System for regulating indoor humidity in an exhibition showcase

Abstract

System (100) for regulating the interior humidity in an exhibition showcase (V), comprising: a sensor system (110) with at least one sensor that detects the interior humidity; at least one controller (120) connected thereto; and at least one electrically operable ion membrane device (150) connected thereto, which is designed to extract moisture from the environment on one side of the ion membrane, hereinafter referred to as the dry side (TS), and to enrich the environment with moisture on the other side of the ion membrane, hereinafter referred to as the wet side (FS); characterized in that that the system (100) comprises a first ion membrane device (150) and a second ion membrane device (150*) which are connected to the controller (110) via connection means; that the control (120) is designed to control the two ion membrane devices (150, 150*) individually or jointly depending on the detected interior humidity; that two connector parts (140) are provided to each receive the connection means of one of the two ion membrane devices (150, 150*) and to connect them to the controller (110), wherein the connector parts (140) are arranged in an edge region of the display case (V) such that when the two ion membrane devices (150, 150*) are connected, two of their sides (TS; FT) are oriented towards the interior of the display case (V); wherein the connecting means and the connector parts (140) are designed such that each of the ion membrane devices (150, 150*) can be selectively inserted into the respective connector part (140) in one of two positions (A, B).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to the regulation of the interior humidity in an exhibition showcase, in particular to a system designed for this purpose and to an exhibition showcase equipped therewith.

[0002] Typical display cases often consist of a base and a glass-paned display case mounted on top, in which at least one exhibit is kept. Such display cases have been manufactured by the applicant for decades and are disclosed, for example, in DE 20 2013 102 868 U1.

[0003] To protect the exhibits and ensure their optimal preservation, display cases must be climate-controlled. Regulating the interior humidity of the display case (the humidity of the air or, more generally, the gas mixture within it) plays an important role.

[0004] For dehumidification, a hygroscopic material (preferably silica gel) is often used to remove moisture from the interior of the display case. This material is located in a drawer or container provided in the base, a so-called climate control compartment, into which a cassette containing conditioned silica gel can be inserted (see: https: / / llfa.de / klimatisierung / silikagel-e.html). The air exchange or air circulation between the climate control compartment and the interior of the display case occurs via natural convection or is realized by a circulation system, as disclosed, for example, in DE 20 2021 106 042 U1 or DE 10 2006 022 296 A1.

[0005] The use of hygroscopic material is primarily intended to dehumidify indoor air; it is less suitable for humidification, as the hygroscopic material can only release very limited amounts of moisture.

[0006] For effective humidity regulation, the gas mixture in the display case (air, purified and possibly enriched with nitrogen, noble gases, or similar) must be adjusted to an optimal indoor humidity level for the exhibit, depending on the current indoor humidity and, if applicable, the temperature. This is preferably achieved using devices or systems designed to dehumidify and / or humidify the prevailing gas mixture.

[0007] For several years now, systems with so-called electrically operated ion membrane devices have also been used to reduce indoor humidity. WO 2017 / 091785A1 describes such a system and its use in display cases.

[0008] The principle of such an electrically operated ion membrane device is used primarily for dehumidification and has been known for some time. It will be explained here using the Fig. 1: The device 150 essentially consists of a solid polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) equipped with a porous electrode (PE) on each side. As soon as a direct current is applied to the electrodes, an electrochemical process takes place that affects the water molecules in the room air as follows: On one side (here left) the water molecules H2O located at the anode electrode (+) decompose into their components, i.e. into two hydrogen atoms H and one oxygen atom O, and then the hydrogen atoms diffuse through the PEM membrane to the other side (cathode -), whereby on the (left) anode side now "excess" oxygen atoms remain, which in turn combine to form oxygen molecules O2. On the other (right) side, i.e. at the porous cathode electrode, the "separated" hydrogen atoms H escape and combine with oxygen atoms O, which in turn originate from the oxygen atoms O2 located on this (right) side, to form water molecules H2O. In this way, in the Fig. 1 shown representation on the left side fewer water molecules H2O than on the right side.

[0009] The humidity on the left side was reduced (hence also called the "dry side" TS); however, the humidity on the right side was increased (hence also called the "wet side" FS). Fig. The device shown in Figure 1 dehumidifies the left side TS and discharges the moisture to the right side FS. The device 150 can be controlled by means of a (in Fig. 1 not shown) sensors for measuring the current room humidity and an associated control system.

[0010] Thus, a system for regulating the interior humidity in an exhibition showcase is known, which system has the following components: a sensor system with at least one sensor that detects the interior humidity in the exhibition showcase; at least one control system connected thereto; and at least one electrically operable ion membrane device connected thereto, which is designed to extract moisture from the environment on one side of the ion membrane, also referred to here as the dry side (TS), and to enrich the environment with moisture on the other side of the ion membrane, also referred to here as the moist side (FS);

[0011] To regulate the humidity in the room, you could use the Fig. The device 150 shown in Figure 1 can be operated both as a dehumidifier and as a humidifier by reversing the polarity of the voltage applied to the electrodes. However, such a switching mode reverses the diffusion through the membrane upon polarity reversal, which in turn makes it difficult to quickly switch from "dehumidification" to "humidification." Furthermore, the membranes or ion membrane devices available on the market are mostly designed for "dehumidification" and are less suitable for use as "humidifiers," which in turn makes it difficult to regulate room humidity (temporary dehumidification and humidification).

[0012] Therefore, it is desirable to develop a system for regulating the humidity in an exhibition showcase that does not have the above-mentioned problems but rather overcomes them in an advantageous manner.

[0013] The problem is solved by a system having the features of claim 1 and by an exhibition showcase equipped therewith according to claim 6.

[0014] Accordingly, the claimed invention is characterized in that the system for regulating interior humidity comprises a first ion membrane device and a second ion membrane device, i.e., at least two ion membrane devices connected to the controller via connecting means; that the controller is configured to control the two ion membrane devices individually or jointly depending on the detected interior humidity;that two connector parts are provided to each receive the connection means of one of the two ion membrane devices and to connect it to the control system, wherein the connector parts are arranged in an edge region of the display case such that when the two ion membrane devices are connected, two of their sides are each oriented towards the interior of the display case, wherein the connection means and the connector parts are designed such that each of the ion membrane devices can be selectively plugged into the respective connector part in one of two positions;

[0015] Thus, a virtually plug-and-play arrangement or positioning of two ion membrane devices is implemented in the display case, allowing for multiple configurations for both controlled dehumidification and humidification in just a few simple steps. For example, one of the two ion membrane devices can serve for dehumidification by orienting its dry side toward the interior of the display case, while the other ion membrane device can serve for humidification by orienting its wet side toward the interior of the display case. The control system temporarily activates one or the other ion membrane device as needed or depending on the measured parameter, particularly humidity and temperature.

[0016] This allows switching between the ion membrane devices for "dehumidification" and "humidification" without electrical polarity reversal. Each ion membrane device can operate in its "normal" configuration, i.e., the polarity of the power supply does not need to be reversed; the ion membrane devices simply need to be arranged facing opposite one another, i.e., plugged into the connectors. Thus, by simply mechanically replugging the ion membrane devices (reorientation via plug & play), any of the following operating modes can be achieved: a) Two-mode operation: one device operates as a dehumidifier, the other as a humidifier; b) One-mode operation: both devices operate in the same mode, i.e., either as a dehumidifier or humidifier.

[0017] Because neither ion membrane device needs to be operated in reverse polarity mode, but both operate in normal mode (alternately), they can generally operate much more efficiently. Many of the ion membrane devices available on the market react sluggishly when electrically reversed, which makes efficient switching from one mode to the other difficult (see also the above explanations on Fig. 1).

[0018] As previously stated, the invention also makes it possible for both ion membrane devices to be configured for the same mode, e.g. for "dehumidification", i.e. to be positioned in the same orientation towards the interior of the display case. This means that the same operating mode can be carried out with two ion membrane devices, at least temporarily; this way, both devices support each other and the interior of the display case can be dehumidified or humidified with twice the power and efficiency. This is helpful when, for example, dehumidification inside the display case must be achieved as quickly as possible, such as after the display case has been opened. The same applies to situations in which the interior of the display case needs to be humidified quickly.

[0019] Finally, the invention also enables the electrical polarity reversal of individual ion membrane devices, which allows both operating modes to be implemented without mechanical reconnection (change of orientation), but this is associated with a certain inefficiency. Nevertheless, electrical polarity reversal is still possible, which makes the invention extremely flexible, allowing for virtually all operating options / configurations. The invention can operate without the use of recirculation systems (actively controlled air circulation) and / or active air conditioning systems, but can also be supplemented by such systems, particularly when very large interior volumes are to be air-conditioned.

[0020] The invention disclosed here also provides an exhibition showcase equipped with such a humidity control system.

[0021] Particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims: It is advantageous if the sensor system connected to the control system is located on or in the interior of the display case, with at least two sensors integrated into the sensor system to record parameters relating to at least the humidity and temperature of the gas mixture present in the interior. This is preferably a multi-sensor board whose sensors are in direct contact with the interior air. The sensors used are preferably RH sensors (room humidity), T sensors (temperature), and, if necessary, VOC sensors (Volatile Organic Compound Sensors) for measuring volatile organic compounds.

[0022] Preferably, the control system is equipped with a wireless communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth module) for exchanging data with a user's mobile device (especially a smartphone) regarding operating software (especially an operating app) installed on the device for operating and monitoring the control system. The user or operator (e.g., museum staff) can, among other things, monitor the system's operation and, if necessary, adjust the control system by changing parameters. They are also informed of any triggered alarms.

[0023] The controller can also be configured to function as a data logger, using memory and a processor with a time unit, to log input and output data from the controller and / or the data exchanged with the mobile device. This data can also be viewed via the user's app.

[0024] Furthermore, the controller can also be equipped with a battery buffer to maintain the processor operation as a data logger in the event of a power failure (mains or even UPS, see below).

[0025] The battery buffer is preferably also used to operate the processor's time unit as a real-time clock (RTC).

[0026] In addition, the system can also be equipped with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which supplies power to at least the control system and ion membrane devices in the event of a mains power failure, ideally for several hours (up to approx. 5 hours).

[0027] The invention is described in detail below using exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show the following schematic representations: Fig. Figure 1 illustrates the construction and operation of a typical ion membrane device; Fig. Figure 2 shows and illustrates a first embodiment of the invention in which a system with two ion membrane devices is installed in a display case; Fig. 3a / b illustrate a second embodiment of the invention;

[0028] The already described Fig. Figure 1 refers to the prior art and illustrates the construction and operation of a conventional, electrically operated ion membrane device 150, which essentially consists of a solid polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) provided with a porous electrode (PE) on each side. By applying a direct voltage, the previously described electrochemical process is initiated, which causes fewer water molecules (H2O) to be present on the "dry side" (TS) than on the "wet side" (FS). The device 150 thus acts like a dehumidifier in the direction of the arrows; in the opposite direction, like a humidifier, and can be Fig. 1 not shown) sensors and controls ensure actively controlled regulation of room humidity.

[0029] The Fig. 2 and 3a / b are described below to demonstrate that, according to the invention, an exhibition showcase V is equipped with a system 100 having at least two ion membrane devices, namely a first such device 150 and a second such device 150*. The devices are arranged and embedded in the floor BDN of the showcase V so that they are as invisible as possible to the viewer (museum visitor). A portion of the respective device 150 or 150* is located, together with the controller 120, in the base SL of the showcase. A sensor system 110 connected thereto protrudes from below from the floor BDN and into the interior of the showcase V.

[0030] The two ion membrane devices 150 and 150* are arranged in the lower edge area of the display case V in such a way that one of their sides is oriented towards the interior of the display case V, i.e. either the dry or the moist side (cf. Fig. 1). Each device is located in a matching connector part 140, which is embedded in the base BDN of the display case. The devices 150 and 150* have mechanical and electrical connection means (not shown) with which they are plugged into one of the connector parts 140, thus creating a mechanical connection (mounting) and electrical connection (power supply), preferably in the form of a plug-and-play solution, so that the devices 150 and 150* can be quickly inserted and, if necessary, their position / orientation can be changed.

[0031] In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3a is the first device 150 with its wet side FS (compare also with Fig. 1) is aligned to the interior of the showcase, while the other, second device 150* with its dry side TS (see also Fig. 1) is oriented toward the interior. If the respective device is now supplied with DC voltage (activated), the first device 150 functions as a humidifier, i.e., in mode "B," and the second device 150* functions as a dehumidifier, i.e., in mode "A." The controller 120 then temporarily activates one or the other device depending on the sensor data, so that the system 100 temporarily operates in dehumidifier mode "A" or humidifier mode "B."

[0032] The sensor system 110 comprises at least two sensors integrated on a circuit board (not shown here) for detecting parameters relating to at least the humidity and temperature of the gas mixture present in the interior. This is preferably a multi-sensor circuit board whose sensors are in direct contact with the interior air. The sensors used are preferably RH sensors (indoor humidity), T sensors (temperature), and possibly VOC sensors (Volatile Organic Compound Sensors) for measuring volatile organic compounds.

[0033] The controller 120 is equipped with a wireless communication module, in this case, a Bluetooth module, for exchanging data concerning operating software installed on the device, in this case a proprietary operating app, with a mobile device, in this case a user's smartphone SP, via Bluetooth BT for the purpose of operating and monitoring the controller 120. The user or operator (e.g., museum staff) can, among other things, monitor the operation of the system 100 and, if necessary, adapt the controller 120 by changing parameters. They are also informed of any triggered alarms.

[0034] Furthermore, the controller 120, using storage means and a processor (not shown) equipped with a time unit, is also capable of functioning as a data logger to log input and output data of the controller 120 and / or the data exchanged with the mobile terminal SP. This data can also be viewed via the user's app.

[0035] For this purpose, the controller 120 is equipped with a battery buffer (not shown) that maintains the processor operation as a data logger in the event of a power failure (mains or even UPS, see below).

[0036] The battery buffer is preferably also used to operate the processor's time unit as a real-time clock (RTC).

[0037] In addition, the system can also be equipped with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which supplies power to at least the controller 120 and the ion membrane devices 150, 150* in the event of a mains power failure, if possible for several hours (up to approximately 5 hours).

[0038] This mains power backup is provided separately from the battery backup and is implemented using a mini UPS module that can bridge power outages of up to five hours. This means that the humidification and dehumidification functions continue throughout this period. As soon as mains power is restored, the UPS fully recharges.

[0039] In Fig. 3b, the first device has now been inserted in reverse into the connector part 140, ie the first device, here designated 150', is now with its dry side TS (compare with Fig. 3a) directed towards the interior of the display case, i.e., the same as the second device 150*. This allows both devices 150' and 150* to operate as dehumidifiers (system mode "A"). This means that both devices support each other, and the interior of the display case can be dehumidified with twice the power and efficiency. This is helpful when, for example, dehumidification inside the display case needs to be achieved as quickly as possible, such as after the display case has been opened. The same applies to situations in which the interior of the display case needs to be humidified quickly; in this case, both devices simply need to be plugged into the connector parts 140 in reverse (position for mode "B").

[0040] The invention disclosed here provides a great variety / flexibility of configuration via Plug&Play, namely: a) for two-mode operation (either "A" or "B"), in which one device operates as a dehumidifier and the other as a humidifier (see Fig. 3a); b) for single-mode operation (‘A’ or ‘B’ only), where both devices operate in the same mode, i.e. either as a dehumidifier (see Fig. 3b) or as a humidifier (not shown).

[0041] Furthermore, the invention also enables the electrical polarity reversal of individual ion membrane devices, which allows both operating modes to be implemented without mechanical reconnection (reorientation change as described above), but this is associated with a certain inefficiency. Nevertheless, electrical polarity reversal is still possible, which makes the invention extremely flexible, allowing for virtually all operating options / configurations.

[0042] The invention can operate without the use of recirculation systems (actively controlled air circulation) and / or active air conditioning systems, but can also be supplemented by such systems, particularly when very large interior volumes are to be air-conditioned. List of reference symbols V Display case SL base BDN Soil BT Bluetooth connection SP Smartphone 100 System for regulating indoor humidity 110 Sensor technology 120 controller with processor and real-time clock (RTC) 125 Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) 140 connector part(s) 150, 150* Ion membrane device(s) TS “dry side” of the ion membrane device FS “wet side” of the ion membrane device QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 20 2013 102 868 U1

[0002] DE 20 2021 106 042 U1

[0004] DE 10 2006 022 296 A1

[0004] WO 2017 / 091785A1

[0007] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] https: / / llfa.de / klimatisierung / silikagel-e.html

[0004]

Claims

[1] System (100) for regulating the interior humidity in an exhibition showcase (V), comprising: a sensor system (110) with at least one sensor that detects the interior humidity; at least one controller (120) connected thereto; and at least one electrically operable ion membrane device (150) connected thereto, which is designed to extract moisture from the environment on one side of the ion membrane, hereinafter referred to as the dry side (TS), and to enrich the environment with moisture on the other side of the ion membrane, hereinafter referred to as the wet side (FS); characterized by , that the system (100) comprises a first ion membrane device (150) and a second ion membrane device (150*) which are connected to the controller (110) via connection means; that the control (120) is designed to control the two ion membrane devices (150, 150*) individually or jointly depending on the detected interior humidity; that two connector parts (140) are provided to each receive the connection means of one of the two ion membrane devices (150, 150*) and to connect them to the controller (110), wherein the connector parts (140) are arranged in an edge region of the display case (V) such that when the two ion membrane devices (150, 150*) are connected, two of their sides (TS; FT) are oriented towards the interior of the display case (V); wherein the connecting means and the connector parts (140) are designed such that each of the ion membrane devices (150, 150*) can be selectively inserted into the respective connector part (140) in one of two positions (A, B). [2] System (100) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the sensor system (110) is arranged on or in the interior of the display case (V), wherein at least two sensors are integrated in the sensor system (S) in order to detect parameters relating to at least the humidity and the temperature of the gas mixture in the interior. [3] System (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the controller (120) is equipped with a wireless communication module (BT) in order to exchange data with a mobile terminal (SP) of a user relating to an operating software (APP) installed on the terminal (SP) for operating and monitoring the controller (120). [4] System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , the controller (120) is designed by means of storage means and a processor provided with a time unit to operate as a data logger in order to log input and output data of the controller and / or the data exchanged with the mobile terminal. [5] System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , the controller (120) is equipped with a battery buffer to maintain processor operation as a data logger in the event of a power failure. [6] System (100) according to claim 5, characterized by that the battery buffer is designed to operate the processor's time unit as a real-time clock (RTC). [7] System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , the system (100) has an uninterruptible power supply (125) which, in the event of a mains power failure, supplies the power supply at least for the controller (120) and ion membrane devices (150; 150*). [8] Display cabinet (V) equipped with a system (100) for regulating the interior humidity according to one of the preceding claims.

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