Water accumulation apparatus and water accumulation method

Abstract

A water collecting apparatus (100) comprises a hygroscopic material (10) and a thermally conductive member (20). The hygroscopic material (10) comprises a polymer compound exhibiting a property in which the degree of hydrophilicity changes with temperature. The thermally conductive member (20) is positioned so as to face a part of the outer surface of the hygroscopic material (10) and has thermal conductiveness. Preferably, the thermally conductive member (20) is positioned so as to leave exposed another part of the outer surface of the hygroscopic material (10). Preferably, said part of the outer surface of the hygroscopic material (10) is positioned collinear with said other part of the outer surface of the hygroscopic material (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water accumulation device and a water accumulation method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a water accumulation device.

[0003] The water accumulation device described in Patent Document 1 includes a moisture absorption unit and a blower fan. The moisture absorption unit includes an element composed of a base material and a heater. The base material is provided with a laminate formed by laminating a polymer moisture absorbent. The heater is provided so as to contact the base material. The moisture absorption unit is rotatably supported. The region where the moisture absorption unit rotates is divided into a moisture absorption area located in the upper part of the water accumulation device and a discharge area located in the lower part of the water accumulation device. When the element is located in the moisture absorption area during the rotation of the moisture absorption unit, the heater is in a non-powered state, and the air generated by the blower fan is applied to the polymer moisture absorbent. Thereby, moisture in the air is supplied to the polymer moisture absorbent. On the other hand, when the element is located in the discharge area during the rotation of the moisture absorption unit, the heater is in a powered state. Thereby, the polymer moisture absorbent is heated by the heater, and moisture is released from the polymer moisture absorbent.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in order to move the element to the moisture absorption area (the area where air from the blower fan blows), a rotation mechanism had to be provided to rotate the moisture absorption unit. Furthermore, in order to supply moisture to the polymer moisture absorbent in the moisture absorption area and release moisture from the polymer moisture absorbent in the release area, an interlocking mechanism had to be provided to turn the heater on and off depending on the area where the heater is located (moisture absorption area or release area) when the moisture absorption unit is rotating. As a result, the water accumulation device configuration was complex because a rotation mechanism and an interlocking mechanism were required.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a water accumulation device and a water accumulation method that can accumulate moisture with a simple configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the first aspect of the present application, the water collection device comprises a hygroscopic material and a heat-conducting member. The hygroscopic material contains a polymer compound having a property of changing the degree of hydrophilicity with temperature. The heat-conducting member is positioned opposite a part of the outer surface of the hygroscopic material and has thermal conductivity.

[0008] According to the second aspect of the present application, the water collection device comprises a hygroscopic material and a light source. The hygroscopic material contains a polymer compound having a property of changing the degree of hydrophilicity with temperature. The light source irradiates the hygroscopic material with light. The hygroscopic material contains a photothermal converter in the part that is exposed to the light, which converts light into heat.

[0009] According to the third aspect of the present application, the water collection device comprises a hygroscopic material and a light source. The hygroscopic material contains a photoresponsive polymer compound having the property of changing its degree of hydrophilicity in response to light. The light source irradiates the hygroscopic material with light.

[0010] According to the fourth aspect of the present application, a water accumulation method is used, wherein a hygroscopic material is used. The hygroscopic material contains a polymer compound having the property of changing its degree of hydrophilicity with temperature. The water accumulation method includes the step of arranging a heat conductive member opposite to a part of the outer surface of the hygroscopic material. The water accumulation method includes the step of allowing the hygroscopic material to absorb moisture. The water accumulation method includes the step of reducing the degree of hydrophilicity of the polymer compound by heating the heat conductive member. The water accumulation method includes the step of releasing moisture from the hygroscopic material. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, moisture can be accumulated with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a water collection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a water collection device. [Figure 2B] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a moisture absorbent. [Figure 3A] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a water collection device. [Figure 3B] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a moisture absorbent. [Figure 4A] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a water collection device. [Figure 4B] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a moisture absorbent. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of a water collection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of a water collection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] This is a schematic diagram of a water collection device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] This is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of a water collection device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of a water collection device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of a water collection device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram of a water accumulation device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description will not be repeated.

[0014] [First Embodiment] Referring to FIG. 1, a water accumulation device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the water accumulation device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The water accumulation device 100 is a device for accumulating water.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the water accumulation device 100 includes a moisture absorbent 10, a heat conduction member 20, a heat source 30, and a blower 40.

[0016] The moisture absorbent 10 reversibly performs moisture absorption of moisture (water vapor) in the air and release of the absorbed moisture. The moisture absorbent 10 contains a predetermined polymer compound having a property that the degree of hydrophilicity changes depending on temperature (heat). The predetermined polymer compound includes a temperature-responsive polymer whose affinity for water reversibly changes in response to heat.

[0017] The temperature-responsive polymer is a polymer having a lower critical solution temperature (LCST). The temperature-responsive polymer becomes hydrophobic when the temperature is above the phase transition temperature. The temperature-responsive polymer is hydrophilic at a low temperature below the phase transition temperature. The temperature-responsive polymer is a polymer that dissolves in water at a low temperature below the phase transition temperature but becomes hydrophobic and insoluble when the temperature is above the phase transition temperature. The temperature-responsive polymer is more preferably porous, but does not necessarily have to be porous.

[0018] Examples of temperature-responsive polymers include poly(N-isopropyl(meth)acrylamide), poly(N-n-propyl(meth)acrylamide), poly(N-methyl(meth)acrylamide), poly(N-ethyl(meth)acrylamide), poly(N-n-butyl(meth)acrylamide), poly(N-isobutyl(meth)acrylamide), poly(Nt-butyl(meth)acrylamide), and other poly(N-alkyl(meth)acrylamide); poly(N-vinylisopropylamide), poly(N-vinyln-propylamide), poly(N-vinyln-butylamide), poly(N-vinylisobutylamide), and poly(N-vinyl-t-butylamide). Examples include poly(N-vinylalkylamides); poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone); poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazolines) such as poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline), poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline), and poly(2-n-propyl-2-oxazoline); polyvinyl alkyl ethers such as polyvinyl methyl ether and polyvinyl ethyl ether; copolymers of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide; poly(oxyethylene vinyl ether); cellulose derivatives such as methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, and copolymers of these polymers.

[0019] Furthermore, temperature-responsive polymers may also be crosslinked polymers of these polymers. When a temperature-responsive polymer is a crosslinked polymer, examples of such crosslinked polymers include N-alkyl(meth)acrylamides such as N-isopropyl(meth)acrylamide, N-n-propyl(meth)acrylamide, N-methyl(meth)acrylamide, N-ethyl(meth)acrylamide, N-n-butyl(meth)acrylamide, N-isobutyl(meth)acrylamide, and Nt-butyl(meth)acrylamide; N-vinylalkylamides such as N-vinylisopropylamide, N-vinyln-propylamide, N-vinyln-butylamide, N-vinylisobutylamide, and N-vinyl-t-butylamide; vinyl alkyl ethers such as vinyl methyl ether and vinyl ethyl ether; ethylene oxide and propylene oxide; and monomers such as 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline, 2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline, and 2-n-propyl-2-oxazoline, or polymers obtained by polymerizing two or more of these monomers in the presence of a crosslinking agent.

[0020] As the crosslinking agent, conventionally known agents may be appropriately selected and used. For example, crosslinkable monomers having polymerizable functional groups such as ethylene glycol di(meth)acrylate, propylene glycol di(meth)acrylate, N,N'-methylenebis(meth)acrylamide, tolylene diisocyanate, divinylbenzene, polyethylene glycol di(meth)acrylate; glutaraldehyde; polyhydric alcohols; polyhydric amines; polyhydric carboxylic acids; and metal ions such as calcium ions and zinc ions can be suitably used. These crosslinking agents may be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0021] The moisture absorber 10 has a first state and a second state. The first state is a state in which the moisture absorber 10 can absorb moisture because the affinity between a predetermined polymer compound contained in the moisture absorber 10 and water is improved (the degree of hydrophilicity is improved). When the moisture absorber 10 in the first state absorbs moisture, it swells and becomes more able to hold moisture. The second state is a state in which the moisture absorber 10 releases moisture because the affinity between a predetermined polymer compound contained in the moisture absorber 10 and water is reduced (the degree of hydrophilicity is reduced). When the moisture absorber 10 in the second state shrinks and it becomes difficult to retain moisture. When the temperature of the moisture absorber 10 is below the phase transition temperature (for example, about 40°C), the moisture absorber 10 is in the first state, and when the temperature of the moisture absorber 10 is above the phase transition temperature, the moisture absorber 10 is in the second state.

[0022] In the first embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 is configured to enter a first state at room temperature (when the ambient temperature is at a standard temperature), and to enter a second state when heated from this state.

[0023] In the first embodiment, when the desiccant 10 changes from a first state to a second state (phase transition), the desiccant 10 is heated to a predetermined heating temperature. The predetermined heating temperature is a temperature (for example, 40°C or higher and less than 80°C) at which the state of the desiccant 10 is maintained in the second state, and at which the majority of the moisture contained in the desiccant 10 does not turn into water vapor in a short time, but remains in a liquid state. As a result, the moisture contained in the desiccant 10 is released from the desiccant 10 in a liquid state.

[0024] In the first embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular prism shape. The outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material 10 includes a first surface 11, a second surface 12, a third surface 13, a fourth surface 14, a fifth surface 15, and a sixth surface 16. The first surface 11 constitutes the top surface of the moisture-absorbing material 10. The second surface 12 constitutes the bottom surface of the moisture-absorbing material 10 and faces the first surface 11. The third to sixth surfaces 13 are located between the first surface 11 and the second surface 12. The third surface 13 and the fifth surface 15 constitute the side surfaces of the moisture-absorbing material 10 and face each other. The fourth surface 14 constitutes the front surface of the moisture-absorbing material 10, and the sixth surface 16 constitutes the rear surface of the moisture-absorbing material 10. The fourth surface 14 and the sixth surface 16 face each other. The shape of the moisture-absorbing material 10 is not particularly limited.

[0025] The heat conductive member 20 has thermal conductivity. The heat conductive member 20 is made of, for example, metal. The heat conductive member 20 is formed in a mesh shape. The heat conductive member 20 includes through holes 20a that penetrate the heat conductive member 20.

[0026] The heat conduction member 20 is positioned opposite a portion of the outer surface of the moisture absorber 10. This opposing positioning includes not only cases where the heat conduction member 20 is in contact with a portion of the outer surface of the moisture absorber 10, but also cases where the heat conduction member 20 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the portion of the outer surface of the moisture absorber 10. The predetermined distance is sufficient to allow the heat emitted from the heat conduction member 20 to be transferred to the moisture absorber 10. Furthermore, the heat conduction member 20 is not positioned opposite another portion of the outer surface of the moisture absorber 10, but is positioned so as to leave the other portion of the outer surface open.

[0027] In the first embodiment, the heat conduction member 20 is positioned opposite the first surface 11 of the moisture absorbent material 10. Also in the first embodiment, on the outer surface of the moisture absorbent material 10, the first surface 11, which is the surface on which the heat conduction member 20 is positioned opposite (part of the outer surface), and the second surface 12, which is the surface that is open because the heat conduction member 20 is not positioned opposite (another part of the outer surface), are facing away from each other and are located on the same line.

[0028] The heat source 30 heats the heat conduction member 20. The heat source 30 includes, for example, a heater. The configuration of the heat source 30 is not particularly limited. For example, the heat source 30 may heat the heat conduction member 20 by passing an electric current through it, without using a heater.

[0029] The air blower 40 blows air onto the moisture absorbent material 10. The air blower 40 includes, for example, a blower fan and a power source (for example, a motor) that rotates the blower fan. In the first embodiment, the blower fan of the air blower 40 is positioned opposite the heat conduction member 20 and is configured to blow air onto the moisture absorbent material 10 through the through-hole 20a of the heat conduction member 20. Alternatively, a heater, which is a heat source 30, may be placed between the air blower 40 (blower fan) and the heat conduction member 20, so that air from the air blower 40 flows in the order of heater, heat conduction member 20, and moisture absorbent material 10.

[0030] Next, the operation of the water collection device 100 will be explained with reference to Figures 2A to 4B. Figures 2A to 4A are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the water collection device 100. Figures 2B to 4B are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the desiccant 10. In Figures 1 to 7B, the desiccant 10 in the first state is represented by dot hatching, and the desiccant 10 in the second state is represented by diagonal lines.

[0031] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the moisture absorbent 10 is in a first state before the heat source 30 heats the heat conduction member 20. That is, the moisture absorbent 10 is highly hydrophilic and readily absorbs moisture. When the moisture absorbent 10 is in the first state, air is blown onto the moisture absorbent 10 by the air blower 40. As a result, moisture from the air can be effectively absorbed by the moisture absorbent 10.

[0032] As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, when the moisture absorbent 10 is in a first state containing moisture, the heat conductive member 20 is heated by the heat source 30. When the heat conductive member 20 is heated, the heat from the heat conductive member 20 is transferred to the moisture absorbent 10. At this time, the heat conductive member 20 heats the moisture absorbent 10 to a predetermined heating temperature (for example, 40°C or higher and less than 80°C). As a result, the degree of hydrophilicity of a predetermined polymer compound contained in the moisture absorbent 10 decreases, causing the moisture absorbent 10 to change from the first state to the second state.

[0033] Heat from the heat conductive member 20 is gradually transferred from the first surface 11 of the moisture absorber 10 (the surface of the moisture absorber 10 facing the heat conductive member 20) to the second surface 12 (the surface of the moisture absorber 10 not facing the heat conductive member 20). At this time, first, the first surface 11 of the moisture absorber 10 is heated to a predetermined heating temperature. Then, the area of ​​the moisture absorber 10 that has been heated to the predetermined heating temperature gradually increases from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12. As a result, the moisture absorber 10 gradually changes from a first state to a second state from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12. That is, the moisture absorber 10 gradually changes from a highly hydrophilic state to a less hydrophilic state from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12. Furthermore, the moisture absorber 10 contracts when it changes from the first state to the second state. As a result, within the moisture-absorbing material 10, the first surface 11 side acts as a skin layer (wall) that prevents water movement, and the area of ​​the skin layer gradually expands toward the second surface 12 side, so that the moisture that was present on the first surface 11 side also moves toward the second surface 12 side.

[0034] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the heat conductive member 20 is further heated by the heat source 30, causing the region of the moisture absorbent 10 in the second state (the skin layer region) to expand toward the second surface 12. In other words, the region with low hydrophilicity expands toward the second surface 12. As a result, the moisture contained in the moisture absorbent 10 is pushed toward the second surface 12, where it accumulates, and then seeps out as water droplets from the second surface 12, being squeezed out of the moisture absorbent 10. The moisture X released from the second surface 12 of the moisture absorbent 10 is, for example, contained in a container Y located below the second surface 12.

[0035] As explained above with reference to Figures 1 to 4B, the heat conductive member 20 is positioned opposite a part of the outer surface (first surface 11) of the moisture absorber 10. By heating the heat conductive member 20, the moisture absorber 10 is heated from the first surface 11 side, causing moisture to be released from the second surface 12 (see Figures 4A and 4B). As a result, moisture can be released from the moisture absorber 10 without moving either the moisture absorber 10 or the heat conductive member 20, while keeping their respective positions fixed. Consequently, the configuration of the water accumulation device 100 can be simplified, allowing moisture to be accumulated with a simple configuration.

[0036] Furthermore, when the moisture-absorbing material 10 in the first state absorbs moisture from the air, air from the blower unit 40 can be blown onto the moisture-absorbing material 10 through the heat-conducting member 20 via the through-hole 20a. As a result, the heat-conducting member 20 and the blower unit 40 (blower fan) can be installed on the same side relative to the moisture-absorbing material 10, allowing the water collection device 100 to be configured compactly.

[0037] Furthermore, the moisture absorbent 10 can undergo a phase transition by heating it to a temperature of 40°C or higher but less than 80°C. Therefore, compared to zeolite, silica gel, etc., the moisture absorbent 10 can release the water it has absorbed at a lower temperature. For example, to release the water absorbed by zeolite, a temperature of 200°C or higher is required.

[0038] The material of the heat conductive member 20 is not particularly limited, as long as it is a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat conductive member 20 may be made of a high thermal conductivity resin.

[0039] In this embodiment, the orientation of the water-releasing surface (second surface 12) is downward, but since the change of the moisture-absorbing material 10 from the first state to the second state is the driving force behind water release, the orientation of the water-releasing surface (second surface 12) is not limited to downward. In other words, the orientation of the water-releasing surface (second surface 12) is not limited to the direction of gravity. The orientation of the water-releasing surface (second surface 12) may be upward or sideways. Preferably, the orientation of the water-releasing surface (second surface 12) is downward or sideways.

[0040] [Second Embodiment] Referring to Figure 5, a water collection device 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a water collection device 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, the water collection device 200 comprises a moisture-absorbing material 10, a heat-conducting member 21, a heat source 30 (not shown), and a blower unit 40 (not shown).

[0042] The heat conduction member 21 is a first modification of the heat conduction member 20 of the first embodiment (see Figure 1). The heat conduction member 21 has a plurality of through holes 21a that penetrate through the heat conduction member 21. The heat conduction member 21 is thermally conductive and is made of, for example, metal. The heat conduction member 21 is manufactured, for example, by forming a plurality of through holes 21a in a plate-shaped base material. The heat conduction member 21 is, for example, perforated metal. The heat conduction member 21 is positioned opposite a part of the outer surface (first surface 11) of the moisture absorbent material 10. The shape of the through holes 21a (shape when viewed from above) is not particularly limited. The shape of the through holes 21a may be, for example, circular, elliptical, elongated, or linear. Alternatively, the shape of the through holes 21a may be polygonal, or a complex shape such as a star.

[0043] The airflow from the blower 40 is directed onto the moisture-absorbing material 10 through the through-hole 21a. As a result, the moisture-absorbing material 10 in the first state can effectively absorb moisture from the air.

[0044] With the moisture-absorbing material 10 in its first state containing moisture, the heat-conducting member 21 is heated by the heat source 30. At this time, the moisture-absorbing material 10 gradually heats up to a predetermined heating temperature, moving from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12. As a result, the moisture that was present on the first surface 11 of the moisture-absorbing material 10 moves to the second surface 12 and is released to the outside of the moisture-absorbing material 10 from the second surface 12 (see Figures 4A and 4B).

[0045] The material of the heat conductive member 21 is not particularly limited, as long as it is a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat conductive member 21 may be formed from a high thermal conductivity resin.

[0046] [Third Embodiment] Referring to Figure 6, a water collection device 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a water collection device 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] As shown in Figure 6, the water collection device 300 comprises a moisture-absorbing material 10, a heat-conducting member 22, a heat source 30 (not shown), and a blower unit 40 (not shown).

[0048] The heat conduction member 22 is a second modification of the heat conduction member 20 of the first embodiment (see Figure 1). The heat conduction member 22 has thermal conductivity and is made of, for example, metal. The heat conduction member 22 includes a plurality of metal plates 221. The plurality of metal plates 221 are arranged in parallel with a gap 22a between them and are positioned facing a part of the outer surface (first surface 11) of the moisture absorbent material 10.

[0049] The airflow from the blower 40 is directed onto the desiccant 10 through the gaps 22a between the multiple metal plates 221. As a result, the desiccant 10 in the first state can effectively absorb moisture from the air.

[0050] With the moisture-absorbing material 10 in its first state containing moisture, the heat-conducting member 22 (multiple metal plates 221) is heated by the heat source 30. As a result, the moisture contained in the moisture-absorbing material 10 is released to the outside of the moisture-absorbing material 10 from the second surface 12 (see Figures 4A and 4B).

[0051] The material of the heat conductive member 22 is not particularly limited, as long as it is a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat conductive member 22 may be made of a high thermal conductivity resin.

[0052] [Fourth Embodiment] A water collection device 400 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 7A and 7B. Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the water collection device 400 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] As shown in Figure 7A, the water collection device 400 comprises a moisture-absorbing material 10, a heat-conducting member 20 (see Figure 1), a heat source 30 (not shown), and a blower unit 40 (not shown).

[0054] The heat conduction member 20 is positioned opposite the first surface 11 and the third surface 13 to the sixth surface 16 (see Figure 1) of the outer surface of the moisture absorbent material 10. In other words, the heat conduction member 20 is opposite all surfaces of the outer surface of the moisture absorbent material 10 except for the second surface 12.

[0055] As the heat conductive member 20 is heated by the heat source 30, the state of the moisture absorber 10 gradually changes from the first state to the second state, moving inward from the first surface 11 and each of the third to sixth surfaces 13 to 16 of the moisture absorber 10. As a result, the moisture contained in the moisture absorber 10 moves inward, and moisture accumulates from the center to the bottom of the moisture absorber 10, leading to uneven distribution of moisture within the moisture absorber 10. Subsequently, moisture accumulates in the center of the second surface 12, and as a result, water is released from the second surface 12 to the outside of the moisture absorber 10.

[0056] In the fourth embodiment, a heat conductive member 21 (see Figure 5) or a heat conductive member 22 (see Figure 6) may be used instead of the heat conductive member 20.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the orientation of the second surface 12 is downward (direction of gravity), but as explained in Embodiment 1, the orientation of the second surface 12 is not limited to downward (direction of gravity).

[0058] A modified example of the water collection device 400 will be described with reference to Figure 7B. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the water collection device 400 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 7B, the moisture absorbent 10 may be formed in a frustoconical shape, such as a truncated cone or a truncated square pyramid. By making the moisture absorbent 10 frustoconical, the ability to recover absorbed water can be increased. Specifically, when the moisture absorbent 10 is frustoconical, compared to when the moisture absorbent 10 is prismatic, the transfer of heat to the center of the moisture absorbent 10 is slower in the region of the moisture absorbent 10 that is closer to the second surface 12. Therefore, the change to the second state of the center of the moisture absorbent 10 is slower in the region that is closer to the second surface 12. As a result, the change to the second state (hydrophobicity) of the center of the second surface 12 is slower than in other parts, and it maintains hydrophilicity until the end. Therefore, moisture moves from other parts to the center of the second surface 12, and moisture accumulates in the center of the second surface 12. Furthermore, the central part of the second surface 12 functions as a water conduit, promoting the release of water from the moisture-absorbing material 10 to the outside.

[0059] Furthermore, if the moisture-absorbing material 10 is shaped like a frustum, the amount of water released from the second surface 12 to the outside of the moisture-absorbing material 10 can be adjusted by adjusting the degree of expansion of the frustum. In other words, the moisture-absorbing material 10 can function as a faucet.

[0060] [Fifth Embodiment] Referring to Figure 8, a water collection device 500 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a water collection device 500 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] As shown in Figure 8, the water collection device 500 comprises a moisture-absorbing material 10, a heat-conducting member 20 (see Figure 1), a heat source 30 (not shown), and an air blower 40 (not shown).

[0062] The heat conduction member 20 is positioned opposite the first surface 11 and the third to sixth surfaces 13 to 16 of the moisture absorbent material 10.

[0063] The first surface 11 and the third to sixth surfaces 13 to 16 are examples of opposing surfaces of the present invention. The second surface 12 is an example of a non-opposing surface of the present invention.

[0064] The moisture-absorbing material 10 has multiple layers. The multiple layers are stacked from the first surface 11 side toward the second surface 12 side.

[0065] In the fifth embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 has a first layer 10A, a second layer 10B, and a third layer 10C. The first to third layers 10A to 3rd layers 10C are stacked in the order of first layer 10A, second layer 10B, and third layer 10C, from the first surface 11 side to the second surface 12 side of the moisture-absorbing material 10.

[0066] A first surface 11 is formed on the first layer 10A. A second surface 12 is formed on the third layer 10C.

[0067] The third layer 10C is positioned closer to the second surface 12 (non-opposing surface) than the first layer 10A. The first layer 10A is an example of the first layer of the present invention. The third layer 10C is an example of the second layer of the present invention.

[0068] The phase transition temperature (temperature at which the material changes from the first state to the second state) increases in the order of the first layer 10A, the second layer 10B, and the third layer 10C. In other words, the phase transition temperature of the moisture-absorbing material 10 increases as it moves downwards. Therefore, the hydrophilicity increases in the order of the first layer 10A, the second layer 10B, and the third layer 10C, and the material becomes more readily absorbent of moisture. For example, the phase transition temperature of the first layer 10A is 40°C, the phase transition temperature of the second layer 10B is 45°C, and the phase transition temperature of the third layer 10C is 50°C. The lower limit of the temperature at which the material changes from the first state to the second state (phase transition temperature) is an example of the temperature at which the degree of hydrophilicity of the polymer compound in this invention becomes lower than a predetermined standard.

[0069] If the moisture-absorbing material 10 is porous, it is desirable that the total surface area of ​​all pores decreases in the order of the first layer 10A, the second layer 10B, and the third layer 10C. Specifically, in the first to third layers 10A to 10C, the size of the pores may decrease in the order of the first layer 10A, the second layer 10B, and the third layer 10C. Furthermore, it is even more desirable that in the first to third layers 10A to 10C, the number of pores decreases and the size of the pores decreases in the order of the first layer 10A, the second layer 10B, and the third layer 10C.

[0070] The higher the temperature at which the moisture-absorbing material 10 changes from the first state to the second state (phase transition temperature), the more hydrophilic it becomes and the easier it is to absorb moisture. Therefore, when heat is transferred, moisture is released first from the layer with the lower phase transition temperature, and water moves from the layer with the lower phase transition temperature to the adjacent layer (the layer with a higher phase transition temperature and higher hydrophilicity). For example, water moves from the first layer 10A to the second layer 10B. Thus, the difference in phase transition temperatures or the gradient of phase transition temperatures strongly promotes the movement of water associated with heat transfer and prevents backflow of water.

[0071] Furthermore, if the moisture absorbent 10 is porous, a larger surface area (the sum of the surface areas of all pores) is advantageous for moisture absorption. On the other hand, a smaller surface area results in less evaporation loss. Therefore, the smaller the surface area of ​​the moisture absorbent 10, the easier it is for it to release moisture as liquid water when it reaches the second state. Consequently, by decreasing the surface area in the order of the first layer 10A, the second layer 10B, and the third layer 10C, when the moisture absorbent 10 is heated to a predetermined heating temperature to release moisture from the moisture absorbent 10, the moisture contained in the moisture absorbent 10 can be effectively moved as liquid water from the first layer 10A through the second layer 10B to the third layer 10C. As a result, the moisture collected in the third layer 10C can be effectively released as liquid water to the outside of the moisture absorbent 10 from the second surface 12 of the third layer 10C (see Figures 4A and 4B).

[0072] Furthermore, the larger the surface area of ​​the moisture absorbent material 10, the greater the evaporation loss during heating and dehydration, but conversely, the easier it is to absorb moisture in both gaseous and liquid forms during moisture absorption. Therefore, by increasing the surface area of ​​the pores in the first layer 10A, which is easily exposed to air from the air blower 40, the moisture absorbent material 10 becomes more efficient at absorbing moisture (water vapor) from the air in the first layer 10A.

[0073] Furthermore, the temperature at which the heat conductive member 20 is heated may be gradually increased from a temperature near the phase transition temperature of the first layer 10A to a temperature above the phase transition temperature of the third layer 10C. This reduces the amount of moisture lost from the desiccant 10 due to evaporation and inability to accumulate (evaporation loss). In other words, the efficiency of collecting liquid water can be further improved. The speed at which the temperature of the heat conductive member 20 is increased is determined by factors such as the thickness of the desiccant 10, the composition of the desiccant 10, the number of pores, and the ratio of the volume occupied by pores to the volume occupied by the bulk portion.

[0074] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the heat conductive member 20 may be configured not to be positioned opposite the third surface 13 to the sixth surface 16, but to be positioned opposite only the first surface 11, as shown in Figure 1.

[0075] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, a heat conductive member 21 (see Figure 5) or a heat conductive member 22 (see Figure 6) may be used instead of the heat conductive member 20.

[0076] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the moisture absorbent 10 may be frustum-shaped. By making the moisture absorbent 10 frustum-shaped, the ability to recover absorbed water can be increased.

[0077] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 had three layers (first layer 10A to third layer 10C), but the moisture-absorbing material 10 may have two layers, or four or more layers.

[0078] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 had multiple layers, but the moisture-absorbing material 10 may be configured such that the phase transition temperature gradually changes from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12. When the phase transition temperature changes, the hydrophilicity changes.

[0079] For example, the moisture-absorbing material 10 may be configured such that the phase transition temperature is higher in the portion closer to the second surface 12. With this configuration, by controlling the degree of change in the phase transition temperature from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12, water movement and water accumulation can be promoted, and the amount of moisture released from the second surface 12 per unit time and the rate at which moisture is released from the second surface 12 can be controlled. Furthermore, even with this configuration, by gradually increasing the temperature at which the heat-conducting member 20 is heated, evaporation losses can be reduced and the efficiency of collecting liquid water can be further improved.

[0080] Furthermore, if the moisture-absorbing material 10 is porous, the moisture-absorbing material 10 may be configured such that the surface area becomes smaller in the part closer to the second surface 12. With this configuration, by controlling the degree of change in surface area from the first surface 11 to the second surface 12, it is possible to make it easier to absorb moisture from the first surface 11 and to release liquid water from the second surface 12. In addition, it is possible to control the amount of moisture released from the second surface 12 per unit time and the rate at which moisture is released from the second surface 12.

[0081] [Sixth Embodiment] Referring to Figure 9, a water collection device 600 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a water collection device 600 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] As shown in Figure 9, the water collection device 600 comprises a moisture-absorbing material 10, a heat-conducting member 20 (see Figure 1), a heat source 30 (not shown), and a blower unit 40 (not shown).

[0083] The heat conductive member 20 is positioned opposite the first surface 11 of the moisture-absorbing material 10 and the third to sixth surfaces 13 to 16. Hereinafter, the first surface 11 and the third to sixth surfaces 13 to 16 may be collectively referred to as the opposing surfaces.

[0084] The moisture-absorbing material 10 has multiple layers.

[0085] In the sixth embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 has a fourth layer 10D, a fifth layer 10E, and a sixth layer 10F. Of the fourth to sixth layers 10D to 10F, the fourth layer 10D is located on the outermost side, the fifth layer 10E is located inside the fourth layer 10D, and the sixth layer 10F is located inside the fifth layer 10E. The fourth layer 10D has opposing surfaces (first surface 11, and third to sixth surfaces 13 to 16) that face the heat-conducting member 20. The sixth layer 10F has a second surface 12.

[0086] The sixth layer 10F is positioned further away from the opposing surfaces (first surface 11, and third surfaces 13 to sixth surfaces 16) than the fourth layer 10D. The fourth layer 10D is an example of the first layer of the present invention. The sixth layer 10F is an example of the second layer of the present invention.

[0087] The phase transition temperatures of the fourth layer 10D to the sixth layer 10F increase in the order of fourth layer 10D, fifth layer 10E, and sixth layer 10F. Therefore, the phase transition temperature of the moisture absorbent material 10 increases towards the inside. As a result, when the moisture absorbent material 10 is heated to a predetermined heating temperature to release moisture from the moisture absorbent material 10, the moisture contained in the moisture absorbent material 10 can be effectively moved as liquid water from the fourth layer 10D through the fifth layer 10E to the sixth layer 10F. Consequently, the moisture collected in the sixth layer 10F (the most hydrophilic layer) can be effectively released as liquid water to the outside of the moisture absorbent material 10 from the second surface 12 of the sixth layer 10F (see Figures 4A and 4B). Furthermore, if the moisture-absorbing material 10 is porous, increasing the surface area (the sum of the surface areas of all pores) from the innermost sixth layer 10F to the outermost fourth layer 10D improves the moisture absorption rate, thereby optimizing the moisture absorption and dewatering capabilities of the moisture-absorbing material 10.

[0088] Furthermore, the temperature at which the heat conductive member 20 is heated may be gradually increased from a temperature near the phase transition temperature of the fourth layer 10D to a temperature above the phase transition temperature of the sixth layer 10F. This reduces evaporation loss and further improves the efficiency of collecting liquid water.

[0089] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, a heat conductive member 21 (see Figure 5) or a heat conductive member 22 (see Figure 6) may be used instead of the heat conductive member 20.

[0090] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, the moisture absorbent 10 may be frustum-shaped. By making the moisture absorbent 10 frustum-shaped, the ability to recover absorbed water can be increased.

[0091] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, the moisture-absorbing material 10 had three layers (fourth layer 10D to sixth layer 10F), but the moisture-absorbing material 10 may have two layers, or four or more layers.

[0092] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, the moisture absorbent 10 had multiple layers, but the moisture absorbent 10 may be configured such that the phase transition temperature is higher in the portion closer to the center of the second surface 12. With this configuration, by controlling the degree of change in the phase transition temperature from the opposing surfaces (first surface 11, and third surfaces 13 to sixth surfaces 16) to the center of the second surface 12, it is possible to control the amount of moisture released from the center of the second surface 12 per unit time and the rate at which moisture is released from the center of the second surface 12. Moreover, polymers with higher phase transition temperatures are more hydrophilic and absorb moisture more easily, so by configuring the moisture absorbent 10 such that the phase transition temperature is higher in the portion further away from the opposing surfaces (first surface 11, and third surfaces 13 to sixth surfaces 16), moisture can be collected and released more efficiently. Furthermore, even in this configuration, by gradually increasing the temperature at which the heat conductive member 20 is heated, evaporation loss can be reduced and the efficiency of collecting liquid water can be further improved.

[0093] Furthermore, if the moisture-absorbing material 10 is porous, the moisture-absorbing material 10 may be configured such that the surface area (sum of the surface area of ​​the pores) gradually changes from the opposing surfaces (first surface 11, and third surfaces 13 to sixth surfaces 16) to the center of the second surface 12. For example, the moisture-absorbing material 10 may be configured such that the surface area becomes smaller the closer it is to the center of the second surface 12. With this configuration, by controlling the degree of change in surface area from the opposing surfaces (first surface 11, and third surfaces 13 to sixth surfaces 16) to the center of the second surface 12, it is possible to improve moisture absorption efficiency while reducing evaporation loss.

[0094] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, a portion of the outer surface (bottom surface) of each of the layers with a lower phase transition temperature than the sixth layer 10F (the fourth layer 10D and the fifth layer 10E) constitutes a portion of the second surface 12. Therefore, evaporation loss from the second surface 12 is greater compared to the case where the second surface 12 is composed only of the outer surface of the sixth layer 10F. For this reason, the second surface 12 may be composed only of the outer surface of the sixth layer 10F, for example, as shown in Figure 10. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a water accumulation device 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention. According to the water accumulation device 600 shown in Figure 10, evaporation loss from the second surface 12 can be reduced.

[0095] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings (Figures 1 to 10). However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention (for example, (1) to (7)). Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiments. The drawings schematically show each component in order to make them easy to understand, and the number of each component shown may differ from the actual number due to the convenience of drawing creation. Also, each component shown in the above embodiments is just an example and is not particularly limiting, and various modifications are possible without substantially departing from the effects of the present invention.

[0096] (1) In the first to sixth embodiments and other embodiments, a heater was used as the heat source 30 for heating the heat conduction members 20, 21, and 22, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The configuration for heating the heat conduction members 20, 21, and 22 is not particularly limited. For example, the heat conduction members 20, 21, and 22 may be heated by irradiating them with sunlight. In this case, the heat conduction members 20, 21, and 22 can be effectively heated by making the outer surface of the heat conduction members 20, 21, and 22 black.

[0097] (2) In the first to sixth embodiments and other embodiments, the moisture absorbent 10 was changed from the first state to the second state by heating it, but the moisture absorbent 10 may also be changed from the first state to the second state by irradiating it with light. Specifically, the moisture absorbent 10 may contain a photothermal converter (particles, etc.). The photothermal converter converts light into heat.

[0098] If the heat-responsive moisture absorber 10 contains a photothermal converter, the moisture absorber 10 can be changed from a first state to a second state by irradiating it with light. As the photothermal converter, for example, carbon black nanoparticles can be used. In addition, common metal oxides such as silica, alumina, aluminosilicate, titania, zirconia, and iron oxide, as well as gold nanoparticles, can be used as photothermal converters. Alternatively, although there are difficulties with high temperatures, common cross-linked resin particles such as nylon, PMMA, silicone, Teflon (registered trademark), polyethylene, and polystyrene can also be used as photothermal converters under certain conditions. When irradiating the moisture absorber 10 with light, the water accumulation devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 are equipped with a light source such as a lamp, LED, or laser instead of the heat source 30 and heat conductive members 20, 21, and 22.

[0099] Furthermore, if the moisture absorbent 10 contains a photothermal converter, the moisture absorbent 10 may contain the photothermal converter only in the portion exposed to light. Alternatively, the moisture absorbent 10 may be formed such that the amount of photothermal converter decreases in the portion further away from the portion exposed to light. In other words, the moisture absorbent 10 may be formed such that the concentration of the photothermal converter decreases in the portion further away from the portion exposed to light. Also, if the moisture absorbent 10 contains a photothermal converter only in the portion exposed to light, the portion that does not contain the photothermal converter may have multiple thermally responsive layers, as explained with reference to, for example, Figures 8 to 10.

[0100] (3) In the first to sixth embodiments and other embodiments, the moisture absorbent 10 was changed from the first state to the second state by heating it, but the moisture absorbent 10 may also be changed from the first state to the second state by irradiating it with light. Specifically, a photoresponsive moisture absorbent may be used as the moisture absorbent 10. The photoresponsive moisture absorbent contains a photoresponsive polymer whose affinity for water reversibly changes in response to light. When a photoresponsive moisture absorbent is used as the moisture absorbent 10, the moisture absorbent 10 can be changed from the first state to the second state by irradiating it with light. Alternatively, the moisture absorbent 10 may contain a photoresponsive polymer and a temperature-responsive polymer. In this case, the moisture absorbent 10 has a photoresponsive polymer in the part that is exposed to light. The photoresponsive polymer generates heat when it responds to light. This heat causes the temperature-responsive polymer to change from the first state to the second state.

[0101] Examples of photoresponsive polymers include polymer compounds whose hydrophilicity or polarity changes upon exposure to light, such as azobenzene derivatives and spiropyran derivatives. Alternatively, the photoresponsive moisture absorber may contain a crosslinked photoresponsive polymer. Alternatively, the photoresponsive moisture absorber may contain a copolymer of at least one of a temperature-responsive polymer and a pH-responsive polymer with a photoresponsive polymer, or a crosslinked copolymer thereof. When light is irradiated onto the moisture absorber 10, the water accumulation devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 are equipped with a light source such as a lamp, LED, or laser instead of the heat source 30 and heat conduction members 20, 21, and 22.

[0102] Furthermore, when a photoresponsive moisture absorbent is used as the moisture absorbent 10, the moisture absorbent 10 may be formed such that the photoresponsiveness decreases in areas further away from the light-exposed area. Also, if the moisture absorbent 10 contains a photoresponsive polymer only in the areas exposed to light, the areas that do not contain the photoresponsive polymer may have multiple thermally responsive layers, as explained with reference to Figures 8 to 10, for example.

[0103] (4) In the first to sixth embodiments and other embodiments, the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 are configured to include a blower 40. This allows the moisture absorber 10 to effectively absorb moisture from the air by blowing air from the blower 40 onto the moisture absorber 10 in the first state. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 do not need to include a blower 40. That is, the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 may be configured so that the moisture absorber 10 in the first state absorbs moisture from the air that naturally comes into contact with the outer surface of the moisture absorber 10. This simplifies the configuration of the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600.

[0104] (5) The use of the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 is not particularly limited. The water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 may be used, for example, in a dehumidifier, as a drinking water collection device for collecting drinking water, or as a device for collecting water for purposes other than drinking. For example, the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 may be used as a gardening water collection device for collecting water for gardening. When the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 are used as a drinking water collection device, a filtration device may be added separately to configure the drinking water collection device so that the water collected by the water collection devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 is purified by the filtration device before being provided as drinking water.

[0105] (6) In the first to sixth embodiments and other embodiments, the moisture absorbent 10 was substantially prismatic or frustoconical in shape, but the shape of the moisture absorbent 10 is not particularly limited. For example, the moisture absorbent 10 may be cylindrical, sheet-shaped, particle-shaped, or spherical.

[0106] (7) In the first to sixth embodiments and other embodiments, the portion of the moisture-absorbing material 10 that releases moisture (second surface 12) may be made into a tapered and protruding inclined shape. As a result, when releasing moisture from the moisture-absorbing material 10, moisture can be collected in the inclined portion of the moisture-absorbing material 10 and effectively released from the tip of the inclined portion. [Industrial applicability]

[0107] The present invention is applicable to the fields of water accumulation devices and water accumulation methods. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 10. Moisture absorbent 20, 21, 22 Heat conductive material 20a, 21a through hole 30 Heat source 40 Air blower 100 Water accumulation device

Claims

1. A moisture absorbent containing a polymer compound whose degree of hydrophilicity changes with temperature, A heat conductive member having thermal conductivity is positioned opposite a part of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material. Equipped with, The heat conductive member is positioned downstream of the air blowing section that blows air onto the outer surface of the moisture absorber, and upstream of the air blowing section, and has a ventilation section through which the air blown by the air blowing section onto the outer surface of the moisture absorber passes. The moisture-absorbing material is exposed to air blown from the air blowing section and passing through the ventilation section in a water collection device.

2. The water collection device according to claim 1, wherein the heat conducting member is arranged to leave another portion of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material open.

3. The water collection device according to claim 2, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material and another portion of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material are located on the same line.

4. The water accumulation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the heat conducting member includes a through hole that penetrates the heat conducting member as a ventilation portion.

5. A moisture absorbent containing a polymer compound whose degree of hydrophilicity changes with temperature, A heat conductive member having thermal conductivity is positioned opposite a part of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material. Equipped with, The heat conductive member is formed in a mesh shape, and the water collection device.

6. A moisture absorbent containing a polymer compound whose degree of hydrophilicity changes with temperature, A heat conductive member having thermal conductivity is positioned opposite a part of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material. Equipped with, The outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material includes multiple surfaces, The heat conductive member is positioned opposite all of the surfaces of the plurality of surfaces except for one surface, in a water accumulation device.

7. The outer surface of the aforementioned moisture-absorbing material is The opposing surface located on the side facing the heat conductive member, The non-facing surface located on the side not facing the heat conductive member and A water collection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, including the water collection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The aforementioned moisture absorbent is The first layer, The second layer is such that the temperature at which the degree of hydrophilicity of the polymer compound becomes higher than a predetermined standard is higher than that of the first layer. Includes, The water collection device according to claim 7, wherein the second layer is positioned closer to the non-opposing surface than the first layer, or is positioned at a distance from the opposing surface.

9. The aforementioned moisture absorbent is porous, The aforementioned moisture absorbent is The first layer, A second layer having a smaller surface area than the first layer and Includes, The water collection device according to claim 7, wherein the second layer is positioned closer to the non-opposing surface than the first layer, or is positioned at a distance from the opposing surface.

10. A moisture absorbent containing a polymer compound whose degree of hydrophilicity changes with temperature, A light source that irradiates the moisture absorber with light Equipped with, The aforementioned moisture-absorbing material contains a photothermal converter that converts light into heat in the part exposed to light, The amount of the photothermal converter is less in the part of the moisture absorbent that is further away from the part exposed to light. Water collection device.

11. A moisture absorbent containing a photoresponsive polymer compound that has the property of changing its degree of hydrophilicity in response to light, A light source that irradiates the moisture absorber with light Equipped with, The moisture-absorbing material contains the photoresponsive polymer compound in the part exposed to light, The aforementioned moisture-absorbing material further comprises a temperature-responsive polymer compound having the property of changing its degree of hydrophilicity with temperature, The aforementioned photoresponsive polymer compound generates heat when it responds to light, and the photoresponsiveness decreases the further away it is from the light source, in a water accumulation device.

12. A method for accumulating water using a hygroscopic material containing a polymer compound whose degree of hydrophilicity changes with temperature, A heat conductive member having a ventilation section that allows air blown by the air blowing section to the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material to pass through is positioned facing a part of the outer surface of the moisture-absorbing material on the downstream side of the air blowing section and on the upstream side of the air blowing section. The process involves allowing the moisture-absorbing material to absorb moisture by being exposed to air blown from the aforementioned air blowing section and passing through the aforementioned ventilation section, A step of reducing the degree of hydrophilicity of the polymer compound by heating the heat conductive member, A step of releasing moisture from the aforementioned moisture absorber A method for accumulating water, including the following.

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