Vehicle air conditioning system and use method of air conditioning device

Abstract

To provide a vehicle air conditioning system which enables smooth shifting from regeneration treatment to adsorption treatment.SOLUTION: A vehicle air conditioning system 100 includes: an air conditioning duct 10 through which air can flow; an air conditioning device 20 including a honeycomb structure 21 having an outer peripheral wall 23 and partition walls 26 disposed on an inner side of the outer peripheral wall 23 and defining a plurality of cells 25 each of which extends from a first end face 24a to a second end face 24b to form an air passage, and an adsorption layer 27 formed on surfaces of the partition walls 26 and containing an adsorbent, the air conditioning device 20 disposed in the air conditioning duct 10; and a control unit 30 capable of controlling a flow velocity of air flowing through the cells 25 of the air conditioning device 20. The control unit 30 performs control, at the ending of regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27 and / or during adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, so that a flow velocity of air observed when the adsorption layer 27 has a temperature higher than or equal to an adsorption temperature becomes higher than a flow velocity of air observed when the adsorption layer 27 has a temperature lower than the adsorption temperature.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle air conditioning system and a method for using an air conditioning device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a growing demand for improved cabin environments in automobiles and other vehicles. Specific demands include reducing CO2 emissions in the cabin to suppress driver drowsiness, controlling cabin humidity, and removing odorous components, allergy-inducing substances, and other harmful volatile components from the cabin. Ventilation is an effective solution to these demands, but it can significantly reduce heating energy in winter, resulting in reduced energy efficiency. This energy loss, particularly in battery electric vehicles (BEVs), poses a significant problem: the driving range is significantly reduced.

[0003] As a method for solving the above problem, Patent Document 1 proposes a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls arranged inside the outer peripheral wall that define a plurality of cells that form flow paths extending from one end face to the other end face, with at least the partition walls being made of a material that has PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) properties, and a heater element having a pair of electrodes provided at predetermined positions on the honeycomb structure and an adsorption layer (functional material-containing layer) on the surface of the partition walls that adsorbs water vapor, CO2, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2023 / 074202 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When the humidity inside the vehicle cabin is high, the moisture adsorbed in the adsorption layer easily becomes saturated, making it necessary to regenerate the adsorption layer and then repeatedly perform the adsorption process. In this case, a smooth transition from the regeneration process to the adsorption process is important for efficient dehumidification inside the vehicle cabin. However, simply using the heater element of Patent Document 1 makes it difficult to cool the adsorption layer that has been heated during the regeneration treatment, and therefore it takes a long time to transition to the adsorption treatment. The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a vehicle air conditioning system that allows a smooth transition from regeneration treatment to adsorption treatment, and a method for using an air conditioning device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present inventors have conducted extensive research into vehicle air conditioning systems equipped with air conditioning devices and have discovered that by controlling the air flow rate when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment so that it is greater than the air flow rate when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature, the adsorption layer can be rapidly cooled to a temperature at which the adsorbent can exert its adsorption capacity, thereby enabling a smooth transition from the regeneration treatment to the adsorption treatment, and have completed the present invention. That is, the present invention is exemplified as follows.

[0007] <1> an air conditioning duct through which air can circulate; an air conditioning device disposed in the air conditioning duct; a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer peripheral wall and defining a plurality of cells that serve as air flow paths extending from a first end face to a second end face; and an adsorption layer provided on a surface of the partition walls and containing an adsorbent; a control unit capable of controlling a flow rate of the air flowing through the cells of the air conditioning device; Equipped with and at a final stage of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, the control unit controls the flow velocity of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above an adsorption temperature so as to be greater than the flow velocity of the air when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature.

[0008] <2> The control of the air flow rate is performed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration process. <1> The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1.

[0009] <3> The end of the regeneration treatment is a period during the regeneration treatment that is within 1 / 4 of the regeneration treatment time from the end of the regeneration treatment. <1> The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1.

[0010] <4> The regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment are repeatedly performed. <1> ~ <3> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0011] <5> the ratio of the flow rate of the air when the adsorption bed is at or above the adsorption temperature to the flow rate of the air when the adsorption bed is below the adsorption temperature is 1.1 or more; <1> ~ <4> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0012] <6> the flow velocity of the air when the adsorption bed is at or above the adsorption temperature is 0.03 m / sec or more; <1> ~ <5> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0013] <7> the temperature of the adsorption layer is determined by determining in advance a relationship between the temperature of the adsorption layer and at least one condition parameter selected from the temperature of the honeycomb structure, the resistance value of the honeycomb structure, the current value of the honeycomb structure, the heating time of the honeycomb structure, the temperature of the air that has passed through the honeycomb structure, and the amount of components contained in the air that has passed through the honeycomb structure, and measuring the condition parameter. <1> ~ <6> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0014] <8> The air conditioning system further includes a fan disposed in the air conditioning duct, and the control unit controls the flow rate of the air by adjusting the rotation speed of the fan. <1> ~ <7> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0015] <9> the air conditioning duct is branched downstream of the air conditioning device into a first path through which the air flows into the vehicle compartment and a second path through which the air is discharged to the outside of the vehicle, and further includes a valve capable of switching the flow of the air between the first path and the second path. <1> ~ <8> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0016] <10> a power source for applying a voltage to the air conditioning device; <9> The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1.

[0017] <11> The control unit an adsorption process of turning off the applied voltage from the power supply and switching the valve so that the air flowing through the air conditioning duct passes through the first path; a regeneration process of turning on the applied voltage from the power supply and switching the valve so that the air flowing through the air conditioning duct passes through the second path; It is possible to <10> The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1.

[0018] <12> In the honeycomb structure, at least the partition walls are made of a material having PTC properties. <1> ~ <11> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0019] <13> The air-conditioning device further includes a pair of electrodes provided on the first end face and the second end face of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer peripheral wall of the honeycomb structure that is parallel to the cell extension direction. <1> ~ <12> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0020] <14> The adsorbent is capable of adsorbing one or more selected from moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components. <1> ~ <13> 10. A vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 9, wherein:

[0021] <15> A method for using an air-conditioning device including a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer peripheral wall to define a plurality of cells that serve as air flow paths extending from a first end face to a second end face, and an adsorption layer provided on a surface of the partition walls and containing an adsorbent, the method comprising: A method for using an air conditioning device, comprising controlling the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment so that the flow rate of the air is greater than the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature.

[0022] <16> The control of the air flow rate is performed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration process. <15> 2. A method for using the air conditioning device described in claim 1.

[0023] <17> The end of the regeneration treatment is a period during the regeneration treatment that is within 1 / 4 of the regeneration treatment time from the end of the regeneration treatment. <15> 2. A method for using the air conditioning device described in claim 1.

[0024] <18> The regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment are repeatedly performed. <15> ~ <17> 10. A method for using the air conditioning device according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0025] <19> the ratio of the flow rate of the air when the adsorption bed is at or above the adsorption temperature to the flow rate of the air when the adsorption bed is below the adsorption temperature is 1.1 or more; <15> ~ <18> 10. A method for using the air conditioning device according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0026] <20> the flow velocity of the air when the adsorption bed is at or above the adsorption temperature is 0.03 m / sec or more; <15> ~ <19> 10. A method for using the air conditioning device according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0027] <21> In the honeycomb structure, at least the partition walls are made of a material having PTC properties. <15> ~ <20> 10. A method for using the air conditioning device according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0028] <22> The air-conditioning device further includes a pair of electrodes provided on the first end face and the second end face of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer peripheral wall of the honeycomb structure that is parallel to the cell extension direction. <15> ~ <21> 10. A method for using the air conditioning device according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0029] <23> The adsorbent is capable of adsorbing one or more selected from moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components. <15> ~ <22> 10. A method for using the air conditioning device according to any one of the preceding claims. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle air conditioning system and a method for using an air conditioning device that enable a smooth transition from regeneration treatment to adsorption treatment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a cross section parallel to a flow path direction of an air conditioning device used in a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] 2B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the air conditioning device of FIG. 2A taken along line aa'. FIG. [Figure 3A] 10 is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer, the air flow rate, and the state with or without voltage applied to the honeycomb structure when controlling the air flow rate during adsorption treatment after regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer. [Figure 3B] 10 is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer, the air flow rate, and the presence or absence of voltage application to the honeycomb structure when the air flow rate is controlled at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer. [Figure 3C] 10 is a graph showing the state of the adsorption layer temperature, air flow rate, and the presence or absence of voltage applied to the honeycomb structure when controlling the air flow rate at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment. [Figure 3D]10 is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer, the air flow rate, and the state with and without voltage applied to the honeycomb structure when the air flow rate is not changed in a conventional method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] The vehicle air conditioning system of the present invention comprises: an air conditioning duct through which air can flow; a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer peripheral wall, the partition walls defining a plurality of cells that serve as air flow paths extending from the first end face to the second end face; an air conditioning device disposed in the air conditioning duct, the honeycomb structure having an adsorbent layer formed on the surface of the partition wall and containing an adsorbent; and a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of air flowing through the cells of the air conditioning device. At the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorbent layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, the control unit controls the air flow rate when the adsorbent layer is at or above the adsorption temperature so that it is higher than the air flow rate when the adsorbent layer is below the adsorption temperature. This configuration of the vehicle air conditioning system of the present invention allows the adsorbent layer to be rapidly cooled to a temperature at which the adsorbent's adsorption capacity can be exerted, enabling a smooth transition from the regeneration treatment to the adsorption treatment. This allows for efficient reduction of humidity in the vehicle cabin.

[0033] Furthermore, a method for using an air conditioning device of the present invention includes an air conditioning device having a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer peripheral wall and defining a plurality of cells that serve as air flow paths extending from the first end face to the second end face, and an adsorption layer containing an adsorbent disposed on the surface of the partition wall, the method controlling the air flow rate when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment so that it is higher than the air flow rate when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature. This configuration of the method for using an air conditioning device of the present invention allows the adsorption layer to be rapidly cooled to a temperature at which the adsorbent's adsorption capacity can be exerted, enabling a smooth transition from the regeneration treatment to the adsorption treatment. This allows for efficient reduction of humidity in the vehicle cabin.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and it should be understood that modifications and improvements made to the following embodiments based on the ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0035] <Vehicle air conditioning system> A vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention can be suitably used in various vehicles, such as automobiles. Examples of vehicles include, but are not limited to, automobiles and trains. Examples of automobiles include, but are not limited to, gasoline-powered vehicles, diesel-powered vehicles, gas-fueled vehicles using CNG (compressed natural gas) or LNG (liquefied natural gas), fuel cell vehicles, electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid vehicles. A vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention can be suitably used in vehicles without internal combustion engines, such as electric vehicles and trains.

[0036] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall configuration of a vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2A is a schematic diagram of a cross section parallel to the flow path direction of an air conditioning device used in the vehicle air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2B is a schematic diagram of a cross section taken along line a-a' of the air conditioning device of Fig. 2A.

[0037] 1, a vehicle air conditioning system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an air conditioning duct 10, an air conditioning device 20, and a control unit 30. The vehicle air conditioning system 100 may further include a power supply 40, a valve 50, and a ventilator 60.

[0038] Air from the vehicle interior or outside the vehicle can flow through the air conditioning duct 10. The air conditioning duct 10 can have, downstream of the air conditioning device 20, a first path 10a through which air flows into the vehicle interior and a second path 10b through which air is discharged outside the vehicle.

[0039] The air conditioning device 20 is disposed inside the air conditioning duct 10. The number of air conditioning devices 20 disposed inside the air conditioning duct 10 may be one or more. When a plurality of air conditioning devices 20 are provided, they may be disposed in parallel or in series with respect to the flow of air circulating inside the air conditioning duct 10. 2A and 2B, the air conditioning device 20 includes a honeycomb structure 21 having an outer peripheral wall 23 and partition walls 26 disposed inside the outer peripheral wall 23 and defining a plurality of cells 25 that serve as air flow paths extending from a first end face 24a to a second end face 24b, and an adsorption layer 27 provided on the surface of the partition wall 26. The honeycomb structure 21 may also be provided with a pair of electrodes 28a, 28b and a terminal 29 connected to the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b.

[0040] The control unit 30 can control the flow rate of air flowing through the cells 25 of the air conditioning device 20. Specifically, the control unit 30 controls the flow rate (flow rate) of air by adjusting the rotation speed of a fan 60 electrically connected to the control unit 30. The control unit 30 is also connected to a power source 40, a valve 50, etc., and can control these.

[0041] In the vehicle air-conditioning system 100 having the above-described structure, during the adsorption process and regeneration process of the air-conditioning device 20, air from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle flows into the air-conditioning device 20 through the air-conditioning duct 10. During the adsorption process of the air-conditioning device 20 (adsorption layer 27), moisture, CO2, and the like in the air are captured (adsorbed) by the adsorption layer 27 of the air-conditioning device 20, and the air with reduced moisture and CO2 flows into the vehicle compartment through the first path 10a. On the other hand, during the regeneration process of the air-conditioning device 20 (adsorption layer 27), as the honeycomb structure 21 of the air-conditioning device 20 is heated, the moisture, CO2, and the like captured by the adsorption layer 27 are desorbed, and the air containing moisture, CO2, and the like flows out of the vehicle through the second path 10b.

[0042] At the end of the regeneration process of the adsorption layer 27 and / or during the adsorption process after the regeneration process, the control unit 30 controls the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature so that it is greater than the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature. When the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature, the adsorption layer 27 does not adsorb moisture, CO2, etc., so it is desirable to cool the adsorption layer 27 as quickly as possible so that the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature. Therefore, when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature, the air flow rate is increased to make it easier to cool the adsorption layer 27. Furthermore, by controlling the air flow rate at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27 and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, a smooth transition from the regeneration treatment to the adsorption treatment becomes possible.

[0043] Here, in this specification, "adsorption temperature" means the temperature at which the adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 27 can exert its adsorption ability. Therefore, the adsorption temperature is determined depending on the type of adsorbent and the type of main component to be adsorbed. For example, if the main component to be adsorbed is moisture, the adsorption temperature is the temperature at which moisture can be adsorbed. In this case, the typical adsorption temperature is 0 to 60°C. Furthermore, in this specification, "regeneration treatment" refers to a treatment in which air is circulated through cells 25 while heating honeycomb structure 21 (i.e., while applying voltage), and "adsorption treatment" refers to a treatment in which air is circulated through cells 25 without heating honeycomb structure 21 (i.e., without applying voltage). In addition, in this specification, the term "end of the regeneration treatment" refers to a period near the end of the regeneration treatment. The end of the regeneration treatment is not particularly limited, but is preferably a period during the regeneration treatment that is within 1 / 4 of the regeneration treatment time from the end of the regeneration treatment, more preferably a period during the regeneration treatment that is within 1 / 8 of the regeneration treatment time from the end of the regeneration treatment, and even more preferably a period during the regeneration treatment that is within 1 / 10 of the regeneration treatment time from the end of the regeneration treatment.

[0044] FIG. 3A is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer 27, the air flow rate, and the presence or absence of voltage application to the honeycomb structure 21 when the above control is performed during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27. FIG. 3B is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer 27, the air flow rate, and the presence or absence of voltage application to the honeycomb structure 21 when the above control is performed at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27. Figure 3C is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer 27, the air flow rate, and the presence or absence of applied voltage to the honeycomb structure 21 when the above control is performed at the end of the regeneration process of the adsorption layer 27 and during the adsorption process after the regeneration process. FIG. 3D is a graph showing the temperature of the adsorption layer 27, the air flow rate, and the presence or absence of voltage applied to the honeycomb structure 21 when the above control is not performed (a conventional method in which the air flow rate is not changed).

[0045] 3A to 3D, compared to conventional methods in which the air flow rate is not changed, by performing the above-described control at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorbent layer 27 and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, the time T1 from the end of the regeneration treatment until the adsorption treatment becomes possible can be shortened, thereby enabling a smooth transition from the regeneration treatment to the adsorption treatment. In particular, from the perspective of shortening the time T1 from the end of the regeneration treatment until the adsorption treatment becomes possible, it is preferable to perform the above-described control at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorbent layer 27 or at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorbent layer 27 and during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment. Furthermore, from the perspective of reducing wasted power consumption, it is preferable to perform the above-described control during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment of the adsorbent layer 27.

[0046] The above control is preferably performed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration treatment. Specifically, when the above control is performed during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27, or during the final stage of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27 and the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, the above control is preferably completed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration treatment. By performing control in this manner, the adsorption treatment can be started promptly. Furthermore, while increasing the air flow velocity increases the rotation speed of the fan 60, which makes noise more likely to occur, performing the above control within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration treatment can shorten the period during which noise is more likely to occur.

[0047] The regeneration treatment and adsorption treatment can be performed as appropriate depending on the humidity inside the vehicle cabin, but when the humidity inside the vehicle cabin is high, it is preferable to repeatedly perform the regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment. By repeatedly performing the regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment, even when the moisture adsorbed in the adsorption layer 27 becomes saturated, the moisture adsorbed in the adsorption layer 27 can be desorbed by the regeneration treatment, and then the moisture can be adsorbed by the adsorption layer 27 immediately by the adsorption treatment, thereby efficiently reducing the humidity inside the vehicle cabin.

[0048] From the viewpoint of efficiently cooling the adsorption layer 27, the ratio of the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature to the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature is preferably 1.1 or more, more preferably 1.2 or more, and even more preferably 1.3 or more. The upper limit of the ratio of the air flow velocity when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature to the air flow velocity when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of suppressing noise caused by an increase in the rotation speed of the fan 60, it is preferably 4.0 or less, more preferably 3.5 or less, and even more preferably 3.0 or less.

[0049] The air flow velocity when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature is not particularly limited as long as it satisfies the above conditions, but is preferably 0.02 m / sec or higher, more preferably 0.025 m / sec or higher, and even more preferably 0.03 m / sec or higher. By controlling the air flow velocity to such a level, the adsorption layer 27 can be cooled efficiently. Furthermore, when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature, the air flow velocity is preferably 3.00 m / sec or less, more preferably 2.80 m / sec or less, and even more preferably 2.50 m / sec or less. By controlling in this manner, noise caused by an increase in the rotation speed of the fan 60 can be suppressed.

[0050] The air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature is not particularly limited as long as it satisfies the above conditions, but is preferably 0.01 to 1.00 m / sec, more preferably 0.02 to 0.93 m / sec, and even more preferably 0.03 to 0.83 m / sec.

[0051] The temperature of the adsorption layer 27 is preferably determined by measuring the condition parameter, which is determined in advance based on a relationship between the temperature of the adsorption layer 27 and at least one condition parameter selected from the temperature of the honeycomb structure 21, the resistance value of the honeycomb structure 21, the current value of the honeycomb structure 21, the heating time of the honeycomb structure 21, the temperature of the air that has passed through the honeycomb structure 21, and the amount of components contained in the air that has passed through the honeycomb structure 21. Although it is difficult to directly measure the temperature of the adsorption layer 27 in the vehicle air conditioning system 100, the temperature of the adsorption layer 27 can be determined by measuring the condition parameter as described above.

[0052] Each component of the vehicle air conditioning system 100 will be described in detail below.

[0053] (1. Air conditioning duct 10) The air conditioning duct 10 is a flow path through which air can flow. The upstream side of the air conditioning duct 10 is connected to the vehicle cabin or an outside air inlet. The air conditioning duct 10 introduces air from the vehicle cabin or outside the vehicle, and also causes air that has passed through the air conditioning device 20 to flow into the vehicle cabin or out of the vehicle. Therefore, it is preferable that the air conditioning duct 10 be branched downstream of the air conditioning device 20 into a first path 10a that introduces air into the vehicle cabin and a second path 10b that discharges air outside the vehicle.

[0054] The air conditioning duct 10 may include a valve 50 capable of switching the air flow between the first path 10a and the second path 10b. The valve 50 is not particularly limited as long as it is electrically driven and has the function of switching the flow path, and a solenoid valve, an electric valve, or the like may be used. For example, the valve 50 may include an opening / closing door supported on a rotating shaft and an actuator such as a motor that rotates the rotating shaft. The actuator may be configured to be controllable by the control unit 30.

[0055] (2. Air Conditioning Device 20) (2-1. Honeycomb structure 21) The shape of the honeycomb structure 21 is not particularly limited. For example, the outer shape of a cross section perpendicular to the flow path direction (the direction in which the cells 25 extend) of the honeycomb structure 21 can be a polygon such as a quadrangle (rectangle, square), pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon, a circle, or an oval shape (egg, ellipse, oval, rounded rectangle, etc.). The end faces (first end face 24a and second end face 24b) have the same shape as the cross section. When the cross section and end faces are polygonal, the corners may be chamfered.

[0056] The shape of the cells 25 is not particularly limited, but may be a polygon such as a square, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon, a circle, or an oval in a cross section perpendicular to the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 21. These shapes may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these shapes, a square or hexagon is preferable. By providing cells 25 of such a shape, pressure loss during air flow can be reduced.

[0057] The honeycomb structure 21 may be a honeycomb bonded body having a plurality of honeycomb segments and a bonding layer bonding the outer peripheral side surfaces of the plurality of honeycomb segments together. By using the honeycomb bonded body, it is possible to increase the total cross-sectional area of ​​the cells 25, which is important for ensuring the air flow rate (flow velocity), while suppressing the occurrence of cracks. The bonding layer can be formed using a bonding material. The bonding material is not particularly limited, but a paste made by adding a solvent such as water to a ceramic raw material can be used. The bonding material may contain a material having PTC properties, or may contain the same material as the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition walls 26. In addition to the role of bonding the honeycomb segments together, the bonding material can also be used as an outer peripheral coating material after the honeycomb segments are bonded.

[0058] From the viewpoints of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, reducing pressure loss when air passes through the cells 25, ensuring the amount of functional material carried, and ensuring the contact area with the air flowing within the cells 25, it is desirable to suitably combine the thickness of the partition walls 26, the cell density, and the cell pitch (or the opening rate of the cells 25). In this specification, cell density is a value obtained by dividing the number of cells by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 24a or second end face 24b) of the honeycomb structure 21 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 26 and cells 25 excluding the outer wall 23). In this specification, the cell pitch refers to a value calculated by the following calculation: First, the area per cell is calculated by dividing the area of ​​one end face (first end face 24a or second end face 24b) of the honeycomb structure 21 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 26 and the cells 25 excluding the outer peripheral wall 23) by the number of cells. Next, the square root of the area per cell is calculated, and this is defined as the cell pitch. In this specification, the opening ratio of the cells 25 is a value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​the cells 25 partitioned by the partition walls 26 in a cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the honeycomb structure 21 by the area of ​​one end face (the first end face 24a or the second end face 24b) (the total area of ​​the partition walls 26 and the cells 25 excluding the outer peripheral wall 23). Note that when calculating the opening ratio of the cells 25, the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b and the adsorption layer 27 are not taken into consideration.

[0059] In an embodiment advantageous from the viewpoint of carrying a sufficient amount of functional material, the thickness of the partition walls 26 is 0.300 mm or less, and the cell density is 100 cells / cm. 2In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition walls 26 is 0.200 mm or less, and the cell density is 70 cells / cm. 2 In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition walls 26 is 0.130 mm or less, and the cell density is 65 cells / cm. 2 or less, and the cell pitch is 1.3 mm or more.

[0060] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21 and keeping the electrical resistance low, the lower limit of the thickness of the partition walls 26 is preferably 0.010 mm or more, more preferably 0.020 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.030 mm or more. From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, keeping the electrical resistance low, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and desorption, the lower limit of the cell density is 30 cells / cm. 2 Preferably, 35 cells / cm or more. 2 More preferably, 40 cells / cm or more. 2 More preferably, it is equal to or greater than this. From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, maintaining low electrical resistance, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and desorption, the upper limit of the cell pitch is preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.8 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.6 mm or less.

[0061] In an embodiment that is advantageous from the viewpoint of achieving both a reduction in pressure loss and maintaining strength, the thickness of the partition walls 26 is 0.08 to 0.36 mm, and the cell density is 2.54 to 140 cells / cm. 2 In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition walls 26 is 0.09 to 0.35 mm, and the cell density is 15 to 100 cells / cm. 2 In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition walls 26 is 0.14 to 0.30 mm, and the cell density is 20 to 90 cells / cm. 2 The aperture ratio of the cell 25 is 0.85 or more.

[0062] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, the upper limit of the opening ratio of the cells 25 is preferably 0.94 or less, more preferably 0.92 or less, and further preferably 0.90 or less.

[0063] The thickness of the peripheral wall 23 is not particularly limited, but is preferably determined based on the following points: First, from the viewpoint of reinforcing the honeycomb structure 21, the thickness of the peripheral wall 23 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 the electrical resistance to suppress the initial current and reducing the pressure loss when air flows through, the thickness of the peripheral wall 23 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. In this specification, the thickness of the outer wall 23 refers to the length in the normal direction of the side surface from the boundary between the outer wall 23 and the outermost cell 25 or partition wall 26 to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 21 in a cross section perpendicular to the flow path direction.

[0064] The length of the honeycomb structure 21 in the flow path direction and the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the flow path direction are not particularly limited and may be adjusted according to the required size of the air conditioning device 20. For example, when the honeycomb structure 21 is used in a compact air conditioning device 20 while ensuring a predetermined function, the length of the honeycomb structure 21 in the flow path direction is set to 2 to 20 mm, and the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the flow path direction is set to 10 cm. 2 The upper limit of the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the flow path direction is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, 300 cm 2 The following is the result.

[0065] The partition walls 26 constituting the honeycomb structure 21 are made of a material that can generate heat when electricity is applied thereto, and specifically, are preferably made of a material having PTC characteristics. If necessary, the peripheral wall 23 may also be made of a material having PTC characteristics, like the partition walls 26. With this configuration, the adsorption layer 27 can be directly heated by heat transfer from the heat-generating partition walls 26 (and the peripheral wall 23, if necessary). Furthermore, materials having PTC characteristics have the property that, when their temperature rises and exceeds the Curie point, their resistance value rises sharply, making it difficult for electricity to flow through them. Therefore, when the partition walls 26 (and the peripheral wall 23, if necessary) reach a high temperature, the current flowing through them is limited, thereby suppressing excessive heat generation in the honeycomb structure 21. Therefore, it is also possible to suppress thermal deterioration of the adsorption layer 27 due to excessive heat generation.

[0066] From the viewpoint of obtaining appropriate heat generation, the lower limit of the volume resistivity at 25°C of a material having PTC characteristics 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 at a low driving voltage, the upper limit of the volume resistivity at 25°C of a material having PTC characteristics is preferably 30 Ω·cm or less, more preferably 18 Ω·cm or less, and even more preferably 16 Ω·cm or less. In this specification, the volume resistivity at 25°C of a material having PTC characteristics is measured in accordance with JIS K6271:2008.

[0067] From the viewpoint of being able to generate heat when electrically applied and having PTC characteristics, the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition walls 26 are preferably made of a material whose main component is barium titanate (BaTiO3). Furthermore, this material is more preferably a ceramic made of a material whose main component is barium titanate (BaTiO3)-based crystal particles in which part of the Ba is substituted with a rare earth element. In this specification, the term "main component" refers to a component that accounts for more than 50 mass% of the total components. The content of BaTiO3-based crystal particles can be determined by fluorescent X-ray analysis. Other crystal particles can also be measured using a similar method.

[0068] The composition formula of BaTiO3-based crystal particles in which part of Ba is replaced by rare earth elements is (Ba 1-x A x )TiO3, where A represents one or more rare earth elements and x is 0.0001≦x≦0.010. A is not particularly limited as long as it is a rare earth element, but is preferably one or more selected from the group consisting of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, Y, and Yb, and more preferably La. x is preferably 0.001 or more, more preferably 0.0015 or more, from the viewpoint of preventing the electrical resistance at room temperature from becoming too high. On the other hand, x is preferably 0.009 or less, from the viewpoint of preventing the electrical resistance at room temperature from becoming too high due to insufficient sintering. The content of BaTiO3-based crystal particles in the ceramic, in which Ba is partially substituted with a rare earth element, is not particularly limited as long as it is an amount that serves as the main component, but is preferably 90 mass% or more, more preferably 92 mass% or more, and even more preferably 94 mass% or more. The upper limit of the content of BaTiO3-based crystal particles is not particularly limited, but is generally 99 mass%, preferably 98 mass%.

[0069] From the viewpoint of reducing the environmental impact, it is desirable that the materials used for the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition wall 26 be substantially free of lead (Pb). Specifically, the Pb content of the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition wall 26 is preferably 0.01% by mass or less, more preferably 0.001% by mass or less, and even more preferably 0% by mass. A low Pb content allows, for example, air heated by contact with the partition wall 26 during heat generation to be safely applied to living organisms such as humans. The Pb content of the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition wall 26, calculated as 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 by ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry).

[0070] The Curie points of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition walls 26 are preferably in the temperature range at which the resistance value thereof is at least twice the resistance value at room temperature (25°C). If the Curie points are in this temperature range, the current flowing through these materials is limited when the air-conditioning device 20 becomes hot, thereby efficiently suppressing excessive heat generation in the air-conditioning device 20. Therefore, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 27 caused by excessive heat generation can be suppressed. The lower limit of the Curie point of the material constituting the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition walls 26 is preferably 80°C or higher, more preferably 100°C or higher, even more preferably 110°C or higher, and particularly preferably 125°C or higher, from the viewpoint of efficiently heating the adsorption layer 27. The upper limit of the Curie point is preferably 200°C or lower, more preferably 190°C or lower, even more preferably 180°C or lower, and particularly preferably 150°C or lower, from the viewpoint of safety as a part placed in or near the vehicle interior.

[0071] The Curie point of the material forming the outer peripheral wall 23 and the partition walls 26 can be adjusted by the type and amount of the shifter added. For example, the Curie point of barium titanate (BaTiO) is approximately 120°C, but by substituting part of the Ba and Ti with one or more of Sr, Sn, and Zr, the Curie point can be shifted to a lower temperature.

[0072] In this specification, the Curie point is measured by the following method: A sample is attached to a sample holder for measurement and placed in a measurement chamber (e.g., MINI-SUBZERO MC-810P, manufactured by Espec Corporation). The change in the sample's electrical resistance relative to temperature is measured as the temperature rises from 10°C using a DC resistance meter (e.g., Multimeter 3478A, manufactured by Hewlett-Packard Japan, LLC). The Curie point is determined by the temperature at which the resistance value, based on the electrical resistance-temperature plot obtained from the measurement, is twice the resistance value at room temperature (25°C).

[0073] (2-2. Pair of electrodes 28a, 28b) The positions of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b are not particularly limited, but as shown in Fig. 2A, they can be provided on the first end face 24a and the second end face 24b of the honeycomb structure 21. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b may be provided on the outer peripheral wall 23 parallel to the direction in which the cells 25 of the honeycomb structure 21 extend. By applying a voltage between the pair of electrodes 28a and 28b, it becomes possible to cause the honeycomb structure 21 to generate heat by Joule heat.

[0074] The pair of electrodes 28a, 28b is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a metal or alloy containing at least one selected from Cu, Ag, Al, Ni, and Si. Alternatively, an ohmic electrode capable of making ohmic contact with the outer peripheral wall 23 and / or the partition wall 26 having PTC characteristics may be used. The ohmic electrode may contain, for example, at least one selected from Al, Au, Ag, and In as a base metal and at least one selected from Ni, Si, Zn, Ge, Sn, Se, and Te as a dopant for n-type semiconductors. The pair of electrodes 28a, 28b may have a single-layer structure or a stacked structure of two or more layers. When the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b has a stacked structure of two or more layers, the materials of the layers may be the same or different.

[0075] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b can be set appropriately depending on the method for forming the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b. Examples of methods for forming the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b include metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. The pair of electrodes 28a, 28b can also be formed by applying an electrode paste and then baking it, or by thermal spraying. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b may also be formed by joining metal or alloy plates.

[0076] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b is preferably about 5 to 30 μm for baking of electrode paste, about 100 to 1000 nm for dry plating such as sputtering and vapor deposition, about 10 to 100 μm for thermal spraying, and about 5 to 30 μm for wet plating such as electrolytic deposition and chemical deposition. Furthermore, when joining metal or alloy plates, the thickness is preferably about 5 to 100 μm.

[0077] (2-3. Terminal 29) Terminal 29 is connected to the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b and is provided on at least a portion of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b. Providing terminal 29 facilitates connection to an external power source. Terminal 29 is connected to a conductor that is connected to the external power source.

[0078] The material of terminal 29 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a metal. As the metal, a single metal or an alloy may be used, but from the viewpoints of corrosion resistance, electrical resistivity, and linear expansion coefficient, an alloy containing at least one selected from the group consisting of Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Al, and Ti is preferable, and stainless steel, an Fe-Ni alloy, and phosphor bronze are more preferable.

[0079] The size and shape of the terminal 29 are not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Fig. 2A, the terminal 29 may be provided over the entire pair of electrodes 28a, 28b on the outer peripheral wall 23. The terminal 29 may also be provided over a portion of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b on the outer peripheral wall 23, or may be provided so as to extend outward beyond the outer edges of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b on the outer peripheral wall 23. The terminal 29 may also be provided over a portion of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b on the partition wall 26, or may be provided so as to cover some of the cells 25. The thickness of the terminal 29 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.01 to 10 mm, typically 0.05 to 5 mm.

[0080] The method of connecting the terminal 29 and the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b is not particularly limited as long as they are electrically connected, and they can be connected by, for example, diffusion bonding, a mechanical pressure mechanism, welding, or the like.

[0081] (2-4.Adsorption layer 27) The adsorbent layer 27 is a layer containing an adsorbent material. The adsorption layer 27 can be provided on the surface of the partition wall 26 (in the case of the outermost cell 25, the partition wall 26 and the outer wall 23 that define the outermost cell 25). By providing the adsorption layer 27 in this manner, moisture, CO2, and the like can be easily adsorbed during the adsorption process, and the adsorption layer 27 can be easily heated during the regeneration process, so that the desired function of the adsorption layer 27 can be regenerated.

[0082] The adsorption layer 27 is preferably capable of adsorbing one or more selected from moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components. Specifically, the adsorption layer 27 can contain one or more adsorbents capable of adsorbing these components. Furthermore, if one adsorbent is capable of adsorbing all of moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components, the adsorption layer 27 can adsorb moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components by containing only that adsorbent. The inclusion of such an adsorbent can provide an air purification effect.

[0083] The adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 27 preferably has a function of being able to adsorb moisture, CO2, and the like at temperatures between -20 and 40°C and desorb them at high temperatures of 60°C or higher. Examples of adsorbents include, but are not limited to, aluminosilicates, silica gel, silica, graphene oxide, polymer adsorbents, polystyrene sulfonic acid, zeolites, activated carbon, alumina, low-crystalline clay, amorphous aluminum silicate complexes, and metal organic frameworks (MOFs). These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0084] The aluminosilicate is preferably a porous clay mineral such as AFI-type, CHA-type or BEA-type zeolite, allophane, imogolite, etc. The aluminosilicate is preferably amorphous.

[0085] As the silica gel, it is preferable to use type A silica gel. The polymer adsorbent is preferably one having a polyacrylic acid polymer chain, such as sodium polyacrylate. A metal-organic framework is a crystalline hybrid material containing metal ions and organic molecules (organic ligands). The metal ions are preferably hydrophilic metal ions (e.g., aluminum ions).

[0086] Volatile components contained in the air inside a vehicle cabin include, for example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odor components other than VOCs. Specific examples of volatile components include ammonia, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, nonenal, formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, paradichlorobenzene, ethylbenzene, styrene, chlorpyrifos, di-n-butyl phthalate, tetradecane, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, diazinon, acetaldehyde, and N-methylcarbamate-2-(1-methylpropyl)phenyl.

[0087] The adsorption layer 27 may contain a catalyst. By containing a catalyst, oxidation-reduction reactions and the like can be promoted, thereby purifying carbon dioxide and / or volatile components. Examples of catalysts having such functions include metal catalysts such as Pt, Pd, and Ag, and oxide catalysts such as CeO2 and ZrO2. One type of catalyst may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination. Furthermore, the catalyst may be used in combination with the above-mentioned functional materials.

[0088] The thickness of the adsorption layer 27 is not particularly limited and may be determined depending on the size of the cells 25. For example, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient contact with air, the thickness of the adsorption layer 27 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 preventing the adsorption layer 27 from peeling off from the partition walls 26 and the outer peripheral wall 23, the thickness of the adsorption layer 27 is preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 380 μm or less, and even more preferably 350 μm or less.

[0089] The thickness of the adsorption layer 27 is measured by the following procedure. An arbitrary cross section parallel to the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 21 is cut out, and a cross-sectional image at approximately 50 magnification is obtained using a scanning electron microscope or the like. This cross section is also set to pass through the center of gravity of the cross section perpendicular to the flow path direction of the honeycomb structure 21. For each adsorption layer 27 visible in the cross-sectional image, the thickness is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area by the length of the cell 25 in the flow path direction. This calculation is performed for all adsorption layers 27 visible in the cross-sectional image, and the overall average value is taken as the thickness of the adsorption layer 27.

[0090] From the viewpoint of exhibiting the desired function in the air-conditioning device 20, the amount of the adsorption layer 27 is preferably 50 to 500 g / L, more preferably 100 to 400 g / L, and even more preferably 150 to 350 g / L relative to the volume of the honeycomb structure 21. The volume of the honeycomb structure 21 is a value determined by the outer dimensions of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0091] (2-5. Method for manufacturing air conditioning device 20) The method for manufacturing the air-conditioning device 20 is not particularly limited and can be carried out in accordance with a known method. The method for manufacturing the air-conditioning device 20 will be exemplified below. The method for manufacturing the honeycomb structure 21 constituting the air-conditioning device 20 includes a molding step and a firing step. In the molding step, a clay containing ceramic raw materials including BaCO3 powder, TiO2 powder, and powder of a rare earth nitrate or hydroxide is molded to produce a honeycomb molded body with a relative density of 60% or more. The ceramic raw material can be obtained by dry mixing each powder to obtain a desired composition. The clay can be obtained by adding a dispersion medium, a binder, a plasticizer, and a dispersant to a ceramic raw material and kneading the mixture. The clay may contain additives such as a sifter, a metal oxide, a property improver, and a conductive powder, as needed. The blending amount of components other than the ceramic raw materials is not particularly limited as long as it is an amount that allows the relative density of the honeycomb formed body to be 60% or more.

[0092] Here, in this specification, the "relative density of the honeycomb formed body" means the ratio of the density of the honeycomb formed body to the true density of the entire ceramic raw material. Specifically, it can be calculated by the following formula. Relative density (%) of honeycomb formed body = Density of honeycomb formed body (g / cm 3 ) / true density of the entire ceramic raw material (g / cm 3 ) x 100 The density of the honeycomb formed body can be measured by the Archimedes method using pure water as a medium. The true density of the entire ceramic raw material is calculated by multiplying the total mass (g) of each raw material by the total volume (cm) of each raw material. 3 ) can be calculated by dividing by

[0093] Examples of the dispersion medium include water and a mixed solvent of water and an organic solvent such as alcohol, with water being particularly preferred.

[0094] Examples of binders include organic binders such as methyl cellulose, hydroxypropoxyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, and polyvinyl alcohol. It is particularly preferable to use a combination of methyl cellulose and hydroxypropoxyl cellulose. While one binder may be used alone or two or more binders may be used in combination, it is preferable that the binder does not contain an alkali metal element.

[0095] Examples of the plasticizer include polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether, polycarboxylic acid polymer, and alkyl phosphate ester.

[0096] The dispersant may be a surfactant such as polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether, ethylene glycol, dextrin, fatty acid soap, polyalcohol, etc. The dispersant may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0097] The honeycomb formed body can be produced by extrusion molding of a clay. In extrusion molding, a die having a desired overall shape, cell shape, partition wall thickness, cell density, etc. can be used.

[0098] The relative density of the honeycomb formed body obtained by extrusion molding is 60% or more, preferably 65% ​​or more. By controlling the relative density of the honeycomb formed body within this range, it is possible to densify the honeycomb formed body and reduce its electrical resistance at room temperature. The upper limit of the relative density of the honeycomb formed body is not particularly limited, but is generally 80%, preferably 75%.

[0099] The honeycomb molded body can be dried before the firing step. The drying method is not particularly limited, and for example, a conventionally known drying method such as hot air drying, microwave drying, dielectric drying, reduced pressure drying, vacuum drying, freeze drying, etc. Among these, a drying method that combines hot air drying with microwave drying or dielectric drying is preferred because it can dry the entire molded body quickly and uniformly.

[0100] The firing step involves holding the temperature at 1150 to 1250°C, then raising the temperature to a maximum temperature of 1360 to 1430°C at a rate of 20 to 600°C / hour, and holding the temperature for 0.5 to 10 hours. By holding the honeycomb formed body at a maximum temperature of 1360 to 1430°C for 0.5 to 10 hours, a honeycomb structure 21 containing, as a main component, BaTiO3-based crystal particles in which part of Ba has been substituted with a rare earth element can be obtained. Furthermore, by maintaining the temperature at 1150 to 1250°C, Ba2TiO4 crystal particles generated during the firing process can be easily removed, and the honeycomb structure 21 can be made dense. Furthermore, by setting the heating rate from 1150 to 1250°C to the maximum temperature of 1360 to 1430°C at 20 to 600°C / hour, 1.0 to 10.0 mass% of Ba6Ti 17 O 40 Crystal grains can be generated in the honeycomb structure 21.

[0101] The holding time at 1150 to 1250°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.5 to 10 hours. By holding for such a time, Ba2TiO4 crystal particles formed during the firing process can be stably and easily removed.

[0102] The firing step preferably includes holding the mixture at 900 to 950°C for 0.5 to 5 hours during heating. Holding the mixture at 900 to 950°C for 0.5 to 5 hours allows BaCO3 to efficiently decompose, making it easier to obtain a honeycomb structure 21 having a predetermined composition.

[0103] Before the firing step, a degreasing step may be carried out to remove the binder. The degreasing step is preferably carried out in an air atmosphere to completely decompose the organic components. Furthermore, the firing step is preferably carried out in an air atmosphere from the viewpoint of controlling electrical properties and reducing manufacturing costs. The firing furnace used in the firing step and degreasing step is not particularly limited, but an electric furnace, a gas furnace, or the like can be used.

[0104] A pair of electrodes 28a, 28b are formed on the honeycomb structure 21 obtained in this manner. The pair of electrodes 28a, 28b can be formed by a metal deposition method such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, or chemical deposition. The pair of electrodes 28a, 28b can also be formed by applying an electrode paste and then baking it. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b can also be formed by thermal spraying. The pair of electrodes 28a, 28b may be formed of a single layer, or may be formed of multiple electrode layers with different compositions. Representative methods for forming the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b will be described below.

[0105] First, an electrode slurry containing an electrode material, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium is prepared and applied to the first end face 24a or the second end face 24b of the honeycomb structure 21. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, texanol, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether), or a mixture thereof. Excess slurry on the outer periphery of the honeycomb structure 21 is removed by blowing and wiping. Thereafter, the slurry is dried to form a pair of electrodes 28a, 28b on the first end face 24a or the second end face 24b of the honeycomb structure 21. Drying can be performed while heating the honeycomb structure 21 to a temperature of, for example, about 120 to 600°C. The series of steps of coating, slurry removal, and drying may be carried out only once, but by repeating these steps multiple times, a pair of electrodes 28a, 28b of a desired thickness can be provided.

[0106] Next, terminals 29 are placed at predetermined positions of the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b, and the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b are connected to terminal 29. The method for connecting the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b to terminal 29 can be the method described above. The terminal 29 may be provided after the adsorption layer 27 described below is formed.

[0107] Next, an adsorption layer 27 is formed on the surfaces of the partition walls 26 and the like of the honeycomb structure 21 . The method for forming the adsorption layer 27 is not particularly limited, and it can be formed, for example, by the following process. The honeycomb structure 21 is immersed in a slurry containing an adsorbent, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium for a predetermined period of time, and excess slurry on the end faces and outer periphery of the honeycomb structure 21 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. Thereafter, the slurry is dried to form the adsorption layer 27 on the surface of the partition wall 26. The drying can be performed while heating the honeycomb structure 21 to a temperature of, for example, about 120 to 600°C. The series of steps of immersion, slurry removal, and drying may be carried out only once, but by repeating the steps multiple times, an adsorption layer 27 of a desired thickness can be provided on the surface of the partition wall 26 or the like.

[0108] (3.Power supply 40) The power supply 40 is used to apply a voltage to the air conditioning device 20 (particularly to the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b). The power supply 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 30, and adjusts the state of voltage application to the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b in accordance with instructions from the control unit 30. The power source 40 is not particularly limited, and a battery or the like can be used.

[0109] (4. Ventilator 60) The ventilator 60 is arranged in the air conditioning duct 10 to introduce air from the vehicle interior or outside the vehicle into the air conditioning device 20. The position of the ventilator 60 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, upstream of the air conditioning device 20 as shown in FIG. Furthermore, the ventilator 60 is electrically connected to the control unit 30, and controls the air flow rate by adjusting the rotation speed in accordance with instructions from the control unit 30.

[0110] (5. Control unit 30) The control unit 30 is connected to a power source 40, a valve 50, a ventilator 60, etc., and can control these. Specifically, by controlling the power source 40, the control unit 30 can control the state of voltage application to the pair of electrodes 28a, 28b of the air-conditioning device 20, and adjust the heating state of the honeycomb structure 21. The control unit 30 can also control the valve 50 so that air flows through the first path 10a or the second path 10b. Furthermore, the control unit 30 can control the speed of air flowing through the air-conditioning duct 10 by adjusting the rotation speed of the ventilator 60.

[0111] The control unit 30 is not particularly limited, but is generally an ECU (Engine (electronic) Control Unit). The ECU includes a CPU that executes various arithmetic processes, a ROM that stores programs and data required for the control, a RAM that temporarily stores the results of the CPU calculations, and an input / output port for inputting and outputting signals to and from the outside.

[0112] The control unit 30 can perform an adsorption process in which the applied voltage from the power supply 40 is turned off and the valve 50 is switched so that the air flowing through the air conditioning duct 10 passes through the first path 10a, and a regeneration process in which the applied voltage from the power supply 40 is turned on and the valve 50 is switched so that the air flowing through the air conditioning duct 10 passes through the second path 10b. By performing the adsorption process and the regeneration process in this manner, the adsorption process and the regeneration process can be performed efficiently.

[0113] In the case of the adsorption process, the control unit 30 controls as described above to capture (adsorb) moisture, CO2, and the like in the air circulating from the vehicle interior or outside the vehicle. At this time, the honeycomb structure 21 of the air-conditioning device 20 is not heated. Specifically, air from the vehicle interior or outside the vehicle flows into the air-conditioning device 20 through the air-conditioning duct 10, and moisture, CO2, and the like contained in the air are captured (adsorbed). Then, the air with the captured moisture, CO2, and the like is returned to the vehicle interior through the first path 10a.

[0114] In the case of the regeneration process, the control unit 30 performs the control as described above to regenerate the adsorption layer 27 of the air conditioning device 20. At this time, the honeycomb structure 21 of the air conditioning device 20 is heated. Specifically, air from the vehicle compartment or outside the vehicle flows into the air conditioning device 20 through the air conditioning duct 10, and while passing through the air conditioning device 20, the air desorbs moisture, CO2, and the like captured in the adsorption layer 27. The moisture-containing air then passes through the second path 10b and is discharged outside the vehicle.

[0115] From the viewpoint of stably performing the above control, it is desirable that the air conditioning device 20 be located close to the vehicle interior. Therefore, from the viewpoint of preventing electric shock, etc., it is preferable that the driving voltage of the air conditioning device 20 is 60 V or less. The honeycomb structure 21 used in the air conditioning device 20 has low electrical resistance at room temperature, so that the honeycomb structure 21 can be heated at this low driving voltage. The lower limit of the driving voltage is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10 V or more. If the driving voltage is less than 10 V, the current when heating the honeycomb structure 21 will be large, and therefore the conductor wires will need to be thicker.

[0116] <How to use the air conditioning device> In a method of using an air conditioning device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in the air conditioning device 20 described above, at the end of the regeneration process of the adsorption layer 27 and / or during the adsorption process after the regeneration process, the control unit 30 controls the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature so that it is faster than the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature. By controlling the air flow rate (flow rate) in this manner, when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature, the air flow rate is increased, making it easier to cool the adsorption layer 27 and enabling a smooth transition from the regeneration process to the adsorption process.

[0117] The above control is preferably performed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration treatment. Specifically, when the above control is performed during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27, or during the final stage of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer 27 and the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, the above control is preferably completed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration treatment. By performing control in this manner, the adsorption treatment can be started promptly. Furthermore, while increasing the air flow velocity increases the rotation speed of the fan 60, which makes noise more likely to occur, performing the above control within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration treatment can shorten the period during which noise is more likely to occur.

[0118] The regeneration treatment and adsorption treatment can be performed as appropriate depending on the humidity inside the vehicle cabin, but when the humidity inside the vehicle cabin is high, it is preferable to repeatedly perform the regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment. By repeatedly performing the regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment, even when the moisture adsorbed in the adsorption layer 27 becomes saturated, the moisture adsorbed in the adsorption layer 27 can be desorbed by the regeneration treatment, and then the moisture can be adsorbed by the adsorption layer 27 immediately by the adsorption treatment, thereby efficiently reducing the humidity inside the vehicle cabin.

[0119] From the viewpoint of efficiently cooling the adsorption layer 27, the ratio of the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature to the air flow rate when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature is preferably 1.1 or more, more preferably 1.2 or more, and even more preferably 1.3 or more. The upper limit of the ratio of the air flow velocity when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature to the air flow velocity when the adsorption layer 27 is below the adsorption temperature is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of suppressing noise caused by an increase in the rotation speed of the fan 60, it is preferably 4.0 or less, more preferably 3.5 or less, and even more preferably 3.0 or less.

[0120] The air flow velocity when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature is not particularly limited as long as it satisfies the above conditions, but is preferably 0.02 m / sec or higher, more preferably 0.025 m / sec or higher, and even more preferably 0.03 m / sec or higher. By controlling the air flow velocity to such a level, the adsorption layer 27 can be cooled efficiently. Furthermore, when the adsorption layer 27 is at or above the adsorption temperature, the air flow velocity is preferably 3.00 m / sec or less, more preferably 2.80 m / sec or less, and even more preferably 2.50 m / sec or less. By controlling in this manner, noise caused by an increase in the rotation speed of the fan 60 can be suppressed.

[0121] The air conditioning device 20 used in the method of using an air conditioning device according to the embodiment of the present invention is as described above, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 10 Air conditioning duct 10a Route 1 10b 2nd pathway 20 Air Conditioning Devices 21 Honeycomb structure 23 Outer wall 24a 1st end surface 24b 2nd end face 25 cells 26 Bulkhead 27 Adsorption layer 28a, 28b Pair of electrodes 29 terminals 30 Control Unit 40 Power supply 50 valves 60 Ventilator 100 Vehicle air conditioning system

Claims

1. an air conditioning duct through which air can circulate; an air conditioning device disposed in the air conditioning duct; a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer peripheral wall and defining a plurality of cells that serve as air flow paths extending from a first end face to a second end face; and an adsorption layer provided on a surface of the partition wall and containing an adsorbent; a control unit capable of controlling a flow rate of the air flowing through the cells of the air conditioning device; Equipped with and at a final stage of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment, the control unit controls the flow velocity of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above an adsorption temperature so as to be greater than the flow velocity of the air when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature.

2. 2. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control of the air flow rate is performed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration process.

3. 2. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the end of the regeneration process is a period during the regeneration process that is within one-fourth of the regeneration process time from the end of the regeneration process.

4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the regeneration process and the adsorption process are repeatedly performed.

5. 4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of a flow velocity of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above an adsorption temperature to a flow velocity of the air when the adsorption layer is below an adsorption temperature is 1.1 or greater.

6. 4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature is 0.03 m / sec or higher.

7. The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the temperature of the adsorption layer is determined by determining in advance the relationship between the temperature of the adsorption layer and at least one condition parameter selected from the temperature of the honeycomb structure, the resistance value of the honeycomb structure, the current value of the honeycomb structure, the heating time of the honeycomb structure, the temperature of the air that has passed through the honeycomb structure, and the amount of components contained in the air that has passed through the honeycomb structure, and the condition parameter.

8. 4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, further comprising a ventilator arranged in the air conditioning duct, wherein the control unit controls the flow velocity of the air by adjusting a rotation speed of the ventilator.

9. 4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the air conditioning duct branches downstream of the air conditioning device into a first path that introduces the air into the vehicle compartment and a second path that exhausts the air to the outside of the vehicle, and further comprises a valve that can switch the flow of the air between the first path and the second path.

10. 10. The vehicle air conditioning system of claim 9, further comprising a power source for applying a voltage to the air conditioning device.

11. The control unit an adsorption process of turning off the voltage applied from the power supply and switching the valve so that the air flowing through the air conditioning duct passes through the first path; a regeneration process of turning on the applied voltage from the power supply and switching the valve so that the air flowing through the air conditioning duct passes through the second path; The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 10, wherein the above formula (1) is executable.

12. 4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein at least the partition walls of the honeycomb structure are made of a material having PTC properties.

13. The vehicle air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the air conditioning device further comprises a pair of electrodes provided on the first end face and the second end face of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer wall of the honeycomb structure that is parallel to the direction in which the cells of the honeycomb structure extend.

14. 4. The vehicle air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the adsorbent is capable of adsorbing at least one selected from the group consisting of moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components.

15. A method for using an air-conditioning device including a honeycomb structure having an outer peripheral wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer peripheral wall to define a plurality of cells that serve as air flow paths extending from a first end face to a second end face, and an adsorption layer provided on a surface of the partition walls and containing an adsorbent, the method comprising: A method for using an air conditioning device, comprising controlling the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature at the end of the regeneration treatment of the adsorption layer and / or during the adsorption treatment after the regeneration treatment so that the flow rate of the air is greater than the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature.

16. 16. The method for using an air conditioning device according to claim 15, wherein the control of the air flow rate is performed within 15 seconds from the end of the regeneration process.

17. The method for using an air conditioning device according to claim 15, wherein the end of the regeneration process is a period during the regeneration process that is within one-fourth of the regeneration process time from the end of the regeneration process.

18. The method for using the air-conditioning device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the regeneration treatment and the adsorption treatment are repeatedly performed.

19. 18. A method for using an air conditioning device according to claim 15, wherein a ratio of the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature to the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is below the adsorption temperature is 1.1 or greater.

20. The method for using the air-conditioning device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the flow rate of the air when the adsorption layer is at or above the adsorption temperature is 0.03 m / sec or more.

21. The method for using an air-conditioning device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein at least the partition walls of the honeycomb structure are made of a material having PTC properties.

22. The method for using an air conditioning device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the air conditioning device further comprises a pair of electrodes provided on the first end face and the second end face of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer wall of the honeycomb structure that is parallel to the direction in which the cells extend.

23. The method for using an air-conditioning device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the adsorbent is capable of adsorbing one or more selected from the group consisting of moisture, carbon dioxide, and volatile components.

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