Vehicle air conditioning system

By controlling airflow and mode switching in the vehicle's air conditioning system, the temperature of the windows inside the cabin is kept above the dew point, thus solving the problem of window fogging and improving comfort and energy efficiency under high humidity conditions.

CN121756856APending Publication Date: 2026-03-31NGK INSULATORS LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-05-28
Publication Date
2026-03-31

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

When the humidity inside the vehicle rises sharply, the windows are prone to fogging, especially under low outside temperature conditions. Existing vehicle air conditioning systems are unable to effectively solve this problem.

Method used

By installing humidity control devices, valves, and ventilators in the air conditioning system, and using the control unit to control airflow and mode switching, the temperature of the windows inside the carriage is ensured to be higher than the dew point temperature, thereby achieving the adsorption and removal of moisture and suppressing window fogging.

Benefits of technology

Even if the humidity inside the carriage rises sharply, it can effectively suppress fogging of the windows, improving the comfort and energy efficiency inside the carriage.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An air conditioning system for a vehicle is capable of suppressing fogging of window glass in a vehicle cabin even if the humidity in the vehicle cabin rises sharply. The present invention is provided with: a humidity control device capable of adsorbing and desorbing moisture; an air-conditioning passage in which the humidity control device is disposed, through which air from the cabin or the outside of the vehicle can flow, and which has a first flow path through which the air flows into the cabin and a second flow path through which the air is discharged to the outside of the vehicle on the downstream side of the humidity control device; a valve capable of switching the flow of air between the first flow path and the second flow path; a ventilator capable of adjusting the flow rate of air flowing through the air conditioning passage; and a control unit capable of controlling the humidity control device, the valve, and the ventilator. When executing an adsorption mode in which the valve is switched so that air flows into the first flow path and moisture is adsorbed to the humidity control device, the control unit controls the ventilator so that the temperature (Ta) of the window glass in the vehicle interior is higher than the dew point temperature (Tb) in the vehicle interior and adjusts the flow rate of the air.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to air conditioning systems for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] In automobiles and other vehicles, the demand for improving the cabin environment is increasing. Specific needs include: reducing CO2 levels to combat driver drowsiness, regulating cabin humidity, and removing harmful volatile components such as odors and allergens. Ventilation is an effective solution to these needs; however, ventilation is a major cause of significant heater energy consumption 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 above problems, a vehicle air purification system (vehicle air conditioning system) is proposed. This system includes a heater component (humidifier), an inflow pipe connecting the vehicle compartment and the inlet end face of the heater component, and an outflow pipe having a first path (first flow path) connecting the outlet end face of the heater component and the vehicle compartment. The heater component has: a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and a partition wall disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and divided into multiple compartments forming a flow path extending from one end face to another; at least the partition wall is made of a material with PTC properties; a pair of electrodes consisting of a first electrode disposed on one end face and a second electrode disposed on the other end face; and a functional material layer disposed on the surface of the partition wall. The outflow pipe has a first path connecting the outlet end face of the heater component to the vehicle compartment and a second path (second flow path) connecting the outlet end face of the heater component to the outside of the vehicle, and is equipped with a switching valve capable of switching the flow of air flowing through the outflow pipe between the first path and the second path.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

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

[0007] The vehicle air conditioning system described in Patent Document 1, when operating in the adsorption mode of the humidity control device (using a layer containing functional materials to adsorb moisture, etc.), sometimes experiences a rapid increase in humidity inside the vehicle due to an increase in the number of passengers or the influence of rain or snow brought in from outside. If the outside temperature is low under such conditions, the windows inside the vehicle are prone to fogging.

[0008] The present invention was implemented to solve the problems described above, and its purpose is to provide an air conditioning system for vehicles that can suppress fogging of windows inside the vehicle even when the humidity inside the vehicle rises sharply.

[0009] The inventors of this invention have conducted in-depth research on air conditioning systems for vehicles equipped with humidity control devices. They discovered that by controlling the ventilator to keep the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment during adsorption mode, and thus adjusting the airflow, the aforementioned problems can be solved, thereby completing this invention. Specifically, this invention is illustrated below.

[0010] <1> An air conditioning system for a vehicle, comprising:

[0011] Humidity conditioning equipment, which can adsorb and remove moisture;

[0012] An air conditioning duct, the interior of which is equipped with the humidification device, is provided for air circulation from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle, and downstream of the humidification device is a first flow path for the air to flow into the vehicle compartment and a second flow path for the air to be discharged outside the vehicle.

[0013] A valve that can switch the flow of air between the first flow path and the second flow path;

[0014] A ventilation fan capable of adjusting the flow rate of air circulating in the air conditioning duct; and

[0015] The control unit is capable of controlling the humidity control equipment, the valves, and the ventilation fan.

[0016] When the control unit switches the valve to allow the air to flow into the first flow path and causes the moisture to be adsorbed by the humidity control device in an adsorption mode, it controls the ventilation fan to make the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage, thereby adjusting the air flow rate.

[0017] <2> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <1>, wherein,

[0018] The control unit also controls the duration of the adsorption mode when executing the adsorption mode.

[0019] <3> The vehicle air conditioning system according to <1> or <2>, wherein,

[0020] It also includes: a thermometer for measuring the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage, and a dew point meter for measuring the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage.

[0021] <4> The vehicle air conditioning system according to <1> or <2>, wherein,

[0022] The temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage is calculated using the following formula (1).

[0023]

Mathematical Formula 1

[0024]

[0025] In the formula, Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C], To is the temperature of the air outside the carriage [°C], and Hci is the heat transfer efficiency of the window glass on the carriage side [W / m]. 2 K], Hco is the heat transfer rate of the outer side of the window glass [W / m]. 2 K], Kg is the thermal conductivity of the window glass [W / m] 2 K).

[0026] <5> The vehicle air conditioning system according to <1> or <2>, wherein,

[0027] The temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage is calculated using the following formula (2).

[0028]

Mathematical Formula 2

[0029]

[0030] In the formula, Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C], To is the temperature of the air outside the carriage [°C], and Hci is the heat transfer efficiency of the window glass on the carriage side [W / m]. 2 K], Kg is the thermal conductivity of the window glass [W / m] 2 K).

[0031] <6> The vehicle air conditioning system according to <4> or <5>, wherein,

[0032] The Tc is measured by a thermometer installed inside the carriage.

[0033] <7> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <4> to <6>, wherein,

[0034] The To is measured by a thermometer located outside the vehicle.

[0035] <8> According to <4>, the vehicle air conditioning system, wherein,

[0036] When the vehicle speed is above 5 m / s, Hco is calculated using the following formula (3); when the vehicle speed is below 5 m / s, Hco is calculated using the following formula (4).

[0037] Hco = 7.1 × U A 0.78 ···(3)

[0038] Hco = 5.57 + 3.94U A ···(4)

[0039] In the formula, U A The vehicle speed is [m / second].

[0040] <9> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <4> to <8>, wherein,

[0041] When the air velocity on the passenger side of the window glass is 5 m / s or more, Hci is calculated using the following formula (5); when the air velocity on the passenger side of the window glass is less than 5 m / s, Hci is calculated using the following formula (6).

[0042] Hci = 7.1 × U B 0.78 ···(5)

[0043] Hci = 5.57 + 3.94U B ···(6)

[0044] In the formula, U B The air velocity [m / s] on the carriage side of the window glass.

[0045] <10> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <1>, <2> and <4> to <9>, wherein,

[0046] The dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage is calculated using the following formula (7).

[0047]

Mathematical Expression 3

[0048]

[0049] In the formula, Wa is the moisture absorption capacity of the humidification device [g / s], and Q is the flow rate of the air flowing into the humidification device [m]. 3 / second], AHi is the absolute humidity of the air flowing into the humidification device [g / m 3 Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C].

[0050] <11> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <1>, <2> and <4> to <9>, wherein,

[0051] The dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage is calculated using the following formula (8).

[0052]

Mathematical Expression 4

[0053]

[0054] In the formula, Wa is the moisture absorption capacity of the humidification device [g / s], and Q is the flow rate of the air flowing into the humidification device [m]. 3 [ / second], where Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C].

[0055] <12> The vehicle air conditioning system according to <10> or <11>, wherein,

[0056] The Wa is calculated based on a pre-determined relationship between the flow rate and the inflow time of the air flowing into the humidification device.

[0057] <13> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <10>, wherein,

[0058] The AHi is measured by a hygrometer disposed in the air conditioning channel on the upstream side of the humidification device.

[0059] <14> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <1> to <13>, wherein,

[0060] The humidity control device has an adsorption section and a heating mechanism or structure capable of heating the adsorption section. The adsorption section contains an adsorbent capable of adsorbing the moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above the specified temperature.

[0061] <15> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <14>, wherein,

[0062] The humidity control equipment includes:

[0063] A honeycomb structure having 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, the multiple compartments extending from a first end face to a second end face to form the airflow path;

[0064] An adsorption layer, disposed on the surface of the partition wall, and containing the adsorbent; and

[0065] A pair of electrodes, which are 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.

[0066] <16> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <15>, wherein,

[0067] At least the partitions of the cellular structure are made of a material with PTC properties.

[0068] <17> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <14>, wherein,

[0069] The humidity control device includes an air flow path and a heating medium flow path adjacent to the air flow path, and the adsorption section is provided in the air flow path.

[0070] <18> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <14>, wherein,

[0071] The humidity control equipment includes:

[0072] A honeycomb structure having 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, the multiple compartments extending from a first end face to a second end face to form the airflow path;

[0073] An adsorption layer, disposed on the surface of the partition wall, and containing the adsorbent; and

[0074] A heater is disposed on the upstream side of the honeycomb structure.

[0075] <19> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <14> to <18>, wherein,

[0076] In addition to adsorbing and removing moisture, the adsorbent can also adsorb and remove carbon dioxide and / or volatile components.

[0077] Invention Effects

[0078] According to the present invention, an air conditioning system for vehicles can be provided that can suppress fogging of windows inside the vehicle compartment even when the humidity inside the compartment rises sharply. Attached Figure Description

[0079] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 2This is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for controlling the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage to be higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage when the adsorption mode is executed.

[0081] Figure 3A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a typical humidification device used in a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention, parallel to the flow path direction.

[0082] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A schematic diagram of the cross-section of line a-a' in a humidity control device.

[0083] Symbol Explanation

[0084] 10…humidification equipment, 11…honeycomb structure, 12…outer peripheral wall, 13a…first end face, 13b…second end face, 14…compartment, 15…partition wall, 16…adsorption layer, 17a, 17b…a pair of electrodes, 18…terminal, 20…air conditioning channel, 20a…first flow path, 20b…second flow path, 30…valve, 40…ventilator, 50…control unit, 60…power supply. Detailed Implementation

[0085] The vehicle air conditioning system of the present invention includes: a humidification device capable of adsorbing and removing moisture; an air conditioning passage, the humidification device being disposed inside the air conditioning passage for airflow from the passenger compartment or outside the vehicle, and having a first flow path for air to flow into the passenger compartment and a second flow path for air to flow out of the vehicle on the downstream side of the humidification device; a valve capable of switching the airflow between the first and second flow paths; a fan capable of adjusting the airflow rate flowing through the air conditioning passage; and a control unit capable of controlling the humidification device, the valve, and the fan. When the control unit executes an adsorption mode in which the valve is switched to allow airflow to the first flow path to adsorb moisture into the humidification device, it controls the fan to ensure that the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment is higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment, thereby adjusting the airflow rate. With this configuration, even if the humidity inside the passenger compartment rises sharply, the amount of moisture adsorbed by the humidification device can be increased by adjusting the airflow rate. Therefore, even if the humidity inside the carriage rises sharply, it can still prevent the windows from fogging up.

[0086] 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.

[0087] It should be noted that in this specification, the terms "upstream side" and "downstream side" refer to the airflow in the vehicle's air conditioning system.

[0088] The vehicle air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present invention is preferably applicable to various vehicles. 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 air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present invention is particularly preferred for vehicles without an internal combustion engine, such as electric vehicles and electric vehicles.

[0089] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle air conditioning system according to the embodiments of the present invention includes: a humidification device 10, an air conditioning channel 20, a valve 30, a fan 40, and a control unit 50. Furthermore, the vehicle air conditioning system may further include a power supply 60.

[0091] The humidity control device 10 is capable of adsorbing and removing moisture.

[0092] The air conditioning duct 20 is equipped with a humidification device 10, which allows air to circulate from the car or outside the car. Downstream of the humidification device 10, there is a first flow path 20a that allows air to flow into the car and a second flow path 20b that allows air to be discharged outside the car.

[0093] Valve 30 can switch the flow of air between the first flow path 20a and the second flow path 20b.

[0094] The ventilation fan 40 can adjust the flow rate of air flowing through the air conditioning channel 20.

[0095] The control unit 50 is capable of controlling the humidity control equipment 10, the valve 30, and the fan 40.

[0096] In a vehicle air conditioning system with the structure described above, when air from the passenger compartment or outside the vehicle circulates within the air conditioning duct 20, moisture (water vapor) can be adsorbed or removed from the humidification device 10. When moisture is adsorbed in the humidification device 10, an adsorption mode is established where the humidification device 10 is not heated. In adsorption mode, air whose moisture has been reduced or removed in the humidification device 10 is allowed to flow into the passenger compartment by switching valve 30 to direct it to the first flow path 20a. On the other hand, when moisture is removed from the humidification device 10, a regeneration mode is established where the humidification device 10 is heated. In regeneration mode, air containing moisture removed from the humidification device 10 is discharged outside the vehicle by switching valve 30 to direct it to the second flow path 20b.

[0097] The adsorption mode and regeneration mode are executed repeatedly. At this time, by fully removing the moisture adsorbed by the humidification device 10 during the regeneration mode, the amount of moisture adsorbed by the humidification device 10 during the adsorption mode can be increased. As a method to fully remove the moisture adsorbed by the humidification device 10 during the regeneration mode, examples include increasing the airflow rate into the humidification device 10 and extending the regeneration mode time.

[0098] When the control unit 50 switches the valve 30 to allow airflow to the first flow path 20a and causes moisture to be adsorbed onto the humidity control device 10, it controls the ventilation fan 40 to adjust the airflow by ensuring that the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage is higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage. By adjusting the airflow in this way, fogging of the window glass inside the carriage can be suppressed even if the humidity inside the carriage rises sharply. Specifically, when the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage is close to the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage, the rotation speed of the ventilation fan 40 is increased, thereby increasing the airflow. The dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage is more affected by changes in airflow than the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage; therefore, by increasing the airflow, the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage is significantly reduced compared to the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage. Specifically, by increasing the airflow, the humidity control device 10 absorbs more moisture, reducing the proportion of moisture in the air flowing into the passenger compartment. Therefore, it can maintain the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment lower than the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment.

[0099] The control unit 50 can further control the duration of the adsorption mode during its execution. Sometimes, the humidity inside the passenger compartment may decrease over time due to factors such as the number of passengers or the amount of rain or snow brought in from outside. Therefore, by controlling the duration of the adsorption mode, the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment can be maintained above the dew point temperature Tb. Thus, fogging of the window glass inside the passenger compartment can be stably suppressed based on factors such as the number of passengers and the amount of rain or snow brought in from outside.

[0100] The vehicle air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present invention may further include a thermometer for measuring the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment, and a dew point meter for measuring the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment. With this configuration, the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment and the dew point temperature Tb can be measured. The thermometer and the dew point meter are connected to the control unit 50.

[0101] There are no special restrictions on whether it is a thermometer or a dew point meter; commercially available thermometers and dew point meters can be used.

[0102] The vehicle air conditioning system according to the embodiments of the present invention can also calculate the temperature Ta and dew point temperature Tb of the window glass inside the vehicle compartment using a prescribed formula, thereby replacing the need for a thermometer and dew point meter to measure the temperature Ta and dew point temperature Tb of the window glass inside the vehicle compartment. The method for calculating the temperature Ta and dew point temperature Tb of the window glass inside the vehicle compartment will be described below.

[0103] The temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage can be calculated using the following formula (1).

[0104]

Mathematical Expression 5

[0105]

[0106] In equation (1), Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C], To is the temperature of the air outside the carriage [°C], and Hci is the heat transfer efficiency of the window glass on the carriage side [W / m]. 2 K], Hco is the heat transfer efficiency of the window glass on the outside of the vehicle [W / m]. 2 K], Kg is the thermal conductivity of the window glass [W / m] 2 K).

[0107] The Hco in equation (1) can be a fixed value obtained by assuming it is the average vehicle speed during the high-speed phase of the WLTC (Worldwide-harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle) test mode. Specifically, Hco can be 60.9 [W / m] 2The temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage is calculated using K as the reference. In this case, the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage is calculated using the following formula (2).

[0108]

Mathematical Expression 6

[0109]

[0110] In equation (2), Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C], To is the temperature of the air outside the carriage [°C], and Hci is the heat transfer efficiency of the window glass on the carriage side [W / m]. 2 K], Kg is the thermal conductivity of the window glass [W / m] 2 K).

[0111] In equations (1) and (2), Tc can be measured by a thermometer installed inside the vehicle compartment. This thermometer is usually installed inside the vehicle compartment, so it is not necessary to install a separate thermometer. That is, the temperature of the air inside the vehicle compartment measured by this usually installed thermometer can be used as Tc.

[0112] In equations (1) and (2), To can be measured by a thermometer installed outside the vehicle. This thermometer is usually installed outside the vehicle, so it is not necessary to install a separate thermometer. That is, the temperature of the air outside the vehicle measured by this usually installed thermometer can be used as To.

[0113] In equation (1), Hco can be calculated using equation (3) when the vehicle speed is above 5 m / s, and Hco can be calculated using equation (4) when the vehicle speed is below 5 m / s.

[0114] Hco = 7.1 × U A 0.78 ···(3)

[0115] Hco = 5.57 + 3.94U A ···(4)

[0116] In equations (3) and (4), U A Vehicle speed [m / s]. Vehicle speed can be the value typically set on the vehicle's speedometer.

[0117] In equations (1) and (2), when the air velocity on the car side of the window glass is 5 m / s or more, Hci can be calculated using equation (5). When the air velocity on the car side of the window glass is less than 5 m / s, Hci can be calculated using equation (6).

[0118] Hci = 7.1 × U B 0.78 ···(5)

[0119] Hci = 5.57 + 3.94U B ···(6)

[0120] In the formula, U B The air velocity on the passenger side of the window is [m / s]. The air velocity on the passenger side of the window can be expressed as the airflow rate [m] blowing onto the passenger side of the window. 3 / second] divided by the cross-sectional area of ​​the side air vent of the window glass in the carriage [m 2 To calculate.

[0121] The dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage can be calculated using the following formula (7).

[0122]

Mathematical Expression 7

[0123]

[0124] In equation (7), Wa is the moisture absorption capacity of the humidification device 10 [g / s], and Q is the air flow rate into the humidification device 10 [m]. 3 / second], AHi is the absolute humidity of the air flowing into the humidification device 10 [g / m²]. 3 Tc represents the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C].

[0125] In equation (7), AHi can be a fixed value pre-assumed under the most stringent conditions that make window fogging likely to occur. Specifically, window fogging is likely to occur under high humidity conditions inside the vehicle compartment; therefore, the absolute humidity of the air flowing into the humidification device 10 can be set to 10 g / m³. 3 The dew point temperature Tb inside the car is calculated using the following formula (8) as a reference.

[0126]

Mathematical Expression 8

[0127]

[0128] In equation (8), Wa is the moisture absorption capacity of the humidification device 10 [g / s], and Q is the air flow rate into the humidification device 10 [m]. 3 [ / second], where Tc is the temperature of the air inside the carriage [°C].

[0129] In equations (7) and (8), regarding Wa, hygrometers can be installed upstream and downstream of the humidification device 10 to measure the humidity and calculate it based on the humidity difference. However, it is preferable to calculate it based on a pre-determined relationship between the flow rate and inflow time of the air flowing into the humidification device 10. That is, it is preferable to pre-determine the relationship between the flow rate and inflow time of the air flowing into the humidification device 10 during adsorption mode and Wa, and calculate Wa based on this relationship and the flow rate and inflow time of the air flowing into the humidification device 10. By calculating Wa in this way, hygrometers do not need to be installed upstream and downstream of the humidification device 10, thus simplifying the vehicle air conditioning system.

[0130] In equation (7), AHi can be measured by a hygrometer installed in the air conditioning channel 20 on the upstream side of the humidification device 10. The hygrometer is connected to the control unit 50.

[0131] As a hygrometer, there are no special restrictions; commercially available hygrometers can be used.

[0132] In equations (7) and (8), Tc can be measured by a thermometer installed inside the vehicle compartment. This thermometer is usually installed inside the vehicle compartment, so it is not necessary to install a separate thermometer. That is, the temperature of the air inside the vehicle compartment measured by this usually installed thermometer can be used as Tc.

[0133] Here, a diagram illustrating an example of a method for controlling the temperature of the window glass inside the passenger compartment to be higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment during adsorption mode is shown. Figure 2 .

[0134] like Figure 2 As shown, when the airflow rate Q flowing into the humidification device 10 is kept constant and the adsorption mode is executed, the dehumidification of the humidification device 10 becomes insufficient due to the increase in the number of passengers and the influence of rain or snow brought in from outside the vehicle. The humidity inside the passenger compartment increases, and the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment approaches the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment (times 0 to P1). Then, when the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment exceeds the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment, fogging of the window glass easily occurs. Therefore, by increasing the airflow rate Q flowing into the humidification device 10, the moisture absorption capacity Wa of the humidification device 10 is increased. As a result, the moisture content of the air inside the passenger compartment decreases, and thus, the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment can be reduced (after time P1). At this time, the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the passenger compartment also decreases slightly, however, the reduction rate is less than the reduction rate of the dew point temperature Tb inside the passenger compartment. Therefore, by controlling the flow rate Q of the air flowing into the humidification device 10 as described above, it is possible to maintain the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage lower than the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage.

[0135] As described above, the airflow rate Q flowing into the humidification device 10 affects the window temperature Ta and the dew point temperature Tb inside the vehicle compartment when the adsorption mode is executed. Specifically, if the airflow rate Q flowing into the humidification device 10 increases, the window temperature Ta and the dew point temperature Tb inside the vehicle compartment decrease when the adsorption mode is executed. In particular, if the airflow rate Q flowing into the humidification device 10 increases, the dew point temperature Tb inside the vehicle compartment decreases significantly compared to the window temperature Ta. Therefore, by controlling the airflow rate Q flowing into the humidification device 10, it is possible to control the window temperature Ta inside the vehicle compartment to be higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the vehicle compartment.

[0136] The airflow rate Q into the humidification device 10 can be adjusted according to the type of humidification device 10 used, and is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.0033 m. 3 [ / second] or higher, more preferably 0.0050 [m] 3 / sec] or more.

[0137] The following is a detailed explanation of the components of a vehicle's air conditioning system.

[0138] (1. Humidity control equipment 10)

[0139] The humidity control device 10 is only required to be capable of adsorbing and removing moisture; there are no particular limitations. Preferably, it has an adsorption section and a heating mechanism or structure capable of heating the adsorption section. The adsorption section contains an adsorbent that can adsorb moisture below a specified temperature and remove the adsorbed moisture above a specified temperature. If the humidity control device 10 has such characteristics, the adsorption and removal of moisture can be easily achieved.

[0140] Furthermore, the number of humidification devices 10 arranged in the air conditioning channel 20 can be one or more. When multiple humidification devices 10 are provided, they can be arranged in parallel or in series with respect to the airflow within the air conditioning channel 20.

[0141] Figure 3A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a typical humidification device used in a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention, parallel to the flow path direction. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A schematic diagram of the cross-section of line a-a' in a humidity control device.

[0142] Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe humidity control device 10 shown includes: a honeycomb structure 11 having an outer peripheral wall 12 and a partition wall 15 disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 12 and dividing it into a plurality of compartments 14, which extend from a first end face 13a to a second end face 13b to form an airflow path; an adsorption layer 16 disposed on the surface of the partition wall 15 and containing an adsorbent; and a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b disposed on the first end face 13a and the second end face 13b of the honeycomb structure 11. Although not shown, the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b may also be disposed on the outer peripheral wall 12 of the honeycomb structure 11, which is parallel to the direction in which the compartments 14 extend. Furthermore, terminals 18 can be connected to the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b.

[0143] (1-1. Honeycomb structure 11)

[0144] The shape of the honeycomb structure 11 is not particularly limited. For example, the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 11 orthogonal to the flow path direction (the direction in which the compartment 14 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 13a and second end face 13b) have the same shape as the cross-section. In addition, when the cross-section and end faces are polygonal, the corners can be chamfered.

[0145] The shape of the compartment 14 is not particularly limited. In the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 11 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 providing a compartment 14 with such a shape, the pressure loss during airflow can be reduced.

[0146] The honeycomb structure 11 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 compartment 14, which is very important for ensuring airflow (velocity).

[0147] 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 a solvent 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 12 and the partition wall 15. In addition to its function of bonding the cell units together, the bonding material can also be used as a coating material for the outer perimeter of the bonded cell units.

[0148] From the viewpoints of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 11, reducing the pressure loss when air passes through the compartment 14, ensuring the adsorbent loading, and ensuring the contact area with the air flowing in the compartment 14, it is preferable to combine the thickness of the partition wall 15, the compartment density, and the compartment spacing (or the opening ratio of the compartment 14) well.

[0149] In this specification, the compartment density is the number of compartments divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 13a or second end face 13b) of the honeycomb structure 11 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 15 and the compartments 14 excluding the peripheral wall 12).

[0150] 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 13a or second end face 13b) of the honeycomb structure 11 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 15 and compartments 14 excluding the peripheral wall 12) 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.

[0151] In this specification, the aperture ratio of compartment 14 is: the total area of ​​compartments 14 divided by partition walls 15 in a cross-section of the honeycomb structure 11 orthogonal to the flow path direction, divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 13a or second end face 13b) (the total area of ​​partition walls 15 and compartments 14 excluding peripheral wall 12). It should be noted that the pair of electrodes 17a, 17b and the adsorption layer 16 are not considered when calculating the aperture ratio of compartment 14.

[0152] In an advantageous embodiment from the viewpoint of carrying a sufficient amount of functional material, the thickness of the partition wall 15 is 0.300 mm or less, and the compartment density is 100 compartments / cm³. 2 The following conditions apply, and the spacing between compartments is 1.0 mm or more. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 15 is 0.200 mm or less, and the compartment density is 70 compartments / cm². 2 The compartment spacing is 1.2 mm or more. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 15 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.

[0153] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 11 and keeping the resistance at a low level, the lower limit of the thickness of the partition 15 is preferably 0.010 mm or more, more preferably 0.020 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.030 mm or more.

[0154] From the perspectives of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 11, maintaining a low resistance level, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and detachment, 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.

[0155] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 11, 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.

[0156] In an advantageous embodiment from the viewpoint of simultaneously reducing pressure loss and maintaining strength, the thickness of the partition wall 15 is 0.08–0.36 mm, and the compartment density is 2.54–140 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 14 is 0.70 or higher. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 15 is 0.09 to 0.35 mm, and the compartment density is 15 to 100 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 14 is 0.80 or higher. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 15 is 0.14 to 0.30 mm, and the compartment density is 20 to 90 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 14 is above 0.85.

[0157] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 11, the upper limit of the opening ratio of the compartment 14 is preferably 0.94 or less, more preferably 0.92 or less, and even more preferably 0.90 or less.

[0158] The thickness of the outer peripheral wall 12 is not particularly limited, but is preferably determined based on the following viewpoints. First, from the viewpoint of reinforcing the honeycomb structure 11, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 12 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 12 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.

[0159] In this specification, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 12 refers to the length in the normal direction of the side surface of the honeycomb structure 11, from the boundary between the outer peripheral wall 12 and the outermost compartment 14 or partition 15 to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 11 in a cross section orthogonal to the flow path direction.

[0160] The length of the honeycomb structure 11 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 10, without any particular limitation. For example, in the case of a compact humidity control device 10 that ensures the specified functions, the length in the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 11 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.

[0161] The partitions 15 constituting the honeycomb structure 11 are made of a material capable of heating by electrical current, and preferably of a material with PTC properties. If necessary, the outer peripheral wall 12 can also be made of a material with PTC properties, similar to the partitions 15. With this configuration, the adsorption layer 16 can be directly heated by heat transfer from the heated partitions 15 (and, if necessary, the outer peripheral wall 12). Furthermore, materials with PTC properties have 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 15 (and, if necessary, the outer peripheral wall 12) reach high temperatures, the current flowing through them is limited, thus suppressing overheating of the honeycomb structure 11. Therefore, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 16 caused by overheating can also be suppressed.

[0162] From the viewpoint of achieving moderate heat generation, the lower limit of the volume resistivity of the material with PTC characteristics 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. From the viewpoint of generating heat with a low driving voltage, the upper limit of the volume resistivity of the material with PTC characteristics at 25°C is preferably 30 Ω·cm or less, more preferably 18 Ω·cm or less, and even more preferably 16 Ω·cm or less. In this specification, the volume resistivity of the material with PTC characteristics at 25°C is measured according to JIS K6271:2008.

[0163] From the viewpoint of being able to generate heat through electricity and possessing PTC characteristics, the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15 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 whose main component is barium titanate (BaTiO3) crystalline particles, 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] The content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, in the ceramic is sufficient to constitute a major component; there is no particular limitation, but it is preferably 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, but is typically 99% by mass, preferably 98% by mass.

[0167] From the viewpoint of reducing environmental impact, the materials used for the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15 are preferably substantially lead-free (Pb). Specifically, the Pb content in the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15 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, air heated in contact with, for example, the heated partition wall 15, can be safely blown towards living organisms such as humans. It should be noted that the Pb content in the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15, 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).

[0168] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15 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 10 reaches a high temperature, thus effectively suppressing excessive heating of the humidity control device 10. Therefore, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 16 caused by excessive heating can be suppressed.

[0169] From the viewpoint of efficiently heating the adsorption layer 16, the lower limit of the Curie point of the material constituting the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15 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.

[0170] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 12 and the partition wall 15 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.

[0171] 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 Espec Co., Ltd.). Using a DC resistance meter (e.g., multimeter 3478A, HEWLETT PACKARD Co., Ltd., Japan), the change in the sample's resistance 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.

[0172] (1-2. Adsorption layer 16)

[0173] The adsorption layer 16 is a layer containing adsorbent.

[0174] The adsorption layer 16 can be disposed on the surface of the partition wall 15 (in the case of the outermost compartment 14, the partition wall 15 and the outer peripheral wall 12 that divide the outermost compartment 14). By disposing the adsorption layer 16 in this way, moisture is easily adsorbed in the adsorption mode, and the adsorption layer 16 is easily heated in the regeneration mode, thus making it easy for moisture to detach from the adsorption layer 16.

[0175] The adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 16 is capable of adsorbing and removing moisture. Furthermore, the preferred adsorbent, in addition to adsorbing and removing moisture, is also capable of adsorbing and removing carbon dioxide and / or volatile components. By using such an adsorbent, not only is the moisture-absorbing effect provided by the humidity control device 10 achieved, but a purification effect is also obtained.

[0176] The adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 16 preferably has the function of adsorbing water at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C and removing water at temperatures exceeding 60°C.

[0177] There are no particular limitations on adsorbents, but examples include: aluminosilicates, silica gel, silica, graphene oxide, polymeric adsorbents, polystyrene sulfonic acid, zeolite, activated carbon, alumina, low-crystallinity clay, amorphous aluminosilicate complexes, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These materials can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0178] As aluminosilicates, the following are preferred: AFI type, CHA type or BEA type zeolites; porous clay minerals such as diaspore and fibrous aluminosilicate. In addition, amorphous aluminosilicates are preferred.

[0179] Type A silicone is preferred as the silicone material used.

[0180] Materials with polyacrylic acid-based polymer chains are preferred as polymer adsorbents. For example, sodium polyacrylate can be used as a polymer adsorbent.

[0181] 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).

[0182] 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.

[0183] The adsorption layer 16 may further contain a catalyst. By containing a catalyst, carbon dioxide and / or volatile components can be purified 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. In addition, the catalyst may be used in combination with the aforementioned functional materials.

[0184] The thickness of the adsorption layer 16 can be determined according to the size of the compartment 14 and is not particularly limited. For example, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient contact with air, the thickness of the adsorption layer 16 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 adsorption layer 16 from peeling off from the partition wall 15 or the outer peripheral wall 12, the thickness of the adsorption layer 16 is preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 380 μm or less, and even more preferably 350 μm or less.

[0185] The thickness of the adsorption layer 16 is measured according to the following steps: An arbitrary cross-section of the honeycomb structure 11 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 the like. Furthermore, this cross-section is positioned so that it passes through the centroid of a cross-section of the honeycomb structure 11 orthogonal to the flow path direction. For each adsorption layer 16 visible from the cross-sectional image, the thickness is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area by the length of the compartment 14 in the flow path direction. This calculation is performed for all adsorption layers 16 visible from the cross-sectional image, and the overall average value is taken as the thickness of the adsorption layer 16.

[0186] From the viewpoint of achieving the desired function within the humidity control device 10, the amount of the adsorption layer 16 is preferably 50 to 500 g / L relative to the volume of the honeycomb structure 11, 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 11 is a value determined based on the external dimensions of the honeycomb structure 11.

[0187] (1-3. A pair of electrodes 17a, 17b)

[0188] The positions of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b are not particularly limited and can be as follows: Figure 3A The electrodes 17a and 17b are shown to be disposed on the first end face 13a and the second end face 13b of the honeycomb structure 11. Alternatively, a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b may also be disposed on the outer peripheral wall 12 of the honeycomb structure 11, which is parallel to the direction in which the compartment 14 extends.

[0189] By applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b, the honeycomb structure 11 can be heated using Joule heating.

[0190] The electrodes 17a and 17b 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 12 and / or partition wall 15 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 electrode pair 17a and 17b can be a single-layer structure or a stacked structure of two or more layers. When the electrode pair 17a and 17b has a stacked structure of two or more layers, the materials of each layer can be the same or different types.

[0191] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can be appropriately set according to the method of forming the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b. Examples of methods for forming the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b include metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste or by fusion deposition. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can also be formed by bonding metal plates or alloy plates.

[0192] Regarding the thickness of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b, 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.

[0193] (1-4.Terminal 18)

[0194] Terminal 18 is connected to a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b, and is disposed on at least a portion of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b. The provision of terminal 18 facilitates connection to an external power source. Terminal 18 is connected to a wire connected to an external power source.

[0195] The material of terminal 18 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, it is preferred, for example, an alloy containing at least one selected from the group consisting of Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Al and Ti, and more preferably stainless steel, Fe-Ni alloy and phosphor bronze.

[0196] The size and shape of terminal 18 are not particularly limited. For example, such as Figure 3A As shown, a terminal 18 can be integrally disposed on a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b on the outer peripheral wall 12. Alternatively, the terminal 18 can be disposed on a portion of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b on the outer peripheral wall 12, or it can be configured to extend further outward than the outer edge of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b on the outer peripheral wall 12. Furthermore, the terminal 18 can be disposed on a portion of the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b on the partition wall 15, or it can be configured to seal off a portion of the compartment 14.

[0197] In addition, the thickness of terminal 18 is not particularly limited, for example, it is 0.01 to 10 mm, typically 0.05 to 5 mm.

[0198] Regarding the connection method between terminal 18 and a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b, 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.

[0199] (1-5. Manufacturing method of humidity control equipment 10)

[0200] There is no particular limitation on the manufacturing method of the humidity control device 10, and it can be carried out according to known methods. Hereinafter, the method of manufacturing the humidity control device 10 will be described illustratively.

[0201] The manufacturing method of the honeycomb structure 11 constituting the humidity control device 10 includes a molding process and a firing process.

[0202] 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%.

[0203] The powders can be dry-mixed according to the desired composition to obtain ceramic raw materials.

[0204] 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.

[0205] 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.

[0206] 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.

[0207] 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

[0208] 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.

[0209] Examples of dispersion media include water, or a mixture of water and organic solvents such as alcohols, with water being particularly preferred.

[0210] 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.

[0211] Examples of plasticizers include: polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polycarboxylic acid polymers, and alkyl phosphates.

[0212] 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.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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%.

[0215] 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, dielectric drying, reduced pressure drying, vacuum drying, and freeze drying can be used. However, a drying method combining hot air drying and microwave drying or dielectric drying is preferred in terms of achieving rapid and uniform drying of the entire molded body.

[0216] The firing process includes: holding at 1150-1250℃, then heating to a maximum temperature of 1360-1430℃ at a rate of 20-600℃ / hour, and holding for 0.5-10 hours.

[0217] By holding the honeycomb molded body at a maximum temperature of 1360–1430°C for 0.5–10 hours, a honeycomb structure 11 with BaTiO3 crystalline particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, as the main component can be obtained.

[0218] 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 11 to be densified.

[0219] 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 11. 17 O 40 Crystalline particles.

[0220] 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 value, the Ba2TiO4 crystal particles generated during the firing process can be easily and stably removed.

[0221] 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 11 with a specified composition.

[0222] 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.

[0223] Furthermore, from the perspective of controlling electrical characteristics and manufacturing costs, the atmosphere of the firing process is preferably an atmospheric atmosphere.

[0224] There are no particular restrictions on the type of furnace used in the firing or degreasing process; electric furnaces, gas furnaces, etc., can be used.

[0225] A pair of electrodes 17a and 17b are formed on the honeycomb structure 11 obtained in this way. The pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can be formed by metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can also be formed by fusion deposition. The pair of electrodes 17a and 17b can be composed of a single layer or multiple electrode layers with different compositions. Representative methods for forming the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b will be described below.

[0226] First, an electrode slurry comprising electrode material, organic binder, and dispersion medium is prepared and coated onto the first end face 13a or the second end face 13b of the honeycomb structure 11. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, 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 11 is removed by blowing and wiping. Then, by drying the slurry, a pair of electrodes 17a, 17b can be formed on the first end face 13a or the second end face 13b of the honeycomb structure 11. Drying can be performed while heating the honeycomb structure 11 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 17a, 17b.

[0227] Next, terminals 18 are positioned at designated locations on the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b, and the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b are connected to terminals 18. The method described above can be used as a method for connecting the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b to terminals 18.

[0228] It should be noted that the configuration of the terminal 18 can be performed after the adsorption layer 16 described below is formed.

[0229] Next, an adsorption layer 16 is formed on the surface of the partition wall 15, etc., of the honeycomb structure 11.

[0230] The method for forming the adsorption layer 16 is not particularly limited, and for example, it can be formed using the following steps: The honeycomb structure 11 is immersed in a slurry containing an adsorbent, a binder, and a dispersion medium for a specified time, and excess slurry on the end faces and outer periphery of the honeycomb structure 11 is removed by blowing and wiping. The binder can be an organic binder, an inorganic binder, or a combination thereof. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, 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. Afterwards, by drying the slurry, the adsorption layer 16 can be formed on the surface of the partition wall 15, etc. The honeycomb structure 11 can be dried while being heated to a temperature of approximately 120–600°C. The series of processes of impregnation, slurry removal, and drying can be performed only once or repeatedly to form an adsorption layer 16 of desired thickness on the surface of the partition wall 15, etc.

[0231] (1-6. Other humidity control equipment 10)

[0232] The humidity control device 10 may have an air flow path and a heating medium flow path adjacent to the air flow path, and an adsorption section is provided in the air flow path. As a humidity control device 10 with such a structure, an example is a device in which an adsorption layer 16 is formed on the surface of the fins of a plate-fin heat exchanger or an Aerofin heat exchanger with multiple fins provided on the tube.

[0233] In the humidity control device 10 having the structure described above, air flows between the fins, and a heating medium flows through the tubes. Since the fins are heated by the flow of the heating medium, the adsorption layer 16 provided on the surface of the fins can be heated.

[0234] The humidity control device 10 having the structure described above can be manufactured by using a commercially available plate-fin heat exchanger or an Aerofin heat exchanger and forming an adsorption layer 16 on the surface of the fins. The adsorption layer 16 can be formed using the method described above.

[0235] The humidity control device 10 may include: a honeycomb structure 11 having an outer peripheral wall 12 and partition walls 15, the partition walls 15 being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 12 and dividing it into a plurality of compartments 14, the plurality of compartments 14 extending from a first end face 13a to a second end face 13b to form an airflow path; an adsorption layer 16 containing an adsorbent disposed on the surface of the partition walls 15; and a heater disposed on the upstream side of the honeycomb structure 11. It should be noted that the structure of this humidity control device 10 is equivalent to... Figure 3A The structure that removes a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b and terminal 18 is as follows.

[0236] In the humidification device 10 having the heating structure described above, by circulating air heated by the heater through the compartments 14 of the honeycomb structure 11, the adsorption layer 16 provided on the surface of the partition wall 15 can be heated.

[0237] Regarding the humidification device 10 with the heating structure described above, the honeycomb structure 11 does not need to heat up by being energized; therefore, it can be formed from various materials such as metal and ceramic. However, the honeycomb structure 11 can also be made of a material that can heat up by being energized.

[0238] Furthermore, the humidification device 10 having the heating structure described above can be manufactured according to the methods described above or known methods.

[0239] (2. Air conditioning channel 20)

[0240] The air conditioning duct 20 is a flow path that allows air to circulate from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle. The upstream side of the air conditioning duct 20 is connected to an inlet for the vehicle compartment or external air. The air conditioning duct 20 allows air from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle to flow in, and also allows air that has passed through the humidification device 10 to flow into the vehicle compartment or be exhausted outside the vehicle. Therefore, the air conditioning duct 20 has the following structure: on the downstream side of the humidification device 10, it branches into a first flow path 20a that allows air to flow into the vehicle compartment and a second flow path 20b that allows air to be exhausted outside the vehicle.

[0241] (3. Valve 30)

[0242] Valve 30 can switch the airflow between the first flow path 20a and the second flow path 20b. Valve 30 can be installed at the branch of the first flow path 20a and the second flow path 20b within the air conditioning channel 20.

[0243] As for valve 30, it is not particularly limited to being electrically driven and having the function of switching the air flow path; solenoid valves and electric valves can be used. For example, valve 30 can be a butterfly valve equipped with an opening and closing gate supported on a rotating shaft and an actuator such as a motor that rotates the rotating shaft. The actuator can be configured to be controllable by the control unit 50. Alternatively, a rotary valve that is controlled to open and close by a baffle valve, or a slide valve that is controlled to open and close by the movement of a sliding body (valve), can also be used.

[0244] (4. Ventilation fan 40)

[0245] The ventilation fan 40 is used to draw air from the vehicle compartment or outside into the humidification device 10, and is disposed within the air conditioning duct 20. The location of the ventilation fan 40 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be located as follows: Figure 1 The image shows the upstream side of the humidity control device 10, or the downstream side of the humidity control device 10.

[0246] In addition, the fan 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 50, and its speed is adjusted according to the instructions from the control unit 50, thereby enabling control of the airflow.

[0247] (5. Power supply 60)

[0248] The power supply 60 is used to apply voltage to the humidity control device 10 (specifically, a pair of electrodes 17a and 17b). The power supply 60 is electrically connected to the control unit 50 and adjusts the voltage application state to the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b according to the instructions from the control unit 50.

[0249] As a power source, there are no special limitations; a storage battery or similar device can be used.

[0250] (6. Control Unit 50)

[0251] The control unit 50 controls the humidity control equipment 10 and the valve 30. In addition, the control unit 50 can also control the ventilation fan 40.

[0252] The control unit 50 is electrically connected to the humidification device 10 and the fan 40 via a power supply 60. By controlling the power supply 60, the control unit 50 can control the voltage applied to the pair of electrodes 17a and 17b of the humidification device 10 and adjust the heating state of the honeycomb structure 11. Furthermore, the control unit 50 can control the valve 30 to allow airflow through either the first flow path 20a or the second flow path 20b. Additionally, the control unit 50 can control the airflow rate within the air conditioning channel 20 by adjusting the rotational speed of the fan 40.

[0253] The control unit 50 is not specifically defined, but is usually an ECU (Engine (electronic) Control Unit). The ECU has: a CPU that performs various calculations and processing, a ROM that stores the programs or data required for its control, a RAM that temporarily stores the calculation results in the CPU, and input / output ports for inputting or outputting signals to or from the outside.

[0254] The control unit 50 is capable of performing: an adsorption mode that switches the valve 30 by causing air to flow into the first flow path 20a, and a regeneration mode that switches the valve 30 by heating the humidification device 10 and causing air to flow into the second flow path 20b.

[0255] In adsorption mode, moisture in the air flowing from inside or outside the vehicle is adsorbed, and the air with reduced or removed moisture returns to the vehicle through the first flow path 20a. In regeneration mode, the moisture adsorbed by the adsorption layer 16 is removed and discharged outside the vehicle through the second flow path 20b.

[0256] From the viewpoint of stably performing the aforementioned control, the humidity control device 10 is preferably located close to the passenger compartment. Therefore, from the viewpoint of preventing electric shock, the driving voltage of the humidity control device 10 is preferably 60V or less. The honeycomb structure 11 used in the humidity control device 10 has low resistance at room temperature, therefore, it is possible to heat the honeycomb structure 11 with this low driving voltage. It should be noted that the lower limit of the driving voltage is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10V or more. If the driving voltage is less than 10V, the current when heating the honeycomb structure 11 increases, therefore, it is necessary to make the wires thicker.

[0257] Example

[0258] The present invention will be further described in detail below by way of embodiments; however, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments in any way.

[0259] <Making of Humidity Control Equipment>

[0260] BaCO3 powder, TiO2 powder, and La(NH3)3·6H2O powder were prepared as ceramic raw materials. These powders were weighed according to the specified composition after firing and dry-mixed to obtain a mixed powder. Dry mixing was carried out for 30 minutes. Next, relative to 100 parts by weight of the obtained mixed powder, water, binder, plasticizer, and dispersant were added in appropriate amounts (totaling 3-30 parts by weight) to obtain a ceramic molded body with a relative density of 64.8% after extrusion molding, and the mixture was kneaded to obtain a green body. Methylcellulose was used as the binder. Polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers were used as the plasticizer and dispersant.

[0261] Next, the obtained blank is placed into an extrusion molding machine and extruded using a specified die to form a honeycomb structure of the shape given below after firing.

[0262] The shape of the cross-section and end face of the honeycomb structure orthogonal to the flow direction: quadrilateral

[0263] The cross-sectional shape of the compartment orthogonal to the flow path direction: quadrilateral

[0264] The thickness of the partition wall is 0.100mm.

[0265] Thickness of the outer peripheral wall: 0.2mm

[0266] Compartment density: 80 compartments / cm³ 2

[0267] Compartment spacing: 1.1mm

[0268] The cross-sectional area of ​​the honeycomb structure orthogonal to the direction of flow path extension: 12000 mm² 2

[0269] Length of the flow path in the honeycomb structure: 10mm

[0270] The volume resistivity of the material constituting the outer peripheral wall and partitions at 25°C is 15 Ω·cm.

[0271] Curie point of the materials constituting the outer perimeter and partition walls: 110℃

[0272] Next, the obtained honeycomb molded body was subjected to dielectric drying and hot air drying, and then degreased in a firing furnace under atmospheric atmosphere (450℃ × 4 hours). Following this, it was fired under atmospheric atmosphere to obtain the honeycomb structure. The firing process was as follows: after holding at 950℃ for 1 hour, the temperature was increased to 1200℃ and held at 1200℃ for 1 hour. Then, the temperature was increased to 1400℃ (maximum temperature) at a rate of 200℃ / hour and held at 1400℃ for 2 hours.

[0273] Next, a pair of electrodes are formed on the two end faces (first end face and second end face) of the obtained honeycomb structure. First, an electrode paste containing aluminum (electrode material), ethyl cellulose, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (organic binder) is prepared, coated onto the first end face, and then dried to form an electrode on the surface of the first end face. Then, using the same electrode paste, an electrode paste is coated onto the second end face and dried to form an electrode on the second end face.

[0274] Next, the honeycomb structure with a pair of electrodes is immersed in a slurry containing zeolite (adsorbent), organic binder and water. The slurry adhering to excess locations (such as the outer periphery) is removed by purging and wiping, and then dried at a temperature of about 550°C, thereby forming an adsorption layer with a thickness of 150 μm on the surface of the partition and the surface of the outer peripheral wall facing the compartment.

[0275] The humidity control device obtained as described above is configured within the air conditioning channel to construct... Figure 1 The air conditioning system shown.

[0276] In this air conditioning system, assuming the air temperature inside the carriage is 20°C and the air temperature outside the carriage is 0°C, the occurrence of fogging inside the carriage windows is evaluated by visual observation, as this is an environment where fogging is likely to occur inside the carriage.

[0277] First, set the air temperature Tc inside the carriage to 20°C, the air temperature To outside the carriage to 0°C, and the heat transfer rate Hci of the window glass on the carriage side to 6 W / m². 2 K], the heat transfer efficiency Hco of the car's exterior window glass is set to 43.3 [W / m]. 2 K], set the thermal conductivity Kg of the window glass to 200 [W / m] 2 K], the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage was calculated by formula (1), and the result was that the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage was 2.9 [℃].

[0278] Next, the airflow rate Q[m] into the humidification equipment is increased. 3 The temperature changes as shown in Table 1, and the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage is calculated using equation (7). At this time, regarding the moisture absorption capacity Wa of the humidification device, the relationship between the airflow rate and inflow time into the humidification device during adsorption mode and Wa is pre-calculated. Based on this relationship, Wa is calculated according to the airflow rate and inflow time into the humidification device. It should be noted that the inflow time of the air into the humidification device is set to 30 [seconds]. Furthermore, the absolute humidity AHi of the air into the humidification device is set to 7.1 [g / m³]. 3Set the air temperature Tc inside the carriage to 20°C.

[0279] The evaluation results are shown in Table 1.

[0280] It should be noted that the evaluation results for window fogging are as follows: ◎ indicates that no fogging occurred at all; ○ indicates that slight fogging occurred but did not cause any obstruction; and × indicates that a large amount of fogging occurred.

[0281] Table 1

[0282]

[0283] As shown in Table 1, controlling the airflow to ensure that the temperature Ta of the window glass inside the carriage is higher than the dew point temperature Tb inside the carriage can suppress window fogging. Specifically, by setting the airflow to 0.0033 [m 3 [ / second] or higher, which can suppress the occurrence of fogging on window glass, especially by making the airflow rate 0.0050 [m 3 With a speed of [ / second] or higher, it can stably suppress the occurrence of fogging on window glass.

[0284] The results above show that, according to the present invention, a vehicle air conditioning system can be provided that can suppress fogging of the windows inside the vehicle even when the humidity inside the vehicle rises sharply.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system for a vehicle, comprising: a humidity control device capable of adsorbing and desorbing moisture; an air conditioning passage in which the humidity control device is disposed, through which air from a vehicle cabin or outside the vehicle flows, and which has a first flow path for the air to flow into the vehicle cabin and a second flow path for the air to flow out to the outside of the vehicle on a downstream side of the humidity control device; a valve capable of switching the flow of the air between the first flow path and the second flow path; a ventilator capable of adjusting the flow rate of the air flowing through the air conditioning passage; and a control unit capable of controlling the humidity control device, the valve, and the ventilator, wherein the control unit controls the ventilator to adjust the flow rate of the air in such a manner that the temperature Ta of a window glass in the vehicle cabin is higher than the dew point temperature Tb in the vehicle cabin when the control unit executes an adsorption mode in which the control unit switches the valve in such a manner that the moisture is adsorbed to the humidity control device.

2. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the time of the adsorption mode when the control unit executes the adsorption mode.

3. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a thermometer for measuring the temperature Ta of the window glass in the vehicle cabin and a dew point meter for measuring the dew point temperature Tb in the vehicle cabin.

4. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the temperature Ta of the window glass in the vehicle cabin is calculated by the following equation (1), [Equation 1] 5. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the temperature Ta of the window glass in the vehicle cabin is calculated by the following equation (2), [Equation 2] 6. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the Tc is measured by a thermometer disposed in the vehicle cabin.

7. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the To is measured by a thermometer disposed outside the vehicle.

8. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the Hco is calculated by the following equation (3) when the vehicle speed is 5 m / sec or more and is calculated by the following equation (4) when the vehicle speed is less than 5 m / sec, 9. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the Hci is calculated by the following equation (5) when the flow rate of the air on the vehicle cabin side of the window glass is 5 m / sec or more and is calculated by the following equation (6) when the flow rate of the air on the vehicle cabin side of the window glass is less than 5 m / sec, 10. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the dew point temperature Tb in the vehicle cabin is calculated by the following equation (7), [Equation 3] 11. The air conditioning system for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein ​ wherein Tc is the temperature of the air inside the vehicle cabin [°C], To is the temperature of the air outside the vehicle [°C], Hci is the heat transfer rate of the vehicle cabin side of the window glass [W / m 2 K], Hco is the heat transfer rate of the vehicle outside side of the window glass [W / m 2 K], and Kg is the thermal conductivity of the window glass [W / m 2 K]. ​ ​ ​ wherein Tc is the temperature of the air inside the vehicle cabin [°C], To is the temperature of the air outside the vehicle [°C], Hci is the heat transfer rate of the vehicle cabin side of the window glass [W / m 2 K], and Kg is the thermal conductivity of the window glass [W / m 2 K]. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hco= 7.1 x U A 0.78 ... (3) Hco= 5.57 + 3.94U A ... (4) In the formula, U A is the vehicle speed [m / s]. ​ ​ Hci = 7.1 x U B 0.78 ... (5) Hci = 5.57 + 3.94U B ... (6) In the formula, U B is the flow rate of the air on the passenger compartment side of the window glass [m / s]. ​ ​ ​ In the formula, Wa is a moisture absorption amount [g / sec] of the humidity control device, Q is a flow rate [m 3 / sec] of the air flowing into the humidity control device, AHi is an absolute humidity [g / m 3 ] of the air flowing into the humidity control device, and Tc is a temperature [°C] of the air in the vehicle cabin. ​ The dew point temperature Tb in the vehicle cabin is calculated by the following equation (8), [Mathematical expression 4] In the formula, Wa is the moisture absorption amount [g / sec] of the humidity control device, Q is the flow rate [m 3 / second] of the air flowing into the humidity control device, and Tc is the temperature [°C] of the air in the vehicle cabin.

12. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 10 or 11, wherein The Wa is calculated based on a relationship previously found between the flow rate of the air flowing into the humidity control device and the inflow time.

13. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 10, wherein The AHi is measured by a hygrometer arranged in the air conditioning passage on the upstream side of the humidity control device.

14. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 10 and 11, wherein The humidity control device has an adsorption section containing an adsorbent that can adsorb the moisture below a prescribed temperature and desorb the adsorbed moisture when the temperature exceeds the prescribed temperature, and a heating mechanism or structure capable of heating the adsorption section.

15. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 14, wherein The humidity control device includes: a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and a partition wall arranged on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and dividing a plurality of cells that are flow paths of the air extending from a first end surface to a second end surface; an adsorption layer provided on the surface of the partition wall and containing the adsorbent; and a pair of electrodes provided on the first end surface and the second end surface of the honeycomb structure or the outer peripheral wall of the honeycomb structure parallel to the direction in which the cells extend.

16. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 15, wherein At least the partition wall of the honeycomb structure is composed of a material having a PTC characteristic.

17. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 14, wherein The humidity control device includes a flow path of the air in which the adsorption section is provided and a flow path of a heating medium adjacent to the flow path of the air.

18. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 14, wherein The humidity control device includes: a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and a partition wall arranged on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and dividing a plurality of cells that are flow paths of the air extending from a first end surface to a second end surface; an adsorption layer provided on the surface of the partition wall and containing the adsorbent; and a heater provided on the upstream side of the honeycomb structure.

19. The air conditioning system for vehicle according to claim 14, wherein The adsorbent can adsorb and desorb carbon dioxide and / or volatile components in addition to the adsorption and desorption of the moisture.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Heater element and cabin-cleaning system

    WO2023074202A1