Dehumidifier

Abstract

The present invention provides a dehumidifier that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance caused by supplying vaporized hypochlorous acid. [Solution] The dehumidifier 1 includes a dehumidifying air passage 12 through which the inhaled air A2 passes, a dehumidifying unit 20 that dehumidifies the air A2 passing through the dehumidifying air passage 12, a hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 that branches off upstream of the dehumidifying unit 20, through which a portion of the air before passing through the dehumidifying unit 20 (air B1) passes and merges downstream of the dehumidifying unit 20, and a hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 that supplies hypochlorous acid gas to the air B2 passing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. The air A3 that has passed through the dehumidifying air passage 12 and the air B7 that has passed through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 are mixed and blown out. The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is equipped with a water recovery unit 46, and at least a portion of the air B1 that has passed through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 (air B2) passes through the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, where moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit 46 and released together with the hypochlorous acid gas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a dehumidifying device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, dehumidifying devices have been put into practical use to reduce the humidity of the air in an indoor space and increase comfort. Representative dehumidifying methods of dehumidifying devices include a compressor method, a desiccant method, and a hybrid method. In the compressor method, air is cooled by a cooler cooled by a compressor, and moisture contained in the air is condensed to dehumidify. In the desiccant method, moisture contained in the air is absorbed by a desiccant, evaporated by a heater, and the water vapor is cooled at room temperature and condensed to dehumidify. In the hybrid method, the compressor method and the desiccant method are combined to dehumidify.

[0003] In particular, as a dehumidifying device of the compressor method, for example, a dehumidifier described in Patent Document 1 is known.

[0004] On the other hand, in recent years, awareness of the air cleanliness in an indoor space has been increasing, and as a means for removing bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, etc. contained in the air, an air purification device that vaporizes hypochlorous acid from hypochlorous acid water and releases it is used.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Therefore, if a conventional dehumidifier is configured by connecting it to an air purifier that vaporizes and releases hypochlorous acid from a hypochlorous acid solution, there is a concern that the air purifier will vaporize water along with the vaporization of hypochlorous acid, thus humidifying the dehumidified air, and thus reducing the overall amount of dehumidification.

[0007] This invention was made in view of the above problems, and provides a dehumidifier that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when hypochlorous acid is vaporized and supplied. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The dehumidifier according to the present invention comprises: an intake port for drawing in air from an indoor space; a dehumidifying air passage through which the air drawn in from the intake port flows; a dehumidifying unit arranged in the dehumidifying air passage for dehumidifying the air flowing through the dehumidifying air passage; a hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage that branches off from the upstream side of the dehumidifying unit in the dehumidifying air passage, through which a portion of the air before it flows through the dehumidifying unit flows, and which merges with the downstream side of the dehumidifying unit in the dehumidifying air passage; a hypochlorous acid gas supply unit arranged in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage for supplying hypochlorous acid gas to the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage; and an outlet where the air that has flowed through the dehumidifying air passage and the air that has flowed through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage are mixed and blown out into the indoor space. The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit is equipped with a water recovery unit that recovers moisture contained in the air. At least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage flows inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit, where moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit and released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage together with the hypochlorous acid gas. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The present invention provides a dehumidifier that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when hypochlorous acid is vaporized and supplied. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a dehumidifier according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2]Figure 2 is a front cross-sectional view showing the hypochlorous acid gas supply section of the dehumidifier according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Embodiment 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the xyz coordinates shown in the diagrams are for convenience in explaining the positional relationships of the components. Unless otherwise specified, the positive z-axis direction is vertically upward. Also, the xy-plane is the horizontal plane and is consistent across all drawings.

[0012] <Embodiment 1> Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 1, the dehumidifier 1 is installed in an indoor space R. It draws in air from the indoor space R, dehumidifies the drawn-in air, supplies hypochlorous acid gas, and then releases the dehumidified air, which has been supplied with hypochlorous acid gas, back into the indoor space R. In other words, the dehumidifier 1 is a device that dehumidifies the indoor space R and supplies hypochlorous acid gas to the indoor space R, removing bacteria, fungi, viruses, or odors contained in the air. Although not specifically shown in the figures, the dehumidifier 1 is connected to an external power source, as well as to a water supply path and a drainage path.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the dehumidifier 1 comprises an intake port 10, an outlet port 11, a dehumidifying air passage 12, a filter 14, a blower 15, a dehumidifying unit 20, a hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, and a hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30.

[0014] The intake port 10 is an opening that draws air from the indoor space R into the interior of the dehumidifier 1.

[0015] The indoor space R is a space where the dehumidifying device 1 is installed to perform dehumidification and supply hypochlorous acid gas. More specifically, it is a space partitioned by a roof, walls, partitions, etc., where the inflow and outflow of air are blocked, and for example, it refers to hospitals, offices, underground warehouses, houses, indoor smoking areas, etc. where frequent ventilation is difficult. Since the indoor space R is also a space outside the dehumidifying device 1, it may be referred to as the "external space".

[0016] The air outlet 11 is an opening for blowing out the air sucked into the interior of the dehumidifying device 1 into the indoor space R.

[0017] The dehumidifying air duct 12 is an air duct connecting the suction port 10 and the air outlet 11. A filter 14, a blower 15, and a dehumidifying unit 20 are arranged in the dehumidifying air duct 12.

[0018] The filter 14 is detachably arranged immediately downstream of the suction port 10 in the dehumidifying air duct 12, that is, upstream of the blower 15, the dehumidifying unit 20, the hypochlorous acid gas supply air duct 13, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, etc. to be described later.

[0019] The filter 14 collects dust, dirt, etc. with a large particle size contained in the air sucked from the indoor space R.

[0020] The blower 15 is detachably arranged at an arbitrary position inside the dehumidifying air duct 12.

[0021] The blower 15 sucks air into the interior of the dehumidifying device 1 from the suction port 10 by blowing the air, and circulates it inside the dehumidifying device 1. Further, by circulating inside the dehumidifying device 1, the air is dehumidified and the air with hypochlorous acid gas added is blown out from the air outlet 11 into the indoor space R.

[0022] The dehumidifying unit 20 is arranged on the downstream side of the dehumidifying air duct 12. Note that the dehumidifying unit 20 may be detachably arranged at an arbitrary position inside the dehumidifying air duct 12.

[0023] The dehumidifying unit 20 dehumidifies the air circulating inside the dehumidifying air passage 12. Details of the dehumidifying unit 20 will be described later.

[0024] The hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 is an air passage that branches off from the upstream side of the dehumidification unit 20 in the dehumidification air passage 12 and merges with the downstream side of the dehumidification unit 20 in the dehumidification air passage 12. The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is located in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0025] The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 supplies hypochlorous acid gas to the air circulating inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0026] The hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 merges with the downstream side of the dehumidification section 20 in the dehumidification air passage 12. That is, the air supplied with hypochlorous acid gas merges with the dehumidified air and mixes. The dehumidified air, now supplied with hypochlorous acid gas, is then released from the outlet 11 into the indoor space R.

[0027] With this configuration, the dehumidifier 1 dehumidifies the indoor space R and also disinfects the indoor space R by supplying hypochlorous acid gas.

[0028] [Dehumidification section 20] As described above, the dehumidifying unit 20 is detachably positioned at any location inside the dehumidifying air passage 12 and dehumidifies the air circulating inside the dehumidifying air passage 12.

[0029] The dehumidification method of the dehumidification unit 20 can be any method that dehumidifies the air circulating inside the dehumidification air passage 12, and may be, for example, a compressor type, a desiccant type, or a hybrid type.

[0030] In this embodiment, an example in which the dehumidification unit 20 dehumidifies using a compressor method will be described.

[0031] The compressor system is a method in which a refrigerant cooled by a compressor (compressor 24, described later) is circulated through a cooler (evaporator 21, described later), and the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air, cooling the air and dehumidifying it by condensing the moisture contained in the air.

[0032] The dehumidification unit 20 is comprised of a refrigerant circuit. A refrigerant circuit is a circuit through which the refrigerant circulates. As shown in Figure 1, the refrigerant circuit is formed by an evaporator 21, an expander 22, a condenser 23, a compressor 24, and refrigerant pipes 25 connecting them.

[0033] Refrigerant flows through the evaporator 21, expander 22, condenser 23, and compressor 24. The evaporator 21, expander 22, condenser 23, and compressor 24 are connected in a ring shape via refrigerant pipes 25 through which the refrigerant flows.

[0034] The evaporator 21 and condenser 23 are heat exchangers that perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and air. The compressor 24 is a device that compresses the refrigerant. The expander 22 is a device that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The expander 22 is, for example, an expansion valve or a capillary tube.

[0035] The refrigerant that has flowed through the evaporator 21 flows into the compressor 24. The refrigerant that flows into the compressor 24 is compressed by the compressor 24 and flows out of the compressor 24 as a high-temperature, high-pressure gas.

[0036] The refrigerant that flows out of the compressor 24 flows into the condenser 23. The refrigerant that flows into the condenser 23 releases heat into the air by the condenser 23 and flows out of the condenser 23 as a high-pressure liquid.

[0037] The refrigerant that flows out of the condenser 23 flows into the expander 22. The refrigerant that flows into the expander 22 expands in the expander 22 and flows out of the expander 22 in a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase state.

[0038] The refrigerant that flows out of the expander 22 flows into the evaporator 21. The refrigerant that flows into the evaporator 21 absorbs heat from the air in the evaporator 21, becomes a low-pressure gas, flows out of the evaporator 21, and flows back into the compressor 24.

[0039] In this way, in the dehumidification unit 20, the refrigerant flows sequentially through the compressor 24, condenser 23, expander 22, and evaporator 21, circulating through the refrigerant circuit. That is, the refrigerant circulates through the refrigerant circuit in the direction indicated by the black arrow.

[0040] The air circulating through the dehumidification unit 20 is cooled by contact with the evaporator 21, which is in a low-temperature state, and the moisture contained in the air is removed by condensation.

[0041] The condenser 23 may be located downstream of the evaporator 21 in the dehumidifying air passage 12. When the condenser 23 is located downstream of the evaporator 21 in the dehumidifying air passage 12, it can efficiently dissipate heat by coming into contact with the air cooled by contact with the evaporator 21. The condenser 23 may be located at any position inside the dehumidifier 1.

[0042] [Hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30] As described above, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is detachably positioned at any location inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 and supplies hypochlorous acid gas to the air circulating inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0043] In this embodiment, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 introduces at least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 into its interior.

[0044] As will be explained in more detail later, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 generates hypochlorous acid from an aqueous solution containing chloride ions, vaporizes it, and supplies it to the air circulating inside. At this time, water is also vaporized along with the vaporization of the hypochlorous acid, so the air circulating inside is humidified.

[0045] The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is equipped with a water recovery unit 46 for recovering moisture from the air circulating inside. In this embodiment, the water recovery unit 46 comprises a cooling unit 46a and a heat dissipation unit 46b. The cooling unit 46a condenses moisture contained in the air circulating inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30. The heat dissipation unit 46b is located downstream of the cooling unit 46a and efficiently dissipates heat by coming into contact with the air cooled by circulating through the cooling unit 46a. As a result, moisture is recovered from the air circulating inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 and released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 together with the hypochlorous acid gas. Details of the water recovery unit 46 will be described later.

[0046] In this way, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 supplies hypochlorous acid gas to the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0047] The details of the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 will be explained below using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a front cross-sectional view showing the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0048] As shown in Figure 2, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 comprises a housing C, an electrolytic cell 40, and a current control unit 60. The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 may further include a supply tank 50 and an anion exchange membrane 54.

[0049] The housing C is a box-shaped member that houses the electrolytic cell 40, the supply tank 50, the anion exchange membrane 54, and the current control unit 60. In other words, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is an integrated unit within the housing C. The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is small enough to be housed inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, and when the housing C is rectangular, its dimensions are, for example, about 10 cm × 7 cm × 4 cm.

[0050] [Electrolytic cell 40] The electrolytic cell 40 is a tank for storing a first aqueous solution L1 containing chloride ions. The electrolytic cell 40 has a box-like shape, for example. Figure 2 shows the electrolytic cell 40 with the first aqueous solution L1 stored in it. The amount of the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 40 is, for example, about 2 mL to 10 mL. The first aqueous solution L1 is, for example, an aqueous solution in which an electrically conductive electrolyte is dissolved, i.e., an electrolyte, and specifically a dilute chloride aqueous solution having a predetermined chloride ion concentration. More specifically, the first aqueous solution L1 is, for example, a dilute sodium chloride aqueous solution or a dilute potassium chloride aqueous solution.

[0051] The "predetermined chloride ion concentration" of the first aqueous solution L1 includes both a chloride ion concentration having a predetermined numerical range and a chloride ion concentration having a predetermined numerical value. More specifically, the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 may be, for example, 17 mmol / L to 1500 mmol / L, or 171 mmol / L. In other words, for example, the concentration of a dilute sodium chloride aqueous solution or a dilute potassium chloride aqueous solution may be 17 mmol / L to 1500 mmol / L, or 171 mmol / L. By setting the predetermined chloride ion concentration to the numerical range or numerical value, it is possible to generate hypochlorous acid necessary for the purification of the indoor space R while simultaneously suppressing the generation of chlorine that may be generated.

[0052] The electrolytic cell 40 includes an electrolytic cell-side anode 41, an electrolytic cell-side cathode 42, an air supply unit 43, a blower pipe 44, an electrolytic cell-side internal space 45, a water recovery unit 46, and a discharge port 47. The electrolytic cell 40 may further include a water level detection unit 48.

[0053] The electrolytic cell anode 41 and the electrolytic cell cathode 42 are a pair of electrodes used for the electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1. Insoluble electrodes may be used as the electrolytic cell anode 41 and the electrolytic cell cathode 42. More specifically, for example, platinum-iridium titanium electrodes, platinum electrodes, ruthenium titanium electrodes, or iridium titanium oxide electrodes may be used. Alternatively, the electrolytic cell cathode 42 may be a titanium electrode, iron electrode, tin electrode, nickel electrode, or an alloy of the aforementioned metals, each having an oxide film formed on its surface. An example of a case where the electrolytic cell cathode 42 is a metal alloy is a nickel-titanium alloy or a titanium electrode with tin oxide as a catalyst. Iron electrodes with an oxide film formed on them contain both FeO and Fe2O3. The shape of the electrolytic cell anode 41 and the electrolytic cell cathode 42 may be plate-shaped, mesh-shaped, or rod-shaped.

[0054] There is no diaphragm, such as an ion exchange membrane, between the electrolytic cell anode 41 and the electrolytic cell cathode 42. In other words, the electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 performed using the pair of electrolytic cell anodes 41 and the electrolytic cell cathode 42 is diaphragm-free electrolysis. Hypochlorous acid gas, which is used to purify the indoor space R, is generated by the diaphragm-free electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 performed using the pair of electrolytic cell anodes 41 and the electrolytic cell cathode 42.

[0055] The air supply unit 43 is a blower, for example, that introduces air from outside the housing C (at least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, which will be described later) into the electrolytic cell 40.

[0056] The air blower pipe 44 is a tubular member that connects the air supply unit 43 and the electrolytic cell 40. One end of the air supply unit 43 is located on the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 side, and the other end is connected to the air blower pipe 44 side. One end of the air blower pipe 44 is connected to the air supply unit 43 side, and the other end is connected to the electrolytic cell 40 side. The end of the air blower pipe 44 located on the electrolytic cell 40 side is connected to the electrolytic cell 40 such that it is located below (negative z-axis side) the liquid level S1 of the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 40.

[0057] The air supply unit 43 supplies at least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 to the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 40 via the blower pipe 44. The air introduced into the first aqueous solution L1 via the air supply unit 43 and the blower pipe 44 is released into the first aqueous solution L1 as bubbles B3. A moisture-permeable waterproof membrane (not shown) may be placed over the entire diameter of the blower pipe 44. The moisture-permeable waterproof membrane is a membrane that allows air supplied from the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 and the moisture (water vapor) contained in the air to pass through, but does not allow the liquid first aqueous solution L1 to pass through. The placement of this moisture-permeable waterproof membrane prevents backflow of the first aqueous solution L1 from the electrolytic cell 40 to the blower pipe 44.

[0058] The electrolytic cell-side internal space 45 is an upper space (space on the positive z-axis side) formed above the liquid surface S1 of the first aqueous solution L1 when the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 40. In other words, the first aqueous solution L1 is not stored up to the upper interior surface of the electrolytic cell 40 (the xy-plane on the positive z-axis side), and the electrolytic cell 40 has the electrolytic cell-side internal space 45.

[0059] The water recovery unit 46 is a component that recovers moisture contained in the air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid, which flows through the inside of the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 and is released from the electrolytic cell 40 to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, as a liquid and returns it to the electrolytic cell 40. The water recovery unit 46 is, for example, a Peltier element that can cool the air and condense the moisture contained in the air. The Peltier element used as the water recovery unit 46 includes a cooling unit 46a and a heat dissipation unit 46b. The cooling unit 46a includes a cooling heat sink. The cooling heat sink cools the air passing through it and can condense the moisture contained in the air. The heat dissipation unit 46b includes a heat dissipation heat sink. The heat dissipation heat sink dissipates heat to the air passing through it and controls its temperature.

[0060] The cooling unit 46a may be positioned at the outlet 47 through which the air passes when it is released to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, in order to recover moisture contained in the air circulating inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30. When the cooling unit 46a is positioned at the outlet 47, moisture contained in the air that has circulated inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 can be efficiently recovered. The cooling unit 46a may be positioned at any position in the internal space 45 on the electrolytic cell side.

[0061] The heat dissipation unit 46b may be located downstream of the cooling unit 46a in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. When the heat dissipation unit 46b is located downstream of the cooling unit 46a in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, heat can be efficiently dissipated by contacting the air that has been cooled by flowing through the cooling unit 46a. The heat dissipation unit 46b may be located at any position inside the dehumidifier 1.

[0062] The discharge port 47 is an opening for releasing air, which is a mixture of air flowing in from the air supply unit 43 and hypochlorous acid generated from the first aqueous solution L1 by non-diaphragm electrolysis, to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 outside the housing C. In Figure 2, as an example, the top surface of the electrolytic cell 40 (z-axis) An outlet 47 is provided in the positive xy-plane, but it is sufficient that it is positioned above the liquid level S1 of the first aqueous solution L1. The shape of the outlet 47 is cylindrical, for example, cylindrical or rectangular. If the upper surface of the electrolytic cell 40 (the surface on the positive z-axis) is close to the ceiling surface of the housing C, the outlet 47 may be a hole-like opening provided in a part of the upper surface of the electrolytic cell 40. Alternatively, the outlet 47 and the upper surface of the housing C (the surface on the positive z-axis) may be formed as a single unit.

[0063] The discharge port 47 may be equipped with an openable / closable or removable lid (not shown). The lid may be kept closed when transporting, moving, or installing the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, and may be opened or removed when using the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30.

[0064] [Supply tank 50] The supply tank 50 is a tank for storing the second aqueous solution L2 containing chloride ions and for supplying the chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 to the first aqueous solution L1. Figure 2 shows the state in which the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 50.

[0065] As the solute for the second aqueous solution L2, GHS (Globally Horticultural Standards) is used to ensure safety in case of leakage. Harmonized System of Classification and A substance with a safety level equivalent to that of sodium chloride (labelling of chemicals) is preferred. Specifically, the second aqueous solution L2 is an aqueous metal chloride solution containing metal ions and chloride ions. The second aqueous solution L2 is subjected to diaphragm electrolysis via an anion exchange membrane 54, described later, so that the metal ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 react with hydroxide ions produced by the diaphragm electrolysis to form a precipitate of metal hydroxide. Preferably, the second aqueous solution L2 is a high-concentration magnesium chloride aqueous solution or a saturated magnesium chloride aqueous solution.

[0066] When a magnesium chloride aqueous solution is used as the second aqueous solution L2, the mass percentage concentration of the magnesium chloride aqueous solution is, for example, 1% to 35%. As an example, when the second aqueous solution L2 is a magnesium chloride aqueous solution, diaphragm electrolysis is performed, causing the magnesium ions contained in the magnesium chloride aqueous solution to react with the hydroxide ions produced by the diaphragm electrolysis to form a magnesium hydroxide precipitate. The "precipitate" of magnesium hydroxide includes hard, sandy, colloidal, slurry-like, or gel-like forms, and the aqueous solution may appear cloudy.

[0067] The supply tank 50 includes a supply tank-side cathode 51, a supply tank-side internal space 52, and an outlet 53. The supply tank-side cathode 51 is an electrode used in diaphragm electrolysis via an anion exchange membrane 54, as a pair with the electrolytic cell-side anode 41. Chloride ions are supplied from the second aqueous solution L2 to the first aqueous solution by diaphragm electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2, which is performed using the pair of supply tank-side cathodes 51 and the electrolytic cell-side anode 41.

[0068] An insoluble electrode may be used as the supply tank side cathode 51. More specifically, for example, a titanium electrode, a platinum-iridium titanium electrode, a platinum electrode, a ruthenium titanium electrode, or an iridium titanium oxide electrode may be used. The shape of the supply tank side cathode 51 may be any of the following, such as a plate, mesh, or rod, similar to the shapes of the electrolytic cell side anode 41 and the electrolytic cell side cathode 42.

[0069] The internal space 52 on the supply tank side is the upper space (space on the positive z-axis side) formed above the liquid surface S2 of the second aqueous solution L2 when the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 50. In other words, the second aqueous solution L2 is not stored up to the upper interior surface of the supply tank 50 (the xy plane on the positive z-axis side), and the supply tank 50 has the internal space 52 on the supply tank side.

[0070] The discharge port 53 is for hydrogen gas generated by the diaphragm electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2 to enter the housing C. This is an opening for discharge to the external hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. The outlet 53 is, for example, a check valve. When a check valve is used as the outlet 53, the hydrogen gas inside the supply tank 50 is discharged to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, but the inflow of gases such as air from the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 can be suppressed. When the diaphragm electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2 is repeated, hydrogen gas accumulates in the internal space 52 on the supply tank side, and the internal pressure of the supply tank 50 increases. This pressure causes the check valve of the outlet 53 to open, and the hydrogen gas is discharged to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 outside the supply tank 50.

[0071] If the supply tank 50 does not have an outlet 53, an air passage (not shown) may be provided to connect the internal space 45 on the electrolytic cell side and the internal space 52 on the supply tank side. If an air passage is provided between the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50, the hydrogen gas may be discharged in the following order: internal space 52 on the supply tank side, air passage, internal space 45 on the electrolytic cell side, and outlet 47.

[0072] The anion exchange membrane 54 is provided to connect the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50, and is a membrane-like member that allows anions to pass through based on the voltage applied between the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50. More specifically, when a voltage is applied between the anode 41 on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode 51 on the supply tank side, diaphragm electrolysis is performed via the anion exchange membrane 54. Through diaphragm electrolysis using the anode 41 on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode 51 on the supply tank side, chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 permeate the anion exchange membrane 54 and are supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 (indicated by the negative x-axis direction and thick black arrow).

[0073] The anion exchange membrane 54 is not a type of anion exchange membrane that allows anions to permeate by osmosis without the use of electricity. Furthermore, magnesium ions, which are cations, do not permeate the anion exchange membrane 54. More specifically, when chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 are supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 by diaphragm electrolysis using the electrolytic cell side anode 41 and the supply tank side cathode 51, magnesium ions, which are cations, do not permeate the anion exchange membrane 54. The anion exchange membrane 54 is, for example, a hydrocarbon-based anion exchange membrane. Specific examples of hydrocarbon-based anion exchange membranes include membranes with properties such as selective permeability of monovalent anions, alkali resistance, or high temperature resistance.

[0074] The anion exchange membrane 54 is positioned between the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50. If the surfaces of the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50 facing each other are formed by a frame-shaped member, the anion exchange membrane 54 may be positioned so as to be fitted into the frame-shaped member. In other words, the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50 are connected via the anion exchange membrane 54 in a way that allows anions to pass through.

[0075] Furthermore, the chloride ion concentration of the second aqueous solution L2 may be approximately the same as that of the first aqueous solution L1, and a high-concentration chloride aqueous solution supply tank may be provided to supply a high-concentration chloride aqueous solution to the second aqueous solution L2.

[0076] The current control unit 60 includes wiring 61, 62, and 63. Wiring 61, 62, and 63 are lines through which current flows. The electrolytic cell-side anode 41 is electrically connected to the current control unit 60 via wiring 61, the electrolytic cell-side cathode 42 via wiring 62, and the supply tank-side cathode 51 via wiring 63.

[0077] The current control unit 60 controls the currents used in non-diaphragm electrolysis and diaphragm electrolysis. More specifically, it controls the first current used in non-diaphragm electrolysis and the second current used in diaphragm electrolysis. In other words, the current control unit 60 controls the chemical reactions that occur in non-diaphragm electrolysis and diaphragm electrolysis by controlling the first current and the second current.

[0078] [Dehumidification of air in the dehumidifying air passage 12] The following explanation of the airflow in the dehumidifying air passage 12 will be given using Figure 1.

[0079] The intake port 10 draws air A1 from the indoor space R into the dehumidifying air passage 12. Air A1 is the air to be dehumidified and supplied with hypochlorous acid gas, and it contains moisture and large particles such as dust and dirt.

[0080] Air A1 passes through filter 14, where larger particles such as dust and dirt are removed, resulting in air A2. Air A2 is the air that is targeted for dehumidification and supply of hypochlorous acid gas, and it is air that contains moisture.

[0081] The dehumidifying air passage 12 branches off from the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 upstream of the dehumidifying unit 20. Therefore, a portion of the air A2 flowing through the dehumidifying air passage 12 flows into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 as air B1, and hypochlorous acid gas is supplied. The supply of hypochlorous acid gas to the air in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 will be described later.

[0082] The air A2 flowing through the dehumidifying air passage 12 is introduced into the dehumidifying unit 20, with the exception of a portion that flows into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0083] In the dehumidification unit 20, the air A2 is cooled by coming into contact with the cooled evaporator 21. This causes the moisture contained in the air to condense, thus dehumidifying it.

[0084] The air that has passed through the evaporator 21, been dehumidified and cooled, is then heated and released as heat from the condenser 23.

[0085] As a result, the air A2 introduced into the dehumidification unit 20 is dehumidified and temperature-controlled as it circulates inside the dehumidification unit 20, and then circulates through the dehumidification air passage 12 as air A3.

[0086] The dehumidifying air passage 12 merges with the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 downstream of the dehumidifying unit 20. In other words, the dehumidified air A3 merges with the air B7 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas, which will be described later. As a result, the dehumidified air A3 is mixed with the air B7 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas to become air A4. That is, air A4 is air that has undergone dehumidification and the supply of hypochlorous acid gas.

[0087] The dehumidified air A4, which has been supplied with hypochlorous acid gas, is blown out from the outlet 11 into the indoor space R as air A5. In this way, the indoor space R in which the dehumidifier 1 is installed is dehumidified and supplied with hypochlorous acid gas, removing bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, etc. contained in the air.

[0088] [Supply of hypochlorous acid gas to the air in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13] The airflow in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 will be explained below using Figures 1 and 2.

[0089] Air A2 circulating through the dehumidifying air passage 12 partially flows into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 and circulates through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 as air B1. Air B1 is the air to which hypochlorous acid gas is supplied and is air containing moisture.

[0090] At least a portion (air B2) of the air B1 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 is introduced into the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30.

[0091] In the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, air B2 is introduced from the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. The air flows through the electrolytic cell 40 and is released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 along with hypochlorous acid in a purification operation. The air passage D shown by the white arrows and upward-sloping arrows in Figure 2 is a series of paths through which air B2 supplied from the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 to the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 flows through the electrolytic cell 40 and is released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 as air B5 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas. In other words, the air passage D shows the flow of air from the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, the air supply unit 43, the blower pipe 44, the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 40, the internal space on the electrolytic cell side 45, the cooling unit 46a, the outlet 47, and to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0092] More specifically, in the airflow channel D, as shown in Figure 1, the hypochlorous acid gas is released as bubbles B3 into the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 40 via the air supply section 43 and the air blower 44 from the hypochlorous acid gas supply airflow channel 13. In other words, bubbles B3 are generated by bubbling the first aqueous solution L1 with air B2 introduced from the hypochlorous acid gas supply airflow channel 13. The bubbles B3 and the hypochlorous acid generated by the membraneless electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 are mixed to form air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid.

[0093] Here, the hypochlorous acid produced by the non-diaphragm electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 includes both hypochlorous acid dissolved in the first aqueous solution L1 and hypochlorous acid gas that has volatilized and gasified into the internal space 45 on the electrolytic cell side. The hypochlorous acid dissolved in the first aqueous solution L1 is mixed with bubbles B3 and released as air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas from the outlet 47 through the cooling unit 46a to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. The hypochlorous acid gas that has volatilized and gasified into the internal space 45 on the electrolytic cell side is mixed with bubbles B3 mixed with hypochlorous acid and released as air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid from the outlet 47 through the cooling unit 46a to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. In this way, the air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid has its moisture recovered and is released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 together with the hypochlorous acid gas, becoming air B5.

[0094] As the air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid flows through the cooling unit 46a, the moisture contained in the hypochlorous acid gas is recovered into the electrolytic cell 40. Along with the recovery of this moisture by the cooling unit 46a, the electrolyte components contained in the moisture are also recovered into the electrolytic cell 40. Therefore, hypochlorous acid gas with reduced electrolyte content can be supplied to the air B5.

[0095] The electrolyte components include metal ions. More specifically, these metal ions are sodium ions, potassium ions, calcium ions, or magnesium ions. In other words, as the air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid flows through the cooling unit 46a, the moisture contained in the hypochlorous acid gas is recovered into the electrolytic cell 40. Along with the recovery of this moisture by the cooling unit 46a, metal ions such as sodium ions contained in the moisture in the hypochlorous acid gas are also recovered into the electrolytic cell 40. Therefore, hypochlorous acid gas with reduced metal ion content can be supplied to the air B5.

[0096] By generating bubbles B3 in the first aqueous solution L1 through bubbling, the bubbles B3 rise towards the liquid surface S1 due to buoyancy, and as a result, hypochlorous acid and bubbles B3 come into gas-liquid contact, allowing the bubbles B3 to absorb hypochlorous acid. In other words, compared to gas-liquid contact between air and the liquid surface S1 of the first aqueous solution L1, gas-liquid contact by generating bubbles B3 in the first aqueous solution L1 through bubbling allows bubbles B3 to absorb more hypochlorous acid.

[0097] The electrolytic cell 40 may further include a water level detection unit 48. The water level detection unit 48 detects the position of the liquid level S1 in the first aqueous solution L1. The water level detection unit 48 is, for example, a water level sensor. The water level detection unit 48 is positioned at least above (on the positive z-axis side of) the upper ends (the portions on the positive z-axis side of) the electrolytic cell side anode 41 and the electrolytic cell side cathode 42.

[0098] If the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is equipped with a water level detection unit 48, the water recovery unit 46 recovers moisture from the air B4 supplied with hypochlorous acid based on the liquid level S1 position detected by the water level detection unit 48 and supplies water to the electrolytic cell 40. More specifically, the water recovery unit 46 supplies water to the electrolytic cell 40 so that it does not fall below the upper ends (the positive z-axis side portion) of the electrolytic cell-side anode 41 and electrolytic cell-side cathode 42. Furthermore, the water recovery unit 46 supplies water to the electrolytic cell 40 so that it does not fall below the upper end (the positive z-axis side portion) of the air blower pipe 44 connected to the electrolytic cell 40.

[0099] If the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is equipped with a water recovery unit 46 and a water level detection unit 48, the electrolytic cell-side anode 41 and the electrolytic cell-side cathode 42 can remain immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. Therefore, exposure of the electrolytic cell-side anode 41 and the electrolytic cell-side cathode 42 to air as the first aqueous solution L1 decreases can be suppressed, and the electrolysis efficiency of membrane-free electrolysis can be maintained. The supply tank 50 may also be equipped with a water recovery unit and a water level detection unit similar to those of the electrolytic cell 40.

[0100] The air B5 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas is discharged from the outlet 47 to the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, which is outside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, and heat is dissipated by contact with the heat dissipation unit 46b located downstream of the cooling unit 46a, becoming air B6.

[0101] Air B6 is supplied with hypochlorous acid gas and circulates through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 as temperature-controlled air B7.

[0102] The hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 merges with the dehumidification air passage 12 downstream of the dehumidification unit 20. In other words, the air B7 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas merges with the dehumidified air A3. Therefore, the air B7 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas mixes with the dehumidified air A3 to become air A4. That is, air A4 is air that has undergone dehumidification and the supply of hypochlorous acid gas.

[0103] As described above, the dehumidified air A4, which has been treated with hypochlorous acid gas, is blown out from the outlet 11 into the indoor space R, becoming air A5. In this way, the indoor space R in which the dehumidifier 1 is installed is dehumidified, and hypochlorous acid gas is supplied, removing bacteria, fungi, viruses, and odors contained in the air. In other words, the indoor space R is purified.

[0104] As described above, the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1 can provide the following effects.

[0105] (1) The dehumidifier 1 includes an intake port 10 that draws in air from the indoor space R, a dehumidifying air passage 12 through which the air drawn in from the intake port 10 (air A1) flows, a dehumidifying unit 20 located in the dehumidifying air passage 12 that dehumidifies the air (air A2) flowing through the dehumidifying air passage 12, and a branch line that branches off from the upstream side of the dehumidifying unit 20 in the dehumidifying air passage 12, through which a portion of the air (air B1) before it flows through the dehumidifying unit 20 flows, and the dehumidifying unit in the dehumidifying air passage 12 The system includes a hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 that merges downstream of 20, a hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 positioned in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 to supply hypochlorous acid gas to the air (air B2) flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, and an outlet 11 where the air (air A3) that has flowed through the dehumidifying air passage 12 and the air (air B7) that has flowed through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 are mixed and blown into the indoor space R. The hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is equipped with a water recovery unit 46 that recovers moisture contained in the air, and at least a portion of the air (air B2) flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 flows inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit 46 and released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 together with the hypochlorous acid gas.

[0106] In this way, the air A1 drawn in from the indoor space R flows into the dehumidifying air passage 12 and the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, respectively. The air A2 that flows into the dehumidifying air passage 12 is dehumidified by circulating inside the dehumidifying unit 20 and becomes air A3. The air B1 that flows into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 circulates inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30. Then, hypochlorous Moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit 46 installed in the acid gas supply unit 30 and released together with hypochlorous acid gas as air B5 (ultimately air B7). Then, the air A3 that has flowed through the dehumidification air passage 12 and the air B7 that has flowed through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 are mixed and blown into the indoor space R as air A5. In this way, the air A1 that has flowed through the inside of the dehumidifier 1 is dehumidified and hypochlorous acid gas is supplied. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dehumidifier 1 that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when hypochlorous acid is vaporized and supplied.

[0107] (2) In the dehumidifier 1, the water recovery unit 46 is a Peltier element comprising a cooling unit 46a that cools the circulating air and a heat dissipation unit 46b that dissipates heat into the circulating air. The air (air B4) supplied with hypochlorous acid gas circulates inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, and moisture is recovered when it comes into contact with the cooling unit 46a.

[0108] In this way, the air B4 that has been supplied with hypochlorous acid after circulating inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 comes into contact with the cooling unit 46a, where moisture is recovered, and it becomes air B5 (finally air B7). As a result, the hypochlorous acid gas from which moisture has been recovered is released from the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30. In other words, hypochlorous acid gas can be supplied to the air A1 that has circulated inside the dehumidifier 1. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dehumidifier 1 that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when supplying vaporized hypochlorous acid.

[0109] (3) In the dehumidifier 1, the heat dissipation unit 46b is located downstream of the cooling unit 46a in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, and dissipates heat by coming into contact with the air (air B5) that has been cooled by flowing through the cooling unit 46a.

[0110] In this manner, the heat dissipation section 46b is positioned downstream of the cooling section 46a in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, and dissipates heat by coming into contact with the air B4 that has been cooled by flowing through the cooling section 46a. As a result, the air B4 is temperature-controlled, and the cooling of the air in the indoor space R by flowing through the dehumidifier 1 can be suppressed. Therefore, a dehumidifier 1 can be provided that can dehumidify and supply hypochlorous acid without cooling the air A1 in the indoor space R.

[0111] (4) In the dehumidifier 1, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 includes an electrolytic cell 40 for storing a first aqueous solution L1 containing chloride ions and generating hypochlorous acid by electrolyzing the first aqueous solution L1, a supply tank 50 for storing a second aqueous solution L2 containing chloride ions at a higher concentration than the first aqueous solution L1 and supplying chloride ions to the first aqueous solution L1, and an anion exchange membrane 54 that connects the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50 in a way that allows anions to pass through based on a voltage applied between the electrolytic cell 40 and the supply tank 50. At least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 flows inside the electrolytic cell 40, moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit 46 and released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 together with the hypochlorous acid gas.

[0112] In this manner, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 generates hypochlorous acid in the electrolytic cell 40, and the chloride ions that decrease with the generation of hypochlorous acid are supplied from the supply tank 50 to the electrolytic cell 40 via the anion exchange membrane 54. In addition, at least a portion of the air B1 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 flows inside the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, where moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit 46 and released together with the hypochlorous acid gas. As a result, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 can stably generate a desired amount of hypochlorous acid gas over a long period of time without supplying an aqueous solution containing chloride ions from the outside. In other words, hypochlorous acid gas can be stably supplied to the air A1 flowing inside the dehumidifier 1. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dehumidifier 1 that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when hypochlorous acid is vaporized and supplied.

[0113] <Embodiment 2> The dehumidifier 1a according to Embodiment 2 differs from the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1 in the arrangement of the heat dissipation section 46b of the water recovery section installed in the hypochlorous acid gas supply section 30. The arrangement of the heat dissipation section 46b will be explained below with reference to Figure 3. The configuration other than the arrangement of the heat dissipation section 46b is the same as in Embodiment 1, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0114] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a dehumidifier 1a according to Embodiment 2. In the dehumidifier 1a according to Embodiment 2, as shown in Figure 3, the dehumidification unit 20 is composed of a refrigerant circuit and is formed by an evaporator 21, an expander 22, a condenser 23, a compressor 24, and refrigerant pipes 25 connecting them. In addition, a water recovery unit 46 is installed in the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30. The water recovery unit 46 is a Peltier element and comprises a cooling unit 46a and a heat dissipation unit 46b.

[0115] In this embodiment, the heat dissipation unit 46b is located downstream of the evaporator 21 in the dehumidifying air passage 12.

[0116] When the dehumidification unit 20 has a condenser 23 located downstream of the evaporator 21 in the dehumidification air passage 12, the heat dissipation unit 46b is located downstream of the evaporator 21 and upstream of the condenser 23 in the dehumidification air passage 12.

[0117] In this way, the heat dissipation section 46b can efficiently dissipate heat by coming into contact with the air A2a that has been cooled by flowing through the evaporator 21.

[0118] The air A2 flowing through the dehumidifying air passage 12 is introduced into the dehumidifying unit 20. It is cooled by coming into contact with the cooled evaporator 21. As a result, moisture contained in the air condenses and is dehumidified.

[0119] The air A2a, which has passed through the evaporator 21, been dehumidified and cooled, is then released as heat from the heated heat dissipation section 46b. Furthermore, it is released as heat from the heated condenser 23.

[0120] As a result, the air A2 introduced into the dehumidification unit 20 is dehumidified and heated as it circulates inside the dehumidification unit 20, and then circulates through the dehumidification air passage 12 as air A3.

[0121] Air A3 circulating through the dehumidifying air passage 12 merges with air B7 circulating through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. Then, air A3 and air B7 are mixed to form air A4, which then circulates through the dehumidifying air passage 12.

[0122] Here, since the heat dissipation section 46b is not located in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13, the air B7 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 is the same air B5 that has passed through the cooling section 46a. In other words, the air B7 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 is air that has been cooled and had its moisture recovered after being supplied with hypochlorous acid gas.

[0123] The heated air A3 circulating through the dehumidifying air passage 12 is conditioned by merging with the cooled air B7 circulating through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13.

[0124] Then, the dehumidified air A3 and the air B7 supplied with hypochlorous acid gas are mixed to form air A4, which is then blown out from the outlet 11 into the indoor space R as air A5. In this way, the indoor space R in which the dehumidifier 1 is installed is dehumidified, and hypochlorous acid gas is supplied, removing bacteria, fungi, viruses, and odors contained in the air.

[0125] In addition to the effects described above in (1), the dehumidifier 1a according to Embodiment 2 provides the following benefits: You can enjoy the following effects.

[0126] (5) In the dehumidifier 1a, the dehumidifier section 20 dehumidifies the air (air A2a) circulating inside it through a refrigerant circuit that includes a compressor 24 for compressing the refrigerant, a condenser 23 for condensing the refrigerant, an expander 22 for expanding the refrigerant, and an evaporator 21 for evaporating the refrigerant. The heat dissipation section 46b is located downstream of the evaporator 21 in the dehumidifier air passage 12 and dissipates heat by coming into contact with the air (air A2a) that has been cooled by circulating through the evaporator 21.

[0127] In this way, the heat dissipation section 46b of the water recovery section 46 is positioned downstream of the evaporator 21 in the dehumidifying air passage 12, and dissipates heat by coming into contact with the cooled air (air A2a) that flows through the evaporator 21. As a result, the heat dissipation section 46b can dissipate heat more efficiently, and the cooling capacity of the cooling section 46a of the water recovery section 46 can be further improved. In other words, air (air B5) containing hypochlorous acid gas from which moisture has been more reliably recovered is released from the hypochlorous acid gas supply section 30. This means that hypochlorous acid gas can be supplied to the air A1 that flows through the inside of the dehumidifier 1a. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dehumidifier 1a that can suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when hypochlorous acid is vaporized and supplied.

[0128] Although the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, it can be easily inferred that the present invention is not limited in any way to the above embodiments, and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0129] Below, we will describe two modified examples of the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2.

[0130] <Example 1> In the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, all (entire amount) of the air B1 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 may be introduced as air B2. That is, the air B1 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 is the same as the air B2 flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13. For example, the dehumidifying air passage 12 and the electrolytic cell 40 may be connected by a tubular member, and a portion of the air A2 flowing through the dehumidifying air passage 12 may be directly supplied into the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 40.

[0131] The dehumidifier according to Modification 1 offers the following benefits.

[0132] In the dehumidifier according to Modification 1, all of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 is introduced into the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30. Then, the water in the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 is dehydrated by the water recovery unit 46 and released together with the hypochlorous acid gas. In other words, all of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage 13 has its water recovered by the water recovery unit 46. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dehumidifier that can further suppress the decrease in dehumidification performance that occurs when hypochlorous acid is vaporized and supplied.

[0133] <Modification 2> In the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30, an electrolytic cell 40 and a supply tank 50 may be omitted, and a storage tank (not shown) may be used instead. For example, hypochlorous acid gas may be released from the outlet 47 by circulating air through the hypochlorous acid water or sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution stored in the storage tank by bubbling. Alternatively, a gel-like material containing hypochlorous acid may be placed in the storage tank, and hypochlorous acid gas may be volatilized from the surface of the gel material by circulating air through the gel material and released from the outlet 47.

[0134] The dehumidifier according to Modification 2 offers the following benefits.

[0135] In the dehumidifier according to Modification 2, the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit 30 does not need to have the necessary components for electrolysis and chloride ion supply (electrolytic cell side anode 41, electrolytic cell side cathode 42, supply tank side cathode 51, anion exchange membrane 54, current control unit 60, wiring 61, wiring 62, wiring 63, etc.). Therefore, a smaller and less expensive dehumidifier can be provided. [Industrial applicability]

[0136] The dehumidifying device described herein is useful as a device for dehumidifying and disinfecting indoor spaces, as it can dehumidify while suppressing the decrease in dehumidifying performance that occurs when supplying vaporized hypochlorous acid. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0137] 1 Dehumidifier 1a Dehumidifier 10 Inlet 11 Air outlet 12 Dehumidifying air path 13. Hypochlorous acid gas supply airflow path 14 filters 15 Blower 20 Dehumidification section 21 Evaporator 22 Expander 23 Condenser 24 Compressor 25 Refrigerant pipes 30. Hypochlorous Acid Gas Supply Unit 40 Electrolytic cell 41 Electrolyzer side anode 42 Electrolytic cell side cathode 43 Air supply unit 44 Air pipe 45 Internal space on electrolytic cell side 46 Water Recovery Section 46a Cooling section 46b Heat dissipation part 47 Outlet 48 Water level detection unit 50 Supply tank 51 Supply tank side cathode 52 Supply tank side internal space 53 Outlet 60 Current control unit 61 Wiring 62 Wiring 63 Wiring A1 Air A2 Air A2a Air A3 Air A4 Air A5 Air B1 Air B2 Air B3 bubbles B4 Air B5 Air B6 Air B7 Air C cabinet D Airflow channel L1 1st aqueous solution L2 2nd aqueous solution R Interior Space S1 liquid level S2 liquid level

Claims

1. An intake vent that draws in air from the indoor space, A dehumidifying air passage through which the air drawn in from the aforementioned intake port flows, A dehumidifying unit is arranged in the dehumidifying air passage and dehumidifies the air flowing through the dehumidifying air passage, A hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage branches off from the upstream side of the dehumidifying section in the dehumidifying air passage, through which a portion of the air before it passes through the dehumidifying section flows, and which merges with the downstream side of the dehumidifying section in the dehumidifying air passage, A hypochlorous acid gas supply unit is located in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage and supplies hypochlorous acid gas to the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage. The system includes an outlet that mixes the air that has flowed through the dehumidifying air passage with the air that has flowed through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage and blows the mixture into the indoor space. The aforementioned hypochlorous acid gas supply unit is equipped with a water recovery unit that recovers moisture contained in the air. At least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage flows through the inside of the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit, moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit, and the air is released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage together with the hypochlorous acid gas. Dehumidifier.

2. The water recovery unit is a Peltier element comprising a cooling unit for cooling the circulating air and a heat dissipation unit for dissipating heat into the circulating air. The air that flows through the inside of the hypochlorous acid gas supply unit, and the air supplied with the hypochlorous acid gas, comes into contact with the cooling unit, thereby recovering moisture. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1.

3. The heat dissipation section is It is positioned downstream of the cooling section in the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage and dissipates heat by coming into contact with the air that has been cooled by flowing through the cooling section. The dehumidifying device according to claim 2.

4. The dehumidifying unit is The refrigerant circuit, which includes a compressor for compressing the refrigerant, a condenser for condensing the refrigerant, an expander for expanding the refrigerant, and an evaporator for evaporating the refrigerant, dehumidifies the air circulating inside. The heat dissipation section is It is positioned downstream of the evaporator in the dehumidifying air passage and dissipates heat by coming into contact with the air that has been cooled by flowing through the evaporator. The dehumidifying device according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned hypochlorous acid gas supply unit is An electrolytic cell for storing a first aqueous solution containing chloride ions and for generating hypochlorous acid by electrolyzing the first aqueous solution, A supply tank for storing a second aqueous solution containing a higher concentration of chloride ions than the first aqueous solution and for supplying the chloride ions to the first aqueous solution, The electrolytic cell and the supply tank are connected by an anion exchange membrane that allows anions to pass through based on a voltage applied between the electrolytic cell and the supply tank, At least a portion of the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage flows through the inside of the electrolytic cell, where moisture is recovered by the water recovery unit and released into the hypochlorous acid gas supply air passage together with the hypochlorous acid gas. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1.

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