Humidifying system for vehicle

Abstract

A humidity control system for a vehicle is provided with: an air conditioning duct through which air from a cabin or outside of the vehicle can flow; a ventilator disposed in the air conditioning passage and capable of adjusting the flow rate of air flowing through the air conditioning passage; and a humidity control device having a honeycomb structure and a moisture absorption layer and disposed in the air conditioning passage on the downstream side of the ventilator, the honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and defining a plurality of cells, the plurality of cells extending from the first end surface to the second end surface to form air flow paths, and the moisture absorption layer being disposed in the air conditioning passage on the downstream side of the ventilator. The moisture-absorbing layer is provided on the surface of the partition wall. The air-conditioning duct is branched into a first flow path through which air flows into the cabin and a second flow path through which air flows out of the vehicle on the downstream side of the humidity-conditioning device. A first valve capable of adjusting the inflow amount of air is disposed in the first flow path. A second valve capable of adjusting the inflow amount of air is disposed in the second flow path. And a control unit for controlling the ventilator, the first valve, and the second valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a humidity control system for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] In automobiles and other vehicles, the demand for improving the cabin environment is increasing. Specific examples include humidity control within the cabin. While ventilation is an effective solution, it is a major cause of significant energy loss from heaters in winter, leading to reduced energy efficiency. In particular, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) suffer from a substantial reduction in driving range due to energy loss.

[0003] As a solution to the aforementioned problems, Patent Document 1 proposes a vehicle cabin purification system (vehicle humidity control system), comprising: a heater component (humidification device) having a honeycomb structure, the honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partitions, the partitions being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and dividing it into multiple compartments, the multiple compartments extending from one end face to the other end face to form a flow path, at least the partitions being made of a material having PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) properties, and having a functional material layer (moisture-absorbing layer) on the surface of the partitions for adsorbing water vapor (moisture), etc.; an inflow pipe connecting the vehicle cabin and the inlet end face of the heater component; an outflow pipe connecting the outlet end face of the heater component and the vehicle cabin; and a fan for directing air from the vehicle cabin to the inlet end face via the inflow pipe. In this vehicle cabin purification system, by circulating air through the heater component, the functional material layer can adsorb moisture in the air, thereby achieving dehumidification. On the other hand, by heating the heater components, the moisture adsorbed on the functional material layer can be removed, thereby regenerating the functional material layer.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2023 / 074202 Summary of the Invention

[0007] In the aforementioned dehumidification and regeneration processes, the efficiency of each process can be improved by controlling the airflow rate suitable for each process. The airflow rate can be controlled by adjusting the output power of the fan; however, the adjustment of the fan's output power is limited. Therefore, it is difficult to control the airflow rate suitable for both the dehumidification and regeneration processes using a single fan.

[0008] On the other hand, although it is also considered to set up two fans corresponding to each treatment, the system is large-scale.

[0009] The present invention was implemented to solve the problems described above, and its purpose is to provide a compact vehicle dehumidification system capable of efficiently performing dehumidification and regeneration processes.

[0010] The inventors of this invention have conducted in-depth research on vehicle dehumidification systems and discovered that, by employing a specific structure, dehumidification and regeneration can be performed efficiently even using only one fan, thus enabling the completion of this invention. Specifically, this invention is illustrated below.

[0011] <1> A vehicle humidity control system, comprising:

[0012] An air conditioning duct that allows air to circulate from inside or outside the vehicle;

[0013] A ventilation fan, disposed within the air conditioning duct, capable of adjusting the flow rate of the air circulating within the air conditioning duct; and

[0014] A humidity control device having a honeycomb structure and a moisture-absorbing layer, and disposed within the air conditioning channel downstream of the ventilator, the honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls, the partition walls being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and dividing it into multiple compartments, the multiple compartments extending from a first end face to a second end face to form the airflow path, the moisture-absorbing layer being disposed on the surface of the partition walls.

[0015] The air conditioning channel branches downstream of the humidification device into a first flow path that allows air to flow into the vehicle compartment and a second flow path that allows air to flow out of the vehicle.

[0016] A first valve capable of adjusting the inflow rate of the air is configured in the first flow path.

[0017] A second valve capable of adjusting the inflow rate of the air is configured in the second flow path.

[0018] The vehicle humidity control system also includes a control unit for controlling the ventilator, the first valve, and the second valve.

[0019] <2> The vehicle humidity control system according to <1> is characterized in that,

[0020] The control unit adjusts the airflow rate within the air conditioning channel by controlling the rotational speed of the fan and the opening degrees of the first and second valves.

[0021] <3> The vehicle humidity control system according to <1> or <2> is characterized in that,

[0022] The control unit controls the airflow in the dehumidification mode of the humidification device to be greater than the airflow in the regeneration mode of the humidification device.

[0023] <4> The vehicle humidity control system according to any one of <1> to <3> is characterized in that,

[0024] The control unit closes the second valve and controls the opening of the first valve to more than 80% when the humidity conditioning device is in desiccation mode.

[0025] <5> The vehicle humidity control system according to any one of <1> to <4> is characterized in that,

[0026] The control unit closes the first valve and controls the opening of the second valve to more than 20% when the humidity conditioning equipment is in regeneration mode.

[0027] <6> The vehicle humidity control system according to any one of <1> to <5> is characterized in that,

[0028] The minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path is greater than or equal to the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path.

[0029] <7> The vehicle humidity control system according to <6> is characterized in that,

[0030] The minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path is more than 1.1 times the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path.

[0031] <8> The vehicle humidity control system according to any one of <1> to <7> is characterized in that,

[0032] The control unit enables the airflow generated by the ventilator to reach 2m³ / h. 3 Control is performed in a manner that is less than / minute.

[0033] <9> The vehicle humidity control system according to any one of <1> to <8> is characterized in that,

[0034] At least the partitions of the cellular structure are made of a material with PTC properties.

[0035] <10> The vehicle humidity control system according to any one of <1> to <9> is characterized in that,

[0036] The humidity control device further comprises: a pair of electrodes disposed on the first end face and the second end face of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer peripheral wall of the honeycomb structure parallel to the direction of extension of the compartment.

[0037] Invention Effects

[0038] According to the present invention, a compact vehicle dehumidification system capable of efficiently performing dehumidification and regeneration processes can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the vehicle humidity control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the humidity control device used in the vehicle humidity control system according to an embodiment of the present invention, parallel to the flow path direction.

[0041] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the cross-section of line a-a' in a humidity control device.

[0042] Symbol Explanation

[0043] 10…Air conditioning channel, 11…First flow path, 12…Second flow path, 20…Fan, 30…Humidity control equipment, 31…Honeycomb structure, 32…Outer peripheral wall, 33a…First end face, 33b…Second end face, 34…Compartment, 35…Partition wall, 36…Moisture-absorbing layer, 37a, 37b…Electrodes, 38…Terminals, 40…Control unit, 51…First valve, 52…Second valve. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The vehicle humidity control system of the present invention includes: an air conditioning channel for supplying air from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle; a fan disposed within the air conditioning channel for adjusting the flow rate of air flowing within the air conditioning channel; and a humidity control device having a honeycomb structure and a moisture-absorbing layer, disposed within the air conditioning channel downstream of the fan. The honeycomb structure has an outer peripheral wall and a partition wall, the partition wall being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and dividing it into multiple compartments. These multiple compartments extend from a first end face to a second end face to form air flow paths, and the moisture-absorbing layer is disposed on the surface of the partition wall. The air conditioning channel branches downstream of the humidity control device into a first flow path for air to flow into the vehicle compartment and a second flow path for air to flow out of the vehicle. A first valve for adjusting the air inflow is disposed in the first flow path. A second valve for adjusting the air inflow is disposed in the second flow path. Furthermore, the vehicle humidity control system of the present invention also includes a control unit for controlling the fan, the first valve, and the second valve. Regarding the vehicle dehumidification system of the present invention having such a configuration, by controlling the rotational speed of the fan and the opening degree of the first and second valves, the airflow rate circulating in the air conditioning channel can be adjusted. Therefore, it is possible to control the airflow rate suitable for dehumidification and the airflow rate suitable for regeneration using only one fan. Thus, the vehicle dehumidification system of the present invention is compact and capable of performing dehumidification and regeneration processes efficiently.

[0045] It should be noted that in this specification, the terms "upstream side" and "downstream side" refer to the airflow in the vehicle's humidification system.

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and it should be understood that solutions obtained by appropriate modifications and improvements to the following embodiments based on ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0047] The vehicle humidity control system according to embodiments of the present invention can be well utilized in various vehicles, such as automobiles. There is no particular limitation on the type of vehicle; examples include automobiles and electric vehicles. Examples of automobiles include gasoline vehicles, diesel vehicles, gas-fueled vehicles using CNG (compressed natural gas) or LNG (liquefied natural gas), fuel cell vehicles, electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The vehicle humidity control system according to embodiments of the present invention is particularly preferred for vehicles without internal combustion engines, such as electric vehicles and electric vehicles.

[0048] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the vehicle humidity control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2AThis is a schematic cross-sectional view of the humidity control device used in the vehicle humidity control system according to an embodiment of the present invention, parallel to the flow path direction. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the cross-section of line a-a' in a humidity control device.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle humidity control system according to the embodiments of the present invention includes: an air conditioning channel 10, a fan 20, a humidity control device 30, and a control unit 40.

[0050] The air conditioning duct 10 allows air to circulate from the passenger compartment or outside the vehicle. Downstream of the humidification device 30, the air conditioning duct 10 branches into a first flow path 11 that allows air to flow into the passenger compartment and a second flow path 12 that allows air to flow out of the vehicle.

[0051] A first valve 51 is provided in the first flow path 11. The first valve 51 is a valve that can adjust the inflow rate of air into the first flow path 11. As the first valve 51, it is sufficient to have the above-mentioned functions, and there are no particular limitations. Known valves such as damping valves and butterfly valves can be used.

[0052] A second valve 52 is provided in the second flow path 12. The second valve 52 is a valve that can adjust the inflow rate of air into the second flow path 12. As for the second valve 52, it is sufficient to have the above-mentioned functions, and there are no particular limitations. Known valves such as damping valves and butterfly valves can be used.

[0053] The humidity control device 30 is disposed in the air conditioning duct 10 downstream of the fan 20. The number of humidity control devices 30 disposed in the air conditioning duct 10 can be one or more. When multiple humidity control devices 30 are disposed, they can be configured in parallel or in series with respect to the airflow within the air conditioning duct 10.

[0054] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the humidity control device 30 includes: a honeycomb structure 31 having an outer peripheral wall 32 and a partition wall 35, the partition wall 35 being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 32 and dividing it into a plurality of compartments 34, the plurality of compartments 34 extending from a first end face 33a to a second end face 33b to form an airflow path; and a moisture-absorbing layer 36 disposed on the surface of the partition wall 35. Additionally, a pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, and a terminal 38 connected to the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, can be disposed in the honeycomb structure 31.

[0055] The control unit 40 is capable of controlling the fan 20, the first valve 51, and the second valve 52. Additionally, the control unit 40 is also capable of controlling the humidification device 30. Specifically, the control unit 40 is electrically connected to the fan 20, the humidification device 30, and each valve, and can control these components according to instructions received from the control unit 40. In particular, the control unit 40 can adjust the airflow rate within the air conditioning passage 10 by controlling the rotational speed of the fan 20 and the opening degrees of the first valve 51 and the second valve 52.

[0056] Here, the “opening” of each valve in this specification refers to the value obtained by expressing the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow passage as a percentage when the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow passage is set to 100% when each valve is fully open.

[0057] In the vehicle dehumidification system with the structure described above, dehumidification of the air inside the vehicle compartment is achieved by reducing the moisture in the air in the dehumidification device 30 and circulating the air through the first flow path 11. The mode of the dehumidification device 30 at this time is referred to as the "moisture absorption mode".

[0058] In addition, by heating the humidity control device 30, the moisture adsorbed by the humidity control device 30 is removed, and the air containing the moisture flows into the second flow path 12 and is discharged outside the vehicle, thus regenerating the humidity control device 30. This mode of the humidity control device 30 is called the "regeneration mode".

[0059] The control unit 40 preferably controls the airflow rate of the humidifier 30 in its desiccation mode to be greater than the airflow rate in its regeneration mode. By controlling it in this way, both desiccation and regeneration processes can be performed efficiently. This is because: in the desiccation mode of the humidifier 30, a higher airflow rate increases the efficiency of moisture adsorption by the humidifier 30; conversely, in the regeneration mode of the humidifier 30, a lower airflow rate increases the efficiency of moisture removal from the humidifier 30.

[0060] The control unit 40 preferably closes the second valve 52 and controls the opening of the first valve 51 to 80% or more when the humidification device 30 is in the desiccation mode. By controlling the first valve 51 and the second valve 52 in this way, moisture is efficiently adsorbed into the moisture-absorbing layer 36 of the humidification device 30, thus enabling efficient dehumidification.

[0061] It should be noted that there is no specific limit to the upper limit of the opening degree of the first valve 51, which can be 100%.

[0062] The control unit 40 preferably closes the first valve 51 and controls the opening of the second valve 52 to 20% or more during the regeneration mode of the humidification device 30. By controlling the first valve 51 and the second valve 52 in this way, the moisture adsorbed by the moisture-absorbing layer 36 of the humidification device 30 is efficiently removed, thus enabling efficient regeneration.

[0063] It should be noted that there is no particular limitation on the upper limit of the opening of the second valve 52. From the viewpoint of reducing the flow rate of air flowing through the second flow path 12 to promote the removal of moisture, it is preferably 80% or less, more preferably 70% or less, and even more preferably 50% or less.

[0064] The minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path 11 is preferably greater than or equal to the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path 12, more preferably 1.1 times or more than the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path 12, even more preferably 2 times or more than the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path 12, and particularly preferably 4 times or more than the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path 12. By controlling the minimum cross-sectional areas of the first flow path 11 and the second flow path 12 in this way, the airflow rate flowing through the humidification device 30 in the dehumidification mode can be increased, and the airflow rate flowing through the humidification device 30 in the regeneration mode can be decreased. Therefore, dehumidification and regeneration processes can be performed efficiently.

[0065] Here, the "minimum cross-sectional area" of each flow path refers to the area of ​​the narrowest part of each flow path that is orthogonal to the direction of air flow.

[0066] The control unit 40 preferably enables the airflow generated by the fan 20 to reach 2m³ / h. 3 The airflow is controlled at a rate of less than one meter per minute. By controlling the airflow in this way, the load on the ventilator 20 can be reduced, thus achieving energy savings.

[0067] It should be noted that there is no specific lower limit to the airflow rate generated by the ventilator 20; typically it is 0.1 m³ / s. 3 / minute or more.

[0068] The following section provides further details on the components of a vehicle humidity control system.

[0069] (1. Air conditioning channel 10)

[0070] The air conditioning passage 10 is a flow path that allows air to circulate. As described above, the air conditioning passage 10 includes a first flow path 11 and a second flow path 12.

[0071] The material of the air conditioning duct 10 is not particularly limited, but from a manufacturing point of view, metal is preferred. Examples of materials for the air conditioning duct 10 include stainless steel, titanium alloy, copper alloy, aluminum alloy, and brass. Among these, stainless steel is preferred due to its high durability, reliability, and low cost.

[0072] (2. Ventilation fan 20)

[0073] The ventilator 20 is a device for circulating air from inside or outside the vehicle. There are no particular limitations on the ventilator 20, and commercially available ventilators can be used.

[0074] In addition, the fan 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 40, and the amount of air can be controlled by adjusting the speed according to the instructions from the control unit 40.

[0075] (3. Humidity control equipment 30)

[0076] (3-1. Honeycomb Structure 31)

[0077] The shape of the honeycomb structure 31 is not particularly limited. For example, the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 31 orthogonal to the flow path direction (the direction in which the compartment 34 extends) can be a polygon such as a quadrilateral (rectangle, square), pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon, a circle, or a shape with rounded arcs (oval, elliptical, oblong, rounded rectangle, etc.). It should be noted that the end faces (first end face 33a and second end face 33b) have the same shape as the cross-section. In addition, when the cross-section and end faces are polygonal, the corners can be chamfered.

[0078] The shape of the compartment 34 is not particularly limited. In the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 31 orthogonal to the flow direction, it can be a polygon, circle, or shape with arcs, such as a quadrilateral, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon. These shapes can be a single shape or a combination of two or more. Among these shapes, quadrilaterals or hexagons are preferred. By setting the compartment 34 in this shape, the pressure loss during airflow can be reduced.

[0079] The honeycomb structure 31 can be a honeycomb joint having multiple honeycomb cells and a bonding layer that interlocks the outer peripheral surfaces of the multiple honeycomb cells. By using the honeycomb joint, it is possible to suppress the generation of cracks and increase the total cross-sectional area of ​​the compartments 34, which is very important for ensuring airflow.

[0080] It should be noted that a bonding material can be used to form the bonding layer. There are no particular limitations on the bonding material; a paste-like material made by adding solvents such as water to ceramic raw materials can be used. The bonding material may contain materials with PTC properties, or it may contain the same material as the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35. In addition to its function of bonding the cellar cells together, the bonding material can also be used as a coating material for the outer periphery of the bonded cellar cells.

[0081] From the perspectives of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 31, reducing the pressure loss when air passes through the compartment 34, ensuring the load-bearing capacity of functional materials, and ensuring the contact area with the air flowing in the compartment 34, it is preferable to combine the thickness of the partition wall 35, the compartment density, and the compartment spacing (or the opening ratio of the compartment 34) well.

[0082] In this specification, the compartment density is the number of compartments divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 33a or second end face 33b) of the honeycomb structure 31 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 35 and the compartments 34 excluding the outer peripheral wall 32).

[0083] In this specification, the compartment spacing refers to the value obtained through the following calculations. First, the area of ​​one end face (first end face 33a or second end face 33b) of the honeycomb structure 31 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 35 and compartments 34 excluding the outer peripheral wall 32) is divided by the number of compartments to calculate the area of ​​each compartment. Next, the square root of the area of ​​each compartment is calculated and set as the compartment spacing.

[0084] In this specification, the aperture ratio of compartment 34 is: the total area of ​​compartments 34 divided by partition walls 35 in a cross-section of the honeycomb structure 31 orthogonal to the flow direction, divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 33a or second end face 33b) (the total area of ​​partition walls 35 and compartments 34 excluding the outer peripheral wall 32). It should be noted that the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b and the moisture-absorbing layer 36 are not considered when calculating the aperture ratio of compartment 34.

[0085] In a favorable configuration from the viewpoint of carrying a sufficient amount of functional material, the thickness of partition 35 is less than 0.300 mm, and the compartment density is 100 compartments / cm³. 2 The following conditions apply, and the compartment spacing is 1.0 mm or more. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 35 is 0.200 mm or less, and the compartment density is 70 compartments / cm². 2 The following conditions apply, and the compartment spacing is 1.2 mm or more. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 35 is 0.130 mm or less, and the compartment density is 65 compartments / cm². 2 The following applies, and the spacing between compartments is 1.3mm or more.

[0086] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 31 and keeping the resistance at a low level, the lower limit of the thickness of the partition 35 is preferably 0.010 mm or more, more preferably 0.020 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.030 mm or more.

[0087] From the perspectives of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 31, maintaining a low resistance level, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and desorption, the lower limit of the cell density is preferably 30 cells / cm². 2 The above is preferred to be 35 compartments / cm. 2 The above is further preferred to be 40 compartments / cm. 2 above.

[0088] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 31, keeping the resistance at a low level, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and detachment, the upper limit of the cell spacing is preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.8 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.6 mm or less.

[0089] In a favorable configuration from the viewpoint of simultaneously reducing pressure loss and maintaining strength, the thickness of the partition wall 35 is 0.08–0.36 mm, and the compartment density is 2.54–140 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 34 is 0.70 or higher. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of partition wall 35 is 0.09–0.35 mm, and the compartment density is 15–100 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 34 is 0.80 or higher. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 35 is 0.14 to 0.30 mm, and the compartment density is 20 to 90 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 34 is above 0.85.

[0090] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 31, the upper limit of the opening ratio of the compartment 34 is preferably 0.94 or less, more preferably 0.92 or less, and even more preferably 0.90 or less.

[0091] The thickness of the outer peripheral wall 32 is not particularly limited, but is preferably determined based on the following viewpoints. First, from the viewpoint of reinforcing the honeycomb structure 31, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 32 is preferably 0.05 mm or more, more preferably 0.06 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.08 mm or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of increasing resistance to suppress initial current and reducing pressure loss during airflow, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 32 is preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.5 mm or less, even more preferably 0.4 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.3 mm or less.

[0092] In this specification, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 32 refers to the length in the normal direction of the side surface of the honeycomb structure 31, from the boundary between the outer peripheral wall 32 and the outermost compartment 34 or partition 35 to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 31 in a cross section orthogonal to the flow path direction.

[0093] The length of the honeycomb structure 31 in the flow path direction and the cross-sectional area orthogonal to the flow path direction can be adjusted according to the required size of the humidity control device 30, without any particular limitation. For example, in the case of a compact humidity control device 30 that ensures the specified functions, the length in the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 31 can be set to 2 to 20 mm, and the cross-sectional area orthogonal to the flow path direction can be set to 10 cm². 2 That's all. It should be noted that there is no specific upper limit to the cross-sectional area orthogonal to the flow direction, for example, 300 cm². 2 the following.

[0094] The partitions 35 constituting the honeycomb structure 31 are preferably made of a material that can be heated by electricity, specifically, a material with PTC properties. If necessary, the outer peripheral wall 32 can also be made of a material with PTC properties, similar to the partitions 35. With this configuration, the moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be directly heated using heat transfer from the heated partitions 35 (and, if necessary, the outer peripheral wall 32). Furthermore, the material with PTC properties has the characteristic that when the temperature rises above the Curie point, the resistance increases sharply, making it difficult for current to flow. Therefore, when the partitions 35 (and, if necessary, the outer peripheral wall 32) reach high temperatures, the current flowing through them is limited, thus suppressing excessive heating of the honeycomb structure 31. Therefore, thermal degradation of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 caused by excessive heating can also be suppressed.

[0095] From the viewpoint of achieving adequate heat generation, the lower limit of the volume resistivity of the material with PTC properties at 25°C is preferably 0.5 Ω·cm or more, more preferably 1 Ω·cm or more, and even more preferably 5 Ω·cm or more. In this specification, the volume resistivity of the material with PTC properties at 25°C is measured according to JIS K6271:2008.

[0096] From the viewpoint of being able to generate heat through electricity and possessing PTC characteristics, the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35 are preferably made of a material with barium titanate (BaTiO3) as the main component. Furthermore, this material is more preferably a ceramic made of a material with barium titanate (BaTiO3) crystalline particles as the main component, in which a portion of Ba has been replaced by rare earth elements. It should be noted that in this specification, "main component" refers to a component that occupies more than 50% by mass in the total composition. The content of BaTiO3 crystalline particles can be determined using fluorescence X-ray analysis. Other crystalline particles can also be determined using the same method.

[0097] The composition of BaTiO3-based crystal particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, can be expressed as (Ba 1-x A x TiO3 represents the rare earth element. In the composition formula, A represents one or more rare earth elements, and 0.0001≤x≤0.010.

[0098] A can be any rare earth element, without particular limitation, but preferably selected from one or more elements in the group consisting of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, Y, and Yb, and more preferably La. From the viewpoint of suppressing excessively high resistance at room temperature, x is preferably 0.001 or more, and more preferably 0.0015 or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of suppressing excessively high resistance at room temperature due to insufficient sintering, x is preferably 0.009 or less.

[0099] The content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles, which are a portion of Ba replaced by rare earth elements, in the ceramic is sufficient to be a major component, and is not particularly limited. Preferably, it is 90% by mass or more, more preferably 92% by mass or more, and even more preferably 94% by mass or more. It should be noted that the upper limit of the content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles is not particularly limited, and is typically 99% by mass, preferably 98% by mass.

[0100] From the viewpoint of reducing environmental impact, the materials used for the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35 are preferably substantially lead-free (Pb). Specifically, the Pb content in the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35 is preferably 0.01% by mass or less, more preferably 0.001% by mass or less, and even more preferably 0% by mass. With a low Pb content, it is possible to safely blow heated air, for example, into living organisms such as humans, through contact with the heated partition wall 35. It should be noted that the Pb content in the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35, converted to PbO, is preferably less than 0.03% by mass, more preferably less than 0.01% by mass, and even more preferably 0% by mass. The lead content can be determined using ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Analysis).

[0101] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35 is preferably within the temperature range where the resistivity changes from room temperature (25°C) to more than twice the resistivity. If the Curie point is within such a temperature range, the current flowing through them is limited when the humidity control device 30 reaches a high temperature, thus effectively suppressing excessive heating of the humidity control device 30. Therefore, thermal degradation of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 caused by excessive heating can be suppressed.

[0102] From the viewpoint of efficiently heating the moisture-absorbing layer 36, the lower limit of the Curie point of the material constituting the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35 is preferably 80°C or higher, more preferably 100°C or higher, even more preferably 110°C or higher, and particularly preferably 125°C or higher. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of ensuring the safety of components placed in or near the vehicle compartment, the upper limit of the Curie point is preferably 200°C or lower, more preferably 190°C or lower, even more preferably 180°C or lower, and particularly preferably 150°C or lower.

[0103] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 32 and the partition wall 35 can be adjusted by the type and amount of displacement agent. For example, barium titanate (BaTiO3) has a Curie point of about 120°C. By replacing a portion of Ba and Ti with one or more of Sr, Sn and Zr, the Curie point can be shifted to the low-temperature side.

[0104] In this specification, the Curie point is determined using the following method. The sample is mounted in a sample holder for measurement and fitted into a measuring chamber (e.g., MINI-SUBZERO MC-810P, manufactured by Espec Co., Ltd.). Using a DC resistance meter (e.g., multimeter 3478A, manufactured by HEWLETT PACKARD Co., Ltd., Japan), the change in the resistance of the sample relative to temperature is measured as the temperature increases from 10°C. Based on the obtained resistance-temperature diagram, the temperature at which the resistance value becomes twice the resistance value at room temperature (25°C) is defined as the Curie point.

[0105] (3-2. A pair of electrodes 37a, 37b)

[0106] The positions of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b are not particularly limited, such as Figure 2A As shown, electrodes 37a and 37b can be disposed on the first end face 33a and the second end face 33b. Alternatively, a pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can also be disposed on the outer peripheral wall 32, which is parallel to the direction in which the compartment 34 extends.

[0107] By applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, the honeycomb structure 31 can be heated using Joule heating.

[0108] The electrodes 37a and 37b are not particularly limited, and for example, a metal or alloy containing at least one selected from Cu, Ag, Al, Ni, and Si can be used. Alternatively, an ohmic electrode capable of ohmic contact with the outer peripheral wall 32 and / or partition wall 35 having PTC characteristics can also be used. The ohmic electrode can be, for example, an ohmic electrode containing at least one selected from Al, Au, Ag, and In as the base metal, and at least one selected from Ni, Si, Zn, Ge, Sn, Se, and Te for n-type semiconductors as the dopant. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can be a single-layer structure or a stacked structure of two or more layers. When the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b has a stacked structure of two or more layers, the materials of each layer can be the same or different types.

[0109] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can be appropriately set according to the method of forming the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b. Examples of methods for forming the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b include metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste, or by fusion deposition. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can also be formed by bonding metal plates or alloy plates.

[0110] Regarding the thickness of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, for example, in the sintering of electrode paste, the thickness is preferably about 5 to 30 μm; in dry plating such as sputtering and evaporation, the thickness is preferably about 100 to 1000 nm; in fusion plating, the thickness is preferably about 10 to 100 μm; and in wet plating such as electrolytic deposition and chemical deposition, the thickness is preferably about 5 to 30 μm. Furthermore, in the bonding of metal plates or alloy plates, it is preferable to set their thickness to about 5 to 100 μm.

[0111] (3-3.Terminal 38)

[0112] Terminal 38 is connected to a pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, and is disposed on at least a portion of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b. The provision of terminal 38 facilitates connection to an external power source. Terminal 38 is connected to a wire connected to an external power source.

[0113] The material of terminal 38 is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, metal. As metal, elemental metals and alloys can be used. From the viewpoint of corrosion resistance, resistivity and linear expansion rate, alloys containing at least one selected from the group consisting of Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Al and Ti are preferred, and stainless steel, Fe-Ni alloy and phosphor bronze are more preferred.

[0114] The size and shape of terminal 38 are not particularly limited. For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, a terminal 38 can be integrally disposed on a pair of electrodes 37a and 37b on the outer peripheral wall 32. Alternatively, the terminal 38 can be disposed on a portion of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b on the outer peripheral wall 32, or it can be configured to extend further outward than the outer edge of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b on the outer peripheral wall 32. Furthermore, the terminal 38 can be disposed on a portion of the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b on the partition wall 35, or it can be configured to seal off a portion of the compartment 34.

[0115] In addition, the thickness of terminal 38 is not particularly limited, for example, it is 0.01 to 10 mm, typically 0.05 to 5 mm.

[0116] Regarding the connection method between terminal 38 and a pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, electrical connection is sufficient and there are no particular limitations. For example, the connection can be made by diffusion bonding, mechanical pressure mechanism, welding, etc.

[0117] (3-4. Moisture-absorbing layer 36)

[0118] The moisture-absorbing layer 36 is a layer containing moisture-absorbing material, which has the function of absorbing moisture (water vapor).

[0119] The moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be provided on the surface of the partition wall 35 (in the case of the outermost compartment 34, the partition wall 35 and the outer peripheral wall 32 that divide the outermost compartment 34). By providing the moisture-absorbing layer 36 in this way, moisture can be easily absorbed during the moisture absorption process, and the moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be easily heated during the regeneration process. Therefore, the desired function provided by the moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be regenerated.

[0120] The moisture-absorbing material contained in the moisture-absorbing layer 36 preferably has the function of adsorbing moisture at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 40°C and removing it at temperatures above 60°C.

[0121] There are no particular limitations on what constitutes a moisture-absorbing material; examples include: aluminosilicates, silica gel, silica, graphene oxide, polymeric adsorbents, polystyrene sulfonic acid, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These materials can be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0122] As aluminosilicates, porous clay minerals such as AFI-type, CHA-type, or BEA-type zeolites, diaspore, and fibrous aluminosilicates are preferred. Furthermore, amorphous aluminosilicates are preferred.

[0123] Type A silicone is preferred as the silicone material used.

[0124] Materials with polyacrylic acid polymer chains are preferred as polymer adsorbents. For example, sodium polyacrylate can be used as a polymer adsorbent.

[0125] Metal-organic structures are crystalline hybrid materials comprising metal ions and organic molecules (organic ligands). The metal ions are preferably hydrophilic metal ions (e.g., aluminum ions).

[0126] The moisture-absorbing layer 36 preferably adsorbs not only moisture but also carbon dioxide and / or volatile components. Specifically, in addition to a moisture-absorbing material capable of absorbing moisture, the moisture-absorbing layer 36 may further contain an adsorbent material capable of adsorbing carbon dioxide and / or volatile components. Furthermore, if the moisture-absorbing material can also adsorb carbon dioxide and / or volatile components, it can be made to adsorb moisture, carbon dioxide, and / or volatile components by containing only that moisture-absorbing material. By containing such an adsorbent material or using a moisture-absorbing material, not only can the air be dehumidified, but the air can also be purified.

[0127] The adsorbent material preferably has the function of adsorbing carbon dioxide and / or volatile components at temperatures ranging from -20 to 40°C and removing them at temperatures above 60°C.

[0128] Examples of adsorbent materials with this function include: zeolite, silica gel, activated carbon, alumina, silica, low-crystallinity clay, and amorphous aluminosilicate composites. The type of adsorbent material should be selected appropriately based on the type of component to be removed. One type of adsorbent material can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0129] It should be noted that the volatile components in the air inside the carriage include, for example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or odor components other than VOCs. Specific examples of volatile components include: ammonia, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, nonenal, formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, p-dichlorobenzene, ethylbenzene, styrene, chlorpyrifos, di-n-butyl phthalate, tetradecane, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, diazinon, acetaldehyde, and N-methylcarbamate-2-(1-methylpropyl)phenyl ester.

[0130] The moisture-absorbing layer 36 may contain a catalyst. By containing a catalyst, it is possible to purify carbon dioxide and / or volatile components by promoting redox reactions, etc. Examples of catalysts with such functions include metal catalysts such as Pt, Pd, and Ag, and oxide catalysts such as CeO2 and ZrO2. A single catalyst may be used, or two or more may be used in combination. Furthermore, the catalyst may be used in combination with the aforementioned functional materials.

[0131] The thickness of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be determined according to the size of the compartment 34 and is not particularly limited. For example, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient contact with air, the thickness of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 is preferably 20 μm or more, more preferably 25 μm or more, and even more preferably 30 μm or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of suppressing the moisture-absorbing layer 36 from peeling off from the partition wall 35 or the outer peripheral wall 32, the thickness of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 is preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 380 μm or less, and even more preferably 350 μm or less.

[0132] The thickness of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 is measured using the following steps: An arbitrary cross-section of the honeycomb structure 31, parallel to the flow path direction, is cut out, and a cross-sectional image at approximately 50x magnification is obtained using a scanning electron microscope or similar device. This cross-section is then positioned so that it passes through the centroid of a cross-section of the honeycomb structure 31 orthogonal to the flow path direction. For each moisture-absorbing layer 36 visible in the cross-sectional image, its thickness is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area by the length of the compartment 34 in the flow path direction. This calculation is performed for all moisture-absorbing layers 36 visible in the cross-sectional image, and the overall average value is taken as the thickness of the moisture-absorbing layer 36.

[0133] From the viewpoint of achieving the desired function within the humidity control device 30, the amount of the moisture-absorbing layer 36 is preferably 50 to 500 g / L relative to the volume of the honeycomb structure 31, more preferably 100 to 400 g / L, and even more preferably 150 to 350 g / L. It should be noted that the volume of the honeycomb structure 31 is a value determined based on the external dimensions of the honeycomb structure 31.

[0134] (3-5. Manufacturing method of humidity control equipment 30)

[0135] There is no particular limitation on the manufacturing method of the humidity control device 30, and it can be carried out according to known methods. The following is an illustrative description of the method for manufacturing the humidity control device 30.

[0136] The manufacturing method of the honeycomb structure 31 constituting the humidity control device 30 includes a molding process and a firing process.

[0137] In the molding process, a blank containing ceramic raw materials including BaCO3 powder, TiO2 powder, and rare earth nitrates or hydroxides is molded to produce a honeycomb molded body with a relative density of more than 60%.

[0138] Ceramic raw materials can be obtained by dry mixing of various powders according to the desired composition.

[0139] A green body can be obtained by adding a dispersion medium, binder, plasticizer, and dispersant to ceramic raw materials and then mixing them. The green body may contain additives such as displacement agents, metal oxides, property improvers, and conductive powders, as needed.

[0140] The amount of ingredients other than ceramic raw materials can be adjusted to achieve a relative density of 60% or more in the honeycomb molded body, without any particular limitation.

[0141] Here, the "relative density of the honeycomb molded body" in this specification refers to the ratio of the density of the honeycomb molded body to the true density of the entire ceramic raw material. Specifically, it can be calculated using the following formula.

[0142] Relative density (%) of honeycomb molded material = Density of honeycomb molded material (g / cm³) 3 True density of the ceramic raw material (g / cm³) 3 )×100

[0143] The density of the honeycomb molded body can be determined using Archimedes' method with pure water as the medium. Alternatively, the true density of the entire ceramic raw material can be calculated by dividing the total mass (g) of all raw materials by the total actual volume (cm³) of all raw materials. 3 To find the solution.

[0144] Examples of dispersion media include water, or a mixture of water and organic solvents such as alcohols, with water being particularly preferred.

[0145] Examples of adhesives include organic adhesives such as methylcellulose, hydroxypropoxycellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, and polyvinyl alcohol. The combination of methylcellulose and hydroxypropoxycellulose is particularly preferred. One type of adhesive may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination; however, it is preferable that they do not contain alkali metal elements.

[0146] Examples of plasticizers include: polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polycarboxylic acid polymers, and alkyl phosphates.

[0147] Dispersants that can be used include surfactants such as polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, ethylene glycol, dextrin, fatty acid soaps, and polyols. A single dispersant can be used, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0148] Honeycomb structures can be made by extruding preforms. During extrusion molding, a die with the desired overall shape, cell shape, cell wall thickness, cell density, etc., can be used.

[0149] The relative density of the honeycomb molded body obtained by extrusion molding is 60% or more, preferably 65% ​​or more. By controlling the relative density of the honeycomb molded body within such a range, the honeycomb molded body can be densified, thereby reducing the electrical resistance at room temperature. It should be noted that there is no particular upper limit to the relative density of the honeycomb molded body, which is typically 80%, preferably 75%.

[0150] The honeycomb molded body can be dried before the firing process. There are no particular limitations on the drying method; for example, conventionally known drying methods such as hot air drying, microwave drying, induction drying, reduced pressure drying, vacuum drying, and freeze drying can be used. However, a drying method combining hot air drying and microwave drying or induction drying is preferred in terms of achieving rapid and uniform drying of the entire molded body.

[0151] The firing process includes: holding at 1150-1250℃, then heating it to a maximum temperature of 1360-1430℃ at a heating rate of 20-600℃ / hour, and holding it for 0.5-10 hours.

[0152] By holding the honeycomb molded body at a maximum temperature of 1360–1430°C for 0.5–10 hours, a honeycomb structure 31 with BaTiO3 crystalline particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, as the main component can be obtained.

[0153] In addition, by holding the temperature at 1150–1250°C, the Ba2TiO4 crystal particles generated during the firing process can be easily removed, thus enabling the honeycomb structure 31 to be densified.

[0154] Furthermore, by setting the heating rate of the maximum temperature from 1150 to 1250°C to 1360 to 1430°C to 20 to 600°C / hour, it is possible to generate 1.0 to 10.0% by mass of Ba6Ti in the honeycomb structure 31. 17 O 40 Crystallized particles.

[0155] The holding time at 1150–1250°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.5–10 hours. By setting the holding time to this level, the Ba2TiO4 crystal particles generated during the firing process can be easily and stably removed.

[0156] The firing process preferably includes maintaining the temperature at 900–950°C for 0.5–5 hours during heating. By maintaining the temperature at 900–950°C for 0.5–5 hours, BaCO3 is efficiently decomposed, easily yielding a honeycomb structure 31 with a specified composition.

[0157] It should be noted that a degreasing process to remove the binder can be performed prior to the firing process. The atmosphere for the degreasing process is preferably atmospheric to ensure complete decomposition of the organic components.

[0158] Furthermore, from the perspective of controlling electrical characteristics and manufacturing costs, the atmosphere for the firing process is preferably an atmospheric atmosphere.

[0159] There are no particular restrictions on the type of furnace used for the firing or degreasing process; electric furnaces, gas furnaces, etc., can be used.

[0160] A pair of electrodes 37a and 37b are formed on the honeycomb structure 31 obtained in this way. The pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can be formed by metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can also be formed by fusion deposition. The pair of electrodes 37a and 37b can be composed of a single layer or multiple electrode layers with different compositions. The following describes representative methods for forming the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b.

[0161] First, an electrode slurry comprising electrode material, organic binder, and dispersion medium is prepared and coated onto the first end face 33a or the second end face 33b of the honeycomb structure 31. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate (Texanol), ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether) or a mixture thereof. Excess slurry on the outer periphery of the honeycomb structure 31 is removed by blowing and wiping. Then, by drying the slurry, a pair of electrodes 37a, 37b can be formed on the first end face 33a or the second end face 33b of the honeycomb structure 31. Drying can be performed while heating the honeycomb structure 31 to a temperature of, for example, approximately 120–600°C. The series of processes of coating, slurry removal and drying can be performed once or repeatedly to set the desired thickness of a pair of electrodes 37a, 37b.

[0162] Next, terminals 38 are positioned at predetermined locations on the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b, and the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b are connected to the terminals 38. The method described above can be used as a method for connecting the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b to the terminals 38.

[0163] It should be noted that the terminal 38 can be installed after the moisture-absorbing layer 36 described below has been formed.

[0164] Next, a moisture-absorbing layer 36 is formed on the surface of the partition 35, etc., of the honeycomb structure 31.

[0165] The method for forming the moisture-absorbing layer 36 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be formed using the following steps: The honeycomb structure 31 is immersed in a slurry containing a moisture-absorbing material, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium for a specified time, and excess slurry on the end faces and outer periphery of the honeycomb structure 31 is removed by blowing and wiping. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate (Texanol), ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether) or a mixture thereof. Afterward, by drying the slurry, the moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be formed on the surface of the partition wall 35. Drying can be performed while heating the honeycomb structure 31 to a temperature of, for example, approximately 120–600°C. The series of processes of impregnation, slurry removal and drying can be performed only once or repeatedly to create a moisture-absorbing layer 36 of the desired thickness on the surface of the partition 35, etc.

[0166] (4. Control Unit 40)

[0167] The control unit 40 is electrically connected to the fan 20, the humidity control device 30, and each valve (first valve 51 and second valve 52). Additionally, a power source (not shown) can be provided between each component and the control unit 40. There are no particular limitations on the power source; a storage battery or the like can be used.

[0168] The control unit 40 controls the power supply to regulate the voltage applied to the pair of electrodes 37a and 37b of the humidity control device 30, thereby adjusting the heating state of the honeycomb structure 31. Furthermore, the control unit 40 controls the airflow by controlling each valve. Additionally, the flow rate of air circulating in the air conditioning channel 10 can be controlled by adjusting the rotation speed of the fan 20.

[0169] The control unit 40 is not specifically defined, but is usually an ECU (Engine (electronic) Control Unit). An ECU has: a CPU that performs various arithmetic operations, a ROM that stores the programs or data required for its control, a RAM that temporarily stores the results of the CPU's operations, and input / output ports for inputting or outputting signals to or from external devices.

[0170] The control unit 40 is capable of executing dehumidification (moisture absorption) mode, regeneration mode, and air supply mode. These modes are explained below.

[0171] (Dehumidification mode)

[0172] In dehumidification mode, the control unit 40 controls the first valve 51 and the second valve 52 to allow air to flow into the first flow path 11. Specifically, the first valve 51 is opened and the second valve 52 is closed. By controlling it in this way, the air flowing through the air conditioning passage 10 can be dehumidified in the dehumidification device 30 and returned to the passenger compartment via the first flow path 11.

[0173] (Regeneration Mode)

[0174] In regeneration mode, the control unit 40 controls the first valve 51 and the second valve 52 to allow air to flow into the second flow path 12. Specifically, the first valve 51 is closed, and the second valve 52 is opened. Additionally, the control unit 40 applies voltage to the humidification device 30 to heat it. By controlling it in this way, the moisture captured by the moisture-absorbing layer 36 can be released, and the moisture-containing air is discharged outside the vehicle via the second flow path 12.

[0175] In regeneration mode, in order to promote the removal of moisture captured by the moisture-absorbing layer 36, it is preferable to heat the moisture-absorbing layer 36 to a temperature above the removal temperature, depending on the type of moisture-absorbing material. For example, it is preferable to heat the moisture-absorbing layer 36 to 70–150°C, more preferably to 80–140°C, and even more preferably to 90–130°C.

Claims

1. A vehicle humidity control system, comprising: An air conditioning duct that allows air to circulate from inside or outside the vehicle; A ventilation fan, which is configured within the air conditioning duct, is capable of adjusting the flow rate of the air circulating within the air conditioning duct; as well as A humidity control device having a honeycomb structure and a moisture-absorbing layer, and disposed within the air conditioning channel downstream of the ventilator, the honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls, the partition walls being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and dividing it into multiple compartments, the multiple compartments extending from a first end face to a second end face to form the airflow path, the moisture-absorbing layer being disposed on the surface of the partition walls. The vehicle humidity control system is characterized in that... The air conditioning channel branches downstream of the humidification device into a first flow path that allows air to flow into the vehicle compartment and a second flow path that allows air to flow out of the vehicle. A first valve capable of adjusting the inflow rate of the air is configured in the first flow path. A second valve capable of adjusting the inflow rate of the air is configured in the second flow path. The vehicle humidity control system also includes a control unit for controlling the ventilator, the first valve, and the second valve.

2. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit adjusts the airflow rate within the air conditioning channel by controlling the rotational speed of the fan and the opening degrees of the first and second valves.

3. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit controls the airflow in the dehumidification mode of the humidification device to be greater than the airflow in the regeneration mode of the humidification device.

4. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit closes the second valve in the dehumidification mode of the humidification device and controls the opening of the first valve to be above 80%.

5. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit closes the first valve and controls the opening of the second valve to be 20% or more during the regeneration mode of the humidification device.

6. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path is greater than or equal to the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path.

7. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path is more than 1.1 times the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path.

8. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit enables the airflow generated by the ventilator to reach 2m³ / h. 3 Control is performed in a manner that is less than / minute.

9. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At least the partitions of the cellular structure are made of a material with PTC properties.

10. The vehicle humidity control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The humidity control device further comprises: a pair of electrodes disposed on the first end face and the second end face of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer peripheral wall of the honeycomb structure parallel to the direction of extension of the compartment.

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