Heat exchange device, air conditioning device, and heating method

Abstract

The challenge is to ensure that heat exchange type heaters, such as those used in dehumidifiers, function properly. [Solution] A heating method for heating air supplied by a fan includes: a heating step of heating a heat medium by exchanging heat between the heat medium and water using a heat exchanger; a first circulation step of circulating the water to the heat exchanger, a heat recovery unit provided in a fuel cell power generation module which heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module, and a hot water storage tank which stores the water; a second circulation step of circulating the heat medium between a heater which heats the air by exchanging heat between the air and the heat medium and the heat exchanger; and a flow rate adjustment step of adjusting the flow rate of the heat medium based on the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater and the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchanger, an air conditioner, and a heating method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a hot water storage power generation system including a provided hot water storage unit and a fuel cell unit. The hot water storage unit includes a hot water storage tank. In the hot water storage unit, tap water or the like is taken into the hot water storage tank and used for hot water supply or air conditioning. Therefore, heat generated by the fuel cell unit is used for heating water in the hot water storage tank by a heat recovery pipe. A first pump is provided in the fuel cell unit. By driving the first pump, water in the hot water storage tank is taken into the fuel cell unit from the inlet port of the fuel cell unit. The water is heated by heat generated by power generation and discharged from the outlet port of the fuel cell unit. A first heat exchanger is interposed in the heat recovery pipe. In the first heat exchanger, heat in the heat recovery pipe heats water flowing through a bypass pipe by driving a second pump. Two three-way valves are provided at the connection part between the hot water supply facility pipe and the bypass pipe. A mat and a dehumidifier are connected to the hot water supply facility pipe as hot water supply facilities. The mat and the dehumidifier obtain necessary warm water through a hot water supply facility pipe communicating with a heat pump. If the temperature of the outlet port of the fuel cell unit exceeds a threshold value, the three-way valve is switched so that the flow path of the bypass pipe communicates with the dehumidifier, and heat in the heat recovery pipe is heat-exchanged with water in the bypass pipe by the first heat exchanger, and warm water is supplied to the dehumidifier by driving the second pump. If the temperature of the outlet port of the fuel cell unit is below the threshold value, the heat supply source to the bypass pipe is changed to a backup boiler, and heat of the backup boiler is heat-exchanged with water in the bypass pipe by a second heat exchanger, and warm water is supplied to the dehumidifier by driving the second pump. Indoor air is taken into the dehumidifier, and the air is heated by exhaust heat of the fuel cell unit, and the desiccant rotor of the dehumidifier is regenerated by the air.

[0003] According to the technology described in Patent Document 1, the second pump provides fluidity to the water inside the bypass piping, causing the water flow rate to be unregulated. As a result, the water temperature and its gradient inside the dehumidifier may not be stable, and the dehumidifier may not operate properly. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-169119 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to enable the proper operation of heat exchange type heaters used in dehumidifiers and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The symbols shown in parentheses below are referenced in Figures 1 through 8.

[0007] According to claim 1, the heat exchanger is A heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, In order, the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240), the heat recovery unit (23, 123 or 223) provided in the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120 or 220) and which heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120 or 220), and the first circulation circuit (50, 150 or 250) which circulates the water to the hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211) that stores the water, The system comprises a heater (33, 133, or 233) that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by a fan (80, 170, 180, 270, or 280) and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260) that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heater and the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), The second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260) A first measuring instrument (63, 163, or 263) for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) to the heater (33, 133, or 233), A second measuring instrument (64, 164, or 264) for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), A flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262, or 261) adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument (63, 163, or 263) and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument (64, 164, or 264), It has.

[0008] According to claim 2, the heat exchanger is A heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, A first circulation circuit (50, 150, or 250) circulates the water between the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) and the hot water storage tank (11, 111, or 211) that stores the water, A heater (33, 133, or 233) that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by a fan (80, 170, 180, 270, or 280) and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260) that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), The system includes a third circulation circuit (55, 155, 255) that circulates the water between a heat recovery unit (23, 123 or 223) provided in a fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, 220) and which heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, 220), and a hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211), The second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260) A first measuring instrument (63, 163, or 163) for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) to the heater (33, 133, or 233), A second measuring instrument (64, 164, or 264) for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), A flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262, or 261) adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument (63, 163, or 163) and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument (64, 164, or 264), It has.

[0009] According to claim 3, in the heat exchange apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, The flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262, or 261) adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on the difference obtained by subtracting the second measured temperature from the first measured temperature.

[0010] According to claim 8, the air conditioning system is A fan (80, 170, 180, 270 or 280) for ventilating the air being conditioned or for taking in outside air, A heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, A heater (33, 133, or 233) that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by the fan (80, 170, 180, 270, or 280) and the heat transfer medium, A fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, or 220) having a heat recovery unit (23, 123, or 223) that generates electricity from fuel gas and uses the heat generated by the power generation to heat the heat transfer medium, A hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211) that stores the water with a temperature gradient, In order, a first circulation circuit (50, 150, or 250) circulates the water to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), the heat recovery unit (23, 123, or 223), and the hot water storage tank (11, 111, or 211), The system includes a second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260) that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heater (33, 133, or 233) and the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), The second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260) A first measuring instrument (63, 163, or 263) for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) to the heater (33, 133, or 233), A second measuring instrument (64, 164, or 264) for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), A flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262, or 261) adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument (63, 163, or 263) and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument (64, 164, or 264), It has.

[0011] According to claim 9, the air conditioning system is A fan (80, 170, 180, 270 or 280) for ventilating the air being conditioned or for taking in outside air, A heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, A heater (33, 133, or 233) that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by the fan (80, 170, 180, 270, or 280) and the heat transfer medium, A fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, 220) having a heat recovery unit (23, 123 or 223) that generates electricity from fuel gas and uses the heat generated by the power generation to heat the heat transfer medium, A hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211) that stores the water with a temperature gradient, A first circulation circuit (50, 150 or 250) for circulating the water between the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240) and the hot water storage tank (11, 111, 211); A second circulation circuit (60, 160 or 260) for circulating the heat medium between the heater (33, 133 or 233) and the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240); A third circulation circuit (55, 155, 255) for circulating the water between the heat recovery device (23, 123 or 223) and the hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211), wherein the second circulation circuit (60, 160 or 260) A first measuring device (63, 163 or 163) for measuring the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240) to the heater (33, 133 or 233); A second measuring device (64, 164 or 264) for measuring the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater (33, 133 or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240); A flow rate regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262 or 261) for adjusting the flow rate of the heat medium based on the first measured temperature measured by the first measuring device (63, 163 or 163) and the second measured temperature measured by the second measuring device (64, 164 or 264); and having.

[0012] According to claim 10, a heating method for heating air sent by a fan (80, 170, 180, 270 or 280) A heating step of heating the heat medium by performing heat exchange between the heat medium and water using a heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240); In order, a first circulation step of circulating the water through the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240), a heat recovery device (23, 123 or 223) provided in the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120 or 220) and using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120 or 220) to heat the water, and the hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211) for storing the water; A heater (33, 133, or 233) that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation step that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heater and the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), A flow rate adjustment step that adjusts the flow rate of the heat medium based on the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240) to the heater (33, 133 or 233) and the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater (33, 133 or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240), Includes.

[0013] According to claim 11, a heating method for heating air supplied by a fan (80, 170, 180, 270 or 280) is: A heating step in which the heat transfer medium is heated by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water using a heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), A first circulation step in which the water is circulated between the heat exchanger (40, 140 or 240) and the hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211) that stores the water, A heater (33, 133, or 233) that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation step that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heater and the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), A third circulation step involves circulating the water between a heat recovery unit (23, 123 or 223) provided in a fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, 220) and which heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, 220), and the hot water storage tank (11, 111 or 211), A flow rate adjustment step that adjusts the flow rate of the heat medium based on the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) to the heater (33, 133, or 233) and the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), Includes.

[0014] According to claims 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, and 11 described above, water is circulated by the first circulation circuit (50, 150, or 250) to the hot water storage tank (11, 111, or 211) and the heat recovery unit (23, 123, or 223), so that the water does not flow into the dehumidification module. Therefore, the water is clean. By employing a first circulation circuit (50, 150, or 250), a second circulation circuit (60, 160, or 260), and a heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240), and by also employing a third circulation circuit (55, 155, or 255) as needed, the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, or 220) is used to heat the air using a heater (33, 133, or 233). This contributes to improving energy utilization efficiency. The flow rate of the circulating heat transfer medium is adjusted based on the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied to the heater (33, 133, or 233) and the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233), so that the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing inside the heater (33, 133, or 233) is appropriate. Therefore, heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and air in the heater (33, 133, or 233) becomes highly efficient. In addition, the heat exchange and heating conditions by the heater (33, 133, or 233) are appropriate to the environment, such as the temperature of the circulating heat transfer medium, the temperature of the air supplied to the heater (33, 133, or 233), the flow rate of the air passing through the heater (33, 133, or 233), and the heat exchange conditions by the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240). These factors contribute to the proper operation of the heater (33, 133, or 233).

[0015] According to claim 4, in the heat exchange apparatus described in claim 3, When the difference is equal to the threshold, the flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262, or 261) maintains the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference exceeds the threshold, the flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262 or 261) increases the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference is less than the threshold, the flow regulator (62, 61, 162, 161, 262, or 261) reduces the flow rate of the heat transfer medium.

[0016] According to claim 12, in the heating method described in claim 11, The aforementioned flow rate adjustment step is A step of maintaining the flow rate of the heat medium when the difference obtained by subtracting the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) from the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) to the heater (33, 133, or 233) is equal to a threshold, If the difference exceeds the threshold, the process of increasing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is performed. If the difference is less than the threshold, the process of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium, Includes.

[0017] According to claims 4 and 12 described above, the temperature gradient of the heat transfer medium flowing inside the heater (33, 133, or 233) becomes appropriate. Therefore, the heater (33, 133, or 233) operates appropriately according to the environment, and the heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and air in the heater (33, 133, or 233) becomes highly efficient.

[0018] According to claim 5, in the heat exchange apparatus described in claim 3, When the difference is greater than or equal to a lower threshold, and less than or equal to an upper threshold that is greater than the lower threshold, the flow regulator maintains the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference exceeds the upper threshold, the flow regulator increases the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference is less than the lower threshold, the flow regulator reduces the flow rate of the heat transfer medium.

[0019] According to claim 13, in the heating method described in claim 11, The aforementioned flow rate adjustment step is A step of maintaining the flow rate of the heat medium when the difference obtained by subtracting the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater (33, 133, or 233) to the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) from the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger (40, 140, or 240) to the heater (33, 133, or 233) is greater than or equal to a lower threshold, and less than or equal to an upper threshold greater than the lower threshold, If the difference exceeds the upper threshold, the process of increasing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is performed. If the difference is less than the lower threshold, the process of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is performed. Includes.

[0020] According to claims 5 and 13 described above, the temperature gradient of the heat transfer medium flowing inside the heater (33, 133, or 233) becomes appropriate. Therefore, the heater (33, 133, or 233) operates appropriately according to the environment, and the heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and air in the heater (33, 133, or 233) becomes highly efficient.

[0021] According to claim 6, in the heat exchange apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, The heaters (33, 133, or 233) are located upstream of the airflow with respect to the desiccant rotor.

[0022] According to claim 6 as described above, the air is preheated by a heater (33, 133 or 233) before passing through the desiccant rotor, thereby reducing the humidity of the air. As the low-humidity air passes through the desiccant rotor, moisture is released from the desiccant rotor into the air.

[0023] According to claim 7, in the heat exchange apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned fans (80, 170, 180, 270, or 280) are fans used for Type 1 ventilation, Type 2 ventilation, or Type 3 ventilation.

[0024] According to claim 7 as described above, the air ventilated by the fan is heated using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module (20, 120, or 220). [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the present invention, the temperature and gradient of the heat transfer medium flowing inside the heater are made appropriate, and the heater operates properly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a modified example of the first embodiment of a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a modified example of the second embodiment of a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a modified example of the second embodiment of a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a modified example of the third embodiment of a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system and a heat exchanger used therein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and embodiments that are design modifications from the embodiments disclosed below without departing from the spirit of the invention are also included in the scope of the invention. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only, and therefore the scope of the present invention is not limited to the examples shown in the drawings.

[0028] <First Embodiment> <<1. Overview of Combined Heat and Power Air Conditioning Systems>> Figure 1 is a block diagram of a combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system according to the first embodiment.

[0029] The combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system of the first embodiment is installed in a dwelling unit in an apartment building, a detached house, or a small business establishment. The CPC air conditioning system is a circulating dehumidifier that circulates and dehumidifies the air in the air-conditioned area 90 installed indoors. The air-conditioned area 90 is, for example, a living room, storage room, washroom, dressing room, toilet room, corridor, kitchen, stairwell, or entrance hall. The air-conditioned area 90 may also be the entire interior space of a dwelling unit in an apartment building, a detached house, or a small business establishment.

[0030] The combined heat and power (CH) air conditioning system comprises a hot water storage tank 11, an auxiliary heater 19, a fuel cell power generation module 20, a dehumidification module 30, fans 70 and 80, and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger has a heat exchanger 40, a first circulation circuit 50, and a second circulation circuit 60. The entire CH may be installed indoors. Part of the CH may be installed indoors and the remaining part outdoors. For example, the hot water storage tank 11, auxiliary heater 19, and fuel cell power generation module 20 may be installed outdoors, while the dehumidification module 30, fans 70 and 80, and heat exchanger may be installed indoors.

[0031] The fuel cell power generation module 20 is a fuel reforming fuel cell system. The fuel cell power generation module 20 receives a supply of fuel gas such as methane, ethane, propane, or butane, or a mixture of two or more of these. The fuel cell power generation module 20 also receives a supply of air. The fuel cell power generation module 20 converts the chemical energy of the supplied fuel gas into electrical energy. The fuel cell power generation module 20 supplies the generated electricity to power equipment installed in dwellings, detached houses, or small businesses.

[0032] The hot water storage tank 11, the auxiliary heater 19, and the fuel cell power generation module 20 are housed in a common casing. Alternatively, the hot water storage tank 11 and the auxiliary heater 19 are housed in a first casing that connects them, and the fuel cell power generation module 20 is housed in a second casing. Alternatively, the hot water storage tank 11, the auxiliary heater 19, and the fuel cell power generation module 20 are housed separately in individual casings. The first circulation pump 51, described later, may also be housed in one of the casings mentioned above.

[0033] Fan 70 supplies air from the air-conditioned unit 90 installed indoors to the dehumidification module 30. Fan 80 supplies outdoor air to the dehumidification module 30. Fans 70 and 80 may be axial fans such as propeller fans, or centrifugal fans such as sirocco fans, turbo fans, and mixed-flow fans.

[0034] The dehumidification module 30 draws air from the air-conditioned object 90 using the power of the fan 70. The dehumidification module 30 dehumidifies the air supplied by the fan 70 by absorbing moisture from it. The dehumidification module 30 blows the dehumidified air back into the air-conditioned object 90 using the power of the fan 70. The dehumidification module 30 humidifies the air supplied by the fan 80 using the moisture absorbed from the air supplied by the fan 70. The dehumidification module 30 discharges the humidified air outdoors using the power of the fan 80. Fans 70 and 80 may be housed in the casing of the dehumidification module 30.

[0035] <<2. Hot water storage tank and auxiliary heater>> The hot water storage tank 11 stores water with a temperature gradient. The water stored in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 11 is high-temperature water, and the water stored in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 11 is low-temperature water. When the fuel cell power generation module 20 is operating, the water in the hot water storage tank 11 is circulated by the first circulation circuit 50, and the water is heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell power generation module 20. When the fuel cell power generation module 20 is not operating, a pump may operate, sending water from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 11 to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 11 via a second auxiliary heater, and this water may be heated by the second auxiliary heater. The second auxiliary heater may be, for example, a condenser of a heat pump, a heat recovery unit of a solar power generation system, a gas burner, a boiler, a solar water heater, or an electric heater.

[0036] Tap water is supplied to the hot water storage tank 11 without being heated. Tap water may be supplied to the hot water storage tank 11 after being supplementally heated. When tap water is supplementally heated, the heat source is, for example, a condenser of a heat pump, a heat recovery unit of a solar power generation system, a gas burner, a boiler, a solar water heater, or an electric heater. The waste heat from the auxiliary heater 19 may be recovered by the heat recovery unit, and the water supplied to the hot water storage tank 11 may be supplementally heated by the heat recovery unit.

[0037] The hot water in the hot water storage tank 11 is supplementarily heated by the auxiliary heater 19 before being supplied to the plumbing fixtures installed in dwellings, detached houses, or small businesses. However, if the hot water in the hot water storage tank 11 is above the set temperature, the auxiliary heater 19 does not operate, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 11 is supplied to the plumbing fixtures without being heated.

[0038] The auxiliary heater 19 is, for example, a condenser for a heat pump, a heat recovery unit for a solar power generation system, a gas burner, a boiler, a solar water heater, or an electric heater.

[0039] In this embodiment, the method for supplying the high-temperature water from the hot water storage tank 11 to the plumbing equipment is to use a method of pressurizing the hot water from the hot water storage tank 11 using the water supply pressure. However, this is not the only method, and a method of supplying water using a pump may also be used. In the case of a pump, it can be installed anywhere along the path from the outlet of the hot water storage tank 11 through the auxiliary heater 19 to the plumbing equipment. In one example, the pump is installed at the outlet of the hot water storage tank 111.

[0040] <<3. Fuel cell power generation module>> The fuel cell power generation module 20 includes a reformer 21, a fuel cell 22, a heat recovery unit 23, and auxiliary equipment.

[0041] The reformer 21 receives a supply of fuel gas. The reformer 21 reforms the fuel gas into hydrogen to produce a reformed gas with a high hydrogen content. The reformer 21 supplies the produced reformed gas to the fuel cell 22.

[0042] The fuel cell 22 receives reformed gas from the reformer 21. The fuel cell 22 also receives air. The fuel cell 22 electrochemically reacts hydrogen in the reformed gas with oxygen in the air to produce water and electrical energy. The electricity generated by the fuel cell 22 is converted into alternating current by a power converter and then supplied to the power equipment. The fuel cell 22 emits exhaust gas containing products generated by the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen. The exhaust gas contains unreacted fuel gas, hydrogen, or both, and the unreacted material is burned by a combustor, which is a type of auxiliary equipment.

[0043] As described above, during the process in which the fuel cell power generation module 20 generates electricity from fuel gas, the reformer 21, fuel cell 22, and auxiliary equipment of the fuel cell power generation module 20 generate heat. The heat recovery unit 23 recovers the heat generated in the reformer 21, fuel cell 22, and auxiliary equipment, and heats the low-temperature water supplied from the hot water storage tank 11 with the recovered heat. The combustion heat generated in the combustor is also recovered by the heat recovery unit.

[0044] <<4. Dehumidification Module>> The dehumidification module 30 comprises a housing, a moisture absorption / release rotor 31, a motor 32, a heater 33 for preheating, and a cooler 34 for precooling.

[0045] The enclosure has a parallel dehumidifying channel and a humidifying channel inside. An intake port installed on the air-conditioned object 90 is connected to one end of the dehumidifying channel via a duct, and an outlet port installed on the air-conditioned object 90 is connected to the other end of the dehumidifying channel via a duct. The fan 70 may be installed anywhere along the path from the intake port through the dehumidifying channel to the outlet. An intake port installed on the exterior wall of a dwelling, detached house, or small business is connected to one end of the humidifying channel via a duct, and an exhaust port installed on the exterior wall is connected to the other end of the humidifying channel via a duct. The fan 80 may be installed anywhere along the path from the intake port through the humidifying channel to the exhaust port. The direction of airflow in the dehumidifying channel is opposite to the direction of airflow in the humidifying channel.

[0046] The moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is also called a desiccant rotor. The external shape of the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is disc-shaped. The moisture absorption and release rotor 31 has a disc-shaped base material having a honeycomb structure or a corrugated structure, and an adsorbent or sorbent material supported on the base material, or both. Air can pass through the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 from the front side to the back side and vice versa. If the air passing through the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is highly humid, the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 captures moisture from the air, thereby dehumidifying the air. If the air passing through the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is low in humidity, the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 releases moisture into the air, thereby humidifying the air. The moisture captured or released by the moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is mainly water vapor. Moisture capture refers to the adsorption, absorption, or sorbing of moisture, or a combination of two or more of these. Moisture release refers to the separation, evaporation, dissipation, or desorption of moisture, or a combination of two or more of these.

[0047] The moisture absorption / release rotor 31 is installed inside the housing. The moisture absorption / release rotor 31 is positioned to extend beyond the boundary between the dehumidifying channel and the humidifying channel within the housing into these channels. One half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 is positioned in the dehumidifying channel, and the other half is positioned in the humidifying channel. Air blown by the fan 70 passes through one half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 in the dehumidifying channel, and air blown by the fan 80 passes through the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 in the humidifying channel.

[0048] The moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is held in a cage such as a bearing that receives radial and axial loads from the moisture absorption and release rotor 31. The moisture absorption and release rotor 31 is held by the cage so that it can rotate in the circumferential direction about the central axis of the moisture absorption and release rotor 31.

[0049] The motor 32 is connected to the center of the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31. The motor 32 rotates the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31. A reduction gear may be provided between the motor 32 and the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31, and the reduction gear may transmit the torque of the motor 32 to the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31 at a rotational speed lower than the rotational speed of the motor 32. The rotational speed of the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31 is low. The rotation of the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31 contributes to the circumferential movement of the portion of the moisture absorption / dehumidification rotor 31 that is exposed to the dehumidification flow path.

[0050] The cooler 34 is, for example, an evaporator in a refrigeration cycle, a heat absorption section of a Peltier element, or a water-cooled heat exchanger. It is positioned upstream of one half of the moisture absorption / decompression rotor 31 within the dehumidification flow path. When air blown by the fan 70 passes through the cooler 34, the air is cooled by the cooler 34, causing its humidity to increase. When the air pre-cooled by the cooler 34 passes through one half of the moisture absorption / decompression rotor 31, the moisture in the air is captured by that half of the rotor 31.

[0051] The heater 33 is a heat exchanger. A heated, high-temperature heat transfer medium flows inside the heater 33. It is located upstream of the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 in the humidification channel. When air blown by the fan 80 passes through the heater 33, the air is heated by the heater 33, reducing its humidity. When the air preheated by the heater 33 passes through the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31, moisture captured by the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 is released into the air. The other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 is regenerated due to the decrease in moisture content. Because the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 rotates at a low speed, the regeneration of the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 in the humidification channel prevents the moisture absorption / release rotor 31 from becoming saturated in the dehumidification channel.

[0052] <<5. Heat exchange equipment>> The heat exchanger transfers the heat generated in the fuel cell power generation module 20 to the heater 33. As described above, the heat exchanger includes a heat exchanger 40, a first circulation circuit 50, and a second circulation circuit 60.

[0053] The first circulation circuit 50 circulates water sequentially to the heat exchanger 40, the heat recovery unit 23, and the hot water storage tank 11. The first circulation circuit 50 includes a first circulation piping and a first circulation pump 51.

[0054] The first circulation piping connects the heat exchanger 40, the heat recovery unit 23, and the hot water storage tank 11 in a ring shape. An outlet for the hot water storage tank 11 is provided at the bottom of the tank, and the route of the first circulation piping from the hot water storage tank 11 to the heat recovery unit 23 is connected to this outlet. An inlet for the hot water storage tank 11 is provided at the top of the tank, and the route of the first circulation piping from the heat exchanger 40 to the tank 11 is connected to this inlet.

[0055] The first circulation pump 51 may be installed anywhere along the path of the first circulation piping. In the example shown in Figure 1, the first circulation pump 51 is installed in the path between the hot water storage tank 11 and the heat recovery unit 23. Alternatively, the first circulation pump 51 may be installed in the path between the heat recovery unit 23 and the heat exchanger 40, or in the path between the heat exchanger 40 and the hot water storage tank 11.

[0056] The first circulation pump 51 circulates water sequentially to the heat exchanger 40, the heat recovery unit 23, and the hot water storage tank 11. The power of the first circulation pump 51 sends low-temperature water from the hot water storage tank 11 to the heat recovery unit 23. This low-temperature water is heated by the heat recovery unit 23. The power of the first circulation pump 51 sends high-temperature water from the heat recovery unit 23 to the heat exchanger 40. The heat exchanger 40 heats the heat transfer medium with the heat from the high-temperature water, causing the temperature of the heat transfer medium to rise and the temperature of the high-temperature water to fall. The power of the first circulation pump 51 sends the high-temperature water from the heat exchanger 40 to the hot water storage tank 11.

[0057] Because the water is circulated sequentially through the first circulation circuit 50 to the hot water storage tank 11, the heat recovery unit 23, and the heat exchanger 40, the water does not flow into the dehumidification module 30. Therefore, clean, high-temperature water is supplied from the hot water storage tank 11 to the plumbing equipment.

[0058] The second circulation circuit 60 circulates a heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33. The heat transfer medium is, for example, water or oil. By employing the heat exchanger 40, the substance used as the heat transfer medium circulated by the second circulation circuit 60 can be different from the water circulated by the first circulation circuit 50. By increasing the heat capacity per unit volume and heat transfer coefficient of the substance used as the heat transfer medium, the overall utilization efficiency of the combined heat and power air conditioning system is improved.

[0059] The second circulation circuit 60 includes a second circulation piping, a second circulation pump 61, a flow control valve 62, a first temperature measuring device 63, a second temperature measuring device 64, and a controller 69. The second circulation piping connects the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33 in a ring shape.

[0060] The second circulation pump 61 and the flow control valve 62 may be installed anywhere along the path of the second circulation piping. In the example shown in Figure 1, the second circulation pump 61 is installed in the path from the outlet of the heat exchanger 40 to the inlet of the heater 33, and the flow control valve 62 is installed in the path from the outlet of the heater 33 to the inlet of the heat exchanger 40. Alternatively, both the second circulation pump 61 and the flow control valve 62 may be installed in the path from the outlet of the heat exchanger 40 to the inlet of the heater 33. Both the second circulation pump 61 and the flow control valve 62 may be installed in the path from the outlet of the heater 33 to the inlet of the heat exchanger 40. The flow control valve 62 may be installed in the path from the outlet of the heat exchanger 40 to the inlet of the heater 33, and the second circulation pump 61 may be installed in the path from the outlet of the heater 33 to the inlet of the heat exchanger 40.

[0061] The second circulation pump 61 circulates the fluid between the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33. The second circulation pump 61 powers the fluid transfer medium from the heater 33 to the heat exchanger 40. The heat exchanger 40 heats the fluid transfer medium with the heat of the high-temperature water, causing the temperature of the fluid transfer medium to rise and the temperature of the high-temperature water to fall. The second circulation pump 61 powers the fluid transfer medium again, sending it from the heat exchanger 40 to the heater 33. The heater 33 heats the air in the humidification channel with the heat of the fluid transfer medium, causing the temperature of the air to rise and the temperature of the fluid transfer medium to fall.

[0062] The flow control valve 62 is a solenoid valve or an electric valve. The flow control valve 62 adjusts the flow rate of the circulating heat transfer medium.

[0063] The temperature measuring instruments 63 and 64 are temperature sensors such as thermistors, thermocouples, or resistance thermometers. The first temperature measuring instrument 63 measures the temperature of the heat transfer medium sent from the heat exchanger 40 to the heater 33. The first temperature measuring instrument 63 outputs a signal representing the measured temperature of the heat transfer medium to the controller 69. The first temperature measuring instrument 63 may be installed anywhere along the path from the outlet of the heat exchanger 40 to the inlet of the heater 33. The first temperature measuring instrument 63 may also be installed at the inlet of the heater 33. Hereinafter, the temperature of the heat transfer medium measured by the first temperature measuring instrument 63 will be referred to as the first measured temperature.

[0064] The second temperature measuring device 64 measures the temperature of the heat transfer medium sent from the heater 33 to the heat exchanger 40. The second temperature measuring device 64 outputs a signal representing the measured temperature of the heat transfer medium to the controller 69. The second temperature measuring device 64 may be installed anywhere along the path between the outlet of the heater 33 and the inlet of the heat exchanger 40. The second temperature measuring device 64 may also be installed at the outlet of the heater 33. Hereinafter, the temperature of the heat transfer medium measured by the second temperature measuring device 64 will be referred to as the second measured temperature.

[0065] The controller 69 includes a signal processing circuit, an AD converter, a microcontroller, and a drive circuit. The controller 69 controls the flow control valve 62 based on a first measured temperature measured by a first temperature measuring instrument 63 and a second measured temperature measured by a second temperature measuring instrument 64. This adjusts the flow rate of the circulating heat transfer medium. Specifically, this is as follows: (1) or (2).

[0066] (1) The controller 69 calculates the difference by subtracting the second measured temperature from the first measured temperature. The controller 69 periodically compares the difference with a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold is, for example, 25°C. The comparison period may be constant or variable.

[0067] If the difference in the comparison is equal to a predetermined threshold, the controller 69 maintains the state of the flow control valve 62, and the flow control valve 62 maintains the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference in the comparison exceeds the predetermined threshold, the controller 69 controls the flow control valve 62, causing it to increase the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. An increase in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium reduces the heat exchange efficiency in the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33, and the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied to the heater 33 and the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater 33 becomes smaller. If the difference in the comparison is less than the predetermined threshold, the controller 69 controls the flow control valve 62, causing it to decrease the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. A decrease in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium increases the heat exchange efficiency in the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33, and the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied to the heater 33 and the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater 33 becomes larger.

[0068] (2) The controller 69 calculates the difference by subtracting the second measured temperature from the first measured temperature. The controller 69 periodically compares the difference with predetermined upper and lower thresholds. The upper threshold is higher than the lower threshold. For example, the upper threshold is 26 [°C] and the lower threshold is 24 [°C]. The comparison period may be constant or variable.

[0069] If the difference in the comparison is below the upper threshold and above the lower threshold, the controller 69 maintains the state of the flow control valve 62, and the flow control valve 62 maintains the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference in the comparison exceeds the upper threshold, the controller 69 controls the flow control valve 62, causing it to increase the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. An increase in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium reduces the heat exchange efficiency in the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33, and the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied to the heater 33 and the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater 33 becomes smaller. If the difference in the comparison is below the lower threshold, the controller 69 controls the flow control valve 62, causing it to decrease the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. A decrease in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium increases the heat exchange efficiency in the heat exchanger 40 and the heater 33, and the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied to the heater 33 and the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater 33 becomes larger.

[0070] The difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied to the heater 33 and the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater 33 is kept nearly constant by adjusting the flow rate of the heat transfer medium as described in (1) or (2) above. As a result, the temperature gradient of the heat transfer medium flowing inside the heater 33 becomes appropriate, and heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and air becomes highly efficient. Furthermore, the heat exchange and heating conditions of the heater 33 are made appropriate in accordance with the environment, specifically the temperature of the circulating heat transfer medium, the temperature of the air supplied to the heater 33, the flow rate of the air passing through the heater 33, and the heat exchange conditions of the heat exchanger 40. These factors contribute to the proper operation of the heater 33.

[0071] In the above description, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is adjusted by the controller 69 controlling the flow control valve 62. Alternatively, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium may be adjusted by the controller 69 controlling the second circulation pump 61. The flow rate of the heat transfer medium may also be adjusted by the controller 69 controlling both the flow control valve 62 and the second circulation pump 61.

[0072] In recent years, there has been a growing demand for the realization of a decarbonized society through the promotion of carbon neutrality, which aims to achieve virtually zero carbon dioxide emissions, and for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the construction industry, efforts are also being made to use wood, which reduces carbon dioxide emissions, for buildings. This combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system effectively utilizes the waste heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module 20 to dehumidify the indoor air. Therefore, this CHP air conditioning system can contribute to the promotion of carbon neutrality, the realization of a decarbonized society, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

[0073] <<6. Variation>> As shown in Figure 2, the first circulation circuit 50 may circulate water between the heat exchanger 40 and the hot water storage tank 11. In this case, the first circulation piping of the first circulation circuit 50 connects the heat exchanger 40 and the hot water storage tank 11 in a ring shape. An outlet of the hot water storage tank 11 is provided at the top of the hot water storage tank 11, and the route of the first circulation piping from the hot water storage tank 11 to the heat exchanger 40 is connected to this outlet. An inlet of the hot water storage tank 11 is provided in the middle or bottom of the hot water storage tank 11, and the route of the first circulation piping from the heat exchanger 40 to the hot water storage tank 11 is connected to this inlet.

[0074] The first circulation pump 51 may be installed anywhere along the path of the first circulation piping. In the example shown in Figure 2, the first circulation pump 51 is located in the path between the outlet of the hot water storage tank 11 and the inlet of the heat exchanger 40. Alternatively, the first circulation pump 51 may be located in the path between the outlet of the heat exchanger 40 and the inlet of the hot water storage tank 11.

[0075] The first circulation pump 51 circulates water between the heat exchanger 40 and the hot water storage tank 11. The power of the first circulation pump 51 sends high-temperature water from the hot water storage tank 11 to the heat exchanger 40. The heat exchanger 40 heats the heat transfer medium with the heat from the high-temperature water, causing the temperature of the heat transfer medium to rise and the temperature of the high-temperature water to fall. The power of the first circulation pump 51 sends high-temperature water from the heat exchanger 40 to the hot water storage tank 11.

[0076] In this modified configuration, the heat exchanger further comprises a third circulation circuit 55. The third circulation circuit 55 is provided for heating the water in the hot water storage tank 11. The third circulation circuit 55 circulates the water between the heat recovery unit 23 and the hot water storage tank 11. The third circulation circuit 55 has a third circulation pipe and a third circulation pump 56. The third circulation pipe of the third circulation circuit 55 connects the heat recovery unit 23 and the hot water storage tank 11 in a ring shape. An outlet of the hot water storage tank 11 is provided at the bottom of the hot water storage tank 11, and the route of the third circulation pipe from the hot water storage tank 11 to the heat recovery unit 23 is connected to this outlet. An inlet of the hot water storage tank 11 is provided at the top of the hot water storage tank 11, and the route of the third circulation pipe from the heat recovery unit 23 to the hot water storage tank 11 is connected to this inlet.

[0077] The third circulation pump 56 may be installed anywhere along the path of the third circulation piping. In the example shown in Figure 2, the third circulation pump 56 is located in the path between the outlet of the hot water storage tank 11 and the inlet of the heat recovery unit 23. Alternatively, the third circulation pump 56 may be located in the path between the outlet of the heat recovery unit 23 and the inlet of the hot water storage tank 11.

[0078] The third circulation pump 56 circulates water between the heat recovery unit 23 and the hot water storage tank 11. The third circulation pump 56 powers the delivery of low-temperature water from the hot water storage tank 11 to the heat recovery unit 23. This low-temperature water is then heated by the heat recovery unit 23. The third circulation pump 56 powers the delivery of high-temperature water from the heat recovery unit 23 to the hot water storage tank 11.

[0079] The third circulation pump 56 operates when the fuel cell power generation module 20 is in operation. The first circulation pump 51 operates when the humidification module 30 is in operation. Even if the third circulation pump 56 and the fuel cell power generation module 20 are not in operation, if the first circulation pump 51 and the humidification module 30 are in operation, the thermal energy of the water in the hot water storage tank 11 is used to heat the air with the heater 33.

[0080] <Second Embodiment> Figures 3 and 4 are block diagrams of a combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system according to the second embodiment. Components common to both the CPC air conditioning system of the second embodiment and the CPC air conditioning system of the first embodiment are denoted by a common two-digit number.

[0081] The combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system of the second embodiment is installed in dwelling units of apartment buildings, detached houses, or small businesses. The CPC air conditioning system of the second embodiment is a ventilation-type dehumidifier / humidifier using Type 1 ventilation. That is, as shown in Figure 3, in summer or the rainy season, the CPC dehumidifies the air supplied to the air-conditioned object 190 installed indoors while providing Type 1 ventilation to the air-conditioned object 190. As shown in Figure 4, in winter or the dry season, the CPC humidifies the air supplied to the air-conditioned object 190 while providing Type 1 ventilation to the air-conditioned object 190. In addition, the CPC may dehumidify as shown in Figure 3 when it is sunny and humidify as shown in Figure 4 when it is rainy. Furthermore, the CPC may dehumidify as shown in Figure 3 when the humidity of the outside air is above a predetermined threshold and humidify as shown in Figure 4 when the humidity of the outside air is below a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, when the second air conditioning unit, which can switch between cooling and heating modes, is cooling the air-conditioned object 190, the combined heat and power supply (CPC) unit may dehumidify as shown in Figure 3, and when the second air conditioning unit is heating the air-conditioned object 190, the CPC unit may humidify as shown in Figure 4.

[0082] The combined heat and power (CH) air conditioning system comprises a hot water storage tank 111, an auxiliary heater 119, a fuel cell power generation module 120, a dehumidification / humidification module 130, fans 170, 180, a heat exchanger 185, directional control valves 186, 187, and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger has a heat exchanger 140, a first circulation circuit 150, and a second circulation circuit 160. Similar to the first embodiment, the entire CH air conditioning system of the second embodiment may be installed indoors. Part of the CH air conditioning system of the second embodiment may be installed indoors, and the remaining part may be installed outdoors.

[0083] The hot water storage tank 111 and the auxiliary heater 119 are the same as the hot water storage tank 11 and the auxiliary heater 19 in the first embodiment.

[0084] The fuel cell power generation module 120 is the same as the fuel cell power generation module 20 in the first embodiment. The fuel cell power generation module 120 has a reformer 121, a fuel cell 122, a heat recovery unit 123, and auxiliary equipment, similar to the fuel cell power generation module 20 in the first embodiment. The reformer 121, fuel cell 122, heat recovery unit 123, and auxiliary equipment in the second embodiment are the same as the reformer 21, fuel cell 22, heat recovery unit 23, and auxiliary equipment in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0085] The dehumidification / humidification module 130 is the same as the dehumidification module 30 in the first embodiment. The dehumidification / humidification module 130, like the dehumidification module 30 in the first embodiment, comprises a housing, a moisture absorption / release rotor 131, a motor 132, a heater 133 for preheating, and a cooler 134 for precooling.

[0086] One end of the dehumidification channel of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 is connected to the second port of the directional control valve 187 via a duct. The other end of the dehumidification channel of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 is connected to the first inlet port of the heat exchanger 185 via a duct. One end of the humidification channel of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 is connected to the second outlet port of the heat exchanger 185 via a duct. The other end of the humidification channel of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 is connected to the fourth port of the directional control valve 186 via a duct.

[0087] The heat exchanger 185 is either a total heat exchanger or a sensible heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 185 has a first inlet port, a first outlet port, a second inlet port, a second inlet port, and a heat exchange element. If the heat exchanger 185 is a total heat exchanger, the heat exchanger 185 exchanges heat and moisture between the air flowing from the first inlet port through the heat exchange element to the first outlet port and the air flowing from the second inlet port through the heat exchange element to the second outlet port. If the heat exchanger 185 is a sensible heat exchanger, the heat exchanger 185 exchanges heat between the air flowing from the first inlet port through the heat exchange element to the first outlet port and the air flowing from the second inlet port through the heat exchange element to the second outlet port.

[0088] The first inlet port of the heat exchanger 185 is connected to the other end of the dehumidification channel of the dehumidification / humidification module 130. The first outlet port of the heat exchanger 185 is connected to the second port of the directional control valve 186. The second inlet port of the heat exchanger 185 is connected to the fourth port of the directional control valve 187 via a duct. The second outlet port of the heat exchanger 185 is connected to one end of the humidification channel of the dehumidification / humidification module 130.

[0089] Directional control valves 186 and 187 are, for example, four-way valves. The first port of the directional control valve 186 is connected via a duct to an exhaust port installed on the exterior wall of a dwelling, detached house, or small business establishment. The second port of the directional control valve 186 is connected via a duct to the first outlet port of the heat exchanger 185. The third port of the directional control valve 186 is connected via a duct to an outlet installed on the air-conditioned object 190. The fourth port of the directional control valve 186 is connected via a duct to the other end of the humidification flow path of the dehumidification / humidification module 130. The directional control valve 186 can be switched between a first state as shown in Figure 3 and a second state as shown in Figure 4. When the directional control valve 186 is in the first state as shown in Figure 3, a flow path is established from the first port to the second port, and a flow path is established from the third port to the fourth port. Therefore, when the directional control valve 186 is in the first state, a path is established from the exhaust port of the outer wall, through the directional control valve 186, to the first outlet port of the heat exchanger 185, and a path is also established from the air outlet of the air-conditioned object 190, through the directional control valve 186, to the end of the humidification flow path of the dehumidification / humidification module 130.

[0090] The first port of the directional control valve 187 is connected via a duct to an air intake installed on the exterior wall of a dwelling, detached house, or small business establishment. The second port of the directional control valve 187 is connected via a duct to one end of the dehumidification flow path of the dehumidification / humidification module 130. The third port of the directional control valve 187 is connected via a duct to an air intake installed on the air-conditioned object 190. The fourth port of the directional control valve 187 is connected via a duct to the second inlet port of the heat exchanger 185. The directional control valve 187 can be switched between a third state as shown in Figure 3 and a second state as shown in Figure 4. When the directional control valve 187 is in the third state as shown in Figure 3, a flow path is established from the first port to the second port, and a flow path is established from the third port to the fourth port. Therefore, when the directional control valve 187 is in the third state, a path is established from the intake port of the outer wall to one end of the dehumidification flow path of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 via the directional control valve 187 and fan 170, and a path is established from the intake port of the air-conditioned object 190 to the second inlet port of the heat exchanger 185 via the directional control valve 187 and fan 180. When the directional control valve 187 is in the fourth state as shown in Figure 4, a flow path is established from the first port to the fourth port, and a flow path is established from the third port to the second port. Therefore, when the directional control valve 187 is in the fourth state, a path is established from the intake port of the outer wall to the second inlet port of the heat exchanger 185 via the directional control valve 187 and fan 180, and a path is established from the intake port of the air-conditioned object 190 to one end of the dehumidification flow path of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 via the directional control valve 187 and fan 170.

[0091] Fans 170 and 180 may be axial fans or centrifugal fans. Fan 170 may be installed anywhere along the path from the second port of the directional control valve 187 through the dehumidification passage of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 to the first inlet port of the heat exchanger 185. In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, fan 170 is installed between the second port of the directional control valve 187 and one end of the dehumidification passage of the dehumidification / humidification module 130. Fan 170 blows air from the second port of the directional control valve 187 through the dehumidification passage of the dehumidification / humidification module 130 toward the first inlet port of the heat exchanger 185.

[0092] Fan 180 is located between the fourth port of the directional control valve 187 and the second inlet port of the heat exchanger 185. Fan 180 blows air from the fourth port of the directional control valve 187 toward the second inlet port of the heat exchanger 185.

[0093] As shown in Figure 3, when the directional control valve 186 is in the first state and the directional control valve 187 is in the third state, outdoor air is sent to the dehumidification / humidification module 130 by the fan 170. As this air passes through the cooler 134 inside the dehumidification / humidification module 130, it is cooled by the cooler 134, causing its humidity to increase. As the air pre-cooled by the cooler 134 passes through one half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131, it is dehumidified by that half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131. The dehumidified air passes through the heat exchanger 185 and is blown out from the outlet to the air-conditioned object 190.

[0094] Air from the air-conditioned area 190 is sent by the fan 180 through the heat exchanger 185 to the dehumidification / humidification module 130. As the air passes through the heater 133 inside the dehumidification / humidification module 130, it is heated by the heater 133, reducing its humidity. As the air preheated by the heater 133 passes through the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131, it is humidified by the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131, and that half is regenerated. The humidified air is discharged outdoors through the exhaust port.

[0095] In the heat exchanger 185, heat is exchanged between the air supplied from outdoors to the air-conditioned object 190 and the air discharged from the air-conditioned object 190 to the outdoors. Moisture may also be exchanged between the air supplied from outdoors to the air-conditioned object 190 and the air discharged from the air-conditioned object 190 to the outdoors.

[0096] As shown in Figure 4, when the directional control valve 186 is in the second state and the directional control valve 187 is in the fourth state, the air from the air-conditioned object 190 is sent to the dehumidification / humidification module 130 by the fan 170. As this air passes through the cooler 134 inside the dehumidification / humidification module 130, the air is cooled by the cooler 134, causing its humidity to increase. As the air pre-cooled by the cooler 134 passes through one half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131, the air is dehumidified by that half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131, and that half is regenerated. The dehumidified air is discharged outdoors through the exhaust port via the heat exchanger 185.

[0097] The switching control of the directional control valves 186 and 187 may be performed by the controller 169. Alternatively, the switching control of the directional control valves 186 and 187 may be performed by a switch operated by the user.

[0098] Outdoor air is sent by fan 180 through heat exchanger 185 to dehumidification / humidification module 130. As this air passes through heater 133 inside the dehumidification / humidification module 130, it is heated by heater 133, reducing its humidity. As the air preheated by heater 133 passes through the other half of moisture absorption / release rotor 131, it is humidified by the other half of the moisture absorption / release rotor 131. The humidified air is then blown out of the outlet to the air-conditioned object 190.

[0099] In the heat exchanger 185, heat is exchanged between the air supplied from outdoors to the air-conditioned object 190 and the air discharged from the air-conditioned object 190 to the outdoors. Moisture may also be exchanged between the air supplied from outdoors to the air-conditioned object 190 and the air discharged from the air-conditioned object 190 to the outdoors.

[0100] The heat exchanger 140, the first circulation circuit 150, and the second circulation circuit 160 of the heat exchange device are the same as the heat exchanger 40, the first circulation circuit 50, and the second circulation circuit 60 of the heat exchange device in the first embodiment.

[0101] The first circulation pump 151 of the first circulation circuit 150 is the same as the first circulation pump 51 of the first circulation circuit 50 in the first embodiment.

[0102] The second circulation circuit 160, like the second circulation circuit 60 in the first embodiment, includes a second circulation piping, a second circulation pump 161, a flow control valve 162, a first temperature measuring device 163, a second temperature measuring device 164, and a controller 169. The second circulation piping, second circulation pump 161, flow control valve 162, first temperature measuring device 163, second temperature measuring device 164, and controller 169 in the second embodiment are the same as the second circulation piping, second circulation pump 61, flow control valve 62, first temperature measuring device 63, second temperature measuring device 64, and controller 69 in the first embodiment.

[0103] The controller 169 controls the flow control valve 162 based on a first measured temperature measured by the first temperature measuring instrument 163 and a second measured temperature measured by the second temperature measuring instrument 164, similar to the controller 69 in the first embodiment. The threshold, upper threshold, and lower threshold values ​​in the second embodiment may be equal to or different from the threshold, upper threshold, and lower threshold values ​​in the first embodiment. The threshold, upper threshold, and lower threshold values ​​when the directional control valve 186 is in the first state and the directional control valve 187 is in the third state may be equal to or different from the threshold, upper threshold, and lower threshold values ​​when the directional control valve 186 is in the second state and the directional control valve 187 is in the fourth state.

[0104] In the second embodiment, as with the modification of the first embodiment, the first circulation circuit 150 may circulate water between the heat exchanger 140 and the hot water storage tank 111, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. In this case, a third circulation circuit 155 is provided for heating the water in the hot water storage tank 111, and the third circulation circuit 155 circulates water between the heat recovery unit 123 and the hot water storage tank 111. The third circulation circuit 155 has a third circulation pipe and a third circulation pump 156, similar to the third circulation circuit 55 in the modification of the first embodiment. The third circulation pipe in the modification of the second embodiment is the same as the third circulation pipe in the modification of the first embodiment. The third circulation pump 156 in the modification of the second embodiment is the same as the third circulation pump 56 in the modification of the first embodiment. Note that in the case of Figure 5, the air supplied to the air-conditioned object 190 is dehumidified, and in the case of Figure 6, the air supplied to the air-conditioned object 190 is humidified.

[0105] <Third Embodiment> Figure 7 is a block diagram of the combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system of the third embodiment. Components common to the CPC air conditioning system of the third embodiment and the CPC air conditioning system of the first embodiment are denoted by a common two-digit number.

[0106] The combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system of the third embodiment is installed in dwelling units of apartment buildings, detached houses, or small businesses. The combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system of the third embodiment is a Type 1 ventilation system that provides Type 1 ventilation to the air-conditioned object 290 installed indoors.

[0107] The combined heat and power (CHP) air conditioning system comprises a hot water storage tank 211, an auxiliary heater 219, a fuel cell power generation module 220, fans 270 and 280, a heat exchanger 285, and a heat exchange device. The heat exchange device has a heat exchanger 240, a first circulation circuit 250, and a second circulation circuit 260.

[0108] The hot water storage tank 211 and the auxiliary heater 219 are the same as the hot water storage tank 11 and the auxiliary heater 19 in the first embodiment.

[0109] The fuel cell power generation module 220 is the same as the fuel cell power generation module 20 in the first embodiment. The fuel cell power generation module 220 has a reformer 221, a fuel cell 222, a heat recovery unit 223, and auxiliary equipment, similar to the fuel cell power generation module 20 in the first embodiment. The reformer 221, fuel cell 222, heat recovery unit 223, and auxiliary equipment in the third embodiment are the same as the reformer 21, fuel cell 22, heat recovery unit 23, and auxiliary equipment in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0110] Fans 270 and 280 may be axial fans or centrifugal fans. Fan 270 may be installed anywhere along the path from the intake port provided in the air-conditioned object 290 to the exhaust port provided in the exterior wall of a dwelling unit in an apartment building, a detached house, or a small business establishment. Fan 270 sends the air from the air-conditioned object 290 to the outside.

[0111] The fan 280 may be installed anywhere along the path from the air outlet provided in the air-conditioned object 290 to the air intake provided in the exterior wall of a dwelling unit in an apartment building, a detached house, or a small business establishment. The fan 280 sends outdoor air to the air-conditioned object.

[0112] The heater 233 may be installed anywhere along the path from the air outlet of the air-conditioned object 290 to the air intake provided in the exterior wall of a dwelling unit in an apartment building, a detached house, or a small business establishment. In the example shown in Figure 7, the heater 233 is installed between the fan 280 and the air outlet of the air-conditioned object 290. The heater 233 may also be installed at or near the air outlet of the air-conditioned object 290. As the air supplied by the fan 180 passes through the heater 233, the air is heated by the heater 233. The heated air is then blown out into the air-conditioned object 290. As a result, the air inside the air-conditioned object 290 is kept warm or heated.

[0113] A heat exchanger may be installed at the intersection of the path from the air intake in the exterior wall to the air outlet of the air-conditioned unit 290 and the path from the air-conditioned unit 290 to the exhaust port in the exterior wall. The heat exchanger is either a total heat exchanger or a sensible heat exchanger. The heat exchanger exchanges heat between the air sent from the air intake in the exterior wall to the air outlet of the air-conditioned unit 290 and the air sent from the air-conditioned unit 290 to the exhaust port in the exterior wall. The heat exchanger may also exchange moisture between the air sent from the air intake in the exterior wall to the air outlet of the air-conditioned unit 290 and the air sent from the air-conditioned unit 290 to the exhaust port in the exterior wall.

[0114] The heat exchanger 240, the first circulation circuit 250, and the second circulation circuit 260 of the heat exchange device are the same as the heat exchanger 40, the first circulation circuit 50, and the second circulation circuit 60 of the heat exchange device in the first embodiment.

[0115] The first circulation pump 251 of the first circulation circuit 250 is the same as the first circulation pump 51 of the first circulation circuit 50 in the first embodiment.

[0116] The second circulation circuit 260, like the second circulation circuit 60 in the first embodiment, includes a second circulation piping, a second circulation pump 261, a flow control valve 262, a first temperature measuring device 263, a second temperature measuring device 264, and a controller 269. The second circulation piping, second circulation pump 261, flow control valve 262, first temperature measuring device 263, second temperature measuring device 264, and controller 269 in the second embodiment are the same as the second circulation piping, second circulation pump 61, flow control valve 62, first temperature measuring device 63, second temperature measuring device 64, and controller 69 in the first embodiment.

[0117] The second circulation pump 261 may be stopped in the summer and operated in the winter. The second circulation pump 261 may be stopped when the temperature inside the air-conditioned object 290 exceeds a predetermined first threshold, and may be operated when the temperature inside the air-conditioned object 290 is below the first threshold. The second circulation pump 261 may be stopped when the outdoor temperature exceeds a predetermined second threshold, and may be operated when the temperature inside the air-conditioned object 290 is below the second threshold. The first and second thresholds may be constants or variables. The operation and stopping of the second circulation pump 261 may be switched on and off by turning a switch on and off.

[0118] The combined heat and power (CPC) air conditioning system of the third embodiment may be a Type 2 ventilation system or a Type 3 ventilation system. If the CPC air conditioning system is a Type 2 ventilation system, fan 270 is not installed. If the CPC air conditioning system is a Type 2 ventilation system, fan 280 is not installed.

[0119] In the third embodiment, as with the modification of the first embodiment, the first circulation circuit 250 may circulate water between the heat exchanger 240 and the hot water storage tank 211, as shown in Figure 8. In this case, a third circulation circuit 255 is provided for heating the water in the hot water storage tank 211, and the third circulation circuit 255 circulates water between the heat recovery unit 223 and the hot water storage tank 211. The third circulation circuit 255 has a third circulation pipe and a third circulation pump 256, similar to the third circulation circuit 55 in the modification of the first embodiment. The third circulation pipe in the modification of the third embodiment is the same as the third circulation pipe in the modification of the first embodiment. The third circulation pump 256 in the modification of the third embodiment is the same as the third circulation pump 56 in the modification of the first embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 11,111,211 hot water storage tanks 20,120,220 Fuel cell power generation modules 23,123,223 Heat recovery unit 33,133,233 Heater 40,140,240 Heat exchanger 50,150,250 1st circulation circuit 55,155,255 Third circulation circuit 60,160,260 2nd circulation circuit 61,161,261 Second circulation pump 62,162,262 Flow control valve 63,163,263 1st temperature measuring device 64,164,264 Second temperature measuring device 80,170,180,270,280 fans 90,190,290 Air conditioning targets

Claims

1. A heat exchanger that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, In order, the heat exchanger, the heat recovery unit provided in the fuel cell power generation module and which heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module, and the first circulation circuit which circulates the water to a hot water storage tank for storing the water, The system comprises a heater that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by a fan and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation circuit that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger and the heat exchanger, The second circulation circuit is A first measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater, A second measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger, A flow regulator that adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument, has heat exchange equipment.

2. A heat exchanger that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, A first circulation circuit circulates the water between the heat exchanger and the hot water storage tank that stores the water, A heater that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by a fan and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation circuit that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger and the heat exchanger, The system includes a third circulation circuit that circulates the water between a heat recovery unit, which is installed in the fuel cell power generation module and heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module, and the hot water storage tank, The second circulation circuit is A first measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater, A second measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger, A flow regulator that adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument, has heat exchange equipment.

3. The flow regulator adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on the difference obtained by subtracting the second measured temperature from the first measured temperature. The heat exchange apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. When the difference is equal to the threshold, the flow regulator maintains the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference exceeds the threshold, the flow regulator increases the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference is less than the threshold, the flow regulator reduces the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. The heat exchange apparatus according to claim 3.

5. When the difference is greater than or equal to a lower threshold, and less than or equal to an upper threshold that is greater than the lower threshold, the flow regulator maintains the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference exceeds the upper threshold, the flow regulator increases the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. If the difference is less than the lower threshold, the flow regulator reduces the flow rate of the heat transfer medium. The heat exchange apparatus according to claim 3.

6. The heater is located upstream of the airflow with respect to the desiccant rotor. The heat exchange apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The aforementioned fan is a fan used for Type 1 ventilation, Type 2 ventilation, or Type 3 ventilation. The heat exchange apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

8. A fan for ventilating the air being conditioned or for taking in outside air, A heat exchanger that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, A heater that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by the fan and the heat transfer medium, A fuel cell power generation module having a heat recovery unit that generates electricity from fuel gas and uses the heat generated by the power generation to heat the heat transfer medium, A hot water storage tank that stores the water with a temperature gradient applied to it, A first circulation circuit that circulates the water to the heat exchanger, the heat recovery unit, and the hot water storage tank, in that order, The system includes a second circulation circuit that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heater and the heat exchanger, The second circulation circuit is A first measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater, A second measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger, A flow regulator that adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument, has Air conditioner.

9. A fan for ventilating the air being conditioned or for taking in outside air, A heat exchanger that heats the heat transfer medium by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water, A heater that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air supplied by the fan and the heat transfer medium, A fuel cell power generation module having a heat recovery unit that generates electricity from fuel gas and uses the heat generated by the power generation to heat the heat transfer medium, A hot water storage tank that stores the water with a temperature gradient applied to it, A first circulation circuit that circulates the water between the heat exchanger and the hot water storage tank, A second circulation circuit that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heater and the heat exchanger, The system includes a third circulation circuit that circulates the water between the heat recovery unit and the hot water storage tank, The second circulation circuit is A first measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater, A second measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger, A flow regulator that adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium based on a first measured temperature measured by the first measuring instrument and a second measured temperature measured by the second measuring instrument, has Air conditioner.

10. A heating method that heats the air blown by a fan, A heating process in which the heat transfer medium is heated by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water using a heat exchanger, In order, the process includes a heat exchanger, a heat recovery unit provided in the fuel cell power generation module that heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module, and a first circulation process that circulates the water to a hot water storage tank that stores the water. A heater that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation step that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger and the heat transfer medium. A flow rate adjustment step that adjusts the flow rate of the heat medium based on the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater and the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger, A heating method that includes [specific heating methods].

11. A heating method that heats the air blown by a fan, A heating process in which the heat transfer medium is heated by exchanging heat between the heat transfer medium and water using a heat exchanger, A first circulation step involves circulating the water between the heat exchanger and the hot water storage tank that stores the water, A heater that heats the air by exchanging heat between the air and the heat transfer medium, and a second circulation step that circulates the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger and the heat transfer medium. A third circulation step involves circulating the water between a heat recovery unit, which is provided in the fuel cell power generation module and heats the water using the heat generated by the fuel cell power generation module, and the hot water storage tank. A flow rate adjustment step that adjusts the flow rate of the heat medium based on the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater and the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger, A heating method that includes [specific heating methods].

12. The aforementioned flow rate adjustment step is A step of maintaining the flow rate of the heat medium when the difference obtained by subtracting the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger from the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater is equal to a threshold, If the difference exceeds the threshold, the process of increasing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is performed. If the difference is less than the threshold, the process of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium, The heating method according to claim 11, which includes the following:

13. The aforementioned flow rate adjustment step is A step of maintaining the flow rate of the heat medium when the difference obtained by subtracting the temperature of the heat medium discharged from the heater to the heat exchanger from the temperature of the heat medium supplied from the heat exchanger to the heater is greater than or equal to a lower threshold, and less than or equal to an upper threshold that is greater than the lower threshold, If the difference exceeds the upper threshold, the process of increasing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is performed. If the difference is less than the lower threshold, the process of reducing the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is performed. The heating method according to claim 10, which includes the following:

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