Vehicle air conditioning system and method for controlling same

Abstract

The invention provides an air conditioning system for a vehicle, which can more reliably remove fog blurring of window glass of the vehicle. A vehicle air-conditioning system (1) is provided with: a humidity-conditioning device (2) having an adsorption unit (20) that contains an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture at a predetermined temperature or less and desorbing the adsorbed moisture when the temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature; a first flow path (3) that sends air (10) from the cabin or outside the vehicle to the cabin without passing through the humidity control device (2); a second flow path (4) that sends air (10) to the vehicle cabin through the humidity control device (2); and a flow rate control device (5) for controlling the flow rate of the air (10) passing through the second flow path (4) when the air (10) toward the vehicle interior is blown out from the defroster such that the flow rate of the air (10) passing through the first flow path (3) and the second flow path (4), which is the rate of the flow rate of the dehumidified air, is 5% or more when the air (10) is blown out from the defroster. The flow rate of air (10) passing through the first flow path (3) and / or the second flow path (4) is controlled.

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 carbon dioxide 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 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] Patent Document 1 disclosed below discloses a vehicle cabin purification system, which includes a humidification device (heater component). Using this humidification device, water vapor and CO2 and other target components in the air of the vehicle cabin are captured in functional materials such as adsorption materials. The target components are then reacted or detached by heating and released outside the vehicle, thereby regenerating the functional materials.

[0004] In addition, as described in Patent Document 2 below, air is blown onto the vehicle's windows to remove fogging. To reduce heat loss due to ventilation in cold weather, internal air circulation is performed while partially introducing external air, thereby reducing the humidity of the air blown onto the windows.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-101455

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-298323 Summary of the Invention

[0009] It can be argued that by using air from the humidification device of Patent Document 1 to remove fog from window glass like that in Patent Document 2, the efficiency of fog removal from window glass can be improved. However, depending on the proportion of air passing through the humidification device in the total flow rate of air that has passed through the humidification device and air that has not passed through the humidification device, the fog removal from the window glass may be insufficient.

[0010] The present invention was carried out to solve the problems described above, and one of its objectives is to provide a vehicle air conditioning system and control method thereof that can more reliably remove fogging from vehicle windows.

[0011] [1] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an air conditioning system for a vehicle, comprising: a humidification device having an adsorption section containing an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above the specified temperature; a first flow path that delivers air from the passenger compartment or outside the vehicle to the passenger compartment without passing through the humidification device; a second flow path that delivers the air to the passenger compartment through the humidification device; and a flow control device that, when blowing air toward the passenger compartment from a defroster, controls the flow rate of the air passing through the first flow path and / or the second flow path in such a way that the flow rate of the air passing through the second flow path accounts for a proportion of the total flow rate of the air passing through the first flow path and the second flow path, i.e., the dehumidified air flow rate proportion, of 5% or more.

[0012] [2] Based on the vehicle air conditioning system described in the first item of the present invention, the flow control device may include: a blower for supplying air to the humidification equipment.

[0013] [3] Based on the vehicle air conditioning system described in the first or second item of the present invention, the flow control device may include: a flow control valve disposed in the first flow path.

[0014] [4] Based on the vehicle air conditioning system described in any one of the first to third items of the present invention, the flow control device can set the dehumidified air flow rate ratio to 7% or more.

[0015] [5] Based on the vehicle air conditioning system described in the fourth item of the present invention, the flow control device can set the dehumidified air flow rate ratio to 15% or more.

[0016] [6] Based on the vehicle air conditioning system described in any one of the first to fifth items of the present invention, the vehicle air conditioning system may further include a humidity sensor that measures the humidity inside the vehicle compartment, and the flow control device changes the dehumidification airflow ratio based on the humidity measured by the humidity sensor.

[0017] [7] Based on the vehicle air conditioning system described in any one of the first to sixth claims of the present invention, the adsorption unit may include: a honeycomb structure having an outer wall and a partition wall, the partition wall being disposed on the inner side of the outer wall and dividing to form a compartment, the compartment extending from a first end face to a second end face to form the air flow path; and an adsorption layer disposed on the surface of the partition wall and containing the adsorption material, the humidification device further having a heating mechanism having: a pair of electrodes connected to the honeycomb structure, allowing current to pass through the pair of electrodes and flow through the honeycomb structure to heat the honeycomb structure, at least the partition wall of the honeycomb structure being made of a material having PTC properties.

[0018] [8] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a control method for a vehicle air conditioning system, the vehicle air conditioning system comprising: a humidification device having an adsorption section containing an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above the specified temperature; a first flow path that delivers air from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle to the vehicle compartment without passing through the humidification device; and a second flow path that delivers the air to the vehicle compartment through the humidification device, the control method for the vehicle air conditioning system comprising: when air directed toward the vehicle compartment is blown out from a defroster, controlling the flow rate of the air passing through the first flow path and / or the second flow path in such a way that the flow rate of the air passing through the second flow path accounts for a proportion of the total flow rate of the air passing through the first flow path and the second flow path, i.e., the dehumidified air flow rate proportion, of 5% or more.

[0019] Invention Effects

[0020] According to one embodiment of the vehicle air conditioning system and control method of the present invention, when air toward the passenger compartment is blown out from the defroster, the dehumidification airflow ratio is set to 5% or more, so the fogging of the vehicle window glass can be removed more reliably. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an air conditioning system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a modified air conditioning system for a vehicle.

[0023] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The front view of the humidity control equipment.

[0024] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 Right view of the humidification equipment.

[0025] Figure 5 It is Figure 3 The magnified view of region V is shown.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 1: Vehicle air conditioning system; 2: Humidity control equipment; 3: First flow path; 4: Second flow path; 5: Flow control device; 7: Humidity sensor; 10: Air; 20: Adsorption section; 21: Heating mechanism; 51: Flow control valve; 90: Honeycomb structure; 90a: First end face; 90b: Second end face; 91: Adsorption layer; 92: Electrode; 93: Electrode; 900: Outer wall; 901: Partition wall; 901a: Compartment. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to each embodiment, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple constituent elements disclosed in each embodiment. For example, several constituent elements can be deleted from all the constituent elements given in the embodiments. In addition, constituent elements from different embodiments can be appropriately combined.

[0029] (1. Regarding vehicle air conditioning systems)

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle air conditioning system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment is a system mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle is not particularly limited, and examples include automobiles and electric vehicles. The automobile is not particularly limited, and examples 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 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention is particularly preferred for vehicles without an internal combustion engine, such as electric vehicles and electric vehicles.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle air conditioning system 1 includes: a humidification device 2, a first flow path 3, a second flow path 4, and a flow control device 5.

[0032] The humidity control device 2 has an adsorption section 20. The adsorption section 20 contains an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture when the specified temperature is exceeded.

[0033] The first flow path 3 is a flow path that delivers air 10 from inside or outside the vehicle into the vehicle compartment without passing through the humidification device 2. The second flow path 4 is a flow path that delivers air 10 into the vehicle compartment through the humidification device 2. When air 10 passes through the humidification device 2, the moisture in the air 10 can be adsorbed by the adsorption material. That is, the air 10 that has passed through the humidification device 2 or the second flow path 4 is dehumidified.

[0034] The flow control device 5 is a device that controls the flow rate of the air 10 passing through the first flow path 3 and / or the second flow path 4 in such a way that the flow rate of the air 10 passing through the second flow path 4 accounts for more than 5% of the total flow rate of the air 10 passing through the first flow path 3 and the second flow path 4.

[0035] A defroster is an air outlet for blowing air 10 onto the inner surface of a vehicle's window glass to remove fogging. The window glass includes the windshield and side windows, and the defroster is sometimes located below the windshield and / or at the front lower part of the side windows.

[0036] By using the air 10 that has passed through the humidification device 2 or the second flow path 4 to remove fog from the window glass, the fog removal efficiency of the window glass can be improved. However, depending on the dehumidification airflow ratio, the fog removal of the window glass may be insufficient. In the vehicle air conditioning system 1 of this embodiment, when the air 10 directed towards the passenger compartment is blown out from the defroster, by setting the dehumidification airflow ratio to 5% or more, the fog on the vehicle window glass can be removed more reliably.

[0037] The components of the vehicle air conditioning system 1 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail below.

[0038] The humidity control device 2 in this embodiment is disposed outside the HVAC unit 6. The HVAC unit 6 is a unit for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in a vehicle. The HVAC unit 6 includes an HVAC inlet 60, an HVAC outlet 61, an HVAC duct 62, and an HVAC blower 63. The HVAC inlet 60 is connected to the HVAC outlet 61 via the HVAC duct 62. The HVAC blower 63 is disposed inside the HVAC duct 62 between the HVAC inlet 60 and the HVAC outlet 61. By operating the HVAC blower 63, air 10 from the passenger compartment or outside the vehicle enters through the HVAC inlet 60 and is delivered to the passenger compartment through the HVAC outlet 61. Although not shown, equipment such as a compressor, evaporator, and heat exchanger for heating and / or cooling the air 10 is disposed between the HVAC inlet 60 and the HVAC outlet 61.

[0039] HVAC outlet 61 includes multiple outlets, including a defroster. By operating a switch (not shown) mounted on the vehicle, the flow path within the HVAC passage 62 can be switched, causing air 10 to be blown out from the defroster. When a signal indicating that the switch has been operated is input, the flow control device 5 can control the dehumidified airflow ratio as described above.

[0040] The humidification device 2 is disposed inside a humidification channel 23 configured to allow air 10 from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle to circulate. The humidification channel 23 is disposed outside the HVAC unit 6. The humidification channel 23 has a vehicle compartment flow path 230 for allowing air 10 passing through the humidification device 2 to flow into the vehicle compartment, and an outside flow path 231 for allowing air 10 passing through the humidification device 2 to flow out of the vehicle. The vehicle compartment flow path 230 and the outside flow path 231 are separated from each other by a channel partition 232. Although not shown, the vehicle compartment flow path 230 and the outside flow path 231 can be arranged with a gap between them.

[0041] The humidification passage 23 and the HVAC air inlet 60 are configured such that both air 10 outside the humidification passage 23 and air 10 that has passed through the carriage flow path 230 can enter through the HVAC air inlet 60. The first flow path 3, which delivers air 10 to the carriage without passing through the humidification device 2, includes the space outside the humidification passage 23, and the second flow path 4, which delivers air 10 that has passed through the humidification device 2 to the carriage, includes the carriage flow path 230.

[0042] The flow control device 5 includes a humidifying blower 50 that supplies air 10 to the humidifying equipment 2. The humidifying blower 50 is positioned upstream of the humidifying equipment 2 in the direction of air 10 flow. The humidifying blower 50 is located inside the humidification passage 23. By increasing the amount of actuation of the humidifying blower 50, the flow rate of air 10 passing through the second flow path 4 can be increased, thereby increasing the proportion of dehumidified air flow.

[0043] Furthermore, increasing the operating amount of the HVAC blower 63 increases not only the airflow 10 through the second flow path 4 but also the airflow 10 through the first flow path 3. By controlling the ratio of the operating amounts of the HVAC blower 63 and the humidification blower 50, the dehumidification airflow ratio can be controlled. The flow control device 5 may also include the HVAC blower 63.

[0044] The flow control device 5 preferably sets the dehumidified airflow rate to 7% or more, and more preferably to 15% or more. By setting the dehumidified airflow rate to these values ​​or higher, the fogging on the inner surface of the vehicle's glass can be removed more reliably.

[0045] The vehicle air conditioning system 1 may further include a humidity sensor 7 for measuring the humidity inside the passenger compartment. The flow control device 5 can adjust the dehumidification airflow ratio based on the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 7. The flow control device 5 may be configured such that the higher the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 7, the larger the dehumidification airflow ratio. Therefore, more dehumidification can be performed when the humidity inside the passenger compartment is high. For example, when the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 7 is 50% or higher, the dehumidification airflow ratio can be set to 10%, and when the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 7 is 60% or higher, the dehumidification airflow ratio can be set to 15%. The humidity sensor 7 can be placed in any location. The humidity sensor 7 can be placed inside the passenger compartment or in the flow path through which the air 10 from the passenger compartment passes. The humidity sensor 7 is capable of measuring relative humidity.

[0046] The humidity control device 2 may further include a heating mechanism 21 configured to heat the adsorption section 20. By heating the adsorption section 20 with the heating mechanism 21, moisture is detached from the adsorption material of the adsorption section 20.

[0047] The vehicle air conditioning system 1 may further include a switching valve 8 capable of switching the flow of air 10 through the humidification passage 23 between the passenger compartment flow path 230 and the external flow path 231. Regarding the switching valve 8, when moisture in the air 10 is adsorbed onto the humidification device 2, the air 10 can flow through the passenger compartment flow path 230; when moisture is removed from the humidification device 2, the air 10 can flow through the external flow path 231. Figure 1The diagram shows the state in which air 10 flows through the vehicle compartment flow path 230. The intention is that the air 10 flowing through the vehicle compartment flow path 230 is supplied to the vehicle compartment via the HVAC unit 6, while the air 10 flowing through the external flow path 231 is exhausted to the outside of the vehicle without passing through the HVAC unit 6. The outlet of the external flow path 231 can be configured to be offset from the HVAC inlet 60.

[0048] The switching of the switching valve 8 can be achieved as follows: for example, the control unit 80 and the switching valve 8 can be connected by a wire 81 or wirelessly, and the switching valve 8 (not shown) can be operated by the control unit 80. The switching valve 8 can be an electrically driven valve with the function of switching flow paths; there are no particular limitations, and examples include solenoid valves and electric valves. In one embodiment, the switching valve 8 includes: an opening / closing gate 83 supported on a rotation shaft 82, and an actuator 84 such as a motor that rotates the rotation shaft 82. The actuator 84 is configured to be controllable by the control unit 80.

[0049] The vehicle air conditioning system 1 may include a control unit 80 that controls the humidification device 2, the switching valve 8, and the humidification blower 50. The control unit 80 has control modes including: an adsorption mode in which the humidification blower 50 is started without activating the heating mechanism 21, thereby causing air 10 to flow into the passenger compartment flow path 230; and a regeneration mode in which the humidification blower 50 and the heating mechanism 21 are started, thereby causing air 10 to flow into the external flow path 231. The flow control device 5 implements the adsorption mode, and when air 10 towards the passenger compartment is blown out from the defroster, the dehumidification airflow ratio can be set to a value higher than the aforementioned value.

[0050] Next, Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a modified example of a vehicle air conditioning system 1. Figure 1 In the illustrated scheme, a humidity control device 2 is configured outside the HVAC unit 6; however, it can also be configured as follows: Figure 2 As shown, a humidity control device 2 is installed inside the HVAC unit 6.

[0051] The humidification device 2 is disposed inside the HVAC duct 62 downstream of the HVAC inlet 60 and the HVAC blower 63 in the direction of air flow of the air 10. A humidification duct 23, in which the humidification device 2 is disposed, is located inside the HVAC duct 62. The humidification duct 23 may share a wall with the HVAC duct 62. A first flow path 3, which delivers air 10 to the vehicle compartment without passing through the humidification device 2, includes the space inside the HVAC duct 62 and outside the humidification duct 23. A second flow path 4, which delivers air 10 that has passed through the humidification device 2 to the vehicle compartment, includes the vehicle compartment flow path 230. Air 10 flowing through the external flow path 231 is exhausted to the outside of the vehicle without passing through the HVAC outlet 61.

[0052] The flow control device 5 includes a flow control valve 51 disposed in the first flow path 3. With respect to the flow control valve 51, by at least partially closing the first flow path 3, the flow rate of air 10 flowing through the first flow path 3 can be limited. By increasing the closure degree of the flow control valve 51, the flow rate of air 10 passing through the first flow path 3 can be reduced, thereby increasing the dehumidified air flow rate ratio. By controlling the actuation amount of the HVAC blower 63 and the closure degree of the flow control valve 51, the dehumidified air flow rate ratio can be controlled.

[0053] The flow control valve 51 can be configured arbitrarily. In one embodiment, the flow control valve 51 includes an opening / closing gate 511 supported on a rotating shaft 510, and an actuator 512, such as a motor, for rotating the rotating shaft 510. The actuator 512 is configured to be controllable by the control unit 80.

[0054] Although not illustrated, it can be compared with... Figure 1 Similarly, the solution adds a humidification blower 50 to the humidification channel 23, using the humidification blower 50 and the flow control valve 51 to control the proportion of dehumidified airflow. Other than... Figure 1 The same solution applies.

[0055] (2. About humidity control equipment)

[0056] Next, Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 The front view of the humidification device 2. Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Right view of the humidification device 2 Figure 5 It is Figure 3 The magnified view of region V is shown.

[0057] like Figures 3-5 As shown, the adsorption section 20 of the humidity control device 2 in this embodiment has a honeycomb structure 90 and an adsorption layer 91. The honeycomb structure 90 has an outer wall 900 and a partition wall 901. The partition wall 901 is disposed on the inner side of the outer wall 900 and divides the space into compartments 901a. The compartments 901a extend from the first end face 90a to the second end face 90b to form a flow path for the air 10. The adsorption layer 91 is a layer containing the aforementioned adsorption material, such as... Figure 5 As shown, it is disposed on the surface of the partition 901. Air 10 passes through the compartment 901a between the first end face 90a and the second end face 90b, so that the moisture in the air 10 is adsorbed by the adsorption material of the adsorption layer 91.

[0058] In a humidity control device 2 like this, the heating mechanism 21 has a pair of electrodes 92 and 93 connected to the honeycomb structure 90, through which current flows and passes to the honeycomb structure 90, thereby heating the honeycomb structure 90. Hereinafter, when referring to the pair of electrodes 92 and 93 separately, one will be called the first electrode 92 and the other will be called the second electrode 93.

[0059] like Figure 4 Specifically, the first electrode 92 is disposed on the first end face 90a of the honeycomb structure 90, and the second electrode 93 is disposed on the second end face 90b of the honeycomb structure 90. The first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 are disposed on the end face of the outer wall 900, and, as shown... Figure 5 The first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 are shown disposed on the end face of the partition 901. The first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 do not enclose the compartment 901a. However, a portion of the compartment 901a may be enclosed by the first electrode 92 and / or the second electrode 93.

[0060] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a first metal terminal 94 can be provided on the first electrode 92, and a second metal terminal 95 can be provided on the second electrode 93. Both the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 are rectangular frames mounted on the outer periphery of the first end face 90a and the second end face 90b. The first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 are provided with protrusions extending from the rectangular frame to the outer side of the honeycomb structure 90 in the width direction.

[0061] A positive terminal (not shown) of a power source is connected to the protrusion of either the first metal terminal 94 or the second metal terminal 95, while a negative terminal of the power source is connected to the protrusion of the other metal terminal 95. When the protrusion of the first metal terminal 94 is connected to the positive terminal and the protrusion of the second metal terminal 95 is connected to the negative terminal, the current from the first metal terminal 94 extends through the first electrode 92 on the first end face 90a, flows along the direction extending from the compartment 901a in the honeycomb structure 90, and flows into the second metal terminal 95 through the second electrode 93 on the second end face 90b. In this way, the current flows, thereby uniformly heating the honeycomb structure 90.

[0062] The honeycomb structure 90 can be a honeycomb structure in which at least the partitions 901 are made of a material with PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) properties. Materials with PTC properties have the following characteristics: when the temperature rises above the Curie point, the resistance increases sharply, making it difficult for current to flow.

[0063] The following is a detailed description of each component of the humidity control device 2.

[0064] (2-1. About honeycomb structures)

[0065] The shape of the honeycomb structure 90 is not particularly limited. For example, the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 90 orthogonal to the flow path direction (the direction in which the compartment 901a 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 90a and second end face 90b) have the same shape as the cross-section. Additionally, when the cross-section and end faces are polygonal, the corners can be chamfered.

[0066] The shape of compartment 901a is not particularly limited. In the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 90 perpendicular 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 single or combinations of two or more. Among these shapes, quadrilaterals or hexagons are preferred. By providing compartment 901a with such a shape, the pressure loss during airflow 10 can be reduced. Furthermore, Figures 3-5 The diagram shows a honeycomb structure 90 with a quadrilateral shape of the cross-section and the compartment 901a in a section orthogonal to the flow path direction as an example.

[0067] The honeycomb structure 90 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 901a, which is very important for ensuring the airflow of the air 10.

[0068] 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 material can be used. The bonding material may contain materials with PTC properties, or it may contain the same materials as the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901. 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 periphery of the bonded cell units.

[0069] From the perspectives of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 90, reducing the pressure loss of air 10 when passing through the compartment 901a, ensuring the load-bearing capacity of functional materials, and ensuring the contact area with the air 10 flowing in the compartment 901a, it is preferable to combine the thickness of the partition wall 901, the compartment density, and the compartment spacing (or the compartment opening ratio) well.

[0070] In this specification, the compartment density is the number of compartments divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 90a or second end face 90b) of the honeycomb structure 90 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 901 and compartments 901a excluding the outer wall 900).

[0071] 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 90a or second end face 90b) of the honeycomb structure 90 (the total area of ​​the partitions 901 and compartments 901a excluding the outer wall 900) 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.

[0072] In this specification, the aperture ratio of the compartments is: the total area of ​​the compartments 901a divided by the partition wall 901 in the cross section of the honeycomb structure 90 orthogonal to the flow path direction, divided by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 90a or second end face 90b) (the total area of ​​the partition wall 901 and the compartments 901a excluding the outer wall 900). Furthermore, when calculating the aperture ratio of the compartments 901a, the first electrode 92, the second electrode 93, and the adsorption layer 91 described later are not considered.

[0073] In an embodiment advantageous from the viewpoint of carrying a sufficient amount of functional material, the thickness of the partition 901 is 0.300 mm or less, and the compartment density is 140 compartments / cm³. 2 The following conditions apply, and the spacing between compartments is 0.85 mm or more. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 901 is 0.200 mm or less, and the compartment density is 120 compartments / cm². 2 The following conditions apply, and the compartment spacing is 0.91 mm or more. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 901 is 0.160 mm or less, and the compartment density is 110 compartments / cm². 2 The following applies, and the spacing between compartments is 0.95mm or more.

[0074] In the above embodiments, from the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 90 and keeping the resistance at a low level, the lower limit of the thickness of the partition 901 is preferably 0.010 mm or more, more preferably 0.020 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.030 mm or more.

[0075] In the above embodiments, from the viewpoints of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 90, 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.

[0076] In the above embodiments, from the viewpoints of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 90, 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.

[0077] In an embodiment advantageous from the viewpoint of simultaneously reducing pressure loss and maintaining strength, the thickness of the partition wall 901 is 0.08–0.36 mm, and the compartment density is 2.54–140 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 901a is 0.70 or higher. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 901 is 0.09 to 0.35 mm, and the compartment density is 15 to 100 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 901a is 0.80 or higher. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 901 is 0.14 to 0.30 mm, and the compartment density is 20 to 90 compartments / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of compartment 901a is above 0.85.

[0078] In the above embodiments, from the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 90, the upper limit of the opening ratio of the compartment 901a is preferably 0.94 or less, more preferably 0.92 or less, and even more preferably 0.90 or less.

[0079] The thickness of the outer wall 900 is not particularly limited, but is preferably determined based on the following viewpoints. First, from the viewpoint of reinforcing the honeycomb structure 90, the thickness of the outer wall 900 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 when air 10 flows, the thickness of the outer wall 900 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.

[0080] In this specification, the thickness of the outer wall 900 refers to the length in the normal direction of the side surface of the honeycomb structure 90, from the boundary between the outer wall 900 and the outermost peripheral compartment 901a or partition 901 to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 90 in a cross section orthogonal to the flow path direction.

[0081] The length of the honeycomb structure 90 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 2, without any particular limitation. For example, in the case of a compact humidity control device 2 that ensures the specified function, the length in the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 90 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. Additionally, there is no specific upper limit to the cross-sectional area orthogonal to the flow path direction; for example, it could be 300 cm². 2 .

[0082] The partitions 901 constituting the honeycomb structure 90 are made of a material that can be heated by electricity, specifically, a material with PTC properties. If necessary, the outer wall 900 can also be made of a material with PTC properties, similar to the partitions 901. By employing this configuration, the adsorption layer 91 can be heated using heat transfer from the heated partitions 901 (and, if necessary, the outer wall 900). Furthermore, the material with PTC properties exhibits a characteristic where, when the temperature rises above the Curie point, the resistance increases sharply, making it difficult for current to flow. Therefore, regarding the partitions 901 (and, if necessary, the outer wall 900), the current flowing through them is limited when the humidity control device 2 reaches a high temperature, thus suppressing overheating of the humidity control device 2. Consequently, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 91 caused by overheating can also be suppressed.

[0083] 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 170 Ω·cm or less, more preferably 160 Ω·cm or less, and even more preferably 150 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.

[0084] From the viewpoint of being able to generate heat through electricity and possessing PTC characteristics, the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901 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 accounts for more than 50% by mass of 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] The content of BaTiO3 crystalline particles can be determined by fluorescence X-ray analysis. Other crystalline particles can be determined in the same manner.

[0089] From the viewpoint of reducing environmental impact, the materials used for the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901 are preferably substantially lead-free (Pb). Specifically, the Pb content in the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901 is preferably 0.01% by mass or less, more preferably 0.001% by mass or less, and even more preferably 0% by mass. With a low Pb content, it is possible to safely blow air 10, which is heated in contact with the heated partition wall 901, towards living organisms such as humans. In addition, the Pb content in the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901, 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).

[0090] From the viewpoint of efficiently heating the air 10, the lower limit of the Curie point of the material constituting the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901 is preferably 80°C or higher, more preferably 90°C or higher, and even more preferably 100°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 250°C or lower, more preferably 225°C or lower, even more preferably 200°C or lower, and even more preferably 150°C or lower.

[0091] The Curie point of the materials constituting the outer wall 900 and the partition wall 901 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.

[0092] 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, YOKOGAWA HEWLETT PACKARD, LTD.), 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 (20°C) is defined as the Curie point.

[0093] (2-2. Regarding the first and second electrodes)

[0094] The first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 are disposed on the first end face 90a and the second end face 90b, respectively. By applying a voltage between the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, the honeycomb structure 90 can be heated by utilizing Joule heating.

[0095] The first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 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 wall 900 and / or the partition wall 901 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 first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can be a single-layer structure or a stacked structure of two or more layers. When the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 have a stacked structure of two or more layers, the materials of each layer can be the same type or different types.

[0096] The thicknesses of the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can be appropriately set according to the method of forming the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93. Examples of methods for forming the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 include metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste, or by fusion deposition. Furthermore, the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can also be manufactured by bonding metal plates or alloy plates.

[0097] Regarding the thickness of the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, 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, their thickness is preferably set to about 5 to 100 μm.

[0098] (2-3. Regarding the first metal terminal and the second metal terminal)

[0099] By providing a first metal terminal 94 and a second metal terminal 95, connection to an external power source is facilitated. The first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 are connected to a wire connected to the external power source.

[0100] The metals constituting the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 can be elemental metals or alloys. From the viewpoint of corrosion resistance, resistivity, and linear expansion, alloys containing at least one selected from the group consisting of Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Al, and Ti are preferred, and stainless steel, Fe-Ni alloys, and phosphor bronze are more preferred. The thickness of the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 is not particularly limited, but is typically 0.01 to 10 mm, and usually 0.05 to 5 mm.

[0101] Regarding the connection method between the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 and the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, 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.

[0102] (2-4. Regarding intermediate materials)

[0103] An intermediate material can be provided between the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, and between the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95. By providing an intermediate material, the structural freedom of the connection between the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, and between the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95, is increased. The material of the intermediate material is not particularly limited and can be the same as the material of the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95. Alternatively, the intermediate material can be different from the material of the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95. In this case, the intermediate material can be formed from brazing filler metal, solder, conductive adhesive, etc. Regarding the connection method between the intermediate material and the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95, and the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, any electrical connection is acceptable and is not particularly limited. For example, the connection can be achieved through diffusion bonding, mechanical pressure mechanisms, welding, etc.

[0104] (2-5. About the adsorption layer)

[0105] like Figure 5 As shown, the humidity control device 2 may include an adsorption layer 91 disposed on the surface of the partition wall 901. The adsorption layer 91 may be disposed on the surface of the partition wall 901 (in the case of the outermost compartment 901a, the partition wall 901 that divides the outermost compartment 901a and the outer wall 900). By disposing the adsorption layer 91 in this way, the functional material contained in the adsorption layer 91 can be easily heated, thereby enabling the desired function brought about by the functional material to be performed.

[0106] The adsorbent material contained in the adsorption layer 91 can be any material capable of performing the desired function; there are no particular limitations. The adsorbent material has the function of adsorbing moisture, carbon dioxide, and / or volatile components from the air. Furthermore, the adsorption layer 91 may further contain a catalyst. Thus, the target substance can be purified. By combining the adsorbent material and the catalyst, the capture function of the target substance by the adsorbent material can be improved.

[0107] The preferred adsorbent material possesses the ability to adsorb target substances, such as moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components, at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 40°C and to desorb them at temperatures above 60°C. Examples of adsorbent materials with this function include zeolites, silica gel, activated carbon, alumina, silicon dioxide, low-crystallinity clay, and amorphous aluminosilicate composites. The type of adsorbent material is selected appropriately based on the type of target substance. One type of adsorbent material can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0108] As a catalyst, it is preferable to have the function of promoting redox reactions. 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 can be used, or two or more catalysts can be used in combination.

[0109] 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.

[0110] The thickness of the adsorption layer 91 can be determined based on the size of the compartment 901a and is not particularly limited. For example, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient contact with the air 10, the thickness of the adsorption layer 91 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 91 from peeling off from the partition wall 901 or the outer wall 900, the thickness of the adsorption layer 91 is preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 380 μm or less, and even more preferably 350 μm or less.

[0111] The thickness of the adsorption layer 91 is measured according to the following steps: A cross-section of the honeycomb structure 90 parallel to the flow path direction is cut out, and a cross-sectional image at approximately 50x magnification is obtained using a scanning electron microscope or similar instrument. This cross-section is then positioned so that it passes through the centroid of a cross-section of the honeycomb structure 90 orthogonal to the flow path direction. For each adsorption layer 91 visible in the cross-sectional image, the thickness is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area by the length of the compartment 901a in the flow path direction. This calculation is performed for all adsorption layers 91 visible in the cross-sectional image, and the overall average value is taken as the thickness of the adsorption layer 91.

[0112] From the viewpoint that the functional material performs its desired function within the humidity control device 2, the amount of the adsorption layer 91 is preferably 50 to 500 g / L relative to the volume of the honeycomb structure 90, more preferably 100 to 400 g / L, and even more preferably 150 to 350 g / L. Furthermore, the volume of the honeycomb structure 90 is a value determined based on the external dimensions of the honeycomb structure 90.

[0113] (3. Regarding the manufacturing method of humidity control equipment)

[0114] The method for manufacturing the humidity control device 2 according to the embodiments of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it has the above-described features, and can be carried out according to known methods. Hereinafter, the method for manufacturing the humidity control device 2 according to the embodiments of the present invention will be described illustratively.

[0115] The manufacturing method of the honeycomb structure constituting the humidity control device 2 includes a molding process and a firing process.

[0116] 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%.

[0117] The powders can be dry-mixed according to the desired composition to obtain ceramic raw materials.

[0118] 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.

[0119] The amount of components other than ceramic raw materials can be such that the relative density of the honeycomb molded body reaches more than 60%, without any special limitation.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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

[0122] 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.

[0123] Examples of dispersion media include water, or a mixture of water and organic solvents such as alcohols, with water being particularly preferred.

[0124] 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.

[0125] Examples of plasticizers include: polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polycarboxylic acid polymers, and alkyl phosphates.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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%.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] By holding the honeycomb molded body at a maximum temperature of 1360–1430°C for 0.5–10 hours, a honeycomb structure 90 with BaTiO3 crystalline particles, in which a portion of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements, as the main component can be obtained.

[0132] 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 to be densified by 90%.

[0133] 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 90. 17 O 40 Crystallized particles.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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 90 with a specified composition.

[0136] 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.

[0137] Furthermore, from the perspective of controlling electrical characteristics and manufacturing costs, the atmosphere for the firing process is preferably an atmospheric atmosphere.

[0138] 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.

[0139] By forming a first electrode 92 and a second electrode 93 on a honeycomb structure 90 obtained in this way, a humidity control device 2 can be manufactured. Furthermore, the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can be formed by metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can be formed by sintering after coating with electrode paste. Furthermore, the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can also be formed by fusion deposition. The first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 can be composed of a single layer or multiple electrode layers with different compositions. The following describes representative methods for forming the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93.

[0140] First, an electrode slurry comprising electrode material, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium is prepared and coated onto the first end face 90a or the second end face 90b of the honeycomb structure 90. 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 90 is removed by blowing and wiping. Then, by drying the slurry, a first electrode 92 and a second electrode 93 can be formed on the first end face 90a or the second end face 90b of the honeycomb structure 90. Drying can be performed while the humidification device 2 is heated to a temperature of, for example, approximately 120–600°C. The series of processes of coating, slurry removal and drying can be performed only once or repeatedly to set the desired thickness of the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93.

[0141] Next, a first metal terminal 94 and a second metal terminal 95 are disposed at predetermined positions on the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93, and the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 are connected. The above method can be used as a method for connecting the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 to the terminals. Alternatively, if an intermediate material is provided between the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 and the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95, it is sufficient to simply place the intermediate material at the predetermined positions on the first electrode 92 and the second electrode 93 and connect them, then place the first metal terminal 94 and the second metal terminal 95 at the predetermined positions on the intermediate material and connect them. The above method can be used as one of these connection methods.

[0142] Furthermore, the first metal terminal 94, the second metal terminal 95, and the intermediate material can be disposed after the adsorption layer 91 described below is formed.

[0143] Next, by forming an adsorption layer 91 on the surface of the partition wall 901, etc., of the humidity control device 2 obtained in this way, a humidity control device with a functional material layer can be obtained.

[0144] The method for forming the adsorption layer 91 is not particularly limited, and for example, it can be formed using the following steps: The humidity conditioning device 2 is immersed in a slurry containing functional materials, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium for a specified time, and excess slurry on the end faces and outer periphery of the honeycomb structure 90 is removed by blowing and wiping. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, 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 91 can be formed on the surface of the partition wall 901. Drying can be performed while the humidity conditioning device 2 is 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 create an adsorption layer 91 of the desired thickness on the surface of the adjacent 901, etc.

[0145] (4. Control methods for vehicle air conditioning systems)

[0146] Regarding the control method of the vehicle air conditioning system 1 according to the embodiments of the present invention, the vehicle air conditioning system 1 includes: a humidification device 2 having an adsorption section 20 containing an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above a specified temperature; a first flow path 3 that delivers air 10 from the passenger compartment or outside the vehicle to the passenger compartment without passing through the humidification device 2; and a second flow path 4 that delivers air 10 to the passenger compartment through the humidification device 2. The control method of the vehicle air conditioning system 1 includes controlling the flow rate of air 10 passing through the first flow path 3 and / or the second flow path 4 such that, when air 10 toward the passenger compartment is blown out from the defroster, the flow rate of air 10 passing through the second flow path 4 is at least 5% of the total flow rate of air 10 passing through the first flow path 3 and / or the second flow path 4. Details are as described above for the vehicle air conditioning system 1.

[0147] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the present invention is not limited to these examples. It will be understood that those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the technical concept described in the claims, and that these examples naturally fall within the technical scope of this invention.

[0148] Example

[0149] The present invention will now be described in more detail by way of examples. The present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] The shape of the cross-section and end face of the honeycomb structure orthogonal to the flow direction: quadrilateral

[0153] Dimensions of the honeycomb structure: 114mm wide (horizontal), 114mm long (vertical), 10mm long

[0154] The cross-sectional shape of the compartment orthogonal to the flow path direction: quadrilateral

[0155] The thickness of the partition wall: 0.127mm

[0156] Thickness of the outer peripheral wall: 0.8mm

[0157] Compartment density: 85.3 compartments / cm³ 2

[0158] Compartment spacing: 1.08mm

[0159] Compartment opening ratio: 0.55~0.80

[0160] The cross-sectional area of ​​the honeycomb structure orthogonal to the flow direction is 13000 mm². 2

[0161] Length of the honeycomb structure in the flow path direction: 10mm

[0162] The volume resistivity of the material constituting the partition (and outer perimeter) at 25°C is 12 Ω·cm.

[0163] Curie point of the material constituting the partition (and outer perimeter): 120°C

[0164] In addition, the volume resistivity of the partition wall was controlled by adjusting the proportion of raw materials or the firing conditions.

[0165] 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.

[0166] Next, a first electrode and a second electrode with a thickness of 0.05 mm are formed on the two end faces (first end face and second end face) of the obtained honeycomb structure. The first electrode and the second electrode are formed as follows. First, an electrode paste containing aluminum (electrode material), ethyl cellulose, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (organic binder) is prepared and coated onto one end face. Next, excess electrode paste on the outer periphery of the honeycomb structure is removed by blowing and wiping, and the electrode paste is dried, thereby forming an electrode on one end face. Similarly, an electrode is formed on the other end face.

[0167] Next, the honeycomb structure with the first electrode and the second electrode is immersed in a slurry containing zeolite (adsorbent material) as a functional material, organic binder and water. The slurry adhering to excess positions (such as the outer periphery) is removed by blowing and wiping, and then dried at a temperature of about 550°C, thereby forming a functional material layer at the specified position.

[0168] Next, a first metal terminal is joined to the first electrode, and a second metal terminal is joined to the second electrode. The first and second metal terminals are joined as follows: The first and second metal terminals are made of a strip of SUS430 metal with a width of 3.5 mm and a thickness of 0.7 mm. The overall shape of the first and second metal terminals is a quadrilateral frame. With the outer edges of the first and second metal terminals aligned with the outer edges of the two end faces of the honeycomb structure, the first and second metal terminals are joined to the first and second electrodes using solder.

[0169] The sample of the humidity control device obtained as described above is configured as follows: Figure 1 It is located inside the humidity control channel outside the HVAC unit, as shown. The dimensions of each part of the humidity control channel are described below.

[0170] The internal dimensions of the passage located upstream of the branch point between the carriage flow path and the external flow path are: 114mm wide, 114mm long, and 200mm long.

[0171] Internal dimensions of the carriage flow path: 114mm wide, 50mm long, 100mm long

[0172] The internal dimensions of the vehicle's external flow path are: width 114mm, length 50mm, and length 100mm.

[0173] Distance from the downstream end face of the humidification equipment to the branch point where the flow path inside the vehicle compartment and the flow path outside the vehicle branch: 90mm

[0174] Additionally, align the outlet of the humidity control passageway with the HVAC inlet of the HVAC unit. The inlet dimensions are as follows.

[0175] The internal dimensions of the HVAC air inlet are: 114mm wide (horizontal) and 114mm long (vertical).

[0176] At this point, the position of the outlet of the vehicle's airflow path is aligned with the position of the HVAC air inlet in the transverse direction, and the lower end of the outlet of the vehicle's airflow path is aligned with the lower end of the HVAC air inlet in the longitudinal direction. That is, air that has passed through the humidification equipment enters from the lower 50mm portion of the HVAC air inlet in the longitudinal direction, and air that has not passed through the humidification equipment enters from the upper 64mm portion. The air that has not passed through the humidification equipment is air with a temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity of 30%, while the air that has passed through the humidification equipment is air with a temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity of 15%.

[0177] A humidification blower is installed upstream of the humidification equipment and inside the humidification channel, and an HVAC blower is installed inside the HVAC channel of the HVAC unit. By operating these humidification blowers and HVAC blowers, the 300m... 3 / h of air enters through the HVAC inlet. Furthermore, the dehumidified airflow ratio (the proportion of air that has passed through the humidification channel to the total airflow entering through the HVAC inlet) is controlled by adjusting the ratio of the operating volume of the humidification blower and the HVAC blower. Additionally, the HVAC unit operates in air supply mode, and equipment used for heating and / or cooling the air, such as compressors, evaporators, and heat exchangers, is stopped.

[0178] Air entering from the HVAC intake is blown onto the windshield and side windows by defrosters located below the windshield and / or at the front underside of the side windows. The airflow from the defroster below the windshield is 210m³ / h. 3 / h, the airflow from the defroster located below the front of the side window glass is 90m³ / h. 3 / h. The internal volume of the carriage is 12m³. 3 Before the air was blown out by the defroster, the temperature inside the car was 25°C and the relative humidity was 40%, which caused fogging on the windshield and side windows.

[0179] Furthermore, as shown in the table below, the dehumidification airflow ratio was changed, and visual inspection was used to confirm the fogging of the windshield and side windows 10 minutes after air was blown out from the defroster. In the table below, "〇" indicates that the fogging of the windshield or side windows was completely removed, "△" indicates that the area where the fogging was removed was more than 70% of the total volume of the windshield or side windows, and "×" indicates that the area where the fogging was removed was less than 70% of the total volume of the windshield or side windows. When the windshield is evaluated as "△" or "〇", it is considered that the fogging can be sufficiently removed and is set as qualified.

[0180] Table 1

[0181]

[0182] As shown in the table, when the dehumidified airflow rate is 3%, the evaluation for the windshield and side windows is "×". Conversely, when the dehumidified airflow rate is 5%, the evaluation for the windshield is "△". Therefore, it can be concluded that by setting the dehumidified airflow rate to 5% or higher, fogging of vehicle windows can be removed more reliably. Furthermore, by increasing the dehumidified airflow rate to 7% and 15%, fogging can be removed even more reliably.

Claims

1. An air conditioning system for a vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle air conditioning system includes: A humidity control device having an adsorption section containing an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture below a specified temperature and removing the adsorbed moisture above the specified temperature; A first flow path that delivers air from inside or outside the vehicle into the vehicle without passing through the humidification device; A second flow path, which delivers the air to the carriage through the humidification device; as well as A flow control device that controls the flow rate of air passing through the first flow path and / or the second flow path such that, when air toward the compartment is blown out from the defroster, the flow rate of air passing through the second flow path accounts for a proportion of the total flow rate of air passing through the first flow path and the second flow path, i.e., the dehumidified air flow rate proportion, of 5% or more.

2. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow control device includes a blower for supplying air to the humidification equipment.

3. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow control device includes a flow control valve disposed in the first flow path.

4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The flow control device sets the dehumidified air flow rate ratio to 7% or higher.

5. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flow control device sets the dehumidified air flow rate ratio to 15% or higher.

6. The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The vehicle's air conditioning system also includes a humidity sensor that measures the humidity inside the passenger compartment. The flow control device adjusts the dehumidified airflow ratio based on the humidity measured by the humidity sensor.

7. The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The adsorption unit comprises: A honeycomb structure having an outer wall and partitions, the partitions being disposed on the inner side of the outer wall and dividing it into compartments that extend from a first end face to a second end face to form airflow paths; and An adsorption layer is disposed on the surface of the partition wall and contains the adsorption material. The humidity control device also includes a heating mechanism comprising a pair of electrodes connected to the honeycomb structure, through which current flows to heat the honeycomb structure. At least the partitions of the cellular structure are made of a material with PTC properties.

8. A control method for a vehicle air conditioning system, the vehicle air conditioning system comprising: a humidification device having an adsorption section containing an adsorption material capable of adsorbing moisture below a predetermined temperature and desorbing the adsorbed moisture above the predetermined temperature; a first flow path for delivering air from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle to the vehicle compartment without passing through the humidification device; and a second flow path for delivering the air to the vehicle compartment through the humidification device. The control method for the vehicle air conditioning system is characterized by comprising: When the air toward the compartment is blown out from the defroster, the airflow through the first flow path and / or the second flow path is controlled such that the proportion of the airflow through the second flow path to the total airflow through the first flow path and the second flow path, i.e., the dehumidified airflow proportion, is 5% or more.

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