Dehumidifier

Abstract

This technology provides a way to reduce power consumption for dehumidification. [Solution] The dehumidifier 100 comprises a flow path 20, a moisture-releasing air passage 50, a moisture-releasing section 22, a moisture-absorbing air passage 52, a moisture-absorbing section 26, a heating section 28, and a heat exchange section 40. Air introduced from outside the housing 10 flows through the moisture-releasing air passage 50. The moisture-releasing section 22 is located on the flow path 20 and releases moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing material to the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50. Air introduced from outside the housing 10 flows through the moisture-absorbing air passage 52. The moisture-absorbing section 26 absorbs moisture contained in the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage 52 into the liquid moisture-absorbing material. The heating section 28 is located on the flow path 20 and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section 26 and introduces it into the moisture-releasing section 22. The heat exchange section 40 is arranged across the dehumidifying air passage 50 and the dehumidifying air passage 52, and performs heat exchange between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the dehumidifying section 22 and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 26.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dehumidification device for removing moisture contained in air. [Background Art]

[0002] A dehumidification device including a dehumidification rotor and a heater performs dehumidification by taking in air from the outside and causing moisture in the taken-in air to be adsorbed to the dehumidification rotor. The dehumidification rotor that has adsorbed moisture releases moisture when heated by the heater (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-131786 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] When a solid desiccant material is used for a dehumidification rotor, the heater is required to perform heating at 100°C or higher to release the moisture adsorbed to the dehumidification rotor. Such high-temperature heating increases power consumption.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above conventional problems, and to provide a technique for reducing power consumption for dehumidification. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] To solve the above problems, a dehumidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a housing; a flow path through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to air circulating within the housing is circulated; a moisture-releasing air passage through which air introduced from outside the housing is circulated; a moisture-releasing section located on the flow path and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-releasing air passage; a moisture-absorbing air passage located within the housing separately from the moisture-releasing air passage and through which air introduced from outside the housing is circulated; a moisture-absorbing section located on the flow path and absorbing moisture contained in the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage into the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material; a heating section located on the flow path and heating the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has circulated through the moisture-absorbing section and introducing it to the moisture-releasing section; and a heat exchange section located across the moisture-releasing air passage and the moisture-absorbing air passage and performing heat exchange between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage that has circulated through the moisture-releasing section and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage before it circulates through the moisture-absorbing section.

[0007] Furthermore, any combination of the above components, as well as conversions of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, recording media, computer programs, etc., are also valid as aspects of this disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 1. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows the state change on the psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the installation of a dehumidifier. [Figure 4] This figure shows another example of the dehumidifier installation shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 2 (First Example). [Figure 6] This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 2 (Second Example). [Figure 7]This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 2 (third example). [Figure 8] This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 2 (Fourth Example). [Figure 9] This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 3 (First Example). [Figure 10] This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 3 (Second Example). [Figure 11] This figure shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 3 (Third Example). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Example 1) The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are examples that embody this disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of this disclosure. The figures described in the embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for identical components throughout the drawings, and their descriptions are omitted. In addition, details of parts not directly related to this disclosure are omitted in each drawing.

[0011] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100. The dehumidifier 100 includes a housing 10, a first intake port 12a and a second intake port 12b collectively referred to as intake ports 12, an outlet port 14, a flow path 20, a moisture release section 22, a drive section 24, a moisture absorption section 26, a heating section 28, a heat exchange section 40, and an air blowing section 42. The housing 10 has, for example, a box shape and is of the type of household electrical appliance, and is used when installed indoors. The housing 10 also has openings for the first intake port 12a, the second intake port 12b, and the outlet port 14.

[0012] In Figure 1, the first intake port 12a is connected to the dehumidifying air passage 50, and the second intake port 12b is connected to the dehumidifying air passage 52. Alternatively, instead of the first intake port 12a and the second intake port 12b, a single intake port 12 may be provided, and it may branch into the dehumidifying air passage 50 and the dehumidifying air passage 52 inside the housing 10. Also, in Figure 1, the dehumidifying air passage 50 and the dehumidifying air passage 52 are connected to the outlet port 14 after they are joined together. Alternatively, instead of the outlet port 14, a first outlet port 14a and a second outlet port 14b may be provided, with the dehumidifying air passage 50 connected to the first outlet port 14a and the dehumidifying air passage 52 connected to the second outlet port 14b.

[0013] A flow path 20 is arranged inside the housing 10. The flow path 20 is a tube through which a liquid desiccant flows. The liquid desiccant is a liquid desiccant, which is a liquid capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to the air flowing inside the housing 10. The liquid desiccant absorbs or releases moisture based on the water vapor pressure difference with the air. The temperature at which the liquid desiccant switches between absorbing and releasing moisture changes depending on the concentration of the inorganic salt aqueous solution. When the liquid desiccant is heated, its water vapor pressure increases, and the liquid desiccant releases moisture. On the other hand, when the liquid desiccant is cooled, its water vapor pressure decreases, and the liquid desiccant absorbs moisture. The liquid desiccant can release moisture at a lower temperature than a solid desiccant. Examples of liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing materials include aqueous solutions of hygroscopic inorganic salts (such as lithium chloride solution, potassium formate solution, lithium bromide solution, and calcium chloride solution), and organic compound solutions (such as triethylene glycol).

[0014] More specifically, when the concentration of the inorganic salt aqueous solution is low, the temperature at which moisture absorption and desorption switches is low, and when the concentration of the inorganic salt aqueous solution is high, the temperature at which moisture absorption and desorption switches is high. As an example, assuming a lithium chloride solution as the inorganic salt aqueous solution, when the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the concentration of the lithium chloride solution is 20%, the switching of moisture absorption and desorption occurs at approximately 20°C to 30°C. On the other hand, when the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the concentration of the lithium chloride solution is 30%, the switching of moisture absorption and desorption occurs at approximately 30°C to 40°C. When the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material is heated, the water vapor pressure of the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material increases, and the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material releases moisture. On the other hand, when the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material is cooled, the water vapor pressure of the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material decreases, and the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material absorbs moisture. The liquid moisture absorption / desorption material can release moisture at a lower temperature than solid desiccants.

[0015] The flow path 20 is arranged in an annular shape. On the flow path 20, a moisture desorption section 22, a drive section 24, a moisture absorption section 26, a heating section 28, and the moisture desorption section 22 are arranged in this order.

[0016] When the dehumidifier 100 is started, air sucked from the suction port 12b flows into the moisture absorption air duct 52, and operation starts with absorbing moisture contained in the sucked air. Accordingly, the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material circulates in the order of the moisture absorption section 26, the heating section 28, the moisture desorption section 22, the drive section 24, and the moisture absorption section 26. The circulation flow rate is, for example, several hundred mL / min to several L / min.

[0017] Inside the housing 10, a moisture desorption air duct 50 connected in order of a first suction port 12a, a heat exchange section 40, and a blower section 42 is arranged. Air introduced from outside the housing 10 flows through the moisture desorption air duct 50. Further, inside the housing 10, a moisture absorption air duct 52 connected in order of a second suction port 12b, the heat exchange section 40, the moisture absorption section 26, and the blower section 42 is arranged. The moisture absorption air duct 52 is arranged separately from the moisture desorption air duct 50, but in the blower section 42, the moisture desorption air duct 50 and the moisture absorption air duct 52 are joined and connected to the air outlet 14. For example, the air volume of the moisture desorption air duct 50 is 30 cubic meters per hour, and the air volume of the moisture absorption air duct 52 is 270 cubic meters per hour.

[0018] The first intake port 12a draws air from outside the housing 10 into the housing 10. Outside the housing 10 refers to, for example, an indoor space. Here, it is assumed that the temperature of the air drawn in through the first intake port 12a is, for example, room temperature (20°C). The air drawn in from the first intake port 12a flows along the dehumidifying air passage 50 to the dehumidifying section 22.

[0019] The dehumidifying section 22 is positioned on the flow path 20 and releases moisture from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 introduced from the first intake port 12a. This corresponds to the liquid dehumidifying material coming into contact with the air and releasing moisture into the air. The temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the dehumidifying section 22 is, for example, 55°C, and after the release of moisture in the dehumidifying section 22, the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material drops to, for example, 20-30°C. In addition, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 rises to, for example, 27°C in the dehumidifying section 22.

[0020] The moisture release section 22 is composed of a moisture-permeable membrane that allows water vapor to pass through but not liquid to prevent the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from scattering. In this configuration, air is passed through the moisture-permeable membrane through which the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flows. This prevents the loss of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material and also prevents it from scattering. The moisture release section 22 has a configuration in which the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flows inside the moisture-permeable membrane and air flows to the outside. For example, the moisture release section 22 is an element type with stacked moisture-permeable membranes or a hollow fiber membrane type. The air that has absorbed moisture in the moisture release section 22 flows along the moisture release air passage 50 to the heat exchange section 40.

[0021] The second intake port 12b draws air from outside the housing 10 into the housing 10. Here, we assume that the temperature of the air drawn in through the second intake port 12b is, for example, room temperature (20°C). The air drawn in through the second intake port 12b flows along the moisture intake air passage 52 to the heat exchange section 40.

[0022] The heat exchange section 40 is, for example, an air-cooled heat exchanger that exchanges only sensible heat, or a plate-type or double-tube-type heat exchanger, and is arranged across the dehumidifying air passage 50 and the dehumidifying air passage 52. The heat exchange section 40 performs heat exchange between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the dehumidifying section 22 and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 that has been drawn in from the second intake port 12b. The air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 that has been drawn in from the second intake port 12b corresponds to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 26, which will be described later. As described above, if the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the dehumidifying section 22 is, for example, 27°C, and the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 is, for example, room temperature (20°C), then due to heat exchange in the heat exchange section 40, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 after flowing through the heat exchange section 40 drops to 20°C, and the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 after flowing through the heat exchange section 40 rises to 22°C. As a result, the heat exchange section 40 cools at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 to below the dew point and collects it as condensed water in a drainage tank (not shown). The air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has been cooled in the heat exchange section 40 flows to the blowing section 42, and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 that has been heated in the heat exchange section 40 flows to the dehumidifying section 26.

[0023] The moisture absorption section 26 is positioned on the flow path 20 and absorbs moisture contained in the air of the moisture absorption air passage 52 into the liquid moisture absorption and release material. This corresponds to the liquid moisture absorption and release material coming into contact with the air and absorbing moisture from the air. The moisture absorption section 26 is configured similarly to the moisture release section 22. The temperature of the liquid moisture absorption and release material flowing into the moisture absorption section 26 is, for example, 20°C, and the temperature of the liquid moisture absorption and release material after absorbing moisture in the moisture absorption section 26 rises above that.

[0024] The air blower unit 42 comprises a motor (not shown) and a fan (not shown) connected to the motor's rotating shaft for drawing in and exhausting air. The air blower unit 42 forms an airflow along the dehumidifying air passage 50 and an airflow along the dehumidifying air passage 52 within the housing 10. In other words, the operation of the air blower unit 42 causes air to flow in the order of first intake port 12a, dehumidifying section 22, heat exchange section 40, air blower unit 42, and outlet port 14, and also in the order of second intake port 12b, heat exchange section 40, dehumidifying section 26, air blower unit 42, and outlet port 14. The outlet port 14 blows air from the inside of the housing 10 to the outside of the housing 10. The airflow of the air blower unit 42 is designed, for example, according to the required dehumidification amount or clothes drying capacity.

[0025] The drive unit 24 supplies power to circulate the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material within the flow path 20. The drive unit 24 is, for example, a pump.

[0026] The heating unit 28 is positioned on the flow path 20 and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows through the moisture-absorbing unit 26 and is then introduced into the moisture-releasing unit 22. The heating unit 28 is, for example, an electric heater and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material so that its temperature is higher than the temperature of the air. For example, the heating unit 28 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to about 55°C. Since the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material releases moisture more easily at higher temperatures, it is heated to increase its moisture-releasing capacity.

[0027] The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material circulates through the moisture-releasing section 22 and moisture-absorbing section 26 located on the flow path 20, thereby transporting moisture absorbed from the air in the moisture-absorbing section 26 to the moisture-releasing section 22, where it releases moisture back into the air. As a result, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material moves moisture from the moisture-absorbing section 26 to the moisture-releasing section 22.

[0028] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the state changes on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier 100. The horizontal axis shows the dry-bulb temperature (temperature), with the dry-bulb temperature increasing as you move to the right on the horizontal axis. The vertical axis shows the absolute humidity, with the absolute humidity increasing as you move upward on the vertical axis. Point P1 shows the state of the air before it flows into the dehumidification section 22 after being drawn in from the first intake port 12a or the second intake port 12b. Point P2 shows the state of the air after it has flowed out of the dehumidification section 22. Point P3 shows the state of the air after it has flowed into the heat exchange section 40, cooled to the dew point temperature, and then flowed out. Point P4 shows the state of the air after it has flowed out of the dehumidification section 26. Point P5 shows the state of the air after it has been blown out from the outlet port 14.

[0029] From point P1 to point P2, the absolute humidity increases as the air in the dehumidifying section 22 receives moisture from the liquid dehumidifying material. Additionally, the heating section 28 heats the liquid dehumidifying material to a temperature higher than the air temperature, causing the air temperature to rise due to heat exchange. As a result, the air at point P1, which is 20°C and 60% humidity, changes to 27.5°C and 80% humidity at point P2.

[0030] From point P2 to point P3, the air is cooled in the heat exchange section 40, so the air reaches the dew point temperature of 100 percent relative humidity while its absolute humidity remains constant. Also, in the heat exchange section 40, the absolute humidity and dry-bulb temperature of the air decrease along the curve of 100 percent relative humidity. If condensation water is recovered to replace the released moisture, the result is that at point P3, the air temperature becomes 20°C and the humidity becomes 90%.

[0031] From point P1 to point P4, the air in the moisture absorption section 26 transfers moisture to the liquid moisture absorption / release material, causing a decrease in absolute humidity. As a result, at point P4, the air temperature becomes 25°C and the humidity becomes 38%. From points P3, P4, and P5, the air in the moisture release air passage 50 and the air in the moisture absorption air passage 52 are mixed in the air blower section 42. The difference in absolute humidity between point P1 and point P5 corresponds to the amount of moisture removed by the dehumidifier 100.

[0032] The subject of the apparatus, system, or method in this disclosure comprises a computer. The functions of the subject of the apparatus, system, or method in this disclosure are realized by the computer executing a program. The computer comprises a processor as its main hardware component, which operates according to the program. The processor is of any type as long as it can realize its functions by executing the program. The processor consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or LSIs (Large Scale Integrations). Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip or provided on multiple chips. Multiple chips may be aggregated in one device or provided on multiple devices. The program is recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a ROM, optical disc, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer. The program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0033] Figure 3 shows an example of the installation of the dehumidifier 100. The facility 200 is a building such as a house. The facility 200 has a living space 202 and a non-living space 204. The non-living space 204 is a space other than the living space 202, such as the attic or a machine room. The dehumidifier 100 is installed in the non-living space 204. Therefore, the dehumidifier 100 may be installed in the room (living space 202) as a household electrical appliance type, or it may be installed in the non-living space 204 as an equipment type.

[0034] Figure 4 shows another installation example of the dehumidifier 100. If the dehumidifier 100 is of the installation type, it may be connected to the heat exchange fan 210 by a duct. By installing the dehumidifier 100 in the air supply path after the air has passed through the heat exchange fan 210, the dehumidifier 100 dehumidifies the incoming outside air and supplies it to the living space 202 (see Figure 3).

[0035] According to this embodiment, by using a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, moisture can be released in the moisture-releasing section at a lower temperature than with a solid desiccant. Furthermore, since moisture is released at a lower temperature, the amount of heat required for heating can be suppressed. Also, since the amount of heat required for heating is suppressed, the power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. In addition, in the heat exchange section 40, heat exchange is performed between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50 that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22 and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage 52 before it flows through the moisture-absorbing section 26, so the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50 can be cooled. Furthermore, since the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50 is cooled, moisture can be released from the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50. Furthermore, since at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50 that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22 is cooled to below the dew point, moisture can be released from the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 50.

[0036] An overview of one aspect of this disclosure is as follows: (Item 1) The enclosure (10) and A flow path (20) is provided within the housing (10) through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to the air flowing within the housing (10) is circulated. A dehumidifying air passage (50) is located inside the housing (10) and through which air introduced from outside the housing (10) flows, A moisture release section (22) is positioned on the flow path (20) and releases moisture from the liquid moisture absorber to the air in the moisture release air passage (50), A moisture-absorbing air passage (52) is located within the housing (10) and is separate from the moisture-releasing air passage (50), and through which air introduced from outside the housing (10) flows. A moisture-absorbing section (26) is positioned on the flow path (20) and absorbs moisture contained in the air of the moisture-absorbing air passage (52) into the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, A heating unit (28) is positioned on the flow path (20) and heats the liquid moisture absorber (26) that has flowed through the moisture absorber (26) and introduces it into the moisture release unit (22), A heat exchange unit (40) is arranged across the moisture-releasing air passage (50) and the moisture-absorbing air passage (52), and performs heat exchange between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage (50) that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section (22) and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage (52) before it flows through the moisture-absorbing section (26), A dehumidifier (100) equipped with the following.

[0037] (Item 2) The heat exchange section (40) cools at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the dehumidifying air passage (50) that has flowed through the dehumidifying section (22) to below the dew point and recovers it as condensed water. Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 1.

[0038] (Example 2) Example 2 relates to the same dehumidifier 100 as Example 1. The purpose of Example 2 is to further improve the efficiency of dehumidification. Below, we will describe Examples 1 through 4 in order, focusing on the differences from Example 1.

[0039] Figure 5 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (first example). Compared to Figure 1, the dehumidifier 100 has a heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage positioned between the moisture release section 22 and the drive section 24 on the flow path 20. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned between the heat exchange section 40 and the air blowing section 42 in the dehumidifying air passage 50. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage exchanges heat between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the heat exchange section 40. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage releases heat from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the heat exchange section 40. The temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flowing into the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage after moisture is released in the moisture release section 22 is, for example, 30°C, and the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material after heat dissipation in the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage drops to, for example, 20°C. Furthermore, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 rises, for example, from 20°C to 28°C in the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage.

[0040] Figure 6 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (second example). Compared to Figure 1, the dehumidifier 100 has the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage and the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage arranged in order between the moisture release section 22 and the drive section 24 on the flow path 20. In other words, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture release section 22 flows in the order of the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage, the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage, the drive section 24, and the moisture absorption section 26. Furthermore, the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage is located between the heat exchange section 40 and the air blowing section 42 in the moisture release air passage 50, and the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage is located between the moisture absorption section 26 and the air blowing section 42 in the moisture absorption air passage 52.

[0041] The heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage exchanges heat between the liquid moisture absorption material and the air in the moisture absorption air passage 52 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 26. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage releases heat from the liquid moisture absorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage 52 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 26. The heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture discharge air passage is the same as in the first example, so its explanation is omitted here. The temperature of the liquid moisture absorption material decreases, for example, from 30°C to 25°C in the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage, and decreases, for example, from 25°C to 20°C in the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture discharge air passage.

[0042] Figure 7 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (third example). Compared to Figure 1, the dehumidifier 100 includes a third intake port 12c and a heat dissipation air passage 54, and a heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture dissipation air passage and a heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage are arranged in order between the moisture dissipation section 22 and the drive unit 24 on the flow path 20. In other words, the liquid moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying material that has flowed through the moisture dissipation section 22 flows in the order of the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture dissipation air passage, the heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage, the drive unit 24, and the moisture absorption section 26. Inside the housing 10, a heat dissipation air passage 54 is arranged, which is connected in order to the third intake port 12c, the heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage, and the blower unit 42. The heat dissipation air passage 54 is arranged inside the housing 10 separately from the moisture dissipation air passage 50 and the moisture absorption air passage 52. Air introduced from outside the housing 10 flows through the heat dissipation air passage 54.

[0043] The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned between the heat exchange section 40 and the air blowing section 42 in the dehumidifying air passage 50, and the heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage is positioned between the third intake port 12c and the air blowing section 42 in the heat dissipation air passage 54. The heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the heat dissipation air passage 54 that flows in from the third intake port 12c. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage releases heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the heat dissipation air passage 54. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is the same as in the first example, so its description is omitted here. The temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material decreases, for example, from 40°C to 30°C in the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage, and decreases, for example, from 30°C to 20°C in the heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage.

[0044] Figure 8 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (fourth example). In the dehumidifier 100, the arrangement of the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is different from that in Figure 5 (first example). The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is located between the dehumidifying section 22 and the drive unit 24 on the flow path 20. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is located between the first intake port 12a and the dehumidifying section 22 in the dehumidifying air passage 50. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that flows in from the first intake port 12a. The air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that flows in from the first intake port 12a corresponds to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 22. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned on the flow path 20 and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage before it flows through the dehumidifying section 22.

[0045] In the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage, the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material decreases from, for example, 30°C to 20°C, and the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 increases from, for example, 20°C to 28°C. As a result, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 flowing into the dehumidifying section 22 is higher compared to the first example, so the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing through the dehumidifying section 22 increases. In the dehumidifying section 22, dehumidification is promoted when the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material is higher, so the capacity of the dehumidifying section 22 is improved.

[0046] In these embodiments (Examples 1 to 4), in the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the heat exchange section 40 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thereby lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the moisture absorption section 26. Furthermore, since the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the moisture absorption section 26 is lowered, the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture absorption section 26 can be improved. In addition, in the heat dissipation section 46 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 26 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thereby lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the moisture absorption section 26. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation section 48 for the heat dissipation air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the heat dissipation air passage 54 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thereby lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the moisture absorption section 26. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 22 and the liquid dehumidifying material, which allows the temperature of the air flowing into the dehumidifying section 22 to be increased. In addition, since the temperature of the air flowing into the dehumidifying section 22 is increased, the capacity of the dehumidifying section 22 can be improved.

[0047] An overview of one aspect of this disclosure is as follows: (Item 3) The system further includes a heat dissipation section (44) for a moisture-dissipating air passage, which is positioned on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-dissipating air passage (50) that has flowed through the heat exchange section (40). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 1.

[0048] (Item 4) The system further includes a heat dissipation section (46) for a moisture absorption air passage, which is positioned on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage (52) that has flowed through the moisture absorption section (26), The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section (22) flows in the following order: the heat-dissipating section (46) for the moisture-absorbing air passage, the heat-dissipating section (44) for the moisture-releasing air passage, and the moisture-absorbing section (26). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 3.

[0049] (Item 5) Within the housing (10), there is a heat dissipation air passage (54) which is arranged separately from the moisture dissipation air passage (50) and the moisture absorption air passage (52), and through which air introduced from outside the housing (10) flows, The system further includes a heat dissipation section (48) for a heat dissipation air passage, which is positioned on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorber to the air in the heat dissipation air passage (54). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 3.

[0050] (Item 6) The system further includes a heat dissipation section (44) for a moisture-releasing air passage, which is positioned on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-releasing air passage (50) before it flows through the moisture-releasing section (22). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 1.

[0051] (Example 3) Example 3 relates to the same dehumidifier 100 as Examples 1 and 2. The purpose of Example 3 is to further improve the efficiency of dehumidification. Below, Examples 1 through 3 will be described in order, focusing on the differences from Examples 1 and 2.

[0052] Figure 9 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (first example). Compared to Figure 1, the dehumidifier 100 further includes a temperature control unit 60. The temperature control unit 60 includes a heat supply unit 62 and a cold supply unit 64. The heat supply unit 62 is located on the flow path 20 and functions as the heating unit 28 in Examples 1 and 2. That is, the heat supply unit 62 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows through the moisture absorption unit 26 and is then introduced into the moisture release unit 22. The cold supply unit 64 is located on the moisture release air passage 50 between the heat exchange unit 40 and the air blowing unit 42. The cold supply unit 64 cools the air in the moisture release air passage 50 that has flowed through the heat exchange unit 40.

[0053] Here, the temperature control unit 60 is a heat pump, specifically, for example, a Peltier element or a vapor compression type heat pump. The temperature control unit 60 transfers the heat received from the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 in the cooling supply unit 64 to the liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier in the heating supply unit 62. Therefore, the temperature control unit 60 performs heat transport between the cooling supply unit 64 and the heating supply unit 62. For example, the heating supply unit 62 heats the liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier to, for example, about 55°C. Also, in the cooling supply unit 64, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 decreases from, for example, room temperature (20°C) to a temperature below room temperature (15°C).

[0054] Figure 10 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (second example). Compared to Figure 9, the dehumidifier 100 has a heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage positioned between the dehumidifying section 22 and the drive section 24 on the flow path 20. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned between the cooling supply section 64 and the air blowing section 42 in the dehumidifying air passage 50. The heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the cooling supply section 64. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 44 for the dehumidifying air passage releases heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the cooling supply section 64. The temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flowing into the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture-releasing air passage is, for example, 30°C. The temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material after heat dissipation in the heat dissipation section 44 is lowered to, for example, 15°C by the air from the moisture-releasing air passage 50, which flows through the cooling and heat supply section 64 and flows into the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture-releasing air passage, and the air from the moisture-releasing air passage 50, which is, for example, 15°C.

[0055] Figure 11 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (third example). Compared to Figure 9, the dehumidifier 100 has the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage and the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage arranged in order between the moisture release section 22 and the drive section 24 on the flow path 20. In other words, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture release section 22 flows in the order of the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage, the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage, the drive section 24, and the moisture absorption section 26. Furthermore, the heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage is located between the cooling supply section 64 and the blowing section 42 in the moisture release air passage 50, and the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage is located between the moisture absorption section 26 and the blowing section 42 in the moisture absorption air passage 52.

[0056] The heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage exchanges heat between the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material and the air in the moisture absorption air passage 52 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 26. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 46 for the moisture absorption air passage dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage 52 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 26. The heat dissipation section 44 for the moisture release air passage is the same as in the second example, so its explanation is omitted here.

[0057] In these embodiments (Examples 1 to 3), heat transport is performed between the heat supply unit 62 and the cold supply unit 64, allowing the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 to be further cooled. Also, because heat transport is performed between the heat supply unit 62 and the cold supply unit 64, the increase in power consumption when heating the liquid dehumidifying material can be suppressed. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation unit 46 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 52 that has flowed through the dehumidifying unit 26 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thus lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the dehumidifying unit 26. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation unit 44 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 50 that has flowed through the cold supply unit 64 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thus lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the dehumidifying unit 26 to a temperature lower than the temperature of the air flowing in from the intake port 12. Furthermore, since the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flowing into the moisture-absorbing section 26 decreases, the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture-absorbing section 26 can be improved.

[0058] An overview of one aspect of this disclosure is as follows: (Item 7) The system further comprises a temperature control unit (60) which performs heat transfer between the cold supply unit (64) and the hot supply unit (62), and includes a heat supply unit (62) which functions as the heating unit (28), The cooling and heat supply unit (64) is positioned on the dehumidifying air passage (50) and cools the air in the dehumidifying air passage (50) that has flowed through the heat exchange unit (40). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 1.

[0059] (Item 8) The system further includes a heat dissipation section (44) for a moisture dissipation air passage, which is positioned on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorber to the air in the moisture dissipation air passage (50) that has flowed through the cooling and heat supply section (64). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 7.

[0060] (Item 9) The system further includes a heat dissipation section (46) for a moisture absorption air passage, which is positioned on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage (52) that has flowed through the moisture absorption section (26), The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section (22) flows in the following order: the heat-dissipating section (46) for the moisture-absorbing air passage, the heat-dissipating section (44) for the moisture-releasing air passage, and the moisture-absorbing section (26). Dehumidifier (100) as described in item 8.

[0061] Although the present disclosure has been explained above based on the examples, it can be easily inferred that the present disclosure is not limited in any way to the above examples, and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 10 Housing, 12 Intake, 14 Outlet, 20 Flow path, 22 Dehumidification section, 24 Drive unit, 26 Dehumidification section, 28 Heating section, 40 Heat exchange section, 42 Air blower, 44 Heat dissipation section for dehumidification air passage, 46 Heat dissipation section for dehumidification air passage, 48 Heat dissipation section for heat dissipation air passage, 50 Dehumidification air passage, 52 Dehumidification air passage, 54 Heat dissipation air passage, 60 Temperature control section, 62 Heat supply section, 64 Cooling supply section, 100 Dehumidifier, 200 Facility, 202 Living space, 204 Non-living space, 210 Heat exchange fan.

Claims

1. The casing and A flow path through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, which is disposed within the housing and capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to the air flowing within the housing, A dehumidifying air passage is provided within the aforementioned housing, through which air introduced from outside the housing flows. A moisture release section is arranged on the aforementioned flow path and releases moisture from the liquid moisture absorber to the air in the moisture release air passage, A moisture absorption air passage is provided within the housing, separate from the moisture release air passage, through which air introduced from outside the housing flows. A moisture-absorbing section is arranged on the flow path and absorbs moisture contained in the air of the moisture-absorbing air passage into the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, A heating unit is arranged on the aforementioned flow path and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section and introduces it into the moisture-releasing section. A heat exchange unit is arranged across the moisture-releasing air passage and the moisture-absorbing air passage, and performs heat exchange between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage before it flows through the moisture-absorbing section. A dehumidifier equipped with the following features.

2. The heat exchange unit cools at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the dehumidifying unit to below the dew point and recovers it as condensed water. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1.

3. The system further comprises a heat dissipation section for a dehumidifying air passage, which is arranged on the aforementioned flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the heat exchange section. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1.

4. The system further comprises a heat dissipation section for a moisture absorption air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage through which the moisture absorption section has flowed, The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section flows in the following order: the heat-dissipating section for the moisture-absorbing air passage, the heat-dissipating section for the moisture-releasing air passage, and the moisture-absorbing section. The dehumidifying device according to claim 3.

5. Within the housing, there is a heat dissipation air passage, which is arranged separately from the moisture dissipation air passage and the moisture absorption air passage, and through which air introduced from outside the housing flows. The system further comprises a heat dissipation section for a heat dissipation air passage, which is arranged on the aforementioned flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorber to the air in the heat dissipation air passage. The dehumidifying device according to claim 3.

6. The system further comprises a heat dissipation section for a moisture-dissipating air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-dissipating air passage before it flows through the moisture-dissipating section. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1.

7. The system further comprises a temperature control unit that performs heat transfer between the heating unit and the cold heating unit, and includes a heat supply unit that functions as a heating unit and a cold heating unit. The cooling supply unit is positioned on the dehumidifying air passage and cools the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the heat exchange unit. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1.

8. The system further comprises a heat dissipation section for a dehumidifying air passage, which is arranged on the aforementioned flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the cooling and heat supply section. The dehumidifying device according to claim 7.

9. The system further comprises a heat dissipation section for a moisture absorption air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage through which the moisture absorption section has flowed, The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section flows in the following order: the heat-dissipating section for the moisture-absorbing air passage, the heat-dissipating section for the moisture-releasing air passage, and the moisture-absorbing section. The dehumidifying device according to claim 8.

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