Vehicle air conditioning system and method for controlling same

Abstract

Provided is an air conditioning system for a vehicle in which the consumption of energy required for heating can be suppressed when an occupant manually selects an external air introduction mode in the vehicle during execution of a heating mode of an HVAC unit and an adsorption mode or regeneration mode of a humidity control device. An air conditioning system for a vehicle is provided with: a flow path (10) through which internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle can flow, the flow path (10) including a damper (52) capable of adjusting the ratio of the introduction amount of the internal air to the introduction amount of the external air; a humidity control device (20) that is disposed in the flow path (10) and that can execute an adsorption mode in which moisture is adsorbed and a regeneration mode in which moisture is desorbed; an HVAC unit (30) capable of executing a heating mode for heating the internal atmosphere and the external atmosphere; and a control unit (40) capable of controlling the humidity control device (20), the HVAC unit (30), and the damper (52). When the heating mode of the HVAC unit (30) and the adsorption mode or the regeneration mode of the humidity control device (20) are executed, the control unit (40) controls the damper (52) such that the proportion of the amount of introduced external air is 20-90% when an occupant manually selects an external air introduction mode in the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an air conditioning system for vehicles and its control method. 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 humidity, and removing harmful volatile components such as odors and allergens. Ventilation is an effective solution to these needs; however, it is a major cause of significant energy consumption by heaters in winter, leading to reduced energy efficiency. In particular, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) suffer from a substantial reduction in driving range due to energy loss.

[0003] As a solution to the above problems, a vehicle air purification system (vehicle air conditioning system) is proposed. This system includes: a heater component (humidification device), 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 with an outer peripheral wall and partitions. The partitions are disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall and are divided into multiple compartments extending from one end face to another. The flow path, at least the partition wall is made of a material with PTC properties; a pair of electrodes, which are composed 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 having: 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 provided with: a switching valve (e.g., Patent Document 1) capable of switching the flow of air flowing through the outflow pipe between the first path and the second path.

[0004] On the other hand, as an air conditioning system capable of performing cooling and heating of a vehicle, an air conditioning system with an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) unit utilizing a heat pump cycle has been proposed (for example, Patent Documents 2 and 3).

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2023 / 074202

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 6746742

[0009] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-097817 Summary of the Invention

[0010] In vehicle air conditioning systems equipped with humidification devices and HVAC units, the following problem exists: if the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode while the HVAC unit is in heating mode or the humidification device is in adsorption or regeneration mode, the proportion of external air intake reaches 100%, and the energy consumption required for heating increases.

[0011] The present invention was implemented to solve the problems described above, and its object is to provide a vehicle air conditioning system and control method thereof that can suppress the energy consumption required for heating when the occupants manually select the external air intake mode of the vehicle interior during the execution of the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidification device.

[0012] The inventors of this invention have conducted in-depth research on vehicle air conditioning systems equipped with humidification devices and HVAC units. As a result, they discovered that by controlling the air damper to allow 20-90% of the external air to be introduced when the HVAC unit is in heating mode and the humidification device is in adsorption or regeneration mode, and the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode, the aforementioned problems can be solved, thus completing this invention. Specifically, this invention is illustrated below.

[0013] <1> An air conditioning system for a vehicle, comprising:

[0014] The flow path allows for the circulation of internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle, and includes a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced.

[0015] A humidity control device is installed in the flow path and is capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing moisture and a regeneration mode for removing moisture.

[0016] An HVAC unit capable of performing a heating mode that heats both the internal and external atmosphere; and

[0017] The control unit is capable of controlling the humidity control equipment, the HVAC unit, and the regulating damper.

[0018] When the control unit is executing the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device, and the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 20% to 90%.

[0019] <2> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <1>, when the control unit executes the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or the regeneration mode of the humidity control device, and the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of the external air intake is 40% to 70%.

[0020] <3> According to <1> or <2>, the vehicle air conditioning system includes: a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal atmosphere to the amount of external atmosphere introduced.

[0021] <4> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <1> to <3>, wherein the humidity control device is disposed within the HVAC unit.

[0022] <5> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <1> to <3>, wherein the humidity control device is disposed upstream of the HVAC unit.

[0023] <6> The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of <1> to <5>, wherein the flow path, downstream of the humidification device, branches into: a first flow path that allows the interior air and the exterior air to flow into the vehicle interior, and a second flow path that allows the interior air and the exterior air to flow out of the vehicle interior.

[0024] The vehicle air conditioning system also includes a first valve that can switch the flow of the internal atmosphere and the external atmosphere between the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0025] <7> An air conditioning system for a vehicle according to any one of <1> to <6>, wherein the humidity control device has: an adsorption section and a heating mechanism or heating structure capable of heating the adsorption section, the adsorption section containing: an adsorbent capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above the specified temperature.

[0026] <8> According to the vehicle air conditioning system described in <7>, wherein,

[0027] The humidity control equipment includes:

[0028] 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 flow path of the internal atmosphere and the external atmosphere;

[0029] An adsorption layer, disposed on the surface of the partition wall, and containing the adsorbent; and

[0030] 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.

[0031] <9> According to <8>, the vehicle air conditioning system, wherein,

[0032] At least the partitions of the cellular structure are made of a material with PTC properties.

[0033] <10> A control method for a vehicle air conditioning system, the vehicle air conditioning system comprising:

[0034] The flow path allows for the circulation of internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle, and includes a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced.

[0035] A humidity control device is installed in the flow path and is capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing moisture and a regeneration mode for removing moisture.

[0036] An HVAC unit capable of performing a heating mode that heats both the internal and external atmosphere; and

[0037] The control unit is capable of controlling the humidity control equipment, the HVAC unit, and the regulating damper.

[0038] In the control method of the vehicle air conditioning system described above.

[0039] When the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device are executed, if the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 20% to 90%.

[0040] <11> The control method for a vehicle air conditioning system according to <10>, wherein,

[0041] When the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device are executed, if the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 40% to 70%.

[0042] Invention Effects

[0043] According to the present invention, a vehicle air conditioning system and its control method can be provided that can suppress the energy consumption required for heating when the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle interior during the execution of the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidification device. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6A 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.

[0050] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the cross-section of line a-a' in a humidity control device.

[0051] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a heat pump cycle.

[0052] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0053] 10…flow path, 11…first flow path, 12…second flow path, 13…third flow path, 14…fourth flow path, 15…channel, 20…humidification device, 21…honeycomb structure, 22…outer peripheral wall, 23a…first end face, 23b…second end face, 24…compartment, 25…partition wall, 26…adsorption layer, 27a, 27b…a pair of electrodes, 28…terminal, 30…HVAC unit, 31…evaporator, 32…condenser, 33a…defrost 33b…foot opening, 33c…face opening, 34a…defrost door, 34b…foot door, 34c…face door, 35…compressor, 36…outdoor heat exchanger, 37a, 37b…expansion valve, 38a~38d…stop valve, 39…air mixing door, 40…control unit, 50…ventilator, 51a…internal air supply port, 51b…external air supply port, 52…regulating damper, 60…first valve, 61…second valve. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The vehicle air conditioning system of the present invention includes: a flow path for circulating internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle, and including a damper for adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced; a humidification device disposed within the flow path, capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing moisture and a regeneration mode for removing moisture; an HVAC unit capable of performing a heating mode for heating internal air and external air; and a control unit capable of controlling the humidification device, the HVAC unit, and the damper. When the HVAC unit is in heating mode and the humidification device is in adsorption or regeneration mode, and the occupant has manually selected an external air introduction mode, the control unit controls the damper to introduce external air at a ratio of 20% to 90%.

[0055] Furthermore, regarding the control method for a vehicle air conditioning system of the present invention, the vehicle air conditioning system includes: a flow path that allows for the circulation of internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle, and includes a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced; a humidification device disposed within the flow path, capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing moisture and a regeneration mode for removing moisture; an HVAC unit capable of performing a heating mode for heating internal air and external air; and a control unit capable of controlling the humidification device, the HVAC unit, and the regulating damper. In the control method for the vehicle air conditioning system, when the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidification device are being executed, and the occupant manually selects the external air introduction mode inside the vehicle, the regulating damper is controlled by the control unit with the external air introduction ratio being 20% ​​to 90%.

[0056] Regarding the vehicle air conditioning system and control method of the present invention, by adopting the configuration described above, when the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle interior during the execution of the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidification device, the energy consumption required for heating can be suppressed. Specifically, there is a problem that if the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle interior during the execution of the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidification device, the proportion of external air intake reaches 100%, thus increasing the energy consumption required for heating. However, by adopting the configuration described above, this problem can be solved.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The vehicle air conditioning system according to embodiments of the present invention is applicable to various vehicles, including automobiles. The term "vehicle" is not particularly limited, and 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.

[0059] Figures 1-5 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figures 1-5 The vehicle air conditioning system shown includes: a flow path 10 for circulating interior air and exterior air; a humidifier 20 disposed within the flow path 10; an HVAC unit 30 capable of operating a heating mode that heats both interior and exterior air; and a control unit 40 for controlling the humidifier 20 and the HVAC unit 30. The flow path 10 includes a regulating damper 52 capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of interior air to exterior air introduced.

[0061] Here, Figure 1 and Figure 2 A scheme in which the humidity control device 20 is configured within the HVAC unit 30 is shown. Additionally, Figures 3-5 The diagram shows a configuration where the humidification device 20 is located outside the HVAC unit 30, that is, the humidification device 20 is located upstream of the HVAC unit 30.

[0062] Furthermore, the vehicle air conditioning system according to the embodiments of the present invention is not limited to these solutions, and the position of the humidification device 20 can be changed, etc., without affecting the effect of the present invention. Also, in this specification, the terms "upstream side" and "downstream side" are based on the direction of airflow.

[0063] In the vehicle air conditioning system with the structure described above, when the HVAC unit 30 is in heating mode and the humidification device 20 is in adsorption or regeneration mode, and the occupant has manually selected the external air intake mode, the control unit 40 controls the regulating damper 52 to allow the external air intake to be between 20% and 90%. By controlling it in this way, the energy consumption required for heating can be suppressed. From the viewpoint of consistently ensuring this effect, the proportion of external air intake is preferably between 40% and 70%.

[0064] Here, in this specification, "the proportion of external atmosphere introduced" refers to the proportion of external atmosphere in the air (external atmosphere and internal atmosphere) introduced into the flow path 10.

[0065] In this specification, the heating mode of HVAC unit 30 refers to heating the air (internal atmosphere and / or external atmosphere) through the condenser 32 of HVAC unit 30. Therefore, HVAC unit 30 includes condenser 32, which is preferably connected to a heat pump cycle. Additionally, the cooling mode of HVAC unit 30 refers to cooling the air through the evaporator 31 of HVAC unit 30. Therefore, HVAC unit 30 includes evaporator 31, which is preferably connected to a heat pump cycle.

[0066] In this specification, the adsorption mode of the humidity control device 20 refers to the adsorption of moisture from the air by circulating air (internal atmosphere and / or external atmosphere) through the humidity control device 20. Furthermore, the regeneration mode of the humidity control device 20 refers to the heating of the humidity control device 20 while simultaneously circulating air (internal atmosphere and / or external atmosphere), thereby causing the adsorbed moisture to be released.

[0067] The following is a detailed explanation of each of the above-mentioned constituent elements and other constituent elements.

[0068] (1.Flow path 10)

[0069] The flow path 10 is an area capable of allowing air (internal and / or external atmosphere) to circulate, and is constituted by the housing of the HVAC unit 30, or the channel 15 (piping), etc. For example, in Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the flow path 10 is formed by the housing of the HVAC unit 30. Additionally, in... Figures 3-5The vehicle air conditioning system shown consists of the housing of HVAC unit 30 and channel 15.

[0070] The shape and size of the flow path 10 can be adjusted appropriately according to the HVAC unit 30 and the type of channel 15 connected to it, without any particular limitation.

[0071] The flow path 10 includes a regulating damper 52 capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal and external air introduced. For example, in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the HVAC unit 30 constituting the flow path 10 includes a regulating damper 52. Additionally, in... Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the channel 15 constituting the flow path 10 includes a regulating damper 52.

[0072] The flow path 10 is preferably located downstream of the humidification device 20, and branches into a first flow path 11 that allows air (internal and external atmosphere) to flow into the vehicle, and a second flow path 12 that allows air to flow out of the vehicle. It also includes a first valve 60 capable of switching the airflow between the first flow path 11 and the second flow path 12. With this configuration, adsorption and regeneration processes of the humidification device 20 can be easily achieved.

[0073] The flow path 10 is preferably located upstream of the evaporator 31, and branches into a third flow path 13 equipped with a humidification device 20 and a fourth flow path 14 without a humidification device 20. By adopting such a configuration, even when the humidification device 20 is being regenerated, air (internal atmosphere and / or external atmosphere) can always circulate within the HVAC unit 30 to perform cooling and heating.

[0074] exist Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, a fan 50 is preferably also provided in the third flow path 13 upstream of the humidification device 20. By adopting such a configuration, air can be selectively circulated within the third flow path 13.

[0075] in addition, Figure 1 and Figure 3 The vehicle air conditioning system shown preferably also includes a fan 50 within the fourth flow path 14. By adopting this configuration, air can be selectively circulated within the fourth flow path 14. Furthermore, in Figure 5 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, by activating the fan 50 of the HVAC unit 30, air can circulate within the fourth flow path 14, or both the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14.

[0076] exist Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, a second valve 61 is preferably provided upstream of the humidification device 20, capable of switching the airflow between the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14. By providing the second valve 61, air can selectively flow through either the third flow path 13 or the fourth flow path 14. Furthermore, in this case, if... Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the ventilation fan 50 can be installed at a position upstream of the second valve 61.

[0077] (2. Humidity control equipment 20)

[0078] The humidity control device 20 is configured within the flow path 10.

[0079] As a humidity control device 20, it is not particularly limited as long as it can perform the adsorption and desorption of moisture. Preferably, it has an adsorption section and a heating mechanism or structure for heating the adsorption section. The adsorption section contains an adsorbent that adsorbs moisture below a specified temperature and desorbs the adsorbed moisture above a specified temperature. If a humidity control device 20 has such characteristics, the adsorption and desorption of moisture can be easily achieved.

[0080] Furthermore, the number of humidity control devices 20 arranged within the flow path 10 can be one or more. When multiple humidity control devices 20 are provided, they can be arranged in parallel or in series with respect to the flow of air circulating within the flow path 10.

[0081] Figure 6A 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 6B yes Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the cross-section of line a-a' in a humidity control device.

[0082] Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe humidity control device 20 shown includes: a honeycomb structure 21 having an outer peripheral wall 22 and partition walls 25, the partition walls 25 being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 22 and dividing it into a plurality of compartments 24, the plurality of compartments 24 extending from a first end face 23a to a second end face 23b to form airflow paths (internal and external atmosphere); an adsorption layer 26 disposed on the surface of the partition walls 25 and containing an adsorbent; and a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b disposed on the first end face 23a and the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. Although not shown, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b may also be disposed on the outer peripheral wall 22 of the honeycomb structure 21, which is parallel to the direction of extension of the compartments 24. In addition, terminals 28 can be connected to the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b.

[0083] Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be electrically connected to the control unit 40 via a power source (not shown). Therefore, the humidity control device 20 can adjust the voltage applied to the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b according to instructions from the control unit 40. The power source is not particularly limited and can be a battery or the like.

[0084] (2-1. Honeycomb structure 21)

[0085] The shape of the honeycomb structure 21 is not particularly limited. For example, the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 21 orthogonal to the flow path direction (the direction in which the compartment 24 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.). Furthermore, the end faces (first end face 23a and second end face 23b) have the same shape as the cross-section. Additionally, when the cross-section and end faces are polygonal, the corners can be chamfered.

[0086] The shape of the compartment 24 is not particularly limited. In the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 21 orthogonal to the flow direction, it can be a polygon, circle, or shape with arcs, such as a quadrilateral (rectangle, square), pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon. These shapes can be single or a combination of two or more. Among these shapes, quadrilaterals or hexagons are preferred. By setting the compartment 24 in this shape, the pressure loss during airflow can be reduced.

[0087] The honeycomb structure 21 can be a honeycomb joint having multiple honeycomb cells and a bonding layer that joins the outer peripheral sides of the multiple honeycomb cells to each other. By using the honeycomb joint, it is possible to suppress the generation of cracks and increase the total cross-sectional area of ​​the compartment 24, which is very important for ensuring airflow (velocity).

[0088] Alternatively, 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 a ceramic raw material can be used. The bonding material may contain a material with PTC properties, or it may contain the same material as the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25. In addition to its function of bonding the honeycomb cells together, the bonding material can also be used as a coating material for the outer periphery of the bonded honeycomb cells.

[0089] From the perspectives of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, reducing the pressure loss when air passes through the compartment 24, ensuring the adsorbent loading, and ensuring the contact area with the air flowing in the compartment 24, it is preferable to combine the thickness of the partition wall 25, the compartment density, and the compartment spacing (or the opening ratio of the compartment 24) well.

[0090] In this specification, the compartment density is the number of compartments divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 23a or second end face 23b) of the honeycomb structure 21 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 25 and the compartments 24 excluding the peripheral wall 22).

[0091] 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 23a or second end face 23b) of the honeycomb structure 21 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 25 and compartments 24 excluding the peripheral wall 22) 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.

[0092] In this specification, the aperture ratio of compartment 24 is the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​compartments 24 divided by partition walls 25 in a cross section of the honeycomb structure 21 orthogonal to the flow path direction by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 23a or second end face 23b) (the total area of ​​partition walls 25 and compartments 24 excluding peripheral wall 22). Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b and the adsorption layer 26 are not considered when calculating the aperture ratio of compartment 24.

[0093] In an advantageous embodiment from the viewpoint of carrying a sufficient amount of functional material, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.300 mm or less, and the compartment density is 100 compartments / cm³. 2 The compartment spacing is 1.0 mm or more. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.200 mm or less, and the compartment density is 70 compartments / cm². 2 The following conditions apply, and the spacing between compartments is 1.2 mm or more. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 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.

[0094] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21 and keeping the resistance at a low level, the lower limit of the thickness of the partition 25 is preferably 0.010 mm or more, more preferably 0.020 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.030 mm or more.

[0095] From the perspectives of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, 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 more preferably 35 compartments / cm. 2 The above is further preferred to be 40 compartments / cm. 2 above.

[0096] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, 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.

[0097] In an advantageous embodiment from the viewpoint of simultaneously reducing pressure loss and maintaining strength, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.08–0.36 mm, and the compartment density is 2.54–140 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 24 is 0.70 or higher. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.09 to 0.35 mm, and the compartment density is 15 to 100 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 24 is 0.80 or higher. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.14 to 0.30 mm, and the compartment density is 20 to 90 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 24 is above 0.85.

[0098] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, the upper limit of the opening ratio of the compartment 24 is preferably 0.94 or less, more preferably 0.92 or less, and even more preferably 0.90 or less.

[0099] The thickness of the outer peripheral wall 22 is not particularly limited, but is preferably determined based on the following viewpoints. First, from the viewpoint of reinforcing the honeycomb structure 21, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 22 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 22 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.

[0100] In this specification, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 22 refers to the length in the normal direction of the side surface of the honeycomb structure 21 in a cross section orthogonal to the flow path direction, from the boundary between the outer peripheral wall 22 and the outermost compartment 24 or partition 25 to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0101] The length of the honeycomb structure 21 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 20, without any particular limitation. For example, in the case of using a compact humidity control device 20 that ensures the specified functions, the length in the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 21 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. Furthermore, there is no particular upper limit to the cross-sectional area of ​​the honeycomb structure 21 that is orthogonal to the flow path direction; for example, it could be 300 cm². 2 the following.

[0102] The partitions 25 constituting the honeycomb structure 21 are made of a material that can be heated by electricity; specifically, a material with PTC properties is preferred. If necessary, the outer peripheral wall 22 can also be made of a material with PTC properties, similar to the partitions 25. With this configuration, the adsorption layer 26 can be directly heated by heat transfer from the heated partitions 25 (and, if necessary, the outer peripheral wall 22). 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 25 (and, if necessary, the outer peripheral wall 22) reach high temperatures, the current flowing through them is limited, thus suppressing overheating of the honeycomb structure 21. Therefore, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 26 caused by overheating can also be suppressed.

[0103] 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.

[0104] From the viewpoint of being able to generate heat through electricity and possessing PTC characteristics, the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 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. 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] The content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, in the ceramic is not particularly limited as long as it is an amount that constitutes a main component. Preferably, it is 90% by mass or more, more preferably 92% by mass or more, and even more preferably 94% by mass or more. Furthermore, 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.

[0108] From the viewpoint of reducing environmental impact, the materials used in the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 are preferably substantially lead-free (Pb). Specifically, the Pb content in the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 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 25, can be safely blown to living organisms such as humans. In addition, the Pb content in the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25, 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).

[0109] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 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 20 reaches a high temperature, thus effectively suppressing excessive heating of the humidity control device 20. Therefore, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 26 caused by excessive heating can be suppressed.

[0110] From the viewpoint of efficiently heating the adsorption layer 26, the lower limit of the Curie point of the material constituting the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 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.

[0111] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 can be adjusted by the type and amount of displacement agent added. For example, the Curie point of barium titanate (BaTiO3) is 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] (2-2. Adsorption layer 26)

[0114] Adsorption layer 26 is a layer containing adsorbent.

[0115] The adsorption layer 26 can be disposed on the surface of the partition wall 25 (in the case of the outermost compartment 24, the partition wall 25 and the outer peripheral wall 22 that divide the outermost compartment 24). By disposing the adsorption layer 26 in this way, moisture is easily adsorbed in the adsorption mode, and the adsorption layer 26 is easily heated in the regeneration mode, thus making it easy for moisture to detach from the adsorption layer 26.

[0116] The adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 26 is capable of adsorbing and removing moisture. In addition to adsorbing and removing moisture, the adsorbent is preferably 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 20 achieved, but a purification effect is also obtained.

[0117] The adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 26 preferably has the function of adsorbing moisture and the like at temperatures of -20 to 60°C and removing moisture and the like at temperatures above 60°C.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] Type A silicone is preferred as the silicone material used.

[0121] Materials with polyacrylic acid-based polymer chains are preferred as polymer adsorbents. For example, sodium polyacrylate can be used as a polymer adsorbent.

[0122] 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).

[0123] In addition, the air in the carriage contains volatile components such as 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.

[0124] The adsorption layer 26 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.

[0125] The thickness of the adsorption layer 26 can be determined based on the size of the compartment 24 and is not particularly limited. For example, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient contact with air, the thickness of the adsorption layer 26 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 26 from peeling off from the partition wall 25 or the outer peripheral wall 22, the thickness of the adsorption layer 26 is preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 380 μm or less, and even more preferably 350 μm or less.

[0126] The thickness of the adsorption layer 26 is measured according to the following steps: A cross-section of the honeycomb structure 21 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. This cross-section is then positioned so that it passes through the centroid of a cross-section of the honeycomb structure 21 orthogonal to the flow path direction. For each adsorption layer 26 visible in the cross-sectional image, the thickness is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area by the length of the compartment 24 in the flow path direction. This calculation is performed for all adsorption layers 26 visible in the cross-sectional image, and the overall average value is taken as the thickness of the adsorption layer 26.

[0127] From the viewpoint of achieving the desired function within the humidity control device 20, the amount of the adsorption layer 26 is preferably 50 to 500 g / L relative to the volume of the honeycomb structure 21, more preferably 100 to 400 g / L, and even more preferably 150 to 350 g / L. Furthermore, the volume of the honeycomb structure 21 is a value determined based on the external dimensions of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0128] In the regeneration mode of the adsorption layer 26, in order to promote the removal of moisture captured by the adsorption layer 26, it is preferable to heat the adsorption layer 26 to a temperature above the removal temperature, depending on the type of adsorbent. For example, it is preferable to heat the adsorption layer 26 to 70–150°C, more preferably to 80–140°C, and even more preferably to 90–130°C.

[0129] (2-3. A pair of electrodes 27a, 27b)

[0130] The positions of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are not particularly limited, such as Figure 6AAs shown, electrodes 27a and 27b can be disposed on the first end face 23a and the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. In addition, a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can also be disposed on the outer peripheral wall 22 of the honeycomb structure 21, which is parallel to the direction in which the compartment 24 extends.

[0131] By applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, the honeycomb structure 21 can be heated using Joule heating.

[0132] The electrodes 27a and 27b 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 22 and / or partition wall 25 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 27a and 27b can be a single-layer structure or a stacked structure of two or more layers. When the electrode pair 27a and 27b has a stacked structure of two or more layers, the materials of each layer can be the same or different types.

[0133] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be appropriately set according to the method of forming the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b. Examples of methods for forming the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b include metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste or by fusion deposition. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can also be formed by bonding metal plates or alloy plates.

[0134] Regarding the thickness of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, 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.

[0135] (2-4.Terminal 28)

[0136] Terminal 28 is connected to a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, and is disposed on at least a portion of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b. The provision of terminal 28 facilitates connection to an external power source. Terminal 28 is connected to a wire connected to an external power source.

[0137] The material of terminal 28 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.

[0138] The size and shape of terminal 28 are not particularly limited. For example, such as Figure 6A As shown, a terminal 28 can be integrally disposed on a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the outer peripheral wall 22. Alternatively, the terminal 28 can be disposed on a portion of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the outer peripheral wall 22, or it can be configured to extend further outward than the outer edge of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the outer peripheral wall 22. Furthermore, the terminal 28 can be disposed on a portion of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the partition wall 25, or it can be configured to seal off a portion of the compartment 24.

[0139] In addition, the thickness of terminal 28 is not particularly limited, for example, it is 0.01 to 10 mm, typically 0.05 to 5 mm.

[0140] Regarding the connection method between terminal 28 and a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, any electrical connection is acceptable and there are no particular limitations. For example, the connection can be made by diffusion bonding, mechanical pressure mechanism, welding, etc.

[0141] (2-5. Manufacturing method of humidity control equipment 20)

[0142] There is no particular limitation on the manufacturing method of the humidity control device 20, and it can be carried out according to known methods. Hereinafter, the method of manufacturing the humidity control device 20 will be described illustratively.

[0143] The manufacturing method of the honeycomb structure 21 constituting the humidity control device 20 includes a molding process and a firing process.

[0144] 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%.

[0145] The powders can be dry-mixed according to the desired composition to obtain ceramic raw materials.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] Relative density (%) of honeycomb molded material = Density of honeycomb molded material (g / cm³) 3 True density of the ceramic raw material as a whole (g / cm³) 3 )×100

[0150] 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, we need to use the following method.

[0151] Examples of dispersion media include water, or a mixture of water and organic solvents such as alcohols, with water being particularly preferred.

[0152] Examples of adhesives include organic adhesives such as methylcellulose, hydroxypropoxycellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, and polyvinyl alcohol. A 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 the adhesive does not contain alkali metal elements.

[0153] Examples of plasticizers include: polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polycarboxylic acid polymers, and alkyl phosphates.

[0154] 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.

[0155] Honeycomb structures can be manufactured by extruding preforms. During extrusion molding, a die with the desired overall shape, cell shape, cell wall thickness, cell density, etc., can be used.

[0156] 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. Furthermore, there is no particular upper limit to the relative density of the honeycomb molded body, which is typically 80%, preferably 75%.

[0157] 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.

[0158] 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.

[0159] By holding the honeycomb molded body at a maximum temperature of 1360–1430°C for 0.5–10 hours, a honeycomb structure 21 with BaTiO3 crystalline particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, as the main component can be obtained.

[0160] 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 21 to be densified.

[0161] 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 21. 17 O 40 Crystallized particles.

[0162] The holding time at 1150–1250°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.5–10 hours. By setting the holding time to this level, the Ba2TiO4 crystal particles generated during the firing process can be easily and stably removed.

[0163] 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 21 with a specified composition.

[0164] In addition, a degreasing process can be performed before the firing process to remove the binder. The atmosphere for the degreasing process is preferably atmospheric to ensure complete decomposition of the organic components.

[0165] Furthermore, from the perspective of controlling electrical characteristics and manufacturing costs, the atmosphere for the firing process is preferably an atmospheric atmosphere.

[0166] 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.

[0167] A pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are formed on the honeycomb structure 21 obtained in this way. The pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be formed by metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can also be formed by fusion deposition. The pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be composed of a single layer or multiple electrode layers with different compositions. The following describes representative methods for forming the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b.

[0168] First, an electrode slurry containing electrode material, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium is prepared and coated onto the first end face 23a or the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. 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 21 is removed by blowing and wiping. Then, by drying the slurry, a pair of electrodes 27a, 27b can be formed on the first end face 23a or the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. Drying can be performed while heating the honeycomb structure 21 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 27a, 27b.

[0169] Next, terminals 28 are positioned at predetermined locations on the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, and the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are connected to the terminals 28. The method described above can be used as a method for connecting the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b to the terminals 28.

[0170] In addition, the terminal 28 can be configured after the adsorption layer 26 described below is formed.

[0171] Next, an adsorption layer 26 is formed on the surface of the partition 25, etc., of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0172] The method for forming the adsorption layer 26 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be formed using the following steps: The honeycomb structure 21 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 21 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. Afterward, by drying the slurry, the adsorption layer 26 can be formed on the surface of the partition wall 25, etc. The honeycomb structure 21 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 26 of desired thickness on the surface of the partition wall 25, etc.

[0173] (2-6. Other humidity control equipment 20)

[0174] The humidity control device 20 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 20 with such a structure, an example is a device in which an adsorption layer 26 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.

[0175] In the humidity control device 20 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 26 provided on the surface of the fins can be heated.

[0176] The humidity control device 20 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 26 on the surface of the fins. The adsorption layer 26 can be formed using the method described above.

[0177] The humidity control device 20 may include: a honeycomb structure 21 having an outer peripheral wall 22 and partition walls 25, the partition walls 25 being disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 22 and dividing it into multiple compartments 24, the multiple compartments 24 extending from a first end face 23a to a second end face 23b to form airflow paths; an adsorption layer 26 containing an adsorbent disposed on the surface of the partition walls 25; and a heater disposed on the upstream side of the honeycomb structure 21. Furthermore, the structure of this humidity control device 20 is equivalent to... Figure 6AThe structure that removes a pair of electrodes 27a, 27b and terminal 28 is as follows.

[0178] In the humidification device 20 having the heating structure described above, by circulating air heated by the heater through the compartments 24 of the honeycomb structure 21, the adsorption layer 26 provided on the surface of the partition wall 25 can be heated.

[0179] Regarding the humidification device 20 with the heating structure described above, the honeycomb structure 21 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 21 can also be made of a material that can heat up by being energized.

[0180] Furthermore, the humidification device 20 having the heating structure described above can be manufactured according to the method described above.

[0181] (3. HVAC Unit 30)

[0182] HVAC unit 30 may include evaporator 31 for cooling and dehumidifying the air circulating in HVAC unit 30.

[0183] Additionally, the HVAC unit 30 may include a condenser 32 for heating the air flowing through the HVAC unit 30. The location of the condenser 32 is not particularly limited; for example, it may be configured within the flow path 10 downstream of the evaporator 31.

[0184] The HVAC unit 30 includes, downstream of the evaporator 31 and condenser 32, a defrost opening 33a, a foot opening 33b, and a face opening 33c that open towards the vehicle interior. It also includes a defrost door 34a for adjusting the amount of air blown out from the defrost opening 33a, a foot door 34b for adjusting the amount of air blown out from the foot opening 33b, and a face door 34c for adjusting the amount of air blown out from the face opening 33c.

[0185] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the HVAC unit 30 may include a fan 50 (blower). Specifically, in Figure 1 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the HVAC unit 30 may include a fan 50 in both the third flow path 13 equipped with a humidification device 20 and the fourth flow path 14 without a humidification device 20. Additionally, in Figure 2 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the HVAC unit 30, including the fan 50, can be located within the flow path 10 upstream of the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14. Additionally, in Figure 5In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the HVAC unit 30 can be located in the flow path 10 upstream of the evaporator 31, including the fan 50.

[0186] Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the ventilator 50, and any known ventilator can be used.

[0187] On the other hand, Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, a fan 50 is provided in the flow path 10 within a separate channel 15, distinct from the HVAC unit 30. Additionally, in Figure 5 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, in addition to the fan 50 installed in the HVAC unit 30, a fan 50 is also installed in the flow path 10 within the passage 15. Specifically, in Figure 3 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the flow path 10 in the channel 15 upstream of the HVAC unit 30, and the third flow path 13 equipped with the humidification device 20 and the fourth flow path 14 without the humidification device 20, each include a fan 50. Additionally, in Figure 4 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the fan 50 is included in the flow path 10 within the channel 15 upstream of the HVAC unit 30, and in the flow path 10 upstream of the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14. Additionally, in Figure 5 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, a fan 50 may be included in the third flow path 13 upstream of the humidification device 20.

[0188] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the HVAC unit 30 may include: an internal air supply port 51a for supplying internal air, an external air supply port 51b for supplying external air, and a regulating damper 52 for adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced.

[0189] On the other hand, Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the case of the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the channel 15 upstream of the HVAC unit 30 may include: an internal air supply port 51a for supplying internal air, an external air supply port 51b for supplying external air, and a regulating damper 52 for adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced.

[0190] HVAC unit 30 may include an air mixing gate 39 between evaporator 31 and condenser 32.

[0191] The air mixing door 39 is configured to rotate between a heating position (opening a heating path toward the condenser 32) and a cooling position (opening a cooling path bypassing the condenser 32) within the flow path 10 of the HVAC unit 30. Furthermore, by rotating the air mixing door 39 between the heating and cooling positions, the ratio between the air passing through the condenser 32 and the air bypassing the condenser 32 can be adjusted, thereby regulating the temperature of the air flowing into the vehicle.

[0192] The evaporator 31 and condenser 32 of the HVAC unit 30 can be connected to a heat pump in a loop.

[0193] Here, a schematic diagram of the heat pump cycle connected to the evaporator 31 and the condenser 32 is shown. Figure 7 .

[0194] In the heat pump cycle, the evaporator 31 can exchange the cold refrigerant with the heat of the air. Specifically, the evaporator 31 absorbs heat through the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing through the heat pump cycle, cooling the air passing through the flow path 10 around the evaporator 31. Conversely, the condenser 32 can exchange the warm refrigerant with the heat of the air. Specifically, the condenser 32 releases heat through the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing through the heat pump cycle, heating the air passing through the flow path 10 around the condenser 32.

[0195] The heat pump cycle may further include: a compressor 35, an outdoor heat exchanger 36, expansion valves 37a, 37b and shut-off valves 38a to 38d, the various components of which are connected via a refrigerant flow path.

[0196] The compressor 35 has the function of compressing and discharging refrigerant. The suction section of the compressor 35 is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 36 via a refrigerant flow path, and the discharge section is connected to the condenser 32 via a refrigerant flow path. The compressor 35 is driven by the control unit 40, and by compressing the refrigerant, it can discharge high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant to the condenser 32.

[0197] In addition, a known device such as a gas-liquid separator can be installed between the compressor 35 and the outdoor heat exchanger 36.

[0198] The outdoor heat exchanger 36 has the function of exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the outside atmosphere. When primarily operating in heating mode, the outdoor heat exchanger 36 absorbs heat from the outside atmosphere through the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing inside, and uses this heat absorption to vaporize the refrigerant. Conversely, when primarily operating in cooling mode, the outdoor heat exchanger 36 releases heat to the outside atmosphere through the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing inside, and uses this heat release to cool the refrigerant.

[0199] Expansion valves 37a and 37b are throttling valves whose opening degree can be adjusted by the control unit 40. Specifically, regarding expansion valve 37a, in heating mode, it depressurizes and expands the refrigerant ejected from condenser 32, then ejects the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant to outdoor heat exchanger 36. Furthermore, regarding expansion valve 37b, in cooling mode, it depressurizes and expands the refrigerant from outdoor heat exchanger 36, then ejects the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant to evaporator 31.

[0200] The shut-off valves 38a to 38d are installed to control the flow path of the refrigerant. The shut-off valves 38a to 38d are controlled to open and close via the control unit 40.

[0201] (4. Control Unit 40)

[0202] The control unit 40 controls the humidification equipment 20, the HVAC unit 30 (including the heat pump cycle), and the regulating damper 52 according to the operating mode. Therefore, the control unit 40 is electrically connected to the humidification equipment 20, the HVAC unit 30, and the regulating damper 52. That is, the control unit 40 can control the humidification equipment 20 in either adsorption (dehumidification) mode or regeneration mode. Additionally, the control unit 40 can control the HVAC unit 30 in either heating mode or cooling (dehumidification) mode. Furthermore, the control unit 40 adjusts the opening degree of the internal air supply port 51a and the external air supply port 51b using the regulating damper 52, thereby controlling the proportion of external air introduced.

[0203] The control unit 40 is electrically connected to the shut-off valves 38a to 38d of the heat pump cycle, and the flow path of the refrigerant can be controlled by opening and closing the shut-off valves 38a to 38d. Additionally, the control unit 40 is electrically connected to the expansion valves 37a and 37b of the heat pump cycle, and the degree of refrigerant pressure reduction can be controlled by adjusting the opening degree of the expansion valves 37a and 37b. Furthermore, the control unit 40 is also electrically connected to the air mixing door 39, the fan 50, the first valve 60, and the second valve 61, and can control them.

[0204] The control unit 40 is not specifically defined, but is usually an ECU (Engine (electronic) Control Unit). An ECU has: a CPU that performs various 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.

[0205] In the vehicle air conditioning system according to the embodiments of the present invention, the control unit 40, as the operating mode of the humidity control device 20, can perform adsorption (dehumidification) mode and regeneration mode.

[0206] <Adsorption Mode>

[0207] exist Figure 1 and Figure 3 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the fan 50 configured in the third flow path 13 is activated to control the first valve 60 so that air flows into the first flow path 11, and air circulates through the humidification device 20, thereby dehumidifying.

[0208] In addition, Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the fan 50 is started to control the second valve 61 so that air flows into the third flow path 13, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that air flows into the first flow path 11, and air circulates through the humidification device 20, thereby adsorbing moisture.

[0209] In addition, Figure 5 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the fan 50 in the HVAC unit 30 is activated to control the first valve 60 by allowing air to flow into the first flow path 11, and to circulate air through the humidification device 20, thereby absorbing moisture. At this time, the fan 50 configured in the third flow path 13 can be activated.

[0210] In addition, in the adsorption mode, the humidification device 20 is not heated.

[0211] <Regeneration Mode>

[0212] exist Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the fan 50, located in the third flow path 13, is activated to allow air to flow into the third flow path 13 and out to the second flow path 12. This controls the first valve 60 to circulate air through the humidification device 20. At this time, by heating the humidification device 20, the moisture adsorbed by the humidification device 20 is removed, thus enabling the regeneration of the humidification device 20.

[0213] In addition, Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the vehicle air conditioning system shown, the fan 50 is activated to control the second valve 61 so that air flows into the third flow path 13, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that air flows out into the second flow path 12, thus allowing air to circulate through the humidification device 20. At this time, by heating the humidification device 20, the moisture adsorbed by the humidification device 20 is removed, thereby enabling the regeneration of the humidification device 20.

[0214] In the vehicle air conditioning system according to the embodiments of the present invention, the control unit 40, as an operating mode of the HVAC unit 30, can execute a heating mode and a cooling mode.

[0215] <Heating Mode>

[0216] Regarding the heating mode, the shut-off valves 38a and 38b are opened, and then the shut-off valves 38c and 38d are closed, thus forming a flow path through which the refrigerant flows sequentially from the compressor 35, condenser 32, expansion valve 37a, and outdoor heat exchanger 36.

[0217] The refrigerant compressed by compressor 35, as a high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant, enters condenser 32 and releases heat by exchanging heat with the air flowing in flow path 10 of HVAC unit 30. The refrigerant leaving condenser 32 is depressurized and expanded by expansion valve 37a, becoming a low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant. It then absorbs heat by exchanging heat with the outside atmosphere through outdoor heat exchanger 36 and returns to compressor 35.

[0218] When this heating mode is implemented, the air flowing through the flow path 10 in the HVAC unit 30 is heated by the condenser 32, allowing the heated air to flow into the passenger compartment. The temperature of the air flowing into the passenger compartment can be adjusted by controlling the opening of the air mixing door 39.

[0219] <First Cooling Operation Mode>

[0220] Regarding the cooling operation mode, the shut-off valves 38c and 38d are opened, and then the shut-off valves 38a and 38b are closed, thus forming a flow path in which the refrigerant flows sequentially from the compressor 35, the outdoor heat exchanger 36, the expansion valve 37b, and the evaporator 31.

[0221] The refrigerant, compressed to a high temperature and pressure by compressor 35, releases heat by exchanging heat with the outside atmosphere in outdoor heat exchanger 36, thereby being cooled. The refrigerant leaving outdoor heat exchanger 36 is depressurized and expanded by expansion valve 37b, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant that enters evaporator 31, where it absorbs heat by exchanging heat with the air flowing in flow path 10 of HVAC unit 30. The refrigerant leaving evaporator 31 returns to compressor 35.

[0222] When this cooling operation mode is implemented, the air flowing within the flow path 10 of the HVAC unit 30 is cooled by the evaporator 31, and the cooled air flows into the passenger compartment. This cooling operation mode is particularly useful when it is desired to cool the passenger compartment quickly (forced cooling operation mode).

[0223] <Second Cooling Operation Mode>

[0224] Regarding the second cooling operation mode, the shut-off valves 38b and 38d are opened, and then the shut-off valves 38a and 38c are closed, thus forming a flow path in which the refrigerant flows sequentially from the compressor 35, condenser 32, expansion valve 37a, outdoor heat exchanger 36, expansion valve 37b and evaporator 31.

[0225] In this cooling operation mode, a condenser 32 and an expansion valve 37a are also arranged downstream of the compressor 35 in the refrigerant flow path. Furthermore, in this cooling operation mode, by controlling the opening of the air mixing valve 39, the cooling of the air by the evaporator 31 and the heating of the air by the condenser 32 can be adjusted, thus enabling the air temperature to be controlled at the optimal temperature.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system for a vehicle, wherein, The vehicle air conditioning system includes: The flow path allows for the circulation of internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle, and includes a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced. A humidity control device is configured within the flow path and is capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing moisture and a regeneration mode for removing moisture. The HVAC unit is capable of performing a heating mode that heats both the internal and external atmospheres. as well as The control unit is capable of controlling the humidity control equipment, the HVAC unit, and the regulating damper. When the control unit is executing the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device, and the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 20% to 90%.

2. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein, When the control unit is executing the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device, and the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode in the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 40% to 70%.

3. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The HVAC unit includes a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air to the amount of external air introduced.

4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The humidity control device is located within the HVAC unit.

5. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The humidity control device is located upstream of the HVAC unit.

6. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The flow path branches downstream of the humidification device into a first flow path that allows the internal and external air to flow into the vehicle, and a second flow path that allows the internal and external air to flow out of the vehicle. The vehicle air conditioning system also includes a first valve that can switch the flow of the internal atmosphere and the external atmosphere between the first flow path and the second flow path.

7. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The humidity control device includes an adsorption section and a heating mechanism or structure capable of heating the adsorption section. The adsorption section contains an adsorbent capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above the specified temperature.

8. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 7, wherein, The humidity control equipment includes: 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 flow path of the internal atmosphere and the external atmosphere; An adsorption layer, disposed on the surface of the partition wall, and containing the adsorbent; and 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.

9. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 8, wherein, At least the partitions of the cellular structure are made of a material with PTC properties.

10. A control method for a vehicle air conditioning system, wherein, The vehicle's air conditioning system is equipped with: The flow path allows for the circulation of internal air inside the vehicle and external air outside the vehicle, and includes a regulating damper capable of adjusting the ratio of the amount of internal air and external air introduced. A humidity control device is configured within the flow path and is capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing moisture and a regeneration mode for removing moisture. The HVAC unit is capable of performing a heating mode that heats both the internal and external atmospheres. as well as The control unit is capable of controlling the humidity control equipment, the HVAC unit, and the regulating damper. In the control method of the vehicle air conditioning system described above. When the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device are executed, if the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 20% to 90%.

11. The control method for a vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 10, wherein, When the heating mode of the HVAC unit and the adsorption mode or regeneration mode of the humidity control device are executed, if the occupant manually selects the external air intake mode of the vehicle, the control unit controls the regulating damper in a manner that the proportion of external air intake is 40% to 70%.

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