view of the second rectifying portion 132 in the exhaust mode according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 15B FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the first rectifying unit 131 in the exhaust mode of the fourth embodiment. Figure 14A and Figure 14B In the figure, the driving mechanism of the rectifier plate 300 is omitted.

[0086] like Figure 14A As shown, the first rectifying portion 131 of the fourth embodiment supports a rectifying plate 300 at the inner opening of the frame portion 411 so as to be rotatable. The rectifying plate 300 has a plurality of openings 1400 that pass through in the thickness direction. The further away from the axis O the plurality of openings 1400 are, the smaller the opening area is. Figure 14B As shown, the second rectifying portion 132 of the fourth embodiment has the same structure as the first rectifying portion 131, but differs in that the openings 1400 have a larger opening area as they are farther away from the axis O. A larger opening area of ​​the openings 1400 reduces ventilation resistance, while a smaller opening area increases ventilation resistance.

[0087] like Figure 15A As shown, the rectifying plate 300 of the first rectifying part 131 is fixed to the shaft 1501 with an inner opening of the vertically extending frame 411. A gear 1502 is fixed to one end of the shaft 1501, and the gear 1502 is engaged with the gear 1503 of the motor. According to the rotation of the motor, the rectifying plate 300 rotates and moves to the tilted position and the normal position. Figure 14AAs shown, when the rectifying plate 300 is displaced to the inclined position, the rectifying plate 300 extends perpendicularly to the direction of the airflow (Z direction) and blocks the inner opening of the frame portion 411. Figure 15A As shown, when the straightening plate 300 is displaced to the normal position, the straightening plate 300 extends parallel to the direction of airflow (Z direction), opening the inner opening of the open frame portion 411. The straightening plate 300 of the second straightening portion 132 is also displaced to the inclined position and the normal position by the same mechanism.

[0088] The driving mechanism of the rectifier plate 300 is not limited to the above. Figure 15B As shown, the rectifier plate 300 may be a structure in which two blades are connected by a hinge, and the two blades are opened and closed by the rotation of the motor. In this case, when the two blades are closed in a folding manner according to the rotation of the motor, as shown in FIG. Figure 15B As shown, the rectifier plate 300 extends parallel to the direction of the airflow (Z direction) and opens the inner side of the frame portion 411. When the two blades are opened as the motor rotates, as shown in FIG. Figure 15A As shown, the flow straightening plate 300 extends perpendicularly to the direction of airflow (Z direction) and closes the inner opening of the frame portion 411 .

[0089] When the control device 900 is in the air supply mode, the control device 900 causes each rectifying plate 300 of the first rectifying portion 131 to be displaced to an inclined position (see Figure 14A ), and displace the respective rectifier plates 300 of the second rectifier section 132 to their normal positions (refer to Figure 15A 、 Figure 15B In first rectifying section 131, high-speed airflow ST1 flowing on the inner circumferential side of tube 140 passes through opening 1400 with a small opening area, thus easily reducing its flow rate. Low-speed airflow ST3 flowing on the central side of tube 140 passes through opening 1400 with a large opening area, thus less likely to reduce its flow rate.

[0090] As a result, the airflow passing through the rectifying plates 300 of the first rectifying portion 131 is diffused from the inner circumferential surface toward the center of the tube 140. The airflow passing through the first rectifying portion 131 is supplied to the entire first surface 121 of the heat exchange element 120 at a substantially uniform velocity. In the second rectifying portion 132, the rectifying plates 300 extend substantially parallel to the Z direction, thereby suppressing any decrease in the airflow velocity.

[0091] When the exhaust mode is in effect, the control device 900 shifts the rectifying plates 300 of the first rectifying section 131 to their normal positions and shifts the rectifying plates 300 of the second rectifying section 132 to their inclined positions. In the second rectifying section 132, the high-speed airflow ST1 flowing toward the center of the tube 140 passes through the openings 1400 with their small opening areas, thus easily reducing its flow rate. The low-speed airflow ST3 flowing toward the inner circumference of the tube 140 passes through the openings 1400 with their large opening areas, thus seldom reducing its flow rate.

[0092] As a result, the airflow passing through the rectifying plates 300 of the second rectifying section 132 diffuses from the center toward the inner circumference of the tube 140. The airflow passing through the second rectifying section 132 and toward the heat exchange element 120 is supplied to the entire second surface 122 at a substantially uniform velocity. In the first rectifying section 131, the rectifying plates 300 extend substantially parallel to the Z direction, thereby suppressing any decrease in the airflow velocity.

[0093] The number, shape, and forming method of the plurality of openings 1400 can be variously adopted. For example, the plurality of openings 1400 can be formed of punched metal, or can be formed in a mesh or slit shape. Figure 16 3 is a perspective view of a flow straightening plate 300 according to a third modification. In the third modification, a plurality of openings 1400 extend in a semicircular arc shape with the axis O as the center. Figure 16 The rectifying plate 300 is used for the first rectifying portion 131 , and therefore, the further the plurality of openings 1400 are from the axis O, the smaller the opening width becomes. When the rectifying plate 300 is used for the second rectifying portion 132 , the further the plurality of openings 1400 are from the axis O, the larger the opening width becomes.

[0094] [Fifth embodiment] As described above, heat exchange element 120 can also be formed into a plurality of tiny cells using a thin metal sheet heat storage substrate. In this case, the surface area of ​​heat exchange element 120 (i.e., the area in contact with air) can be increased, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. However, due to the thinness of the heat storage substrate, there is a possibility of a reduction in heat storage capacity.

[0095] Therefore, in the heat exchange device 100 of the fifth embodiment, the rectifying plates 300 included in the pair of rectifying sections 130 are made of metal, and a latent heat storage material is attached to these rectifying plates 300. This allows heat exchange to occur not only within the heat storage substrate of the heat exchange element 120 but also within the pair of rectifying sections 130, thereby increasing the overall heat storage capacity of the heat exchange device 100. Furthermore, since heat exchange can occur in either of the pair of rectifying sections 130 before air flows into the heat exchange element 120, the efficiency of sensible and latent heat exchange is improved.

[0096] Latent heat storage materials are materials that store latent heat exchanged with the outside as thermal energy during the phase change or transfer of a substance. Latent heat storage materials utilize the heat of fusion and heat of solidification at their melting points. Latent heat storage materials undergo changes between solid and liquid. Since latent heat storage materials store heat at the phase change temperature, they can store heat in the boundary area (i.e., store heat at a certain temperature). This principle is based on the following phenomenon: during phase change, as long as the two layers of solid and liquid are mixed, heat will continue to be taken away from the outside, so the temperature will not rise above the melting point. The melting point of the latent heat storage material is preferably 10 to 35°C, preferably 20 to 35°C. If the melting point is 10 If the temperature is within the range of 35°C, when the heat exchange device 100 performs heat exchange between indoor air and outdoor air as a total heat exchanger, heat can be efficiently stored using the latent heat storage material.

[0097] Specific examples of latent heat storage materials include: fatty acids such as palmitic acid and myristic acid; aromatic hydrocarbon compounds such as benzene and p-xylene; ester compounds such as isopropyl palmitate, butyl stearate, octadecyl stearate, and myristyl myristate; alcohols such as stearyl alcohol and glycerol; d-lactic acid, acetic acid, capric acid, and ethylenediamine. Aliphatic hydrocarbons include paraffins. Paraffins can be linear or branched, with linear normal alkanes being preferred. Examples of normal alkanes include n-pentadecane, n-hexadecane, n-heptadecane, n-octadecane, and n-nonadecane. Examples of hydrates include Zn(NO₃)₂·6H₂O, NaHPO₄·12H₂O, Na₂CO₃·10H₂O, Na₂SO₄·10H₂O, Li₂NO₃·3H₂O, Ca₂Cl₂·6H₂O, Ca₂CO₃·10H₂O, and FeBr₃·6H₂O. These latent heat storage components may be used alone or in combination. Chemically and physically stable and inexpensive latent heat storage components are preferably used.

[0098] For example, when using normal paraffins as a latent heat storage material, normal paraffins are hydrophobic, making it difficult to mix normal paraffins with the latent heat storage material, which is a humidity-control material that exchanges water, and then support it on the substrate of the heat exchange element 120. According to this embodiment, an aqueous humidity-control material is supported on the heat exchange element 120, while a hydrophobic latent heat storage material is supported on the rectifier plate 300, which serves as the sensible heat exchange section. Therefore, in the heat exchange device 100, the aqueous humidity-control material and the hydrophobic latent heat storage material can be independently controlled and supported, improving the production efficiency of the heat exchange device 100. The humidity-control material and the latent heat storage material can be supported on the optimal substrate, respectively, based on the difference in surface water affinity of the heat storage substrate.

[0099] When using a hydrated salt as a latent heat storage material, the latent heat storage material may be affected by the exchange of moisture with the humidity control component. According to this embodiment, the hydrated salt and the humidity control component are not mixed, and total heat exchange is performed in the rectifying plate 300 with the latent heat storage material continuously present on the heat storage substrate, thereby enabling independent control.

[0100] Alternatively, a temperature control agent containing a latent heat storage material held in a gel-like resin can be carried on the rectifier plate 300, which serves as the sensible heat exchange section. In this case, the latent heat storage material undergoes a gel-like phase change, improving its fluidity and enabling greater thermal storage capacity to be retained on the rectifier plate 300. Alternatively, a temperature control agent containing a latent heat storage material encapsulated in microcapsules can be carried on the sensible heat exchange section. In this case, the latent heat storage material undergoes a phase change within the microcapsules, improving its fluidity and enabling greater thermal storage capacity to be retained on the rectifier plate 300.

[0101] [Remark] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in the various embodiments.

[0102] The number, shape, and other characteristics of the plurality of straightening plates 300 in each straightening section 130 can be variously configured. For example, in the straightening section 130 of the first embodiment, a plurality of transverse straightening plates 321 may be arranged vertically and horizontally relative to the axis O, or a plurality of longitudinal straightening plates 322 may be arranged horizontally and horizontally relative to the axis O. In the straightening section 130 of the second modified example, the plurality of straightening plates 300 may also be composed of three or more curved plates (e.g., four curved plates arranged vertically and horizontally).

[0103] When the control device 900 displaces the plurality of straightening plates 300 provided in each straightening section 130 to an inclined position, the inclination angles of the straightening plates 300 may be different. For example, in the straightening section 130 in the exhaust mode, the inclination angles of the straightening plates 300 located toward the center of the tube 140 may be reduced, while the inclination angles of the straightening plates 300 located toward the inner circumference of the tube 140 may be increased.

Claims

1. A heat exchange device, characterized in that: include: Axial-flow fans can switch the direction of airflow to the opposite side; a heat exchange element arranged in the direction of the axial flow fan and the air flow; a pair of rectifying parts, arranged on both sides of the heat exchange element in the direction of the air flow; as well as a tube which is a cylindrical body extending in the direction of the airflow, the tube accommodating the axial flow fan, the heat exchange element and the pair of rectifying parts, The pair of rectifying parts respectively include rectifying plates that can be displaced to change directions, and rectify the airflow according to the directions of the rectifying plates.

2. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that The pair of rectifying parts respectively change directions of the rectifying plates according to switching directions of the airflow in the axial flow fan.

3. The heat exchange device according to claim 2, characterized in that The pair of rectifying portions is composed of an upstream rectifying portion located upstream of the heat exchange element in the direction of the air flow and a downstream rectifying portion located downstream of the heat exchange element. When the direction of the airflow is switched in the axial flow fan, The upstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate so that the rectifying plate diffuses a portion of the airflow radially inward or radially outward of the axis of the axial flow fan. The downstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate to reduce the area of ​​the rectifying plate facing the airflow.

4. The heat exchange device according to claim 3, characterized in that When the direction of the airflow is switched from the axial flow fan toward the heat exchange element, the upstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate so that the rectifying plate approaches the axis as it moves toward the downstream side of the airflow direction and the angle between the rectifying plate and the axis is less than 45 degrees. When the direction of the airflow is switched to a direction from the heat exchange element toward the axial fan, the upstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate in such a manner that the rectifying plate moves away from the axis as it moves toward the downstream side of the airflow direction and the angle between the rectifying plate and the axis is less than 45 degrees.

5. The heat exchange device according to claim 3, characterized in that When the direction of the airflow is switched in the axial flow fan, the downstream rectifying portion changes the direction of the rectifying plate so that the rectifying plate is parallel to the axis.

6. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that The rectifying portion includes blades and fins, wherein the blades extend radially outward from a rotation center line perpendicular to the direction of the airflow, and the fins stand upright on the surface of the blades and extend in a direction intersecting the rotation center line. The fins extend so as to approach the rotation center line as they go downstream in the direction of the airflow, or extend so as to get farther away from the rotation center line as they go downstream in the direction of the airflow.

7. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that The rectifying plate has a plurality of openings penetrating in the thickness direction. The further away the openings are from the axis of the axial flow fan, the smaller or larger the opening area.

8. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that The heat exchange element is formed by stacking metal sheets and is a ventilation component that allows the air to be processed to flow along the inner surface of the unit. A humidity-controlling material is attached to the inner surface of the unit.

9. The heat exchange device according to claim 8, characterized in that The humidity-conditioning material contains a water-absorbing resin and a humidity-conditioning component impregnated in the water-absorbing resin.

10. The heat exchange device according to claim 9, characterized in that The humidity-controlling component is a deliquescent substance.

11. The heat exchange device according to claim 9, characterized in that The humidity-controlling component comprises a carboxylate salt that forms hydrate crystals and an additive that adjusts the crystallization threshold humidity.

12. The heat exchange device according to claim 1, characterized in that The rectifying plate is made of metal and has a latent heat storage material attached thereto.

13. A full heat exchange ventilation system, characterized in that: The heat exchange device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is provided in the space portion. The heat exchange device includes a first heat exchange device and a second heat exchange device, When the first heat exchange device supplies air to the space portion, the second heat exchange device exhausts the space portion, and the air supply and exhaust are switched in conjunction with each other.

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