Humidification unit

Abstract

To prevent the event that the moisture sorption amount of a humidifying rotor becomes insufficient when the relative humidity of outside air is low because the moisture sorption amount to a polymeric material depends on the relative humidity of air passing therethrough.SOLUTION: A humidifying unit 30 includes a humidifying rotor 31, and a body 36, the humidifying rotor 31 using a polymeric material for moisture sorption and desorption, the polymeric material having temperature responsiveness, the body 36 being formed with a moisture sorption flow path F1 and a moisture desorption flow path F2, the moisture sorption flow path F1 passing through a moisture sorption area 311 of the humidifying rotor 31, the moisture desorption flow path F2 passing through a moisture desorption area 312 of the humidifying rotor 31, and the moisture sorption area 311 including a first area R1 and a second area R2. In the first area R1, the polymeric material is changed from hydrophobic property into hydrophilic property. The second area R2 is located on the downstream side of the first area R1 in the rotating direction of the humidifying rotor 31. In the second area R2, the polymeric material has hydrophilic property.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to a humidifying unit.

Background Art

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-060872), there is a technique of using a polymer material for a humidifying rotor.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] The amount of moisture adsorbed by the polymer material depends on the relative humidity of the passing air. Therefore, in Patent Document 1, when the relative humidity of the outside air is low, there is a problem that the amount of moisture adsorbed by the polymer material decreases and the moisture adsorption amount of the humidifying rotor becomes insufficient.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The humidifying unit of the first aspect includes a humidifying rotor and a main body. The humidifying rotor uses a polymer material to adsorb and desorb moisture. The polymer material has temperature responsiveness. Inside the main body, a moisture adsorption flow path and a moisture desorption flow path are formed. The moisture adsorption flow path passes through the moisture adsorption region of the rotor. The moisture desorption flow path passes through the moisture desorption region of the rotor. The moisture adsorption region includes a first region and a second region. In the first region, the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. The second region is located downstream of the first region in the rotational direction of the rotor. In the second region, the polymer material becomes hydrophilic.

[0005] The humidifying unit of the first aspect can adsorb more moisture by the humidifying rotor by utilizing not only the relative humidity of the outside air but also the temperature responsiveness of the polymer material to adsorb moisture to the humidifying rotor.

[0006] The humidification unit of the second perspective is the humidification unit of the first perspective, wherein the moisture absorption channel has a first channel and a second channel. The first channel connects a first intake port formed on the first surface of the main body for drawing in outside air and a first region. The second channel connects a second intake port formed on the second surface of the main body for drawing in outside air and a second region.

[0007] The humidification unit from the second perspective allows more moisture to be absorbed by the humidifying rotor by passing outside air through both the first and second regions.

[0008] The humidifying unit in the third perspective is the humidifying unit in the second perspective, and the area of ​​the second intake port is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the first intake port.

[0009] The humidification unit from the third perspective can absorb more moisture onto the humidifying rotor by making the area of ​​the second intake port, which is connected to the second region where the polymer material is hydrophilic, greater than the area of ​​the first intake port, which is connected to the first region.

[0010] The humidification unit in the fourth perspective is a humidification unit from either the first or third perspective, and the flow path area of ​​the second region is larger than the flow path area of ​​the first region.

[0011] The humidification unit from the fourth perspective can absorb more moisture onto the humidifying rotor by making the flow channel area of ​​the second region, where the polymer material is hydrophilic, larger than the flow channel area of ​​the first region.

[0012] The humidification unit of the fifth perspective is a humidification unit of any of the first to fourth perspectives, further comprising a partition member. The partition member separates a moisture absorption channel from a moisture desorption channel.

[0013] The humidification unit from the fifth perspective can more effectively absorb and desorb moisture by clearly separating the moisture absorption channel and the moisture desorption channel.

[0014] The humidification unit of the sixth aspect is a humidification unit of any of the first to fifth aspects, further comprising a fan. The fan causes moisture to adhere to the rotor. The fan is provided in the moisture adsorption channel.

[0015] The humidification unit in the seventh aspect is the humidification unit in the sixth aspect, and the fan is located downstream of the rotor in the moisture absorption channel.

[0016] The humidification unit in the seventh perspective, with this configuration, prevents the temperature of the air passing through the humidification rotor from rising, making the polymer material in the moisture absorption region hydrophilic more quickly, and allowing more moisture to be absorbed onto the humidification rotor.

[0017] The humidification unit of the eighth perspective is a humidification unit of any of the first to seventh perspectives, and the moisture absorption region further comprises a third region. In the third region, the polymer material becomes hydrophobic.

[0018] The humidifying unit of the ninth aspect is a humidifying unit of either the first or eighth aspect, wherein the polymer material is hydrophobic when the temperature is higher than the first temperature and hydrophilic when the temperature is lower than the first temperature. The first temperature is any temperature between 60°C and 100°C. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the air conditioning system. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of the humidification unit. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of the humidification unit. [Figure 5] This is a control block diagram of an air conditioning system. [Figure 6] This figure shows the third region of the moisture sorption area. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] (1) Overall Configuration The air conditioner 1 is a device that performs air conditioning of the target space RM using a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of the air conditioner 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 1 mainly includes an indoor unit 10, an outdoor unit 20, and a humidifying unit 30.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the refrigerant circuit 40 of the air conditioner 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the indoor refrigerant flow path 43 in the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor refrigerant flow path 44 in the outdoor unit 20 are connected by a liquid refrigerant connecting pipe 41 and a gas refrigerant connecting pipe 42, thereby constituting the refrigerant circuit 40. In the refrigerant circuit 40, a vapor compression refrigeration cycle is repeated to perform air conditioning of the target space RM. In this embodiment, the air conditioner 1 performs a cooling operation, a heating operation, and a humidifying operation as operations for performing air conditioning of the target space RM.

[0022] The humidifying unit 30 is a device for performing a humidifying operation for humidifying the target space RM. The humidifying unit 30 humidifies the target space RM by sending humid air from the outdoor area OD to the target space RM. In this embodiment, the humidifying unit 30 is disposed in the outdoor area OD together with the outdoor unit 20. The humidifying unit 30 is attached to and integrated with the upper part of the outdoor unit 20. However, it is not limited to this, and the outdoor unit 20 and the humidifying unit 30 may be separate bodies. The humidifying unit 30 and the indoor unit 10 are connected by an air supply hose 70.

[0023] The air conditioner 1 has a remote controller 80. The remote controller 80 gives instructions such as start and stop of operation to the air conditioner 1. In addition, the remote controller 80 can receive information such as the current operating state and various notifications from the air conditioner 1.

[0024] (2) Detailed Configuration (2-1) Indoor Unit As shown in Figure 1, the indoor unit 10 is installed in the target space RM. In this embodiment, the indoor unit 10 is a wall-mounted unit installed on the wall of the target space RM.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the indoor unit 10 mainly comprises an indoor heat exchanger 11, an indoor fan 12, and an indoor control unit 19. The indoor unit 10 also includes various sensors (not shown).

[0026] (2-1-1) Indoor heat exchanger In the indoor heat exchanger 11, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 11 and the air in the target space RM. As shown in Figure 2, the indoor unit 10 drives the indoor fan 12 to draw in air from the target space RM through the intake port 13a. The air from the target space RM that is drawn in passes through the indoor heat exchanger 11. At this time, since refrigerant is flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 11, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger 11 and the air in the target space RM. As shown in Figure 2, the air that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger 11 is blown out from the outlet port 13b.

[0027] In this embodiment, the indoor heat exchanger 11 is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger having a plurality of heat transfer fins and a plurality of heat transfer tubes.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, one end of the indoor heat exchanger 11 is connected to the liquid refrigerant connecting pipe 41 via refrigerant piping. The other end of the indoor heat exchanger 11 is connected to the gas refrigerant connecting pipe 42 via refrigerant piping. During cooling operation, refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 11 from the liquid refrigerant connecting pipe 41 side, and the indoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a refrigerant evaporator. During heating operation, refrigerant flows into the indoor heat exchanger 11 from the gas refrigerant connecting pipe 42 side, and the indoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a refrigerant condenser.

[0029] (2-1-2) Indoor fan The indoor fan 12 is a fan that supplies air from the target space RM to the indoor heat exchanger 11. In this embodiment, the indoor fan 12 is a cross-flow fan. As shown in Figure 2, the indoor fan 12 is driven by an indoor fan motor 12m. The rotational speed of the indoor fan motor 12m can be controlled by an inverter.

[0030] (2-1-3) Indoor Control Unit The indoor control unit 19 controls the operation of each part that makes up the indoor unit 10.

[0031] The indoor control unit 19 is electrically connected to various devices in the indoor unit 10, including the indoor fan motor 12m, so that it can exchange control signals and information with them. The indoor control unit 19 is also communicatively connected to various sensors installed in the indoor unit 10.

[0032] The indoor control unit 19 includes a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU or GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, or flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads a program stored in the memory device and controls the operation of each part that makes up the indoor unit 10 by performing predetermined calculation processing according to the program. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program. The indoor control unit 19 also has a timer.

[0033] The indoor control unit 19 is configured to receive various signals transmitted from the remote controller 80. These signals include, for example, signals instructing the start and stop of operation, and signals related to various settings. These setting signals include, for example, signals related to the set temperature and set humidity.

[0034] The indoor control unit 19 exchanges various signals and other information with the outdoor control unit 29 of the outdoor unit 20 and the humidification control unit 39 of the humidification unit 30 via the communication line 90. The indoor control unit 19, the outdoor control unit 29, and the humidification control unit 39 work together to function as a control unit 60. The functions of the control unit 60 will be described later.

[0035] (2-2) Outdoor unit As shown in Figure 1, the outdoor unit 20 is installed, for example, in an outdoor OD such as the garden or balcony of the building where the air conditioning system 1 is installed.

[0036] As shown in Figure 2, the outdoor unit 20 mainly comprises a compressor 21, a flow path switching mechanism 22, an accumulator 23, an outdoor heat exchanger 24, an outdoor expansion valve 25, an outdoor fan 26, and an outdoor control unit 29. The outdoor unit 20 also has various sensors (not shown).

[0037] (2-2-1) Compressor The compressor 21 draws in low-pressure refrigerant, compresses it using a compression mechanism (not shown), and discharges the compressed refrigerant. In this embodiment, the compressor 21 is a positive displacement compressor such as a rotary or scroll type. As shown in Figure 2, the compression mechanism (not shown) of the compressor 21 is driven by a compressor motor 21m. The rotational speed of the compressor motor 21m can be controlled by an inverter.

[0038] (2-2-2) Flow path switching mechanism The flow path switching mechanism 22 is a mechanism that changes the state of the refrigerant circuit 40 between a first state and a second state by switching the flow path of the refrigerant. When the refrigerant circuit 40 is in the first state, the outdoor heat exchanger 24 functions as a refrigerant condenser and the indoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a refrigerant evaporator. When the refrigerant circuit 40 is in the second state, the outdoor heat exchanger 24 functions as a refrigerant evaporator and the indoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a refrigerant condenser.

[0039] In this embodiment, the flow path switching mechanism 22 is a four-way switching valve.

[0040] The flow path switching mechanism 22 has four ports. The first port P1 of the flow path switching mechanism 22 is connected to the discharge port of the compressor 21. The second port P2 of the flow path switching mechanism 22 is connected to one inlet / outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 24. The third port P3 of the flow path switching mechanism 22 is connected to the accumulator 23. The fourth port P4 of the flow path switching mechanism 22 is connected to one inlet / outlet of the indoor heat exchanger 11.

[0041] During cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 sets the state of the refrigerant circuit 40 to the first state. In other words, during cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 connects the first port P1 and the second port P2, and connects the third port P3 and the fourth port P4, as shown by the solid lines in the flow path switching mechanism 22 in Figure 2.

[0042] During heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 sets the state of the refrigerant circuit 40 to the second state. In other words, during heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 connects the first port P1 and the fourth port P4, and connects the second port P2 and the third port P3, as shown by the dashed lines within the flow path switching mechanism 22 in Figure 2.

[0043] (2-2-3) Accumulator The accumulator 23 has a gas-liquid separation function that separates the incoming refrigerant into gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant. As shown in Figure 2, the accumulator 23 is installed between the third port P3 of the flow path switching mechanism 22 and the inlet of the compressor 21. The refrigerant flowing into the accumulator 23 is separated into gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant, and the gaseous refrigerant that collects in the upper space flows out to the compressor 21.

[0044] (2-2-4) Outdoor heat exchanger In the outdoor heat exchanger 24, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant flowing inside the outdoor heat exchanger 24 and the outdoor air (outside air). Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the outdoor unit 20 drives the outdoor fan 26 to draw in outside air from the intake port 27a. The drawn-in outside air passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 24. At this time, since refrigerant is flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger 24, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger 24 and the outside air. The air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger 24 is blown out from the outlet port 27b.

[0045] In this embodiment, the outdoor heat exchanger 24 is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger having a plurality of heat transfer fins and a plurality of heat transfer tubes.

[0046] One end of the outdoor heat exchanger 24 is connected to the outdoor expansion valve 25 via refrigerant piping. The other end of the outdoor heat exchanger 24 is connected to the second port P2 of the flow path switching mechanism 22 via refrigerant piping.

[0047] The outdoor heat exchanger 24 functions as a refrigerant condenser during cooling operation and as a refrigerant evaporator during heating operation.

[0048] (2-2-5) Outdoor expansion valve The outdoor expansion valve 25 is a mechanism for regulating the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit 40. In this embodiment, the outdoor expansion valve 25 is an electronic expansion valve.

[0049] (2-2-6) Outdoor fan The outdoor fan 26 is a fan that supplies air to the outdoor heat exchanger 24. In this embodiment, the outdoor fan 26 is a propeller fan. The outdoor fan 26 is driven by an outdoor fan motor 26m. The rotational speed of the outdoor fan motor 26m can be controlled by an inverter.

[0050] (2-2-7) Outdoor Control Unit The outdoor control unit 29 controls the operation of each component that makes up the outdoor unit 20.

[0051] The outdoor control unit 29 is electrically connected to various components of the outdoor unit 20, including the compressor motor 21m, flow path switching mechanism 22, outdoor expansion valve 25, and outdoor fan motor 26m, so that it can exchange control signals and information with them. The indoor control unit 19 is also connected to various sensors installed in the outdoor unit 20 so as to be able to communicate with them.

[0052] The outdoor control unit 29 has a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU or GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads a program stored in the memory device and controls the operation of each part that makes up the outdoor unit 20 by performing predetermined calculation processing according to the program. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program. The outdoor control unit 29 also has a timer.

[0053] The outdoor control unit 29 exchanges various signals and other information with the indoor control unit 19 of the indoor unit 10 and the humidification control unit 39 of the humidification unit 30 via the communication line 90. The indoor control unit 19, the outdoor control unit 29, and the humidification control unit 39 work together to function as a control unit 60. The functions of the control unit 60 will be described later.

[0054] (2-3) Humidification Unit Figures 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views of the humidification unit 30. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the humidification unit 30 mainly comprises a humidification rotor 31 (rotor for humidification), a heater 32, an air supply fan 34, an adsorption fan 35 (fan), a main body 36, and a humidification control unit 39. The humidification unit 30 also houses a portion of the air supply hose 70. The humidification unit 30 also has various sensors (not shown).

[0055] (2-3-1) Humidifying Rotor As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the humidifying rotor 31 is a disc-shaped component. The humidifying rotor 31 is made of a polymer material. The humidifying rotor 31 uses the polymer material to adsorb and desorb moisture.

[0056] Polymer materials are temperature-responsive. In other words, the affinity of polymer materials for water changes reversibly in response to heat. Polymer materials are hydrophobic above the lower critical solution temperature (first temperature) and hydrophilic below the lower critical solution temperature. The lower critical solution temperature is any temperature between 60°C and 100°C.

[0057] Furthermore, polymer materials have the characteristic of being able to dehydrate at relatively low temperatures compared to silica gel, zeolites, and the like.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, the humidifying rotor 31 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from above by the humidifying rotor motor 31m. The rotational speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m can be controlled by an inverter.

[0059] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the left semi-circular portion of the humidifying rotor 31 is a moisture absorption region 311 for absorbing moisture from the outside air. The moisture absorption region 311 includes a first region R1 and a second region R2. The second region R2 is located downstream of the first region R1 in the rotational direction of the humidifying rotor 31. In this embodiment, when the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the first region R1, the polymer material is cooled mainly by the outside air sucked in from the intake port 36a, and the rotational speed of the absorption fan motor 35m of the absorption fan 35, the rotational speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32 are adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material falls below the lower limit critical solution temperature (so that the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic). When the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the second region R2, the polymer material is cooled mainly by the outside air drawn in from the intake port 36b, and the rotation speed of the sorption fan motor 35m of the sorption fan 35, the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32 are adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material becomes lower than the lower critical solution temperature (so that the polymer material becomes hydrophilic).

[0060] The first region R1 and the second region R2 are formed by the humidification control unit 39 driving the sorption fan 35, humidification rotor 31, heater 32, etc. The position and size of the first region R1 and the second region R2 are changed by the humidification control unit 39 adjusting the rotation speed of the sorption fan motor 35m of the sorption fan 35, the rotation speed of the humidification rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32, etc. For example, if the humidification control unit 39 increases the output of the heater 32, the temperature of the polymer material increases (because the rate at which the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic slows down), so the first region R1 becomes relatively large. Also, for example, if the humidification control unit 39 increases the rotation speed of the sorption fan motor 35m of the sorption fan 35, the temperature of the polymer material decreases quickly (because the rate at which the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic increases), so the first region R1 becomes relatively small.

[0061] The first region R1 and the second region R2 are preferably formed in the moisture absorption region 311, which is the semi-circular portion on the left side of the humidifying rotor 31, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. Therefore, the humidifying control unit 39 adjusts the rotation speed of the absorption fan motor 35m of the absorption fan 35, the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32, etc., so that the first region R1 and the second region R2 are formed in the moisture absorption region 311.

[0062] The right-hand semi-disc portion of the humidifying rotor 31 is a moisture desorption region 312 for desorbing sorbed moisture. The moisture desorption region 312 includes a fourth region R4 and a fifth region R5. The fifth region R5 is located downstream of the fourth region R4 in the rotational direction of the humidifying rotor 31. In this embodiment, when the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the fourth region R4, the polymer material is heated by air heated by passing through the heater 32, and the output of the heater 32 is adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material is above the lower critical solution temperature (so that the polymer material changes from hydrophilic to hydrophobic). When the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the fifth region R5, the polymer material is cooled by outside air drawn in from the intake port 36c, and the rotation speed of the air supply fan motor 34m of the air supply fan 34 is adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material approaches the lower critical solution temperature.

[0063] (2-3-2) Main body As shown in Figures 2-4, the main body 36 primarily houses the humidifying rotor 31, heater 32, air supply fan 34, absorption fan 35, and humidifying control unit 39.

[0064] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, an intake port 36a (first intake port) and an intake port 36c are formed on the rear side (first surface) of the main body 36. Intake port 36a is a hole for drawing in outside air by the sorption fan 35. Intake port 36c is a hole for drawing in outside air by the supply fan 34. An intake port 36b (second intake port) and an outlet port 36d are formed on the front side (second surface) of the main body 36. Intake port 36b is a hole for drawing in outside air by the sorption fan 35. Outlet port 36d is a hole for blowing out air by the sorption fan 35. The area of ​​intake port 36b is greater than or equal to the area of ​​intake port 36a.

[0065] The main body 36 has a partition member 36e. The partition member 36e separates the moisture absorption channel F1 and the moisture desorption channel F2, which will be described later.

[0066] (2-3-3) Receptacle Fan The sorption fan 35 sorbs moisture onto the humidifying rotor 31. As shown in Figures 2-4, the sorption fan 35 forms a moisture sorption channel F1 within the main body 36. The moisture sorption channel F1 is a flow path for air that flows in the following order: intake ports 36a, 36b, moisture sorption region 311 of the humidifying rotor 31, sorption fan 35, and outlet port 36d. The sorption fan 35 is installed in the moisture sorption channel F1. The sorption fan 35 is located downstream of the humidifying rotor 31 in the moisture sorption channel F1. The moisture sorption channel F1 has a first channel F11 and a second channel F12. The first channel F11 connects the intake port 36a and the first region R1. The second channel F12 connects the intake port 36b and the second region R2. The channel area S2 of the second region R2 is larger than the channel area S1 of the first region R1. Preferably, the area ratio of the flow channel area S1 of the first region R1 to the flow channel area S2 of the second region R2 is 1:2.

[0067] The moisture sorption channel F1 passes through the moisture sorption region 311 of the humidifying rotor 31. The sorption fan 35 absorbs moisture from the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 by passing outside air drawn in from the intake port 36a upward, mainly through the first region R1 of the humidifying rotor 31. The sorption fan 35 also absorbs moisture from the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 by passing outside air drawn in from the intake port 36b upward, mainly through the second region R2 of the humidifying rotor 31.

[0068] The sorption fan 35 is a centrifugal fan such as a sirocco fan or a turbo fan. The sorption fan 35 is driven by the sorption fan motor 35m. The rotational speed of the sorption fan motor 35m can be controlled by an inverter. Preferably, the rotational speed of the sorption fan motor 35m is set to a volume of 1.5 m³. 3 / min~4m 3 This is the rotational speed at which the minimum rotation is calculated ( / min).

[0069] (2-3-4) Intake fan As shown in Figures 2-4, the air supply fan 34 is positioned between the moisture desorption region 312 of the humidifying rotor 31 and the duct 37. The air supply fan 34 forms a moisture desorption passage F2 within the main body 36. The moisture desorption passage F2 is a passage for air that flows in the following order: intake port 36c, fourth region R4 of the humidifying rotor 31, heater 32, fifth region R5 of the humidifying rotor 31, air supply fan 34, duct 37, air supply hose 70, and indoor unit 10.

[0070] The moisture desorption channel F2 passes through the moisture desorption region 312 of the humidifying rotor 31. The supply air fan 34 causes the air heated by passing through the heater 32 to pass downwards into the fourth region R4 of the humidifying rotor 31, thereby desorbing moisture from the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31. The air supplied with moisture from the polymer material is sent to the indoor unit 10.

[0071] The intake fan 34 is a centrifugal fan, such as a sirocco fan or a turbo fan. The intake fan 34 is driven by the intake fan motor 34m. The rotational speed of the intake fan motor 34m can be controlled by an inverter.

[0072] (2-3-5) Heater As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the heater 32 is positioned above the humidifying rotor 31. The heater 32 heats the air that is drawn in from the intake port 36c and passes upward through the fifth region R5 of the humidifying rotor 31.

[0073] The heater 32 can change the temperature of the air that passes through it by changing its output.

[0074] (2-3-6) Air intake hose The air supply hose 70 is connected to the duct 37 at one end and to the indoor unit 10 at the other end. The air supply hose 70 and the target space RM are in communication via the indoor unit 10.

[0075] (2-3-7) Humidification Control Unit The humidification control unit 39 controls the operation of each component that makes up the humidification unit 30.

[0076] The humidification control unit 39 is electrically connected to various components of the humidification unit 30, including the humidification rotor motor 31m, heater 32, air supply fan motor 34m, and sorption fan motor 35m, so as to enable the exchange of control signals and information. The humidification control unit 39 is also communicatively connected to various sensors provided in the humidification unit 30.

[0077] The humidification control unit 39 includes a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU or GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, or flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads a program stored in the memory device and controls the operation of each part that makes up the humidification unit 30 by performing predetermined calculation processing according to the program. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program. The humidification control unit 39 also has a timer.

[0078] The humidification control unit 39 exchanges various signals and other information with the indoor control unit 19 of the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor control unit 29 of the outdoor unit 20 via the communication line 90. The indoor control unit 19, the outdoor control unit 29, and the humidification control unit 39 work together to function as a control unit 60. The functions of the control unit 60 will be described later.

[0079] (2-4) Control Unit Figure 5 is a control block diagram of the air conditioning system 1. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 60 is configured by the indoor control unit 19 of the indoor unit 10, the outdoor control unit 29 of the outdoor unit 20, and the humidification control unit 39 of the humidification unit 30 being communicated to each other via a communication line 90. The control unit 60 controls the operation of the entire air conditioning system 1 by having the control calculation devices of the indoor control unit 19, the outdoor control unit 29, and the humidification control unit 39 execute programs stored in a memory device.

[0080] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 60 is electrically connected to various components of the indoor unit 10, outdoor unit 20, and humidification unit 30, including the indoor fan motor 12m, compressor motor 21m, flow path switching mechanism 22, outdoor expansion valve 25, outdoor fan motor 26m, humidification rotor motor 31m, heater 32, supply air fan motor 34m, and sorption fan motor 35m, so as to be able to exchange control signals and information. In addition, the control unit 60 is communicatively connected to various sensors provided in the indoor unit 10, outdoor unit 20, and humidification unit 30.

[0081] The control unit 60 controls the start and stop operation of the air conditioning system 1 and the operation of various components of the air conditioning system 1 based on measurement signals from various sensors and commands received by the indoor control unit 19 from the remote controller 80. The control unit 60 can also transmit information such as the current operating status and various notifications to the remote controller 80.

[0082] In this embodiment, the control unit 60 causes the air conditioning system 1 to perform cooling, heating, and humidifying operations.

[0083] (2-4-1) Cooling operation Cooling operation is the process of cooling the temperature of the target space RM to the set temperature.

[0084] The control unit 60 receives instructions from, for example, the remote controller 80 to start cooling operation and set the temperature. The control unit 60 switches the flow path switching mechanism 22 to the state shown by the solid line in Figure 2. During cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 flows refrigerant between the first port P1 and the second port P2, and between the third port P3 and the fourth port P4. During cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 flows the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 21 to the outdoor heat exchanger 24. In the outdoor heat exchanger 24, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant and the outside air supplied by the outdoor fan 26. The refrigerant cooled in the outdoor heat exchanger 24 is depressurized by the outdoor expansion valve 25 and flows into the indoor heat exchanger 11. In the indoor heat exchanger 11, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant and the air of the target space RM supplied by the indoor fan 12. The refrigerant, heated by heat exchange in the indoor heat exchanger 11, is drawn into the compressor 21 via the flow path switching mechanism 22 and the accumulator 23. The air in the target space RM, cooled by the indoor heat exchanger 11, is blown from the indoor unit 10 into the target space RM, thereby cooling the target space RM. In this air conditioning system 1, during cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a refrigerant evaporator to cool the air in the target space RM, and the outdoor heat exchanger 24 functions as a refrigerant condenser.

[0085] (2-4-2) Heating operation Heating operation is the process of warming the temperature of the target space RM to the set temperature.

[0086] The control unit 60 receives instructions from, for example, the remote controller 80 to start heating operation and set the temperature. The control unit 60 switches the flow path switching mechanism 22 to the state shown by the dashed line in Figure 2. During heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 flows refrigerant between the first port P1 and the fourth port P4, and between the second port P2 and the third port P3. During heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 22 flows the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 21 to the indoor heat exchanger 11. In the indoor heat exchanger 11, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant and the air of the target space RM supplied by the indoor fan 12. The refrigerant cooled in the indoor heat exchanger 11 is depressurized by the outdoor expansion valve 25 and flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 24. In the outdoor heat exchanger 24, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant and the air of the target space RM supplied by the outdoor fan 26. The refrigerant heated by heat exchange in the outdoor heat exchanger 24 is drawn into the compressor 21 via the flow path switching mechanism 22 and the accumulator 23. The air in the target space RM, heated in the indoor heat exchanger 11, is blown from the indoor unit 10 into the target space RM, thereby heating the target space RM. In this air conditioning system 1, during heating operation, the indoor heat exchanger 11 functions as a refrigerant condenser to heat the air in the target space RM, and the outdoor heat exchanger 24 functions as a refrigerant evaporator.

[0087] (2-4-3) Humidification operation The humidification operation is an operation that raises the humidity of the target space RM to the set humidity. The control unit 60 humidifies the target space RM using the moisture adsorbed on the humidification rotor 31.

[0088] The control unit 60 receives instructions from, for example, the remote controller 80 to start humidification operation and set the humidity level. The control unit 60 drives the sorption fan 35 to rotate the humidification rotor 31. As the sorption fan 35 is driven, outside air passes through the moisture absorption region 311 of the humidification rotor 31, and moisture from the outside air is absorbed by the polymer material constituting the humidification rotor 31. The areas where moisture has been absorbed move to the moisture desorption region 312, through which air heated by the heater 32 passes, as the humidification rotor 31 rotates. As a result, moisture is desorbed from the humidification rotor 31, and this moisture becomes part of the heated air. The air, now with high humidity, is sent to the target space RM via the supply air hose 70 and the indoor unit 10 by the supply air fan 34. The control unit 60 drives the indoor fan 12 of the indoor unit 10 to blow the high-humidity air into the target space RM.

[0089] (3) Features (3-1) Conventionally, there is a technology that uses polymer materials for humidifying rotors. The amount of moisture adsorbed onto the polymer material depends on the relative humidity of the air passing through it. Therefore, with conventional technology, when the relative humidity of the outside air is low, the amount of moisture adsorbed onto the polymer material decreases, resulting in insufficient moisture adsorption by the humidifying rotor.

[0090] The humidification unit 30 of this embodiment comprises a humidification rotor 31 and a main body 36. The humidification rotor 31 uses a polymer material to absorb and desorb moisture. The polymer material is temperature responsive. A moisture absorption channel F1 and a moisture desorption channel F2 are formed inside the main body 36. The moisture absorption channel F1 passes through the moisture absorption region 311 of the humidification rotor 31. The moisture desorption channel F2 passes through the moisture desorption region 312 of the humidification rotor 31. The moisture absorption region 311 includes a first region R1 and a second region R2. In the first region R1, the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. The second region R2 is located downstream of the first region R1 in the rotational direction of the humidification rotor 31. In the second region R2, the polymer material becomes hydrophilic.

[0091] As a result, the humidification unit 30 can absorb more moisture onto the humidification rotor 31 by utilizing not only the relative humidity of the outside air but also the temperature response of the polymer material to absorb moisture onto the humidification rotor 31.

[0092] (3-2) In the humidification unit 30 of this embodiment, the moisture absorption channel F1 has a first channel F11 and a second channel F12. The first channel F11 connects an intake port 36a formed on the first surface of the main body 36 for drawing in outside air and a first region R1. The second channel F12 connects an intake port 36b formed on the second surface of the main body 36 for drawing in outside air and a second region R2.

[0093] As a result, the humidification unit 30 can absorb more moisture onto the humidification rotor 31 by passing outside air through the first region R1 and the second region R2, respectively.

[0094] (3-3) In the humidification unit 30 of this embodiment, the area of ​​the intake port 36b is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the intake port 36a.

[0095] As a result, the humidifying unit 30 can absorb more moisture onto the humidifying rotor 31 by making the area of ​​the intake port 36b, which is connected to the second region R2 where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic, greater than the area of ​​the intake port 36a, which is connected to the first region R1.

[0096] (3-4) In the humidification unit 30 of this embodiment, the flow path area S2 of the second region R2 is larger than the flow path area S1 of the first region R1.

[0097] As a result, the humidification unit 30 can absorb more moisture onto the humidification rotor 31 by making the flow path area S2 of the second region R2, where the polymer material becomes hydrophilic, larger than the flow path area S1 of the first region R1.

[0098] (3-5) The humidification unit 30 of this embodiment further includes a partition member 36e. The partition member 36e separates the moisture absorption channel F1 from the moisture desorption channel F2.

[0099] As a result, the humidification unit 30 can more effectively absorb and desorb moisture by clearly separating the moisture absorption channel F1 and the moisture desorption channel F2.

[0100] (3-6) The humidification unit 30 of this embodiment further includes an adsorption fan 35. The adsorption fan 35 adsorbs moisture onto the humidification rotor 31. The adsorption fan 35 is provided in the moisture adsorption channel F1.

[0101] (3-7) In the humidification unit 30 of this embodiment, the sorption fan 35 is located downstream of the humidification rotor 31 in the moisture sorption channel F1.

[0102] As a result, the humidification unit 30 prevents the temperature of the air passing through the humidification rotor 31 from rising, making the polymer material in the moisture absorption region 311 hydrophilic more quickly, and allowing more moisture to be absorbed by the humidification rotor 31.

[0103] (3-8) In the humidification unit 30 of this embodiment, the polymer material is hydrophobic when the temperature is above the lower critical solution temperature and hydrophilic when the temperature is below the lower critical solution temperature. The lower critical solution temperature is any temperature between 60°C and 100°C.

[0104] (4) Variations (4-1) Variation 1A The moisture absorption region 311 of the humidification unit 30 may further have a third region R3. Figure 6 shows the third region R3 of the moisture absorption region 311. As shown in Figure 3, the third region R3 is located upstream of the first region R1 in the rotational direction of the humidification rotor 31.

[0105] For example, when the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the third region R3, the polymer material is cooled mainly by the outside air drawn in from the intake port 36a, and the rotation speed of the sorption fan motor 35m of the sorption fan 35, the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32 are adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material approaches the lower critical solution temperature. In the third region R3, the polymer material is still hydrophobic. When the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the first region R1, the polymer material is cooled mainly by the outside air drawn in from the intake port 36a, and the rotation speed of the sorption fan motor 35m of the sorption fan 35, the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32 are adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material falls below the lower critical solution temperature (so that the polymer material changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic). When the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the second region R2, the polymer material is cooled mainly by the outside air drawn in from the intake port 36b, and the rotation speed of the sorption fan motor 35m of the sorption fan 35, the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor motor 31m, and the output of the heater 32 are adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material becomes lower than the lower critical solution temperature (so that the polymer material becomes hydrophilic).

[0106] When the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the fourth region R4, the polymer material is heated by the air heated by passing through the heater 32, and the output of the heater 32 is adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material is above the lower critical solution temperature (so that the polymer material changes from hydrophilic to hydrophobic). When the polymer material constituting the humidifying rotor 31 passes through the fifth region R5, the polymer material is cooled by the outside air drawn in from the intake port 36c, and the rotation speed of the supply fan motor 34m of the supply fan 34 is adjusted so that the temperature of the polymer material approaches the lower critical solution temperature.

[0107] (4-2) While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 30 Humidifying Units 31. Humidifying rotor (rotor for humidification) 311 Moisture sorption region 312 Moisture desorption area 35. Acquisition Fan (Fan) 36 Main unit 36a Inlet (First Inlet) 36b Inlet (Second Inlet) 36e Partition Member F1 Moisture absorption channel F2 Moisture Desorption Channel F11 First channel F12 Second channel R1 1st area R2 2nd area R3 3rd area S1 Flow channel area of ​​the first region S2 Second region flow area [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0109] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-060872

Claims

1. A humidifying rotor (31) that uses a temperature-responsive polymer material to absorb and desorb moisture, A body (36) having a moisture absorption channel (F1) passing through the moisture absorption region (311) of the rotor and a moisture desorption channel (F2) passing through the moisture desorption region (312) of the rotor, Equipped with, The aforementioned moisture absorption region is The polymer material has a first region (R1) where it changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, A second region (R2) located downstream of the first region in the rotational direction of the rotor, in which the polymer material is hydrophilic, It has, The aforementioned water absorption channel is A first intake port (36a) formed on the first surface of the main body for drawing in outside air, and a first flow path (F11) connecting the first region, A second intake port (36b) formed on the second surface of the main body for drawing in outside air, and a second flow path (F12) connecting the second region, Having, Humidification unit (30).

2. The area of ​​the second suction port is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the first suction port. The humidifying unit (30) according to claim 1.

3. A humidifying rotor (31) that uses a temperature-responsive polymer material to absorb and desorb moisture, A body (36) having a moisture absorption channel (F1) passing through the moisture absorption region (311) of the rotor and a moisture desorption channel (F2) passing through the moisture desorption region (312) of the rotor, Equipped with, The aforementioned moisture absorption region is The polymer material has a first region (R1) where it changes from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, A second region (R2) located downstream of the first region in the rotational direction of the rotor, in which the polymer material is hydrophilic, It has, The flow channel area (S2) of the second region is larger than the flow channel area (S1) of the first region. Humidification unit (30).

4. The flow channel area (S2) of the second region is larger than the flow channel area (S1) of the first region. A humidifying unit (30) according to claim 1 or 2.

5. A partition member (36e) separating the moisture absorption channel and the moisture desorption channel, Furthermore, A humidifying unit (30) according to claim 1 or 2.

6. A fan (35) for adsorbing moisture onto the rotor, Furthermore, The fan is provided in the moisture absorption channel, A humidifying unit (30) according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The fan is located downstream of the moisture absorption channel from the rotor. The humidifying unit (30) according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned moisture-absorbing region further comprises a third region (R3) in which the polymer material becomes hydrophobic. A humidifying unit (30) according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The polymer material becomes hydrophobic when the temperature is higher than the first temperature, and hydrophilic when the temperature is lower than the first temperature. The first temperature is any temperature between 60°C and 100°C. A humidifying unit (30) according to claim 1 or 2.

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