air conditioner

Abstract

To provide an air conditioner that can improve cooling capacity. [Solution] The air conditioner comprises a housing having a first air outlet and a second air outlet, a first flow path communicating with the first air outlet, a second flow path communicating with the second air outlet, a sensible heat exchanger that exchanges sensible heat between first air flowing through the first flow path and second air flowing through the second flow path, a first vaporization filter that cools the first air with the latent heat of water, and a second vaporization filter that cools the second air with the latent heat of water, wherein the first vaporization filter is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the flow direction of the first air, and the second vaporization filter is provided upstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the flow direction of the second air.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a vaporization cooling type air conditioner that sucks indoor air, utilizes the heat of vaporization of water to lower the ambient temperature, and blows out the cooled air into the room (for example, Patent Document 1). The air conditioner (cooling fan) of Patent Document 1 includes a blowing means disposed in a casing, a first flow path that communicates an intake port and a first blowout port and guides the air flow generated by the blowing means to the first blowout port, a second flow path that communicates the intake port and a second blowout port and guides the air flow generated by the blowing means to the second blowout port, and a vaporization means disposed in the second flow path that cools the air flowing through the second flow path by the heat of vaporization of water. A heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the air flow cooled by the vaporization means in the second flow path and the air flow flowing through the first flow path is provided. In the second flow path provided with the vaporization means, on the downstream side of the vaporization means, air with increased absolute humidity due to the atomized water (unevaporated sprayed water) sprayed by the vaporization means and the vaporized water (evaporated sprayed water) flows. This air with increased humidity is blown out as exhaust from the second blowout port that is the outlet of the second flow path. The air flow flowing through the first flow path cooled via the heat exchanger is blown out as supply air from the first blowout port into the air-conditioned space.

[0003] In the air conditioner of Patent Document 1, the air flowing through the second flow path blown by the blowing means passes through a plurality of tubes of the sensible heat exchanger, and the air flowing through the first flow path blown by the blowing means passes around the plurality of tubes, whereby heat exchange is performed between the air flowing through the second flow path and the air flowing through the first flow path.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] However, in the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, cooling of the air supplied to the room is performed only by heat exchange between the air that has passed through the vaporization means and the sensible heat exchanger, and therefore it cannot be cooled efficiently.

[0006] This invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an air conditioner that can improve cooling capacity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a housing having a first air outlet and a second air outlet; a first flow path communicating with the first air outlet; a second flow path communicating with the second air outlet; a sensible heat exchanger that exchanges sensible heat between first air flowing through the first flow path and second air flowing through the second flow path; a first vaporization filter that cools the first air with the latent heat of water; and a second vaporization filter that cools the second air with the latent heat of water, wherein the first vaporization filter is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the flow direction of the first air, and the second vaporization filter is provided upstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the flow direction of the second air.

[0008] In this embodiment, the air conditioner includes two flow paths, a first flow path and a second flow path, and a sensible heat exchanger that exchanges sensible heat between the first air and the second air flowing through these flow paths. The air conditioner further includes a first vaporization filter and a second vaporization filter. The first air passing through the first vaporization filter is cooled by the latent heat (heat of vaporization) of the water permeating the first vaporization filter, and the second air passing through the second vaporization filter is cooled by the latent heat (heat of vaporization) of the water permeating the second vaporization filter. Since the second vaporization filter is located upstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the flow direction of the second air, it flows into the sensible heat exchanger after being cooled by the heat of vaporization. The first air that flows into the sensible heat exchanger exchanges heat with the second air cooled by the second vaporization filter via the sensible heat exchanger and is cooled. The first air flowing out of the sensible heat exchanger is further cooled by a first vaporization filter located downstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the direction of the first airflow, and then blown out as supply air (SA) into the conditioned space from the first outlet. Therefore, the air conditioner cools the first air blown into the conditioned space in two stages, efficiently cooling the first air and using that first air to efficiently cool the conditioned space. The air conditioner configured in this way is equipped with two vaporization filters, a first vaporization filter and a second vaporization filter, in each of the first flow path (supply air flow path) and second flow path (exhaust air flow path), which have different flow paths. By using the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter as a cooling source, the first air can be efficiently cooled. Of the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter, the first air blown into the conditioned space as supply air (SA) passes through the first vaporization filter, so the first air can be efficiently cooled while suppressing an increase in the absolute humidity of the first air. The water used to generate heat of vaporization is supplied to the first and second vaporization filters; in other words, the water used to generate heat of vaporization is not directly supplied to the sensible heat exchanger. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the residue of water droplets in the first and second paths, which are located inside the sensible heat exchanger.

[0009] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of this disclosure, the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter are fastened together in an L-shape by a fastening member.

[0010] In this embodiment, the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter are fastened together in an L-shape by fastening members, which improves the ease of housing them in the casing and allows for miniaturization of the casing.

[0011] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of this disclosure, the fastening member is a drain pan that receives water that has not vaporized in the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter.

[0012] In this embodiment, by using an L-shaped drain pan provided below the first and second vaporization filters as a fastening member, dedicated parts for fastening the first and second vaporization filters are eliminated, thereby enabling miniaturization and weight reduction of the air conditioner.

[0013] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the sensible heat exchanger is housed in the housing such that the inner surface of the housing and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger facing the inner surface form an acute angle.

[0014] In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger is housed in the housing such that the inner surface of the housing and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger facing the inner surface form an acute angle, for example, in the range of 10 to 50 degrees. That is, the sensible heat exchanger is housed in the housing in a state where it has been rotated by an angle of rotation corresponding to the acute angle, from a state where the inner surface of the housing and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger facing the inner surface are parallel (orientation position). By housing the sensible heat exchanger in the housing in this state rotated by a predetermined angle of rotation, it is possible to secure a large heat exchange area (heat exchange surface area) in the sensible heat exchanger relative to the size of the housing.

[0015] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the sensible heat exchanger includes a first path through which the first air flows and a second path through which the second air flows, the first vaporization filter covers the outlet of the first path and the second vaporization filter covers the inlet of the second path.

[0016] In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger includes a first path through which first air flows and a second path through which second air flows. Therefore, the first path constitutes a part of the first flow path, and the second path constitutes a part of the second flow path. The first vaporization filter, located downstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the direction of the first air flow, is provided to cover the outlet of the first path, so that the first air flowing out of the outlet of the first path (flowing out of the sensible heat exchanger) can be efficiently cooled. That is, the first vaporization filter covers the opening surface on the first outlet side where the outlet of the first path is formed, so that all of the first air flowing out of the outlet of the first path passes through the first vaporization filter. The second vaporization filter, located upstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the direction of the second air flow, is provided to cover the inlet of the second path, so that the second air flowing into the inlet of the second path (flowing into the sensible heat exchanger) can be efficiently cooled. In other words, the second vaporization filter covers the opening surface on the second inlet side where the inlet of the second path is formed, so that all of the second air flowing into the inlet of the second path passes through the second vaporization filter. By adopting this configuration, the flow rate of air that bypasses the first vaporization filter or the second vaporization filter without passing through it can be reduced.

[0017] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first path and the second path are provided to intersect in the sensible heat exchanger to form a straight alternating current, and the angle formed by one surface of the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter facing the sensible heat exchanger is greater than or equal to the intersection angle of the first path and the second path.

[0018] In this embodiment, the first and second paths of the sensible heat exchanger are provided at an intersection, thereby forming a direct alternating current between the first and second air. The angle formed by the end faces of the first and second vaporization filters facing the sensible heat exchanger is greater than or equal to the intersection angle of the first and second paths, for example, between 60 and 120 degrees. Note that the intersection angle of the first and second paths of the sensible heat exchanger may be a rhombus with an angle between 60 and 120 degrees, rather than 90 degrees. In this case, the angle formed by the end faces of the first and second vaporization filters may be ±30 degrees of the intersection angle. Therefore, the first and second vaporization filters, fastened with fastening members, can be positioned so that the inside of the L-shape formed by the end faces of the first and second vaporization filters faces the corner of the rectangular sensible heat exchanger. This improves the storage capacity of these filters and allows for a smaller housing.

[0019] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the distance between the first outlet-side opening surface, which is provided with the outlet of the first path in the sensible heat exchanger, and the inner surface of the housing facing the first outlet-side opening surface increases as it moves downstream of the first air.

[0020] In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger is housed in a housing such that the distance between the first outlet-side opening surface of the sensible heat exchanger and the inner surface of the housing facing the first outlet-side opening surface increases as it moves downstream of the first air. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path located downstream of the outlet of the first path provided on the first outlet-side opening surface can be gradually increased toward the downstream side, thereby reducing the pressure loss to the first air flowing out from the outlet of the first path.

[0021] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the housing is provided with intake ports into which the first air and the second air are drawn in, and a dust collection filter is interposed between the intake ports and the sensible heat exchanger, the dust collection filter is provided in a curved shape so as to cover the inlet of the first path and the inlet of the second path.

[0022] In this aspect, the dust collecting filter interposed between the suction port and the sensible heat exchanger is provided to be curved so as to cover the inlets of the first path and the second path of the sensible heat exchanger. Therefore, in the first flow path and the second flow path, by sharing the dust collecting filter, the number of parts in the air conditioner can be reduced. Even when the inlet of the first path and the inlet of the second path are provided on different end faces of the sensible heat exchanger, by curving a single dust collecting filter, the inlets of both the first path and the second path can be covered, and the entry of dust into the sensible heat exchanger can be suppressed.

[0023] In the air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, seal members are provided at both ends of each of the dust collecting filters.

[0024] In this aspect, since seal members are provided at both ends of each of the dust collecting filters, it is possible to suppress the inflow of air into the sensible heat exchanger without passing through the dust collecting filter.

[0025] In the air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the space between the sensible heat exchanger and the suction port is partitioned by the dust collecting filter into an upstream space and a downstream space in the flow direction of the first air and the second air. In the downstream space, a branch flow path is formed to divide the suction air sucked from the suction port into the first air flowing through the first path and the second air flowing through the second path.

[0026] In this aspect, the space between the sensible heat exchanger and the suction port is partitioned by a dust collection filter into an upstream space and a downstream space in the flow directions of the first air and the second air. A branch flow path that branches into a first path and a second path is formed in the downstream space. Therefore, while sharing the suction port and the dust collection filter in the first path and the second path, the air is branched in the downstream space on the downstream side of the dust collection filter into a first path through which the first air flows and a second path through which the second air flows, and the branched first air and second air can be efficiently introduced into the sensible heat exchanger. The upstream space is a space through which the suction air before being branched into the first air and the second air flows and corresponds to the suction flow path. The suction flow path (upstream space) communicates with the outside of the housing through the suction port. Since the suction flow path (upstream space) is a path shared by the first path and the second path, the suction port can also be shared by the first path and the second path, improving the degree of freedom in arranging the suction port when providing a hole-shaped suction port in the housing, ensuring the strength of the housing, and increasing the opening area of the suction port to reduce the flow path resistance (pressure loss) in the suction air.

[0027] In the air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a supply water channel for supplying water to the first vaporization filter or the second vaporization filter is provided in the upstream space.

[0028] In this aspect, the upstream space corresponds to a suction flow path through which the suction air sucked from the suction port flows, and the temperature of the suction air is equal to the temperature of the ambient air outside the housing. The water flowing in the supply water channel located in the upstream space (suction flow path) exchanges heat with the suction air flowing in the suction flow path. For example, when the water temperature of the water flowing in the supply water channel is higher than the temperature of the ambient air, the water can be cooled by the suction air, improving the cooling efficiency in the air conditioner. Fins or the like may be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the supply water channel arranged in the upstream space to increase the heat transfer area when exchanging heat with the suction air, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency.

[0029] In an air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the housing is provided with a door that can be opened and closed on the side where the first vaporization filter is provided, and a suppression member is provided on the inner surface of the door that suppresses air from entering the first flow path without passing through the first vaporization filter.

[0030] In this embodiment, a door that can be opened and closed is provided on the side of the housing where the first vaporization filter is installed. By opening the door, the inside of the housing can be accessed from the outside to perform maintenance work, such as replacing the first vaporization filter or the second vaporization filter. A suppression member is provided on the inner surface of the door to prevent air from entering the first flow path without passing through the first vaporization filter. This prevents air that has not been cooled by the first vaporization filter from entering the first flow path downstream of the first vaporization filter. The provision of a suppression member on the inner surface of the door includes not only cases where the suppression member is attached to the inner surface of the door, but also cases where the suppression member is attached to the first vaporization filter or to a fastening member that fastens the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter together. In this case, closing the door (closing it) may cause the inner surface of the door to press against the suppression member, thereby preventing air from entering the first flow path without passing through the first vaporization filter.

[0031] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a tank provided outside the housing, a water supply channel for supplying water from the tank to the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter, and a water recovery channel for recovering water that has not vaporized by the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter into the tank.

[0032] In this embodiment, by providing a tank for holding water supplied to the first and second vaporization filters on the outside of the housing, it is unnecessary to house the tank within the housing, thereby reducing the size and weight of the housing. As a result, for example, when the air conditioner is mounted on a mobile vehicle such as a forklift, the housing that forms the main body of the air conditioner and the tank, which is configured separately from the housing, can be mounted at a distance from each other, and the housing and tank can be mounted according to the shape of the mobile vehicle on which the air conditioner is mounted. The tank and the first and second vaporization filters are connected by a supply water channel and a recovery water channel, that is, a circulation circuit is formed in which water is recovered (returned) to the tank via the tank, supply water channel, first and second vaporization filters, and recovery water channel. This circulation circuit efficiently recovers water that has not vaporized in the first and second vaporization filters into the tank, reducing the amount of water remaining inside the housing. To address the water that has permeated the first and second vaporization filters, the filters may be dried by, for example, performing a waterless operation in which the fan is driven without supplying water from the tank after the stop button is pressed by the air conditioner operator. [Effects of the Invention]

[0033] This can improve the cooling capacity of air conditioners. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0034] [Figure 1] This is a schematic front view illustrating one configuration of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view illustrating the external appearance of an air conditioner. [Figure 3] This is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of the arrangement of a sensible heat exchanger. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram regarding the cooling of electrical units (circuit boards). [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram regarding water supply from the tank. [Figure 6]This is an explanatory diagram regarding the operation of pumps (water supply pumps, recovery pumps). [Figure 7] This is a schematic perspective view illustrating one configuration of a cooling unit. [Figure 8] This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of an air conditioner mounted on a mobile device. [Figure 9] This is a schematic front view illustrating one configuration of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 10] This is a schematic side view illustrating one configuration of an air conditioning unit. [Figure 11] This is a schematic perspective view illustrating one configuration of a cooling unit. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the internal structure of the water supply section. [Figure 13] This is a schematic side view illustrating one configuration of a water supply unit. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the essential parts of the water supply section. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] (Embodiment 1) The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a schematic front view illustrating one configuration of the air conditioner 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the external appearance of the air conditioner 1. Note that Figure 1 schematically shows a cross-section cut along line AA in Figure 2, viewed from above. The air conditioner 1 comprises a box-shaped housing 11 and a tank 12 which is constructed separately from the housing 11 (main body). For example, as shown in Figure 8, it is mounted on a mobile body M such as a vehicle and cools the space around the operator of the mobile body M as the air-conditioned space. Alternatively, the air conditioner 1 may be mounted indoors, such as in a factory. The mounting state of the air conditioner 1 shown in Figure 1 (front view, viewpoint from above) is shown as a normal usage mode of the air conditioner 1, with front, back, left, and right views. The mounting state of the air conditioner 1 shown in Figure 2 is shown as a normal usage mode of the air conditioner 1, with top, bottom, front, back, left, and right views.

[0036] The air conditioner 1 comprises a water storage tank 12 and a cooling unit 3 including two vaporization filters consisting of a first vaporization filter 31 and a second vaporization filter 32. The air conditioner 1 cools the conditioned space by using the heat of vaporization of water supplied from the tank 12 through the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 to lower the ambient temperature, and is, for example, an evaporative cooling type air conditioner.

[0037] The cooling unit 3 includes a first vaporization filter 31 and a second vaporization filter 32, a water supply unit 33, and a drain pan 34. The water supply unit 33 is located above the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 and supplies water to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 below. The drain pan 34 receives water that has not vaporized in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. Details of the cooling unit 3 will be described later.

[0038] The air conditioner 1 is further equipped with a sensible heat exchanger 4, which cools the first air by exchanging heat between the second air that has passed through the second vaporization filter 32 and the first air before it passes through the first vaporization filter 31, and then cools the first air in two stages by passing the cooled first air through the first vaporization filter 31. The first air is cooled by sensible heat exchange without increasing humidity, and then cooled by vaporization, so the first air that has been cooled in two stages is blown into the conditioned space as supply air (SA). The second air is discharged to the outside of the housing 11 as exhaust air (EA).

[0039] The housing 11 of the air conditioner 1 is provided with two intake ports 5 for drawing in air from the space to be conditioned, a first outlet 71 for blowing out first air, which has been cooled in two stages by passing through a sensible heat exchanger 4 and a first vaporization filter 31, as supply air to the space to be conditioned, and a second outlet 72 for blowing out second air, which has been cooled by passing through a second vaporization filter 32 and a sensible heat exchanger 4 and has had its sensible heat exchanged with the first air, as exhaust air. The first air outlet 71 and the second air outlet 72 are provided on the same side of the housing 11 (the left side in this embodiment).

[0040] The air conditioner 1 is equipped with fans for transporting first air and second air, and the fans include a first fan 81 for transporting first air and a second fan 82 for transporting second air. The shapes of the first fan 81 and the second fan 82 in Figure 1 represent an example of the outer shell shape. The fans, including the first fan 81 and the second fan 82, may be centrifugal fans such as sirocco fans or propeller fans. The first fan 81 is provided near the first outlet 71, and the second fan 82 is provided near the second outlet 72. That is, if the airflow of the air conditioner 1 is considered to have the two intake ports 5 as the upstream ends and the first outlet 71 and the second outlet 72 as the downstream ends, the first fan 81 and the second fan 82 are provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 and the cooling unit 3 in the direction of the airflow. By providing the first fan 81 and the second fan 82 on the downstream side, these fans function as so-called intake fans, maintaining negative pressure within the air circulation path of the air conditioner 1. This configuration promotes the penetration (absorption) of water from the water supply unit 33 to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 by maintaining negative pressure within the air passage. In this embodiment, as described later, a configuration is adopted to promote the dripping of water from the water supply unit 33 to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32.

[0041] The first fan 81 and the second fan 82 share a single fan motor 8, and are fastened to shafts located at each end of the fan motor 8. A partition plate 83 is provided between the second fan 82 and the first fan 81, separating the space where the second fan 82 is located from the space where the first fan 81 is located. This partition plate 83 prevents the first air conveyed by the first fan 81 from mixing with the second air conveyed by the second fan 82.

[0042] The fan motor 8, the first fan 81, and the second fan 82 are arranged in a fan chamber partitioned by a fan casing 84. This fan chamber is partitioned by the fan casing 84, which is partly made of a heat-insulating material such as expanded polystyrene. A partition plate 83 provided between the second fan 82 and the first fan 81 constitutes part of the fan casing 84. Further details regarding the fan casing 84 will be described later.

[0043] In this embodiment, the fan motor 8 is positioned in the space on the second fan 82 side, separated by a partition plate 83. More specifically, the partition plate 83 is provided between the fan motor 8 and the first fan 81. By positioning the fan motor 8 on the second fan 82 side in this manner, the fan motor 8 can be cooled by the second air, i.e., exhaust air, transported by the second fan 82. Therefore, the fan motor 8 can be efficiently cooled using the cooling effect of the second air (exhaust air) without increasing the temperature of the first air, i.e., the supply air, transported by the first fan 81. Furthermore, since the same effect can be achieved if the fan motor 8 is positioned in the space on the second fan 82 side, separated by the partition plate 83, a modified configuration can be adopted in which the configuration relating to the second fan 82 and the positioning of the fan motor 8 are swapped.

[0044] The air conditioner 1 is provided with an intake passage 51, a branch passage 52, a first passage 61, and a second passage 62 as air circulation paths. The branch passage 52 branches the intake passage 51 into the first passage 61 and the second passage 62. The intake passage 51 starts from two intake ports 5 located in the rear and right directions and communicates with the sensible heat exchanger 4 via the branch passage 52. The first passage 61 is the space communicated along the arrow representing supply air (SA) in Figure 1. The second passage 62 is the space communicated along the arrow representing exhaust air (EA) in Figure 1. Furthermore, the intake passage 51 and the branch passage 52 are common areas before air is distributed to the first passage 61 and the second passage 62. In other words, the air inside the intake passage 51 and the branch passage 52 is both the first air and the second air. The boundary between the suction channel 51 and the branch channel 52 in this embodiment will be described later.

[0045] The branched flow path 52 communicates with the two inlets of the sensible heat exchanger 4. The two inlets of the sensible heat exchanger 4 include the inlet of the first path 41 into which the first air flows, and the inlet of the second path 42 into which the second air flows. The inlet of the first path 41 is formed on the first inlet-side opening surface 431. The inlet of the second path 42 is formed on the second inlet-side opening surface 432. The first path 41 constitutes a part of the first flow path 61. The second path 42 constitutes a part of the second flow path 62. That is, in the direction of the flow of suction air flowing into the suction flow path 51, the branched flow path 52 and the sensible heat exchanger 4 are provided downstream of the suction flow path 51 in this order.

[0046] The intake air flows into either the first path 41 or the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4 through the branched flow path 52. In other words, the intake air is divided in the branched flow path 52 into a first air that flows into the first path 41 and a second air that flows into the second path 42.

[0047] A dust collection filter 53 is interposed between the two suction ports 5 and the two inlets of the sensible heat exchanger 4 (the inlet of the first path 41 and the inlet of the second path 42). The dust collection filter 53 is made of polyester or olefin fibers and includes a filter portion that captures dust and a grid-like frame that fixes the filter portion. The dust collection filter 53 may be formed by insert molding, in which the filter portion is placed inside a resin mold and then resin, which will be the material for the frame, is poured in. The dust collection filter 53, which is made of a resin frame, is flexible and is provided in a curved shape so as to cover the inlets of the first path 41 and the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4. When providing the dust collection filter 53 in a curved shape, a guide portion, which is made of a groove or the like, is provided on the inner surface of the housing 11, into which the longitudinal edge of the dust collection filter 53 fits.

[0048] The dust collection filter 53 is curved as shown in Figure 1 because its first inlet-side opening surface 431 and second inlet-side opening surface 432 are located on different end faces (side surfaces) of the sensible heat exchanger 4. This allows the dust collection filter 53 to cover both the first inlet-side opening surface 431 and the second inlet-side opening surface 432 with a single filter. By using a single dust collection filter 53, the effort required to attach and detach the filter is reduced.

[0049] Each end of the dust collection filter 53 is provided with a sealing member 531. The ends of the dust collection filter 53 include the end on the first path 41 side and the end on the second path 42 side. The end on the first path 41 side is located at the point of contact between the first inlet side opening surface 431, where the inlet of the first path 41 is provided, and the inner surface of the housing 11 facing the first inlet side opening surface 431. The end on the second path 42 side is located between the drain pan 34, which will be described later, and the inner surface of the housing 11 adjacent to the drain pan 34. The sealing member 531 fills the gap between the inner surface of the housing 11 and the dust collection filter 53.

[0050] Since sealing members 531 are provided at both ends of the dust collection filter 53, it is possible to prevent air from flowing into the sensible heat exchanger 4 without passing through the dust collection filter 53. By providing the dust collection filter 53, dust from the intake air drawn in from the intake port 5 can be collected, and the adhesion of dust in the airflow path within the air conditioner 1 can be prevented.

[0051] The space between the two inlets of the sensible heat exchanger 4 (the inlet of the first path 41 and the inlet of the second path 42) and the suction port 5 is divided by the dust collection filter 53 into an upstream space and a downstream space in the flow direction of the first and second air. In other words, the dust collection filter 53 divides the space into an upstream space, which is the space surrounded by the housing 11 having the suction port 5 and the dust collection filter 53, and a downstream space, which is the space surrounded by the dust collection filter 53, the first inlet side opening surface 431, and the second inlet side opening surface 432. The upstream space corresponds to the suction flow path 51. The downstream space corresponds to the branch flow path 52. The suction flow path 51 is a path shared by the first path 41 and the second path 42 upstream of the branch flow path 52. Therefore, the two suction ports 5 can also be shared by the first path 41 and the second path 42, and the opening area of ​​the two suction ports 5 can be increased to reduce the flow resistance (pressure loss) in the intake air. Furthermore, in order to reduce flow resistance, a configuration in which the two intake ports are connected may be adopted. Specifically, similar to the dust collection filter 53, the side of the housing 11 may be curved, and one intake port 5 may be formed on the curved side to widen the opening area. In this case, the volume of the upstream space can be minimized, and the effects of turbulence and other factors that may occur in the upstream space can be minimized.

[0052] As described above, the sensible heat exchanger 4 is provided with a first path 41 through which first air flows and a second path 42 through which second air flows. The first path 41 constitutes a part of the first flow path 61 which communicates with the first outlet 71. The second path 42 constitutes a part of the second flow path 62 which communicates with the second outlet 72. The first path 41 and the second path 42 in the sensible heat exchanger 4 are made up of a plurality of resin plates having a hollow structure, and these resin plates are arranged in parallel. By making the thickness of the resin plates thinner, the heat transfer performance can be improved and the weight of the sensible heat exchanger 4 can be reduced. The hollow structure may also be made up of metal plates.

[0053] The resin plates constituting the first path 41 and the resin plates constituting the second path 42 are stacked and arranged perpendicular to the flow directions of the first and second air, and sensible heat exchange takes place between the first and second air through these resin plates. The first path 41 and the second path 42 are perpendicular to each other, so that a direct alternating current is formed by the first air flowing through the first path 41 and the second air flowing through the second path 42.

[0054] In each resin plate constituting the first path 41 and the second path 42, a resin frame may be provided between adjacent resin plates, and this resin frame may function as a spacer to ensure the distance between these resin plates. By using a resin frame as a spacer, the weight of the sensible heat exchanger 4 can be reduced. The spacer plays a role in regulating the airflow inside the sensible heat exchanger 4, thereby making the airflow inside the sensible heat exchanger 4 more uniform and increasing the area over which the first air and the second air exchange heat. Inside the sensible heat exchanger 4, the airflow may be regulated by the spacer so that the first air and the second air exchange heat in a counter-flow relationship in some paths. Counter-flow heat exchange can improve the heat exchange efficiency in the sensible heat exchanger 4. The thickness of the spacer for the second air may be greater than the thickness of the spacer for the first air. That is, the width of the spacer for the second air may be greater than the width of the spacer for the first air. This configuration reduces the pressure loss to the second air as it flows through the sensible heat exchanger 4, allowing the airflow rate of the second air to be increased compared to that of the first air. This configuration further efficiently cools the first air with the second air, lowering the temperature of the first air. In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger 4 is a plate type using a resin plate or the like, but it is not limited to this, and may also be configured with a series of cylindrical paths, such as a straw shape.

[0055] Each end face (side surface) of the sensible heat exchanger 4 is provided with an inlet for the first path 41, an inlet for the second path 42, an outlet for the first path 41, and an outlet for the second path 42. The end face (side surface) on which the inlet for the first path 41 is provided corresponds to the first inlet-side opening surface 431. The end face (side surface) on which the inlet for the second path 42 is provided corresponds to the second inlet-side opening surface 432. The end face (side surface) of the first path 41, where the exit is located, corresponds to the first exit-side opening surface 441. The end face (side surface) of the second path 42, where the exit is located, corresponds to the second exit-side opening surface 442. In other words, the first path 41 is formed by stacking multiple spaces that communicate from the first inlet-side opening surface 431 toward the first exit-side opening surface 441. Similarly, the second path 42 is formed by stacking multiple spaces that communicate from the second inlet-side opening surface 432 toward the second exit-side opening surface 442.

[0056] In the second airflow direction, a second vaporization filter 32 is provided on the upstream side of the second inlet opening surface 432. The second vaporization filter 32, which has a rectangular shape in the front view of Figure 1, is provided with one side facing the second inlet opening surface 432. In the first airflow direction, a first vaporization filter 31 is provided on the downstream side of the first outlet opening surface 441. The first vaporization filter 31, which has a rectangular shape in the front view of Figure 1, is provided with one side facing the first outlet opening surface 441.

[0057] The second air, which is diverted in the branch channel 52, passes through the second vaporization filter 32, is cooled by the second vaporization filter 32, and then flows into the interior of the sensible heat exchanger 4 (second path 42) from the inlet of the second path 42 provided on the second inlet side opening surface 432. The first air, which is diverted in the branch channel 52, flows into the interior of the sensible heat exchanger 4 (first path 41) from the inlet of the first path 41 provided on the first inlet side opening surface 431.

[0058] The first air flowing through the first path 41 and the second air flowing through the second path 42 exchange heat via the sensible heat exchanger 4. The second air flowing through the second path 42 is cooled by the second vaporization filter 32, and the temperature of the second air is lower than the temperature of the intake air immediately after it is drawn in at the intake port 5. The temperature of the first air immediately after it flows into the inlet of the first path 41 is the same as (equivalent to) the temperature of the intake air immediately after it is drawn in at the intake port 5, but it is cooled by the second air flowing through the second path 42 via the sensible heat exchanger 4. Specifically, since the temperature of the first air is higher than that of the second air, heat is absorbed by the second air. As a result, the temperature of the first air and the second air becomes lower than that of the intake air and the air outside the housing 11.

[0059] The first air flowing out from the outlet of the first path 41 is further cooled by the first vaporization filter 31. As a result, the first air is cooled in two stages. That is, the first air is cooled by two cooling sources: the first air is used as an indirect cooling source via the second air from the second vaporization filter 32, and the first vaporization filter 31 is used as a direct cooling source. In other words, only sensible heat is exchanged in the first stage, and total heat exchange occurs in the second stage. This results in a lower wet-bulb temperature than cooling by vaporization or sensible heat exchange alone, or cooling by sensible heat exchange after vaporization cooling. In addition, the amount of water vaporized during total heat exchange is reduced, which prevents an unpleasant increase in humidity.

[0060] The first air, which flows out from the outlet of the first path 41 of the sensible heat exchanger 4 (an outlet provided on the first outlet-side opening surface 441) and passes through the first vaporization filter 31, is transported by the first fan 81 located downstream of the first vaporization filter 31 and blown out as supply air (SA) into the conditioned space from the first outlet 71. The first outlet 71 may be provided with a discharge duct 711, for example, which is made of a bellows structure, and the first air may be blown out as supply air (SA) in a direction adjusted by the discharge duct 711. This makes it possible to cool the space around the operator of the mobile unit M as the conditioned space. The first fan 81 is located downstream of the first vaporization filter 31, but is not limited to this, and the first fan 81 may be located upstream of the first vaporization filter 31.

[0061] The second air that flows out from the outlet of the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4 (the outlet provided on the second outlet side opening surface 442) is transported by the second fan 82 located downstream of the outlet of the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4, and is blown out as exhaust (EA) from the second outlet 72 to the outside of the housing 11.

[0062] The first outlet 71 and the second outlet 72 are located on the same side of the housing 11 (the left side in this embodiment). The second outlet 72 faces the direction of the first outlet 71, and the exhaust air (EA) blown out from the second outlet 72 may be blown out near the vicinity of the discharge duct 711 attached to the first outlet 71. More specifically, the second outlet 72 is located in front of the second fan 82, so that the second air supplied by the second fan 82 is blown out in the left-front direction. In addition, if there is a discharge duct 711, the rise in the external surface temperature of the discharge duct 711 due to direct sunlight or lighting can be suppressed.

[0063] By blowing the exhaust air (EA) from the second outlet 72 towards the vicinity of the discharge duct 711, the temperature of the surrounding air (ambient temperature) of the discharge duct 711 can be reduced, thereby suppressing the rise in the temperature of the supply air (SA) blown out from the discharge duct 711 due to the outside air (outside air) of the housing 11. In addition, the rise in the external surface temperature of the discharge duct 711 due to direct sunlight or lighting can be suppressed.

[0064] The intake port 5 is provided on a side different from the side on which the first outlet 71 and the second outlet 72 are provided. This suppresses the occurrence of a short-circuit phenomenon in which air blown out from the first outlet 71 and the second outlet 72 is drawn in through the intake port 5. However, in the air conditioner 1 of this embodiment, ventilation efficiency does not need to be considered, and if a short-circuit phenomenon occurs on the supply or exhaust side, the air that is cooler than the outside air will be cooled again, which has the advantage of being able to further lower the wet-bulb temperature of the first air. The first outlet 71, the second outlet 72, or the first outlet 71 and the second outlet 72 may be provided on the top surface of the housing.

[0065] As shown in the illustration of this embodiment, a door portion 111 that can be opened and closed is provided on one of the sides of the housing 11 that does not have the two intake ports 5, the first outlet port 71, and the second outlet port 72. The side on which the door portion 111 is provided is the side corresponding to the location where the end of the first vaporization filter 31 and the end of the second vaporization filter 32 are adjacent, and is the side closest to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. By opening the door portion 111 (setting it to the open state), the inside of the housing 11 can be accessed from the outside, and maintenance work such as replacing the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32 can be performed. Preferably, the door portion 111 is fixed to the housing 11 by a hinge connecting one end other than the upper end, and the end of the door portion 111 opposite to the hinged end is fixed to the housing 11 by an openable and closable locking mechanism. This prevents the door section 111 from falling off when open, and makes it easier to maintain the open position during maintenance.

[0066] When performing the maintenance work, after opening the door 111, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 can be slid horizontally to make them detachable, thereby reducing the height of the housing 11, and thus the height of the product. This improves maintainability. The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are integrally molded with the resin material on only one side. This improves maintainability of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 while suppressing air leakage from the element portions of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, that is, preventing air from flowing without passing through the respective element portions. A handle or grip is provided on a resin component integrally molded to one side of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. When performing maintenance work, the worker can easily attach and detach the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 by holding the handle, thereby improving maintainability. The two vaporization filters, consisting of a first vaporization filter 31 and a second vaporization filter 32, may be designed to be pulled out in an intersecting manner. This configuration allows for the commonality of parts, which can lead to cost reductions through reduced part costs. Furthermore, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 can be removed from a limited inspection opening space depending on the size of the housing 11, thereby enabling miniaturization of the housing 11 and, consequently, the product size. A retaining portion is provided to fix the two vaporization filters, consisting of a first vaporization filter 31 and a second vaporization filter 32, so that they do not move. This retaining portion contacts and presses against a part of the door portion 111, thereby pressing the door portion 111 against it. This configuration makes it possible to suppress leakage between the first air and the second air, that is, mixing of the first air and the second air. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress displacement of the vaporization filters due to vibration, etc. Moreover, it is possible to prevent the vaporization filters from being improperly installed when removing and installing them during maintenance work, etc.

[0067] A suppression member 112 is provided on the inner surface of the door portion 111 to prevent air from entering the first flow path 61 without passing through the first vaporization filter 31. The suppression member 112 is made of, for example, a sealing material, and when the door portion 111 is closed (closed state), it is sandwiched between the inner surface of the door portion 111 and the edge of the first vaporization filter 31, thereby performing a sealing function and preventing air from entering the first flow path 61 without passing through the first vaporization filter 31.

[0068] The suppression member 112 is not limited to being attached to the inner surface of the door portion 111, but may also be attached to the first vaporization filter 31 or to the fastening member that fastens the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. In other words, the statement that the suppression member 112 is provided on the inner surface of the door portion 111 includes not only the case where the suppression member 112 is attached to the inner surface of the door portion 111, but also, for example, the case where the suppression member 112 is attached to the first vaporization filter 31 or the like.

[0069] The air conditioner 1 includes a tank 12 for storing water supplied to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The tank 12 is constructed separately from the housing 11 that houses the first vaporization filter 31, the second vaporization filter 32, etc. In the air conditioner 1, the housing 11, which is the main body, and the tank 12, which is constructed separately, are connected (in communication) by a supply water channel 91 and a recovery water channel 92. Water supplied from the tank 12 to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 housed in the housing 11 flows through the supply water channel 91. Water that does not vaporize in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 flows through the recovery water channel 92 and is recovered in the tank 12. The supply water channel 91 and the recovery water channel 92 are constructed by hoses made of flexible resin or pipes made of rigid resin. When installed on a mobile unit M as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the tank 12 be installed behind or at the feet of the operator for easy water supply and replacement. Furthermore, it is preferable to tie the supply channel 91 and the recovery channel 92 to the pillars of the head guard or the like to ensure visibility for the operator and to prevent water leakage due to snagging during operation.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5, the water supply channel 91 is equipped with a water supply pump 913 and a water supply sensor 914. When the housing 11 and the tank 12 are placed in different locations and there is a difference in height (head) between the housing 11 and the tank 12, the water supply pump 913, which has a water supply capacity corresponding to the head, can send water from the tank 12 below to the housing 11 above. The water supply sensor 914 is installed, for example, inside the water supply channel 91 and outputs a sensor value (detection value) corresponding to the amount of water flowing through the water supply channel 91.

[0071] As shown in Figure 5, the recovery channel 92 is equipped with a recovery pump 923 and a recovery water sensor 924. Even if the housing 11 and the tank 12 are placed in different locations, and the housing 11 is above the tank 12, the recovery pump 923 can reliably recover the water accumulated in the drain pan 34. The recovery water sensor 924 is, for example, installed inside the recovery channel 92 and outputs a sensor value (detected value) corresponding to the amount of water flowing through the recovery channel 92. In this embodiment, a supply water sensor 914 and a recovery water sensor 924 are provided, but they may be implemented with only one of them. Furthermore, the amount of water supplied or recovered may be estimated by detecting the torque of the water supply pump 913 or the recovery pump 923, and the configuration may not include a supply water sensor 914 and a recovery water sensor 924. Alternatively, the air conditioner 1 may be configured to include only a recovery water sensor 924. The recovered water sensor 924 can detect the water drained from the drain pan 34 and recovered in the tank 12, eliminating the need for the supply water sensor 914. This reduces the number of sensors installed in the air conditioner 1, thereby lowering costs through reduced component costs.

[0072] As shown in Figure 5, the water supply pump 913, water supply sensor 914, water recovery pump 923, and water recovery sensor 924 are connected to a controller 130, which will be described later. The controller 130 drives the water supply pump 913 and the water recovery pump 923 based on the sensor values ​​output from the water supply sensor 914, the water recovery sensor 924, or both sensors.

[0073] A portion of the water supply channel 91 extending from the tank 12 is housed inside the housing 11 and communicates with the water supply section 33, which is mounted above the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The portion of the water supply channel 91 housed inside the housing 11 is located in the upstream space (intake channel 51) separated by the dust collection filter 53. When the air conditioner 1 is mounted on the mobile unit M and used outdoors, the temperature of the water in the tank 12 may be heated by direct sunlight, etc., and may become higher than the outside air temperature (intake air temperature). Even in such cases, the water (supply water) flowing in the water supply channel 91 located in the upstream space (intake channel 51) exchanges heat with the intake air flowing in the intake channel 51, cooling the water (supply water) with the intake air and improving the cooling efficiency of the air conditioner 1. The outer surface of the supply water channel 91, which is located in the upstream space, may be provided with fins or the like to increase the heat transfer area when exchanging heat with the intake air, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency. Alternatively, to cool the water in the supply water channel 91, the supply water channel 91 may be arranged to pass downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the second flow path 62.

[0074] The water (supply water) flowing into the water supply section 33 is divided into a first supply channel 911 on the side of the first vaporization filter 31 and a second supply channel 912 on the side of the second vaporization filter 32. The water passes through the first water supply hole 331 provided in the water supply section 33 and drips onto the first vaporization filter 31, and then passes through the second water supply hole 332 and drips onto the second vaporization filter 32 (see Figure 7). The water that drips onto the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 permeates into the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, respectively. At this time, the water (supply water) drips sequentially from the first water supply hole 331 and the second water supply hole 332 due to the water pressure from the pump, the weight of the water, and the negative pressure inside the first channel 61 and the second channel 62.

[0075] The water that permeates the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 is vaporized as the first air and second air pass through. Depending on the amount of water supplied and the relative humidity of the environment in which the air conditioner 1 is used, some of the supplied water flows in liquid form into the drain pan 34 located below the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The drain pan 34 is divided into two regions, for example, a region corresponding to the first vaporization filter 31 (first drain region) and a region corresponding to the second vaporization filter 32 (second drain region). This division helps to suppress the mixing of the first air and second air that flow into the drain pan 34.

[0076] The drain pan 34 and the tank 12 are connected by a recovery channel 92, which includes a first recovery channel 921 that communicates with the first drain area and a second recovery channel 922 that communicates with the second drain area (see Figure 5). After the first recovery channel 921 and the second recovery channel 922 merge, they communicate with the tank 12 via a recovery pump 923. The water (recovered water) that flows into the drain pan 34 (first drain area and second drain area) is recovered into the tank 12 via the recovery channel 92 (first recovery channel 921 and second recovery channel 922). As shown in Figure 5, if the recovery pump 923 has two inlets corresponding to the first recovery channel 921 and the second recovery channel 922, the first recovery channel 921 and the second recovery channel 922 may be connected to the respective inlets of the recovery pump 923 and merged at the recovery pump 923.

[0077] The tank 12 and the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are connected by a supply water channel 91 and a recovery water channel 92. Thus, a circulation circuit is formed in which water is recovered (returned) to the tank 12 via the tank 12, supply water channel 91, water supply section 33, first vaporization filter 31 and second vaporization filter 32, drain pan 34, and recovery water channel 92. This circulation circuit efficiently recovers water that has not vaporized by the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 into the tank 12, reducing the amount of water remaining inside the housing 11 and improving hygiene inside the housing 11.

[0078] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view illustrating the arrangement of the sensible heat exchanger 4. Figure 3 omits some components, such as the dust collection filter 53 and the water supply unit 33. The sensible heat exchanger 4 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the front, and for example, it has the appearance of a rectangular parallelepiped. The first path 41 and the second path 42 provided in the sensible heat exchanger 4 are orthogonal, and in this embodiment, the intersection angle of the first path 41 and the second path 42 is, for example, 90°.

[0079] The sensible heat exchanger 4 has end faces (side surfaces) including a first inlet-side opening surface 431, a second inlet-side opening surface 432, a first outlet-side opening surface 441, and a second outlet-side opening surface 442, with the angle between each adjacent end face (side surface) being, for example, 90°. The first inlet-side opening surface 431, the second inlet-side opening surface 432, the first outlet-side opening surface 441, and the second outlet-side opening surface 442 are arranged in this order in the circumferential direction when the sensible heat exchanger 4 is viewed from the front. That is, the first inlet-side opening surface 431 is adjacent to the second inlet-side opening surface 432, the second inlet-side opening surface 432 is adjacent to the first outlet-side opening surface 441, the first outlet-side opening surface 441 is adjacent to the second outlet-side opening surface 442, and the second outlet-side opening surface 442 is adjacent to the first inlet-side opening surface 431.

[0080] The sensible heat exchanger 4 is housed in the housing 11 such that the inner surface of the housing 11 and the end surface of the sensible heat exchanger 4 facing the inner surface form an acute angle. For the purposes of the following explanation, the angle between the front inner surface of the housing 11 and the first outlet side opening surface 441 is defined as angle θ. For example, angle θ is an acute angle greater than 10 degrees and less than 50 degrees. The lower limit of angle θ, 10 degrees, should be set to ensure the path diameter of the first flow path 61. The upper limit of angle θ should be set by the arrangement of the fan motor 8 and electrical unit 13 and the partition plate 83, which are provided downstream of the second path 42. Specifically, angle θ should be set so that the left end of the first outlet side opening surface 441 and the right end of the partition plate 83 are in a positional relationship that allows connection. Furthermore, in order to facilitate the flow of the second air to the fan motor 8 and the electrical unit 13, it is preferable to adopt a configuration in which the left end of the first outlet-side opening surface 441 and the right end of the partition plate 83 are positioned forward of at least one of the rear ends of the fan motor 8 and the electrical unit 13, and to determine the upper limit of the angle θ. This allows the second air to flow more easily into the fan motor 8 and the electrical unit 13, thereby increasing the cooling efficiency of the fan motor 8 and the electrical unit 13. The sensible heat exchanger 4 is housed in the housing 11 in a state where it is rotated by an angle θ corresponding to the acute angle from a parallel state (position) where the angle between the inner surface of the housing 11 and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger 4 opposite to the inner surface is 0 degrees. As a result, for example, since the housing 11 is a rectangular parallelepiped and the sensible heat exchanger 4 is a cube, the angle between the first inlet-side opening surface 431 and the rear inner surface of the housing 11 opposite to the first inlet-side opening surface 431 is equal to the angle between the first outlet-side opening surface 441 and the front inner surface of the housing 11 opposite to the first outlet-side opening surface 441. By housing the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the housing 11 in this state rotated by a predetermined angle, a large heat exchangeable area (heat exchange area) in the sensible heat exchanger 4 can be secured relative to the size of the housing 11. Furthermore, by setting θ to an angle greater than 10 degrees and less than 50 degrees, and not equal to 45 degrees, the length of the housing 11 in the front-to-back and left-to-right directions can be reduced compared to setting it at 45 degrees. This allows the length of the housing 11 in the front, back, left, and right directions relative to the heat exchange area to be reduced, thus enabling miniaturization. Similarly, since the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are provided along the second inlet side opening surface 432 and the first outlet side opening surface 441 of the sensible heat exchanger 4, the length of the cooling unit 3 in the left-right direction can be shortened, and the area of ​​the door portion 111 provided for maintenance can also be reduced.

[0081] By rotating the housing 11 at an angle θ corresponding to a predetermined acute angle, the distance between the first outlet-side opening surface 441 and the front inner surface of the housing 11 facing the first outlet-side opening surface 441 can be gradually increased toward the downstream side of the first air. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the distance between the surfaces increases in stages as it approaches the first outlet 71 (d3>d2>d1). That is, the distance between the first outlet-side opening surface 441 and the inner surface of the housing 11 can be made the largest at the downstream end. This reduces the flow resistance (pressure loss) when the first air flows out from the first outlet-side opening surface 441. Incidentally, the distance between the second inlet-side opening surface 432 and the right inner surface of the housing 11 facing the second inlet-side opening surface 432 decreases as it moves away from the first outlet-side opening surface 441 (k3>k2>k1).

[0082] The first vaporization filter 31, facing the first outlet opening surface 441, and the second vaporization filter 32, facing the second inlet opening surface 432, are fastened to a casing that covers the upper part of the drain pan 34 located below, and are arranged in an L-shape. In this case, the casing that covers the upper part of the drain pan 34 functions as a fastening member that fastens the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The angle (β) formed by the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, which are arranged in an L-shape, is greater than or equal to the intersection angle (α) of the first path 41 and the second path 42, for example, between 60 and 120 degrees. Furthermore, considering cases such as when the sensible heat exchanger 4 is rhombic, the relationship between angle (β) and angle (α) can be expressed by an equation, preferably β = α ± 30 (degrees). By arranging the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 in an L-shape, the inside of the L-shape formed from the end faces of each of the first and second vaporization filters 31 and 32 can be aligned with the corners of the sensible heat exchanger 4, thereby arranging the filters. This improves the ease of housing the first and second vaporization filters 31 and 32, and allows for miniaturization of the housing 11. In Figure 3, the length of the first vaporization filter 31 is slightly shorter than the length of the first outlet side opening surface 441 for miniaturization purposes. However, the length of the first vaporization filter 31 may be changed as appropriate. As an example, it is preferable that the length of the first outlet side opening surface 441 and the first vaporization filter 31 be determined so that the flow path cross-sectional area is approximately the same. This reduces pressure loss due to changes in the flow path cross-sectional area. Furthermore, it is preferable that a wall surface (sealing member) defining the flow path is installed between the first outlet-side opening surface 441 and the first vaporization filter 31 so that the first air passing through the first outlet-side opening surface 441 passes through the first vaporization filter 31. This wall surface may be formed in the casing of the first vaporization filter 31 or in the fixing member of the sensible heat exchanger 4. The second vaporization filter 32 may also be modified as appropriate, similar to the first vaporization filter 31. The length of the second inlet-side opening surface 432 and the second vaporization filter 32 are such that the length of the second vaporization filter 32 is slightly shorter for miniaturization purposes. However, the length of the second vaporization filter 32 may be changed as appropriate.As an example, it is preferable that the lengths of the second outlet-side opening 442 and the second vaporization filter 32 be determined such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is approximately the same. This reduces pressure loss due to changes in the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Furthermore, it is preferable that a wall surface defining the flow path is formed between the second outlet-side opening 442 and the second vaporization filter 32 so that the second air that passes through the second outlet-side opening 442 passes through the second vaporization filter 32.

[0083] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram regarding the cooling of the electrical unit 13 (circuit board 131). The fan motor 8, the first fan 81, and the second fan 82 are arranged in a fan chamber partitioned by a fan casing 84, which is partly composed of a heat transfer suppression member with low thermal conductivity (has heat insulating properties), such as expanded polystyrene. In Figures 1 and 4, the fan chamber is partitioned into a first flow path 61 and a second flow path 62 by a partition plate 83 that forms part of the fan casing 84, preventing the first air transported by the first fan 81 and the second air transported by the second fan 82 from mixing.

[0084] The fan chamber on the side of the second fan 82 houses a fan motor 8 and an electrical unit 13, which are cooled by the second air flowing out of the sensible heat exchanger 4. In Figure 4, some details of the flow path structure and the arrangement of the insulation material in the fan chamber of the second fan 82 are omitted. As an example, various configurations can be adopted, such as installing a honeycomb structured rectifier plate to straighten the flow of the second air or a desiccant for dehumidification.

[0085] The electrical unit 13 includes a circuit board 131 on which a controller 130 for controlling the air conditioner 1 is mounted, a heat transfer promoting member 132 provided on the back surface of the mounting surface of the circuit board 131, and a sealing plate 133 to which the heat transfer promoting member 132 is attached. That is, the heat transfer promoting member 132 is interposed between the circuit board 131 and the sealing plate 133, forming a laminated structure of the circuit board 131, the heat transfer promoting member 132, and the sealing plate 133. The heat transfer promoting member 132 is, for example, a heat transfer sheet or heat transfer paste molded from a heat dissipation material with high thermal conductivity and high insulation properties, filled with a high heat dissipation filler. The sealing plate 133 is a metal plate with high thermal conductivity, such as copper or aluminum, and may, for example, be part of the exterior of the electrical unit 13 which forms a box. Semiconductor chips constituting the controller 130, and electrical components such as coils and capacitors are mounted on the mounting surface of the circuit board 131, and these electrical components generate heat when current flows through them. In other words, the substrate 131 acts as a heat source, and the heat generated on the substrate 131 is dissipated from the sealing plate 133 to the internal space of the fan chamber on the side of the second fan 82 via the heat transfer promoting member 132 and the sealing plate 133 that form the laminated structure. The surface of the sealing plate 133 on the fan casing 84 side may be provided with parts to increase the heat dissipation area, such as fins, pins, or heat sinks.

[0086] A through-hole 841 is formed in the portion of the fan casing 84 where the electrical unit 13 is located, facing the second flow path 62. This portion of the fan casing 84 is made of, for example, a plate-shaped piece of expanded polystyrene, and the through-hole 841 is formed therein. The sealing plate 133 of the electrical unit 13 seals the through-hole 841 of the fan casing 84 from the side of the substrate 131.

[0087] The electrical unit 13 is positioned separately from the fan chamber of the second fan 82, and the through-hole 841 of the fan casing 84 is sealed by the sealing plate 133 of the electrical unit 13. This prevents the substrate 131 contained in the electrical unit 13 from coming into direct contact with the second air, thus preventing the substrate 131 from being affected by water vapor (moisture) contained in the second air. Furthermore, heat exchange is possible between the substrate 131 and the second air via the sealing plate 133 exposed from the through-hole 841 of the fan casing 84, allowing the substrate 131 to be cooled by the second air. The sealing plate 133 may be provided with heat dissipation fins or pins that protrude from the through-hole 841 of the fan casing 84 toward the inside of the fan chamber of the second fan 82. Heat dissipation fins or the like protruding from one side of the sealing plate 133 can increase the heat transfer area with the second air in the fan chamber of the second fan 82, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency. Since a heat transfer promoting member 132 made of heat dissipation material or the like is provided between the substrate 131 and the sealing plate 133, the heat transfer efficiency between the substrate 131 and the sealing plate 133 (second air) is improved, and the substrate 131 can be cooled more efficiently using the second air. In addition, the electrical unit 13 may not have a heat transfer suppression member on the second flow path 62 side, and may be composed of the sealing plate 133 and heat dissipation material. This can increase the area on which the second air and the electrical unit 13 can exchange heat, thereby improving the cooling efficiency.

[0088] A portion of the fan casing 84 that forms the fan chamber of the second fan 82 may be formed by the inner surface of the housing 11 on the side in which the second fan 82 is housed. By forming a portion of the fan casing 84 with the inner surface of the housing 11, the inner surface of the housing 11 can be cooled by the second air, and the rise in temperature of the outer surface of the housing 11 due to the influence of outside air can be mitigated. Alternatively, by positioning the second fan 82 in close contact with the inner surface of the housing 11, one surface of the second fan 82 may be formed by the inner surface of the housing 11. This increases the flow rate of the second air at the installation location of the second fan 82, actively cooling the inner surface of the housing 11 with the second air, and mitigating the rise in temperature of the outer surface of the housing 11 due to the influence of outside air.

[0089] The fan casing 84 forming the fan chamber on the side of the first fan 81 is made of a heat transfer suppressing material with low thermal conductivity (having heat insulating properties), such as expanded polystyrene. This reduces the influence of outside air on the first air passing through the fan chamber (first flow path 61) of the first fan 81, and suppresses the rise in the temperature of the first air. The outer shell of the first fan 81 may have a rounded corner shape to match the shape of the part of the fan casing 84 that communicates with the outlet of the first path 41 of the sensible heat exchanger 4.

[0090] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram regarding the water supply from tank 12. Tank 12 and the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are connected by a supply water channel 91 and a recovery water channel 92. Water flows in the following order: tank 12, supply water channel 91, water supply section 33, first vaporization filter 31 and second vaporization filter 32, drain pan 34, and recovery water channel 92, forming a circulation circuit in which water is recovered into tank 12.

[0091] The water supply channel 91 is connected to a water supply section 33 which is mounted above the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The water supply section 33 includes a first water supply area 991 located above the first vaporization filter 31 and a second water supply area 992 located above the second vaporization filter 32.

[0092] The water supply section 33 is dish-shaped with an opening at the top, and a first water supply channel 911 and a second water supply channel 912 are formed by ribs or grooves formed on the inner surface of the dish-shaped water supply section 33, through which water supplied from the tank 12 flows. The first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912 constitute a part of the water supply channel 91. The first water supply channel 911 is included in the first water supply area 991, and the second water supply channel 912 is included in the second water supply area 992 (Figure 7). The water flowing into the water supply section 33 is divided by the first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912.

[0093] Water flowing through the first supply channel 911 passes through the first water inlet 331 provided in the first supply channel 911 and drips onto the first vaporization filter 31. Water flowing through the second supply channel 912 passes through the second water inlet 332 provided in the second supply channel 912 and drips onto the second vaporization filter 32. The first fan 81 is located downstream of the first vaporization filter 31 in the first airflow direction, and similarly, the second fan 82 is located downstream of the second vaporization filter 32 in the second airflow direction. Therefore, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are under negative pressure, which promotes the dripping and infiltration of water onto the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The water (supply water) dripped onto the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 permeates the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 and vaporizes, becoming mixed as water vapor in the first and second air passing through the first and second vaporization filters 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. Depending on the relative humidity of the environment in which the air conditioner 1 is used and the amount of water supplied, some of the supplied water may not vaporize and flow into the drain pan 34 located below the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 in liquid form.

[0094] The drain pan 34 is divided into two regions, for example, a region corresponding to the first vaporization filter 31 (first drain region) and a region corresponding to the second vaporization filter 32 (second drain region). The first drain region is connected to the first recovery channel 921, and the second drain region is connected to the second recovery channel 922. The first recovery channel 921 and the second recovery channel 922 constitute a part of the recovery channel 92. After the first recovery channel 921 and the second recovery channel 922 merge, they are connected to the tank 12 via the recovery pump 923. As a result, the water that flows into the drain pan 34 (water that did not vaporize in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32) is recovered into the tank 12 via the recovery channel 92 (first recovery channel 921 and second recovery channel 922). In the above example, it is preferable that the connection point between the first drain area and the first recovery channel 921, and the connection point between the second drain area and the second recovery channel 922 are adjacent, or that the first drain area and the second drain area are provided with similar shapes and inclinations so that the drainage capacity does not change even if the inclination of the mobile body M changes. In another example, the drain pan 34 may not be divided into two areas, the first drain area and the second drain area, and the first recovery channel 921 and the second recovery channel 922 may be a single recovery channel. This reduces the decrease in the drainage capacity of the recovery pump 923 due to the recovery pump 923 drawing in air from either the first recovery channel 921 or the second recovery channel 922. In other words, it is possible to sufficiently drain the water inside the air conditioner 1 and suppress the generation of slime.

[0095] A water supply sensor 914 is provided in the water supply channel 91, and a water recovery sensor 924 is provided in the water recovery channel 92. The water supply sensor 914 and the water recovery sensor 924 each include, for example, a turbine that rotates due to the water flowing in the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92, and output sensor values ​​(detected values) related to the presence or absence of water flowing in the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92, or the amount of water (volume flow rate), in accordance with the rotation of the turbine.

[0096] The supply water sensor 914 and the recovered water sensor 924 are communicatively connected to the controller 130 (board 131), and the controller 130 can acquire data regarding the presence or absence of water flowing in the supply water channel 91 and the recovered water channel 92, or the amount of water (volume flow rate), based on the sensor values ​​output from the supply water sensor 914 and the recovered water sensor 924. The controller 130 is composed of a microcontroller equipped with, for example, a storage unit such as memory and a control unit such as an MPU.

[0097] The controller 130 is further connected to the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 in a communicative manner, and performs drive control such as driving and stopping the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 by, for example, transmitting a drive signal. The controller 130 acquires data such as the presence or absence of water flowing in the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92 based on the water supply sensor 914 and the water recovery sensor 924, but is not limited to this. For example, the controller 130 may acquire the current value (motor current value) of the motors included in the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 using a shunt resistor or the like, and determine the presence or absence of water flowing in the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92 based on the motor current value, etc. If there is no water flowing in the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92, the motors of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 will run idly, reducing the torque applied to the motors and also reducing the motor current value. Therefore, a predetermined threshold is set for the motor current value, and if it is below the predetermined threshold, the controller 130 can determine that there is no water flowing in the supply channel 91 and the recovery channel 92.

[0098] The water supply pump 913, water supply sensor 914, water recovery pump 923, and water recovery sensor 924, which are located in the water supply channel 91 and water recovery channel 92, are all housed in the housing 11. In other words, the tank 12 is only connected to the water supply channel 91 and water recovery channel 92, and does not have electrical components such as the water supply pump 913, water supply sensor 914, water recovery pump 923, and water recovery sensor 924 mounted on it. This simplifies the structure and configuration of the tank 12 and improves the freedom of placement of the tank 12, which is configured separately from the housing 11.

[0099] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram regarding the operation of the pumps (water supply pump 913 and recovery pump 923). The controller 130 operates the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 at different times. The controller 130 operates the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 periodically. As a result, the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 perform intermittent operation, periodically repeating between an operating state and a stopped state.

[0100] The controller 130 drives the water supply pump 913 before the recovery pump 923 when the air conditioner 1 is started by an operator, for example. That is, a predetermined delay time is provided between the start of operation of the water supply pump 913 and the start of operation of the recovery pump 923. The start of operation of the air conditioner 1 may be linked to the start of operation of the mobile unit M. The delay time may be a variable time, for example, until the amount of water supplied from the water supply sensor 914 exceeds a predetermined amount. Alternatively, the delay time may be a predetermined fixed time.

[0101] For example, if the controller 130 obtains a sensor value from the recovered water sensor 924 indicating that water is flowing into the recovery channel 92, it stops driving the water supply pump 913. The fact that water (recovered water) is flowing into the recovery channel 92 indicates that water that was not vaporized by the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32 is flowing down into the drain pan 34. Therefore, when the recovered water sensor 924 outputs a sensor value indicating that water is flowing into the recovery water channel 92, the drive of the water supply pump 913 is stopped, thereby preventing an excessive supply of water (supply water) to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32.

[0102] When the air conditioner is mounted on a moving object such as a forklift, the power to the air conditioner unit may be turned on and off in conjunction with the power switch of the forklift's engine. That is, the air conditioner may be turned on when the forklift's engine is turned on, and the air conditioner may be turned off when the forklift's engine is turned off. If the air conditioner is turned off after it is determined that the tank is empty in the previous operation, and then the first water supply timing occurs thereafter, the controller 130 may drive the water supply pump 913 for a longer period of time to supply more water than at other water supply timings, thereby performing the initial water supply operation. With this control configuration, since the unit is used in a fan-only state when the tank is empty, it is possible to suppress excessive drying, such as the vaporization filter becoming completely dry. By not always performing the initial water supply operation when the air conditioner is turned on, but only after the tank has been determined to be empty during the previous operation, it is possible to suppress the extended operating time of the water supply pump 913 and mitigate the deterioration of the water supply pump 913 due to prolonged operation.

[0103] If an excessive amount of water is supplied to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, there is a concern that sensible heat exchange between the first and second air passing through these filters and the water will be accelerated, reducing the amount of water vaporized. To address this, as described above, the water supply pump 913 can be stopped to optimize the amount of water supplied, thereby enabling efficient vaporization of the water.

[0104] When the controller 130 drives the water supply pump 913 to supply water to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, it may perform drive control of the water supply pump 913 based on the wet-bulb temperature of the outside air measured using a thermocouple provided in contact with the surface of the second vaporization filter 32. On the surface of the second vaporization filter 32 on the upstream side of the second air, for example, a thermocouple is provided in contact, and the wet-bulb temperature and dry-bulb temperature of the outside air can be measured using the thermocouple. The controller 130 may derive the vaporizable amount based on the difference between the wet-bulb temperature and the dry-bulb temperature, and predict the water supply timing according to the derived vaporizable amount and supply water. By adopting such a control mode, unnecessary water supply amounts can be reduced, the operating time of the water supply pump 913 or the recovery pump 923 can be decreased, and the aging deterioration due to long-time driving can be alleviated. Or, a thermocouple may be provided after the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, and water supply may be performed only to any vaporization filter for which an increase in temperature is confirmed by individual monitoring. Unnecessary water supply amounts can be reduced, the operating time of the water supply pump 913 or the recovery pump 923 can be decreased, and the aging deterioration due to long-time driving can be alleviated.

[0105] After the controller 130 stops driving the water supply pump 913, when the driving time of the recovery pump 923 becomes longer than the driving time of the water supply pump 913, the controller 130 stops the recovery pump 923. That is, the controller 130 controls the driving of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 by making the driving time (P2) of the recovery pump 923 longer than the driving time (P1) of the water supply pump 913 (P1 < P2). By driving the recovery pump 923 longer than the water supply pump 913, the water staying in the drain pan 34 can be surely recovered, the amount of water remaining inside the housing 11 can be reduced, and the hygiene level inside the housing 11 can be improved.

[0106] The controller 130 stops the drive of the recovery pump 923 and then starts the drive of the water supply pump 913. This start initiates the drive of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 in the next cycle. As a result, intermittent operation is performed by the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923, and the periodic drive control by the controller 130 to the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 continues. Various configurations can be adopted for this control. For example, the drive time (P1) of the water supply pump 913 may be configured to run for a predetermined time regardless of the output timing of the recovered water sensor 924. This prevents the water supply pump 913 from being stopped by detecting the output of the recovered water sensor 924 before sufficient water is supplied. Specifically, it prevents the water supply pump 913 from being stopped when the recovered water sensor 924 detects the supply water flowing down the surface of the dry first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 and sufficient water cannot be supplied. This is particularly effective during the initial operation timing of the water supply pump 913 at startup. In other words, it is possible to set the operating time to ensure sufficient water supply only during the initial operation timing of the water supply pump 913 at startup. Furthermore, since the system employs a configuration in which the recovery pump 923 actively recovers water from inside the air conditioner 1, it is possible to achieve sufficient cooling and drainage effects even with a configuration that operates intermittently at predetermined intervals.

[0107] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating one configuration of the cooling unit 3. The cooling unit 3 is housed in the housing 11, offset to the side where the intake port 5 is located. The cooling unit 3 includes a first vaporization filter 31, a second vaporization filter 32, a water supply section 33, and a drain pan 34.

[0108] A water supply unit 33 is provided above the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, and a drain pan 34 is provided below the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. In other words, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are sandwiched in the vertical direction by the water supply unit 33 and the drain pan 34.

[0109] The drain pan 34 is made of, for example, resin or metal, and has a dish-like shape with an opening at the top. The drain pan 34 is L-shaped and bent when viewed from the front. The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are placed in the regions corresponding to each side that make up the L-shape. The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are fastened to the drain pan 34, and the drain pan 34 functions as a fastening member for fastening the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32.

[0110] The drain pan 34 is divided into two regions, for example, a region corresponding to the first vaporization filter 31 (first drain region) and a region corresponding to the second vaporization filter 32 (second drain region). The first drain region is provided with a hole for communication with the first recovery water channel 921. The second drain region is provided with a hole for communication with the second recovery water channel 922.

[0111] The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 each include a rectangular filter element, which is formed from, for example, rayon, polyester, or nonwoven fabric. The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are absorbent, and water supplied from the tank 12 (supply water) permeates the entire surface of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 (filter element), thereby promoting the vaporization of the water.

[0112] The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are placed on an L-shaped drain pan 34 and fastened to the drain pan 34, thereby bending and arranging in an L-shape. The angle between the L-shaped first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 is, for example, 60 to 120 degrees. By arranging the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 in this L-shape, the inside of the L-shape can be directed toward the corner of the rectangular sensible heat exchanger 4, and the inside of the L-shape can be aligned with the corner to position the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. This improves the storage capacity of these filters and allows for a smaller housing 11.

[0113] The water supply section 33 is made of, for example, resin and has a dish shape with an opening at the top. Like the drain pan 34, the water supply section 33 has an L-shape when viewed from the front and is bent. A pipe section 335 connected to the water supply channel 91 is provided protruding from the water supply section 33, and the water (supply water) that passes through the pipe section 335 flows into the interior of the water supply section 33. Multiple rib grooves are provided on the inner surface of the dish-shaped water supply section 33, and the supply water flows along these grooves.

[0114] The water (supply water) that has passed through the pipe section 335 is divided by two branching grooves, with the flow path of one groove corresponding to the first supply water channel 911 and the flow path of the other groove corresponding to the second supply water channel 912. The first supply water channel 911 is in communication with the first vaporization filter 31, and the second supply water channel 912 is in communication with the second vaporization filter 32. The first supply water channel 911 and the second supply water channel 912, which branch off from the pipe section 335 connected to the supply water channel 91, are extended with a certain width, and then form a T-shape in which this width widens along the longitudinal direction of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, respectively.

[0115] In the first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912, a plurality of first water supply holes 331 and second water supply holes 332 are provided in the upper part (region) of the T-shape, that is, in the respective parts (regions) along the longitudinal direction of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The plurality of first water supply holes 331 in the first water supply channel 911 are provided on the side of the first outlet side opening surface 441 facing the first vaporization filter 31, that is, on the upstream side as the first air passes through the first vaporization filter 31. The plurality of second water supply holes 332 in the second water supply channel 912 are provided on the opposite side of the second inlet side opening surface 432 facing the second vaporization filter 32, that is, on the upstream side as the second air passes through the second vaporization filter 32.

[0116] By positioning the first water supply holes 331 and the second water supply holes 332 in the water supply section 33 on the upstream side in the direction of air (first air and second air) flow, the density distribution of water that has permeated the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 can be biased towards the upstream side. This promotes the vaporization of water in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, thereby improving cooling efficiency. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the phenomenon of liquid splashing, where water that has permeated the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 flows out in liquid form along with the first and second air.

[0117] A hydrophilic intervening member may be provided between the first water supply hole 331 and the first vaporization filter 31. Similarly, a hydrophilic intervening member may be provided between the second water supply hole 332 and the second vaporization filter 32. By providing such intervening members, the water supplied from the first water supply hole 331 to the first vaporization filter 31 can be supplied more uniformly, i.e., dripped. Similarly, the water supplied from the second water supply hole 332 to the second vaporization filter 32 can be supplied more uniformly, i.e., dripped. With this configuration, water can be supplied efficiently with a smaller amount of water, thus reducing the operating time of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923.

[0118] The cooling unit 3, including the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, is configured in an L-shape. This improves the ease of housing the cooling unit 3 in the housing 11 and allows for a smaller housing 11.

[0119] Figure 8 is a schematic side view illustrating an example of an air conditioner 1 mounted on a mobile unit M. The air conditioner 1, which includes a housing 11 that houses the cooling unit 3 and the like, and a tank 12 that stores the water supplied to the cooling unit 3, is mounted on a vehicle (mobile unit M), such as a forklift. In addition to forklifts, the mobile unit M can be various vehicles such as golf carts, small excavators, turrets, and trikes. In this case, by drawing power from the vehicle, the air conditioner 1 can be started simultaneously with the vehicle's startup. Furthermore, the power supply can be shared with the vehicle.

[0120] The housing 11 is placed, for example, on top of the top surface (head guard) of a forklift. The tank 12 is placed in a location lower than where the housing 11 is placed, for example, on the rear part (balance weight) of the forklift, or on a support column that supports the top surface (head guard). By placing the tank 12 below the housing 11, the water in the drain pan 34 housed in the housing 11 can be reliably collected into the tank 12 using gravity (the weight of the water itself), thereby reducing the amount of water remaining inside the housing 11 and improving hygiene inside the housing 11.

[0121] The electrical components such as the water supply pump 913, water supply sensor 914, water recovery pump 923, and water recovery sensor 924, which are located in the water supply channel 91 and water recovery channel 92, are all housed in the housing 11, and these electrical components are not mounted on the tank 12. Therefore, the structure and configuration of the tank 12 can be simplified and made lighter, and the degree of freedom in mounting the tank 12 when the air conditioner 1 is mounted on a mobile body M such as a forklift can be improved.

[0122] A discharge duct 711, whose direction of discharge can be varied (adjusted), is attached to the first air outlet 71 provided in the housing 11, and the discharge duct 711 extends downward toward the top surface on which the housing 11 is placed. Therefore, the second air outlet 72, which discharges second air (exhaust), is located at the top of the top surface, while the first air (air) can be discharged to the driver's seat of the forklift, which is the air-conditioned space, via the discharge duct 711, thereby efficiently cooling the forklift operator located in the driver's seat.

[0123] The direction of the second outlet 72, which blows out the second air (exhaust), is set to the vicinity of the discharge duct 711. This allows the second air blown out from the second outlet 72 to lower the temperature of the air surrounding the discharge duct 711 (ambient temperature). This prevents the first air (supply air) blown out from the discharge duct 711 from rising due to the outside air (air outside the housing 11).

[0124] The tank 12 and the housing 11 (cooling unit 3) are connected by a water supply channel 91 and a water recovery channel 92. For example, the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92, which are made of hoses made of flexible resin, may be arranged along the support columns that support the top surface. When arranging the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92 along the support columns, they may be fastened to the support columns using fastening members such as cable ties. This prevents the supply water channel 91 and the recovery water channel 92 from becoming detached from the tank 12 or housing 11 due to vibrations generated by the movement of the forklift.

[0125] Although an example has been described in which the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are arranged in an L-shape as shown in Figure 3, this is not limited to this example. Specifically, the first vaporization filter 31 only needs to be able to allow the first air flowing through the first flow path 61 to pass through, and the second vaporization filter 32 only needs to be able to allow the second air flowing through the second flow path 62 to pass through. For example, referring to Figure 1, the first vaporization filter 31 may be formed so as to cover the first outlet side opening surface 441 in the first flow path 61 formed between the left end of the first outlet side opening surface 441 and the front side surface of the housing 11. Similarly, the second vaporization filter 32 may be formed so as to cover the second inlet side opening surface 432 in the second flow path 62 formed between the right end of the second inlet side opening surface 432 and the front side surface of the housing 11.

[0126] (Embodiment 2) Figure 9 is a schematic front view illustrating one configuration of the air conditioner 1 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 10 is a schematic side view illustrating one configuration of the air conditioner 1. Figure 10 schematically shows the arrangement of the air conditioner 1 when viewed from the front. Note that Figure 10 schematically shows a cross-section cut along line BB in Figure 2, viewed from the front. The air conditioner 1 according to Embodiment 2, like Embodiment 1, comprises a housing 11, a tank 12, an electrical unit 13, a cooling unit 3, a sensible heat exchanger 4, a fan motor 8, a first fan 81, a second fan 82, a water supply pump 913, and a recovery pump 923, and includes a first path through which first air (supply air) flows and a second path through which second air (exhaust air) flows.

[0127] The cooling unit 3 of Embodiment 2 includes a first vaporization filter 31, a second vaporization filter 32, a water supply unit 33, and a drain pan 34, similar to Embodiment 1. The water supply unit 33 of Embodiment 2 includes a first water supply unit 33A mounted on top of the first vaporization filter 31 and a second water supply unit 33B mounted on top of the second vaporization filter 32, and differs from Embodiment 1 in that the first water supply unit 33A and the second water supply unit 33B are mounted on top of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 in a separate configuration.

[0128] As shown in the illustration of this embodiment, the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 are installed side by side above the sensible heat exchanger 4. The water supply pump 913 is installed in the water supply channel 91, similar to Embodiment 1, and in the water supply channel 91, the housing 11 (main body) and the tank 12 (separate body) are in communication via, for example, a stop valve (closing valve).

[0129] The recovery pump 923 and the water supply pump 913 may be mounted side-by-side above the sensible heat exchanger 4, and these pumps may be made accessible by opening the top panel of the housing 11. This improves the efficiency of work such as inspection or replacement of the recovery pump 923 and the water supply pump 913 during maintenance of the air conditioner 1. By mounting the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 side-by-side, it is not necessary to provide separate mounting spaces above and below them, which reduces the height of the housing 11 and allows for a more compact product.

[0130] Water (supply water) pumped from the tank 12 by the water supply pump 913 is supplied to the water supply section 33 (first water supply section 33A, second water supply section 33B) via the water supply channel 91. The water supply channel 91 between the water supply pump 913 and the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B is provided with branching channels that branch off into the first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912. These branching channels may be located above the sensible heat exchanger 4. The first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912, which are branched off by the branching channels formed in the water supply channel 91, are connected to the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B. That is, the first water supply channel 911 communicates with the first water supply section 33A, and the second water supply channel 912 communicates with the second water supply section 33B.

[0131] The first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B are separated to correspond individually to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, respectively. Furthermore, by connecting the first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912, which are branched off by the branch of the supply water channel 91, to the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an imbalance in the amount of water (water volume) supplied to the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B, respectively. In other words, the water (supply water) is divided at the branch located outside the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B. As a result, even if, for example, the air conditioner 1 mounted on a mobile body M tilts due to the movement of the mobile body M, and a difference in height occurs between the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of uneven flow in the amount of water flowing into the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B. Therefore, even if the air conditioner 1 is mounted on a mobile body M and the posture of the air conditioner 1 changes due to the condition of the road surface on which the mobile body M moves, it is possible to equalize the amount of water supplied to each of the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B.

[0132] The water (supply water) that flows into the first water supply section 33A via the first water supply channel 911 is dripped onto the first vaporization filter 31 via the first water supply hole 331, similar to Embodiment 1. The water (supply water) that flows into the second water supply section 33B via the second water supply channel 912 is dripped onto the second vaporization filter 32 via the second water supply hole 332, similar to Embodiment 1.

[0133] The recovery pump 923 is installed in the recovery channel 92, similar to Embodiment 1. In the recovery channel 92, the housing 11 (main body) and the tank 12 (separate unit) are in communication via, for example, a stop valve (closing valve). Similar to Embodiment 1, the water (recovered water) that flows into the drain pan 34 is recovered into the tank 12 via the recovery channel 92.

[0134] The water flowing down from the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 may be collected in one place in the drain pan 34, merged into a recovery channel 92, and connected to a recovery pump 923. In other words, in the drain pan 34, the first recovery channel 921 after the addition of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second recovery channel 922 after the addition of the second vaporization filter 32 may be collected (merged) in one place. With this configuration, for example, even if the air conditioner 1 is placed on a mobile body and the housing 11 tilts due to the movement of the mobile body, the water flowing down from the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 can be collected in one place in the drain pan 34, i.e., in a communication hole that communicates with the recovery channel 92, and the water can be reliably transported by the recovery pump 923. In other words, for example, if the drain pan 34 is provided with multiple communication holes, there is a concern that when the housing 11 tilts, air may be drawn in by the recovery pump 923 from one of the communication holes, preventing water from being drawn in from the other communication holes. However, by collecting the water that has flowed down from the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 in one place in the drain pan 34 and transporting it through the recovery water channel 92 by the recovery pump 923, the water can be reliably recovered into the tank 12.

[0135] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating one configuration of the cooling unit 3. The cooling unit 3 of Embodiment 2 includes a first vaporization filter 31, a second vaporization filter 32, a drain pan 34, and a water supply section 33, similar to Embodiment 1, and the water supply section 33 includes a separately configured first water supply section 33A and a second water supply section 33B.

[0136] The drain pan 34 is L-shaped, and the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are placed in the regions that make up each side of the L-shape. The first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are fastened together in an L-shape by being placed on the drain pan 34.

[0137] A first water supply unit 33A is placed on top of the first vaporization filter 31, and a second water supply unit 33B is placed on top of the second vaporization filter 32. As a result, the first water supply unit 33A and the second water supply unit 33B are arranged in an L-shape, similar to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. This configuration allows the outer shell of the cooling unit 3 to be L-shaped, improving the ease of housing the cooling unit 3 and enabling miniaturization of the housing 11 of the air conditioner 1 that houses the cooling unit 3.

[0138] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the internal structure of the water supply section 33. Figure 13 is a schematic side view illustrating one configuration of the water supply section 33. Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the main parts of the water supply section 33. Figure 12 is a view of the water supply section 33 from above, and Figure 13 is a central cross-sectional view (cross-section cut along line CC) of the water supply section 33 viewed from the pipe section 335 side. The water supply section 33 shown in Figures 12 to 14 is a modified configuration of the water supply section 33 shown in Figure 11. In the illustrations of this embodiment, the structure of the first water supply section 33A will be explained based on the first water supply section 33A that constitutes the water supply section 33. The structure of the second water supply section 33B is the same as the structure of the first water supply section 33A.

[0139] The first water supply unit 33A is a box-shaped structure with a hollow interior and includes a horizontally elongated container section 333 into which water (supply water) flows, and a rectangular top section 334 that seals the container section 333 from above. The opening located at the top of the container section 333 is closed by the top section 334, thereby sealing the container section 333 and forming the first water supply unit 33A with a hollow interior.

[0140] The area of ​​the top surface 334 (the area of ​​the top surface 334 as viewed from the front) is larger than the opening area of ​​the opening located at the top of the container portion 333, and the periphery of the top surface 334 is located outside the opening edge of the container portion 333. Therefore, the lower surface of the top surface 334 is formed with a region in which the container portion 333 is provided and a peripheral region surrounding the region in which the container portion 333 is provided.

[0141] A cylindrical pipe section 335 is provided in the central part of the side surface of the container section 333, and the supply water channel 91 (first supply water channel 911) is connected to this pipe section 335. The water (supply water) flowing through the first supply water channel 911 flows into the container section 333 via the pipe section 335. In other words, the pipe section 335 of the first water supply section 33A and the internal space of the container section 333 constitute a part of the first supply water channel 911. The container section 333 is provided along the longitudinal direction of the first vaporization filter 31 on which the first water supply section 33A is placed, and a T-shaped water channel is formed by the container section 333 and the pipe section 335 protruding from the side surface of the container section 333. This T-shaped water channel forms a part of the first supply water channel 911.

[0142] Similar to Embodiment 1, a plurality of (13 in the illustration) first water supply holes 331 are provided on the bottom surface of the container portion 333 along the longitudinal direction of the container portion 333. That is, the first water supply holes 331 are provided along the longitudinal direction of the first vaporization filter 31 on which the first water supply unit 33A is placed. As an example, the first water supply holes 331 are arranged longitudinally in a point-symmetric manner with respect to the first water supply hole 331 provided in the center of the container portion 333. The container portion 333 may be positioned upstream of the first air passing through the first vaporization filter 31, thereby biasing the first water supply holes 331 provided in the container portion 333 toward the upstream side of the first air.

[0143] Holes 336 are provided at each end of the container portion 333 in the longitudinal direction. The vent hole 336 is provided by penetrating the side of the container section 333 and is formed above the first water supply hole 331 provided on the bottom surface. For example, the vent hole 336 is provided at the very top of the container section 333. Furthermore, the opening area of ​​the vent hole 336 is made smaller than the opening area of ​​the first water supply hole 331. This allows air, which has a lower specific gravity than water, to be preferentially discharged from the vent hole 336. In other words, most of the supply water drips from the first water supply hole 331 to the first vaporization filter 31. For example, the side surface on which the vent hole 336 is provided is the side surface opposite to the side surface on which the pipe section 335 is provided. The direction in which the vent hole 336 penetrates the side surface forms a 90° angle with the direction in which the first water supply hole 331 provided on the bottom surface penetrates, that is, the direction in which the vent hole 336 penetrates is different from the direction in which the first water supply hole 331 penetrates.

[0144] Since the container section 333 is sealed by the top section 334, there is a concern that air may accumulate inside the container section 333 (first water supply section 33A). However, since the vent holes 336 are formed above the first water supply holes 331, the air accumulated above the container section 333 can be efficiently discharged. The vent holes 336 are provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the container section 333, and the pipe section 335 is provided in the central part in the longitudinal direction of the container section 333. Therefore, when water flows into the container section 333 from the pipe section 335 located in the central part, the air pushed to both ends by the water can be efficiently discharged through the vent holes 336. As an example, the vent holes 336 can be formed by having a notch formed in the wall of the container section 333 and the top section 334 facing each other. Alternatively, a recess slightly larger than the wall surface of the container portion 333 may be provided in the top portion 334, and the container portion 333 may be sealed by the top portion 334 to form the hole 336.

[0145] The lower surface of the top surface portion 334 that seals the container portion 333 from above includes the region in which the container portion 333 is provided and the surrounding region. A water receiving wall 337 is provided in the surrounding region to receive water that flows out (discharges) from the hole 336.

[0146] The water receiving wall 337 is provided projecting downward from the lower surface of the top surface portion 334, that is, toward the side of the first vaporization filter 31. The water receiving wall 337 is made up of, for example, ribs and has an L-shape. By configuring the water receiving wall 337 in an L-shape, the rigidity of the water receiving wall 337 can be improved. Also, by forming it in an L-shape, the supply water that splashes when it hits the water receiving wall 337 facing the hole 336 can be received at the L-shaped portion and reliably dripped onto the first vaporization filter 31. In the L-shaped water receiving wall 337, the wall surface corresponding to the longer side of the L is provided to be perpendicular to the direction of penetration of the hole 336. The wall surface corresponding to the shorter side of the L is provided to be parallel to the direction of penetration of the hole 336. The L-shaped water receiving wall 337 is provided with the inside of the L facing the corner of the rectangular container portion 333, and along the corner.

[0147] The hole 336, which penetrates the side of the container section 333, has an inner opening end and an outer opening end. The wall surface corresponding to the longer side of the L-shaped water receiving wall 337 is perpendicular to the direction in which the hole 336 penetrates, that is, the wall surface is provided opposite to the outer opening end of the hole 336. Therefore, water flowing out (discharged) from the hole 336 hits the wall surface corresponding to the longer side of the L-shaped water receiving wall 337, is received by the wall surface, and is then guided downward in the direction of the wall surface's projection. Below the wall surface, that is, below the first water supply section 33A, the first vaporization filter 31 is provided, so the water guided downward drips onto the first vaporization filter 31. As a result, even if the volumetric flow rate of water supplied to the first water supply section 33A (supply water) is greater than the volumetric flow rate dripping from the first water supply hole 331 to the first vaporization filter 31, water can be drained (let out) from the drain hole 336. The water that flows out from the drain hole 336 is guided downward by the water receiving wall 337 and can drip onto the first vaporization filter 31.

[0148] The wall surface corresponding to the longer side of the L-shaped water receiving wall 337 is formed in a tapered shape, such as a V-shape or U-shape, towards the downward direction of protrusion. Therefore, the tip of the tapered shape on the wall surface corresponds to the lowest part of the water receiving wall 337, and water can be efficiently dripped from this tapered tip onto the first vaporization filter 31. It is also conceivable that some of the supply water that hits the water receiving wall 337 will adhere to the outer wall of the splash-off container section 333. Furthermore, it is conceivable that some of the supply water will run down the outer wall of the container section 333 from the hole 336. For this reason, as shown in Figure 14, a rib extending downward from the hole 336 on the wall surface of the container section 333 may be provided. In the example in Figure 14, the lowest part of the rib is arranged in a straight line connecting the multiple first water supply holes 331. This makes it possible to distribute the dripping position of the supply water onto the first vaporization filter 31 and eliminate uneven distribution of the supply water in the first vaporization filter 31.

[0149] The structure of the second water supply section 33B is the same as that of the first water supply section 33A. The second water supply section 33B, like the first water supply section 33A, includes a container section 333 and a top section 334. The container section 333 is provided with a pipe section 335, a second water supply hole 332, and a drain hole 336. A water receiving wall 337 is provided protruding from the lower surface of the top section 334. The structure of the second water supply section 33B can be explained by replacing the description of the first water supply section 33A with the description of the second water supply section 33B.

[0150] When the water supply channel 91 branches into the first water supply channel 911 and the second water supply channel 912 at the branching point, there may be a difference in the amount of water supplied per unit time to the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B, respectively. Specifically, the amount of water supplied to the first water supply section 33A may be less than the amount of water supplied to the second water supply section 33B. That is, the amount of water supplied to the first vaporization filter 31 may be less than the amount of water supplied to the second vaporization filter 32. In creating this difference in the amount of water supplied to the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B, for example, the inner diameter of the first water supply channel 911 branched off at the branching point of the water supply channel 91 may be made smaller than the inner diameter of the second water supply channel 912. Alternatively, the inner diameter of the pipe section of the first water supply section 33A to which the first water supply channel 911 is connected may be made smaller than the inner diameter of the pipe section of the second water supply section 33B to which the second water supply channel 912 is connected. The first air passing through the first vaporization filter 31 is cooled by the second air in the sensible heat exchanger 4, so its saturated water vapor pressure (saturated water vapor amount) is reduced. In contrast, the second air passing through the second vaporization filter 32 is the air immediately after being drawn in from the intake port 5. Therefore, the saturated water vapor pressure of the first air passing through the first vaporization filter 31 is lower than the saturated water vapor pressure of the second air passing through the second vaporization filter 32. That is, the amount of vaporization of the first air in the first vaporization filter 31 per unit time is less than the amount of vaporization of the second air in the second vaporization filter 32. In contrast, by supplying less water to the first vaporization filter 31 than to the second vaporization filter 32, the supply of excessive water to the first vaporization filter 31 is suppressed, saving the cumulative drive time of the water supply pump 913, which in turn improves product life and reduces power consumption.

[0151] For example, a solenoid three-way valve may be installed in the branch of the water supply channel 91 to alternately supply water to the first vaporization filter 31 via the first water supply section 33A and to the second vaporization filter 32 via the second water supply section 33B. With such a configuration, the flow rate that the water supply pump 913 delivers at one time can be halved, and the lifespan of the water supply pump 913 can be extended. Alternatively, the water supply pump 913 can be made smaller, which can reduce the cost and size of the air conditioner 1 (the entire product). The solenoid three-way valve is controlled by a controller 130, for example. When controlling the solenoid three-way valve, the controller 130 may make the time for opening the valve connected to the first water supply channel 911 shorter than the time for opening the valve connected to the second water supply channel 912, thereby reducing the amount of water supplied to the first vaporization filter 31 compared to the amount of water supplied to the second vaporization filter 32.

[0152] A solenoid three-way valve may be provided that can switch between a path for collecting (draining) the water from the drain pan 34 into the tank 12 and a path for supplying water to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 without collecting (draining) the water into the tank 12. The controller 130 drives the water supply pump 913 and supplies water from the tank 12 until the drain pan 34 is filled to its maximum capacity. After that, the water is circulated between the drain pan 34 and the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 in order to supply the water from the drain pan 34 to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. After circulation, once the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are sufficiently wet, the water from the drain pan 34 is collected (drained) and returned to the tank 12. By circulating only the water accumulated in the drain pan 34, the water temperature is more easily cooled to the wet-bulb temperature, and a water cooling effect is obtained, improving the cooling performance.

[0153] (Note 1: Air conditioners in general) An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a housing 11 having a first air outlet 71 and a second air outlet 72; a first flow path 61 communicating with the first air outlet 71; a second flow path 62 communicating with the second air outlet 72; a sensible heat exchanger 4 that exchanges sensible heat between first air flowing through the first flow path 61 and second air flowing through the second flow path 62; a first vaporization filter 31 that cools the first air with the latent heat of water; and a second vaporization filter 32 that cools the second air with the latent heat of water, wherein the first vaporization filter 31 is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the flow direction of the first air, and the second vaporization filter 32 is provided upstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the flow direction of the second air.

[0154] In this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 includes two flow paths, a first flow path 61 and a second flow path 62, and a sensible heat exchanger 4 that exchanges sensible heat between the first air and the second air flowing through these flow paths. The air conditioner 1 further includes a first vaporization filter 31 and a second vaporization filter 32. The first air passing through the first vaporization filter 31 is cooled by the latent heat (heat of vaporization) of the water permeating the first vaporization filter 31, and the second air passing through the second vaporization filter 32 is cooled by the latent heat (heat of vaporization) of the water permeating the second vaporization filter 32. Since the second vaporization filter 32 is located upstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the flow direction of the second air, it flows into the sensible heat exchanger 4 after being cooled by the heat of vaporization. The first air that flows into the sensible heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the second air cooled by the second vaporization filter 32 via the sensible heat exchanger 4 and is cooled. The first air flowing out of the sensible heat exchanger 4 is further cooled by the first vaporization filter 31, which is located downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the flow direction of the first air, and then blown out as supply air (SA) from the first outlet 71 into the conditioned space. Therefore, the air conditioner 1 cools the first air blown into the conditioned space in two stages, efficiently cooling the first air and using that first air to efficiently cool the conditioned space. The air conditioner 1 configured in this way is equipped with two vaporization filters, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, in each of the first flow path 61 (supply air flow path) and the second flow path 62 (exhaust air flow path), which have different flow paths. By using the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 as a cooling source, the first air can be efficiently cooled. Of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, the first air blown into the air-conditioned space as supply air (SA) passes through the first vaporization filter 31. Therefore, the first air can be efficiently cooled while suppressing an increase in its absolute humidity. The water necessary to generate heat of vaporization is supplied to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, meaning that the water necessary to generate heat of vaporization is not directly supplied to the sensible heat exchanger 4. Consequently, the retention of water droplets in the first path 41 and the second path 42, which are located inside the sensible heat exchanger 4, can be suppressed.

[0155] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are fastened together in an L-shape by a fastening member.

[0156] In this embodiment, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are fastened together in an L-shape by fastening members, which improves the ease of housing them in the housing 11 and allows for miniaturization of the housing 11.

[0157] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure, the fastening member is a drain pan 34 that receives water that has not vaporized in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32.

[0158] In this embodiment, by using an L-shaped drain pan 34 provided below the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 as a fastening member, dedicated parts for fastening the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are eliminated, thereby enabling miniaturization and weight reduction of the air conditioner 1.

[0159] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the sensible heat exchanger 4 is housed in the housing 11 such that the inner surface of the housing 11 and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger 4 facing the inner surface form an acute angle.

[0160] In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger is housed in the housing 11 such that the inner surface of the housing 11 and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger 4 facing the inner surface form an acute angle, for example, in the range of 10 to 50 degrees. That is, the sensible heat exchanger 4 is housed in the housing 11 in a state where the inner surface of the housing 11 and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger 4 facing the inner surface are parallel (position), and is rotated by an angle of rotation corresponding to the acute angle. By housing the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the housing 11 in this state rotated by a predetermined angle of rotation, a large heat exchange area (heat exchange surface area) can be secured in the sensible heat exchanger 4 relative to the size of the housing 11.

[0161] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the sensible heat exchanger 4 includes a first path 41 through which the first air flows and a second path 42 through which the second air flows, the first vaporization filter 31 covers the outlet of the first path 41 and the second vaporization filter 32 covers the inlet of the second path 42.

[0162] In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger 4 includes a first path 41 through which first air flows and a second path 42 through which second air flows. Therefore, the first path 41 constitutes a part of the first flow path 61, and the second path 42 constitutes a part of the second flow path 62. The first vaporization filter 31, which is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the direction of the first air flow, is provided so as to cover the outlet of the first path 41, and can efficiently cool the first air that flows out of the outlet of the first path 41 (flows out from the sensible heat exchanger 4). That is, the first vaporization filter 31 covers the first outlet-side opening surface 441 where the outlet of the first path 41 is formed, so that all of the first air that flows out of the outlet of the first path 41 passes through the first vaporization filter 31. The second vaporization filter 32, located upstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the second airflow direction, is positioned to cover the inlet of the second path 42. This allows for efficient cooling of the second air flowing into the inlet of the second path 42 (and into the sensible heat exchanger 4). In other words, the second vaporization filter 32 covers the second inlet-side opening surface 432, where the inlet of the second path 42 is formed, so that all of the second air flowing into the inlet of the second path 42 passes through the second vaporization filter 32. This configuration reduces the flow rate of air that bypasses the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32.

[0163] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first path 41 and the second path 42 are provided intersecting each other when forming a straight-line alternating current in the sensible heat exchanger 4, and the angle formed by one surface of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 facing the sensible heat exchanger 4 is greater than or equal to the intersection angle of the first path 41 and the second path 42.

[0164] In this embodiment, the first path 41 and the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4 are provided intersecting, thereby forming a direct alternating current between the first air and the second air. The angle formed by the end faces of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 facing the sensible heat exchanger 4 is greater than or equal to the intersection angle of the first path 41 and the second path 42, for example, between 60 and 120 degrees. Note that the intersection angle of the first path 41 and the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4 may be a rhombus with an angle between 60 and 120 degrees, rather than 90 degrees. In this case, the angle formed by the end faces of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 may be ±30 degrees of the intersection angle. Therefore, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, fastened together by fastening members, can be positioned with the inside of the L-shape formed from the end face of each of them facing the corner of the rectangular sensible heat exchanger 4. This improves the storage capacity of these filters and allows for a miniaturization of the housing 11.

[0165] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the distance between the first outlet-side opening surface 441, which is provided with the outlet of the first path 41 in the sensible heat exchanger 4, and the inner surface of the housing 11 facing the first outlet-side opening surface 441 increases as it moves downstream of the first air.

[0166] In this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger 4 is housed in the housing 11 such that the distance between the first outlet-side opening surface 441 of the sensible heat exchanger 4 and the inner surface of the housing 11 facing the first outlet-side opening surface 441 increases as it moves downstream of the first air. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path 61 located downstream of the outlet of the first path 41 provided on the first outlet-side opening surface 441 can be gradually increased downstream, thereby reducing the pressure loss to the first air flowing out from the outlet of the first path 41.

[0167] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 11 is provided with an intake port 5 into which the first air and the second air are drawn in, and a dust collection filter 53 is interposed between the intake port 5 and the sensible heat exchanger 4, and the dust collection filter 53 is curved to cover the inlet of the first path 41 and the inlet of the second path 42.

[0168] In this embodiment, the dust collection filter 53 interposed between the intake port 5 and the sensible heat exchanger 4 is curved to cover the inlet of the first path 41 and the inlet of the second path 42 of the sensible heat exchanger 4. Therefore, by sharing the dust collection filter 53 between the first path 61 and the second path 62, the number of parts in the air conditioner 1 can be reduced. Even if the inlet of the first path 41 and the inlet of the second path 42 are located on different end faces of the sensible heat exchanger 4, a single dust collection filter 53 can be curved to cover the inlets of both the first path 41 and the second path 42, thereby suppressing dust from entering the inside of the sensible heat exchanger 4.

[0169] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure, sealing members 531 are provided at each end of the dust collection filter 53.

[0170] In this embodiment, since sealing members 531 are provided at both ends of the dust collection filter 53, it is possible to suppress the inflow of air into the sensible heat exchanger 4 without passing through the dust collection filter 53.

[0171] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the space between the sensible heat exchanger 4 and the intake port 5 is divided by the dust collection filter 53 into an upstream space and a downstream space in the flow direction of the first air and the second air. In the downstream space, a branching channel 52 is formed which divides the intake air drawn in from the intake port 5 into the first air flowing in the first path 41 and the second air flowing in the second path 42.

[0172] In this embodiment, the space between the sensible heat exchanger 4 and the intake port 5 is divided by a dust collection filter 53 into an upstream space and a downstream space in the flow direction of the first air and the second air. A branching channel 52 is formed in the downstream space, which branches into a first path 41 and a second path 42. Therefore, while the intake port 5 and the dust collection filter 53 are shared in the first path 41 and the second path 42, the flow branches into a first path 41 through which the first air flows and a second path 42 through which the second air flows in the downstream space downstream of the dust collection filter 53, allowing the separated first air and second air to flow into the sensible heat exchanger 4 efficiently. The upstream space is the space through which the intake air flows before it is branched into the first air and the second air, and corresponds to the intake channel 51. This intake channel 51 (upstream space) is in communication with the outside of the housing 11 via the intake port 5. Since the suction passage 51 (upstream space) is a shared path between the first path 41 and the second path 42, the suction port 5 can also be shared between the first path 41 and the second path 42. This improves the flexibility of placement when providing a perforated suction port 5 in the housing 11, and while ensuring the strength of the housing 11, it is possible to increase the opening area of ​​the suction port 5 and reduce flow resistance (pressure loss) in the intake air.

[0173] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure, a water supply channel 91 for supplying water to the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32 is provided in the upstream space.

[0174] In this embodiment, the upstream space corresponds to the intake channel 51 through which the intake air drawn in from the intake port 5 flows, and the temperature of the intake air is equivalent to the ambient air temperature outside the housing 11. The water flowing in the supply water channel 91 located in the upstream space (intake channel 51) exchanges heat with the intake air flowing in the intake channel 51. For example, if the water temperature of the water flowing in the supply water channel 91 is higher than the ambient air temperature, the water can be cooled by the intake air, improving the cooling efficiency of the air conditioner 1. The outer surface of the supply water channel 91 located in the upstream space may be provided with fins or the like to increase the heat transfer area when exchanging heat with the intake air, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency.

[0175] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 11 is provided with a door portion 111 that can be opened and closed on the side where the first vaporization filter 31 is provided, and a suppression member 112 is provided on the inner surface of the door portion 111 to suppress air from entering the first flow path 61 without passing through the first vaporization filter 31.

[0176] In this embodiment, a door portion 111 that can be opened and closed is provided on the side of the housing 11 on the side where the first vaporization filter 31 is installed. By opening the door portion 111 (setting it to the open state), it is possible to access the inside of the housing 11 from the outside and perform maintenance work such as replacing the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32. A suppression member 112 is provided on the inner surface of the door portion 111 to suppress the entry of air into the first flow path 61 without passing through the first vaporization filter 31. This prevents air that has not been cooled by the first vaporization filter 31 from entering the first flow path 61 downstream of the first vaporization filter 31. The provision of the suppression member 112 on the inner surface of the door portion 111 includes not only cases where the suppression member 112 is attached to the inner surface of the door portion 111, but also cases where the suppression member 112 is attached to the first vaporization filter 31 or to the fastening member that fastens the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. In this case, closing the door portion 111 (to the closed state) may cause the inner surface of the door portion 111 to press against the suppression member 112, thereby preventing air from entering the first flow path 61 without passing through the first vaporization filter 31.

[0177] An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a tank 12 provided outside the housing 11, a water supply channel 91 that supplies water from the tank 12 to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, and a water recovery channel 92 that recovers water that has not vaporized by the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 into the tank 12.

[0178] In this embodiment, by providing the tank 12, which holds the water supplied to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, on the outside of the housing 11, it becomes unnecessary to house the tank 12 within the housing 11, thereby reducing the size and weight of the housing 11. As a result, for example, when the air conditioner 1 is mounted on a mobile body M such as a forklift, the housing 11, which is the main body of the air conditioner 1, and the tank 12, which is configured separately from the housing 11, can be mounted at a distance from each other, and the housing 11 and the tank 12 can be mounted according to the shape of the mobile body M on which the air conditioner 1 is mounted. The tank 12 and the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are connected by a supply water channel 91 and a recovery water channel 92, that is, a circulation circuit is formed in which water is recovered (returned) to the tank 12 via the tank 12, the supply water channel 91, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, and the recovery water channel 92. This circulation circuit efficiently recovers water that has not vaporized in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 into the tank 12, thereby reducing the amount of water remaining inside the housing 11. For water that has permeated the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 may be dried by, for example, performing a waterless operation where the fan is driven without supplying water from the tank 12 after the stop button is pressed by the operator of the air conditioner 1.

[0179] (Note 2: Configuration of cooling unit 3) A cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a cooling unit 3 used in an air conditioner 1 for cooling a space to be air-conditioned, comprising a first vaporization filter 31 that cools first air blown into the space to be air-conditioned by the latent heat of water, and a second vaporization filter 32 that cools second air that exchanges sensible heat with the first air by the latent heat of water, wherein the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are fastened together in an L-shape by a fastening member.

[0180] In this embodiment, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 included in the cooling unit 3 are fastened in an L-shape by fastening members, thereby improving storage capacity and enabling miniaturization of the housing 11 of the air conditioner 1 that houses the cooling unit 3.

[0181] In a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the fastening member is a drain pan 34 that receives water that has not vaporized in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32.

[0182] In this embodiment, by using an L-shaped drain pan 34 provided below the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 as a fastening member, dedicated parts for fastening the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are eliminated, thereby enabling miniaturization and weight reduction of the air conditioner 1.

[0183] In a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the drain pan 34 is L-shaped, and the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 are placed in the regions that constitute each side of the L-shape in the drain pan 34.

[0184] In this embodiment, a drain pan 34 is L-shaped, and a first vaporization filter 31 and a second vaporization filter 32 are placed in the regions that make up each side of the L-shape. Since both the drain pan 34 and the first vaporization filter 31 and second vaporization filter 32 placed on the drain pan 34 are L-shaped when viewed from the front, the cooling unit 3 can also be configured in an L-shape. Therefore, the storage capacity of the cooling unit 3 can be improved, and the housing 11 of the air conditioner 1 that houses the cooling unit 3 can be made smaller.

[0185] In a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a first water supply unit 33A for supplying water to the first vaporization filter 31 and a second water supply unit 33B for supplying water to the second vaporization filter 32 are provided, wherein the first water supply unit 33A is placed on top of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second water supply unit 33B is placed on top of the second vaporization filter 32, so that the first water supply unit 33A and the second water supply unit 33B form an L shape.

[0186] In this embodiment, the cooling unit 3 includes a water supply unit 33 that supplies water to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32. The water supply unit 33 includes a first water supply unit 33A that is placed on top of the first vaporization filter 31 and a second water supply unit 33B that is placed on top of the second vaporization filter 32. Since the first water supply unit 33A and the second water supply unit 33B, which are placed on top of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, are L-shaped, similar to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, the storage capacity of the cooling unit 3 can be improved, and the housing 11 of the air conditioner 1 that houses the cooling unit 3 can be made smaller.

[0187] In a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first water supply hole 331 formed in the first water supply section 33A is provided on the upstream side of the first vaporization filter 31 in the first airflow direction, and the second water supply hole 332 formed in the second water supply section 33B is provided on the upstream side of the second vaporization filter 32 in the second airflow direction.

[0188] In this embodiment, the first water supply hole 331 formed in the first water supply section 33A is located upstream of the first vaporization filter 31 in the first airflow direction, and the second water supply hole 332 formed in the second water supply section 33B is located upstream of the second vaporization filter 32 in the second airflow direction. In other words, both the first water supply hole 331 and the second water supply hole 332 are located upstream in their respective airflow directions. Therefore, the density distribution of water that has permeated the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 can be biased towards the upstream side in their respective airflow directions, thereby promoting the vaporization of water in the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 and improving cooling efficiency.

[0189] In a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B are provided with vents 336 for releasing air or water, and the vents 336 are provided above the first water supply hole 331 formed in the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply hole 332 formed in the second water supply section 33B.

[0190] In this embodiment, since the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B are formed with vents 336 for releasing air or water, even if the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B are constructed of a box-shaped body with a hollow internal structure, air inside the box can be discharged through the vents 336, preventing air from accumulating inside. Since the vents 336 are located above the first water supply holes 331 and the second water supply holes 332, air inside the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B can be efficiently discharged. While the penetration direction of the first water supply holes 331 and the second water supply holes 332 is downward toward the side of the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, the penetration direction of the vents 336 may be different from that of the first water supply holes 331 and the second water supply holes 332, and the vents 336 may be formed facing sideways.

[0191] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the cooling unit 3 is provided with a water receiving wall 337 that receives water flowing out from the hole 336, and the water receiving wall 337 is provided so as to protrude toward the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32.

[0192] In this embodiment, the first water supply holes 331 and the second water supply holes 332 are oriented downwards toward the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32, while the direction of penetration of the vent hole 336 is different from that of the first water supply holes 331 and the second water supply holes 332, and the vent hole 336 is formed facing sideways. That is, the vent hole 336 is provided by penetrating the side wall of the container portion 333 in the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B. Accordingly, the vent hole 336 comprises an inner opening end of the container portion 333 and an outer opening end of the container portion 333. Opposite the outer opening end of the vent hole 336 is a water receiving wall 337 that receives water flowing out of the vent hole 336. Since the water receiving wall 337 is provided projecting toward the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32, even if water flows out of the vent hole 336 along with air, the flowing water is received by the water receiving wall 337 and dripped toward the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32, which is the direction in which the water receiving wall 337 projects. In other words, the water receiving wall 337 functions as a guide wall that guides the water flowing out of the vent hole 336 toward the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32.

[0193] In a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the water receiving wall 337 has a tapered shape.

[0194] In this embodiment, the water receiving wall 337 protrudes from the first water supply section 33A and the second water supply section 33B toward the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32 located below them, and has a tapered shape. Therefore, the tip of the tapered shape corresponds to the lowest part of the water receiving wall 337, and water can be efficiently dripped from this tapered tip onto the first vaporization filter 31 or the second vaporization filter 32.

[0195] An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a cooling unit 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a first path 41 through which the first air flows, and a second path 42 through which the second air flows, and comprises a sensible heat exchanger 4 that performs sensible heat exchange between the first air and the second air, wherein the first vaporization filter 31 is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the flow direction of the first air, and the second vaporization filter 32 is provided upstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the flow direction of the second air.

[0196] In this embodiment, the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 of the cooling unit 3 are L-shaped and bent. Therefore, the inside of the L-shape can be directed towards, for example, the corner of the rectangular sensible heat exchanger 4, and the inside of the L-shape can be aligned with the corner to which the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32 can be positioned, improving the storage capacity of the cooling unit 3 and enabling miniaturization of the housing 11 of the air conditioner 1. The first vaporization filter 31 is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the first airflow direction, and the second vaporization filter 32 is provided upstream of the sensible heat exchanger 4 in the second airflow direction. Therefore, in the sensible heat exchanger 4, the first air is cooled by the second air cooled by the second vaporization filter 32, and then the first air is further cooled by the first vaporization filter 31 before being blown into the air-conditioned space.

[0197] (Note 3: Cooling of electrical unit 13) An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a housing 11 having a first outlet 71 and a second outlet 72; a first flow path 61 communicating with the first outlet 71 and through which first air cooled by the latent heat of water flows; a second flow path 62 communicating with the second outlet 72 and through which second air cooled by the latent heat of water flows; and an electrical unit 13 housed in the housing 11, wherein the electrical unit 13 is provided facing the second flow path 62 and is cooled by the second air after sensible heat exchange has taken place with the first air.

[0198] In this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 comprises a first flow path 61 through which first air cooled by the latent heat of water flows, and a second flow path 62 through which second air cooled by the latent heat of water flows. The first air cooled using the latent heat of water (heat of vaporization) is blown out as supply air from a first outlet 71 into the air-conditioned space. The electrical unit 13, housed in the casing 11 of the air conditioner 1 and a heat source due to its power consumption, is positioned facing the second flow path 62 through which the second air flows, and therefore the electrical unit 13 can be cooled by the second air. Since the second air that cools the electrical unit 13 is second air that has undergone sensible heat exchange with the first air, the electrical unit 13 can be cooled using the coldness of the second air blown out as exhaust air from the second outlet 72. Therefore, the electrical unit 13 can be efficiently cooled without affecting the first air blown out from the first outlet 71 as supply air.

[0199] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 1 includes a second fan 82 that transports the second air through the second flow path 62, and a fan casing 84 that constitutes a part of the second flow path 62 and houses the second fan 82, wherein the fan casing 84 housing the second fan 82 and the electrical unit 13 are thermally connected.

[0200] In this embodiment, by thermally connecting the fan casing 84 housing the second fan 82 with the electrical unit 13, the heat transfer efficiency between the second air flowing through the fan casing 84 and the electrical unit 13 is improved, and the electrical unit 13 can be efficiently cooled using the second air.

[0201] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a through hole 841 is formed in the portion of the fan casing 84 that the electrical unit 13 faces, and a part of the electrical unit 13 is exposed through the through hole 841.

[0202] In this embodiment, a through-hole 841 is formed in the fan casing 84, and a part of the electrical unit 13 is exposed through the through-hole 841. Therefore, the part of the electrical unit 13 exposed through the through-hole 841 comes into direct contact with the second air flowing inside the fan casing 84, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency between the second air and the electrical unit 13, and enabling efficient cooling of the electrical unit 13 using the second air.

[0203] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the electrical unit 13 includes a substrate 131, a sealing plate 133 that seals the through hole 841 from the side of the electrical unit 13, and a heat transfer promoting member 132 interposed between the substrate 131 and the sealing plate 133, wherein a part of the sealing plate 133 is exposed from the through hole 841.

[0204] In this embodiment, a portion of the electrical unit 13 exposed through the through hole 841 is a portion of the sealing plate 133 that seals the through hole 841 from the electrical unit 13 side, and the sealing plate 133 is, for example, a portion of the exterior of the electrical unit 13 which forms a box. The electrical unit 13 includes a substrate 131 on which electrical components that serve as heat sources are mounted, and a heat transfer promoting member 132, which is made of a heat dissipation material with high thermal conductivity, is interposed between the substrate 131 and the sealing plate 133. As a result, the heat generated from the substrate 131 can be efficiently dissipated into the internal space of the fan casing 84 via the heat transfer promoting member 132 and the sealing plate 133.

[0205] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of the fan casing 84 housing the second fan 82 is formed by the inner surface of the housing 11.

[0206] In this embodiment, a portion of the fan casing 84 housing the second fan 82 is formed by the inner surface of the housing 11. Therefore, the inner surface of the housing 11 is cooled by the second air flowing through the fan casing 84, mitigating the rise in temperature of the outer surface of the housing 11 due to the influence of outside air, and suppressing a decrease in the cooling capacity of the air conditioner 1.

[0207] An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first fan 81 that transports the first air through the first flow path 61, and a fan casing 84 that constitutes a part of the first flow path 61 and houses the first fan 81, wherein the fan casing 84 housing the first fan 81 is made of a heat transfer suppression member.

[0208] In this embodiment, the fan casing 84 housing the first fan 81 is made of a heat transfer suppressing material with low thermal conductivity (having heat insulating properties), such as expanded polystyrene. This reduces the influence of the outside air temperature on the first air passing through the fan casing 84 housing the first fan 81, and suppresses the rise in the temperature of the first air.

[0209] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a partition plate 83 is provided in the fan casing 84 that separates the space in which the first fan 81 is provided from the space in which the second fan 82 is provided, and a fan motor 8 that drives the first fan 81 and the second fan 82 is located in the space in which the second fan 82 is provided.

[0210] In this embodiment, the first fan 81 and the second fan 82 share a single fan motor 8, thereby reducing the number of parts in the air conditioner 1 and making it lighter. A partition plate 83 is provided inside the fan casing 84, and the partition plate 83 divides the internal space of the fan casing 84 into a space where the first fan 81 is installed (the fan chamber of the first fan 81) and a space where the second fan 82 is installed (the fan chamber of the second fan 82). The partition plate 83 is made of, for example, a resin material, and furthermore, the partition plate 83 on the fan chamber side of the first fan 81 may have a laminated structure in which a heat transfer suppressing material with low thermal conductivity, such as expanded polystyrene, is attached. Alternatively, the partition plate 83 may be made of a heat transfer suppressing material such as a hollow material having an air layer inside. The heat transfer suppressing member, which constitutes at least a part of the partition plate 83, reduces the thermal conductivity of the partition plate 83, thereby suppressing heat exchange between the first air in the fan chamber of the first fan 81 and the second air in the fan chamber of the second fan 82, and preventing the temperature of the first air from rising. Since the fan motor 8 is located in the space where the second fan 82 is provided, the fan motor 8 can be cooled by the second air, i.e., exhaust air. As a result, the fan motor 8 can be efficiently cooled using the cooling effect of the second air (exhaust air) without raising the temperature of the first air (supply air) transported by the first fan 81.

[0211] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first air outlet 71 and the second air outlet 72 are provided on the same side surface of the housing 11, and the second air outlet 72 is oriented toward the first air outlet 71.

[0212] In this embodiment, the first air outlet 71 and the second air outlet 72 are provided on the same side surface of the housing 11, and the second air outlet 72 is provided facing the direction of the first air outlet 71. Therefore, for example, if a long discharge duct 711 is attached to the first outlet 71, the second air blown out as exhaust from the second outlet 72 lowers the temperature of the surrounding air (ambient temperature) of the discharge duct 711 attached to the first outlet 71, thereby suppressing the temperature of the first air (supply air) blown out from the discharge duct 711 from rising due to the outside air (air outside the housing 11).

[0213] (Note 4: Mobile unit M, pump control) An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a cooling unit 3 that cools the air blown into a space to be air-conditioned by the latent heat of water, a housing 11 that houses the cooling unit 3, and a tank 12 provided outside the housing 11 for storing water supplied to the cooling unit 3, wherein the housing 11 and the tank 12 are connected by a water channel through which the water flows.

[0214] In this embodiment, the tank 12 for storing water supplied to the cooling unit 3 is provided outside the housing 11 that houses the cooling unit 3, and the tank 12 and the housing 11 are connected by a water channel, which is made of, for example, a hose made of flexible resin or a pipe made of rigid resin. In other words, the tank 12 is configured separately from the housing 11, which corresponds to the main body of the air conditioner 1. Therefore, the weight of the housing 11 (the main body of the air conditioner 1) can be reduced, and the degree of freedom in mounting the housing 11 to any location can be improved. Furthermore, the housing 11 and the tank 12 that constitute the air conditioner 1 can be mounted at a distance from each other, further improving the degree of freedom in mounting the air conditioner 1.

[0215] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 11 and the tank 12 are mounted on a mobile body M, and the portion of the mobile body M on which the tank 12 is mounted is located lower than the portion of the mobile body M on which the housing 11 is mounted.

[0216] In this embodiment, when the air conditioner 1 is mounted on a mobile body M consisting of a vehicle such as a forklift or tractor, the housing 11 and the tank 12 are spaced apart and mounted on separate parts of the mobile body M. Since the part of the mobile body M on which the tank 12 is mounted is located lower than the part of the mobile body M on which the housing 11 is mounted, even if unvaporized liquid water remains inside the housing 11, the unvaporized water can be recovered into the tank 12 by gravity. This reduces the amount of water remaining inside the housing 11 and improves hygiene inside the housing 11. By mounting the tank 12 below the housing 11, accessibility (touchability) to the tank 12 is improved, and the work of replenishing water in the tank 12 can be made easier.

[0217] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the mobile body M is a forklift, the part of the mobile body M on which the housing 11 is mounted is the upper part of the head guard of the forklift, and the part of the mobile body M on which the tank 12 is mounted is the upper part of the balance weight of the forklift.

[0218] In this embodiment, when the air conditioner 1 is mounted on the forklift, the housing 11 is mounted on top of the forklift's head guard, and the tank 12 is mounted on top of the forklift's balance weight. The balance weight corresponds to a part of the forklift that has a high proportion of its weight distribution, and the tank 12, which is mounted on the balance weight, is mounted closer to the center of gravity of the forklift than the housing 11, which is mounted on the head guard. This reduces the disruption of the liquid level in tank 12 due to vibrations associated with the movement of the mobile unit M, and enables efficient water supply from tank 12 to cooling unit 3.

[0219] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 11 is provided with a discharge duct 711 that extends toward the space surrounding the operator of the mobile body M, which is the space to be air-conditioned.

[0220] In this embodiment, since the discharge duct 711 provided on the housing 11 extends toward the space surrounding the operator of the mobile body M, regardless of which part of the mobile body M the housing 11 is placed on, cooled air can be blown out through the discharge duct 711 toward the space surrounding the operator of the mobile body M.

[0221] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the water channel includes a supply water channel 91 for supplying water to the cooling unit 3 and a recovery water channel 92 for recovering water that has not vaporized in the cooling unit 3, and the tank 12, the supply water channel 91, the cooling unit 3, and the recovery water channel 92 form a circulation circuit through which water circulates.

[0222] In this embodiment, the water channel connecting the housing 11 and the tank 12 includes a supply channel 91 for supplying water to the cooling unit 3 and a recovery channel 92 for recovering water that did not vaporize in the cooling unit 3. A circulation circuit is formed in which water circulates in the order of tank 12, supply channel 91, cooling unit 3, and recovery channel 92, starting from the tank 12. In other words, by having this circulation circuit, the air conditioner 1 can recover water that did not vaporize in the cooling unit 3 into the tank 12 and supply this water back to the cooling unit 3, thereby reducing water consumption and decreasing the number of times water is replenished in the tank 12.

[0223] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the cooling unit 3 includes a first vaporization filter 31 for cooling first air blown out as supply air into the air-conditioned space, and a second vaporization filter 32 for cooling second air that has undergone sensible heat exchange with the first air and is then blown out as exhaust air to the outside of the housing 11, and the circulation circuit includes a branching path that branches into a waterway through the first vaporization filter 31 and a waterway through the second vaporization filter 32.

[0224] In this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 is equipped with two vaporization filters, a first vaporization filter 31 for cooling the first air and a second vaporization filter 32 for cooling the second air, thereby improving the cooling capacity. The circulation circuit includes a branching path that branches into a water channel (first supply water channel 911, first recovery water channel 921) via the first vaporization filter 31 and a water channel (second supply water channel 912, second recovery water channel 922) via the second vaporization filter, and a confluence path where the branched water channels via the first vaporization filter 31 and the water channels via the second vaporization filter merge. As a result, a parallel path consisting of a water channel communicating with the first vaporization filter 31 and a water channel communicating with the second vaporization filter 32 is configured as part of the circulation circuit, thereby enabling efficient water supply to the first vaporization filter 31 and the second vaporization filter 32.

[0225] An air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a water supply pump 913 for transporting water flowing in the water supply channel 91 and a recovery pump 923 for transporting water flowing in the recovery channel 92.

[0226] In this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 is equipped with a water supply pump 913 provided in the water supply channel 91 and a water recovery pump 923 provided in the water recovery channel 92. Therefore, even if the air conditioner 1 is mounted on a mobile body M and the posture of the air conditioner 1 changes due to the condition of the road surface on which the mobile body M moves, causing the housing 11 and tank 12 to tilt, the water flowing through the water supply channel 91 and the water recovery channel 92 can be reliably transported.

[0227] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 1 includes a recovered water sensor 924 for detecting water flowing in the recovery water channel 92, and a controller 130 that is communicatively connected to the recovered water sensor 924, the water supply pump 913, and the recovery pump 923. The controller 130 controls the drive of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 based on the sensor value output from the recovered water sensor 924.

[0228] In this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 is equipped with a controller 130, which is composed of, for example, a microcontroller. The controller 130 controls the operation of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 based on sensor values ​​output from a recovered water sensor 924 that detects the water flowing in the recovery water channel 92. The amount of water vaporized from the tank 12 varies depending on the operating environment of the air conditioner 1, that is, the temperature and absolute humidity of the air drawn in by the air conditioner 1. The water flowing in the recovery water channel 92 is water that remains in liquid form in the cooling unit 3 without vaporizing. Therefore, by controlling the operation of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 based on sensor values ​​from the recovered water sensor 924, the amount of water supplied can be optimized according to the operating environment of the air conditioner 1.

[0229] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 130 stops the water supply pump 913 when the sensor value output from the recovered water sensor 924 indicates that the amount of water flowing in the recovered water channel 92 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0230] In this embodiment, the controller 130 may stop the water supply pump 913 if the sensor value output from the recovered water sensor 924 indicates that the amount of water flowing in the recovery channel 92 is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, and may also drive the water supply pump 913 if the sensor value indicates that the amount of water flowing in the recovery channel 92 is less than a predetermined amount. By setting the predetermined amount to, for example, 0 [kg / s] as a mass flow rate, the controller 130 can control the stopping and driving of the water supply pump 913 based on the presence or absence of water flowing in the recovery channel 92. When there is water flowing in the recovery channel 92 (water is flowing in the recovery channel 92), it indicates that water remains in a liquid state in the cooling unit 3 without vaporizing, and the controller 130 can stop the water supply pump 913 to prevent excessive water supply to the cooling unit 3 and improve vaporization efficiency.

[0231] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 130 performs intermittent operation by repeatedly driving and stopping the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923.

[0232] In this embodiment, the controller 130 performs intermittent operation by repeatedly driving and stopping the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923, thereby preventing excessive water supply to the cooling unit 3.

[0233] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 130 controls the operation of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 by providing a predetermined delay time between the start of operation of the water supply pump 913 and the start of operation of the recovery pump 923.

[0234] In this embodiment, the controller 130 periodically performs intermittent operation by repeatedly driving and stopping the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923, and drives the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 with a predetermined delay time between the start of driving the water supply pump 913 and the start of driving the recovery pump 923 in the same cycle. That is, when the water supply pump 913 starts to drive, the recovery pump 923 has not started to drive and is stopped. After the water supply pump 913 starts to drive and water is supplied to the cooling unit 3, for a while the supplied water tends to be absorbed by the vaporization filters (first vaporization filter 31, second vaporization filter 32) included in the cooling unit 3, so there is a concern that the recovery pump 923 may run idly even if it is driven. In contrast, by providing a predetermined delay time between the start of operation of the water supply pump 913 and the start of operation of the recovery pump 923, it is possible to prevent the recovery pump 923 from being driven unnecessarily and reduce the power consumption of the recovery pump 923.

[0235] In an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 130 controls the operation of the water supply pump 913 and the recovery pump 923 by making the operation time of the recovery pump 923 longer than the operation time of the water supply pump 913.

[0236] In this embodiment, the controller 130 drives the recovery pump 923 for a longer period than the water supply pump 913, thereby reliably recovering water accumulated in the cooling unit 3, reducing the amount of water remaining inside the housing 11, and improving hygiene inside the housing 11.

[0237] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not in the sense described above, and all modifications within the sense and scope equivalent to the claims are intended. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0238] 1 Air conditioner 11. Enclosure (main unit) 111 Door section 112 Suppression member 12 tanks (separate) 13 Electrical Unit 130 Controllers 131 circuit boards 132 Heat transfer promoting member 133 Sealing plate 3 Cooling Unit 31. First vaporization filter 32. Second vaporization filter 33 Water supply section 33A 1st water supply section 33B 2nd water supply section 331 1st water supply hole 332 2nd water supply hole 333 Container section 334 Top section 335 Pipe section 336 Hole extraction 337 Water receiving wall 34. Drain pan (connecting component) 4. Sensible heat exchanger 41. First Route 42 Second Route 431 First entrance side opening 432 Second entrance side opening surface 441 1st exit side opening surface 442 2nd exit side opening surface 5. Inlet 51 Suction channel (upstream space) 52 Branch channel (downstream space) 53 Dust collection filter 531 Sealing member 61 First channel 62 Second channel 71 1st outlet 711 Outlet duct 72 2nd outlet 8 Fan motor 81 First Fan 82 Second Fan 83 Partition Plate 84 Fan Casing 841 Through hole 91 Supply waterway 911 1st Supply Channel 912 2nd supply waterway 913 Water supply pump 914 Water supply sensor 92 Recovery channel 921 First Recovery Channel 922 Second Recovery Channel 923 Recovery Pump 924 Water Recovery Sensor 991 1st water supply area 992 2nd water supply area M Mobile vehicle (forklift)

Claims

1. A housing having a first air outlet and a second air outlet, A first flow path communicating with the first outlet, A second flow path communicating with the second outlet, A sensible heat exchanger that exchanges sensible heat between the first air flowing through the first channel and the second air flowing through the second channel, A first vaporization filter that cools the first air with the latent heat of water, The system comprises a second vaporization filter that cools the second air using the latent heat of water, The first vaporization filter is provided downstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the first airflow direction, The second vaporization filter is located upstream of the sensible heat exchanger in the direction of the second airflow. An air conditioner characterized by the following features.

2. The first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter are fastened together in an L-shape by a fastening member. The air conditioner according to feature 1.

3. The fastening member is a drain pan that receives water that has not vaporized in the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter. The air conditioner according to feature 2.

4. The sensible heat exchanger is housed in the housing such that the inner surface of the housing and the end face of the sensible heat exchanger facing the inner surface form an acute angle. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The sensible heat exchanger includes a first path through which the first air flows and a second path through which the second air flows. The first vaporization filter covers the outlet of the first path, The second vaporization filter covers the inlet of the second path. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. In the aforementioned sensible heat exchanger, the first and second paths are provided to intersect in order to form a straight alternating current. The angle formed by one surface of the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter facing the sensible heat exchanger is greater than or equal to the intersection angle of the first path and the second path. The air conditioner according to feature 5.

7. The distance between the first outlet-side opening surface of the sensible heat exchanger, where the outlet of the first path is provided, and the inner surface of the housing facing the first outlet-side opening surface increases as you move downstream of the first air. The air conditioner according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by the features described above.

8. The housing is provided with an intake port into which the first air and the second air are drawn in. A dust collection filter is interposed between the aforementioned intake port and the aforementioned sensible heat exchanger. The dust collection filter is curved to cover the inlet of the first path and the inlet of the second path. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that it is an air conditioner.

9. Each end of the dust collection filter is provided with a sealing member. The air conditioner according to feature 8.

10. The space between the sensible heat exchanger and the intake port is divided by the dust collection filter into an upstream space and a downstream space in the flow direction of the first and second air. In the downstream space, a branching channel is formed that divides the intake air drawn in from the intake port into the first air flowing through the first path and the second air flowing through the second path. The air conditioner according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by the features described above.

11. The upstream space is provided with a water supply channel for supplying water to the first vaporization filter or the second vaporization filter. The air conditioner according to feature 10.

12. In the housing, a door portion that can be opened and closed is provided on the side where the first vaporization filter is installed. A suppression member is provided on the inner surface of the door portion to prevent air from entering the first flow path without passing through the first vaporization filter. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A tank provided on the outside of the aforementioned housing, A water supply channel that supplies water from the tank to the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter, The system includes a recovery channel for recovering water that has not vaporized by the first vaporization filter and the second vaporization filter into the tank. An air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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