Total heat exchanger and ventilation system

Abstract

Reduce air leakage. [Solution] The total heat exchanger (100) comprises a plurality of first frames (110), a plurality of second frames (120), a plurality of partition membranes (130), and fixing members (140). The first frames (110) have a flow path (F) through which first air flows. The second frames (120) have a flow path (F) through which second air flows. The partition membranes (130) partition each first frame (110) and each second frame (120). The fixing members (140) fix the first frames (110) and the second frames (120). The plurality of first frames (110), the plurality of second frames (120), and the plurality of partition membranes (130) are stacked. The first frames (110) and the second frames (120) have fixed portions (118, 128). The fixed parts (118, 128) are fixed by the fixing member (140). The fixed parts (118, 128) are located on the outer periphery of the partition membrane (130).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to a total heat exchanger and a ventilation device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-097447) discloses a total heat exchanger including a plurality of flow path elements each having a sheet-like partition member having moisture permeability and a frame joined to the partition member to form an air flow path. In the total heat exchanger of Patent Document 1, the partition member and the frame are alternately stacked. In this laminate, the stacked flow path elements are fixed to each other by bolts passing through the flow path elements in the stacking direction and nuts attached to the bolts.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In the above Patent Document 1, it is necessary to form through-holes for passing bolts in the partition member. Through these through-holes, the air in the air flow path may leak.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The total heat exchanger according to the first aspect is a total heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the first air and the second air. The total heat exchanger includes a plurality of first frames, a plurality of second frames, a plurality of partition membranes, and a fixing member. The first frame has a flow path through which the first air flows. The second frame has a flow path through which the second air flows. The partition membrane partitions between each first frame and each second frame. The fixing member fixes the first frame and the second frame. The plurality of first frames, the plurality of second frames, and the plurality of partition membranes are laminated. The first frame and the second frame have a fixed portion. The fixed portion is fixed by the fixing member. The fixed portion is provided on the outer peripheral side of the partition membrane.

[0005] According to the total heat exchanger from the first perspective, a fixed portion is provided on the outer circumference of the partition membrane, which is fixed by a fixing member, so the fixing member does not penetrate the partition membrane. Therefore, through holes for passing the fixing member through the partition membrane can be omitted. Consequently, leakage of the first air flowing through the flow path of the first frame and the second air flowing through the flow path of the second frame can be reduced.

[0006] The total heat exchanger according to the second aspect is the total heat exchanger according to the first aspect, wherein the fixed part is provided on at least one of the side portion including the first air inlet, the side portion including the first air outlet, the side portion including the second air inlet, and the side portion including the second air outlet.

[0007] In the total heat exchanger from the second perspective, a fixed part, which is fixed by a fixing part, is provided on at least one of the four side sections, including the first air inlet, the first air outlet, the second air inlet, and the second air outlet. This makes it possible to further reduce leakage of at least one of the first air and the second air.

[0008] The total heat exchanger according to the third viewpoint is the total heat exchanger according to the second viewpoint, wherein the fixed portion is provided on the side portion including the first air inlet, the side portion including the first air outlet, the side portion including the second air inlet, and the side portion including the second air outlet.

[0009] In the third aspect of the total heat exchanger, fixed parts are provided on four side surfaces, including the first air inlet, first air outlet, second air inlet, and second air outlet, which are fixed by fixing members. This makes it possible to further reduce leakage of the first and second air.

[0010] The total heat exchanger relating to the fourth viewpoint is a total heat exchanger relating to either the first viewpoint or the third viewpoint, wherein the fixing member is inserted into the part to be fixed, thereby fixing the first frame and the second frame.

[0011] As in the total heat exchanger of the fourth aspect, the first frame and the second frame may have fixed portions for inserting fixing members.

[0012] The total heat exchanger relating to the fifth viewpoint is a total heat exchanger relating to any of the first viewpoints or the fourth viewpoint, wherein the fixing member holds the first frame and the second frame under pressure in the stacking direction.

[0013] In the fifth aspect of the total heat exchanger, the first and second frames are held in place by fixing members under pressure in the stacking direction, thereby improving the sealing performance between the first and second frames. As a result, leakage of the first air flowing through the flow path of the first frame and the second air flowing through the flow path of the second frame can be further reduced.

[0014] The total heat exchanger relating to the sixth viewpoint is a total heat exchanger relating to either the first viewpoint or the fifth viewpoint, wherein the first frame and the second frame are fixed together without the use of adhesive.

[0015] In the total heat exchanger described in the sixth perspective, no adhesive is used between the first and second frames. As a result, a significant problem arises with leakage of the first air flowing through the first frame's channel and the second air flowing through the second frame's channel. To address this problem, sealing performance can be improved by holding the first and second frames in place with pressure applied in the stacking direction using a fixing member.

[0016] The total heat exchanger according to the seventh aspect is a total heat exchanger according to the fifth or sixth aspect, wherein the fixing member has two engaging claws. The two engaging claws are provided at one end and the other end in the stacking direction. The distance between the two engaging claws is less than the self-weight thickness of the first frame, second frame, and partition membrane arranged between them.

[0017] In the total heat exchanger described in the seventh aspect, a laminate composed of multiple first frames, multiple second frames, and multiple partition membranes is held in place under pressure in the laminate direction by engaging claws of fixing members provided at one end and the other end in the laminate direction. As a result, the distance between the engaging claws at one end and the engaging claw at the other end becomes smaller than the self-weight thickness of the laminate placed between them.

[0018] The total heat exchanger relating to the eighth viewpoint is a total heat exchanger relating to either the fifth viewpoint or the eighth viewpoint, wherein the fixing member holds the first frame and the second frame under a pressure of 10 kPa or more.

[0019] In the total heat exchanger from the eighth perspective, the fixing member holds the laminate, which is composed of multiple first frames, multiple second frames, and multiple partition membranes, under a pressure of 10 kPa or more, thereby further improving the sealing performance between the first frames and the second frames.

[0020] The total heat exchanger according to the ninth aspect is a total heat exchanger according to either the first or eighth aspect, wherein the fixed member has an opening in at least one of the flow directions of the first air and the second air.

[0021] In the total heat exchanger of the ninth aspect, at least one of the first air and the second air can pass through the opening of the fixed member during operation. This prevents the fixed member from acting as resistance to the flow of at least one of the first air and the second air.

[0022] The total heat exchanger according to the 10th viewpoint is a total heat exchanger according to any of the 1st to 9th viewpoints, further comprising a top plate positioned above the first frame and the second frame. The top plate is fixed to a fixing member.

[0023] As in the total heat exchanger described in the tenth aspect, the fixing member may be fixed to the top plate.

[0024] A total heat exchanger according to the 11th viewpoint is a total heat exchanger according to either the 1st viewpoint or the 10th viewpoint, further comprising a bottom plate positioned below the first frame and the second frame. The bottom plate is fixed to a fixing member.

[0025] As in the total heat exchanger described in the 11th aspect, the fixing member may be fixed to the bottom plate.

[0026] The ventilation device according to the 12th aspect includes the total heat exchanger according to any one of the 1st to 11th aspects. In the total heat exchanger, supply air supplied from the outside to the inside as the first air is heat-exchanged with exhaust air discharged from the inside to the outside as the second air.

[0027] Since the ventilation device according to the 12th aspect includes the total heat exchanger according to any one of the 1st to 11th aspects, leakage of the first air and the second air can be reduced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram of a ventilation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a schematic diagram of a total heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view of a total heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the first frame, the second frame, and the partition film. [Figure 5] It is a plan view of the first frame. [Figure 6] It is a plan view of the second frame. [Figure 7] [[ID=3]]It is a cross-sectional view of the partition film. [Figure 8] In FIG. 3, the side plates are omitted, and the state where the guide portion of the fixing member is not removed is shown. [Figure 9] In FIG. 8, the state where the top plate is omitted is shown. [Figure 10] In FIG. 8, an enlarged view of one fixing member near the top plate is shown. [Figure 11] In FIGS. 8 and 9, an enlarged view of one fixing member near the bottom plate is shown.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0029] The total heat exchanger and the ventilation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0030] (1) Ventilation device Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a ventilation system equipped with a total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the ventilation system 1 is equipped with a total heat exchanger 100 and replaces the air inside the building. Here, the ventilation system 1 discharges the indoor air RA to the outdoor space of the building and supplies the outdoor air OA to the indoor space.

[0031] The ventilation system 1 comprises a total heat exchanger 100, a casing 2, a supply fan 3, and an exhaust fan 4.

[0032] The total heat exchanger 100 exchanges heat between the supply air SA, which is supplied from outside to inside as the first air, and the exhaust air EA, which is discharged from inside to outside as the second air. The total heat exchanger 100 will be described later.

[0033] Casing 2 houses the total heat exchanger 100. Casing 2 is provided with a first intake port 21, an air supply port 22, a second intake port 23, and an exhaust port 24. The first intake port 21 draws in outdoor air OA as the first air. The air supply port 22 supplies air SA as the first air to the indoor space. The second intake port 23 draws in indoor air RA as the second air. The exhaust port 24 discharges exhaust air EA as the second air to the outside.

[0034] Furthermore, an air supply passage 25 and an exhaust passage 26 are formed in the internal space of the casing 2. The air supply passage 25 has a first intake port 21 connected to one end and an air supply port 22 connected to the other end. The exhaust passage 26 has a second intake port 23 connected to one end and an exhaust port 24 connected to the other end. In the ventilation device 1, outdoor air flows into the room through the air supply passage 25, and indoor air flows outwards through the exhaust passage 26.

[0035] The supply air fan 3 is positioned downstream of the total heat exchanger 100 in the supply air passage 25. The supply air fan 3 generates a first airflow.

[0036] The exhaust fan 4 is positioned downstream of the total heat exchanger 100 in the exhaust passage 26. The exhaust fan 4 generates a second airflow.

[0037] (2) Total heat exchanger (2-1) Overall structure The total heat exchanger 100 is installed in the ventilation device 1. In Figure 1, the total heat exchanger 100 is positioned to traverse the supply air passage 25 and the exhaust air passage 26.

[0038] The total heat exchanger 100 simultaneously exchanges latent and sensible heat. Specifically, the total heat exchanger 100 exchanges sensible heat and latent heat (moisture) between the outdoor air supplied from outside to inside (supply air) and the indoor air discharged to outside (exhaust air).

[0039] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified external view of the total heat exchanger 100 in this embodiment. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the total heat exchanger 100, with most of the first frame 110 and second frame 120 and the partition membrane 130 omitted, which will be described later. In other words, Figure 3 is a perspective view of the total heat exchanger 100, showing the front first frame 110 and second frame 120, the central first frame 110 and second frame 120, and the rear first frame 110 and second frame 120. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the total heat exchanger 100 has a prism shape with polygonal end faces, and the total heat exchanger 100 in this embodiment has an octagonal prism shape.

[0040] In the following description, expressions indicating direction such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," and "back" are used as appropriate. Unless otherwise specified, these expressions follow the directions of the arrows drawn in Figures 2 and 3. These expressions for directions and positions are used for the convenience of explanation, and unless otherwise specified, the orientation and position of the total heat exchanger 100 and each component are not limited to the orientation and position of the expressions described. In this embodiment, the up and down direction is defined as the vertical direction.

[0041] The total heat exchanger 100 mainly comprises a top plate 101, a bottom plate 102, a side plate 103, a first frame 110, a second frame 120, a partition membrane 130, as shown in Figure 4, and a fixing member 140, as shown in Figure 3.

[0042] The first frame 110 and the second frame 120 overlap alternately. The first frame 110 forms a channel through which the first air flows. The second frame 120 forms a second channel through which the second air flows.

[0043] As shown in Figure 1, the first frame 110 includes a first inlet 112 through which the first air flows in, and a first outlet 113 through which the first air flows out. The first inlet 112 and the first outlet 113 communicate with the flow path through which the first air flows. The second frame 120 includes a second inlet 122 through which the second air flows in, and a second outlet 123 through which the second air flows out. The second inlet 122 and the second outlet 123 communicate with the flow path through which the second air flows.

[0044] Figure 4 is a diagram that shows the relationship between the first frame 110, the second frame 120, and the partition membrane 130, by separating them.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4, a partition membrane 130 is placed between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. Therefore, the partition membrane 130 is placed in contact with the first frame 110, the second frame 120 is placed in contact with the partition membrane 130, and the partition membrane 130 is placed in contact with the second frame 120. In this embodiment, the total heat exchanger 100 comprises a plurality of first frames 110, a plurality of second frames 120, and a plurality of partition membranes 130, thus forming a laminate composed of the first frames 110, the second frames 120, and the partition membranes 130. In other words, in the total heat exchanger 100, the plurality of first frames 110, a plurality of second frames 120, and a plurality of partition membranes 130 are stacked. The stacking direction here is the front-to-back direction.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, the top plate 101, bottom plate 102, and side plates 103 surround the laminate. The top plate 101 is positioned above the laminate (towards the front in Figure 3). The bottom plate 102 is positioned below the laminate (towards the rear in Figure 3). The side plates 103 are positioned to the sides of the portion of the laminate where the first inlet 112, first outlet 113, second inlet 122, and second outlet 123 are not formed.

[0047] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the total heat exchanger 100 has one side plate 103 as its mounting surface. Therefore, this side plate 103, one side of the top plate 101, and one side of the bottom plate 102 form the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100.

[0048] As shown in Figure 3, the fixing member 140 holds a plurality of first frames 110, a plurality of second frames 120, and a plurality of partition membranes 130.

[0049] (2-2) Detailed Configuration (2-2-1) First frame Figure 5 is a plan view showing the first frame 110 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the first frame 110 is a flow path element for the flow of the first air. The first frame 110 is, for example, a flat resin member formed by injection molding.

[0050] The first frame 110 includes a frame portion 111. The frame portion 111 forms the outer casing of the first frame 110. In plan view, the frame portion 111 has an octagonal shape. On one side (the lower left side in Figure 5), multiple first inlets 112 are formed for the first air to flow into the interior of the first frame 110. On the side opposite to the side where the first inlets 112 are formed (the upper right side in Figure 5), multiple first outlets 113 are formed for the first air to flow out of the first frame 110. The first inlets 112 and first outlets 113 are openings provided in the frame portion 111. On the frame portion 111, sides where the first inlets 112 and first outlets 113 are not formed (more specifically, sides including such sides) are closed to prevent the first air from leaking out of the first frame 110.

[0051] The first frame 110 has a first inlet A1, a first outlet B1, and a first opposing section C1. The first inlet A1 and the first opposing section C1 are connected, and the first opposing section C1 and the first outlet B1 are connected.

[0052] The first inlet A1 includes the first inlet 112. The flow direction of the first air flowing through the first inlet A1 and the flow direction of the second air flowing through the second outlet B2 of the second frame 120 intersect and are perpendicular in this case. The first inlet A1 is located at one end (the left end in Figure 5) and is trapezoidal in plan view.

[0053] The first outlet section B1 includes the first outlet 113. The flow direction of the first air flowing through the first outlet section B1 and the flow direction of the second air flowing through the second inlet section A2 of the second frame 120 intersect and are perpendicular in this case. The first outlet section B1 is located at the other end (the right end in Figure 5) and is trapezoidal in plan view.

[0054] The first opposing section C1 is located between the first inlet section A1 and the first outlet section B1. The direction of the first airflow through the first opposing section C1 and the direction of the second airflow through the second opposing section C2 of the second frame 120 are opposite and in this case, opposite. The first opposing section C1 is located in the center and is rectangular in plan view.

[0055] The first frame 110 further includes a plurality of first ribs 114 and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 115, 116, 117.

[0056] The first rib 114 forms a flow path F through which the first air flows. Multiple first ribs 114 are provided at the first inlet A1, the first outlet B1, and the first opposing section C1, respectively. The multiple first ribs 114 extend substantially parallel to each other. In Figure 5, the first ribs 114 located at the first inlet A1 and the first outlet B1 extend from the lower left to the upper right, while the first ribs 114 located at the first opposing section C1 extend in the left-right direction.

[0057] A first airflow channel F is formed between the frame portion 111 and the first rib 114, and between adjacent first ribs 114. Specifically, multiple channels F are formed by the first ribs 114 provided at the first inlet portion A1, the first opposing portion C1, and the first outlet portion B1, respectively. Each channel F consists of a channel FA at the first inlet portion A1, a channel FC at the first opposing portion C1, and a channel FB at the first outlet portion B1. The channels FA, FC, and FB are connected to each other, but with opposite directions. Specifically, channel FA extends to the upper right. Channel FC extends in the left-right direction. Channel FB extends to the upper right.

[0058] Furthermore, the length of each channel F is approximately the same. Specifically, in Figure 5, the lengths of the multiple channels FA in the first inlet section A1 increase from bottom to top. The lengths of the multiple channels FC in the first opposing section C1 are the same. The lengths of the multiple channels FB in the first outlet section B1 decrease from bottom to top.

[0059] The flow path FA located at the first inlet A1 and the flow path FB located at the first outlet B1 have a straight section and a non-straight section. The flow path FC of the first opposing section C1 consists of a straight section.

[0060] The straight sections extend in a straight line. The straight sections are the parts where the frame 111 and the first rib 114, or two first ribs 114, which constitute the flow path, extend linearly from each other. The straight sections in multiple flow paths FA, FB, and FC are parallel to each other.

[0061] Non-linear sections are formed near the first opposing section C1 in the flow path FA of the first inlet section A1 and the flow path FB of the first outlet section B1. Furthermore, non-linear sections are formed on the first inlet 112 side of the flow path FA located on the upper side of the first inlet section A1, and on the first outlet 113 side of the flow path FB located on the lower side of the first outlet section B1.

[0062] In Figure 5, for the uppermost and lowermost flow paths F, the flow path FA at the first inlet A1 branches at the first opposing section C1 to become two flow paths FC, which then merge at the first outlet section B1 to become one flow path FB. The other flow paths F do not branch and consist of one flow path FA, FB, and FC. Thus, in this embodiment, the flow path FC formed by the frame section 111 and the first rib 114 branches midway, while the flow path FC formed by the first ribs 114 do not branch.

[0063] Multiple flow paths F include a first flow path F1 and a second flow path F2. The first flow path F1 has a straight section of a first length at the first inlet A1. The second flow path F2 has a straight section of a second length that is shorter than the first length at the first inlet A1. At the first inlet A1, the width WA1 of the straight section in the first flow path F1 is greater than the width WA2 of the straight section in the second flow path F2. Here, the width WA1 of the straight section in the first flow path F1 is 1.1 times or more the width WA2 of the straight section in the second flow path F2. There is no particular upper limit, but for example, the width WA1 of the straight section in the first flow path F1 is 2.0 times or less the width WA2 of the straight section in the second flow path F2.

[0064] In the first inlet A1, the first rib 114 forming the first flow path F1 is bent from the first inlet 112 to widen the width of the first flow path F1. Here, the first flow path F1 widens on the first inlet 112 side of the first air. In this embodiment, the two first ribs 114 forming the first flow path F1 are bent to widen from the first inlet 112.

[0065] On the other hand, the first rib 114 that forms the second channel F2 extends straight from the first inlet 112 to maintain a constant width for the second channel F2.

[0066] Here, in the first inlet A1, the width W1 of the first air inlet 112 in the first flow path F1 is the same as the width W2 of the first air inlet 112 in the second flow path F2. "The widths of the first inlets 112 are the same" includes cases where the numerical values ​​are exactly the same and cases where the numerical values ​​are considered to be substantially the same. Cases where the numerical values ​​are considered to be substantially the same include, for example, when the width W1 of the first inlet 112 in the first flow path F1 is within the range of 95% to 105% of the width W2 of the first inlet 112 in the second flow path F2.

[0067] Furthermore, the channel height (depth) of the first channel F1 and the second channel F2 are the same. In addition, the opening area (channel height × width) of the first inlet 112 of the first air in the first channel F1 is the same as the opening area of ​​the first inlet 112 of the first air in the second channel F2.

[0068] In this embodiment, the first channel F1 is the second longest in length at the first inlet A1, and the second channel F2 is of medium length at the first inlet A1 (the fifth longest in Figure 5).

[0069] In the first opposing section C1, the length of the straight section of the first flow path FC1 is the same as the length of the straight section of the second flow path FC2. Also, in the first opposing section C1, the width WC1 of the first flow path FC1 is the same as the width WC2 of the second flow path FC2.

[0070] At the first outlet section B1, the length of the straight section of the first channel FB1 is shorter than the length of the straight section of the second channel FB2. Also, at the first outlet section B1, the width WB1 of the straight section of the first channel F1 is the same as the width WB2 of the straight section of the second channel F2.

[0071] Furthermore, in the first flow path F1, the width WC1 of the first opposing section C1 is greater than the width WA1 of the straight section in the first inlet section A1. Also, in the first flow path F1, the width WC1 of the first opposing section C1 is greater than the width WB1 of the straight section in the first outlet section B1.

[0072] Furthermore, in the second flow path F2, the width WC2 of the first opposing section C is greater than the width WA2 of the straight section in the first inlet section A1. Also, in the second flow path F2, the width WC2 of the first opposing section C1 is greater than the width WB2 of the straight section in the first outlet section B1.

[0073] In the first flow path F1, the ratio of the width of the straight section of the first inlet A1 to the width of the first opposing section C1 WC1 (WA1 / WC1) is greater than the ratio of the width of the straight section WA2 of the first inlet A1 to the width WC2 of the first opposing section C1 in the second flow path F2 (WA2 / WC2). Also, the ratio of the width WC of the straight section of the first outlet B1 to the width WC1 of the first opposing section C1 in the first flow path F1 (WB1 / WC1) is the same as the ratio of the width WB2 of the straight section of the first outlet B1 to the width WC2 of the first opposing section C1 in the second flow path FB2 (WB2 / WC2).

[0074] Furthermore, the multiple flow channels F include a third flow channel F3 and a fourth flow channel F4. In the first outlet section B1, the third flow channel F3 has a straight section of a third length. The fourth flow channel F4 has a straight section of a fourth length which is shorter than the third length. In the first outlet section B1, the width WB3 of the straight section in the third flow channel F3 is greater than the width WB4 of the straight section in the fourth flow channel F4. Here, in the first outlet section B1, the width WB3 of the straight section in the third flow channel F3 is 1.1 times or more the width WB4 of the straight section in the fourth flow channel F4.

[0075] In the first outlet section B1, the first rib 114 forming the third flow path F3 is bent from the first outlet 113 toward the first opposing section C1 so as to widen the width of the third flow path F3. Here, the third flow path F3 widens on the first outlet 113 side of the first air. In this embodiment, the two first ribs 114 forming the third flow path F3 are bent so as to widen from the first outlet 113.

[0076] On the other hand, the first rib 114, which forms the fourth channel F4, extends straight from the first outlet 113 to maintain a constant width for the fourth channel F4.

[0077] Here, in the first outlet section B1, the width W3 of the first outlet 113 of the first air in the third flow path F3 is the same as the width W4 of the first outlet 113 of the first air in the fourth flow path F4. "The widths of the first outlets 113 are the same" includes cases where the values ​​are exactly the same and cases where the values ​​are considered to be substantially the same. Cases where the values ​​are considered to be substantially the same include, for example, when the width W3 of the first outlet 113 in the third flow path F3 is within the range of 95% to 105% of the width W4 of the first outlet 113 in the fourth flow path F4.

[0078] Furthermore, the opening area of ​​the first outlet 113 for the first air in the third flow path F3 is the same as the opening area of ​​the first outlet 113 for the first air in the fourth flow path F4.

[0079] In this embodiment, the third channel F3 is the second longest in length at the first outlet B1, and the fourth channel F4 is of medium length at the first outlet B1 (the fifth longest in Figure 5).

[0080] In the first opposing section C1, the length of the straight section of the third flow path FC3 is the same as the length of the straight section of the fourth flow path FC4. Also, in the first opposing section C1, the width WC3 of the third flow path F3 is the same as the width WC4 of the fourth flow path F4.

[0081] Furthermore, in the third flow path F3, the width WC3 of the first opposing section C1 is greater than the width WB3 of the straight section in the first outlet section B1. Also, in the third flow path F3, the width WC3 of the first opposing section C1 is greater than the width WA3 of the straight section in the first inlet section A1.

[0082] In the third flow path F3, the ratio of the width of the straight section of the first outlet B1 to the width of the first opposing section C1 WC3 (WB3 / WC3) is greater than the ratio of the width of the straight section of the first outlet B1 WB4 to the width of the first opposing section C1 WC4 in the fourth flow path F4 (WB4 / WC4).

[0083] The first reinforcing rib 115 is positioned to intersect the first flow path FA1 at the first inlet A1. Specifically, the first reinforcing rib 115 is positioned to intersect a plurality of relatively long flow paths F at the first inlet A1. Here, at the first inlet A1, the first reinforcing rib 115 is positioned perpendicular to the first flow path FA1 and the second flow path FA2. The first reinforcing rib 115 is also connected to the frame portion 111.

[0084] The second reinforcing rib 116 is positioned to intersect the third flow channel FB3 at the first outlet section B1. Specifically, the second reinforcing rib 116 is positioned to intersect a plurality of relatively long flow channels F at the first outlet section B1. Here, at the first outlet section B1, the second reinforcing rib 116 is positioned perpendicular to the third flow channel FB3 and the fourth flow channel FB4.

[0085] The third reinforcing rib 117 is positioned in the first opposing section C1 so as to intersect with the first flow path FC1 and the third flow path FC3. Specifically, the third reinforcing rib 117 is positioned so as to intersect with all of the flow paths F. Here, the three third reinforcing ribs 117 are positioned so as to extend vertically at one end, the other end, and the center of the first opposing section C1.

[0086] The first rib 114 and the reinforcing ribs 115, 116, and 117 intersect. Here, the reinforcing ribs 115, 116, and 117 are arranged perpendicular to the first rib 114. The height of the reinforcing ribs 115, 116, and 117 is lower than the height of the first rib 114, preferably less than or equal to half the height of the first rib 114. Note that multiple first ribs 114 have approximately the same height.

[0087] The first frame 110 further has a fixed portion 118 which is fixed by a fixing member 140. The fixed portion 118 has an opening 119 through which the fixing member 140 passes. The fixed portion 118 is provided on the outer periphery side of the partition membrane 130. In Figure 5, the fixed portion 118 is provided so as to protrude outward from the long side at the long side where the first inlet 112 is not formed at the first inlet A1 and at the long side where the first outlet 113 is not formed at the first outlet B1.

[0088] In the first frame 110, the lowest flow path FL is inclined with respect to the lowest surface of the total heat exchanger 100. Here, "the lowest flow path FL" includes the flow path FC located in the first opposing section C1. In this embodiment, "the lowest flow path FL" is the lowest flow path in the flow path F formed by the frame 111 and the first rib 114. In other words, "the lowest flow path FL" includes the flow path formed by the lowest edge of the frame 111 and the first rib 114. In this embodiment, "downward" refers to downward in the vertical direction.

[0089] The lowest flow path FL is inclined downward toward the first inlet 112 side or the first outlet 113 side of the first air flowing through flow path FL. The inclination angle is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.5° or more, and preferably exceeds 1°. The upper limit of the inclination angle is not limited, but is, for example, 5°.

[0090] Here, condensed water is discharged from an opening in the first frame 110. The opening in the first frame 110 is either the first inlet 112 or the first outlet 113. Therefore, the condensed water is discharged from the first inlet 112 or the first outlet 113, which is located lower down. Here, since the first inlet 112 is located lower than the first outlet 113, the condensed water is discharged from the lowest first inlet 112. Thus, in this embodiment, the lowest flow path FL is inclined downward toward the first inlet 112 side (left side in Figure 5) of the first air flowing through the flow path FL.

[0091] Furthermore, at the lowest edge of the first frame 110, the height H1 at one end where condensation water is discharged is smaller than the height H2 at the other end. Specifically, at the lowest edge of the frame 111, the vertical height H1 at one end (the left end in Figure 5) is smaller than the vertical height H2 at the other end (the right end in Figure 5). Here, at the lowest edge of the frame 111, the height gradually decreases from right to left.

[0092] In this embodiment, as described above, the end from which condensation water is discharged is the first inlet 112. Therefore, at the lowest edge of the first frame 110, the height H1 at the end on the first inlet 112 side is smaller than the height H2 at the other end on the first outlet 113 side.

[0093] Furthermore, at the top edge of the first frame, the height H3 at one end is greater than the height H4 at the other end. Specifically, at the top edge of the frame 111, the vertical height H3 at one end (the left end in Figure 5) is greater than the vertical height H4 at the other end (the right end in Figure 5). Here, at the top edge of the frame 111, the height gradually increases from right to left.

[0094] Therefore, the uppermost flow path FH is inclined with respect to the lowest surface of the total heat exchanger 100. In Figure 5, the uppermost flow path FH is inclined upward toward the outlet side of the first air flowing through the flow path.

[0095] Thus, in this embodiment, the uppermost flow path FH and the lowermost flow path FL are inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100, while the other flow paths FC (including the central part in the vertical direction) are parallel to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100. In addition, in the first frame, multiple flow paths FC located below, including the lowest flow path FL, and multiple flow paths FC located above, including the uppermost flow path FH, may be inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger. In this case, the flow paths FC in the central part in the vertical direction of the first opposing section C1 are parallel to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100.

[0096] Furthermore, at least one of the lowest flow paths FL in the multiple first frames 110 is inclined with respect to the bottom surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100. The lowest flow paths FL in some of the first frames 110 do not need to be inclined with respect to the bottom surface 104, but it is preferable that the lowest flow paths FL in all of the first frames 110 are inclined with respect to the bottom surface 104.

[0097] (2-2-2) Second frame Figure 6 is a plan view showing the second frame 120 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the second frame 120 is a flow path element for the flow of second air. The second frame 120 is, for example, a flat resin member formed by injection molding.

[0098] In this embodiment, the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 are point-symmetrical. The second frame 120 has the same shape as the first frame 110, but is arranged with its front and back sides reversed. Specifically, the back side opposite to the front surface of the first frame 110 shown in Figure 5 is the front surface of the second frame 120 shown in Figure 6. Therefore, the configuration of the second frame 120 is the same as that of the first frame 110, and the key points of each part will be explained below.

[0099] The second frame 120 includes a frame portion 121. The frame portion 121 forms the outer casing of the second frame 120. In plan view, the frame portion 121 has an octagonal shape. On one side of this frame (the lower right side in Figure 6), multiple second inlets 122 are formed for the second air to flow into the interior of the second frame 120. On the side opposite to the side where the second inlets 122 are formed (the upper left side in Figure 6), multiple second outlets 123 are formed for the second air to flow out of the second frame 120. The second inlets 122 and second outlets 123 are openings provided in the frame portion 121. On the sides of the frame portion 121 where the second inlets 122 and second outlets 123 are not formed (more specifically, the sides including those sides), the sides are closed to prevent the second air from leaking out of the second frame 120.

[0100] The second frame 120 has a second inlet A2, a second outlet B2, and a second opposing section C2. The second inlet A2 and the second opposing section C2 are connected, and the second opposing section C2 and the second outlet B2 are connected.

[0101] The second entrance section A2 includes the second entrance 122. The second entrance section A2 is located at the other end (the right end in Figure 6) and is trapezoidal in plan view.

[0102] The second exit section B2 includes the second exit 123. The second exit section B2 is located at one end (the left end in Figure 6) and is trapezoidal in plan view.

[0103] The second opposing section C2 is located between the second entrance section A2 and the second exit section B2. The second opposing section C2 is located in the central part and is rectangular in plan view.

[0104] The second frame 120 includes a plurality of second ribs 124 and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 125, 126, 127.

[0105] The second rib 124 forms a passage F through which the second air flows. Multiple second ribs 124 are provided at the second inlet A2, the second outlet B2, and the second opposing section C2, respectively. In Figure 6, the second ribs 124 located at the second inlet A2 and the second outlet B2 extend from the bottom to the upper left, while the second ribs 124 located at the second opposing section C2 extend in the left-right direction.

[0106] A second air passage F is formed between the frame portion 121 and the second rib 124, and between adjacent second ribs 124. Each passage F consists of a passage FA at the second inlet portion A2, a passage FC at the second opposing portion C2, and a passage FB at the second outlet portion B2. The passage FA extends to the upper left, the passage FC extends in the left-right direction, and the passage FB extends to the upper left.

[0107] The flow path FA located at the second inlet A2 and the flow path FB located at the second outlet B2 have a straight section and a non-straight section. The flow path FC of the second opposing section C2 consists of a straight section.

[0108] Multiple flow paths F each have a first flow path F1 having a straight section of a first length, and a second flow path F2 having a straight section of a second length shorter than the first length. At the second inlet A2, the width WA1 of the straight section in the first flow path F1 is greater than the width WA2 of the straight section in the second flow path F2.

[0109] At the second inlet A2, the second rib 124 forming the first flow path F1 is bent from the second inlet 122 to widen the width of the first flow path F1. On the other hand, the second rib 124 forming the second flow path F2 extends straight from the second inlet 122 to maintain a constant width for the second flow path F2.

[0110] Here, in the second inlet A2, the width W1 of the second air inlet 122 in the first flow path F1 is the same as the width W2 of the second air inlet 122 in the second flow path F2. "The widths of the second inlets 122 are the same" includes cases where the values ​​are exactly the same and cases where the values ​​are considered to be substantially the same. Cases where the values ​​are considered to be substantially the same include, for example, when the width W1 of the second inlet 122 in the first flow path F1 is within the range of 95% to 105% of the width W2 of the second inlet 122 in the second flow path F2.

[0111] The ratio of the width of the straight section of the second inlet A2 to the width WC1 of the second opposing section C2 in the first flow path F1 (WA1 / WC1) is greater than the ratio of the width WA2 of the straight section of the second inlet A2 to the width WC2 of the second opposing section C2 in the second flow path F2 (WA2 / WC2).

[0112] Furthermore, the multiple flow channels F include a third flow channel F3 having a straight section of a third length, and a fourth flow channel F4 having a straight section of a fourth length shorter than the third length. At the second outlet section B2, the width WB3 of the straight section in the third flow channel F3 is greater than the width WB4 of the straight section in the fourth flow channel F4.

[0113] At the second outlet section B2, the second rib 124 forming the third flow path F3 is bent from the second outlet 123 toward the second opposing section C2 to widen the width of the third flow path F3. On the other hand, the second rib 124 forming the fourth flow path F4 extends straight from the second outlet 123 to maintain a constant width for the fourth flow path F4.

[0114] Here, in the second outlet section B2, the width W3 of the second outlet 123 of the first air in the third flow path F3 is the same as the width W4 of the second outlet 123 of the second air in the fourth flow path F4. "The widths of the second outlets 123 are the same" includes cases where the values ​​are exactly the same and cases where the values ​​are considered to be substantially the same. Cases where the values ​​are considered to be substantially the same include, for example, when the width W3 of the second outlet 123 of the third flow path F3 is within the range of 95% to 105% of the width W4 of the second outlet 123 of the fourth flow path F4.

[0115] In the third flow path F3, the ratio of the width of the straight section of the second outlet B2 to the width of the second opposing section C2 WC3 (WB3 / WC3) is greater than the ratio of the width of the straight section of the second outlet B2 WB4 to the width of the second opposing section C2 WC4 in the fourth flow path F4 (WB4 / WC4).

[0116] The first reinforcing rib 125 is positioned to intersect the first flow path FA1 at the second inlet A2. The second reinforcing rib 126 is positioned to intersect the third flow path FB3 at the second outlet B2. The third reinforcing rib 127 is positioned to intersect the first flow path FC1 and the third flow path FC3 at the second opposing section C2.

[0117] The second rib 124 intersects with the reinforcing ribs 125, 126, and 127. The heights of the reinforcing ribs 125, 126, and 127 are lower than the height of the second rib 124. Multiple second ribs 124 have approximately the same height.

[0118] The second frame 120 further has a fixed portion 128 which is fixed by a fixing member 140. The fixed portion 128 has an opening 129 through which the fixing member 140 passes. The fixed portion 128 is provided on the outer periphery side of the partition membrane 130. In Figure 6, the fixed portion 128 is provided so as to protrude outward from the long side at the long side where the second inlet 122 is not formed in the second inlet A2 and at the long side where the second outlet 123 is not formed in the second outlet B2.

[0119] In the second frame 120, the lowest flow path FL is inclined with respect to the lowest surface of the total heat exchanger 100. Here, "the lowest flow path FL" includes the flow path FC located in the second opposing section C2. In this embodiment, "the lowest flow path FL" is the lowest flow path in the flow path F formed by the frame 121 and the second rib 124. In other words, "the lowest flow path FL" includes the flow path formed by the lowest edge of the frame 121 and the second rib 124. In this embodiment, "downward" refers to downward in the vertical direction.

[0120] The lowest flow path FL is inclined downward toward the second inlet 122 side or the second outlet 123 side of the second air flowing through flow path FL. The inclination angle is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.5° or more, and preferably exceeds 1°. The upper limit of the inclination angle is not limited, but is, for example, 5°.

[0121] Here, the condensed water is discharged from the second inlet 122 or the second outlet 123, which are openings in the second frame 120. Therefore, the condensed water is discharged from the second inlet 122 or the second outlet 123, which are located lower down. Here, since the second inlet 122 is located lower than the second outlet 123, the condensed water is discharged from the second inlet 122, which is the lowest point. Thus, in this embodiment, the lowest point of the flow path FL is inclined downward toward the second inlet 122 side (right side in Figure 6) of the second air flowing through the flow path FL.

[0122] Furthermore, at the bottom edge of the second frame 120, the height H4 at one end where condensation water is discharged is smaller than the height H3 at the other end. Specifically, at the bottom edge located at the lowest point of the frame 121, the vertical height H4 at one end (the right end in Figure 6) is smaller than the vertical height H3 at the other end (the left end in Figure 6). Here, at the bottom edge located at the lowest point of the frame 121, the height gradually decreases from left to right.

[0123] In this embodiment, as described above, the end from which condensation water is discharged is the second inlet 122. Therefore, at the lowest edge of the second frame 120, the height H4 at the end on the second inlet 122 side is smaller than the height H3 at the other end on the second outlet 123 side.

[0124] Furthermore, at the top edge of the second frame 120, the height H2 at one end is greater than the height H1 at the other end. Specifically, at the top edge of the frame 121, the vertical height H2 at one end (the right end in Figure 6) is greater than the vertical height H1 at the other end (the left end in Figure 6). Here, at the top edge of the frame 121, the height gradually increases from left to right.

[0125] Therefore, the uppermost flow path FH is inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100. In Figure 6, the uppermost flow path FH is inclined upward toward the second outlet 123 side of the second air flowing through the flow path FH.

[0126] Thus, in this embodiment, the uppermost flow path FH and the lowermost flow path FL are inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100, while the other flow paths FC (including the central part in the vertical direction) are parallel to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100. In addition, in the second frame 120, multiple flow paths FC located below, including the lowest flow path FL, and multiple flow paths FC located above, including the uppermost flow path FH, may be inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger. In this case, the flow paths FC in the central part in the vertical direction of the second opposing section C2 are parallel to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100.

[0127] Furthermore, at least one of the lowest flow paths FL in the multiple second frames 120 is inclined with respect to the bottom surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100. The lowest flow paths FL in some of the second frames 120 do not need to be inclined with respect to the bottom surface 104, but it is preferable that the lowest flow paths FL in all of the second frames 120 are inclined with respect to the bottom surface 104.

[0128] Furthermore, in the first frame 110 and the second frame 120, which are adjacent to each other with the partition membrane 130 in between, the lowest flow path FL is inclined in opposite directions with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100. Here, the lowest flow path FL of the first frame 110 shown in Figure 5 is inclined downward from right to left, and the lowest flow path FL of the second frame 120 shown in Figure 6 is inclined downward from left to right.

[0129] The total heat exchanger 100 may also be further equipped with a drain pan (not shown) for receiving the discharged condensation water.

[0130] (2-2-3) Partition membrane As shown in Figure 4, the partition membrane 130 is provided between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. The partition membrane 130 separates the flow path F through which the first air flows from the flow path F through which the second air flows. The partition membrane 130 is a sheet-like member that covers the entire flow path F of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120.

[0131] The partition membrane 130 is permeable to moisture. The partition membrane 130 in this embodiment allows sensible heat to transfer while simultaneously allowing moisture to pass through.

[0132] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the partition membrane 130 includes a porous substrate 131 and a moisture-permeable layer 132. The moisture-permeable layer 132 is provided in contact with the porous substrate 131. The moisture-permeable layer 132 is welded to the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. Therefore, the partition membrane 130 is directly joined to the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 without the use of adhesive. In other words, there is no adhesive between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120.

[0133] The porous substrate 131 is a porous sheet-like member. Here, the porous substrate 131 is a resin sheet. The porous substrate 131 is composed of, for example, a polyolefin resin or a nonwoven fabric made of fibrous resin. The porous substrate 131 preferably has high moisture permeability. The thickness of the porous substrate 131 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 1 μm or more and 30 μm or less.

[0134] The porous substrate 131 has a first surface 131a and a second surface 131b. The second surface 131b is located on the opposite side from the first surface 131a. The first surface 131a is treated, for example, with a hydrophilic treatment.

[0135] The moisture-permeable layer 132 is a coating that covers the entire first surface 131a of the porous substrate 131. The thickness of the moisture-permeable layer 132 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.05 μm or more and 1 μm or less. The moisture-permeable layer 132 is composed of, for example, a moisture-permeable polymer.

[0136] (2-2-4) Fixing Members Figure 8 shows the state in Figure 3 with the side plate 103 omitted and the guide portion of the fixing member 140 not removed. Figure 9 shows the state in Figure 8 with the top plate 101 omitted. Figure 10 shows an enlarged view of one fixing member 140 near the top plate 101 in Figure 8. Figure 10 shows an enlarged view of one fixing member 140 near the bottom plate 102 in Figures 8 and 9.

[0137] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the fixing member 140 holds the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 under pressure in the stacking direction. Here, the fixing member 140 has a holding mechanism that holds multiple first frames 110, multiple second frames 120, and multiple partition membranes 130 under pressure in the stacking direction. The fixing member 140 is a rod-shaped member that extends in the stacking direction (front-to-back direction in Figures 8 and 9) of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120.

[0138] The fixing member 140 fixes the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 by being inserted into at least one of the fixed portion 118 of the first frame 110 and the fixed portion 128 of the second frame 120. The fixing member 140 does not have to be in contact with the fixed portions 118 and 128, but it may be in contact with a part of the fixed portions 118 and 128.

[0139] The fixed portion 118 of the first frame 110 and the fixed portion 128 of the second frame 120 are provided in the total heat exchanger 100 on at least one of the side portions including the first inlet 112 of the first air, the first outlet 113 of the first air, the second inlet 122 of the second air, and the second outlet 123 of the second air. Therefore, the fixing member 140 is provided in the total heat exchanger 100 on at least one of the side portions including the first inlet 112 of the first air, the first outlet 113 of the first air, the second inlet 122 of the second air, and the second outlet 123 of the second air.

[0140] Here, the fixed parts 118 and 128 are provided on the side portion including the first inlet 112 of the first air, the side portion including the first outlet 113 of the first air, the side portion including the second inlet 122 of the second air, and the side portion including the second outlet 123 of the second air. More specifically, the fixed part 118 of the first frame 110 is provided on the side portion including the second inlet 122 of the second air and the side portion including the second outlet 123 of the second air in the total heat exchanger 100. The fixed part 128 of the second frame 120 is provided on the side portion including the first inlet 112 of the first air and the side portion including the first outlet 113 of the first air in the total heat exchanger 100. For this reason, the fixing member 140 is provided on the side portion including the first inlet 112 of the first air, the side portion including the first outlet 113 of the first air, the side portion including the second inlet 122 of the second air, and the side portion including the second outlet 123 of the second air.

[0141] In this embodiment, the openings 119, 129 of the multiple fixed parts 118, 128 are arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction. The fixing members 140 are inserted through the openings 119, 129 in each row. In Figures 8 and 9, three fixing members 140 are provided on one side surface. Since fixing members 140 are provided on four side surfaces, the total heat exchanger 100 has 12 fixing members 140.

[0142] As shown in Figure 4, the fixing member 140 is located on the outer periphery of the partition membrane 130. Therefore, the fixing member 140 is not inserted into the partition membrane 130. In other words, the partition membrane 130 does not have a hole for the fixing member 140 to pass through.

[0143] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the fixing member 140 has an opening 141 with respect to at least one of the flow directions of the first air and the second air. Here, the fixing member 140 provided on the side portion including the first inlet 112 of the first air, and the fixing member 140 provided on the side portion including the first outlet 113 of the first air, have an opening 141 with respect to the flow direction of the first air. The fixing member 140 provided on the side portion including the second inlet 122 of the second air, and the fixing member 140 provided on the side portion including the second outlet 123 of the second air, have an opening 141 with respect to the flow direction of the second air.

[0144] One end of the fixing member 140 is fixed to the top plate 101, and the other end is fixed to the bottom plate 102. The top plate 101 and the bottom plate 102 are made of, for example, resin.

[0145] More specifically, as shown in Figure 10, one end of the fixing member 140 has an engaging claw 142 provided at one end in the stacking direction. This engaging claw 142 is fitted into the opening of the top plate 101. Also, as shown in Figure 11, the other end of the fixing member 140 has an engaging claw 143 provided at the other end in the stacking direction. This engaging claw 143 is fitted into the opening of the bottom plate 102. The engaging claws 142 and 143 are made of an elastic material, and here, the engaging claws 142 and 143 are snap-fit.

[0146] The distance between the two engaging claws 142 and 143 is less than the self-weight thickness of the first frame 110, the second frame 120, and the partition membrane 130 positioned between them. Therefore, the fixing member 140 can hold the first frame 110, the second frame 120, and the partition membrane 130 positioned between them under pressure. In this case, the fixing member 140 holds the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 under a pressure of 10 kPa or more.

[0147] In Figures 8 to 10, the fixing member 140 has a guide portion 144, but the guide portion 144 is removed during the manufacturing process.

[0148] (2-3) Manufacturing method A method for manufacturing the total heat exchanger 100 will be described.

[0149] The first frame 110 is placed on the base plate 102. Next, partition films 130 are attached to the first frame 110 and the second frame 120, and the two frames are stacked alternately to form a laminate on the base plate 102 as shown in Figure 9.

[0150] Next, a fixing member 140 having a guide portion 144 is prepared. This fixing member 140 is passed through the fixed portion 118 of the first frame 110 and the fixed portion 128 of the second frame 120, respectively. At this time, as shown in Figure 11, the engaging claws 143 of the fixing member 140 are fitted into the opening of the bottom plate 102 to fix the bottom plate 102 and the laminate to the fixing member 140.

[0151] Next, as shown in Figure 8, the guide portion 144 of the fixing member 140 is used to fit the engaging claw 142 of the fixing member 140 into the opening of the top plate 101, thereby fixing the fixing member 140 and the top plate 101. After that, the guide portion 144 is removed. The guide portion 144 is connected to the main body by perforations or the like, and is configured to be easily removed.

[0152] Next, the side plates 103 are attached to the laminate. This allows the total heat exchanger 100 shown in Figure 3 to be manufactured.

[0153] (2-4) Operation As shown in Figure 1, in the total heat exchanger 100, outdoor air OA flows into the first inlet 112 and indoor air RA flows into the second inlet 122. The outdoor air OA that flows into the first inlet 112 flows through the supply air side passage 25, passes through the first inlet A1, the first opposing section C1 and the first outlet B1 (see Figure 5) in order, and flows out from the first outlet 113 to be supplied to the room as supply air SA. The indoor air RA that flows into the second inlet 122 passes through the second inlet A2, the second opposing section C2 and the second outlet B2 (see Figure 6) in order, and flows out from the second outlet 123 to be discharged to the outside as exhaust air EA.

[0154] At the first inlet A1 and second outlet B2 of the total heat exchanger 100, and at the first outlet B1 and second inlet A2, the outdoor air as the first air and the indoor air as the second air flow in directions that intersect each other. At the first opposing section C1 and second opposing section C2 of the total heat exchanger 100, the outdoor air as the first air and the indoor air as the second air flow in opposite directions.

[0155] In the total heat exchanger 100, sensible heat and latent heat (moisture) are exchanged between the first air and the second air. In the total heat exchanger 100, heat moves from the air with a higher temperature to the air with a lower temperature. Also, in the total heat exchanger 100, moisture moves from the air with a higher humidity to the air with a lower humidity.

[0156] In this way, the total heat exchanger 100 exchanges heat between the outdoor air supplied to the room as the first air and the indoor air discharged from the room as the second air.

[0157] As the first air and the second air exchange heat in this manner, condensation water is generated on the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. The condensation water falls downward from each flow path F and moves to the flow path FL located at the lowest point. The flow path FL, located at the lowest point to which the condensation water has moved, is inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100, which is parallel to the surface on which the total heat exchanger 100 is installed. Therefore, the condensation water moves along the inclination and is discharged from at least one of the openings of the first frame 110, namely the first inlet 112 and the first outlet 113, and the openings of the second frame 120, namely the second inlet 122 and the second outlet 123 (in this case, at least one of the first inlet 112 and the second inlet 122). This promotes the discharge of condensation water from the first frame 110 and the second frame 120.

[0158] (3) Features (3-1) The total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment is a total heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between first air and second air. The total heat exchanger 100 comprises a plurality of first frames 110, a plurality of second frames 120, a plurality of partition membranes 130, and fixing members 140. The first frames 110 have a flow path F through which the first air flows. The second frames 120 have a flow path F through which the second air flows. The partition membranes 130 partition each first frame 110 and each second frame 120. The fixing members 140 fix the first frames 110 and the second frames 120. The plurality of first frames 110, the plurality of second frames 120 and the plurality of partition membranes 130 are stacked. The first frames 110 and the second frames 120 have fixed parts 118 and 128. The fixed parts 118 and 128 are fixed by the fixing members 140. The fixed portions 118 and 128 are provided on the outer periphery of the partition membrane 130.

[0159] In the total heat exchanger 100 of this embodiment, since the fixed portions 118 and 128 are provided on the outer circumference of the partition membrane 130, the fixing member 140 does not penetrate the partition membrane 130. Therefore, even if the fixing member 140 is provided, the through hole for passing the fixing member 140 through the partition membrane 130 can be omitted. Consequently, leakage of the first air flowing through the flow path F of the first frame 110 and the second air flowing through the flow path F of the second frame 120 can be reduced.

[0160] Therefore, the total heat exchanger 100 of this embodiment is suitably used in total heat exchangers 100 having more than 100 first frames 110 and second frames 120. In particular, it is suitably used in total heat exchangers 100 having a total of 200 or more first frames 110 and second frames 120.

[0161] (3-2) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixed parts 118 and 128 are provided on at least one of the side surfaces including the first air inlet (first inlet 112), the first air outlet (first outlet 113), the second air inlet (second inlet 122), and the second air outlet (second outlet 123).

[0162] In this configuration, a fixed portion, which is fixed by a fixing portion, is provided on at least one of the four side surfaces, including the first inlet 112 for the first air, the first outlet 113 for the first air, the second inlet 122 for the second air, and the second outlet 123 for the second air. This makes it possible to further reduce leakage of at least one of the first air and the second air.

[0163] (3-3) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixed parts 118 and 128 are provided on the side portion including the first inlet 112 of the first air, the side portion including the first outlet 113 of the first air, the side portion including the second inlet 122 of the second air, and the side portion including the second outlet 123 of the second air.

[0164] Here, fixed parts 118 and 128, which are fixed by a fixing member 140, are provided on four side surfaces, including a first inlet 112 and a first outlet 113 for the first air, which are the inlet and outlet for the first air, and a second inlet 122 and a second outlet 123 for the second air, which are the inlet and outlet for the second air. This makes it possible to further reduce leakage of the first and second air.

[0165] (3-4) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixing member 140 fixes the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 by being inserted into the fixed parts 118 and 128.

[0166] Thus, the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 may have fixed portions 118 and 128 for inserting the fixing member 140.

[0167] (3-5) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixing member 140 holds the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 while applying pressure in the stacking direction.

[0168] Here, the fixing member 140 holds the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 under pressure in the stacking direction, thereby improving the sealing performance between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. As a result, leakage of the first air flowing through the flow path F of the first frame 110 and the second air flowing through the flow path F of the second frame 120 can be further reduced.

[0169] Furthermore, the step of forming an opening in the partition membrane 130 for the fixing member 140 to pass through can be omitted. This reduces the effort required during the manufacturing of the total heat exchanger 100.

[0170] (3-6) In this embodiment, the total heat exchanger 100 has the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 fixed together without the use of adhesive.

[0171] In this design, no adhesive is used between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. As a result, a significant problem arises: the first air flowing through the channel F of the first frame 110 and the second air flowing through the channel F of the second frame 120 leak. To address this problem, the sealing performance can be improved by holding the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 under pressure in the stacking direction using the fixing member 140.

[0172] (3-7) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixing member 140 has two engaging claws 142 and 143. The two engaging claws 142 and 143 are provided at one end and the other end in the stacking direction. The distance between the two engaging claws 142 and 143 is smaller than the self-weight thickness of the first frame 110, the second frame 120, and the partition membrane 130 arranged between them.

[0173] Here, a laminate composed of multiple first frames 110, multiple second frames 120, and multiple partition membranes 130 is held in place under pressure in the stacking direction by engaging claws 142 and 143 of fixing members 140 provided at one end and the other end in the stacking direction. This makes it possible to reduce the thickness of the laminate placed between the engaging claw 142 at one end and the engaging claw 143 at the other end to less than the thickness of its own weight. In other words, the distance between the engaging claw 142 at one end and the engaging claw 143 at the other end becomes less than the thickness of the laminate placed between them.

[0174] (3-8) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixing member 140 holds the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 under a pressure of 10 kPa or more.

[0175] In this configuration, the fixing member 140 holds the laminate, which is composed of multiple first frames 110, multiple second frames 120, and multiple partition membranes 130, under pressure of 10 kPa or more, thereby improving the sealing performance between the first frames 110 and the second frames 120.

[0176] (3-9) In the total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment, the fixing member 140 has an opening 141 with respect to at least one of the flow directions of the first air and the second air.

[0177] In this configuration, at least one of the first air and the second air can pass through the opening 141 of the fixing member 140 during operation. This prevents the fixing member 140 from acting as resistance to the flow of at least one of the first air and the second air.

[0178] (3-10) The total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment further comprises a top plate 101 positioned above the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. The top plate 101 is fixed to a fixing member 140. Thus, the fixing member 140 may be fixed to the top plate 101.

[0179] (3-11) The total heat exchanger 100 according to this embodiment further comprises a bottom plate 102 positioned below the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. The bottom plate 102 is fixed to a fixing member 140. Thus, the fixing member 140 may be fixed to the bottom plate 102.

[0180] (3-12) The ventilation system 1 in this embodiment includes the total heat exchanger 100. In the total heat exchanger 100, the supply air supplied from outside to inside as first air and the exhaust air discharged from inside to outside as second air are subjected to heat exchange.

[0181] Since the ventilation device 1 of this embodiment is equipped with one of the total heat exchangers described above, leakage of the first air and the second air can be reduced.

[0182] (4) Variations (4-1) Experimental variation 1 In the above embodiment, the fixed portions 118 and 128 are provided at three locations, both ends and the center, on each of the side portion including the first inlet 112, the side portion including the first outlet 113, the side portion including the second inlet 122, and the side portion including the second outlet 123, but are not limited to this.

[0183] In this modified example, the fixed parts 118 and 128 are provided only at both ends of each of the side sections, including the first inlet 112, the first outlet 113, the second inlet 122, and the second outlet 123. In this case, since they are not provided in the center of the side section, the ventilation resistance can be reduced.

[0184] (4-2) Modification 2 In the above embodiment, the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 are members of the same shape, but the embodiment is not limited to this and may have different shapes.

[0185] (4-3) Modification 3 In the above embodiment, a rod-shaped fixing member 140 with engaging claws was described as an example, but it is not limited to this. The fixing member 140 may be composed of, for example, a bolt and a nut.

[0186] (4-4) Modification 4 In the above embodiment, the partition membrane 130 includes, but is not limited to, a resin sheet. The partition membrane 130 may be made of, for example, paper. In this case, the partition membrane 130 is a single layer.

[0187] (4-5) Modification 5 In the above embodiment, the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 have an octagonal shape in plan view, but are not limited thereto. The first frame 110 and the second frame 120 may have shapes such as a hexagon or a quadrilateral in plan view.

[0188] (4-6) Modification 6 In the above embodiment, the bottom surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100 is formed by the bottom plate 102, but is not limited to this. The bottom surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100 may be the bottom surface of at least one of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120, a surface defined by a plurality of legs, etc. The legs are members that support the total heat exchanger 100.

[0189] (4-7) Modification 7 In the above embodiment, the flow path FH located at the uppermost part of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 is inclined with respect to the lowest surface 104 of the total heat exchanger 100, but is not limited to this, and may be parallel to the lowest surface 104.

[0190] (4-8) Variation 8 In the above embodiment, the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 are welded to the partition membrane 130, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first frame 110 and the second frame 120 may be joined to the partition membrane 130 with an adhesive or the like.

[0191] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0192] 1: Ventilation system 100: Total heat exchanger 101: Tabletop 102:Bottom plate 110: First frame 112: Entrance 1 113: Exit 1 114: First Rib 118: Fixed part 119 :Aperture 120: 2nd frame 122: Entrance 2 123:Second exit 124: Second Rib 128: Fixed part 129 :Aperture 130: Partition membrane 140: Fixing member 141 :Aperture 142,143: Engaging claws A1: Entrance 1 A2: 2nd entrance section B1: 1st exit section B2: 2nd exit section C1: 1st opposing part C2: 2nd opposing part F, FA, FB, FC: Flow path [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0193] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-097447

Claims

1. A total heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between first air and second air, A plurality of first frames (110) in which the first airflow channel is formed, A plurality of second frames (120) in which the second airflow channel is formed, A plurality of partition membranes (130) separate each of the first frame and each of the second frame, The system comprises a fixing member (140) for fixing the first frame and the second frame, Multiple first frames, multiple second frames, and multiple partition films are stacked, The first frame and the second frame each have fixed portions (118, 128) that are fixed by the fixing member, The fixed portion is a total heat exchanger (100) provided on the outer periphery side of the partition membrane.

2. The fixed portion is provided on at least one of the side portion including the first air inlet, the side portion including the first air outlet, the side portion including the second air inlet, and the side portion including the second air outlet. The total heat exchanger according to claim 1.

3. The fixed portion is provided on the side portion including the first air inlet, the side portion including the first air outlet, the side portion including the second air inlet, and the side portion including the second air outlet. The total heat exchanger according to claim 2.

4. The fixing member is inserted into the part to be fixed, thereby fixing the first frame and the second frame. The total heat exchanger according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The fixing member holds the first frame and the second frame while applying pressure in the stacking direction. A total heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The first frame and the second frame are fixed together without the use of adhesive. The total heat exchanger according to claim 5.

7. The fixing member has two engaging claws (142, 143) provided at one end and the other end in the stacking direction, The distance between the two engaging claws is less than the self-weight thickness of the first frame, the second frame, and the partition membrane positioned between them. The total heat exchanger according to claim 5.

8. The fixing member holds the first frame and the second frame under a pressure of 10 kPa or more. The total heat exchanger according to claim 5.

9. The fixing member has an opening (141) with respect to at least one of the flow directions of the first air and the second air. A total heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The system further comprises a top plate (101) positioned above the first frame and the second frame, The top plate is fixed to the fixing member, A total heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

11. The system further comprises a bottom plate (102) positioned below the first frame and the second frame, The bottom plate is fixed to the fixing member, A total heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

12. A total heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, A ventilation device (1) in which a total heat exchanger exchanges heat between supply air supplied from outside to inside as the first air and exhaust air discharged from inside to outside as the second air.

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