Dehumidifying device and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dehumidifying device and a manufacturing method thereof. The dehumidifying module of the present invention includes a dehumidifying member composed of a membrane contacted by humid air, thereby increasing a contact surface area between the humid air and the dehumidifying member and improving a moisture separation performance. The dehumidifying module is configured to include a plurality of independent dehumidifying modules each configured to include a plurality of hollow fiber membranes having a first size (diameter) fixed to form a bundle, thereby facilitating the manufacture of the dehumidifying module without fixing the hollow fiber membranes one by one.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] A dehumidifier is a household appliance that draws in air from a desired space, removes moisture from the air, and then releases the dehumidified air into the desired space, thereby reducing the humidity of the desired space.

[0003] Existing dehumidification devices draw in air from the required space and pass it through a heat exchanger consisting of a condenser and an evaporator, thereby exchanging heat between the refrigerant flowing through the condenser and evaporator and the air flowing through it to remove moisture.

[0004] The evaporator absorbs heat from the surrounding air by evaporating the liquid refrigerant, and the condenser releases heat by condensing the gaseous refrigerant, thereby transferring heat to the surrounding air. In other words, the air flowing through the heat exchanger exchanges heat with the refrigerant and its humidity is reduced while flowing through the evaporator, and the reduced-humidity air exchanges heat with the refrigerant again while flowing through the condenser, thus undergoing a drying process.

[0005] As the air flows through the heat exchanger, it is dried and then expelled into the desired space, thereby reducing the humidity in the air of that space.

[0006] Existing dehumidifiers have the problem of causing discomfort to users due to the temperature rise of the air being expelled. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method, wherein the dehumidification device can selectively separate moisture in the air through a dehumidification module including a membrane, even without driving a refrigeration cycle, thereby achieving constant temperature dehumidification without raising the temperature of the indoor space.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method that can dehumidify by means of a dehumidification module without requiring stabilization time for the refrigeration cycle, thereby shortening the dehumidification time.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method that includes a dehumidification module with a membrane (hollow fiber membrane) to increase the contact surface area between air and the dehumidification component.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method that assembles a plurality of hollow fiber membranes with very small diameters into a bundle and performs a single filling with a first filling cap, thereby facilitating the manufacture of independent dehumidification modules.

[0012] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method that utilize a second filling cap to perform secondary filling of a plurality of independent dehumidification modules, thereby facilitating the manufacture of an integral dehumidification module.

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method. The dehumidification device arranges a plurality of independent dehumidification modules between a first end cap and a second end cap and generates airflow around the plurality of independent dehumidification modules, thereby increasing the contact surface area of ​​the air with the membrane module.

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method. The dehumidification device is arranged with a plurality of independent dehumidification modules with small diameters, and an air flow path can be formed through the space between the plurality of independent dehumidification modules, thereby reducing pressure loss when air passes through the membrane module.

[0015] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and a method for manufacturing the same, wherein the dehumidification device is configured such that a first direction of the intake flow of air to be dehumidified is orthogonal to a second direction of the flow of separated water vapor, thereby improving the moisture separation performance.

[0016] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dehumidification device and its manufacturing method. The dehumidification device utilizes a vacuum pump to generate a pressure difference between the inside and outside of a membrane, thereby enabling water vapor in the air passing through the dehumidification module to move into the hollow interior of the membrane.

[0017] Technical solutions to the problem

[0018] The dehumidification module of this invention may include a dehumidification component made of a membrane that contacts humidified air, thereby increasing the contact surface area between humidified air and the dehumidification component and improving moisture separation performance.

[0019] The dehumidification module is configured as an independent dehumidification module consisting of a plurality of fixed hollow fiber membranes having a first size (diameter) forming a bundle, thereby facilitating the manufacture of the dehumidification module without having to fix the hollow fiber membranes one by one.

[0020] The dehumidification module is composed of a plurality of independent dehumidification modules and the plurality of independent membrane modules are fixed together to form an overall dehumidification module, thereby facilitating the manufacture of the dehumidification module.

[0021] The independent dehumidification module is configured to have a length in the direction from the first end cover to the second end cover, and a plurality of membrane modules are separated from each other and densely arranged, thereby exhibiting the effect of preventing air from bypassing the dehumidification module and reducing air pressure loss.

[0022] In particular, the independent dehumidification module is arranged in the space between two other independent dehumidification modules adjacent to it, and the plurality of independent dehumidification modules are arranged in a zigzag direction, thereby increasing the contact surface area of ​​air with the independent dehumidification modules.

[0023] The dehumidification module can be arranged such that the direction in which air flows into the dehumidification module is perpendicular to the length direction of the dehumidification module. The moisture separated in the dehumidification module can be discharged along the length direction of the dehumidification module, thus improving the moisture separation performance.

[0024] In one aspect of the invention, the dehumidification device may include: a plurality of dehumidification modules, each comprising a dehumidification component made of a plurality of hollow fiber membranes and a first fixing portion for fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to separate moisture from humid air; a first end cap disposed on a first end side of the dehumidification module, forming a connection port for discharging the separated moisture; a second end cap disposed on a second end side of the dehumidification module for covering the dehumidification module; and a second fixing portion supported on the first end cap for fixing the plurality of dehumidification modules.

[0025] The first fixing portion may include a first potting portion formed by curing an independent potting liquid, so as to enable the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to be bonded to each other.

[0026] The second fixing part may include a second potting part formed by curing the integral potting liquid, so as to enable the plurality of dehumidification modules to be combined with each other.

[0027] The first fixing part or the second fixing part may be formed by curing a potting liquid, which may be made of polyurethane or epoxy resin material.

[0028] The end face of the first fixing part can be formed to expose the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the outside, and the first end cap or the second end cap can be arranged to cover the exposed surface.

[0029] The end face of the second fixing part can be formed to expose the ends of the plurality of dehumidification modules to the outside, and the first end cover or the second end cover can be arranged to cover the exposed surface.

[0030] The plurality of dehumidification modules can be arranged in multiple levels to form a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns.

[0031] The first fixing part can be arranged to be inserted into the second fixing part so that the second fixing part surrounds the outer surface of the first fixing part.

[0032] It may also include a panel disposed between the first end cap and the second end cap, and covering at least one side of the plurality of dehumidification modules.

[0033] The panel may include a first panel and a second panel, and the plurality of dehumidification modules may be arranged between the first panel and the second panel.

[0034] The dehumidification component can be configured into a bundle of at least dozens of hollow fiber membranes.

[0035] The hollow fiber membrane can have a diameter of less than 450 μm, and the dehumidification component can have a diameter in the range of 4 to 8 cm.

[0036] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a dehumidification device may include: disposing a dehumidification component composed of a plurality of hollow fiber membranes on a first filling cap to separate moisture from humid air, and supplying a first filling liquid to the first filling cap to form a first filling portion of an independent dehumidification module; disposing the independent dehumidification module on a second filling cap and supplying a second filling liquid to the second filling cap to form a second filling portion of an integral dehumidification module; and attaching an end cap to the integral dehumidification module.

[0037] The feature is that the independent dehumidification module is a module in which the first potting portion is provided on both sides of the dehumidification component.

[0038] The feature is that the overall dehumidification module is a module in which the second potting part is provided on both sides of a plurality of independent dehumidification modules.

[0039] The first potting cap may include an insertion portion for providing a plurality of the dehumidifying components; the step of forming the first potting portion of the independent dehumidifying module may include the step of forming the first potting portion by connecting a plurality of independent dehumidifying modules to each other.

[0040] The feature is that it may further include the step of cutting the plurality of independent dehumidification modules that are connected to each other; and the cut plurality of independent dehumidification modules are disposed on the second filling cap.

[0041] The step of attaching end caps to the overall dehumidification module may include attaching a first end cap and a second end cap to both sides of the overall dehumidification module.

[0042] The manufacturing method may further include the step of setting a first panel and a second panel between the integral dehumidification module to prevent air from bypassing the integral dehumidification module and leaking to the side of the integral dehumidification module.

[0043] Invention Effects

[0044] According to embodiments of the present invention, moisture in the air can be selectively separated by a dehumidification module including a membrane, even without driving a refrigeration cycle, thereby achieving constant temperature dehumidification without raising the temperature of the indoor space.

[0045] According to embodiments of the present invention, dehumidification can be performed via a dehumidification module without the need for stabilization time in the refrigeration cycle, thus shortening the dehumidification time.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidification module utilizing a membrane (hollow fiber membrane) is provided, thereby increasing the contact surface area between air and the dehumidification component.

[0047] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes with very small diameters are bundled together and encapsulated once using a first encapsulation cap, thereby enabling the easy manufacture of independent dehumidification modules.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of independent dehumidification modules are re-filled using a second filling cap, thereby making it easy to manufacture an integral dehumidification module.

[0049] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of independent dehumidification modules are arranged between a first end cap and a second end cap to generate airflow around the plurality of independent dehumidification modules, thereby increasing the contact surface area of ​​air with the membrane module.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of independent dehumidification modules with small diameters are arranged, and an airflow path can be formed through the space between the plurality of independent dehumidification modules, thereby reducing pressure loss when air passes through the membrane module.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first direction of the intake flow of the air to be dehydrated is orthogonal to the second direction of the flow of the separated water vapor, thereby improving the moisture separation performance.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a pressure difference is generated between the inside and outside of the membrane using a vacuum pump, thereby enabling water vapor in the air passing through the dehumidification module to easily move into the hollow interior of the membrane. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the dehumidification device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 Sectional view of section 13-13.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the state in which the independent dehumidification module of an embodiment of the present invention is installed in the first filling cap.

[0056] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the first potting cap according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 5-5 sectional view.

[0058] Figure 6 It is along Figure 2 Sectional view of section 6-6.

[0059] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the state in which a plurality of independent dehumidification modules of an embodiment of the present invention are installed between a plurality of first filling caps.

[0060] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the state after a plurality of independent dehumidification modules of an embodiment of the present invention have performed one filling operation, and the plurality of first filling caps have been separated.

[0061] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the state after the potted plurality of independent dehumidification modules have been separated by cutting.

[0062] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the state of secondary filling of the plurality of independent dehumidification modules using a second filling cap.

[0063] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 A sectional view cut off at section 11-11.

[0064] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating a dehumidification module after secondary potting of a plurality of independent dehumidification modules according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the bottom surface configuration of the dehumidification module after secondary potting according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a dehumidification device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the airflow and the flow of separated water vapor in the dehumidification device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when adding reference numerals to the constituent elements of the various drawings, even if the same constituent element is shown in different drawings, it should be labeled as similarly as possible. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related well-known structures or functions will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0069] Furthermore, when describing the constituent elements of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the constituent elements from other constituent elements, and the nature, order, or sequence of the constituent elements are not limited by these terms. It should be understood that if any constituent element is described as being "connected," "combined," or "coupled" to another constituent element, then although the constituent element may be directly connected or coupled to another constituent element, each constituent element may also be "connected," "combined," or "coupled" to another constituent element.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the dehumidification device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 Sectional view of section 13-13.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The dehumidifier 10 of this embodiment of the invention may have a polyhedral shape. As an example, the width W1 of the dehumidifier 10 in the first direction may be greater than the width W2 in the second direction.

[0072] As an example, the first direction can define the height of the dehumidification device 10, which can correspond to the length direction of the dehumidification module 120.

[0073] The second direction defines the lateral direction of the dehumidifier 10. The width W2 of the second direction defines the lateral width of the intake area where air is drawn into the dehumidifier 10.

[0074] The width W1 of the dehumidifier 10 in the first direction may be the same as or different from the width W3 of the dehumidifier 10 in the third direction. The third direction defines the front-to-back direction of the dehumidifier 10. Figure 1 The diagram shows that the width W1 of the first direction is greater than the width W3 of the third direction, but it is not necessarily limited to this.

[0075] The front-to-back direction of the dehumidifier 10 can be understood as the direction in which air is drawn in and expelled.

[0076] The width W3 in the third direction can correspond to the length of the column in the front-to-back direction of the plurality of dehumidifying components 120. The size of the width W3 in the third direction can be adjusted according to the dehumidification capacity of the dehumidifying device.

[0077] The direction in which the air drawn into the dehumidifier 10 is expelled and the direction in which the separated moisture is discharged can be different from each other.

[0078] The third direction can be orthogonal to the first direction. For example, the third direction can be... Figure 1 The first direction can be the front-back direction of the dehumidifier 10 based on the first direction. Figure 1 The vertical direction of the dehumidifier 10 is referenced. As described above, the first and second directions are orthogonal to each other, thereby improving the moisture separation performance in the dehumidifier (see reference). Figure 15 ).

[0079] The dehumidification device 10 may include a dehumidification module 120 for removing moisture from the humid air drawn into the dehumidification module 10.

[0080] The dehumidification module 120 can extend from the first end cap 110 toward the second end cap 115 to have a length in a first direction (vertical direction).

[0081] The dehumidification module 120 may have a cylindrical shape, with a relatively long length and an outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface may form a contact surface for the supply of humidified air.

[0082] The dehumidification module 120 can be provided in multiple units, and the multiple dehumidification modules 120 can be arranged in multiple levels so that they can be arranged relatively densely within the cover 100.

[0083] As an example, the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can be arranged in a multi-level direction from one end of the dehumidification device 10 to the other end, that is, the second direction. As an example, a plurality of dehumidification modules can be arranged in a first level, a plurality of dehumidification modules in a second level, and a plurality of dehumidification modules in a third level.

[0084] From another perspective, the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can be arranged in multiple levels along the direction from the front end to the rear end of the dehumidification device 10, that is, along the third direction.

[0085] exist Figure 1 In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals are used to indicate that the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 includes a first dehumidification module 120a, a second dehumidification module 120b, and a third dehumidification module 120c. However, if... Figure 1 As shown, there can be more than dozens of dehumidification modules 120.

[0086] According to the arrangement of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 as described above, by arranging one dehumidification module 120 in the space between two other adjacent dehumidification modules, it is possible to effectively arrange the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 in the internal space of the enclosure 100.

[0087] Furthermore, the humid air drawn into the dehumidification device 10 can easily come into contact with the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 and have its moisture separated without bypassing them.

[0088] The dehumidification module 120 may include a dehumidification component 121 capable of selectively separating moisture from humid air.

[0089] The dehumidification component 121 may include a membrane.

[0090] The dehumidification component 121 may include a polymer membrane fiber 123 with a hollow fiber structure that has excellent selectivity for moisture (see reference). Figure 6 The polymer membrane fiber 123 can be cut to a specified length for use. The polymer membrane fiber can be referred to as a "hollow fiber membrane".

[0091] The polymer membrane fiber 123 may have a diameter of less than 450 μm, for example, having a diameter of about 400 to 420 μm, and is made of polysulfone or polypropylene.

[0092] A coating layer may be provided on the surface of the polymer membrane fiber 123 to improve the selectivity of moisture in the air. The coating layer may be composed of polyamide.

[0093] The polymer membrane fiber 123 can be configured as a plurality of fibers.

[0094] The dehumidification module 120 may further include a first fixing part 150 (see reference) for fixing the polymer membrane fibers composed of the plurality of fibers. Figure 7 ).

[0095] The first fixing part 150 can be filled into the first potting cap 200 in liquid form (see reference). Figure 3 The internal curing of the filling cap secures the plurality of dehumidifying components 121. The filling cap can be removed after the liquid substance has cured. For example, the first fixing part 150 can be made of polyurethane or epoxy resin.

[0096] The first fixing part 150 can be named "first potting part".

[0097] The first fixing part 150 can fix the dehumidification component by filling the space between the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123, and the end of the dehumidification component 121 can be exposed outside the first fixing part 150.

[0098] The first fixing part 150 may include a side fixing part 150a for fixing one end of the dehumidifying member 121 (see reference). Figure 9 ) and the other side fixing part 150b for fixing the other end (see reference) Figure 9 ).

[0099] The first fixing parts 150a and 150b can be understood as fixing parts formed during a potting process.

[0100] The hollow fiber membrane 123 has a very small diameter and weak strength, making it difficult to modularize by potting individual hollow fiber membranes. Therefore, by constructing a bundle of hollow fiber membranes 123 and fixing the bundle of dehumidifying components 121 using the first fixing parts 150a and 150b, it is possible to manufacture an independent dehumidifying module (membrane module).

[0101] Therefore, it can be Figure 1 Each dehumidification module 120 shown is named "Independent Dehumidification Module (Membrane Module)".

[0102] The dehumidification device 10 may include second fixing portions 140 disposed at both ends of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120. The second fixing portions 140 may include a fixing portion 140a disposed at the lower end of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 (see reference). Figure 12 ) and a fixing part 140b located on the other side of the upper end of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 (see reference ) Figure 12 ).

[0103] The second fixing parts 140a and 140b may be used to fill the second potting cap 300 (see reference). Figure 10 The portion formed by the curing of the potting fluid after it has been filled.

[0104] That is, the second fixing parts 140a and 140b, as the parts formed by arranging a plurality of dehumidification modules 120 on the second filling cap 300 and allowing the filling liquid to flow in, can be understood as fixing parts that can constitute the entire module.

[0105] As an example, the second fixing part 140 may be made of polyurethane or epoxy resin material. The second fixing part 140 may be named "second potting part".

[0106] The assembly of a plurality of dehumidification modules 120 combined by the second fixing parts 140a and 140b can be named "integrated dehumidification module (membrane module)".

[0107] The dehumidification device 10 may further include end caps 110 and 115 that support the dehumidification module 120. The end caps 110 and 115 may support both sides of the dehumidification module 120, namely, the upper end and the lower end.

[0108] The end caps 110 and 115 may include a first end cap 110 supporting one side (lower end) of the dehumidification module 120 and a second end cap 115 supporting the other side (upper end) of the dehumidification module 120.

[0109] The first end cap 110 and the second end cap 115 can define the lower and upper ends of the airflow path through the dehumidification module 120.

[0110] The first end cap 110 may include a connection to a vacuum pump 500 (see reference). Figure 15 The vacuum pump and the connection port 114 can be connected by a connecting pipe 510 (see reference 114). Figure 15 )connect.

[0111] As an example, the connection port 114 can be formed on any one of the four side walls of the first end cover 110. However, it is not limited to this; the connection port 114 can also be formed on the bottom wall of the first end cover 110.

[0112] Water vapor discharged through connection port 114 can be drawn into a vacuum pump, where it undergoes high-pressure compression and transforms into water, which is then stored in a water tank (not shown). Alternatively, water vapor discharged from the vacuum pump can be condensed into water through an additional sensible heat exchanger and stored in a water tank.

[0113] The first end cap 110 may have a tray shape with an open top.

[0114] A first recess 113 may be formed inside the first end cap 110. The first recess 113 may be formed to be recessed from the upper end of the first end cap 110 downwards, forming an inner space of the first end cap 110.

[0115] The first recess 113 can form a space for high-humidity air (water vapor) containing the moisture separated by the plurality of dehumidification modules 120.

[0116] At least a portion of the second fixing part 140 can be accommodated inside the first recess 113.

[0117] The first end cap 110 may include a first support boss 112 that supports the lower ends of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120. The first support boss 112 may protrude from the upper inner circumferential surface of the first end cap 110 and support the lower edge of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120.

[0118] The second end cap 115 may have a tray shape with an open bottom.

[0119] A second recess 116 may be formed inside the second end cap 115. The second recess 116 may be formed to be recessed from the lower end of the second end cap 115 upwards, forming an inner space of the second end cap 115.

[0120] By providing a first end cap 110 and a second end cap 115 in a closed manner on both sides of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120, a negative pressure can be formed inside the hollow interior of the dehumidification component 121.

[0121] The dehumidification device 10 may be connected to a vacuum pump 500 (see reference). Figure 15 If the vacuum pump 150 is driven, a pressure difference is generated between the outside and inside of the dehumidification component 121, and a negative pressure lower than the external pressure can be formed inside the dehumidification component 121.

[0122] Therefore, when humid air comes into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the dehumidifying component, the moisture contained in the humid air is adsorbed onto the surface of the outer peripheral surface. After diffusion, the adsorbed moisture detaches from the surface, thus selectively separating from the air. The separated moisture can flow along the hollow internal space of the dehumidifying component.

[0123] At this time, the first end cap 110 and the second end cap 115 can be arranged to cover the two ends of the dehumidification component 121, thereby facilitating the formation of negative pressure inside the dehumidification component 121.

[0124] At least a portion of the second fixing part 140 can be accommodated inside the second recess 116.

[0125] The second end cap 115 may include a second support boss 117 that supports the upper end of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120. The second support boss 117 may protrude from the lower inner circumferential surface of the second end cap 115 and support the upper edge of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120.

[0126] The dehumidification device 10 may include panels 131 and 135 disposed on both sides of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120. The panels 131 and 135 may include a first panel 131 disposed on one side of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 and a second panel 135 disposed on the other side.

[0127] The plurality of dehumidification modules 120 may be arranged between the first panel 131 and the second panel 135. The first panel 131 and the second panel 135 may be arranged adjacent to the plurality of dehumidification modules 120, thereby preventing air from bypassing the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 and leaking to the side.

[0128] Furthermore, the first panel 131 and the second panel 135 can prevent external air from unnecessarily flowing into the sides of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120.

[0129] The first panel 131 and the second panel 135 may be disposed between the first end cap 110 and the second end cap 115. Specifically, one end of the first panel 131 and the second panel 135 may be supported on the first end cap 110, and the first panel 131 and the second panel 135 may extend from the first end cap 110 to the second end cap 115.

[0130] The other end of the first panel 131 and the second panel 135 can support the second end cap 115.

[0131] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the state in which the independent dehumidification module of an embodiment of the present invention is installed in the first sealing cap. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the first potting cap according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 Sectional view of section 5-5. Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 Sectional view of section 6-6.

[0132] Reference Figures 3 to 6 In this embodiment of the invention, the dehumidification component 121 can be formed by a bundle of multiple hollow fiber membranes 123.

[0133] As an example, the hollow fiber membrane 123 may have a diameter of approximately 400–420 μm, and the hollow fiber membrane 123 may be formed by aggregating tens or hundreds of membranes together to constitute the dehumidification component 121. The diameter of the dehumidification component 121 may be formed to be several centimeters, for example, in the range of approximately 4–8 cm.

[0134] Although not disclosed separately in the accompanying drawings, the outer surface of the dehumidifying member 121 may also include a packaging member surrounding the dehumidifying member 121 to maintain the shape of the dehumidifying member 121.

[0135] The dehumidification component 121 can be readily configured to include a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 forming a bundle, through the packaging component.

[0136] The packaging component can be made of resin material, which has strong water resistance and can inhibit bacterial growth or mold formation. Furthermore, the packaging component can block large dust particles in the air and perform the function of protecting the dehumidifying component 121. As an example, the packaging component can be made of polypropylene material.

[0137] The packaging component may be configured to include a plurality of small through-holes to allow humid air to pass through. As an example, the packaging component may be configured as a mesh type.

[0138] In order to secure the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123, a single filling process can be performed using the dehumidifying member 121 of the first filling cap 200.

[0139] The first potting cap 200 may include a cap body 210 having a rod shape.

[0140] The cover body 210 may include an insertion portion 220 for receiving an end of the dehumidifying member 121. The insertion portion 220 may be configured to be recessed from the outer surface of the cover body 210.

[0141] The insertion portion 220 can be formed in a plurality of forms, allowing a plurality of dehumidifying components 121 to be inserted. The plurality of insertion portions 220 can be arranged along the length direction of the cover body 210 and formed separately from each other.

[0142] The plurality of insertion portions 220 may be arranged in a direction from one end of the first potting cap 200 toward the other end.

[0143] The cap body 210 may further include a connecting groove 230, which connects the plurality of insertion portions 220 and forms a flow path through which the potting liquid supplied to the first potting cap 200 flows.

[0144] A dehumidifying component 121 can be inserted into the insertion portion 220 of the first filling cap 200. The insertion depth Dp1 of the dehumidifying component 121 can be less than 10% of the length of the dehumidifying component 121.

[0145] Each of the plurality of insertion portions 220 may be provided with a dehumidifying member 121.

[0146] With the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 disposed on the first filling cap 200, if filling liquid (A) is supplied from one end of the first filling cap 200, the filling liquid will flow sequentially into the plurality of insertion portions 220 (B) through the connecting groove 230.

[0147] At this time, the potting fluid can be supplied with the first potting cap 200 tilted downward toward the other end, so that the potting fluid can easily flow in the direction from one end of the first potting cap 200 to the other end.

[0148] As an example, the first filling cap 200 can be disposed on a support member S having an inclined surface. The inclined surface F of the support member S can be inclined at a set angle θ. The set angle θ can be approximately 10°.

[0149] As another example, the first filling cap 200 may also be disposed on a movable track, and the filling fluid is supplied to the plurality of insertion portions 220 as the first filling cap 200 moves on the track.

[0150] After the potting fluid is supplied, it solidifies over time to form the first fixing part 150 (see reference). Figure 7 One side portion of each of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 constituting the dehumidification member 121 by the first fixing part 150 can be fixed to each other.

[0151] After the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 form a first fixing part 150a on one side of the first fixing part 150, the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 can be flipped and the above process can be performed again, thereby forming a second fixing part 150b of the first fixing part 150 on the other side of the plurality of dehumidifying components 121.

[0152] The potting fluid supplied to form the first fixing part 150 may be named "independent potting fluid" or "first potting fluid".

[0153] The manufacturing process will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0154] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the state in which a plurality of independent dehumidification modules of an embodiment of the present invention are installed between a plurality of first sealing caps. Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the state after a plurality of independent dehumidification modules of an embodiment of the present invention have performed one filling operation, and the plurality of first filling caps have been separated. Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the state after the plurality of individually sealed dehumidification modules have been separated by cutting. Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the state of secondary filling of the plurality of independent dehumidification modules using a second filling cap. Figure 11 This is a top view showing the plurality of independent dehumidification modules fixed by fixing parts after the second filling cap has been separated. Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating a dehumidification module after secondary potting of a plurality of independent dehumidification modules according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the bottom surface configuration of the dehumidification module after secondary potting according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] First refer to Figure 7 In this embodiment of the invention, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 can be formed into a bundle to constitute a dehumidification component 121.

[0156] The dehumidification component 121 can be fixed by the first fixing parts 150a and 150b formed by the first filling caps 200a and 200b.

[0157] The first filling caps 200a and 200b may include a side filling cap 200a for forming a side fixing portion 150a on one side of the dehumidifying member 121 and a side filling cap 200b for forming a side fixing portion 150b on the other side of the dehumidifying member 121.

[0158] The plurality of dehumidifying components 121 can be disposed on a side-sealing cap 200a. Specifically, one side portion of the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 can be inserted into the insertion portion 220 of the side-sealing cap 200a.

[0159] A potting solution is supplied to the one-sided potting cap 200a, and the supplied potting solution flows into the plurality of insertion portions 220 through the connecting groove 230. During the curing process of the potting solution supplied to the plurality of insertion portions 220, a one-sided fixing portion 150a can be formed, and one side of the dehumidifying member 121 inserted into the insertion portion 220 can be firmly fixed by the one-sided fixing portion 150a.

[0160] The plurality of dehumidifying components 121 can be flipped and disposed on the other side of the filling cap 200b. Specifically, the other side of the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 can be inserted into the insertion portion 220 of the other side of the filling cap 200b.

[0161] A potting solution is supplied to the other side of the potting cap 200a, and the supplied potting solution flows into the plurality of insertion portions 220 through the connecting groove 230. During the curing process of the potting solution supplied to the plurality of insertion portions 220, a fixing portion 150b can be formed on the other side, and the other side of the dehumidifying member 121 inserted into the insertion portion 220 can be firmly fixed by the fixing portion 150b.

[0162] Figure 7 The diagram shows the state in which both sides of the dehumidification module 120 are inserted into a one-side potting cap 200a and a other-side potting cap 200b, forming a first fixing part 150.

[0163] Once the first fixing portions 150a and 150b are formed, the one-side potting cap 200a and the other-side potting cap 200b can be separated. The materials of the one-side potting cap 200a and the other-side potting cap 200b can be made of materials that are easily separable from the first fixing portions 150a and 150b. As an example, the one-side potting cap 200a and the other-side potting cap 200b can be made of polypropylene.

[0164] Figure 8 The diagram shows a state in which a side fixing part 150a and a side fixing part 150b are formed on one side and the other side of a plurality of dehumidification modules 120 after the side potting cap 200a and the other side potting cap 200b have been removed.

[0165] Using the connecting grooves 230 formed on the one-side potting cap 200a and the other-side potting cap 200b, the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can be connected to each other by the connecting parts 155.

[0166] The connecting portion 155 can be configured to connect a plurality of one-side fixing portions 150a or a plurality of other-side fixing portions 150b to each other.

[0167] The connecting portion 155 can be cut to separate a plurality of dehumidification modules 120. Each of the cut dehumidification modules 120 can constitute an "independent dehumidification module". Figure 9 This shows the state of manufacturing multiple independent dehumidification modules.

[0168] The end face of the dehumidification module 120, which has the fixing part 150a on one side and the fixing part 150b on the other side, can be formed to form an exposed surface that exposes the ends 123a of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 to the outside.

[0169] The end 123a of the hollow fiber membrane 123 formed on one side fixing portion 150a can communicate with the internal space of the first end cap 110. The end 123a of the hollow fiber membrane 123 formed on the other side fixing portion 150b can communicate with the internal space of the second end cap 115.

[0170] The end portion 123a is in fluid communication with the hollow interior of the hollow fiber membrane 123. Therefore, when the vacuum pump 500 is running, negative pressure (vacuum pressure) can easily act on the internal spaces of the first end cap 110, the second end cap 115, and the hollow interior of the hollow fiber membrane 123.

[0171] To ensure that the end portion 123a protrudes outward, the end faces of the one-sided fixing portion 150a and the other-sided fixing portion 150b may be thinly cut after the one-sided fixing portion 150a and the other-sided fixing portion 150b are formed.

[0172] Figure 10 The diagram shows a state in which a second fixing part 140 is formed by the second filling cap 300 to fix the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 to each other.

[0173] Can Figure 9 Multiple dehumidification modules 120 manufactured in the middle are disposed on the second potting cap 300.

[0174] The second filling cap 300 may have a tray shape with one end open and a plurality of sidewalls.

[0175] One side of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 may be located inside the second potting cap 300, in which case potting fluid may be supplied to the interior of the second potting cap 300. The amount of potting fluid supplied may be an amount corresponding to the height of the side wall of the second potting cap 300 or a slightly less amount.

[0176] If the supplied potting solution cures, a second fixing part 140 can be formed. That is, a side fixing part 140a of the second fixing parts 140 can be formed on one side of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120.

[0177] After the one-sided fixing portion 140a is formed, the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 can be flipped over and placed on the additional second filling cap 300. The second filling cap used to form the one-sided fixing portion 140a can be named "one-sided filling cap", and the additional second filling cap 300 can be named "other-sided filling cap".

[0178] Specifically, the other side of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 may be located inside the other side potting cap 300, in which case potting fluid can be supplied to the interior of the other side potting cap 300. The amount of potting fluid supplied may be an amount corresponding to the height of the side wall of the other side potting cap 300 or a slightly less amount.

[0179] If the supplied potting fluid solidifies, a second fixing portion 140 can be formed. That is, another fixing portion 140b of the second fixing portion 140 can be formed on the other side of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120.

[0180] The potting fluid supplied to form the second fixing part 140 may be named "integral potting fluid" or "second potting fluid".

[0181] The second fixing portion 140 can be arranged to surround the outer surface of the first fixing portion 150. That is, the integral potting liquid flows in in a manner that contacts the outer surface of the first fixing portion 150, and if the integral potting liquid solidifies, it will be fixed to the outer surface of the first fixing portion 150.

[0182] From another perspective, it can be understood that the first fixing part 150 is arranged to be inserted into the second fixing part 140.

[0183] Figure 12 The diagram shows the state after one side fixing part 140a and the other side fixing part 140b are formed on both sides of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120, and the state after one side filling cap 300 and the other side filling cap 300 are removed.

[0184] The materials of the one-side potting cap 300 and the other-side potting cap 300 can be made of materials that are easy to separate from the second fixing parts 140a and 140b. As an example, the one-side potting cap 300 and the other-side potting cap 300 can be made of polypropylene.

[0185] The ends 126a and 126b of the dehumidification module 120, which have the one-side fixing portion 140a and the other-side fixing portion 140b, can be exposed to the outside. The ends 126a and 126b may include a first end 126a formed on one side of the dehumidification module 120 and a second end 126b formed on the other side of the dehumidification module 120.

[0186] The first end 126a can form the first exposed surface of the dehumidification module 120, and the second end 126b can form the second exposed surface of the dehumidification module 120.

[0187] Figure 12 The assembly of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 shown can constitute an "integrated dehumidification module".

[0188] A first end cap 110 may be attached to the lower side of the overall dehumidification module, and a second end cap 115 may be attached to the upper side of the overall dehumidification module.

[0189] Reference Figure 11 The dehumidification module 120 can be provided in multiple ways, and the multiple dehumidification modules 120 can be arranged in multiple levels to be arranged relatively densely.

[0190] As an example, the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can be arranged to form a plurality of rows along the second direction (left-right direction). The plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can also be arranged to form a plurality of columns along the third direction (front-back direction).

[0191] According to the arrangement of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 as described above, by arranging any one dehumidification module 120 in the space between two other adjacent dehumidification modules, the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can be arranged effectively even within a limited volume.

[0192] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention. (Refer to...) Figure 14 The manufacturing method of the dehumidification device 10 is explained in detail.

[0193] Prepare a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 with very small diameters, and bundle the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 together and equip them with a dehumidification member 121.

[0194] Although the hollow fiber membrane 123 is too thin to be easy to handle, the bundle-shaped dehumidification member 121 has a diameter that is small enough to be gripped by hand, and is therefore easy to handle (S11).

[0195] The bundle-shaped dehumidifying member 121 can be arranged on the first filling cap 200, and an independent filling liquid can be supplied to the interior of the first filling cap 200. The first filling cap 200 may include a side filling cap 200a and a side filling cap 200b, so that filling liquid can be supplied to one side and the other side of the dehumidifying member 121 respectively.

[0196] Independent potting liquid can be supplied to both ends of the dehumidification member 121 using the one-side potting cap 200a and the other-side potting cap 200b, and the independent potting liquid can be cured. The cured independent potting liquid can form first fixing parts 150a, 150b that can fix the two sides of the plurality of hollow fiber membranes 123 (S12).

[0197] After the first fixing portions 150a and 150b are formed, the first filling cap 200 can be separated, and the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 connected to each other by the connecting portion 155 can be separated. As an example, the connecting portion 155 can be cut off by a cutting method to separate the plurality of dehumidifying components 121 independently.

[0198] First fixing portions 150a and 150b can be formed on both sides of the separated dehumidifying component 121, and an exposed surface can be formed at the end of the dehumidifying component 121. Each dehumidifying component 121 provided with the first fixing portions 150a and 150b can constitute an "independent dehumidifying module" (S13).

[0199] The independent dehumidification module can be arranged in the second filling cap 300, and the entire filling liquid can be supplied into the interior of the second filling cap 300. The second filling cap 300 may include a one-side filling cap 300 and a other-side filling cap 300, so as to supply filling liquid to one side and the other side of the dehumidification module 120 respectively.

[0200] The integral potting liquid can be supplied to both ends of the dehumidification module 120 using the one-side potting cap 300 and the other-side potting cap 300, and the integral potting liquid can be cured. The cured integral potting liquid can form second fixing parts 140a, 140b on both sides of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 (S14).

[0201] The second sealing cap 300 can be separated after the second fixing parts 140a and 140b are formed. The ends of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120 connected by the second fixing parts 140a and 140b can form exposed surfaces to the outside. The plurality of dehumidification modules 120 provided with the second fixing parts 140a and 140b can constitute an "integrated dehumidification module".

[0202] A first end cap 110 and a second end cap 115 can be combined at the upper and lower ends of the overall dehumidification module, and panels 131 and 135 (S15) can be provided on both sides of the overall dehumidification module.

[0203] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the airflow and the flow of separated water vapor in the dehumidification device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0204] Reference Figure 15 If the fan 600 connected to the dehumidifier 10 is driven, humid air can be drawn into the interior of the dehumidifier 10, that is, into the multiple dehumidifier modules 120 (solid arrow). As an example, the fan 600 can be located on the discharge side of the dehumidifier 10.

[0205] The direction in which the humid air is drawn in can form the direction in which a plurality of dehumidification modules 120 extend, that is, the direction that intersects with the vertical direction (front and back direction).

[0206] The drawn-in humid air can come into contact with the dehumidification components 121 of the plurality of dehumidification modules 120. Moisture in the air in contact with the dehumidification components 121 can be adsorbed onto the dehumidification components 121 by the suction of the vacuum pump 500 and then released into the hollow interior of the dehumidification components 121. The air containing the moisture (water vapor) can flow downwards through the hollow interior of the dehumidification components 121.

[0207] Specifically, driven by the vacuum pump 500, a negative pressure lower than the external pressure can be formed inside the dehumidification member 121. As air passes through the dehumidification member 121, moisture contained in the air can come into contact with and be adsorbed by the surface of the dehumidification member 121. Furthermore, the adsorbed moisture diffuses and detaches from the surface, thus selectively separating from the humid air.

[0208] The water vapor can flow from the lower end of the dehumidification module 120 into the first recess 113 of the first end cover 110. Furthermore, the water vapor can be discharged to the outside of the dehumidification device 10 through the connection port 114 and drawn into the vacuum pump 500 through the connection pipe 510.

[0209] Water vapor can be compressed by the vacuum pump 500, and the water undergoing a phase change during the compression process can be stored in a water tank (not shown).

[0210] On the other hand, the air from which the moisture has been separated can flow backward and be discharged to the outside of the dehumidifier 10, and then be drawn into the fan 600.

[0211] According to the configuration of this dehumidification device 10, a plurality of dehumidification modules 120 can be densely arranged inside the housing 100 to increase the contact surface area between the dehumidification modules and the humid air, thereby improving dehumidification performance. Furthermore, it allows for easy manufacture of the dehumidification modules 120.

[0212] Industrial applicability

[0213] The dehumidification module of this invention includes a dehumidification component made of a membrane that contacts humidified air, thereby increasing the contact surface area between the humidified air and the dehumidification component and improving moisture separation performance. Therefore, it has significant industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A dehumidification device, wherein, include: A plurality of dehumidification modules, each comprising a dehumidification component made of a plurality of hollow fiber membranes and a first fixing part for fixing the plurality of hollow fiber membranes, to separate moisture from humid air; The first end cap is disposed on the first end side of the dehumidification module, forming a connection port for discharging the separated moisture. A second end cap is disposed on the second end side of the dehumidification module for covering the dehumidification module; as well as The second fixing part is supported on the first end cover and is used to fix the plurality of dehumidification modules.

2. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The first fixing part includes a first potting part formed by curing an independent potting liquid, so that the plurality of hollow fiber membranes can be bonded to each other.

3. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The second fixing part includes a second potting part formed by curing the integral potting liquid, so that the plurality of dehumidification modules can be combined with each other.

4. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The first fixing part or the second fixing part is formed by curing a potting liquid, which is made of polyurethane or epoxy resin material.

5. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The end face of the first fixing part forms an exposed surface that exposes the plurality of hollow fiber membranes to the outside, and the first end cap or the second end cap is arranged to cover the exposed surface.

6. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The end face of the second fixing part forms an exposed surface that exposes the ends of the plurality of dehumidification modules to the outside, and the first end cover or the second end cover is arranged to cover the exposed surface.

7. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of dehumidification modules are arranged in multiple levels to form a plurality of rows and columns.

8. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The first fixing part is arranged to be inserted into the second fixing part such that the second fixing part surrounds the outer surface of the first fixing part.

9. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a panel disposed between the first end cap and the second end cap, and covering at least one side of the plurality of dehumidification modules.

10. The dehumidification device according to claim 9, wherein, The panel includes a first panel and a second panel, and the plurality of dehumidification modules are arranged between the first panel and the second panel.

11. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The dehumidification component consists of at least several dozen hollow fiber membranes arranged in a bundle.

12. The dehumidification device according to claim 1, wherein, The hollow fiber membrane has a diameter of less than 450 μm, and the dehumidification component has a diameter in the range of 4 cm to 8 cm.

13. A method for manufacturing a dehumidification device, wherein, include: In order to separate moisture from humid air, a dehumidification component consisting of a plurality of hollow fiber membranes is disposed on a first potting cap, and a first potting liquid is supplied to the first potting cap to form a first potting section of an independent dehumidification module; The steps are as follows: placing the independent dehumidification module on the second filling cap and supplying the second filling liquid to the second filling cap to form the second filling part of the integral dehumidification module; and The step of attaching the end cap to the overall dehumidification module.

14. The method for manufacturing the dehumidification device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The independent dehumidification module is a module in which the first potting portion is provided on both sides of the dehumidification component.

15. The method for manufacturing the dehumidification device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The overall dehumidification module is a module in which the second potting section is provided on both sides of a plurality of independent dehumidification modules.

16. The method for manufacturing the dehumidification device according to claim 13, wherein, The first filling cap includes an insertion portion for accommodating a plurality of the dehumidifying components; The step of forming the first potting section of the independent dehumidification module includes the step of forming the first potting section by connecting a plurality of independent dehumidification modules to each other.

17. The method for manufacturing the dehumidification device according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes the step of cutting the plurality of independent dehumidification modules that are connected to each other; The second filling cap is equipped with a plurality of independently cut dehumidification modules.

18. The method for manufacturing the dehumidification device according to claim 13, wherein, The step of attaching end caps to the overall dehumidification module includes attaching a first end cap and a second end cap to both sides of the overall dehumidification module. The manufacturing method further includes the step of setting a first panel and a second panel between the integral dehumidification module to prevent air from bypassing the integral dehumidification module and leaking to the side of the integral dehumidification module.

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