Ventilation system

Abstract

To provide a ventilation device capable of improving a ventilation function.SOLUTION: A ventilation device includes: a first flow passage connecting a first inflow outlet connected to an outdoor side and a second inflow outlet connected to an indoor side; a fan disposed in the first flow passage and enabling switching between a first rotating direction for generating an air flow from the outdoor side toward the indoor side and a second rotating direction for generating an air flow from the indoor side toward the outdoor side; an absorber disposed on the first inflow outlet side of the fan in the first flow passage and absorbing moisture of air; and a heater disposed on the first inflow outlet side of the absorber in the first flow passage and heating air flowing toward the absorber. The ventilation device executes an operation mode including a humidification operation in which the heater heats outdoor air and the heated outdoor air deprives the moisture of the absorber and flows toward the indoor side and a discharge ventilation operation in which indoor air flows toward the outdoor side. In the humidification operation, the fan is rotated in the first rotating direction, and in the discharge ventilation operation, the fan is rotated in the second rotating direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a ventilation device. [Background technology]

[0002] As an example of a ventilation device, Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner capable of performing a humidification operation in which humidified air is supplied from an outdoor unit to an indoor unit.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner with a humidifying function that blows humidified air supplied from outside into a room. The air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 is characterized by having a humidity sensor disposed near the connection of a humidifying hose that transports the humidified air. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-91000 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of improving the ventilation function.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a ventilation device that can improve ventilation function in order to solve the above problems.

[0007] A ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first flow path connecting a first inlet / outlet connected to the outside of the room and a second inlet / outlet connected to the inside of the room, a fan arranged in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction for generating an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction for generating an air flow from the inside to the outside of the room, an absorbent arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet / outlet than the fan and absorbing moisture in the air, and a heater arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet / outlet than the absorbent and heating the air heading toward the absorbent, and executes operation modes including a humidification operation in which the heater heats the outdoor air and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent and heads toward the room, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air is headed toward the outside of the room, and in the humidification operation the fan rotates in the first rotation direction, and in the exhaust ventilation operation the fan rotates in the second rotation direction.

[0008] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a ventilation device, and the ventilation device is disposed in the outdoor unit. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, the ventilation function can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner including a ventilation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] Schematic diagram of ventilation system [Figure 3A] Top view of vortex fan [Figure 3B] Cross-sectional view of the vortex blower fan taken along line AA in FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] Diagram showing the intake ventilation operation of the ventilation system [Diagram 5] Diagram showing exhaust ventilation operation of the ventilation system [Figure 6] Diagram showing humidification operation of the ventilation system [Figure 7] Diagram showing dehumidification operation of the ventilation system [Figure 8] Diagram showing regeneration operation of the ventilation system DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] (Background to this disclosure) Conventional ventilation devices perform an intake ventilation operation to send outdoor air from the outside into the room. The intake ventilation operation allows fresh outdoor air to be sent into the room.

[0012] However, in the intake ventilation operation, it is difficult to efficiently exhaust polluted indoor air to the outside. Examples of polluted indoor air include air containing particles such as PM2.5 or having a high concentration of gases such as CO2. Therefore, there is a demand for the execution of an exhaust ventilation operation that efficiently exhausts indoor air to the outside.

[0013] Therefore, the present inventors have discovered a configuration of a ventilation device that can change the air flow in the ventilation device and can perform both intake ventilation operation and exhaust ventilation operation.

[0014] Based on these novel findings, the present inventors have made the following disclosure.

[0015] A ventilation device of a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a first flow path connecting a first inlet / outlet connected to the outside of the room and a second inlet / outlet connected to the inside of the room, a fan arranged in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction to generate an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction to generate an air flow from the inside to the outside of the room, an absorbent arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet / outlet than the fan and absorbing moisture in the air, and a heater arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet / outlet than the absorbent and heating the air heading toward the absorbent, and executes operation modes including a humidification operation in which the heater heats the outdoor air and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent and heads toward the room, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air is headed toward the outside of the room, and in the humidification operation the fan rotates in the first rotation direction, and in the exhaust ventilation operation the fan rotates in the second rotation direction.

[0016] With this configuration, the ventilation device can perform a humidification operation in which humidified outdoor air is sent into the room, as well as an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air is blown out to the outside, thereby improving the ventilation function.

[0017] In the ventilation device of the second aspect of the present disclosure, the operating mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater is stopped and moisture is collected by an absorbent material so that dry outdoor air is directed into the room, and in the dehumidification operation, the fan may rotate in a first rotation direction.

[0018] With this configuration, the ventilation device can further perform a dehumidification operation in which dried outdoor air is sent into the room, thereby improving the ventilation function.

[0019] A ventilation device of a third aspect of the present disclosure further includes a second flow path connected between the fan and the absorbent material in the first flow path, and a first damper arranged at a position where the first flow path and the second flow path are connected, wherein the second flow path is provided with a third inlet / outlet connected to the outside of the room, and the first damper may switch the direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0020] With this configuration, the second inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet can be communicated with each other without passing through the absorbent material.

[0021] In the ventilation device of the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the first damper may switch the flow direction of outdoor air flowing from the first inlet / outlet to the first flow path through the first flow path to a first direction toward the second inlet / outlet, and may switch the flow direction of indoor air flowing from the second inlet / outlet to the first flow path through the second flow path to a second direction toward the third inlet / outlet, in humidification operation.

[0022] With this configuration, the indoor air can be discharged to the outside through the second flow path without passing through the absorbent material.

[0023] In the ventilation device of the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating modes further include an intake ventilation operation for supplying air from outside to inside the room, and in the intake ventilation operation, the fan rotates in a first rotation direction, and the first damper may switch the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the third inlet / outlet to the second flow path to a third direction toward the second inlet / outlet through the first flow path.

[0024] With this configuration, the outside air can be sent into the room through the second flow path without passing through the absorbent material.

[0025] The ventilation device of the sixth aspect of the present disclosure may further include a controller for a user to select an operation mode, and the operation mode selected by the user may be executed via the controller.

[0026] This configuration allows the user to select the operating mode that he or she wishes the ventilator to carry out.

[0027] A ventilation device according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure further includes a third flow path connected between the fan and the second inlet / outlet in the first flow path, and a second damper arranged at a position where the first flow path and the third flow path are connected, and the third flow path is provided with a fourth inlet / outlet connected to the outside of the room, and the second damper may switch the direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the third flow path.

[0028] With this configuration, the outdoor air flowing through the first flow path can be discharged to the outside through the third flow path.

[0029] In the ventilation device of the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating mode may further include a regeneration operation in which the absorbent material is dried by heated outdoor air, and in the regeneration operation, the fan rotates in a first rotation direction, and the second damper may switch the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet / outlet to the first flow path to a fourth direction toward the fourth inlet / outlet via the third flow path.

[0030] With this configuration, a regeneration operation can be further performed to regenerate the absorbent material.

[0031] In the ventilation device of the ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation may be performed alternately.

[0032] With this configuration, the dehumidifying operation can be performed continuously and intermittently.

[0033] In the ventilation device of the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the fan may be a vortex fan.

[0034] This configuration allows for increased pressure and improved fan efficiency.

[0035] In the ventilation device of the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the absorbent material may be a polymeric sorbent material.

[0036] With this structure, the moisture absorption rate is high, the moisture can be desorbed at a low heating temperature, and the moisture can be retained for a long period of time.

[0037] The air conditioner of a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure includes an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a ventilation device, and the ventilation device is disposed in the outdoor unit.

[0038] With this configuration, the ventilation function of the air conditioner can be improved.

[0039] A ventilator of a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a ventilator for an air conditioner equipped with an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and includes a flow path connecting a first inlet / outlet connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet / outlet connected to the indoor side, and a fan disposed in the flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction to generate an air flow from the outdoors to the inside of the room, and a second rotation direction to generate an air flow from the indoors to the outdoors.

[0040] With this configuration, the air conditioner can perform an intake ventilation operation in which outdoor air is sent into the room, as well as an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air is blown out to the outside, thereby improving the ventilation function.

[0041] (Embodiment) An air conditioner will be described as an example of a configuration including a ventilation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] [Overall configuration] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner 1 including a ventilation device 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 1, an air conditioner 1 according to this embodiment includes an indoor unit 10, an outdoor unit 20, and a ventilation device 30. The indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit 20 are connected via a refrigerant piping 50. The ventilation device 30 is disposed outdoors. The ventilation device 30 may also be disposed in the outdoor unit 20. For example, the ventilation device 30 is disposed on the upper surface of the outer casing of the outdoor unit 20.

[0044] <Indoor unit> The indoor unit 10 includes a first heat exchanger 11, an indoor fan 12, an outlet 13, and a part of the refrigerant piping 50. The indoor unit 10 is placed in a room to be air-conditioned. The first heat exchanger 11 exchanges heat with air. The indoor fan 12 blows the air, the temperature of which has been adjusted by the first heat exchanger 11, into the room through the outlet 13.

[0045] <Outdoor unit> The outdoor unit 20 includes a second heat exchanger 21, an outdoor fan 22, a compressor 23, an expansion valve 24, and a part of the refrigerant piping 50. The outdoor unit 20 is disposed outside the room, which is defined by a wall K from the room. The second heat exchanger 21 exchanges heat with the air. The outdoor fan 22 blows the air, the temperature of which has been adjusted by the second heat exchanger 21, out toward the outside of the room. The compressor 23 compresses the refrigerant that has flowed in from the refrigerant piping 50, and the expansion valve 24 expands the refrigerant that has flowed in from the refrigerant piping 50. The flow direction of the refrigerant may be changed, for example, by using a four-way valve depending on the operation mode (cooling operation, heating operation) of the air conditioner 1.

[0046] The refrigerant piping 50 has a flow path through which the refrigerant flows inside the refrigerant piping 50, and circulates the refrigerant. The refrigerant piping 50 is arranged to connect the first heat exchanger 11, the compressor 23, the second heat exchanger 21, and the expansion valve 24.

[0047] Next, components of the ventilation device 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the ventilation device 30.

[0048] <Ventilation equipment> In this embodiment, the ventilation device 30 includes a housing 31, a first flow path P1, a second flow path P2, a third flow path P3, a heater 32, an absorbent material 33, a fan 34, a first damper 35, a second damper 36, and a controller 37.

[0049] <Case> 2, the housing 31 is a member that houses components of the ventilation device 30 and constitutes the external appearance of the ventilation device 30. The housing 31 is also provided with a plurality of inlet / outlet ports. Air flows into or out of the housing 31 through the plurality of inlet / outlet ports. More specifically, the housing 31 is provided with a first inlet / outlet E1, a second inlet / outlet E2, a third inlet / outlet E3, and a fourth inlet / outlet E4.

[0050] The first inlet outlet E1, the third inlet outlet E3, and the fourth inlet outlet E4 are connected to the outside of the room. The first inlet outlet E1, the third inlet outlet E3, and the fourth inlet outlet E4 are, for example, openings penetrating a side wall of the housing 31 arranged outside the room.

[0051] The second inlet / outlet E2 is connected to the indoor side. The second inlet / outlet E2 may be indirectly connected to the indoor side. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the second inlet / outlet E2 is connected to the indoor unit 10 via a pipe 60 and communicates with the room through the air outlet 13 of the indoor unit 10.

[0052] <First flow path> As shown in FIG. 2, the first flow path P1 is a flow path formed inside the housing 31 and through which air flows. For example, the first flow path P1 is a space defined by the inner wall of the housing 31. The first flow path P1 may also be a flow path formed by piping arranged in the housing 31. The first flow path P1 connects the first inlet / outlet E1 and the second inlet / outlet E2. The second flow path P2 and the third flow path P3 are connected to the first flow path P1. The second flow path P2 is connected to the first flow path P1 between the absorbent material 33 and the fan 34 described later. The second flow path P2 is connected to the first flow path P1 between the fan 34 and the second inlet / outlet E2 described later.

[0053] Here, we define indoor air and outdoor air. As shown in Figure 1, the air present in the indoor space that is defined by wall K and is the target of air conditioning is defined as indoor air. On the other hand, the air present in the outdoor space that is isolated from the indoor space by wall K is defined as outdoor air.

[0054] <Heater> As shown in FIG. 2, the heater 32 is disposed in the first flow path P1 and heats the air flowing toward the absorbent 33. For example, the heater 32 heats the outdoor air that flows into the housing 31 from the first inlet / outlet E1. The heater 32 may be a heater whose electrical resistance increases when a current flows and the temperature increases. For example, the heater 32 is a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater that can suppress an excessive increase in the heating temperature. In the case of a PTC heater, the heater 32 itself adjusts the heating temperature within a certain temperature range, so there is no need to monitor the heating temperature.

[0055] <Absorbent material> The absorbent 33 is a member through which the outdoor air can pass and which absorbs moisture from the outdoor air passing therethrough or imparts moisture to the outdoor air passing therethrough. The absorbent 33 is disposed in the first flow path P1 farther from the first inlet / outlet E1 than the heater 32. The absorbent 33 may have a disk-like shape and may rotate around a center. During operation of the ventilation device 30, the absorbent 33 may continue to rotate at a constant rotational speed.

[0056] The absorbent 33 may be formed of a polymer adsorbent that adsorbs moisture in the air. The polymer adsorbent is, for example, composed of a crosslinked sodium polyacrylate. Compared to adsorbents such as silica gel and zeolite, the polymer adsorbent has a higher moisture absorption rate, can desorb moisture at a low heating temperature, and can retain moisture for a long period of time.

[0057] <Fan> The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1 and generates an air flow in the first flow path P1. The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1 farther from the first inlet / outlet E1 than the heater 32 and the absorbent material 33. The fan 34 may be disposed in the housing 31 such that the rotation axis of the fan 34 is aligned along the direction from the upper surface to the lower surface of the housing 31.

[0058] The fan 34 can change its rotation direction. More specifically, the fan 34 can change its rotation direction between a first rotation direction X1 that generates an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction X2 that generates an air flow from the inside to the outside of the room. In the embodiment, the first rotation direction X1 is clockwise, and the second rotation direction X2 is counterclockwise.

[0059] For example, the fan 34 is a vortex fan shown in Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 3A is a top view of the vortex fan, and Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the vortex fan taken along line AA in Figure 3A.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, the fan 34 includes an impeller 41 and a casing 42. A flow path 43 through which air flows is formed between the impeller 41 and the casing 42. The impeller 41 has a plurality of blades 44 spaced apart from each other. The rotation direction of the impeller 41 is changeable. The casing 42 is provided with two inlet / outlets 45, 46 connected to the flow path 43. The inlet / outlets 45, 46 are connected to a first flow path P1. The inlet / outlets 45, 46 are oriented in directions parallel to each other. In addition, the flow path 43 between the inlet / outlets 45, 46 is narrow. With this configuration, air leakage can be prevented and the efficiency of the fan 34 can be improved.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 3A, the blade 44 is a plate-like member extending radially outward from the rotation center of the fan 34. The blade 44 may extend along a radial straight line extending radially outward from the rotation center of the fan 34. When the rotation direction of the impeller 41 is the first rotation direction X1, the plurality of blades 44 can send air from the inlet outlet 45 to the inlet outlet 46. Although not shown, when the rotation direction of the impeller 41 is the second rotation direction X2, the plurality of blades 44 can send air from the inlet outlet 46 to the inlet outlet 45. With this configuration, the fan 34 can send air in different directions. Furthermore, compared to other fans whose rotation direction can be changed, the fan 34 can easily generate a pressure rise. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent foreign matter such as dust from accumulating in the flow path 43.

[0062] <First damper> The first damper 35 is a member that switches the direction of air flow in the housing 31. As shown in Fig. 2, the first damper 35 is disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 are connected to each other.

[0063] The first damper 35 is rotatable. By rotating the first damper 35 in one direction, the second flow path P2 is closed, and the first inlet / outlet E1 can be communicated with the second inlet / outlet E2 or the fourth inlet / outlet E4. By rotating the first damper 35 in the other direction, the first flow path P1 on the first inlet / outlet E1 side is closed, and the second inlet / outlet E2 can be communicated with the third inlet / outlet E3.

[0064] <Second damper> The second damper 36 is a member that switches the direction of air flow in the housing 31. As shown in Fig. 2, the second damper 36 is disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the third flow path P3 are connected to each other.

[0065] The second damper 36 is rotatable. By rotating the second damper 36 in one direction, the third flow path P3 is closed, and the second inlet / outlet E2 is communicated with the first inlet / outlet E1 or the third inlet / outlet E3. By rotating the second damper 36 in the other direction, the first flow path P1 on the second inlet / outlet E2 side is closed, and the first inlet / outlet E1 is communicated with the fourth inlet / outlet E4.

[0066] <Controller> The controller 37 controls the operation modes described below in the ventilation device 30. The elements constituting the controller 37 may include, for example, a memory (not shown) that stores a program that causes these elements to function, and a processing circuit (not shown) corresponding to a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the processor may execute the program to function as these elements. More specifically, the controller 37 controls the rotation direction of the fan 34 and the rotation of the first damper 35 and the second damper 36.

[0067] A user selects an operation mode from a plurality of operation modes of the ventilation device 30 via the controller 37. The controller 37 executes one operation mode selected by the user. For example, when the user selects an operation of the ventilation device 30, the controller 37 executes a humidification operation, a dehumidification operation, and a ventilation operation. Note that the regeneration operation is executed based on the duration of the dehumidification operation and the amount of moisture held by the absorbent 33, not based on the user's operation.

[0068] Next, the operation modes of the ventilation device 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 4 to Fig. 8. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an intake ventilation operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an exhaust ventilation operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a humidification operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a dehumidification operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a regeneration operation of the ventilation device 30.

[0069] <Inhalation ventilation operation> In the intake ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outdoor air is sent into the room. The intake ventilation operation is performed in a state where the heater 32 is stopped (OFF state). The first damper 35 closes the first flow path P1 on the first inlet / outlet E1 side, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

[0070] 4, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the second flow path P2 through the third inlet / outlet E3, and is caused to flow toward the first flow path P1 by the first damper 35. There, the outdoor air passes through the fan 34, and is caused to flow toward the room through the first flow path P1 and the second inlet / outlet E2 by the second damper 36.

[0071] <Exhaust ventilation operation> In the exhaust ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in the second rotation direction X2, and the indoor air is blown out to the outside. In the intake ventilation operation, the heater 32 is stopped (OFF state). The first damper 35 closes the first flow path P1 on the first inlet / outlet E1 side, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

[0072] 5, room air flows from the room into the first flow path P1 through the second inlet / outlet E2, and is caused by the second damper 36 to flow through the first flow path P1 toward the fan 34. The room air passes through the fan 34, and is caused by the first damper 35 to flow through the second flow path P2 and the third inlet / outlet E3 toward the outside of the room.

[0073] <Humidification operation> In the humidifying operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outdoor air is sent into the room. In the heating operation, the heater 32 is operated (ON state). The first damper 35 closes the second flow path P2, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 6, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the first flow path P1 through the first inlet / outlet E1. The outdoor air is heated by the heater 32, and the heated outdoor air removes moisture held by the absorbent 33. The humidified outdoor air flows toward the room through the first flow path P1 and the second inlet / outlet E2 by the first damper 35 and the second damper 36.

[0075] <Dehumidification operation> In the dehumidifying operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outdoor air is sent into the room. The dehumidifying operation is performed in a state where the heater 32 is stopped (OFF state). The first damper 35 closes the second flow path P2, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

[0076] As shown in Fig. 7, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the first flow path P1 through the first inlet / outlet E1. The outdoor air passes through the absorbent 33 without being heated by the heater 32, and moisture in the outdoor air is thus collected by the absorbent 33. The dried outdoor air is caused by the first damper 35 and the second damper 36 to flow through the first flow path P1 and the second inlet / outlet E2 toward the room.

[0077] When the dehumidification operation continues, the absorbent 33 continues to capture moisture from the outdoor air. Therefore, the absorbent 33 may reach a saturated state where it cannot retain any more moisture. In this case, a regeneration operation is performed to regenerate the collection capacity of the absorbent 33.

[0078] <Regeneration operation> In the regeneration operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outdoor air is blown out to the outside. The regeneration operation is performed in a state in which the heater 32 is activated (ON state). The first damper 35 closes the second flow path P2, and the second damper 36 closes the first flow path P1 on the second inlet / outlet E2 side.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 8, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the first flow path P1 through the first inlet / outlet E1. The outdoor air is heated by the heater 32, and the heated air removes moisture held by the absorbent 33. This dries the absorbent 33, and the moisture collection capacity of the absorbent is restored. The humidified outdoor air is caused by the second damper 36 to flow toward the outside of the room through the third flow path P3 and the fourth inlet / outlet E4.

[0080] The regeneration operation is performed in conjunction with the dehumidification operation. Specifically, the regeneration operation is performed when the duration of the dehumidification operation is longer than the time required for the absorbent 33 to reach a saturated state. In this case, the dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation are performed alternately. This allows the dehumidification operation to continue intermittently.

[0081] The direction in which air flows during humidification operation and dehumidification operation may be referred to as the "first direction," the direction in which air flows during exhaust ventilation operation may be referred to as the "second direction," the direction in which air flows during intake ventilation operation may be referred to as the "third direction," and the direction in which air flows during regeneration operation may be referred to as the "fourth direction."

[0082] [effect] The ventilation device 30 according to the embodiment can provide the following effects.

[0083] The ventilation device 30 includes a first flow path P1, a heater 32, an absorbent 33, and a fan 34. The first flow path P1 connects a first inlet / outlet E1 connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet / outlet E2 connected to the indoor side. The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1, and is capable of changing a first rotation direction X1 that generates an air flow from the outdoor side to the indoor side and a second rotation direction X2 that generates an air flow from the indoor side to the outdoor side. The absorbent 33 is disposed on the first inlet / outlet E1 side of the fan 34 in the first flow path P1, and absorbs moisture in the air. The heater 32 is disposed on the first inlet / outlet E1 side of the absorbent 33 in the first flow path P1, and heats the air that is directed toward the absorbent 33. The ventilation device 30 executes operation modes including a humidification operation in which the heater 32 heats outdoor air, and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent and is directed toward the indoor side, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air is directed toward the outdoor side. In the humidification operation, the fan 34 rotates in a first rotation direction X1, and in the exhaust ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in a second rotation direction X2.

[0084] With this configuration, the ventilation device 30 can perform a humidification operation in which humidified outdoor air is sent into the room, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air is blown out to the outside, improving the ventilation function. In the exhaust ventilation operation, dirty indoor air can be easily exhausted to the outside, improving the cleanliness of the indoor air.

[0085] The operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater 32 is stopped and moisture is collected by the absorbent 33 and the dried outdoor air is directed into the room. In the dehumidification operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1.

[0086] With this configuration, the ventilation device 30 can further perform a dehumidification operation in which dried outdoor air is sent into the room, thereby improving the ventilation function.

[0087] The ventilation device 30 further includes a second flow path P2 connected between the fan 34 and the absorbent 33 in the first flow path P1, and a first damper 35 disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 are connected. The second flow path P2 is provided with a third inlet / outlet E3 connected to the outdoor side. The first damper 35 switches the direction of the air flowing through the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2.

[0088] With this configuration, the fan 34 can be connected to the outside of the room by the second flow path P2. Also, the second inlet / outlet E2 and the third inlet / outlet E3 can be communicated with each other without passing through the absorbent 33.

[0089] In the humidification operation, the first damper 35 switches the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet / outlet E1 to the first flow path P1 to a first direction toward the second inlet / outlet E2 through the first flow path P1. In the exhaust ventilation operation, the first damper 35 switches the flow direction of the indoor air flowing from the second inlet / outlet E2 to the first flow path P1 to a second direction toward the third inlet / outlet E3 through the second flow path P2.

[0090] With this configuration, the indoor air can be discharged to the outside through the second flow path P2 without passing through the absorbent material 33. This prevents contaminants such as fine particles and gas contained in the indoor air from adhering to the absorbent material 33.

[0091] The operation modes further include an intake ventilation operation in which air is supplied from the outside to the inside of the room. In the intake ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in a first rotation direction X1, and the first damper 35 switches the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the third inlet / outlet E3 to the second flow path P2 to a third direction toward the second inlet / outlet E2 through the first flow path P1.

[0092] With this configuration, the outdoor air can be sent into the room through the second flow path P2 without passing through the absorbent 33. Therefore, the absorbent 33 does not absorb excess moisture during the suction ventilation operation. Furthermore, since the suction ventilation operation is performed with the heater 32 stopped, the energy efficiency of the ventilation device 30 can be improved.

[0093] Furthermore, in the ventilation device 30, the dehumidification / humidification function and the ventilation function are independent of each other. In the intake ventilation and exhaust ventilation operations, the air does not pass through the heater 32 and the absorbent material 33, so that the air resistance of the ventilation device 30 can be reduced. Therefore, the efficiency of the fan 34 in the intake ventilation and exhaust ventilation operations can be improved.

[0094] The ventilation device 30 further includes a controller 37 for a user to select an operation mode. The operation mode selected by the user via the controller 37 is executed.

[0095] With this configuration, the ventilation device 30 can execute an appropriate operation mode in response to a user request. For example, when a user recognizes that dirty air is being generated indoors, the user can select exhaust ventilation operation, and the controller 37 can execute the exhaust ventilation operation.

[0096] The ventilation device 30 further includes a third flow path P3 connected between the fan 34 and the second inlet / outlet E2 in the first flow path P1, and a second damper 36 disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the third flow path P3 are connected. The third flow path P3 is provided with a fourth inlet / outlet E4 connected to the outdoor side. The second damper 36 switches the direction of air flowing through the first flow path P1 and the third flow path P3.

[0097] With this configuration, the outside air flowing through the first flow path P1 can be discharged to the outside of the room.

[0098] The operation mode further includes a regeneration operation in which the absorbent 33 is dried by heated outdoor air. In the regeneration operation, the fan 34 rotates in a first rotation direction X1, and the second damper 36 switches the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet / outlet E1 to the first flow path P1 to a fourth direction toward the fourth inlet / outlet E4 through the third flow path P3.

[0099] With this configuration, the absorbent material 33 can be dried by the inflow of outdoor air, and the moisture held in the absorbent material 33 can be discharged to the outside. Thus, the absorbent material 33 can be regenerated.

[0100] The dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation are performed alternately.

[0101] With this configuration, the dehumidifying operation can be performed continuously and intermittently.

[0102] The fan 34 is a vortex fan.

[0103] With this configuration, a pressure increase can be achieved in the fan 34, and the efficiency of the fan 34 can be improved.

[0104] The absorbent material 33 is a polymeric sorbent material.

[0105] With this configuration, the absorbent 33 absorbs moisture at a high speed, and therefore the efficiency of the dehumidification operation of the ventilation device 30 can be improved. In addition, the moisture held by the absorbent 33 can be desorbed at a low heating temperature. This improves the efficiency of the humidification and regeneration operations of the ventilation device 30. Furthermore, the absorbent 33 can hold moisture for a long period of time. This prevents the held water from flowing out into the ventilation device 30 over time and promoting corrosion of the ventilation device 30.

[0106] The system includes an indoor unit 10, an outdoor unit 20, and a ventilation device 30, and the ventilation device 30 is disposed in the outdoor unit 20.

[0107] Such a configuration can improve the ventilation function in the air conditioner 1. Furthermore, since the ventilation device 30 is disposed in the outdoor unit 20, it can be easily installed in an existing outdoor unit 20.

[0108] The ventilation device 30 is for an air conditioner 1 equipped with an indoor unit 10 and an outdoor unit 20. The ventilation device 30 includes a first flow path P1 and a fan 34. The first flow path P1 connects a first inlet / outlet E1 connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet / outlet E2 connected to the indoor side. The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1, and is capable of changing between a first rotation direction X1 that generates an air flow from the outdoors to the indoors, and a second rotation direction X2 that generates an air flow from the indoors to the outdoors.

[0109] With this configuration, the air conditioner 1 can perform an intake ventilation operation in which outdoor air is sent into the room, as well as an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air is blown out to the outside, thereby improving the ventilation function.

[0110] The first flow path P1 may also be referred to as a "flow path."

[0111] In the embodiment, an air conditioner 1 including the ventilation device 30 will be described, but the invention is not limited to the air conditioner 1. The ventilation device 30 may be applied to other devices.

[0112] In the embodiment, the fan 34 is a vortex fan, but the present invention is not limited to this. The fan 34 may be another type of fan that can change the direction of rotation.

[0113] In the embodiment, an example in which the controller 37 executes one operation mode selected by the user will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The ventilation device 30 may further include a sensor that measures humidity, and the controller 37 may switch the operation mode depending on the humidity measured by the sensor. For example, when the indoor humidity measured by the sensor falls below a certain threshold, the controller 37 executes a humidification operation. The sensor may also measure an air-related parameter other than humidity.

[0114] In the embodiment, the first damper 35 and the second damper 36 are rotatable, but the present invention is not limited to this. The first damper 35 and the second damper 36 may be dampers different from the damper that rotates. Furthermore, the first damper 35 and the second damper 36 may be an opening and closing mechanism.

[0115] In the embodiment, an example in which the regeneration operation is performed in conjunction with the dehumidification operation has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The regeneration operation may be performed depending on the state of the absorbent 33. For example, if the absorbent 33 has not yet reached a saturated state after the dehumidification operation has been performed, the regeneration operation may not be performed. In addition, if the duration of the dehumidification operation is short, or if a humidification operation is performed after the dehumidification operation has been performed, the regeneration operation may not be performed.

[0116] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications should be understood to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims, unless they depart therefrom. [Industrial Applicability]

[0117] The ventilator of the present disclosure is useful as a ventilator for an air conditioner. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 1. Air conditioner 10 Indoor unit 11 1st heat exchanger 12 Indoor fan 13 Air outlet 20 Outdoor unit 21 Second heat exchanger 22 Outdoor fan 23 Compressor 24 Expansion valve 30 Ventilation system 31 Case 32 Heater 33 Absorbent material 34 Fans 35 First damper 36 Second damper 37 Controller P1 First flow path P2 Second flow path P3 Third flow path E1 1st inflow outlet E2 2nd inlet outlet E3 3rd inflow outlet E4 4th inflow outlet

Claims

1. A first flow path connecting a first inlet / outlet connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet / outlet connected to the indoor side; a fan disposed in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction for generating an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction for generating an air flow from the inside of the room to the outside of the room; an absorbent material that is disposed on the first inlet / outlet side of the fan in the first flow path and absorbs moisture in the air; a heater that is disposed on the first inlet / outlet side of the absorbent in the first flow path and heats air flowing toward the absorbent; A third inlet / outlet connected to the outdoor side, the first flow path between the fan and the absorbent, and a second flow path connected to the first flow path; Equipped with a humidification operation in which the heater heats the outdoor air passing through the first flow path, and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent material and flows into the room; an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air bypasses the absorbent material and passes through the second flow path toward the outside of the room; The ventilation device, wherein the fan rotates in the first rotation direction in the humidification operation, and the fan rotates in the second rotation direction in the exhaust ventilation operation.

2. The operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater is stopped and the outdoor air, which has been dried by capturing moisture in the absorbent, is directed toward the room. The ventilation device according to claim 1 , wherein the fan rotates in the first rotation direction in the dehumidifying operation.

3. Further comprising a first damper arranged at a position where the first flow path and the second flow path are connected; The first damper switches a direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the second flow path.

3. A ventilation device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first damper is In the humidifying operation, a flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet / outlet to the first flow path is switched to a first direction toward the second inlet / outlet through the first flow path; The ventilation device according to claim 3, wherein in the exhaust ventilation operation, a flow direction of the indoor air flowing from the second inlet / outlet to the first flow path is switched to a second direction toward the third inlet / outlet through the second flow path.

5. The operation mode further includes an intake ventilation operation for supplying air from the outside to the room, In the intake ventilation operation, The fan rotates in the first rotational direction, The ventilation device according to claim 4 , wherein the first damper switches a flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the third inlet / outlet to the second flow path, to a third direction toward the second inlet / outlet through the first flow path.

6. a controller for user selection of the operating mode; 6. The ventilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the operating mode selected by a user via the controller is executed.

7. a third flow path connected between the fan and the second inlet / outlet in the first flow path; a second damper disposed at a position where the first flow path and the third flow path are connected, The third flow path is provided with a fourth inlet / outlet connected to the outdoor side, The second damper switches a direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the third flow path.

3. A ventilation device according to claim 2.

8. The operation mode further includes a regeneration operation in which the absorbent material is dried by the heated outdoor air, In the regeneration operation, The fan rotates in the first rotational direction, The ventilation device according to claim 7 , wherein the second damper switches a flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet / outlet to the first flow path to a fourth direction toward the fourth inlet / outlet through the third flow path.

9. The ventilation device according to claim 8 , wherein the dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation are performed alternately.

10. 10. The ventilation device according to claim 1, wherein the fan is a vortex fan.

11. 11. A ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the absorbent material is a polymeric sorbent material.

12. An indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and the ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, The ventilation device is disposed in the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

13. A first flow path connecting a first inlet / outlet connected to an outside of the room and a second inlet / outlet connected to an inside of the room; a fan disposed in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction for generating an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction for generating an air flow from the inside of the room to the outside of the room; an absorbent material that is disposed on the first inlet / outlet side of the fan in the first flow path and absorbs moisture in the air; a heater that is disposed on the first inlet / outlet side of the absorbent in the first flow path and heats air flowing toward the absorbent; Equipped with A humidification operation in which the heater heats outdoor air, and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent material and flows into the room; and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air is directed to the outside of the room. In the humidification operation, the fan rotates in the first rotation direction, and in the exhaust ventilation operation, the fan rotates in the second rotation direction, The operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater is stopped and the outdoor air, which has been dried by capturing moisture in the absorbent, is directed toward the room. In the dehumidifying operation, the fan rotates in the first rotation direction, a third flow path connected between the fan and the second inlet / outlet in the first flow path; a second damper disposed at a position where the first flow path and the third flow path are connected, The third flow path is provided with a fourth inlet / outlet connected to the outdoor side, The second damper switches the direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the third flow path.

Images