Dehumidifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dehumidifier. The dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a case forming a suction unit; a dehumidification module provided inside the case and having an air contact area in the circumferential direction; and a heat exchanger provided in the inner circumferential surface-side of the dehumidification module. Due to such configuration, the contact area between the air and dehumidification module is increased, and the separated vapor can be effectively condensed. The dehumidification module comprises an outer circumferential surface portion that comes in contact with air and an inner circumferential surface portion that defines a flow-through portion, and the heat exchanger is disposed on the inner side of the inner circumferential surface portion to facilitate flow of the air that has passed through the dehumidification member into the heat exchanger.

Description

dehumidifier

[0001] The present invention relates to a dehumidifier.

[0002] A dehumidifier is a type of home appliance that lowers the humidity in a desired space by sucking in air from a desired space, removing the moisture contained in the air, and discharging the dehumidified air into the desired space.

[0003] Conventional dehumidifiers remove moisture by sucking in air from a desired space and passing it through a heat exchanger consisting of a condenser and an evaporator, thereby exchanging heat between the refrigerant flowing through the condenser and the air passing through the evaporator.

[0004] The evaporator absorbs heat from the surrounding air by evaporating the liquid refrigerant, and the condenser releases heat by condensing the gaseous refrigerant, thereby transferring the heat to the surrounding air. In other words, the air passing through the heat exchanger exchanges heat with the refrigerant as it passes through the evaporator, thereby lowering its humidity. As the air with reduced humidity passes through the condenser, it exchanges heat with the refrigerant, thereby undergoing a drying process.

[0005] The dried air passing through the above heat exchanger is discharged to the desired space, thereby lowering the humidity in the air of the desired space.

[0006] These conventional dehumidifiers had the problem of causing discomfort to the user due to the temperature of the discharged air rising.

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier capable of implementing constant temperature dehumidification without increasing the temperature of an indoor space by selectively separating moisture in the air through a dehumidification module including a membrane without operating a refrigeration cycle.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a dehumidifier in which dehumidification can be performed by passing through a dehumidification module without requiring time for stabilization of a refrigeration cycle, thereby shortening the dehumidification time.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier capable of increasing the amount of air sucked into the dehumidifier by forming a cylindrical suction portion.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier having a dehumidifying module having a cylindrical structure, thereby increasing the contact area of ​​air flow to the dehumidifying module and reducing the size of the dehumidifying module compared to dehumidifying modules of other shapes having the same contact area.

[0011] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier that can move water vapor in air passing through a dehumidifying module to the inside of a membrane by generating a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the membrane using a vacuum pump.

[0012] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier that facilitates the removal of condensed moisture by introducing water vapor separated from a dehumidifying module into a heat exchanger via a vacuum pump and exchanging heat with indoor air in the heat exchanger.

[0013] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier in which air passing through a dehumidifying member flows into the heat exchanger by arranging the heat exchanger on the inner surface of a dehumidifying module, thereby effectively condensing water vapor.

[0014] The present invention aims to provide a dehumidifier that does not require additional space for installation of a heat exchanger by configuring a heat exchanger including a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger arranged along the inner surface of a dehumidification module.

[0015] The present invention aims to provide a dehumidifier in which a heat exchanger is formed by combining a first part and a second part, and the heat exchanger includes a plurality of protrusions so as to increase the contact area between an air passage and a water vapor passage.

[0016] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier in which condensed moisture can be easily discharged by forming a steam path from the top to the bottom of a heat exchanger.

[0017] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier in which a drain tank for storing condensed water from a heat exchanger is arranged at the lower side of the heat exchanger, thereby facilitating the flow of condensed water in the direction of gravity.

[0018] A dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a case forming an intake portion, a dehumidifying module provided on the inside of the case and having a circumferential air contact area, and a heat exchanger provided on the inner peripheral surface of the dehumidifying module. With this configuration, the contact area between air and the dehumidifying module can be increased, and the separated water vapor can be effectively condensed.

[0019] The above dehumidifying module includes an outer peripheral surface that comes into contact with air and an inner peripheral surface that defines a penetration portion, and the heat exchanger is arranged on the inner side of the inner peripheral surface, so that air passing through the dehumidifying member can easily flow into the heat exchanger.

[0020] The above dehumidifier includes a fan that generates air flow, and when the fan operates, air sucked into the dehumidifier flows from the outer peripheral surface of the dehumidifying module toward the inner peripheral surface, and in this process, moisture (water vapor) in the humid air can be separated.

[0021] The above separated moisture is not 100% water, and can be understood as moist air with a high water vapor partial pressure.

[0022] The separated moisture is discharged through the connection port of the dehumidification module, and the air from which moisture has been separated can be introduced into a heat exchanger to condense the separated water vapor.

[0023] It may further include a connecting pipe through which moisture separated from the above dehumidifying module flows and a vacuum pump connected to the connecting pipe.

[0024] The above connecting pipe includes a first connecting pipe connected to the dehumidifying module and connected to the suction side of the vacuum pump, and water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module can be sucked into the vacuum pump through the first connecting pipe.

[0025] The above connecting pipe is connected to the discharge side of the vacuum pump and includes a second connecting pipe connected to the heat exchanger, and high-temperature steam discharged from the vacuum pump can be introduced into the heat exchanger through the second connecting pipe.

[0026] The above heat exchanger may be configured to exchange heat between air passing through the dehumidifying module and water vapor introduced through the second connecting pipe.

[0027] The above heat exchanger may include a steam path and an air path for heat exchange with the steam path.

[0028] Since the above heat exchanger includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger arranged along the inner circumference of the dehumidification module, additional space may not be required for installation of the heat exchanger.

[0029] The present invention comprises a heat exchanger formed by combining a first part and a second part, and the heat exchanger includes a plurality of protrusions to increase the contact area between the air flow path and the steam flow path, thereby effectively forming the air flow path and the steam flow path.

[0030] The first protrusion provided in the first part and the second protrusion provided in the second part are coupled to each other, and a steam path can be formed in the space defined by the first and second protrusions.

[0031] The first part includes a first hole, and the second part includes a second hole, and the first hole and the second hole can be connected to each other to form an air path through which air passing through the dehumidification module flows.

[0032] The above heat exchanger may include an inlet portion through which water vapor is introduced and a discharge portion through which condensed water (condensate) is discharged.

[0033] The above inlet portion may be formed at the lower end of the heat exchanger to facilitate connection of a steam connection pipe, and the above discharge portion may be formed at the lower end of the heat exchanger to facilitate connection of a condensate pipe.

[0034] The above heat exchanger includes a guide projection that guides water vapor introduced through the inlet to the top of the heat exchanger, so that the water vapor can easily fall while condensing.

[0035] The above heat exchanger includes a cover provided at the bottom of the first and second heat exchange sections to collect condensate, and the discharge section is formed on the cover to facilitate discharge of the condensate.

[0036] The heat exchanger further includes a condensate pipe through which condensed water flows, and the condensate pipe can be connected to the discharge side of the heat exchanger.

[0037] The above condensate pipe is connected to a drain tank, so that condensate can be easily stored in the drain tank.

[0038] In one aspect of the present invention, a dehumidifier may include a case forming a suction portion for sucking air in a circumferential direction; a dehumidifying module provided inside the case and having an outer circumferential surface with which air sucked from the suction portion comes into contact and an inner circumferential surface defining a through hole; a vacuum pump for compressing water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module at a high temperature; a heat exchanger disposed in the through hole for performing heat exchange between water vapor discharged from the vacuum pump and air passing through the dehumidifying module; and a water tank for storing water condensed in the heat exchanger.

[0039] In order for air passing through the dehumidifying module to flow into the heat exchanger, the heat exchanger may have a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the inner circumferential surface.

[0040] The above heat exchanger may include a first heat exchanger extending in a circular direction in correspondence with a part of the inner surface and a second heat exchanger extending in a circular direction in correspondence with another part of the inner surface.

[0041] The heat exchanger includes a first part forming at least a portion of the inner surface of the heat exchanger and a second part forming at least a portion of the outer surface of the heat exchanger, and the first and second parts can form a hole through which air passing through the dehumidification module passes.

[0042] The first part may include a first hole defining a portion of the hole, and the second part may include a second hole defining another portion of the hole.

[0043] The above holes can be formed to form a plurality of rows in the circumferential direction of the heat exchanger and a plurality of columns in the axial direction.

[0044] The above heat exchanger is configured by combining first and second parts, and one of the first and second parts may include a plate extending in a circular direction in a circumferential direction and a protrusion protruding from the plate and coupled to the other one of the first and second parts.

[0045] The first part includes a first plate and a first protrusion, the second part includes a second plate and a second protrusion, and the first and second plates and the first and second protrusions can define a flow path of steam introduced into the heat exchanger.

[0046] The above steam path includes a plurality of steam paths spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and the heat exchanger may have a hole formed between the plurality of steam paths through which air passes to exchange heat with steam in the steam paths.

[0047] The above heat exchanger includes a heat exchanger having a lower portion through which steam flows in and a cover that shields the lower portion of the heat exchanger, and the cover can form a discharge hole through which condensed water in the heat exchanger is discharged.

[0048] The above cover forms a through hole to which an inlet pipe for introducing steam into the heat exchanger is connected, and the inlet pipe can be connected to the heat exchange unit through the through hole.

[0049] The above heat exchanger may include a guide member that is provided inside the heat exchange unit and extends upward from the lower end of the heat exchange unit to guide water vapor to the upper end of the heat exchange unit.

[0050] It includes a condensate pipe connected to the discharge hole of the above cover and guiding condensate discharged from the discharge hole downward, and the water tank can be connected to the condensate pipe.

[0051] The above dehumidifying module may include a connection port for discharging water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module, and may further include a connection pipe coupled to the connection port to guide the separated water vapor to the vacuum pump.

[0052] The above dehumidifying module may include a dehumidifying member including a polymer membrane fiber to selectively separate water vapor in the air, a fixing member for fixing the dehumidifying member by a potting method, and a cap for accommodating the fixing member.

[0053] In another aspect of the present invention, a dehumidifier may include a case forming an intake portion for intake of air in a circumferential direction; a dehumidifying module provided inside the case and having a hollow cylindrical shape including an outer circumferential surface and an inner circumferential surface; a heat exchanger inserted into the inner circumferential surface of the dehumidifying module and performing heat exchange between water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module and air passing through the dehumidifying module; and a water tank storing water condensed in the heat exchanger.

[0054] A vacuum pump connected to the dehumidifying module and compressing the separated water vapor; and a connecting pipe connected to the vacuum pump and guiding the water vapor to the heat exchanger may be further included.

[0055] The heat exchanger includes a first part forming a first hole and a second part forming a second hole and coupled to the first part, and the first and second holes can form holes through which air passing through the dehumidification module is sucked.

[0056] The first and second parts include first and second protrusions defining a path for the steam, and the path for the steam can be arranged adjacent to the hole so that the steam can exchange heat with the air.

[0057] The first and second parts are combined to form a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger, respectively, of the heat exchanger, and the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger can be arranged in a circumferential direction along the inner surface of the dehumidification module.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, constant temperature dehumidification can be achieved without increasing the temperature of an indoor space by selectively separating moisture in the air through a dehumidification module including a membrane without driving a refrigeration cycle.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, dehumidification can be performed by passing through a dehumidification module without requiring time for stabilization of the refrigeration cycle, so that the dehumidification time can be shortened.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cylindrical suction portion can be formed to increase the amount of air sucked into the dehumidifier.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing a dehumidifying module having a cylindrical structure, the contact area of ​​air flow to the dehumidifying module can be increased, and the size of the dehumidifying module can be reduced compared to a dehumidifying module of a different shape having the same contact area.

[0062] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifier that can move water vapor in air passing through a dehumidifying module to the inside of a membrane by generating a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the membrane using a vacuum pump.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the present invention, water vapor separated from a dehumidifying module is introduced into a heat exchanger via a vacuum pump and exchanges heat with indoor air in the heat exchanger, thereby facilitating the removal of condensed moisture.

[0064] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by arranging the heat exchanger on the inner surface of the dehumidifying module, air passing through the dehumidifying member can be introduced into the heat exchanger to effectively condense water vapor.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by configuring a heat exchanger including a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger arranged along the inner surface of a dehumidifying module, additional space for installation of the heat exchanger may not be required.

[0066] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchange part is formed by combining a first part and a second part, and the heat exchange part includes a plurality of protrusions to increase the contact area between an air passage and a steam passage.

[0067] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by forming a steam path from the top to the bottom of the heat exchanger, discharge of condensed moisture can be easily achieved.

[0068] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a drain tank for storing condensed water from a heat exchanger is arranged at the lower side of the heat exchanger, thereby facilitating the flow of condensed water in the direction of gravity.

[0069] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of Figure 1.

[0072] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a first housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the connection configuration of a connection port of a dehumidification module and a vacuum pump according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 7 is a bottom perspective view showing the configuration of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of Figure 6.

[0077] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the configuration of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 9.

[0079] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of Figure 9.

[0080] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing the configuration of a second part of a heat exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing the connection between a heat exchanger and a vacuum pump according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger and its peripheral configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing a part of the configuration of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Fig. 16 is a drawing showing the configuration of a heat exchanger and a steam inlet pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Fig. 17 is a drawing showing a cover of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing the configuration of a condensate pipe and a water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 19-19 of Fig. 18.

[0088] Figure 20 is a drawing showing the appearance of air flow and moisture flow in a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0090] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" between each component.

[0091] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a dehumidifier (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first part (100) forming an upper portion of the dehumidifier.

[0093] The first part (100) may include a first housing (110) forming a suction portion (112). The first housing (110) may be referred to as a “case.”

[0094] The above first housing (110) may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0095] The above suction portion (112) may include a plurality of suction holes formed in a circumferential direction along the outer surface of the first housing (110).

[0096] The above plurality of suction holes may be arranged in a circumferential direction to form a plurality of rows. The above plurality of suction holes may be arranged in a vertical direction to form a plurality of columns.

[0097] Through the above-mentioned plurality of suction holes, air outside the dehumidifier can flow in a radial direction and be sucked into the interior of the first housing (110).

[0098] The first part (100) may further include a discharge device (190) for discharging dehumidified air. The discharge device (190) may be provided at the upper end of the first housing (110).

[0099] For example, at least a portion of the discharge device (190) can be inserted into the interior of the first housing (110) through the open upper portion of the first housing (110).

[0100] Another part of the discharge device (190) may be located outside the first housing (110). Another part of the discharge device (190) may be exposed to the outside of the dehumidifier (10).

[0101] The above discharge device (190) may include a discharge body (191). For example, the discharge body (191) may have a thin cylindrical shape with an outer circumferential surface. The inner circumferential surface of the first housing (110) may be fitted onto the outer circumferential surface of the discharge body (191).

[0102] The above discharge device (190) may include a discharge portion (192) formed in a circumferential direction to discharge air. The discharge portion (192) is formed along the inner circumference of the discharge body (191) and may include a discharge grill.

[0103] The above first part (100) may include a display portion (195) located at the center of the discharge portion (192).

[0104] The above discharge device (190) may include a mounting portion (193) on which the display portion (195) is mounted. The discharge portion (192) may be formed along the perimeter of the mounting portion (193).

[0105] The above display unit (195) can display information regarding the operation of the dehumidifier (10). For example, the display unit (195) may have a circular shape. However, the shape of the display unit (195) is not limited thereto.

[0106] A display PCB (196) may be mounted on the lower portion of the display portion (195). For example, the display PCB (196) may be placed on the lower portion of the mounting portion (193). However, the position of the display PCB (196) may not be limited thereto.

[0107] The above discharge portion (192) and display portion (195) can form the upper exterior of the dehumidifier (10).

[0108] The above first part (100) may further include a blower that generates air flow and guides the flow from the intake part (112) to the discharge part (192).

[0109] The above blower may be placed on the lower side of the discharge device (190).

[0110] The above blower may include a fan (160) that generates air flow. The fan (160) may be placed on the outlet side of the dehumidification module (120). For example, the fan (160) may include a centrifugal fan that draws in air in the axial direction and discharges the air radially upward.

[0111] The first fan (160) may include a hub (161) to which a rotation shaft (165a) of a fan motor (165) is coupled, a shroud (162) disposed spaced apart from the hub (161), and a plurality of blades (163) disposed between the hub (161) and the shroud (162). The fan motor (165) may be coupled to the upper side of the fan (160).

[0112] The above blower may further include an air guide device (170) coupled to the upper side of the fan (160) to guide the flow of air passing through the fan (160).

[0113] The above air guide device (170) may include an outer wall (171) having a cylindrical shape and an inner wall (172) located on the inner side of the outer wall (171) and having a cylindrical shape.

[0114] The outer wall (171) is arranged to surround the inner wall (172). An air passage (172a) through which air flows can be formed between the inner surface of the outer wall (171) and the outer surface of the inner wall (172).

[0115] The above air guide device (170) may further include a guide rib (175) arranged in the air path (172a). The guide rib (175) extends from the outer circumferential surface of the inner wall (172) to the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall (171). A plurality of the guide ribs (175) may be arranged spaced apart from each other. The plurality of guide ribs (175) perform a function of guiding air introduced into the air path (172a) through the first fan (160) upward.

[0116] The above air guide device (170) may further include a motor receiving portion (173) that extends downward from the inner wall (172) and receives the fan motor (165). The motor receiving portion (173) may have a bowl shape with a diameter that becomes smaller as it goes downward.

[0117] The shape of the above motor receiving portion (173) corresponds to the shape of the hub (161), and the above motor receiving portion (173) can be inserted into the inside of the hub (161).

[0118] The first fan motor (165) of the first fan motor may be supported on the upper side of the motor receiving portion (173). In addition, the rotation shaft (165a) of the first fan motor (165) may extend downward from the first fan motor (165) and may be coupled to the hub (161) by penetrating the bottom surface of the motor receiving portion (173).

[0119] The first part (100) may further include a dehumidifying unit for removing moisture from the air. The dehumidifying unit may include a dehumidifying module (120). The dehumidifying module (120) may be positioned below the blower unit and may be located in the internal space of the lower side of the first housing (110).

[0120] The above dehumidifying module (120) may have a cylindrical shape.

[0121] The above dehumidifying module (120) may have a cylindrical shape with an empty interior.

[0122] The above dehumidifying module (120) may include a through hole (125) that penetrates in the vertical direction (axial direction) from the lower part to the upper part of the dehumidifying module (120).

[0123] The above dehumidifying module (120) may have an outer circumferential surface located on the inner surface of the suction portion (112). The above dehumidifying module (120) includes an outer circumferential surface in the circumferential direction, and the outer circumferential surface may constitute a contact surface with which air sucked from the suction portion (112) comes into contact.

[0124] By the above through hole (125), the dehumidifying module (120) can have an inner circumference defined. The inner circumference can form the circumference of the through hole (125).

[0125] Air introduced into the dehumidifying module (120) through the outer surface of the dehumidifying module (120), i.e., the contact surface, can flow in the inner radial direction of the dehumidifying module (120). In this process, the air can pass through the dehumidifying member (121).

[0126] When the vacuum pump (230) is driven, a pressure difference occurs between the outside and inside of the dehumidifying member (121), and a negative pressure lower than the external pressure can be formed inside the dehumidifying member (121).

[0127] As air passes through the dehumidifying member (121), moisture contained in the air may be adsorbed by contacting the surface of the dehumidifying member (121). Then, the adsorbed moisture may be selectively separated from the air by diffusing and then being desorbed from the surface.

[0128] The separated moisture flows downward inside the dehumidifying member (121) and can flow toward the second part (200) through the connection ports (131 to 134, see FIG. 5) provided at the lower end of the dehumidifying module (120).

[0129] The above dehumidifier (10) may include a second part (200) forming the lower part of the dehumidifier. The second part (200) may be understood as a "machine room" in which a vacuum pump, a water tank, etc. are placed for the operation of the dehumidifier.

[0130] The second part (200) may include a second housing (210). A number of components may be installed inside the second housing (210).

[0131] The second housing (210) may include a bottom portion (211). The bottom portion (211) may be placed on the ground, for example.

[0132] The second housing (210) may include an upper surface (212). The upper surface (212) may be arranged to face the lower surface (211).

[0133] The lower part of the first housing (110) may be supported by the upper part (212). The lower part of the first housing (110) and the upper part (212) may be arranged to face each other.

[0134] The second housing (210) may include a module support member (215) that supports the first housing (110). The module support member (215) may protrude upward from the upper surface (212) and be positioned to fit into the inner circumferential surface of the first housing (110).

[0135] The second housing (210) may include a port communication hole (216) through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying module (120) flows. The port communication hole (216) may be formed on the upper surface (212).

[0136] The above port communication hole (216) can be connected to the above connection port (131 to 134).

[0137] The above port communication holes (216) may be formed in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of connection ports (131 to 134). For example, the multiple port communication holes (216) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged to form a central angle of 90 degrees. However, although the drawing shows four port communication holes being formed, three or fewer or five or more port communication holes may be formed.

[0138] The second part (200) is connected to the port communication hole (216) and may further include a first connecting pipe (235) that guides the water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (120) to the vacuum pump (230). The water vapor may be understood as air containing moisture.

[0139] The above vacuum pump (230) can be installed inside the second housing (210). The vacuum pump (230) is placed on the base panel (216), and the base panel (216) can be placed on the bottom surface (211) of the second housing (210).

[0140] The above vacuum pump (230) can be understood as a component that sucks in moisture (water vapor) separated from the dehumidification module (120), compresses it at high pressure, and discharges the compressed air. The above vacuum pump (230) may also be called a "vacuum compression pump."

[0141] The vacuum pump (230) may include a pump inlet (232) connected to the first connecting pipe (235). For example, the pump inlet (232, see FIG. 5) may be formed at one end of the vacuum pump (230).

[0142] The vacuum pump (230) may further include a pump discharge portion (234) for discharging compressed air. For example, the pump discharge portion (234) may be formed at the other end of the vacuum pump (230).

[0143] A second connecting pipe (236) may be connected to the pump discharge portion (234). The second connecting pipe (236) extends from the discharge side of the vacuum pump (230) to the heat exchanger (300), and high-temperature steam discharged from the vacuum pump (230) may be introduced into the heat exchanger (300) through the second connecting pipe (236).

[0144] The water vapor passing through the vacuum pump (230) may be compressed by the vacuum pump (230) and may have a high temperature, for example, a temperature of about 45 to 50°C. The vacuum pump (230) may also be called a “vacuum compression pump.”

[0145] The water vapor passing through the vacuum pump (230) can form a flow rate less than about 5% of the total suction flow rate of the system, i.e., the flow rate sucked through the suction part (112). Therefore, the water vapor can be sufficiently converted into condensate through heat exchange with the air sucked through the suction part (112).

[0146] The second housing (210) may further include a protrusion (217) protruding upward from the upper surface (212). The protrusion (217) has a ring shape and may be located in the inner space of the module support portion (215).

[0147] The above jaw (217) can support the cover (360) of the heat exchanger (300). It can support the bottom surface of the cover (360).

[0148] An opening (217a) may be formed on the inside of the jaw (217). The opening (217a) is formed by penetrating at least a portion of the upper surface (212), and water condensed in the heat exchanger (300) may flow into the water tank (250) through the opening (217a).

[0149] The second housing (210) may include a side surface (213) connecting the bottom surface (211) and the top surface (212). The side surface (213) may form a side appearance of the second housing (210).

[0150] In the above side portion (213), a slit (213a) may be formed as a communication portion communicating with the outside of the second part (200).

[0151] The second part (200) may further include a front portion (214) forming an opening (214a). A water tank (250) may be detachably mounted in the opening (214a). The water tank (250) may be inserted into the opening (214a) and may be pulled backward. A user may pull the water tank (250) forward to detach it.

[0152] The above dehumidifier (10) may further include a heat exchanger (300) for condensing water vapor discharged from the vacuum pump (230).

[0153] The above heat exchanger (300) may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0154] The above heat exchanger (300) can be placed on the inner surface of the dehumidification module (120).

[0155] The above heat exchanger (300) can be inserted into the through hole (125) of the dehumidification module (120).

[0156] The heat exchanger (300) has an outer surface corresponding to the inner surface of the dehumidification module (120), and the outer surface of the heat exchanger (300) can face the inner surface of the dehumidification module (120).

[0157] The above heat exchanger (300) may include a first heat exchanger (310) and a second heat exchanger (320). The first heat exchanger (310) and the second heat exchanger (320) may be coupled in the radial direction to form a cylindrical shape of the heat exchanger (300).

[0158] For example, the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320) may each have a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0159] The first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320) above can be configured by combining a first part (311) and a second part (312), respectively. By combining the first and second parts (311, 312), an air flow path (first flow path) and a steam flow path (second flow path) that exchange heat with each other can be formed in the heat exchanger (300).

[0160] The first part (311) may form the inner surface of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320), and the second part (312) may form the outer surface of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320).

[0161] The above second part (312) can be coupled to the outside of the above first part (311).

[0162] The above first and second parts (311, 312) may each have a rounded shape in the circumferential direction.

[0163] The above heat exchanger (300) may further include a shield (350) provided at the upper end of the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320). The shield (350) may cover the open upper end of the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320).

[0164] The shielding member (350) is configured to have a ring shape and can cover the upper portions of the first and second parts (311, 312). The shielding member (350) can form a through hole (351) to communicate with the inner space of the heat exchanger (300).

[0165] The air that has been heat-exchanged in the above heat exchanger (300) can be discharged to the outside of the heat exchanger (300) through the through hole (351) in the inner space of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320).

[0166] The above heat exchanger (300) may further include a cover (360) provided at the lower end of the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320). The cover (360) may cover the open lower end of the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320).

[0167] By combining the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320) and the shielding part (350) and the cover (360), the space between the first part (310) and the second part (320) can form a steam path. The upper end of the steam path can be defined by the shielding part (350), and the lower end of the steam path can be defined by the cover (360).

[0168] The above cover (360) includes a collecting portion for collecting condensate condensed in the heat exchanger (300), and can form a discharge hole (364) for discharging condensate from the collecting portion.

[0169] The above heat exchanger (300) may include a hole (330) through which air passes. The hole (330) may be formed to penetrate from the outer peripheral surface to the inner peripheral surface of the heat exchanger (300).

[0170] The above hole (330) can be formed to form a plurality of rows in the circumferential direction of the heat exchanger (330) and a plurality of columns in the vertical direction.

[0171] The above hole (330) can be defined by the first hole (330a, see FIG. 11) of the first part (311) and the second hole (330b, see FIG. 11) of the second part (312).

[0172] Air from which moisture has been separated while passing through the dehumidifying module (120) passes through the heat exchanger (300) through the hole (330). The air exchanges heat with water vapor introduced into the heat exchanger (300), and the relatively low-temperature air can condense high-temperature water vapor.

[0173] The above dehumidifier (10) is connected to the discharge side of the vacuum pump (230) and may further include an inlet port (237a, 237b) that introduces high-temperature steam passing through the vacuum pump (230) into the heat exchanger (300).

[0174] The above inlet port (237a, 237b) can be connected to the bottom of the heat exchanger (300).

[0175] The above inlet ports (237a, 237b) may include a first inlet port (237a) connected to one side of the lower portion of the heat exchanger (300) and a second inlet port (237b) connected to the other side of the lower portion of the heat exchanger (300).

[0176] Through the first and second inlet ports (237a, 237b), steam can easily flow into both sides of the heat exchanger (300).

[0177] The dehumidifier (10) is connected to the cover (360) of the heat exchanger (300) and may further include a condensate pipe (238) that transfers condensed water from the heat exchanger (300) to a water tank (250). The condensate pipe (238) may extend downward from the cover (360) toward the water tank (250) to facilitate the dropping of condensate.

[0178] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a first housing according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a connection configuration of a connection port of a dehumidification module and a vacuum pump according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0179] First, referring to FIG. 4, the first housing (110) according to the embodiment of the present invention may have a cylindrical shape with an empty interior.

[0180] The first housing (110) may include a first housing part (110a) in which the dehumidifying unit is accommodated. The first housing part (110a) may extend upward to have a first height set from the lower end of the first housing (110).

[0181] The first housing (110) may include a second housing part (110b) that accommodates the blower (110b). The second housing part (110b) may extend downward from the upper end of the first housing (110) to have a second height set.

[0182] The above second housing part (110b) can be formed on the upper side of the above first housing part (110a).

[0183] The first housing (110) may include a suction unit (112) for sucking air. The suction unit (112) includes a plurality of suction holes, and the plurality of suction holes may be formed to form a plurality of rows in a circumferential direction and a plurality of columns in a vertical direction.

[0184] The above suction part (112) may include a first suction part (112a) formed at the lower portion of the first housing part (110a) and a second suction part (112b) formed at the upper portion of the second housing part (110a). The second suction part (112b) may be arranged above the first suction part (112a).

[0185] The first suction part (112a) and the second suction part (112b) may each include a plurality of suction holes.

[0186] The suction area of ​​the first suction unit (112a) may be larger than the suction area of ​​the second suction unit (112b). Since the blower is positioned above the dehumidifying unit, the distance from the fan (160) to the first suction unit (112a) may be larger than the distance from the fan (160) to the second suction unit (112b).

[0187] Accordingly, a condition may be created in which the suction amount through the first suction part (112a) becomes smaller than the suction amount through the second suction part (112b). To compensate for this, the suction area of ​​the first suction part (112a) may be created to be larger than the suction area of ​​the second suction part (112b).

[0188] For example, in order to form the suction area in the first suction part (112a) larger than the suction area in the second suction part (112b), the number of suction holes provided in the first suction part (112a) may be formed to be greater than the number of suction holes provided in the second suction part (112b).

[0189] As another example, in order to form the suction area in the first suction part (112a) larger than the suction area in the second suction part (112b), the area of ​​the suction hole provided in the first suction part (112a) can be formed larger than the area of ​​the suction hole provided in the second suction part (112b).

[0190] Of course, the number and area of ​​suction holes provided in the first suction part (112a) may be formed to be larger than the number and area of ​​suction holes provided in the second suction part (112b).

[0191] In a state where the first housing (110) accommodates the dehumidifying module (120), the lower portion of the dehumidifying module (120) may be positioned lower than the lower portion of the first housing (110). The lower portion of the dehumidifying module (120) may be supported or mounted on the upper surface (212) of the second housing (210).

[0192] The lower part of the above dehumidification module (120) may include a cap (130). The cap (130) may be provided with connection ports (131 to 134) for discharging moisture (water vapor) separated from the dehumidification module (120). A plurality of connection ports (131 to 134) may be provided.

[0193] The above-mentioned plurality of connection ports (131 to 134) may include a first connection port (131), a second connection port (132), a third connection port (133), and a fourth connection port (134). The number of the connection ports (131 to 134) may correspond to the number of modules constituting the dehumidification module (120).

[0194] For example, the above-described multiple connection ports can be understood to be located in the first quadrant, the second quadrant, the third quadrant, and the fourth quadrant, respectively, when looking at the bottom surface (130a) of the cap (130).

[0195] In this embodiment, as an example, it is described that a dehumidifying module (120) is configured by assembling four modules, and four connection ports (131 to 134) are provided as described above. However, the number of modules and the number of connection ports (131 to 134) may not be limited to four.

[0196] The above-mentioned plurality of connection ports (131 to 134) may be configured to protrude downward from the bottom surface (130a) of the cap (130).

[0197] The bottom surface (130a) of the cap (130) may have a ring shape with a central portion penetrating upward and downward. The cap (130) may further include a penetrating opening (130b) penetrating the central portion of the bottom surface (130a).

[0198] The above through opening (130b) can be fluidly connected to the through hole (125) of the dehumidifying module (120).

[0199] The above dehumidifier may further include a first connection pipe (235) that is connected to the plurality of connection ports (131 to 134) and guides water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (120) to a vacuum pump (130).

[0200] The first connecting pipe (235) may include a first pipe (235a) connected to the first connecting port (131). The first pipe (235a) may extend from the first connecting port (131) and have a shape that is bent in a predetermined direction.

[0201] The first connecting pipe (235) may include a second pipe (235b) connected to the second connecting port (131). The second pipe (235b) may extend from the second connecting port (132) and have a shape that is bent in a predetermined direction.

[0202] The first pipe (235a) and the second pipe (235b) may be extended by bending in a direction toward each other. The dehumidifier may further include a first coupler (237a) connecting the first pipe (235a) and the second pipe (235b). The first pipe (235a) may be connected to a first port of the first coupler (237a), and the second pipe (235b) may be connected to a second port of the first coupler (237a).

[0203] The first connecting pipe (235) may include a third pipe (235c) connected to a third connecting port (133). The third pipe (235c) may extend from the third connecting port (133) and have a shape that is bent in a predetermined direction.

[0204] The first connecting pipe (235) may include a fourth pipe (235d) connected to a fourth connecting port (134). The fourth pipe (235d) may extend from the fourth connecting port (134) and have a shape that is bent in a predetermined direction.

[0205] The third pipe (235c) and the fourth pipe (235d) may be extended by bending in a direction toward each other. The dehumidifier may further include a second coupler (237b) connecting the third pipe (235c) and the fourth pipe (235d). The third pipe (235c) may be connected to the first port of the second coupler (237b), and the fourth pipe (235d) may be connected to the second port of the second coupler (237b).

[0206] The first coupler (237a) may include a third port. A fifth pipe (235e) may be connected to the third port of the first coupler (237a). Steam flowing through the first pipe (235a) and the second pipe (235b) may flow to the fifth pipe (235e) through the third port of the first coupler (237a).

[0207] The second coupler (237b) may include a third port. A sixth pipe (235f) may be connected to the third port of the second coupler (237b). Steam flowing through the third pipe (235c) and the fourth pipe (235d) may flow to the sixth pipe (235f) through the third port of the second coupler (237b).

[0208] The dehumidifier may further include a third coupler (237c) connecting the fifth pipe (235e) and the sixth pipe (235f). The fifth pipe (235e) may be connected to the first port of the third coupler (237b), and the sixth pipe (235f) may be connected to the second port of the third coupler (237b).

[0209] The third coupler (237c) may include a third port. A seventh pipe (235g) may be connected to the third port of the third coupler (237c). Steam flowing through the fifth pipe (235e) and the sixth pipe (235f) may flow to the seventh pipe (235g) through the third port of the third coupler (237c).

[0210] The seventh pipe (235g) can extend from the third coupler (237c) to the vacuum pump (230). The seventh pipe (235g) can be connected to the pump inlet (232) of the vacuum pump (230). The water vapor flowing through the seventh pipe (235g) can be sucked into the vacuum pump (230) through the pump inlet (232).

[0211] The above vacuum pump (230) includes a pump discharge portion (234), and air compressed at high pressure in the vacuum pump (230) can be discharged through the pump discharge portion (234).

[0212] A second connecting pipe (236) is connected to the pump discharge portion (234), and the compressed air can be introduced into the heat exchanger (300) through the second connecting pipe (236).

[0213] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a dehumidification module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view showing the configuration of a dehumidification module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6.

[0214] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a dehumidification module (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be configured by assembling a plurality of modules.

[0215] The above multiple modules may include a first module (120a), a second module (120b), a third module (120c), and a fourth module (120d).

[0216] The first to fourth modules (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) can be arranged in a circumferential direction and cooked. Any one of the first to fourth modules (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) can be inserted between two other adjacent modules.

[0217] A boundary line (120e) may be formed between one of the above modules and the other two adjacent modules, which are arranged in contact with or adjacent to each other. Since four modules are provided, the dehumidifying module (120) may include four boundary lines (120e). However, the number of modules may not be limited thereto.

[0218] The above-described first to fourth modules (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) may have substantially the same configuration. The following description will be based on one module, and it can be understood that the dehumidification module of the present embodiment is provided by combining multiple modules. The above-described single module is referred to as a "module part."

[0219] The above module part may include a dehumidifying member (121) that forms an air contact surface and selectively separates moisture in the air.

[0220] The above dehumidifying member (121) may include a membrane.

[0221] In detail, the dehumidifying member (121) may include a polymer membrane fiber (122) having a hollow fiber structure with excellent selectivity for moisture. The polymer membrane fiber (122) may be cut to a predetermined length and used. The polymer membrane fiber (122) may be referred to as a "hollow fiber membrane."

[0222] The above polymer film fiber (122) can be configured to have a set length (L1) within the dehumidification module (120).

[0223] The above polymer film fiber (122) can be configured to have a diameter (D1) of, for example, about 400 to 420 μm.

[0224] The above polymer film fibers (122) may be provided in multiple strands. The multiple strands of polymer film fibers (122) may be densely arranged and arranged in the circumferential and radial directions.

[0225] The above module part may include a fixing part (123) that supports both sides of the dehumidifying member (121) and a cap (130, 140) that fills the fixing part (123).

[0226] The above-mentioned fixing member (123) may be configured to be filled and hardened in a liquid form inside the cap (130, 140) to fix the position of the dehumidifying member (121). For example, the above-mentioned fixing member (123) may be configured of a urethane or epoxy material.

[0227] The above caps (130, 140) may include a first cap (130) provided at the lower end of the module part and a second cap (140) provided at the upper end of the module part.

[0228] The internal space of the first and second caps (130, 140) can form a space filled with the fixing part (123). The first and second caps (130, 140) can be called "potting caps."

[0229] The above module part may include a support (148) that supports both sides of the dehumidifying member (121). The dehumidifying member (121) may be placed in the space formed by the support (148) and the first cap (130) and the second cap (140).

[0230] The first cap (130) may include a bottom portion (130a) supported on the upper portion (212) of the second housing (210). A through opening (130b) communicating with the through hole (125) of the dehumidifying module (120) may be formed in the center of the bottom portion (130a).

[0231] The above-mentioned bottom portion (130a) may include a plurality of connection ports (131, 132, 133, 134) arranged at positions corresponding to the lower ends of the first to fourth modules (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d). Through the plurality of connection ports (131, 132, 133, 134), water vapor separated from the first to fourth modules (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) may be discharged.

[0232] The above discharged water vapor can be introduced into the vacuum pump (230) through the first connecting pipe (235). The first connecting pipe (235) can be connected to the plurality of connecting ports (131, 132, 133, 134).

[0233] Referring to FIG. 8, at least a portion of the dehumidifying member (121) may be placed on the inside of the second cap (140).

[0234] The second cap (140) may include a first part (141) forming an outer circumferential surface and a second part (142) forming an inner circumferential surface. The first part (141) and the second part (142) may extend in a rounded shape in the circumferential direction.

[0235] For example, the first part (141) and the second part (142) may have the shape of an arc extending in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length of the first part (141) may be formed to be longer than the circumferential length of the second part (142).

[0236] At least a portion of the above dehumidifying member (121) can be placed in the space between the first part (141) and the second part (142).

[0237] In the space between the first part (141) and the second part (142), a potting space can be formed in which a fixing part (123) is provided as a potting liquid.

[0238] The above module part may further include a separation guide (146) provided in areas corresponding to the lower and upper parts of the dehumidifying member (121) to separate the installation space of the dehumidifying member (121) into a first space and a second space.

[0239] The above separation guide (146) can form a circle around the center of the dehumidifying module so that the flow speed of air flowing into the dehumidifying module (120) can be formed uniformly.

[0240] The above separation guide (146) can be formed to have an arc shape between the first part (141) and the second part (142).

[0241] Among the plurality of strands (122) of the polymer film fibers (122) constituting the above dehumidifying member (121), a certain amount of strands may be arranged in a first space between the first part (141) and the separation guide (146), and another certain amount of strands may be arranged in a second space between the second part (142) and the separation guide (146).

[0242] The amount or density of the polymer film fibers (122) provided in the first space may be formed to be greater than the amount or density of the polymer film fibers (122) provided in the second space. Since the air flows radially inward from the outer circumferential surface of the dehumidifying module (120), it first passes through the dehumidifying member (121) arranged in the first space and then passes through the dehumidifying member (121) arranged in the second space.

[0243] Accordingly, during the dehumidification process, the moisture content (water vapor partial pressure) of the air passing through the first space may be greater than the moisture content of the air passing through the second space. To reflect this, the amount of dehumidifying elements (121) arranged in the first space may be configured to be greater than the amount of dehumidifying elements (121) arranged in the second space.

[0244] In detail, a plurality of first polymer film fibers (122a) having a first amount (or a first density) may be arranged in the first space, and a plurality of second polymer film fibers (122b) having a second amount (or a second density) may be arranged in the second space. The first amount (or the first density) may be greater than the second amount (or the second density).

[0245] The upper and lower ends of the first polymer film fiber (122a) may be fixed by a fixing member (123). The upper and lower ends of the second polymer film fiber (122b) may be fixed by a fixing member (123). The fixing member (123) may be provided as a potting solution and may be provided after being hardened.

[0246] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the configuration of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9, FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 9, and FIG. 12 is a drawing showing the configuration of a second part of a heat exchange unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0247] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12, a heat exchanger (300) according to an embodiment of the present invention has a hollow cylindrical shape and can form a plurality of holes (330) through which air can pass.

[0248] The above heat exchanger (300) may include first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320) that are coupled in a radial direction, a shield part (350) provided at the upper end of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320), and a cover (360) provided at the lower end of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320).

[0249] The first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320) may be configured by combining the first part (311) and the second part (312) so that a steam path is formed inside them.

[0250] The first part (311) may include a first plate (311a) extending in a circular manner in the circumferential direction. The first plate (311a) may form the inner surface of each of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320).

[0251] The first part (311) may include a first hole (330a) formed through the first plate (311a). The first hole (330a) may constitute at least a portion of the hole (330).

[0252] The second part (312) may include a second plate (312a) extending in a circular manner in the circumferential direction. The second plate (312a) may form the outer surface of each of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320).

[0253] The second part (312) may include a second hole (330b) formed penetrating the second plate (312a). The second hole (330b) may constitute at least a portion of the hole (330).

[0254] The first part (311) may include a first protrusion (313) protruding from the first plate (311a) in a direction toward the second plate (312a). A plurality of the first protrusions (313) may be provided along the vertical and circumferential directions of the first plate (311a).

[0255] The second part (312) may include a second protrusion (314) protruding from the second plate (312a) in a direction toward the first plate (311a). A plurality of the second protrusions (314) may be provided along the vertical and circumferential directions of the second plate (312a).

[0256] Among the plurality of first protrusions (313), the two most adjacent first protrusions (313) may be provided on both sides of the first hole (330a). Among the plurality of second protrusions (314), the two most adjacent second protrusions (314) may be provided on both sides of the second hole (330b).

[0257] When the first part (311) and the second part (312) are combined, the first protrusion (313) and the second protrusion (314) can be fitted to each other. For example, two first protrusions (313) can be inserted between two second protrusions (314). As another example, two second protrusions (314) can be inserted between two first protrusions (313).

[0258] The first plate (311a) and a plurality of first protrusions (313), and the second plate (312a) and a plurality of second protrusions (314) can form a steam path (336) through which steam introduced into the heat exchanger (300) flows.

[0259] The above steam paths (336) are formed in a plurality in the circumferential direction, and the plurality of steam paths (336) are spaced apart from each other, and the holes (330) can be formed between the plurality of steam paths (336).

[0260] In that the above-mentioned plurality of first protrusions (313) and the above-mentioned plurality of second protrusions (314) are combined with each other to form the hole (330), the above-mentioned first and second protrusions (313, 314) can form a hole-forming member (335).

[0261] The above hole (330) allows air passing through the dehumidification module (120) to pass through. Specifically, the hole (330) is arranged so as to face the inner surface of the dehumidification module (120), so that when the air flows radially inwardly of the dehumidification module (120), moisture is separated and then passes radially through the heat exchanger (300) through the hole (330).

[0262] That is, the hole (330) can form an air path that exchanges heat with the steam path (336).

[0263] The above-described plurality of holes (330) and the above-described plurality of steam passages (336) can be arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. With this configuration, the heat exchange area between the air passages and the steam passages (336) can be increased, thereby improving heat exchange performance.

[0264] At least one of the first part (311) and the second part (312) may include a guide member that guides the flow of steam introduced into the heat exchanger (300).

[0265] In detail, referring to FIG. 12, the second part (312) may include a guide member (312b, 312c) protruding from the second plate (312a) in a direction toward the first plate (311a).

[0266] The above guide member (312b, 312c) may include a first guide member (312b) provided on a lateral edge side of the second part (312) and extending in an up-down direction. For example, the first guide member (312b) may extend upward from the lower end of the second part (312) to a position adjacent to the upper end.

[0267] Water vapor introduced from the lower part of the heat exchanger (300) can flow upward through the space between the edge of the second part (312) and the first guide member (312b).

[0268] The above guide member (312b, 312c) may include a second guide member (312c) provided on the upper side of the second part (312) and extending in the circumferential direction. For example, the second guide member (312c) may extend in the circumferential direction from one end of the second part (312) to the other end.

[0269] The water vapor flowing upward along the first guide member (312b) can flow in the circumferential direction along the second guide member (312c).

[0270] Between the end of the first guide member (312b) and the end of the second guide member (312c), a communication portion (312d) may be formed to guide steam to the steam path (336). Steam flowing upward along the first guide member (312b) may flow into the steam path (336) through the communication portion (312d).

[0271] As the steam flows upward along the first guide member (312b) and flows into the steam path (336), the steam can condense during the heat exchange process with the air and easily fall downward.

[0272] In Fig. 12, the guide member (312b, 312c) is described as a configuration of the second part (312), but unlike this, the guide member may be provided in the first part (311) or may be provided in both the first and second parts (311, 312).

[0273] In addition, the above guide members (312b, 312c) can be provided to both the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320), and the water vapor introduced into the heat exchanger (300) can flow upward through the space between the first guide member (312b) of the first heat exchange unit (310) and the first guide member (312b) of the second heat exchange unit (320).

[0274] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a connection between a heat exchanger and a vacuum pump according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger and its peripheral configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a part of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a configuration of a heat exchanger and a steam inlet pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a cover of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0275] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, high-temperature steam discharged from a vacuum pump (230) can be introduced into a heat exchanger (300) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0276] The above vacuum pump (230) includes a pump discharge unit (234) that discharges high-temperature steam, and a second connecting pipe (236) that guides the steam to the heat exchanger (300) can be connected to the pump discharge unit (234).

[0277] The second connecting pipe (236) may include a first pipe (236a) connected to the pump discharge portion (234). The dehumidifier may further include a coupler (236b) connected to the first pipe (236a). The coupler (236b) may be configured to branch the water vapor flowing through the first pipe (236a) into two paths.

[0278] A second pipe (236c) may be connected to the first outlet port of the coupler (236b), and a third pipe (236d) may be connected to the second outlet port. Steam may flow by branching from the coupler (236b) to the second pipe (236c) and the third pipe (236d).

[0279] The dehumidifier may further include a first inflow coupler (237a) connected to the second pipe (236c). The first inflow coupler (237a) may introduce water vapor flowing through the second pipe (236c) into the interior of the heat exchanger (300). The first inflow coupler (237a) may be arranged at the lower end of one side of the heat exchanger (300).

[0280] The dehumidifier may further include a second inflow coupler (237b) connected to the third pipe (236d). The second inflow coupler (237b) may introduce water vapor flowing through the third pipe (236d) into the interior of the heat exchanger (300). The first inflow coupler (237a) may be arranged at the lower end of the other side of the heat exchanger (300).

[0281] The dehumidifier may further include a first inlet pipe (239a) connected to the first inlet coupler (237a) and coupled to the heat exchanger (300). The first inlet pipe (239a) may be arranged to penetrate the cover (360) of the heat exchanger (300). For example, the first inlet pipe (239a) may be coupled to the first through-hole (362a) of the cover (360).

[0282] The dehumidifier may further include a second inlet pipe (239b) connected to the second inlet coupler (237b) and coupled to the heat exchanger (300). The second inlet pipe (239b) may be arranged to penetrate the cover (360) of the heat exchanger (300). For example, the second inlet pipe (239b) may be coupled to the second through hole (362b) of the cover (360).

[0283] The above heat exchanger (300) may include a joining hole (315) through which the first inlet pipe (239a) and the second inlet pipe (239b) are joined.

[0284] The above-mentioned joining hole (315) may be formed in the first part (311). A part of the joining hole (315) may be formed in the first part (311) of the first heat exchange unit (310), and another part of the joining hole (315) may be formed in the first part (311) of the second heat exchange unit (320).

[0285] When the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320) are combined, the joining hole (315) can be defined. Accordingly, the joining hole (315) can be formed at the boundary (340) of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320).

[0286] The above-mentioned joining hole (315) can be formed at a position adjacent to the lower end of the first part (311).

[0287] The above-mentioned joining hole (315) is formed on both sides of the heat exchanger (300), and the joining hole to which the first inlet pipe (239a) is joined can be called a “first joining hole”, and the joining hole to which the second inlet pipe (239b) is joined can be called a “second joining hole”.

[0288] The first inlet pipe (239a) may include a first discharge portion (239a1) for discharging steam. Steam flowing through the first inlet pipe (239a) may be introduced into the internal space of the heat exchanger (300) through the first discharge portion (239a1).

[0289] The second inlet pipe (239b) may include a second discharge portion (239b1) for discharging steam. Steam flowing through the second inlet pipe (239b) may be introduced into the internal space of the heat exchanger (300) through the second discharge portion (239b1).

[0290] The first discharge portion (239a1) may be bent outward from the first inlet pipe (239a) to facilitate the introduction of steam into the heat exchanger (300). The second discharge portion (239b1) may be bent outward from the second inlet pipe (239b) to facilitate the introduction of steam into the heat exchanger (300). The first and second discharge portions (239a1, 239b1) may each be coupled to the coupling hole (315).

[0291] The water vapor introduced into the interior of the heat exchanger (300) through the first and second inlet pipes (239a, 239b) can flow upward along the first guide member (312b) provided in each of the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320).

[0292] The cover (360) may shield the open lower portions of the first and second heat exchange parts (310, 320). The cover (360) may include a water collecting portion (361) in which water condensed in the water vapor passage (336) is collected. Water flowing through the water vapor passage (336) may fall through the lower portions of the first and second parts (311, 312) and be collected in the water collecting portion (361).

[0293] The cover (360) is provided at the lower end of the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320) and may further include an inclined portion (362) extending downwardly. The inclined portion (362) may extend in a circumferential direction corresponding to the circular shape of the lower end of the first and second heat exchange units (310). For example, the inclined portion (362) may be configured to have a ring shape.

[0294] The condensate discharged from the first and second heat exchange units (310, 320) can be guided along the inclined portion (362) and fall into the water collection unit (361).

[0295] The cover (360) may further include a step wall (363) extending downwardly from the inclined portion (362). The step wall (363) may connect the inclined portion (362) and the water collecting portion (361). The water collecting portion (361) may be positioned lower than the inclined portion (362) by the height of the step wall (363).

[0296] The cover (360) may include a discharge hole (364) for discharging condensate from the water collecting portion (361). The discharge hole (364) may be formed by penetrating at least a portion of the cover (360) and may be formed in the central portion of the cover (360).

[0297] The above-mentioned water collecting portion (361) may include a guide surface extending downwardly toward the discharge hole (364). Therefore, the condensate of the above-mentioned water collecting portion (361) can easily flow to the discharge hole (364).

[0298] The cover (360) may include first and second through-holes (362a, 362b) to which the first and second inlet pipes (239a, 239b) are coupled. The first and second through-holes (362a, 362b) may be formed on both sides of the inclined portion (362). The inclined surface of the inclined portion (362) may facilitate the formation of the first and second through-holes (362a, 362b) to which the first and second inlet pipes (239a, 239b) are coupled.

[0299] A connecting bracket (238a) may be coupled to the lower side of the cover (360). The connecting bracket (238a) may be connected to the discharge hole (364) to guide the condensate discharged from the discharge hole (364) downward. The connecting bracket (238a) may be connected to a condensate pipe (238).

[0300] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing the configuration of a condensate pipe and a water tank according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 19-19 of Fig. 18.

[0301] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a condensate pipe (238) for guiding condensate discharged from the heat exchanger (300) to a water tank (250).

[0302] The above condensate pipe (238) may include a portion extending downward from the lower end of the heat exchanger (300) toward the water tank (250). In detail, a connection bracket (238a) is coupled to the cover (360) of the heat exchanger (300), and the condensate pipe (238) may be connected to the connection bracket (238a) and extend downward.

[0303] The above water tank (250) includes a water inlet (251) into which condensate flows in, and a water tank bracket (238b) to which the condensate pipe (238) is connected may be provided in the water inlet (251).

[0304] The above condensate pipe (238) extends from the connecting bracket (238a) to the water tank bracket (238b) so that the condensate generated in the heat exchanger (300) can be easily introduced into the water tank (250).

[0305] Figure 20 is a drawing showing the appearance of air flow and moisture flow in a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0306] Referring to Fig. 20, when the fan (160) is driven, air can be drawn into the interior of the dehumidifier (10) through the suction portion (112). Corresponding to the suction portion (112) formed in the circumferential direction, air can be sucked into the center of the interior of the dehumidifier in the circumferential direction.

[0307] Air passes through a dehumidifying module (120) located inside the suction section (112), and moisture (water vapor) in the air can be separated. At this time, moisture can permeate the hollow fiber membrane of the dehumidifying module (120) due to the partial pressure difference of the water vapor.

[0308] The air from which the moisture has been separated flows toward the through hole (125) of the dehumidifying module (120) and can be introduced into the heat exchanger (300) arranged in the through hole (125). The air flows from the outer peripheral surface of the heat exchanger (300) to the inner peripheral surface through the hole (330) of the heat exchanger (300) and can exchange heat with the water vapor introduced into the heat exchanger (300).

[0309] The air that has exchanged heat with the above water vapor flows axially (upward) toward the suction side of the fan (160), passes through the air guide device (170), and can be discharged to the outside of the dehumidifier through the discharge device (190).

[0310] The separated moisture can be discharged downward from the dehumidifying module (120) and introduced into the vacuum pump (230) through the first connecting pipe (235).

[0311] High-temperature compressed air from the vacuum pump (230) can be introduced into the heat exchanger (300) through the second connecting pipe (236). Steam introduced into the heat exchanger (300) can exchange heat with low-temperature air while flowing through the steam path (336).

[0312] The water condensed by the above air can flow to the lower part of the heat exchanger (300) and be collected in the cover (360) of the heat exchanger (300). The water in the cover (360) can be discharged from the heat exchanger (300) through the discharge hole (364) and can be introduced and stored in the water tank (250) through the condensate pipe (238).

[0313] By this configuration, air is effectively dehumidified and the separated moisture can be condensed in the heat exchanger and easily stored in a water tank.

[0314] A dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a case forming an intake portion, a dehumidifying module provided on the inside of the case and having a circumferential air contact area, and a heat exchanger provided on the inner peripheral surface of the dehumidifying module. With this configuration, the contact area between air and the dehumidifying module can be increased, and the separated water vapor can be effectively condensed. Therefore, the dehumidifier has significant industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A case forming an intake portion that sucks air in a circular direction; A dehumidifying module provided inside the case and having an outer surface with which air sucked in from the suction unit comes into contact and an inner surface defining a through hole; A vacuum pump that compresses the water vapor separated from the above dehumidifying module at high temperature; A heat exchanger disposed in the above-mentioned through-hole, wherein heat exchange is performed between the steam discharged from the vacuum pump and the air passing through the dehumidifying module; and A dehumidifier including a water tank for storing water condensed in the above heat exchanger.

2. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifier in which the heat exchanger has a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the inner circumferential surface so that air passing through the dehumidifying module can flow into the heat exchanger.

3. In paragraph 1, The above heat exchanger, A dehumidifier comprising a first heat exchanger extending in a circular direction corresponding to a portion of the inner surface and a second heat exchanger extending in a circular direction corresponding to another portion of the inner surface.

4. In paragraph 1, The above heat exchanger, It comprises a first part forming at least a part of the inner surface of the heat exchanger and a second part forming at least a part of the outer surface of the heat exchanger, The above first and second parts are a dehumidifier that forms a hole through which air passing through the dehumidifying module passes.

5. In paragraph 4, A dehumidifier wherein the first part includes a first hole defining a portion of the hole, and the second part includes a second hole defining another portion of the hole.

6. In paragraph 4, A dehumidifier in which the above holes are formed to form a plurality of rows in the circumferential direction of the heat exchanger and a plurality of columns in the axial direction.

7. In paragraph 1, The above heat exchanger is composed of parts 1 and 2 combined, A dehumidifier, wherein one of the first part and the second part includes a plate extending in a circular direction and a projection protruding from the plate and coupled to the other of the first and second parts.

8. In paragraph 7, The first part includes a first plate and a first protrusion, and the second part includes a second plate and a second protrusion. A dehumidifier in which the first and second plates and the first and second protrusions define a path for steam flowing into the heat exchanger.

9. In paragraph 8, The above steam path includes a plurality of steam paths spaced in the circumferential direction, The above heat exchanger is a dehumidifier having a hole formed between the plurality of steam passages and through which air passes to exchange heat with steam in the steam passages.

10. In paragraph 1, The above heat exchanger includes a heat exchanger having a lower portion through which steam flows in and a cover that shields the lower portion of the heat exchanger. The above cover is a dehumidifier that forms a discharge hole through which condensed water from the heat exchanger is discharged.

11. In paragraph 10, A dehumidifier in which the above cover forms a through hole to which an inlet pipe for introducing steam into the heat exchanger is connected, and the inlet pipe is connected to the heat exchanger through the through hole.

12. In paragraph 10, The above heat exchanger, A dehumidifier including a guide member provided inside the heat exchanger and extending upward from the lower end of the heat exchanger to guide water vapor to the upper end of the heat exchanger.

13. In paragraph 10, A dehumidifier including a condensate pipe connected to the discharge hole of the above cover and guiding condensate discharged from the discharge hole downward, and the water tank connected to the condensate pipe.

14. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifier wherein the dehumidifying module further includes a connection port for discharging water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module, and a connection pipe coupled to the connection port for guiding the separated water vapor to the vacuum pump.

15. In paragraph 1, The above dehumidifying module, A dehumidifier comprising a dehumidifying member including a polymer membrane fiber to selectively separate water vapor in the air, a fixing member for fixing the dehumidifying member by a potting method, and a cap for accommodating the fixing member.

16. A case forming an intake portion that sucks air in a circular direction; A dehumidifying module provided inside the case and having a hollow cylindrical shape including an outer surface and an inner surface; A heat exchanger inserted into the inner surface of the dehumidifying module and performing heat exchange between the water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module and the air passing through the dehumidifying module; and A dehumidifier including a water tank for storing water condensed in the above heat exchanger.

17. In paragraph 16, A vacuum pump connected to the above dehumidifying module and compressing the separated water vapor; and A dehumidifier further comprising a connecting pipe connected to the vacuum pump and guiding the water vapor to the heat exchanger.

18. In paragraph 16, The heat exchanger includes a first part forming a first hole and a second part forming a second hole and coupled to the first part, A dehumidifier in which the first and second holes form holes through which air passing through the dehumidifying module is sucked.

19. In paragraph 18, The above first and second parts include the first and second protrusions defining the path of the water vapor, A dehumidifier in which the steam path is positioned adjacent to the hole so that the steam exchanges heat with the air.

20. In paragraph 18, The above first and second parts are combined to form the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger of the heat exchanger, respectively. A dehumidifier in which the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are arranged in a circumferential direction along the inner surface of the dehumidifying module.

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