Humidifier

Abstract

To restrain a decrease in the amount of moisture adsorbed to a humidifying rotor when the relative humidity of outdoor air is low.SOLUTION: A humidifying unit 4 comprises a humidifying rotor 41, a first motor 41m, and a control unit 9. The humidifying rotor 41 comprises an adsorbing region 41a for adsorbing moisture, and a desorbing region 41b for desorbing the moisture. The first motor 41m rotates the humidifying rotor 41. The control unit 9 controls the first motor 41m. The control unit 9 acquires first information related to the relative humidity of outdoor air for causing the humidifying rotor 41 to adsorb the moisture. The control unit 9 drives the first motor 41m at a first rotation speed when determining that the relative humidity is higher than a threshold value, and drives the first motor 41m at a second rotation speed lower than the first rotation speed when determining that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Regarding humidifiers. [Background technology]

[0002] Air conditioners that use polymeric sorbents for humidification are known. For example, Patent Document 1 (JP 2023-043971 A) discloses an air conditioner that performs efficient humidification operation based on the outdoor relative humidity by controlling the rotation speed of a polymeric sorbent, which is an absorbent material. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The amount of moisture sorbed into the polymer sorbent depends on the relative humidity of the air passing through. In the air conditioner of Patent Document 1 (JP 2023-043971 A), when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the amount of moisture sorbed into the polymer sorbent decreases, and there is a possibility that sufficient humidification cannot be achieved. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] A humidifier according to a first aspect generates humidified air by sorbing and desorbing moisture onto a polymer material. The humidifier includes a rotor for humidification, a first motor, and a control unit. The rotor has a sorption region for sorbing moisture and a desorption region for desorbing moisture. The first motor rotates the rotor. The control unit controls the first motor. The control unit acquires first information related to the relative humidity of outdoor air from which moisture is to be sorbed onto the rotor. If the control unit determines that the relative humidity is higher than a threshold, it drives the first motor at a first rotation speed, and if the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, it drives the first motor at a second rotation speed that is lower than the first rotation speed.

[0005] In the humidifier of the first aspect, the rotor rotation speed is reduced when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, and the speed of the rotor passing through the sorption region is therefore slowed down, thereby making it possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed by the rotor.

[0006] A humidifier according to a second aspect is the humidifier according to the first aspect, further comprising a sorption fan and a second motor. The sorption fan generates an air flow in the sorption region. The second motor rotates the sorption fan. When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, the control unit further increases the rotation speed of the second motor.

[0007] In the humidifier of the second aspect, such a configuration increases the amount of air flowing through the sorption region when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, making it possible to suppress a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed by the rotor.

[0008] A humidifier according to a third aspect is the humidifier according to the first or second aspect, further comprising a humidifying fan and a third motor. The humidifying fan generates an air flow in the attachment / detachment area. The third motor rotates the humidifying fan. When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, the control unit further increases the rotation speed of the third motor.

[0009] If the rotor rotation speed is reduced when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the rotor tends to overheat in the desorption area. With this configuration, the humidifier of the third aspect increases the amount of air flowing through the desorption area when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, thereby preventing the rotor from overheating.

[0010] A fourth aspect of the humidifier is the humidifier of any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a heater. The heater heats the air flowing toward the desorption area. When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, the control unit further reduces the output of the heater.

[0011] In the humidifier of the fourth aspect, such a configuration makes it possible to prevent the rotor from becoming excessively heated when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low.

[0012] A humidifier according to a fifth aspect is the humidifier according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the polymer material is hydrophobic at a first temperature or higher and hydrophilic at a temperature lower than the first temperature.

[0013] In the humidifier of the fifth aspect, by using a temperature responsive polymer material, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed on the rotor.

[0014] A humidifier device of a sixth aspect is a humidifier device of any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect, wherein the sorption region has a first region where the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, and a second region where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic.

[0015] In the humidifier of the sixth aspect, the rotor is rotated at a low speed when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, so that the polymer material in the sorption region can change from hydrophobic to hydrophilic.

[0016] A seventh aspect of the humidifier is the humidifier of any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a sorption path, a desorption path, and a switching mechanism. The sorption path passes air through the sorption region. The desorption path passes air through the desorption region. The switching mechanism switches the size of the sorption region. The sorption path and the desorption path are separated by a partition member. The switching mechanism changes the size of the sorption region by moving the partition member.

[0017] In the humidifier of the seventh aspect, such a configuration makes it possible to change the size of the sorption region.

[0018] A humidifier according to an eighth aspect is the humidifier according to the seventh aspect, wherein the control unit, when determining that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold value, further controls the switching mechanism to increase the sorption region.

[0019] In the humidifier of the eighth aspect, such a configuration increases the sorption area when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, making it possible to suppress a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed by the rotor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external view of an air conditioning device. [Figure 2]1 is a diagram showing a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner and an air supply flow path for humidified air. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an annular region in which a humidifying rotor is arranged. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the first switching mechanism in a first state. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the sorption region and the desorption region when the first switching mechanism is in the first state. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the first switching mechanism in a second state. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the sorption region and the desorption region when the first switching mechanism is in the second state. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a second switching mechanism. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the second switching mechanism is switched. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the air conditioning apparatus. [Figure 10A] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the flow of humidification control of the air conditioning apparatus. [Figure 10B] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the flow of humidification control of the air conditioning apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] (1) Overall structure Fig. 1 is an external view of an air conditioner 100 including a humidifying unit 4 (humidifier) ​​according to one embodiment. The air conditioner 100 uses a vapor compression refrigerant cycle to condition the indoor space (not shown) of a building or the like, which is the target space. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the air conditioner 100 mainly has a heat source unit 2, a utilization unit 3, a humidifying unit 4, a liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5, a gas refrigerant connection pipe 6, an air supply hose 7, a remote control 8, and a control unit 9.

[0022] The liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5 and the gas refrigerant connection pipe 6 connect the heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 3. The equipment and refrigerant piping in the heat source unit 2, the equipment and refrigerant piping in the utilization unit 3, the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5, and the gas refrigerant connection pipe 6 are connected in a ring shape by refrigerant piping to form a refrigerant circuit 10. The refrigerant circuit 10 has a refrigerant sealed inside.

[0023] The air intake hose 7 connects the humidifying unit 4 and the utilization unit 3. The air intake hose 7 is a member that supplies humidified outdoor air (humidified air) from the humidifying unit 4 to the utilization unit 3.

[0024] Although details will be described later, a control unit 9 shown in FIG. 9 controls each device of the air conditioner 100 to perform air conditioning operations such as heating operation, cooling operation, and humidifying operation.

[0025] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Heat source unit The heat source unit 2 is installed outdoors (on the roof of a building, near the exterior wall of a building, etc.) The heat source unit 2 mainly includes a compressor 21, a four-way switching valve 23, a heat source heat exchanger 24, a heat source expansion valve 25, and a heat source fan 26.

[0026] (2-1-1) Compressor In the refrigerant circuit 10, the compressor 21 draws low-pressure refrigerant from a refrigerant pipe 21a on the suction side, compresses it to a high pressure, and then discharges it to a refrigerant pipe 21b on the discharge side.

[0027] (2-1-2) Four-way switching valve The four-way switching valve 23 switches the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigerant circuit 10. The four-way switching valve 23 has a first port P1, a second port P2, a third port P3, and a fourth port P4. The four-way switching valve 23 is switched by the control unit 9 between a first state (a state indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 2) in which the first port P1 and the fourth port P4 are connected to each other and the second port P2 and the third port P3 are connected to each other, and a second state (a state indicated by solid lines in FIG. 2) in which the first port P1 and the second port P2 are connected to each other and the third port P3 and the fourth port P4 are connected to each other.

[0028] The first port P1 is connected to the refrigerant pipe 21b on the discharge side of the compressor 21. The second port P2 is connected to the gas side of the heat source heat exchanger 24. The third port P3 is connected to the refrigerant pipe 21a on the suction side of the compressor 21. The fourth port P4 is connected to the gas refrigerant connection pipe 6.

[0029] (2-1-3) Heat source heat exchanger The heat source heat exchanger 24 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air in the refrigerant circuit 10. One end of the heat source heat exchanger 24 is connected to the heat source expansion valve 25. The other end of the heat source heat exchanger 24 is connected to the second port P2 of the four-way switching valve 23.

[0030] (2-1-4) Heat source expansion valve The heat source expansion valve 25 is an expansion mechanism that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit 10. The heat source expansion valve 25 is provided between the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 5 and the liquid side of the heat source heat exchanger 24. The heat source expansion valve 25 is an electric expansion valve whose opening degree can be controlled. The opening degree of the heat source expansion valve 25 is controlled by the control unit 9.

[0031] (2-1-5) Heat source fan The heat source fan 26 generates an airflow and supplies outdoor air to the heat source heat exchanger 24. The heat source fan 26 supplies outdoor air to the heat source heat exchanger 24, thereby promoting heat exchange between the refrigerant in the heat source heat exchanger 24 and the outdoor air. The heat source fan 26 is rotationally driven by a heat source fan motor 26m. The airflow rate of the heat source fan 26 is controlled by the control unit 9 by changing the rotation speed of the heat source fan motor 26m.

[0032] (2-2) Usage unit The utilization unit 3 is a wall-mounted indoor air conditioner that is installed on a wall in a room that is a target space. The utilization unit 3 mainly has a utilization heat exchanger 31, a utilization fan 32, and an intake air duct 38.

[0033] (2-2-1) Heat exchanger used The utilization heat exchanger 31 exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the indoor air in the refrigerant circuit 10. One end of the utilization heat exchanger 31 is connected to the liquid refrigerant connection pipe 5. The other end of the utilization heat exchanger 31 is connected to the gas refrigerant connection pipe 6. The utilization heat exchanger 31 is, for example, a cross-fin fin-and-tube heat exchanger made up of heat transfer tubes and heat transfer fins, although this is not limited thereto.

[0034] The utilization heat exchanger 31 is disposed in the flow path of the airflow generated by the utilization fan 32. Specifically, the utilization fan 32 is disposed so as to cover the front and top of the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0035] (2-2-2) Fans in use The utilization fan 32 is a blower that generates an airflow. When the utilization fan 32 generates an airflow, the indoor air passes through the utilization heat exchanger 31. When the indoor air passes through the utilization heat exchanger 31, heat exchange between the refrigerant in the utilization heat exchanger 31 and the outdoor air is promoted.

[0036] The utilization fan 32 is a cross-flow fan. The utilization fan 32 is rotationally driven by a utilization fan motor 32m. The air volume of the utilization fan 32 is controlled by the control unit 9 by changing the rotation speed of the utilization fan motor 32m.

[0037] When the utilization fan 32 is activated, indoor air is sucked into the casing from the space above the utilization unit 3, passes through the utilization heat exchanger 31 for heat exchange, and then flows into the room through an air outlet formed at the bottom of the casing.

[0038] (2-2-3) Air supply duct The air intake duct 38 is a member that supplies humidified air supplied from the humidification unit 4 via the air intake hose 7 to a space near the utilization heat exchanger 31 in the utilization unit 3. One end of the air intake duct 38 is connected to the air intake hose 7, and the opening at the other end of the air intake duct 38 faces the upper surface of the utilization heat exchanger 31.

[0039] (2-3) Humidification unit The humidification unit 4 is a device that humidifies outdoor air and supplies it as humidified air to the utilization units 3. The humidification unit 4 is installed outdoors (on the roof of a building, near the exterior wall of a building, etc.) together with the heat source unit 2. The heat source unit 2 and the humidification unit 4 may be integrated together. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the humidification unit 4 mainly includes a resin casing 40, a humidification rotor 41, a heater 42, a humidification fan 43, a sorption fan 44, a desorption path 45, a sorption path 46, and a humidification amount adjustment unit 80. The humidification rotor 41, the heater 42, the humidification fan 43, the sorption fan 44, the humidification amount adjustment unit 80, etc. are fixed or supported within the casing 40, and the desorption path 45 and the sorption path 46 are formed within the casing 40.

[0040] (2-3-1) Humidification rotor The humidifying rotor 41 is a rotor for humidification, having a sorption region 41a that sorbs moisture from outdoor air and a desorption region 41b that desorbs the sorbed moisture by heating. The humidifying rotor 41 has a honeycomb structure and a generally disc-shaped outer shape. The humidifying rotor 41 is manufactured using a temperature-responsive polymer material that sorbs moisture from air at room temperature and desorbs moisture when exposed to heated air or the like and its temperature rises. The temperature-responsive polymer material reversibly changes its affinity for water in response to heat. The temperature at which this reversible change in affinity for water occurs is called the lower critical solution temperature (LCST). The polymer material becomes hydrophobic and desorbs moisture when the temperature is equal to or higher than the first temperature, which is the lower critical solution temperature, and becomes hydrophilic and sorbs moisture when the temperature is lower than the first temperature. The lower critical solution temperature is adjusted to a temperature between 60°C and 100°C. The polymer material can desorb the moisture it holds at a lower heating temperature than adsorbents such as silica gel and zeolite, so the amount of heat generated by the heater 42 can be reduced.

[0041] The humidification rotor 41 is rotatably provided inside the humidification unit 4 and is rotated by a first motor 41m. The first motor 41m is an inverter-controlled motor with a variable rotation speed, and the rotation speed is controlled by the control unit 9. The rotation of the first motor 41m is transmitted via a gear 49 to a plurality of teeth formed on the outer peripheral surface of the humidification rotor 41, causing the humidification rotor 41 to rotate (see arrow Y in Figures 3 and 4). A central hole 47 of the humidification rotor 41 is fitted into a cylindrical portion 48 that protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the casing 40. In this state, the humidification rotor 41 is rotatably supported by the casing 40, including the cylindrical portion 48.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 4, the annular humidification rotor 41 is disposed in the annular region A0. The annular region A0 is an annular space in which the humidification rotor 41 is disposed. The left half of the annular region A0 is a first sorption region A1, the upper portion of the right half of the annular region A0 is a first desorption region A2, the central portion of the right half of the annular region A0 is a second desorption region A3, and the lower portion of the right half of the annular region A0 is a switching region A4. The first sorption region A1 constitutes the sorption region 41a. The first desorption region A2 and the second desorption region A3 constitute the desorption region 41b. The switching region A4 is switched between the sorption region 41a and the desorption region 41b by a humidification amount adjustment unit 80, which will be described later.

[0043] The sorption region 41a is a region through which outdoor air passes from bottom to top through the humidifying rotor 41. The humidifying rotor 41 sorbs moisture contained in the outdoor air in the sorption region 41a. The sorption region 41a has a first region where the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, and a second region where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic. The sorption region 41a is part of a sorption path 46, which will be described later.

[0044] The desorption area 41b is an area where moisture held by the humidifying rotor 41 is desorbed and released into the outdoor air to generate humidified air. In the first desorption area A2, outdoor air passes through the humidifying rotor 41 from the bottom (the first inlet 45a side) to the top (the heater 42 side). In the second detachment area A3 and the switching area A4 switched to the detachment area 41b (hereinafter referred to as the post-heating detachment area A5), outdoor air passes through the humidifying rotor 41 from the top (the heater 42 side) to the bottom (the humidifying fan 43 side). The detachment area 41b is part of a desorption path 45, which will be described later.

[0045] The polymer material that makes up the humidifying rotor 41 reversibly changes its affinity for water as it rotates in the direction of arrow Y. Specifically, the polymer material is exposed to heated air in the desorption region 41b, where it reaches a temperature equal to or higher than a first temperature, changing from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. The hydrophobic polymer material desorbs the sorbed moisture and releases it into the passing air, generating humidified air. The polymer material that moves from the desorption region 41b to the sorption region 41a as the humidifying rotor 41 rotates is cooled by the outdoor air passing through the humidifying rotor 41 from bottom to top, changing from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. The hydrophilic polymer material sorbs moisture contained in the outdoor air.

[0046] (2-3-2) Heater Heater 42 heats the air flowing toward humidifying rotor 41 (outdoor air taken into casing 40). Specifically, heater 42 is provided in desorption path 45 and heats the outdoor air that enters casing 40 through first inlet 45a formed on the back surface of casing 40 and passes through humidifying rotor 41 in first desorption area A2. The heated outdoor air passes through humidifying rotor 41 in post-heating desorption area A5 and is drawn into humidifying fan 43.

[0047] The heater 42 has a variable output, and the amount of heat is controlled by the control unit 9.

[0048] (2-3-3) Humidifying fan The humidifying fan 43 is a blower that causes outdoor air to flow from the first inlet 45a into the detachment path 45 inside the casing 40 and supplies the outdoor air to the air intake hose 7. The humidifying fan 43 generates an airflow in the detachment area 41b that causes the outdoor air to pass through the humidifying rotor 41, and humidifies the outdoor air with the moisture desorbed from the humidifying rotor 41. The humidified outdoor air flows from the outlet 43b of the humidifying fan 43 to the air intake hose 7 as humidified air.

[0049] The humidifying fan 43 is rotated by a third motor 43m. The third motor 43m is an inverter-controlled motor with a variable rotation speed, and the rotation speed is controlled by the control unit 9.

[0050] (2-3-4) Sorption fan Sorption fan 44 is a blower (sirocco fan) that draws outdoor air from second inlets 46a and 46b into sorption path 46 inside casing 40 and directs the outdoor air toward humidification rotor 41. As described above, when sorption fan 44 rotates, outdoor air passes through humidification rotor 41 from bottom to top in sorption region 41a.

[0051] The sorption fan 44 is rotated by a second motor 44m. The second motor 44m is an inverter-controlled motor with a variable rotation speed, and the rotation speed is controlled by the control unit 9.

[0052] (2-3-5) Desorption route The desorption path 45 formed inside the casing 40 is a ventilation path that supplies the outdoor air that has passed through the humidifying rotor 41 to the humidifying fan 43. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2, the desorption path 45 is a path that connects the first intake port 45a, the first desorption area A2, the heater 42, the post-heating desorption area A5, and the first exhaust port 45e in this order.

[0053] The first inlet 45a is an opening formed on the back surface of the casing 40. Outdoor air flows into the desorption path 45 through the first inlet 45a and passes through the humidification rotor 41 in the first desorption area A2. The outdoor air heated by the heater 42 passes through the humidification rotor 41 in the post-heating desorption area A5, and moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor 41 is desorbed and released into the passing air. The first outlet 45e is connected to the humidification fan 43. The outdoor air humidified by the moisture desorbed from the humidification rotor 41 flows into the humidification fan 43 through the first outlet 45e.

[0054] (2-3-6) Sorption pathway The sorption path 46 formed inside the casing 40 is a ventilation path that causes moisture contained in the incoming outdoor air to be sorbed by the humidification rotor 41. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2, the sorption path 46 is a path that connects the second intake ports 46a, 46b, the sorption region 41a, the sorption fan 44, and the second exhaust port 46e in this order.

[0055] The second inlets 46a, 46b are openings formed in the centers of the front and back surfaces of the casing 40. Outdoor air flows into the sorption path 46 through the second inlets 46a, 46b. In the sorption region 41a, the outdoor air passes through the humidification rotor 41. At this time, moisture contained in the outdoor air is sorbed by the humidification rotor 41. The second outlet 46e is an opening formed on the left side of the front surface of the casing 40. The air with moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor 41 passes through the sorption fan 44 and further through the second outlet 46e to be blown out of the casing 40 from the sorption path 46.

[0056] (2-3-7) Humidification amount adjustment section The humidification amount adjustment unit 80 is a switching mechanism that switches the size of the sorption region 41a. The humidification amount adjustment unit 80 constitutes part of the sorption path 46 and part of the desorption path 45, and is disposed opposite the humidification rotor 41. The humidification amount adjustment unit 80 has a first switching mechanism 81 disposed above the humidification rotor 41 and a second switching mechanism 82 disposed below the humidification rotor 41.

[0057] The first switching mechanism 81 is a part of the attachment / detachment path 45, and is a mechanism that can switch the size of the heated air flow path 45c through which air blown from the heater 42 flows toward the humidification rotor 41. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 6A , the first switching mechanism 81 has a fixed part 83, a movable part 84, and a drive part 85.

[0058] The fixing portion 83 has a substantially fan-shaped base portion 83a, an outer peripheral portion 83b standing from the outer peripheral edge of the base portion 83a, and a wall portion 83c standing from the end edge of the base portion 83a, and is capable of housing the heater 42 therein. The wall portion 83c of the fixing portion 83 separates the post-sorption air flow path 46d from the pre-heating air flow path 45b. The post-sorption air flow path 46d is part of the sorption path 46 and is a flow path through which air flows after passing through the humidification rotor 41 and reaches the sorption fan 44. The pre-heating air flow path 45b is part of the detachment path 45 and is a flow path through which air flows after passing through the humidification rotor 41 and reaches the heater 42.

[0059] The movable portion 84 has a generally fan-shaped base portion 84a, an outer peripheral portion 84b standing from the outer peripheral edge of the base portion 84a, and a wall portion 84c standing from the edge of the base portion 84a. The wall portion 84c of the movable portion 84 is a partition member that separates the post-sorption air flow path 46d from the heated air flow path 45c.

[0060] The drive unit 85 drives a drive motor (not shown). The rotation of the drive motor is transmitted via gear 85a to a plurality of teeth 85b formed on the outer circumferential portion 84b, and the movable portion 84 moves to house the fixed portion 83 therein. In this way, the first switching mechanism 81 switches the sizes of the heated air flow path 45c and the post-sorption air flow path 46d.

[0061] In this embodiment, the first switching mechanism 81 is set to either a first state shown in FIG. 5A or a second state shown in FIG. 6A.

[0062] 7 and 8, the second switching mechanism 82 has a drive unit 86 and a restriction unit 87. The drive unit 86 includes a substantially cylindrical main body 86a that is rotated by a drive motor 88, and a partition plate 86b that extends from the main body 86a in a direction intersecting the rotation axis.

[0063] The partition plate 86b is a partition member that separates the sorption path 46 from the desorption path 45. Specifically, the partition plate 86b separates the pre-sorption air flow path 46c from the humidified air flow path 45d. The pre-sorption air flow path 46c is part of the sorption path 46 and is a flow path through which air flows from the second inlets 46a, 46b until it passes through the humidification rotor 41. The humidified air flow path 45d is part of the desorption path 45 and is a flow path through which air flows that has passed through the humidification rotor 41 via the heated air flow path 45c.

[0064] The restricting portion 87 is a substantially cylindrical member that restricts the rotation of the driving portion 86. In this embodiment, the restricting portion 87 restricts the movable range of the partition plate 86b so that it substantially matches the movable range of the movable portion 84 of the first switching mechanism 81. In the second switching mechanism 82, the driving portion 86 rotates and moves the partition plate 86b, thereby switching the sizes of the pre-sorption air flow path 46c and the humidified air flow path 45d.

[0065] In this embodiment, the second switching mechanism 82 is set to either a third state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 8 or a fourth state indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG.

[0066] When first switching mechanism 81 is in the first state, control unit 9 controls humidification amount adjustment unit 80 so that second switching mechanism 82 is in the third state. Furthermore, when first switching mechanism 81 is in the second state, control unit 9 controls humidification amount adjustment unit 80 so that second switching mechanism 82 is in the fourth state.

[0067] When first switching mechanism 81 is in the first state and second switching mechanism 82 is in the third state, switching region A4 is switched to desorption region 41b, and the size of sorption region 41a is reduced as shown in Fig. 5B. When first switching mechanism 81 is in the second state and second switching mechanism 82 is in the fourth state, switching region A4 is switched to sorption region 41a, and the size of sorption region 41a is increased as shown in Fig. 6B.

[0068] (2-4) Remote Control The remote control 8 receives instructions from the user to perform air conditioning operations such as heating operation, cooling operation, and humidification operation, instructions to stop the air conditioner 100, and setting values ​​such as the set humidity, and transmits the received results as control signals to the control unit 9. The control unit 9 records the received setting values ​​in a storage device.

[0069] (2-5) Control unit 9, the control unit 9 is mainly connected to the compressor 21, the four-way switching valve 23, the heat source expansion valve 25, the heat source fan motor 26m, the utilization fan motor 32m, the first motor 41m, the second motor 44m, the third motor 43m, the heater 42, the humidification amount adjustment unit 80, the remote control 8, and the outdoor humidity sensor 92. The outdoor humidity sensor 92 is a sensor that measures the relative humidity of the outdoor air.

[0070] Although details will be described later, the control unit 9 controls the refrigerant circuit 10 by controlling the operation of the compressor 21, the four-way switching valve 23, the heat-source expansion valve 25, the heat-source fan motor 26m, and the utilization fan motor 32m. In addition, the control unit 9 adjusts the amount of humidification by controlling the humidification amount adjustment unit 80 during humidification operation.

[0071] The control unit 9 is typically realized by a computer including a control and arithmetic device and a storage device (both not shown). The control and arithmetic device is a processor such as a CPU or a GPU. The control and arithmetic device reads a control program stored in the storage device and controls operation in accordance with this control program. Furthermore, the control and arithmetic device can write calculation results to the storage device and read information stored in the storage device in accordance with the control program.

[0072] (3) Air conditioning operation Next, the heating operation, cooling operation, and humidifying operation, which are the air conditioning operations performed by the control unit 9, will be described.

[0073] (3-1) Heating operation The control unit 9 starts the heating operation when it receives a control signal from the remote control 8 instructing it to perform the heating operation. During the heating operation, the control unit 9 switches the four-way switching valve 23 to the first state (see the dashed line in FIG. 2). Furthermore, the control unit 9 sets the heat source expansion valve 25 to an opening corresponding to the set temperature received from the remote control 8, operates the compressor 21, and drives the utilization fan 32 to rotate. As a result, the heat source heat exchanger 24 functions as an evaporator of the refrigerant, and the utilization heat exchanger 31 functions as a condenser of the refrigerant.

[0074] (3-2) Cooling operation The control unit 9 starts the cooling operation when it receives a control signal from the remote controller 8 instructing it to perform the cooling operation. During the cooling operation, the control unit 9 switches the four-way switching valve 23 to the second state (see the solid line in FIG. 2). Furthermore, the control unit 9 sets the heat source expansion valve 25 to an opening corresponding to the set temperature received from the remote controller 8, operates the compressor 21, and drives the utilization fan 32 to rotate. As a result, the heat source heat exchanger 24 functions as a refrigerant condenser, and the utilization heat exchanger 31 functions as a refrigerant evaporator.

[0075] (3-3) Humidification operation Humidification operation is an air conditioning operation in which humidified air obtained by humidifying outdoor air is used to humidify the indoor space, which is the target space for air conditioning. The control unit 9 starts the humidification operation when it receives a control signal from the remote control 8 instructing it to perform the humidification operation. During the humidification operation, the control unit 9 causes the humidification fan 43 and the sorption fan 44 to blow air, causes the heater 42 to heat the outdoor air flowing through the desorption path 45, and drives the utilization fan 32 to rotate. While the humidification operation is being performed, the refrigerant circuit 10 can perform heating operation or cooling operation.

[0076] During humidification operation, the humidification unit 4 functions as follows.

[0077] As the sorption fan 44 rotates, outdoor air flows into the sorption path 46 from the second inlets 46a, 46b. The outdoor air that has flowed into the sorption path 46 passes through the rotating humidification rotor 41 in the sorption region 41a. As the outdoor air passes through the humidification rotor 41, moisture contained in the outdoor air is sorbed by the humidification rotor 41. The outdoor air with moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor 41 is discharged to the outside of the humidification unit 4 from the second exhaust port 46e.

[0078] Meanwhile, as the humidifying fan 43 rotates, outdoor air flows into the desorption path 45 from the first inlet 45a. The outdoor air that has flowed into the desorption path 45 passes through the humidifying rotor 41 in the first desorption area A2, is heated by the heater 42, and then passes through the rotating humidifying rotor 41 in the post-heating desorption area A5. As the heated outdoor air passes through the humidifying rotor 41, moisture sorbed by the humidifying rotor 41 is desorbed. As a result, the outdoor air that has passed through the humidifying rotor 41 is humidified to become humidified air, and then flows into the humidifying fan 43. The humidified air that has flowed into the humidifying fan 43 flows through the air intake hose 7 into the air intake duct 38 of the utilization unit 3, and then passes through the utilization heat exchanger 31 to be supplied into the room. The utilization fan 32 of the utilization unit 3 generates an airflow within the utilization unit 3 while humidified air is being supplied from the humidifying unit 4. The humidified air supplied to the utilization unit 3 from the air supply hose 7 is combined with the air flow passing through the utilization heat exchanger 31 and is blown out from the air outlet of the utilization unit 3 into the room.

[0079] The outdoor air that flows into the desorption path 45 from the first inlet 45a is mainly humidified in the post-heating desorption area A5, but is also slightly humidified in the first desorption area A2.

[0080] (3-3-1) Humidification operation control Next, the control of the first motor 41m, the second motor 44m, the third motor 43m, the heater 42, and the humidification amount adjuster 80 during humidification operation will be described with reference to Figures 10A and 10B. Note that the flowcharts shown in Figures 10A and 10B are merely examples and may be modified as appropriate within a consistent range. For example, other steps not shown may be included before or after each step, and the order of each step may be modified as appropriate within a consistent range.

[0081] The control unit 9 also controls the motors 41m, 44m, and 43m and the heater 42 inside the casing 40, and is one of the components of the humidifying unit 4.

[0082] When an instruction to perform the humidification operation is given, in step S11, the control unit 9 acquires the outdoor humidity measured by the outdoor humidity sensor 92 as first information, and then proceeds to step S12.

[0083] In step S12, the control unit 9 determines whether the outdoor humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold value. If the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold value, the process proceeds to step S13. If the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is higher than the threshold value, the process proceeds to step S20.

[0084] In step S13, the control unit 9 determines whether the previous outdoor humidity was equal to or lower than the threshold. If the control unit 9 determines that the previous outdoor humidity was higher than the threshold, the process proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 9 determines that the previous outdoor humidity was lower than the threshold, the process returns to step S11. In other words, if the previous outdoor humidity and the current outdoor humidity are both lower than the threshold, the control unit 9 does not change the content of the control. If the previous humidity was higher than the threshold and the current humidity is lower than the threshold, the control unit 9 proceeds to step S14 and changes the content of the control. Note that, at the start of humidification operation, the control unit 9 determines in step S13 that the previous outdoor humidity was higher than the threshold and proceeds to step S14.

[0085] In step S14, the control unit 9 drives the first motor 41m at a second rotation speed that is lower than the first rotation speed, thereby reducing the rotation speed of the humidification rotor 41.

[0086] In step S15, the control unit 9 increases the rotation speed of the second motor 44m, thereby increasing the rotation speed of the sorption fan 44.

[0087] In step S16, the control unit 9 increases the rotation speed of the third motor 43m, thereby increasing the rotation speed of the humidifying fan 43.

[0088] In step S17, the control unit 9 reduces the output of the heater 42. As a result, the heating degree of the heater 42 decreases.

[0089] In step S18, the control unit 9 controls the humidification amount adjusting unit 80 so that the first switching mechanism 81 takes the second state and the second switching mechanism 82 takes the fourth state, thereby increasing the size of the sorption region 41a.

[0090] On the other hand, in step S20, the control unit 9 determines whether the previous outdoor humidity was equal to or less than the threshold. If the control unit 9 determines that the previous outdoor humidity was equal to or less than the threshold, the process proceeds to step S21, and if the control unit 9 determines that the previous outdoor humidity was greater than the threshold, the process returns to step S11. In other words, if the previous outdoor humidity and the current outdoor humidity are both greater than the threshold, the control unit 9 does not change the content of the control. On the other hand, if the previous humidity was equal to or less than the threshold and the current humidity is greater than the threshold, the control unit 9 proceeds to step S21 and changes the content of the control.

[0091] In step S21, the control unit 9 drives the first motor 41m at the first rotation speed, thereby increasing the rotation speed of the humidification rotor 41.

[0092] In step S22, the control unit 9 reduces the rotation speed of the second motor 44m, thereby reducing the rotation speed of the sorption fan 44.

[0093] In step S23, the control unit 9 reduces the rotation speed of the third motor 43m, thereby reducing the rotation speed of the humidifying fan 43.

[0094] In step S24, the control unit 9 increases the output of the heater 42. As a result, the heating degree of the heater 42 increases.

[0095] In step S25, the control unit 9 controls the humidification amount adjusting unit 80 so that the first switching mechanism 81 is in the first state and the second switching mechanism 82 is in the third state, thereby reducing the size of the sorption region 41a.

[0096] (4) Features (4-1) In conventional humidification units, when it is necessary to increase the amount of moisture (sorption amount) to be sorbed by the humidification rotor, the rotation speed of the humidification rotor is increased. However, the amount of moisture sorbed by the polymer sorbent depends on the relative humidity of the air passing through. Therefore, if the rotation speed of the humidification rotor is increased when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the amount of moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor will decrease, and there is a possibility that sufficient humidification will not be achieved.

[0097] The humidification unit 4 of this embodiment includes a humidification rotor 41, a first motor 41m, and a control unit 9. The humidification rotor 41 has a sorption region 41a that sorbs moisture and a desorption region 41b that desorbs moisture. The first motor 41m rotates the humidification rotor 41. The control unit 9 controls the first motor 41m. The control unit 9 acquires the relative humidity of the outdoor air, which is first information related to the relative humidity of the outdoor air that causes the humidification rotor 41 to sorb moisture. If the control unit 9 determines that the relative humidity is higher than a threshold, it drives the first motor 41m at a first rotation speed. If the control unit 9 determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, it drives the first motor 41m at a second rotation speed that is lower than the first rotation speed. In this way, when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the rotation speed of the humidification rotor 41 is reduced, thereby slowing down the speed at which the humidification rotor 41 passes through the sorption region 41a. As a result, a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor 41 can be suppressed.

[0098] (4-2) The humidification unit 4 of this embodiment further includes a sorption fan 44 and a second motor 44m. The sorption fan 44 generates an air flow in the sorption region 41a. The second motor 44m rotates the sorption fan 44. When the control unit 9 determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, the control unit 9 further increases the rotation speed of the second motor 44m. As a result, when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the amount of air flowing through the sorption region 41a increases, thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor 41.

[0099] (4-3) The humidifying unit 4 of this embodiment further includes a humidifying fan 43 and a third motor 43m. The humidifying fan 43 generates an air flow in the desorption area 41b. The third motor 43m rotates the humidifying fan 43. When the control unit 9 determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, it further increases the rotation speed of the third motor 43m. If the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor 41 is reduced when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the humidifying rotor 41 tends to be overheated in the desorption area 41b. In this embodiment, when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the amount of air flowing through the desorption area 41b increases, thereby preventing the humidifying rotor 41 from being overheated.

[0100] (4-4) The humidifying unit 4 of this embodiment further includes a heater 42. The heater 42 heats the air flowing toward the desorption area 41b. When the control unit 9 determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, it further reduces the output of the heater 42. As a result, when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, it is possible to prevent the humidifying rotor 41 from being overheated.

[0101] (4-5) In this embodiment, the polymer material is a temperature-responsive polymer material that is hydrophobic above a first temperature and hydrophilic below the first temperature. As a result, the amount of moisture sorbed by the humidifying rotor 41 can be increased. Also, the amount of heat generated by the heater 42 can be reduced.

[0102] (4-6) In this embodiment, the sorption region 41a has a first region where the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic and a second region where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic. When the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the humidifying rotor 41 rotates at a low speed, allowing the polymer material to change from hydrophobic to hydrophilic in the sorption region 41a.

[0103] (4-7) The humidification unit 4 of this embodiment further includes a sorption path 46, a desorption path 45, and a humidification amount adjustment unit 80, which is a switching mechanism. The sorption path 46 passes air through the sorption region 41a. The desorption path 45 passes air through the desorption region 41b. The humidification amount adjustment unit 80 switches the size of the sorption region 41a. The sorption path 46 and the desorption path 45 are separated by a wall portion 84c and a partition plate 86b, which are partition members. The humidification amount adjustment unit 80 can change the size of the sorption region 41a by moving the partition member.

[0104] (4-8) In this embodiment, when the control unit 9 determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold, it further controls the humidification amount adjustment unit 80 to increase the sorption area 41a. As a result, when the relative humidity of the outdoor air is low, the sorption area 41a increases, thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of moisture sorbed by the humidification rotor 41.

[0105] (5) Variations (5-1) Variation A In the humidifying unit 4 of the air conditioner 100 described above, the outdoor humidity measured by the outdoor humidity sensor 92 is acquired as the first information.

[0106] Alternatively, one or more of the outdoor temperature measured by an outdoor temperature sensor (not shown), the indoor temperature measured by an indoor temperature sensor (not shown), and the indoor humidity measured by an indoor humidity sensor (not shown) may be obtained as first information, and the outdoor humidity may be estimated based on the first information.

[0107] (5-2) Variation B The humidification unit 4 of the air conditioner 100 described above employs a heater 42 with variable output, and the amount of heat generated by the heater 42 is adjusted during humidification control.

[0108] Alternatively, a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater may be used for the heater 42. A PTC heater has a property that its resistance increases in proportion to an increase in temperature. In other words, a PTC heater has a property that, as its resistance increases, the current decreases, the amount of heat generated decreases, and the temperature remains constant. Therefore, temperature adjustment is not necessary. In this case, steps S17 and S24 in the control flow of FIG. 10 are omitted.

[0109] (5-3) Variation C In the humidifying unit 4 of the air conditioning apparatus 100 described above, the control unit 9 does not change the control content if the previous outdoor humidity and the current outdoor humidity are both equal to or lower than the threshold value. Also, the control unit 9 does not change the control content if the previous outdoor humidity and the current outdoor humidity are both greater than the threshold value.

[0110] Alternatively, the control unit 9 may more finely change the rotation speed of the first motor 41m, the rotation speed of the second motor 44m, the rotation speed of the third motor 43m, and the output of the heater 42 based on the relative humidity of the outdoor air. For example, even if the previous outdoor humidity and the current outdoor humidity are both below the threshold, the control unit 9 may further reduce the rotation speed of the first motor 41m if the current outdoor humidity is lower than the previous outdoor humidity. Alternatively, the control unit 9 may further increase the rotation speeds of the second motor 44m and the third motor 43m. Alternatively, the control unit 9 may further reduce the output of the heater 42. This makes it possible to obtain an amount of moisture sorption that corresponds to the outdoor air conditions.

[0111] (5-4) Variation D In the humidifying unit 4 of the above-described air conditioning apparatus 100, the control unit 9 determines the outdoor humidity based on one threshold value. If the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is higher than the threshold value, it drives the first motor 41m at a first rotation speed, and if the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is equal to or lower than the threshold value, it drives the first motor 41m at a second rotation speed that is lower than the first rotation speed.

[0112] Alternatively, the control unit 9 may determine the outdoor humidity based on two thresholds, a first threshold and a second threshold. If the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is higher than the first threshold, it may drive the first motor 41m at a first rotation speed. If the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is equal to or lower than the first threshold and higher than the second threshold, it may drive the first motor 41m at a second rotation speed lower than the first rotation speed. If the control unit 9 determines that the outdoor humidity is equal to or lower than the second threshold, it may drive the first motor 41m at a third rotation speed lower than the second rotation speed. This makes it possible to obtain the amount of moisture sorption according to the conditions of the outdoor air.

[0113] (5-5) Variation E In the humidification unit 4 of the air conditioning apparatus 100 described above, the control unit 9 controls the humidification amount adjustment unit 80 so that the first switching mechanism 81 is in either the first state or the second state. The control unit 9 also controls the humidification amount adjustment unit 80 so that the second switching mechanism 82 is in either the third state or the fourth state. This switches the size of the sorption region 41a between large and small.

[0114] Alternatively, the control unit 9 may control the humidification amount adjustment unit 80 to change the size of the sorption region 41a more precisely based on the relative humidity of the outdoor air, thereby obtaining the amount of moisture sorption according to the outdoor air conditions.

[0115] (5-6) Variation F In the humidification unit 4 of the air conditioning apparatus 100 described above, the sorption region 41a has a first region where the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic and a second region where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic. However, the sorption region 41a may further have a third region where the polymer material is hydrophobic.

[0116] (5-7) Variation G In the humidification unit 4 of the air conditioning apparatus 100 described above, the humidification amount adjustment section 80 has a first switching mechanism 81 arranged above the humidification rotor 41 and a second switching mechanism 82 arranged below the humidification rotor 41. A drive section 85 of the first switching mechanism 81 drives the movable section 84, and a drive section 86 of the second switching mechanism 82 drives the partition plate 86b.

[0117] Alternatively, the first switching mechanism 81 and the second switching mechanism 82 may be integrated. In this case, the drive unit 85 may drive the movable unit 84 and the partition plate 86b, or the drive unit 86 may drive the movable unit 84 and the partition plate 86b. This makes it easier to control the humidification amount adjustment unit 80.

[0118] (5-8) Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 4 Humidification unit (humidifier) 9 Control Unit 41 Humidification rotor (rotor) 41a Sorption region 41b Desorption area 41m First motor 42 Heater 43 Humidifying fan 43m 3rd motor 44 Sorption fan 44m Second motor 45 Desorption Path 46 Sorption Pathways 80 Humidification amount adjustment unit (switching mechanism) 84c Wall (partition member) 86b Partition plate (partition member) 92 Outdoor humidity sensor 100 Air conditioning equipment [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0120] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-043971

Claims

1. A humidifier (4) for generating humidified air by sorption and desorption of moisture into a polymeric material, comprising: a humidification rotor (41) having a sorption region (41a) for sorbing the moisture and a desorption region (41b) for desorbing the moisture; a first motor (41m) for rotating the rotor; A control unit (9) that controls the first motor; Equipped with the control unit acquires first information related to the relative humidity of the outdoor air that causes the rotor to sorb the moisture; The control unit When it is determined that the relative humidity is higher than a threshold value, the first motor is driven at a first rotation speed; When it is determined that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than a threshold value, the first motor is driven at a second rotation speed which is lower than the first rotation speed. humidifier.

2. a sorption fan (44) for generating an air flow in the sorption region; a second motor (44m) for rotating the sorption fan; Furthermore, When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than a threshold value, the control unit further increases the rotation speed of the second motor. The humidifier according to claim 1 .

3. a humidifying fan (43) that generates an air flow in the desorption area; a third motor (43m) for rotating the humidifying fan; Furthermore, When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than a threshold value, the control unit further increases the rotation speed of the third motor. The humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a heater (42) for heating the air flowing towards the desorption area; Furthermore, When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than a threshold value, the control unit further reduces the output of the heater. The humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the polymer material is hydrophobic at a temperature equal to or higher than a first temperature and is hydrophilic at a temperature lower than the first temperature; The humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The sorption region has a first region where the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic and a second region where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic. The humidifier according to claim 5.

7. a sorption channel (46) for passing air through said sorption region; a desorption channel (45) for passing air through the desorption area; A switching mechanism (80) for switching the size of the sorption region; Furthermore, The sorption path and the desorption path are separated by a partition member (84c, 86b), The switching mechanism changes the size of the sorption region by moving the partition member. 、 The humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

8. When the control unit determines that the relative humidity is equal to or lower than a threshold value, the control unit further controls the switching mechanism to increase the sorption area. The humidifier according to claim 7.

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