Air conditioning system and its control method

Abstract

This provides an air conditioning system that can efficiently perform the regeneration mode of air conditioning devices. [Solution] An air conditioning system comprising: a flow path 10 through which air can flow; an air conditioning device 20 disposed within the flow path 10 and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing a target substance, the air conditioning device 20 having a base material that can be heated by the application of voltage and an adsorption part containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing a target substance; and a control unit 40 capable of controlling the flow rate of air flowing through the flow path 10 and the air conditioning device 20. The control unit 40 controls the ratio of the air flow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device 20 to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device 20 is in regeneration mode.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioning system and a method for controlling the same. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a growing demand for improved indoor environments in various buildings such as offices, schools, and homes, as well as in various vehicles such as automobiles. Specific demands include reducing indoor CO2 to suppress drowsiness, regulating indoor humidity, and removing harmful volatile components such as odor and allergy-inducing substances. Ventilation is an effective measure to meet these demands, but ventilation is a major factor in the loss of heater energy in winter, leading to a decrease in energy efficiency during that season. In particular, electric vehicles (BEVs: Battery Electric Vehicles) face the problem of significantly reduced driving range due to this energy loss.

[0003] As a method to solve the above problems, a cabin air purification system (air conditioning system) has been proposed, comprising: a honeycomb structure having an outer wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer wall that partition a plurality of cells forming a flow path extending from one end face to the other, wherein at least the partition walls are made of a material having PTC properties; a pair of electrodes consisting of a first electrode provided on one end face and a second electrode provided on the other end face; and a functional material (adsorbent) containing layer provided on the surface of the partition walls; an inlet pipe connecting the cabin and the inlet end face of the heater element; and an outlet pipe having a first path (first flow path) connecting the outlet end face of the heater element and the cabin, wherein the outlet pipe has a first path connecting the outlet end face of the heater element and the cabin and a second path (second flow path) connecting the outlet end face of the heater element and the outside of the vehicle, and a switching valve is provided that can switch the airflow through the outlet pipe between the first path and the second path (for example, Patent Document 1). This vehicle interior purification system can adsorb CO2 and other substances using a functional material-containing layer on the heater element, and the functional material-containing layer can be regenerated by heating the heater element.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the regeneration process of an air-conditioning device, although the desorption amount of the adsorption target substance increases when the heating amount of the air-conditioning device is large (the power supplied to the air-conditioning device is large), if the flow rate of the air flowing through the air-conditioning device is small, the desorbed adsorption target substance tends to stay, so the regeneration mode does not proceed efficiently. On the other hand, if the flow rate of the air flowing through the air-conditioning device is too large, the temperature of the air-conditioning device will decrease, so the desorption amount of the adsorption target substance will decrease.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an air-conditioning system capable of efficiently performing the regeneration mode of an air-conditioning device and a control method therefor.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] As a result of intensive research on an air-conditioning system including an air-conditioning device, the inventors have found that by controlling the ratio of the air flow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air-conditioning device, or the ratio of the maximum desorption amount [g / sec] of the adsorption target substance in the air-conditioning device to the air flow rate [m 3 / sec] within a predetermined range during the regeneration mode of the air-conditioning device, the above problems can be solved, and the present invention has been completed. That is, the present invention is exemplified as follows.

[0008] <1> A flow path through which air can flow, An air-conditioning device disposed in the flow path and capable of executing an adsorption mode for adsorbing an adsorption target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the adsorption target substance, the air-conditioning device having a base material portion that can be heated by applying a voltage, and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the adsorption target substance, a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air flowing through the flow path and the air-conditioning device and comprising The control unit controls the ratio of the flow rate of the air [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air-conditioning device to be 0.10 to 1.90 during the regeneration mode of the air-conditioning device. An air-conditioning system.

[0009] <2> The control unit controls the ratio of the flow rate of the air [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air-conditioning device to be 0.20 to 1.70 during the regeneration mode of the air-conditioning device. The air-conditioning system according to <1>.

[0010] <3> The control unit changes at least one of the power supplied to the air-conditioning device and the flow rate of the air during the regeneration mode of the air-conditioning device. The air-conditioning system according to <1> or <2>.

[0011] <4> A flow path through which air can flow, An air-conditioning device disposed in the flow path and capable of executing an adsorption mode for adsorbing an adsorption target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the adsorption target substance, the air-conditioning device having a base material portion that can be heated by applying a voltage, and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the adsorption target substance, a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air flowing through the flow path and the air-conditioning device and comprising The control unit controls the flow rate of the air so as to satisfy the following conditions during the regeneration mode of the air-conditioning device. An air-conditioning system. (1) When the temperature of the air is 120° C. or higher, the ratio of the maximum desorption amount [g / sec] of the adsorption target substance in the air-conditioning device to the flow rate of the air [m 3 / sec] is 195 (2) When the temperature of the air is 90°C or higher and less than 120°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 600 or less. (3) When the temperature of the air is 70°C or higher and less than 90°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 300 or less. (4) When the temperature of the air is 50°C or higher and less than 70°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 130 or less. (5) When the temperature of the air is less than 50°C, the flow rate of the air [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 60 or less.

[0012] <5> The air conditioning device is a honeycomb structure having an outer periphery wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer periphery wall, which divide and form a plurality of cells that serve as airflow channels extending from a first end face to a second end face. An adsorption layer containing the adsorbent is provided on the surface of the partition wall, and A pair of electrodes provided on the first and second end faces of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer peripheral wall parallel to the direction in which the cells of the honeycomb structure extend. Equipped with, <1> ~ <4> An air conditioning system described in any one of the following terms.

[0013] <6> The honeycomb structure is composed of a material in which at least the partition walls have PTC properties. <5> The air conditioning system described above.

[0014] <7> The flow path is branched downstream of the air conditioning device into a first flow path for bringing the air into the room and a second flow path for discharging the air outside the room, and further comprises a first valve capable of switching the airflow between the first flow path and the second flow path. <1> ~ <6> An air conditioning system described in any one of the following terms.

[0015] <8> The control unit is capable of controlling the first valve, The control unit switches the first valve so that the air flows through the first channel in the adsorption mode, and switches the first valve so that the air flows through the second channel in the regeneration mode, and heats the substrate. <7> The air conditioning system described above.

[0016] <9> The flow path is further provided with a fan for adjusting the flow rate of the air, The control unit adjusts the airflow rate by controlling the rotation speed of the ventilator. <1> ~ <8> An air conditioning system described in any one of the following terms.

[0017] <10> The substance to be adsorbed is water. <1> ~ <9> An air conditioning system described in any one of the following terms.

[0018] <11> A flow path through which air can circulate, An air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the target substance, comprising: a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage; and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the target substance, A control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air circulating through the aforementioned flow path and the air conditioning device. In an air conditioning system equipped with, A control method for an air conditioning system, wherein the control unit controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode.

[0019] <12> The control unit controls the ratio of the air flow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioner to be 0.20 to 1.70 during the reproduction mode of the air conditioner, according to the control method of the air conditioning system described in <11>.

[0020] <13> The control unit changes at least one of the power supplied to the air conditioner and the air flow rate during the reproduction mode of the air conditioner, according to the control method of the air conditioning system described in <11> or <12>.

[0021] <14> An air flow path through which air can flow, An air conditioner disposed in the flow path and capable of executing an adsorption mode for adsorbing an adsorption target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the adsorption target substance, the air conditioner having a base material part that can be heated by applying a voltage, and an adsorption part containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the adsorption target substance, A control unit capable of controlling the air flow rate flowing through the flow path and the air conditioner In an air conditioning system comprising: The control unit controls the air flow rate so as to satisfy the following conditions during the reproduction mode of the air conditioner, according to the control method of the air conditioning system. (1) When the temperature of the air is 120 °C or higher, the ratio of the maximum desorption amount [g / sec] of the adsorption target substance in the air conditioner to the air flow rate [m 3 / sec] is 1950 or less. (2) When the temperature of the air is 90 °C or higher and less than 120 °C, the ratio of the maximum desorption amount [g / sec] of the adsorption target substance in the air conditioner to the air flow rate [m 3 / sec] is 600 or less. (3) When the temperature of the air is 70 °C or higher and less than 90 °C, the ratio of the maximum desorption amount [g / sec] of the adsorption target substance in the air conditioner to the air flow rate [m 3 / sec] is 300 or less. (4) When the temperature of the air is 50 °C or higher and less than 70 °C, the air flow rate [m 3The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 130 or less. (5) When the temperature of the air is less than 50°C, the flow rate of the air [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 60 or less. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioning system and a control method thereof that can efficiently perform the regeneration mode of an air conditioning device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the overall configuration of an air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of another air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of another air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of another air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of another air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of another air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 7A] This is a schematic diagram of a cross-section parallel to the flow path direction of a typical air conditioning device used in an air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 7B] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of the air conditioning device along the line a-a'. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of a heat pump cycle. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] The air conditioning system of the present invention comprises: a flow path through which air can flow; an air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing a target substance, the air conditioning device having a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing a target substance; and a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of air flowing through the flow path and the air conditioning device, wherein the control unit controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device is in regeneration mode.

[0025] Furthermore, the air conditioning system of the present invention comprises: a flow path through which air can flow; an air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing a target substance, the air conditioning device having a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing a target substance; and a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of air flowing through the flow path and the air conditioning device, wherein the control unit controls the flow rate of air to satisfy the following conditions when the air conditioning device is in regeneration mode. (1) When the air temperature is 120°C or higher, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 1950 or less. (2) When the air temperature is between 90°C and 120°C, the air flow rate [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 600 or less. (3) When the air temperature is 70°C or higher but less than 90°C, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 300 or less. (4) When the air temperature is between 50°C and 70°C, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 130 or less. (5) When the air temperature is below 50°C, the air flow rate [m 3The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 60 or less.

[0026] Furthermore, the control method for the air conditioning system of the present invention comprises: a flow path through which air can flow; an air conditioning device disposed in the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing a target substance, the air conditioning device having a base material portion that can be heated by the application of voltage and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing a target substance; and a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of air flowing through the flow path and the air conditioning device, wherein the control unit controls the ratio of the flow rate of air [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device is in regeneration mode.

[0027] Furthermore, the control method for an air conditioning system of the present invention comprises: a flow path through which air can flow; an air conditioning device disposed in the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing a target substance, the air conditioning device having a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing a target substance; and a control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of air flowing through the flow path and the air conditioning device, wherein the control unit controls the flow rate of air to satisfy the following conditions when the air conditioning device is in regeneration mode. (1) When the air temperature is 120°C or higher, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 1950 or less. (2) When the air temperature is between 90°C and 120°C, the air flow rate [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 600 or less. (3) When the air temperature is 70°C or higher but less than 90°C, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 300 or less. (4) When the air temperature is between 50°C and 70°C, the air flow rate [m³ 3The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 130 or less. (5) When the air temperature is below 50°C, the air flow rate [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device is 60 or less.

[0028] The air conditioning system and control method of the present invention, by having the above-described configuration, can control the airflow rate to a level suitable for the regeneration mode, thereby enabling efficient operation of the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device. Therefore, the air conditioning system and control method of the present invention can reduce the power consumption required for the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device, and in particular, can increase the driving range when used in electric vehicles.

[0029] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and it should be understood that modifications, improvements, etc., to the following embodiments, based on the ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention, also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0030] (Embodiment 1) The air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention can be used in various buildings such as offices, schools, and residences, as well as in various vehicles such as automobiles. Among these, the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is particularly suitable for use in various vehicles such as automobiles. Vehicles are not particularly limited, but include automobiles and trains. Automobiles are not particularly limited, but include gasoline cars, diesel cars, gas-fueled cars using CNG (compressed natural gas) or LNG (liquefied natural gas), fuel cell vehicles, electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is particularly suitable for use in vehicles without internal combustion engines, such as electric vehicles and trains.

[0031] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall configuration of an air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention comprises a flow path 10, an air conditioning device 20, and a control unit 40. The flow path 10 allows indoor and / or outdoor air to circulate. Furthermore, downstream of the air conditioning device 20, the flow path 10 branches into a first flow path 11 that allows air to flow into the room (or the passenger compartment in the case of a vehicle) and a second flow path 12 that discharges air to the outside (or outside the vehicle in the case of a vehicle). A first valve 60 is located at the branching point, which can switch the airflow between the first flow path 11 and the second flow path 12.

[0032] The air conditioning device 20 is positioned within the flow path 10 and is capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing target substances and a regeneration mode for desorbing target substances. The adsorption mode and regeneration mode can be performed repeatedly. By performing the adsorption mode and regeneration mode, target substances to be adsorbed from the air can be efficiently removed and discharged. In this specification, the adsorption mode of the air conditioning device 20 means adsorbing adsorbable substances in the air by circulating air through the air conditioning device 20. The regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20 means desorbing the adsorbed adsorbable substances by heating the air conditioning device 20 while circulating air through it. In the adsorption mode, air containing the adsorbable substances flows into the room through the first flow path 11. In the regeneration mode, air from which the adsorbable substances have been desorbed is discharged outside the room through the second flow path 12.

[0033] The control unit 40 can control the flow rate of air circulating through the flow path 10 and the air conditioning device 20. A fan 50 for adjusting the airflow rate is provided within the flow path 10, and the control unit 40 can adjust the airflow rate by controlling the rotation speed of the fan 50. The control unit 40 and the fan 50 are electrically connected. The control unit 40 can determine whether or not to heat the air conditioning device 20 by controlling a power supply (not shown) electrically connected to the air conditioning device 20. The control unit 40 is also connected to the first valve 60 and can control the first valve 60. The control unit 40 switches the first valve 60 so that air flows through the first channel 11 in the adsorption mode, and switches the first valve 60 so that air flows through the second channel 12 in the regeneration mode, thereby heating the base material of the air conditioning device 20. With this configuration, the adsorption mode and regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20 can be easily realized.

[0034] In an air conditioning system having the structure described above, the control unit 40 controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device 20 to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device 20 is in regeneration mode. By controlling it in this way, the amount of heating and the airflow rate of the air conditioning device 20 can be controlled to be suitable for the regeneration mode, so that the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20 can be performed efficiently. From the viewpoint of stably ensuring this effect, the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device 20 to 0.20 to 1.70 is preferable. The average power supplied to the air conditioning device 20 during regeneration mode is not particularly limited as long as the above ratio is satisfied, but is typically 100 to 550 W. Also, the airflow rate of the air conditioning device 20 during regeneration mode is not particularly limited as long as the above ratio is satisfied, but is typically 30 to 390 L / min.

[0035] The control unit 40 can change at least one of the power supplied to the air conditioning device 20 and the airflow rate when the air conditioning device 20 is in regeneration mode. Specifically, the control unit 40 may change the power supplied to the air conditioning device 20, change the airflow rate supplied to the air conditioning device 20, or change both the power and airflow rate supplied to the air conditioning device 20 when the air conditioning device 20 is in regeneration mode. By changing at least one of the power supplied to the air conditioning device 20 and the airflow rate in this way, it becomes easier to control the ratio of the airflow rate to the average power supplied to the air conditioning device 20 within a predetermined range, thereby enabling efficient regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20.

[0036] The air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention may further include an HVAC unit capable of performing heating and cooling by heating and cooling indoor and / or outdoor air. By including an HVAC unit, indoor heating and cooling can be easily achieved. Figures 2 to 6 show a schematic configuration diagram of the air conditioning system, including the HVAC unit. The air conditioning systems shown in Figures 2 and 3 represent configurations in which the air conditioning device 20 is located inside the HVAC unit 30. The air conditioning systems shown in Figures 4 to 6 represent configurations in which the air conditioning device 20 is located outside the HVAC unit 30, that is, upstream of the HVAC unit 30. In this specification, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the direction of airflow.

[0037] The HVAC unit 30 can perform heating operation mode and cooling operation mode. In this specification, the heating operation mode of the HVAC unit 30 means heating the air (indoor and / or outdoor air) by the condenser 32 of the HVAC unit 30. Therefore, it is preferable that the HVAC unit 30 includes a condenser 32, and that the condenser 32 is connected to a heat pump cycle. Furthermore, the cooling operation of the HVAC unit 30 means cooling the air by the evaporator 31 of the HVAC unit 30. Therefore, it is preferable that the HVAC unit 30 includes an evaporator 31, and that the evaporator 31 is connected to a heat pump cycle.

[0038] The following provides a detailed explanation of each of the above components and other components.

[0039] (1. Flow channel 10) The airflow path 10 is an area through which air can flow and consists of ducts 15 (piping) and the housing of the HVAC unit 30 (if an HVAC unit 30 is provided). For example, in the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 2 and 3, the airflow path 10 consists of the housing of the HVAC unit 30. Also, the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 4 to 6 consist of the housing of the HVAC unit 30 and the ducts 15. The shape and size of the flow path 10 are not particularly limited and can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the type of HVAC unit 30 and the duct 15 connected to it.

[0040] The flow path 10 is preferably further provided with a first valve 60 that can switch the airflow between the first flow path 11 and the second flow path 12 downstream of the air conditioning device 20, which allows air to flow into the room and the air to flow out to the outside. This configuration makes it easy to implement the adsorption mode and regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20.

[0041] Preferably, the flow path 10 branches upstream of the evaporator 31 into a third flow path 13 where the air conditioning device 20 is located and a fourth flow path 14 where the air conditioning device 20 is not located. With this configuration, even when the air conditioning device 20 is undergoing regeneration processing, air can always be circulated within the HVAC unit 30 to perform heating and cooling.

[0042] In the air conditioning system shown in Figures 2, 4, and 6, it is preferable to further provide a ventilator 50 in the third flow path 13 upstream of the air conditioning device 20. This configuration allows for selective air circulation within the third flow path 13. Furthermore, the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 2 and 4 preferably include an additional ventilator 50 in the fourth flow path 14. This configuration allows for selective air circulation within the fourth flow path 14. In the air conditioning system shown in Figure 6, by activating the ventilator 50 of the HVAC unit 30, air can be circulated either within the fourth flow path 14 or in both the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14.

[0043] In the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 3 and 5, it is preferable to further provide a second valve 61 upstream of the air conditioning device 20 that can switch the airflow between the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14. By providing the second valve 61, air can be selectively circulated to either the third flow path 13 or the fourth flow path 14. In this case, as shown in Figures 3 and 5, a ventilator 50 may be provided upstream of the second valve 61.

[0044] (2. Air conditioning device 20) The air conditioning device 20 is placed within the flow path 10. The air conditioning device 20 is capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing a target substance. The air conditioning device 20 has a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage, and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent that can adsorb and desorb substances to be adsorbed. With an air conditioning device 20 having such a structure, the adsorption mode and regeneration mode can be easily realized. Furthermore, the number of air conditioning devices 20 arranged within the flow path 10 may be one or multiple. If multiple air conditioning devices 20 are provided, they may be arranged in parallel or in series with respect to the airflow circulating within the flow path 10.

[0045] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of a cross-section parallel to the flow direction of a typical air conditioning device used in an air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the cross-section along line a-a' in the air conditioning device of Figure 7A. The air conditioning device 20 shown in Figures 7A and 7B comprises a honeycomb structure 21 having an outer peripheral wall 22 and partition walls 25 disposed inside the outer peripheral wall 22 and forming a plurality of cells 24 that serve as airflow channels extending from a first end face 23a to a second end face 23b; an adsorption layer 26 containing an adsorbent provided on the surface of the partition walls 25; and a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b provided on the first end face 23a and the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. Although not shown, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b may be provided on the outer peripheral wall 22 parallel to the direction in which the cells 24 of the honeycomb structure 21 extend. Terminals 28 can also be connected to the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b. The pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be electrically connected to the control unit 40 via a power supply (not shown). Therefore, the air conditioning device 20 can adjust the voltage applied to the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b according to instructions from the control unit 40. The power supply is not particularly limited and can be a battery or the like.

[0046] (2-1. Honeycomb structure 21) The shape of the honeycomb structure 21 is not particularly limited. For example, the outer shape of the cross-section of the honeycomb structure 21 perpendicular to the flow direction (the direction in which the cells 24 extend) can be a polygon such as a quadrilateral (rectangle, square), pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon, or a circle, oval (egg, ellipse, oblong, rounded rectangle, etc.). The end faces (first end face 23a and second end face 23b) have the same shape as the cross-section. Furthermore, if the cross-section and end faces are polygonal, the corners may be chamfered.

[0047] The shape of the cell 24 is not particularly limited, but in a cross-section perpendicular to the flow direction of the honeycomb structure 21, it can be a polygon such as a square (rectangle, square), pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon, or a circle or oval shape. These shapes may be single or a combination of two or more. Among these shapes, square or hexagonal is preferred. By providing cells 24 of such shape, the pressure loss when air flows can be reduced.

[0048] The honeycomb structure 21 may be a honeycomb joint having a plurality of honeycomb segments and a joining layer that joins the outer periphery sides of the plurality of honeycomb segments. By using a honeycomb joint, it is possible to increase the total cross-sectional area of ​​the cells 24, which are important for securing airflow (flow velocity), while suppressing the occurrence of cracks. The bonding layer can be formed using a bonding material. The bonding material is not particularly limited, but a paste made by adding a solvent such as water to ceramic raw materials can be used. The bonding material may contain a material having PTC properties, or it may contain the same material as the outer periphery wall 22 and the partition wall 25. In addition to its role in bonding the honeycomb segments together, the bonding material can also be used as an outer periphery coating material after the honeycomb segments have been bonded.

[0049] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, reducing pressure loss when air passes through the cells 24, ensuring the amount of adsorbent carried, and ensuring the contact area with the air flowing inside the cells 24, it is desirable to suitably combine the thickness of the partition wall 25, the cell density, and the cell pitch (or the opening ratio of the cells 24). In this specification, cell density is a value obtained by dividing the number of cells by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 23a or second end face 23b) of the honeycomb structure 21 (the total area of ​​the partition walls 25 and cells 24 excluding the outer peripheral wall 22). In this specification, cell pitch refers to a value obtained by the following calculation. First, the area per cell is calculated by dividing the area of ​​one end face of the honeycomb structure 21 (first end face 23a or second end face 23b) (the total area of ​​the partition wall 25 and cells 24 excluding the outer perimeter wall 22) by the number of cells. Next, the square root of the area per cell is calculated and this is defined as the cell pitch. In this specification, the aperture ratio of cell 24 is the value obtained by dividing the total area of ​​cells 24 partitioned by partition walls 25 in a cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the honeycomb structure 21 by the area of ​​one end face (first end face 23a or second end face 23b) (the total area of ​​partition walls 25 and cells 24 excluding the outer peripheral wall 22). Note that the pair of electrodes 27a, 27b and the adsorption layer 26 are not considered when calculating the aperture ratio of cell 24.

[0050] In an advantageous configuration for supporting a sufficient amount of functional material, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.300 mm or less, and the cell density is 100 cells / cm³. 2 The following conditions apply, and the cell pitch is 1.0 mm or more. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.200 mm or less, and the cell density is 70 cells / cm³. 2 The following conditions apply, and the cell pitch is 1.2 mm or more. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.130 mm or less, and the cell density is 65 cells / cm³. 2 The following conditions apply, and the cell pitch is 1.3 mm or more.

[0051] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21 and keeping electrical resistance low, the lower limit of the thickness of the partition wall 25 is preferably 0.010 mm or more, more preferably 0.020 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.030 mm or more. From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, keeping electrical resistance low, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and desorption, the lower limit of the cell density is 30 cells / cm². 2 Preferably, it is 35 cells / cm 2 It is more preferable that the rate is 40 cells / cm² or higher. 2 It is even more preferable that the above conditions are met. From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, keeping electrical resistance low, and increasing the surface area to promote reaction, adsorption, and desorption, the upper limit of the cell pitch is preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.8 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.6 mm or less.

[0052] In an advantageous configuration that balances pressure loss reduction with strength maintenance, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.08 to 0.36 mm, and the cell density is 2.54 to 140 cells / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of cell 24 is 0.70 or higher. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.09 to 0.35 mm, and the cell density is 15 to 100 cells / cm³. 2 The opening ratio of cell 24 is 0.80 or higher. In a more preferred embodiment, the thickness of the partition wall 25 is 0.14 to 0.30 mm, and the cell density is 20 to 90 cells / cm³. 2 The aperture ratio of cell 24 is 0.85 or higher.

[0053] From the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the honeycomb structure 21, the upper limit of the opening ratio of the cells 24 is preferably 0.94 or less, more preferably 0.92 or less, and even more preferably 0.90 or less.

[0054] The thickness of the outer periphery wall 22 is not particularly limited, but is preferably determined based on the following considerations. First, from the viewpoint of reinforcing the honeycomb structure 21, the thickness of the outer periphery wall 22 is preferably 0.05 mm or more, more preferably 0.06 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.08 mm or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of increasing electrical resistance to suppress initial current and reducing pressure loss when air flows, the thickness of the outer periphery wall 22 is preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.5 mm or less, even more preferably 0.4 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.3 mm or less. In this specification, the thickness of the outer peripheral wall 22 refers to the length in the direction normal to the side surface, from the boundary between the outer peripheral wall 22 and the outermost cell 24 or partition wall 25 to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 21, in a cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0055] The length of the honeycomb structure 21 in the flow direction and the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the flow direction can be adjusted to the required size of the air conditioning device 20 and are not particularly limited. For example, when used in a compact air conditioning device 20 that ensures a predetermined function, the honeycomb structure 21 may have a length of 2 to 20 mm in the flow direction and a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the flow direction of 10 cm². 2 The above can be applied. The upper limit of the cross-sectional area of ​​the honeycomb structure 21 perpendicular to the flow direction is not particularly limited, but for example, 300 cm². 2 The following applies:

[0056] The partition walls 25 constituting the honeycomb structure 21 are made of a material capable of generating heat when an electric current is passed through them, and more preferably, they are made of a material having PTC properties. If necessary, the outer peripheral wall 22 may also be made of a material having PTC properties similar to the partition walls 25. With this configuration, the adsorption layer 26 can be directly heated by heat transfer from the heat-generating partition walls 25 (and optionally the outer peripheral wall 22). Furthermore, materials having PTC properties have the characteristic that when the temperature rises and exceeds the Curie point, the resistance value increases rapidly and it becomes difficult for electricity to flow. Therefore, when the partition walls 25 (and optionally the outer peripheral wall 22) become hot, the current flowing through them is limited, so excessive heat generation in the honeycomb structure 21 is suppressed. Consequently, it is also possible to suppress thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 26 caused by excessive heat generation.

[0057] From the viewpoint of obtaining appropriate heat generation, the lower limit of the volume resistivity of a PTC-type material at 25°C is preferably 0.5 Ω·cm or more, more preferably 1 Ω·cm or more, and even more preferably 5 Ω·cm or more. From the viewpoint of generating heat with a low drive voltage, the upper limit of the volume resistivity of a PTC-type material at 25°C is preferably 30 Ω·cm or less, more preferably 18 Ω·cm or less, and even more preferably 16 Ω·cm or less. In this specification, the volume resistivity of a PTC-type material at 25°C is measured in accordance with JIS K6271:2008.

[0058] From the viewpoint of being electrically conductive and having PTC characteristics, the outer periphery wall 22 and the partition wall 25 are preferably made of a material mainly composed of barium titanate (BaTiO3). Furthermore, it is more preferable that this material is a ceramic made of a material mainly composed of barium titanate (BaTiO3)-based crystalline particles in which a portion of Ba is replaced with rare earth elements. In this specification, "main component" means a component whose proportion in the total component exceeds 50% by mass. The content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles can be determined by fluorescent X-ray analysis. Other crystalline particles can also be measured in the same manner.

[0059] The compositional formula for BaTiO3-based crystal grains in which some of the Ba is replaced by rare earth elements is (Ba 1-x A x It can be represented as TiO3. In the empirical formula, A represents one or more rare earth elements, and 0.0001 ≤ x ≤ 0.010. A is not particularly limited as long as it is a rare earth element, but is preferably one or more selected from the group consisting of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, Y, and Yb, and is more preferably La. x is preferably 0.001 or more, more preferably 0.0015 or more, from the viewpoint of suppressing excessively high electrical resistance at room temperature. On the other hand, x is preferably 0.009 or less, from the viewpoint of suppressing excessively high electrical resistance at room temperature due to insufficient sintering. The content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles in ceramics, in which a portion of Ba is substituted with rare earth elements, is not particularly limited as long as it constitutes the main component, but is preferably 90% by mass or more, more preferably 92% by mass or more, and even more preferably 94% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of BaTiO3-based crystalline particles is not particularly limited, but is generally 99% by mass, preferably 98% by mass.

[0060] From the viewpoint of reducing environmental impact, it is desirable that the materials used for the outer perimeter wall 22 and the partition wall 25 be substantially lead-free (Pb). Specifically, the Pb content of the outer perimeter wall 22 and the partition wall 25 is preferably 0.01% by mass or less, more preferably 0.001% by mass or less, and even more preferably 0% by mass. The low Pb content allows, for example, heated air to be safely directed at living organisms such as humans by contacting the heat-generating partition wall 25. In addition, the Pb content of the outer perimeter wall 22 and the partition wall 25, when converted to PbO, is preferably less than 0.03% by mass, more preferably less than 0.01% by mass, and even more preferably 0% by mass. The lead content can be determined by ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry).

[0061] Preferably, the Curie point of the materials constituting the outer perimeter wall 22 and the partition wall 25 is within the temperature range where the resistance value is more than twice the resistance value at room temperature (25°C). If the Curie point is within such a temperature range, the current flowing through them is limited when the air conditioning device 20 becomes hot, so that excessive heat generation of the air conditioning device 20 is efficiently suppressed. Therefore, thermal degradation of the adsorption layer 26 caused by excessive heat generation can be suppressed. The lower limit of the Curie point of the materials constituting the outer peripheral wall 22 and the partition wall 25 is preferably 80°C or higher, more preferably 100°C or higher, even more preferably 110°C or higher, and particularly preferably 125°C or higher, from the viewpoint of efficiently heating the adsorption layer 26. The upper limit of the Curie point is preferably 200°C or lower, more preferably 190°C or lower, even more preferably 180°C or lower, and particularly preferably 150°C or lower, from the viewpoint of safety as a component placed in or near the vehicle compartment.

[0062] The Curie points of the materials constituting the outer perimeter wall 22 and the partition wall 25 can be adjusted by the type and amount of sifter added. For example, the Curie point of barium titanate (BaTiO3) is approximately 120°C, but by substituting some of the Ba and Ti with one or more of Sr, Sn, and Zr, the Curie point can be shifted to a lower temperature.

[0063] In this specification, the Curie point is measured by the following method: The sample is mounted in a sample holder for measurement and placed in a measuring chamber (e.g., MINI-SUBZERO MC-810P, manufactured by ESPEC Corporation). The change in the electrical resistance of the sample with respect to temperature changes as the temperature is raised from 10°C is measured using a DC resistance meter (e.g., Multimeter 3478A, manufactured by Hewlett-Packard Japan, G.K.). The Curie point is defined as the temperature at which the resistance value becomes twice the resistance value at room temperature (25°C) as shown in the electrical resistance-temperature plot obtained from the measurement.

[0064] (2-2.Adsorption layer 26) The adsorption layer 26 is a layer containing an adsorbent. The adsorption layer 26 can be provided on the surface of the partition wall 25 (or, in the case of the outermost cell 24, the partition wall 25 and outer wall 22 that partition the outermost cell 24). By providing the adsorption layer 26 in this way, it becomes easier to adsorb the target substance during the adsorption mode, and it becomes easier to heat the adsorption layer 26 during the regeneration mode, thus making it easier to detach the target substance from the adsorption layer 26.

[0065] The adsorption layer 26 is capable of adsorbing and desorbing substances to be adsorbed. The substances to be adsorbed are not particularly limited, but are preferably water, carbon dioxide, and volatile components, and more preferably water. Therefore, for example, the adsorption layer 26 can contain one or more adsorbents capable of adsorbing these components. Furthermore, if one adsorbent is capable of adsorbing all of water, carbon dioxide, and volatile components, then by including only that adsorbent, water, carbon dioxide, and volatile components can be adsorbed. By including such an adsorbent, an air purification effect can be obtained.

[0066] Preferably, the adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer 26 has the function of adsorbing the target substance at -20 to 40°C and desorbing it at a high temperature of 60°C or higher. Adsorbents are not particularly limited, but include aluminosilicates, silica gel, silica, graphene oxide, polymer adsorbents, polystyrene sulfonic acid, zeolites, activated carbon, alumina, low-crystalline clay, amorphous aluminum silicate composites, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0067] As the aluminosilicate, it is preferable to use AFI-type, CHA-type, or BEA-type zeolites; porous clay minerals such as allophane and imogolite. Furthermore, it is preferable that the aluminosilicate is amorphous.

[0068] It is preferable to use type A silica gel as the silica gel. As a polymer adsorbent, one having polyacrylic acid-based polymer chains is preferred. For example, sodium polyacrylate can be used as a polymer adsorbent. Metal-organic structures are crystalline hybrid materials containing metal ions and organic molecules (organic ligands). Preferably, the metal ions are hydrophilic (e.g., aluminum ions).

[0069] Volatile components contained in indoor air include, for example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odor components other than VOCs. Specific examples of volatile components include ammonia, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, nonenal, formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, paradichlorobenzene, ethylbenzene, styrene, chlorpyrifos, di-n-butyl phthalate, tetradecane, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, diazinon, acetaldehyde, and N-methylcarbamate-2-(1-methylpropyl)phenyl.

[0070] The adsorption layer 26 may contain a catalyst. By including a catalyst, oxidation-reduction reactions can be promoted to purify carbon dioxide and / or volatile components. Examples of catalysts with such functions include metal catalysts such as Pt, Pd, and Ag, and oxide catalysts such as CeO2 and ZrO2. The catalyst may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. Furthermore, the catalyst can be used in combination with the functional materials described above.

[0071] The thickness of the adsorption layer 26 can be determined according to the size of the cell 24 and is not particularly limited. For example, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient contact with air, the thickness of the adsorption layer 26 is preferably 20 μm or more, more preferably 25 μm or more, and even more preferably 30 μm or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of suppressing the peeling of the adsorption layer 26 from the partition wall 25 and the outer peripheral wall 22, the thickness of the adsorption layer 26 is preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 380 μm or less, and even more preferably 350 μm or less.

[0072] The thickness of the adsorption layer 26 is measured using the following procedure. An arbitrary cross section parallel to the flow direction of the honeycomb structure 21 is cut out, and a cross-sectional image at approximately 50x magnification is obtained using a scanning electron microscope or similar device. This cross section is also taken so that it passes through the centroid position of a cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the honeycomb structure 21. For each adsorption layer 26 visible in the cross-sectional image, the thickness is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area by the length of the cell 24 in the flow direction. This calculation is performed for all adsorption layers 26 visible in the cross-sectional image, and the overall average value is taken as the thickness of the adsorption layer 26.

[0073] From the viewpoint of performing the desired function within the air conditioning device 20, the amount of the adsorption layer 26 is preferably 50 to 500 g / L, more preferably 100 to 400 g / L, and even more preferably 150 to 350 g / L, relative to the volume of the honeycomb structure 21. The volume of the honeycomb structure 21 is determined by the external dimensions of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0074] In the regeneration mode of the adsorption layer 26, it is preferable to heat the adsorption layer 26 to a temperature above the desorption temperature, depending on the type of adsorbent, in order to promote the desorption of the adsorbent target substance captured in the adsorption layer 26. For example, it is preferable to heat the adsorption layer 26 to 70-150°C, more preferably to 80-140°C, and even more preferably to 90-130°C.

[0075] (2-3. A pair of electrodes 27a, 27b) The positions of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are not particularly limited, but as shown in Figure 7A, they can be provided on the first end face 23a and the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b may be provided on the outer peripheral wall 22 of the honeycomb structure 21 that is parallel to the direction in which the cells 24 extend. By applying a voltage between the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, it is possible to generate heat in the honeycomb structure 21 by Joule heating.

[0076] The pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are not particularly limited, but for example, a metal or alloy containing at least one selected from Cu, Ag, Al, Ni, and Si can be used. Alternatively, an ohmic electrode capable of ohmic contact with the outer peripheral wall 22 and / or partition wall 25 having PTC characteristics can be used. For example, an ohmic electrode can be used that contains at least one selected from Al, Au, Ag, and In as a base metal and at least one selected from Ni, Si, Zn, Ge, Sn, Se, and Te for n-type semiconductors as a dopant. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure of two or more layers. If the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b have a multilayer structure of two or more layers, the material of each layer may be the same type or different types.

[0077] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be appropriately set depending on the method of forming the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b. Methods for forming the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b include metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolytic deposition, and chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be formed by applying electrode paste and then baking it, or by thermal spraying. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b may be formed by joining metal plates or alloy plates.

[0078] The thickness of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b is preferably about 5 to 30 μm for electrode paste baking, about 100 to 1000 nm for dry plating such as sputtering and vapor deposition, about 10 to 100 μm for thermal spraying, and about 5 to 30 μm for wet plating such as electroplating and chemical deposition. Furthermore, when joining metal plates or alloy plates, it is preferable that their thickness be about 5 to 100 μm.

[0079] (2-4. Terminal 28) Terminal 28 is connected to a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b and is provided on at least a portion of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b. Providing terminal 28 facilitates connection to an external power supply. Terminal 28 is connected to a wire connected to the external power supply.

[0080] The material of terminal 28 is not particularly limited, but for example, it can be a metal. As the metal, elemental metals and alloys can be used, but from the viewpoint of corrosion resistance, electrical resistivity and coefficient of linear expansion, it is preferable to use an alloy containing at least one selected from the group consisting of Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Al, and Ti, and stainless steel, Fe-Ni alloy, and phosphor bronze are more preferable.

[0081] The size and shape of the terminal 28 are not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Figure 7A, the terminal 28 can be provided over the entire length of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the outer peripheral wall 22. Alternatively, the terminal 28 may be provided on a portion of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the outer peripheral wall 22, or it may be provided so as to extend outward from the outer edge of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the outer peripheral wall 22. Furthermore, the terminal 28 may be provided on a portion of the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b on the partition wall 25, or it may be provided so as to block a portion of the cell 24. Furthermore, the thickness of the terminal 28 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.01 to 10 mm, typically 0.05 to 5 mm.

[0082] The method of connecting terminal 28 to the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b is not particularly limited as long as they are electrically connected, and can be done by means of diffusion bonding, a mechanical pressurizing mechanism, welding, etc.

[0083] (2-5. Method for manufacturing the air conditioning device 20) The method for manufacturing the air conditioning device 20 is not particularly limited and can be carried out in accordance with known methods. The method for manufacturing the air conditioning device 20 will be described below as an example. The manufacturing method for the honeycomb structure 21 constituting the air conditioning device 20 includes a molding step and a firing step. In the molding process, a clay mold containing ceramic raw materials including BaCO3 powder, TiO2 powder, and rare earth nitrate or hydroxide powder is molded to produce a honeycomb molded body with a relative density of 60% or more. Ceramic raw materials can be obtained by dry-mixing each powder to achieve the desired composition. The clay can be obtained by adding a dispersion medium, binder, plasticizer, and dispersant to ceramic raw materials and kneading them together. The clay may also contain additives such as sifters, metal oxides, property improvers, and conductive powders as needed. The amount of components other than ceramic raw materials is not particularly limited, as long as it is such that the relative density of the honeycomb molded body is 60% or more.

[0084] Here, in this specification, "relative density of the honeycomb molded body" means the ratio of the density of the honeycomb molded body to the true density of the entire ceramic raw material. Specifically, it can be calculated by the following formula. Relative density (%) of honeycomb molded material = Density (g / cm³) of honeycomb molded material 3 ) / True density of the entire ceramic raw material (g / cm³) 3 ) × 100 The density of a honeycomb molded body can be measured by the Archimedes method using pure water as the medium. The true density of the entire ceramic material is calculated by adding the mass of each material (g) and then adding the actual volume of each material (cm³). 3 It can be found by dividing by ).

[0085] Examples of dispersion media include water, or a mixed solvent of water and an organic solvent such as alcohol, but water is particularly suitable.

[0086] Examples of binders include organic binders such as methylcellulose, hydroxypropoxylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, and polyvinyl alcohol. In particular, the combined use of methylcellulose and hydroxypropoxylcellulose is preferred. The binder may be used alone or in combination of two or more types, but it is preferable that it does not contain alkali metal elements.

[0087] Examples of plasticizers include polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, polycarboxylic acid polymers, and alkyl phosphate esters.

[0088] Dispersants that can be used include surfactants such as polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, ethylene glycol, dextrin, fatty acid soaps, and polyalcohols. Dispersants may be used individually or in combination of two or more types.

[0089] Honeycomb molded bodies can be manufactured by extruding clay. During extrusion molding, a die with the desired overall shape, cell shape, partition thickness, and cell density can be used.

[0090] The relative density of the honeycomb molded body obtained by extrusion molding is 60% or more, preferably 65% ​​or more. By controlling the relative density of the honeycomb molded body within this range, it is possible to densify the honeycomb molded body and reduce its electrical resistance at room temperature. The upper limit of the relative density of the honeycomb molded body is not particularly limited, but is generally 80%, preferably 75%.

[0091] The honeycomb molded body can be dried before the firing process. The drying method is not particularly limited, but conventional known drying methods such as hot air drying, microwave drying, dielectric drying, reduced pressure drying, vacuum drying, and freeze drying can be used. Among these, a drying method combining hot air drying with microwave drying or dielectric drying is preferred because it can dry the entire molded body quickly and uniformly.

[0092] The firing process includes maintaining the temperature at 1150-1250°C, then increasing the temperature to a maximum of 1360-1430°C at a heating rate of 20-600°C / hour, and maintaining the temperature for 0.5-10 hours. By holding the honeycomb molded body at a maximum temperature of 1360 to 1430°C for 0.5 to 10 hours, a honeycomb structure 21 mainly composed of BaTiO3-based crystalline grains in which some of the Ba is replaced by rare earth elements can be obtained. Furthermore, by maintaining the temperature at 1150-1250°C, the Ba2TiO4 crystal particles generated during the firing process are more easily removed, thereby densifying the honeycomb structure 21. Furthermore, by setting the heating rate from 1150-1250°C to the maximum temperature of 1360-1430°C to 20-600°C / hour, 1.0-10.0 mass% of Ba6Ti 17 O 40 Crystal particles can be generated in the honeycomb structure 21.

[0093] The holding time at 1150-1250°C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.5-10 hours. This holding time makes it easier to stably remove the Ba2TiO4 crystal grains generated during the firing process.

[0094] The firing process preferably includes holding the temperature at 900-950°C for 0.5-5 hours during the heating phase. Holding the temperature at 900-950°C for 0.5-5 hours allows BaCO3 to decompose efficiently, making it easier to obtain a honeycomb structure 21 having a predetermined composition.

[0095] Furthermore, a degreasing process may be performed before the firing process to remove the binder. The atmosphere during the degreasing process is preferably atmospheric air to completely decompose the organic components. Furthermore, the atmosphere during the firing process is preferably an atmospheric environment, from the viewpoint of controlling electrical properties and reducing manufacturing costs. The furnace used in the firing and degreasing processes is not particularly limited, but electric furnaces, gas furnaces, etc., can be used.

[0096] A pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are formed on the honeycomb structure 21 obtained in this manner. The pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be formed by metal deposition methods such as sputtering, vapor deposition, electrolysis, or chemical deposition. Alternatively, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can be formed by applying electrode paste and then baking it. Furthermore, the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b can also be formed by thermal spraying. The pair of electrodes 27a and 27b may consist of a single layer, or it may consist of multiple electrode layers with different compositions. The following describes typical methods for forming the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b.

[0097] First, an electrode slurry containing electrode material, an organic binder, and a dispersion medium is prepared and applied to the first end face 23a or the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, texanol, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether), or a mixture thereof. Excess slurry around the outer circumference of the honeycomb structure 21 is removed by blowing and wiping. Then, a pair of electrodes 27a, 27b can be formed on the first end face 23a or the second end face 23b of the honeycomb structure 21 by drying the slurry. Drying can be carried out while heating the honeycomb structure 21 to a temperature of, for example, 120 to 600°C. The series of steps—coating, slurry removal, and drying—may be performed only once, but by repeating them multiple times, a pair of electrodes 27a and 27b of the desired thickness can be provided.

[0098] Next, the terminals 28 are placed at predetermined positions on the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b, and the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b are connected to the terminals 28. The method described above can be used to connect the pair of electrodes 27a and 27b to the terminals 28. Note that the arrangement of terminals 28 may be performed after the formation of the adsorption layer 26 described below.

[0099] Next, an adsorption layer 26 is formed on the surface of the honeycomb structure 21, such as the partition walls 25. The method for forming the adsorption layer 26 is not particularly limited, but for example, it can be formed by the following steps: The honeycomb structure 21 is immersed in a slurry containing an adsorbent, a binder, and a dispersion medium for a predetermined time, and excess slurry from the end faces and outer circumference of the honeycomb structure 21 is removed by blowing and wiping. The binder may be an organic binder, an inorganic binder, or a combination thereof. The dispersion medium can be water, an organic solvent (e.g., toluene, xylene, ethanol, n-butanol, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, terpineol, dihydroterpineol, texanol, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether) or a mixture thereof. After that, the adsorption layer 26 can be formed on the surface of the partition wall 25 or the like by drying the slurry. Drying can be carried out, for example, by heating the honeycomb structure 21 to a temperature of about 120 to 600°C. The series of steps—immersion, slurry removal, and drying—may be performed only once, but by repeating them multiple times, an adsorption layer 26 of the desired thickness can be formed on the surface of a partition wall 25 or the like.

[0100] (2-6. Other air conditioning devices 20) The air conditioning device 20 comprises an air passage and a heating medium passage adjacent to the air passage, and an adsorption section may be provided in the air passage. An example of such an air conditioning device 20 is one in which an adsorption layer 26 is formed on the surface of the fins of a plate fin type heat exchanger or an allo-fin type heat exchanger, in which a plurality of fins are provided on a pipe. In the air conditioning device 20 having the structure described above, air flows between the fins and a heating medium flows through the pipes. As the fins are heated by the flow of the heating medium, the adsorption layer 26 provided on the surface of the fins can be heated. An air conditioning device 20 having the structure described above can be manufactured by using a commercially available plate fin type heat exchanger or an elo fin type heat exchanger and forming an adsorption layer 26 on the surface of the fins. The method for forming the adsorption layer 26 can be the method described above.

[0101] The air conditioning device 20 may also include a honeycomb structure 21 having an outer periphery wall 22 and a partition wall 25 disposed inside the outer periphery wall 22, which divides a plurality of cells 24 that form air passages extending from a first end face 23a to a second end face 23b; an adsorption layer 26 containing an adsorbent provided on the surface of the partition wall 25; and a heater provided upstream of the honeycomb structure 21. Note that the structure of this air conditioning device 20 corresponds to the structure in Figure 7A with the pair of electrodes 27a, 27b and terminal 28 removed. In the air conditioning device 20 having the heating structure described above, the adsorption layer 26 provided on the surface of the partition wall 25 can be heated by circulating air heated by the heater through the cells 24 of the honeycomb structure 21.

[0102] Since the air conditioning device 20 having the heating structure described above does not require the honeycomb structure 21 itself to generate heat when electricity is passed through it, it can be formed from various materials such as metals and ceramics. However, the honeycomb structure 21 may be made of a material that can generate heat when electricity is passed through it. Furthermore, an air conditioning device 20 having the heating structure described above can be manufactured in accordance with the method described above.

[0103] (3. HVAC Unit 30) The HVAC unit 30 may include an evaporator 31 to cool and dehumidify the air circulating through the HVAC unit 30. Furthermore, the HVAC unit 30 may include a capacitor 32 for heating the air flowing through the HVAC unit 30. The location of the capacitor 32 is not particularly limited, but for example, it can be placed in the flow path 10 downstream of the evaporator 31.

[0104] The HVAC unit 30 includes a defroster opening 33a, a foot opening 33b, and a face opening 33c, which are open toward the passenger compartment, downstream of the evaporator 31 and condenser 32. It also includes a defroster door 34a for adjusting the amount of air blown out from the defroster opening 33a, a foot door 34b for adjusting the amount of air blown out from the foot opening 33b, and a face door 34c for adjusting the amount of air blown out from the face opening 33c.

[0105] In the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6, the HVAC unit 30 may include a ventilator 50 (blower). Specifically, in the air conditioning system shown in Figure 2, the HVAC unit 30 may include a ventilator 50 in both the third flow path 13 where the air conditioning device 20 is located and the fourth flow path 14 where the air conditioning device 20 is not located. In the air conditioning system shown in Figure 3, the HVAC unit 30 may include a ventilator 50 in the flow path 10 upstream of the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14. In the air conditioning system shown in Figure 6, the HVAC unit 30 may include a ventilator 50 in the flow path 10 upstream of the evaporator 31. The ventilator 50 is not particularly limited, and any known type can be used.

[0106] On the other hand, in the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 4 and 5, a ventilator 50 is provided in a flow path 10 within a duct 15 separate from the HVAC unit 30. In the air conditioning system shown in Figure 6, a ventilator 50 is provided not only in the HVAC unit 30 but also in the flow path 10 within the duct 15. Specifically, in the air conditioning system shown in Figure 4, in the flow path 10 within the duct 15 upstream of the HVAC unit 30, a ventilator 50 can be included in both the third flow path 13 where the air conditioning device 20 is located and the fourth flow path 14 where the air conditioning device 20 is not located. In the air conditioning system shown in Figure 5, in the flow path 10 within the duct 15 upstream of the HVAC unit 30, a ventilator 50 can be included in the flow path 10 upstream of the third flow path 13 and the fourth flow path 14. In the air conditioning system shown in Figure 6, a ventilator 50 can be included in the third flow path 13 upstream of the air conditioning device 20.

[0107] In the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6, the HVAC unit 30 may include an indoor air supply port 51a for supplying indoor air, an outdoor air supply port 51b for supplying outdoor air, and a damper 52 for adjusting the flow rates of indoor and outdoor air. On the other hand, in the case of the air conditioning system shown in Figures 4 and 5, the duct 15 upstream of the HVAC unit 30 may include an indoor air supply port 51a for supplying indoor air, an outdoor air supply port 51b for supplying outdoor air, and a damper 52 for adjusting the flow rates of indoor and outdoor air.

[0108] The HVAC unit 30 may include an air mix door 39 between the evaporator 31 and the condenser 32. The air mix door 39 is configured to rotate within the flow path 10 of the HVAC unit 30 between a heating position that opens a heating path toward the condenser 32 and a cooling position that opens a cooling path that bypasses the condenser 32. By rotating the air mix door 39 between the heating and cooling positions, the ratio of air passing through the condenser 32 to air bypassing the condenser 32 can be adjusted, thereby controlling the temperature of the air flowing into the vehicle cabin.

[0109] The evaporator 31 and condenser 32 of the HVAC unit 30 can be connected to a heat pump cycle. Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the heat pump cycle connected to the evaporator 31 and the condenser 32. In the heat pump cycle, the evaporator 31 can exchange heat between the cold energy of the refrigerant and the air. Specifically, the evaporator 31 can absorb heat from the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing through the heat pump cycle, cooling the air in the flow path 10 that passes around the evaporator 31. The condenser 32 can also exchange heat between the warm energy of the refrigerant and the air. Specifically, the condenser 32 can dissipate heat from the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing through the heat pump cycle, heating the air in the flow path 10 that passes around the condenser 32.

[0110] The heat pump cycle may further include a compressor 35, an outdoor heat exchanger 36, expansion valves 37a, 37b, and shut-off valves 38a to 38d, with each of these components connected via a refrigerant flow path.

[0111] The compressor 35 has the function of compressing and discharging the refrigerant. The compressor 35's suction section is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 36, and its discharge section is connected to the condenser 32 via a refrigerant flow path. The compressor 35 is driven by the control unit 40 and compresses the refrigerant, thereby discharging high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant to the condenser 32. Furthermore, known devices such as a gas-liquid separator may be provided between the compressor 35 and the outdoor heat exchanger 36.

[0112] The outdoor heat exchanger 36 has the function of exchanging heat between the refrigerant and the outside air. The outdoor heat exchanger 36 can absorb heat from the outside air by the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant circulating inside, mainly when the heating operation mode is running, and vaporizes the refrigerant by absorbing heat from the outside air. In addition, the outdoor heat exchanger 36 can release heat to the outside air by the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant circulating inside, and cools the refrigerant by releasing heat to the outside air.

[0113] The expansion valves 37a and 37b are throttle valves whose opening degree can be adjusted by the control unit 40. In particular, when the heating operation mode is running, the expansion valve 37a depressurizes and expands the refrigerant discharged from the condenser 32, and then discharges the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant to the outdoor heat exchanger 36. Similarly, when the cooling operation mode is running, the expansion valve 37b depressurizes and expands the refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger 36, and then discharges the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant to the evaporator 31.

[0114] The shut-off valves 38a to 38d are provided to control the flow path of the refrigerant. The opening and closing of the shut-off valves 38a to 38d are controlled by the control unit 40.

[0115] (4. Control Unit 40) The control unit 40 is electrically connected to the air conditioning device 20 and the HVAC unit 30 (if present). The control unit 40 controls the air conditioning device 20 and the HVAC unit 30 (including the heat pump cycle) according to the operating mode. Specifically, the control unit 40 can control the air conditioning device 20 to perform adsorption (dehumidification) mode or regeneration mode, and can control the HVAC unit 30 to perform heating operation mode or cooling operation (dehumidification) mode.

[0116] The control unit 40 is electrically connected to the shut-off valves 38a to 38d of the heat pump cycle, and can control the flow path of the refrigerant by opening and closing the shut-off valves 38a to 38d. The control unit 40 is also electrically connected to the expansion valves 37a and 37b of the heat pump cycle, and can control the degree of refrigerant pressure reduction by adjusting the opening of the expansion valves 37a and 37b. Furthermore, the control unit 40 is electrically connected to the air mix door 39, the ventilator 50, the first valve 60, the second valve 61, etc., and can control these as well.

[0117] The control unit 40 is not particularly limited, but is generally an ECU (Engine (electronic) Control Unit). The ECU includes a CPU that performs various calculation processes, a ROM that stores programs and data necessary for its control, a RAM that temporarily stores the results of calculations performed by the CPU, and input / output ports for inputting and outputting signals to and from the outside.

[0118] In the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, the control unit 40 can execute an adsorption mode and a regeneration mode as operating modes for the air conditioning device 20.

[0119] <Adsorption Mode> In the air conditioning system shown in Figures 2 and 4, the ventilator 50 located in the third flow path 13 is activated, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that air flows into the first flow path 11, thereby circulating air through the air conditioning device 20 to adsorb the substance to be adsorbed. Furthermore, in the air conditioning system shown in Figures 3 and 5, the ventilator 50 is activated, and the second valve 61 is controlled so that air flows into the third flow path 13, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that air flows into the first flow path 11, thereby circulating air through the air conditioning device 20 to adsorb the substance to be adsorbed. Furthermore, in the air conditioning system shown in Figure 6, the ventilator 50 in the HVAC unit 30 is activated, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that air flows into the first flow path 11, thereby circulating air to the air conditioning device 20 and adsorbing the substance to be adsorbed. At this time, the ventilator 50 located in the third flow path 13 may also be activated. In adsorption mode, the air conditioning device 20 is not heated.

[0120] <Playback Mode> In the air conditioning system shown in Figures 2, 4, and 6, a fan 50 located in the third flow path 13 is activated to allow air to flow into the third flow path 13, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that the air flows out into the second flow path 12, thereby circulating air to the air conditioning device 20. By heating the air conditioning device 20 at this time, adsorbed substances attached to the air conditioning device 20 are detached, allowing the air conditioning device 20 to be regenerated. Furthermore, in the air conditioning systems shown in Figures 3 and 5, the ventilator 50 is activated, and the second valve 61 is controlled so that air flows into the third flow path 13, and the first valve 60 is controlled so that air flows out into the second flow path 12, thereby circulating air to the air conditioning device 20. By heating the air conditioning device 20 at this time, the adsorbed substances adsorbed on the air conditioning device 20 are detached, allowing the air conditioning device 20 to be regenerated.

[0121] In the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, the control unit 40 can execute a heating operation mode and a cooling operation mode as operating modes for the HVAC unit 30.

[0122] <Heating operation mode> In heating operation mode, shut-off valves 38a and 38b are opened, and shut-off valves 38c and 38d are closed to form a flow path through which the refrigerant flows sequentially through the compressor 35, condenser 32, expansion valve 37a, and outdoor heat exchanger 36. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor 35 enters the condenser 32 as a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant, and dissipates heat by exchanging heat with the air circulating in the flow path 10 of the HVAC unit 30. The refrigerant that leaves the condenser 32 is depressurized and expanded in the expansion valve 37a, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant. After that, it exchanges heat with the outside air in the outdoor heat exchanger 36, absorbs heat, and returns to the compressor 35. When this heating operation mode is activated, the air flowing through the passage 10 in the HVAC unit 30 is heated by the condenser 32, and the heated air can be flowed into the passenger compartment. The temperature of the air flowing into the passenger compartment can be adjusted by controlling the opening degree of the air mix door 39.

[0123] <First cooling operation mode> In cooling operation mode, shut-off valves 38c and 38d are opened and shut-off valves 38a and 38b are closed to form a flow path through which the refrigerant flows sequentially through the compressor 35, outdoor heat exchanger 36, expansion valve 37b, and evaporator 31. The refrigerant, compressed by the compressor 35 to become high temperature and high pressure, is cooled by exchanging heat with the outside air in the outdoor heat exchanger 36. The refrigerant that leaves the outdoor heat exchanger 36 is depressurized and expanded in the expansion valve 37b, becoming low temperature and low pressure, and enters the evaporator 31, where it exchanges heat with the air circulating in the flow path 10 of the HVAC unit 30 and absorbs heat. The refrigerant that leaves the evaporator 31 returns to the compressor 35. When this cooling operation mode is activated, the air circulating in the flow path 10 of the HVAC unit 30 is cooled by the evaporator 31, and the cooled air flows into the passenger compartment. This cooling operation mode is particularly useful when it is desired to rapidly cool the passenger compartment (high-power cooling operation mode).

[0124] <Second cooling operation mode> In the second cooling operation mode, shut-off valves 38b and 38d are opened and shut-off valves 38a and 38c are closed to form a flow path through which the refrigerant flows sequentially through the compressor 35, condenser 32, expansion valve 37a, outdoor heat exchanger 36, expansion valve 37b, and evaporator 31. In this cooling operation mode, the refrigerant flow path includes a condenser 32 and an expansion valve 37a located downstream of the compressor 35. In this cooling operation mode, the cooling of the air by the evaporator 31 and the heating of the air by the condenser 32 can be adjusted by controlling the opening of the air mix door 39, thereby controlling the air temperature to an optimal level.

[0125] (Embodiment 2) The air conditioning system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention has the same components as the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and differs from the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 in that it controls the airflow rate to satisfy predetermined conditions when the air conditioning device is in regeneration mode. Similarly, the control method for the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention differs from the control method for the air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 in that it controls the airflow rate to satisfy predetermined conditions when the air conditioning device is in regeneration mode. Therefore, only this difference will be explained, and other explanations will be omitted. Components having the same reference numerals as those that appeared in the description of the air conditioning system and its control method according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are the same components as those of the air conditioning system and its control method according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0126] The air conditioning system and control method according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention control the airflow rate of the air conditioning device 20 in regeneration mode so as to satisfy the following conditions (1) to (5). (1) When the air temperature is 120°C or higher, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 is 1950 or less. (2) When the air temperature is between 90°C and 120°C, the air flow rate [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 to [g / second] is 600 or less. (3) When the air temperature is 70°C or higher but less than 90°C, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 is 300 or less. (4) When the air temperature is between 50°C and 70°C, the air flow rate [m³ 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 to [g / second] is 130 or less. (5) When the air temperature is below 50°C, the air flow rate [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 to [g / second] is 60 or less.

[0127] When the amount of adsorbed substance to be desorbed is large during the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20, if the airflow rate is low, the adsorbed substance is more likely to accumulate inside the air conditioning device 20, reducing the efficiency of the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20. Therefore, as described above, the airflow rate [m 3 By controlling the ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20, the accumulation of adsorbed substance within the air conditioning device 20 can be suppressed, thereby enabling efficient regeneration of the air conditioning device 20.

[0128] Here, the amount of adsorbed substance desorbed during the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device 20 changes depending on the air temperature. Therefore, the air flow rate [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] to [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 is determined according to the air temperature range, as described in conditions (1) to (5) above. The maximum amount of adsorbed substance to be desorbed [g / second] in the air conditioning device 20 can be determined by measuring the amount of adsorbed substance to be desorbed in the air conditioning device 20. Specifically, sensors for measuring the concentration of the adsorbed substance are installed at the inlet and outlet of the air conditioning device 20, and the concentration of the adsorbed substance is measured at 1-second intervals. The amount of adsorbed substance to be desorbed is then calculated using the following formula. Amount of adsorbed substance removed [g / sec] = (Concentration of adsorbed substance at the outlet of air conditioning device 20 [g / kg] - Concentration of adsorbed substance at the inlet of air conditioning device 20 [g / kg]) × Air flow rate [kg / sec] Then, the maximum amount of adsorbed substance desorbed from the amounts calculated above is defined as the maximum desorbed amount. [Examples]

[0129] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited in any way by these examples.

[0130] [Experiment A] <Fabrication of air conditioning devices> BaCO3 powder, TiO2 powder, and La(NH3)3·6H2O powder were prepared as ceramic raw materials. These powders were weighed to obtain a predetermined composition after firing and dry-mixed to obtain a mixed powder. Dry mixing was carried out for 30 minutes. Next, to 100 parts by mass of the obtained mixed powder, water, binder, plasticizer, and dispersant were added in appropriate amounts in the range of 3 to 30 parts by mass in total, so that a ceramic molded body with a relative density of 64.8% after extrusion molding would be obtained, and the mixture was kneaded to obtain clay. Methylcellulose was used as the binder. Polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether was used as the plasticizer and dispersant.

[0131] Next, the obtained clay was fed into an extrusion molding machine and extruded using a predetermined die so that it would form a honeycomb structure with the shape shown below after firing. Cross-sectional and end face shapes of the honeycomb structure perpendicular to the flow direction: quadrilateral Shape of the cell cross-section perpendicular to the flow direction: quadrilateral Wall thickness: 0.100 mm Outer wall thickness: 0.2 mm Cell density: 80 cells / cm 2 Cell pitch: 1.1mm Cross-sectional area of ​​the honeycomb structure perpendicular to the flow direction: 6000 mm² 2 Length of honeycomb structure in the direction of flow path: 10 mm Volume resistivity of the materials constituting the outer walls and partitions at 25°C: 15 Ω·cm Curie point of materials constituting the outer walls and partition walls: 110°C

[0132] Next, the obtained honeycomb molded body was dielectric-dried and hot-air-dried, then degreased in a firing furnace under an atmospheric atmosphere (450°C for 4 hours), and subsequently fired under an atmospheric atmosphere to obtain a honeycomb structure. The firing was carried out by holding at 950°C for 1 hour, then raising the temperature to 1200°C and holding at 1200°C for 1 hour, and then raising the temperature to 1400°C (maximum temperature) at a heating rate of 200°C / hour and holding at 1400°C for 2 hours.

[0133] Next, a pair of electrodes were formed on both end faces (first and second end faces) of the obtained honeycomb structure. First, an electrode slurry containing aluminum (electrode material), ethyl cellulose, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (organic binder) was prepared, applied to the first end face, and then the electrode slurry was dried to form an electrode on the surface of the first end face. Similarly, using the same electrode slurry, an electrode was formed on the second end face by applying the electrode slurry and drying it.

[0134] Next, the honeycomb structure with a pair of electrodes was immersed in a slurry containing zeolite (adsorbent), an organic binder, and water. After removing excess slurry adhering to areas such as the outer periphery by blowing and wiping, the structure was dried at a temperature of approximately 550°C to form an adsorption layer with a thickness of 150 μm on the surface of the partition walls and the outer periphery walls facing the cells.

[0135] The air conditioning devices obtained as described above were placed inside the air conditioning duct to construct an air conditioning system as shown in Figure 1. The substance to be adsorbed in this air conditioning system was water. After performing the adsorption mode on the air conditioning system, a regeneration mode was performed. In the adsorption mode, air at a temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity of 40% was circulated through the flow path at a flow rate of 380 L / min for 3 minutes. In the regeneration mode, power was supplied to the air conditioning device from a power supply connected to the control unit to heat it, while air at a temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity of 40% was circulated through the flow path for 1 minute. Table 1 shows the average power and air flow rate supplied to the air conditioning device during the regeneration mode. The average power and air flow rate were controlled by adjusting the power supply output and the rotation speed of the fan, respectively. In regeneration mode, the absolute humidity [g / m³] at the inlet and outlet of the air conditioning device is measured. 3 The amount of moisture released [g] was calculated by measuring [ ] and using the following formula. Dehumidification rate [g] = (Absolute humidity at the outlet of the air conditioning device [g / m³] 3 ]-Absolute humidity at the inlet of the air conditioning device [g / m³] 3 ])×Flow rate [m 3 [ / minute] × Playback time [minutes] In this evaluation, a moisture release of 1.0g or more indicates good moisture release performance, and in particular, a moisture release of 1.4g or more indicates excellent moisture release performance. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0136] [Table 1]

[0137] As shown in Table 1, Examples 1 to 4, in which the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device was controlled to 0.10 to 1.90 during the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device, showed a greater amount of moisture release and superior moisture release performance compared to Comparative Examples 1 to 4, in which the ratio was controlled outside the predetermined range.

[0138] [Experiment B] An air conditioning device was fabricated in the same manner as in Experiment A. Furthermore, during the formation of the adsorption layer, the amount of zeolite (adsorbent) was adjusted to control the amount of adsorbent contained in the adsorption layer formed on the surface of the partition wall and the outer wall facing the cell, to the values ​​shown in Table 2. Next, the air conditioning devices obtained as described above were placed inside the air conditioning duct to construct an air conditioning system as shown in Figure 1. The substance to be adsorbed in this air conditioning system was water. Next, the adsorption mode was performed on the air conditioning system, followed by the regeneration mode. In the adsorption mode, 0.0117 m³ of air at a temperature of 20°C and relative humidity of 30% was used. 3 The air was circulated through the channel for 3 minutes at a flow rate of [m³ / second]. In regeneration mode, power was supplied to the air conditioning device from a power supply connected to the control unit to heat it, while air at the temperature and relative humidity of 30% shown in Table 2 was circulated through the channel for 3 minutes. At this time, the air flow rate was [m³ / second]. 3 The ratio of the maximum desorption amount of the adsorbed substance [g / second] to the air conditioning device was controlled to the values ​​shown in Table 2. The maximum desorption amount of the adsorbed substance was calculated using the method described above, and the airflow rate was controlled by adjusting the rotation speed of the fan. In regeneration mode, the absolute humidity [g / m³] at the inlet and outlet of the air conditioning device is measured. 3The amount of moisture released [g] was calculated in the same manner as in Experiment A. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0139] [Table 2]

[0140] As shown in Table 2, in the regeneration mode of the air conditioning device with an air temperature of 140°C, the airflow rate [m³ 3 In Example No. A-1 (Concept), where the ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance (moisture) released (dehumidification amount) [g / sec] to [g / sec] in the air conditioning device was controlled to 1950, the dehumidification amount was greater and the dehumidification performance was superior compared to Example No. A-2 (Comparative Example), where the ratio was controlled to 2400. In comparisons between Example No. B-1 (Concept) and No. B-2 (Comparative Example), between Example No. C-1 (Concept) and No. C-2 (Comparative Example), between Example No. D-1 (Concept) and No. D-2 (Comparative Example), and between Example No. E-1 (Concept) and No. E-2 (Comparative Example), the Examples also showed greater dehumidification and superior dehumidification performance compared to the Comparative Examples.

[0141] As can be seen from the above results, the present invention provides an air conditioning system and a control method thereof that can efficiently perform the regeneration mode of an air conditioning device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0142] 10 channels 11. First channel 12 Second channel 13 Third channel 14. Fourth channel 15 ducts 20 Air Conditioning Devices 21 Honeycomb structure 22 Outer wall 23a First end surface 23b 2nd end face 24 cells 25 Bulkhead 26 Adsorption layer 27a, 27b A pair of electrodes 28 terminals 30 HVAC units 31 Evaporator 32 Capacitors 33a Defroster opening 33b Foot opening 33c Face opening 34a Defroster Door 34b Footdoor 34c face door 35 Compressor 36 Outdoor heat exchanger 37a, 37b Expansion valve 38a~38d Shut-off valves 39 Air Mix Door 40 Control Unit 50 Ventilator 51a Indoor air supply port 51b Outside air supply port 52 Damper 60. Valve No. 1 61. Second valve

Claims

1. A flow path through which air can circulate, An air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the target substance, comprising: a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage; and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the target substance, A control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air circulating through the aforementioned flow path and the air conditioning device. Equipped with, The control unit controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode, in an air conditioning system.

2. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.20 to 1.70 when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode.

3. The air conditioning system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit changes at least one of the power supplied to the air conditioning device and the airflow rate when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode.

4. A flow path through which air can circulate, An air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the target substance, comprising: a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage; and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the target substance, A control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air circulating through the aforementioned flow path and the air conditioning device. Equipped with, The control unit controls the airflow rate of the air conditioning device when it is in the regeneration mode, thereby providing an air conditioning system that satisfies the following conditions. (1) When the temperature of the air is 120°C or higher, the flow rate of the air [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 1950 or less. (2) When the temperature of the air is 90°C or higher and less than 120°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 600 or less. (3) When the temperature of the air is 70°C or higher and less than 90°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 300 or less. (4) When the temperature of the air is 50°C or higher and less than 70°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 130 or less. (5) When the temperature of the air is less than 50°C, the flow rate of the air [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 60 or less.

5. The air conditioning device is a honeycomb structure having an outer periphery wall and partition walls disposed inside the outer periphery wall, which divide and form a plurality of cells that serve as airflow channels extending from a first end face to a second end face. An adsorption layer containing the adsorbent is provided on the surface of the partition wall, and A pair of electrodes provided on the first and second end faces of the honeycomb structure, or on the outer peripheral wall parallel to the direction in which the cells of the honeycomb structure extend. An air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising:

6. The air conditioning system according to claim 5, wherein at least the partition wall of the honeycomb structure is made of a material having PTC properties.

7. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the flow path is branched downstream of the air conditioning device into a first flow path for bringing the air into the room and a second flow path for discharging the air to the outside, and further comprises a first valve capable of switching the flow of the air between the first flow path and the second flow path.

8. The control unit is capable of controlling the first valve, The air conditioning system according to claim 7, wherein the control unit switches the first valve so that the air flows through the first channel in the adsorption mode, and switches the first valve so that the air flows through the second channel in the regeneration mode, and heats the substrate.

9. The flow path is further provided with a fan for adjusting the flow rate of the air, The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit adjusts the airflow rate by controlling the rotation speed of the ventilator.

10. The air conditioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the adsorbed substance is water.

11. A flow path through which air can circulate, An air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the target substance, comprising: a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage; and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the target substance, A control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air circulating through the aforementioned flow path and the air conditioning device. In an air conditioning system equipped with, A control method for an air conditioning system, wherein the control unit controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.10 to 1.90 when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode.

12. The control unit controls the ratio of the airflow rate [L / min] to the average power [W] supplied to the air conditioning device to 0.20 to 1.70 when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode, the control method for an air conditioning system according to claim 11.

13. The control unit changes at least one of the power supplied to the air conditioning device and the airflow rate when the air conditioning device is in the regeneration mode, according to the control method for an air conditioning system according to claim 11 or 12.

14. A flow path through which air can circulate, An air conditioning device disposed within the flow path and capable of performing an adsorption mode for adsorbing a target substance and a regeneration mode for desorbing the target substance, comprising: a substrate portion that can be heated by the application of voltage; and an adsorption portion containing an adsorbent capable of adsorbing and desorbing the target substance, A control unit capable of controlling the flow rate of the air circulating through the aforementioned flow path and the air conditioning device. In an air conditioning system equipped with, A control method for an air conditioning system, wherein the control unit controls the airflow rate of the air conditioning device when it is in the regeneration mode, so as to satisfy the following conditions. (1) When the temperature of the air is 120°C or higher, the flow rate of the air [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 1950 or less. (2) When the temperature of the air is 90°C or higher and less than 120°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 600 or less. (3) When the temperature of the air is 70°C or higher and less than 90°C, the flow rate of the air is [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 300 or less. When the temperature of the air is 50°C or higher and lower than 70°C, the ratio of the maximum desorption amount [g / sec] of the adsorption target substance in the air conditioner to the air flow rate [m 3 / sec] is 130 or less. (5) When the temperature of the air is less than 50°C, the flow rate of the air [m 3 The ratio of the maximum amount of adsorbed substance [g / second] in the air conditioning device to [g / second] is 60 or less.

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