Dehumidifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dehumidifier. The present invention comprises a housing forming flow paths for moist air, and a plurality of dehumidification modules disposed in the housing, thereby increasing the surface in which the moist air to comes in contact with the plurality of dehumidification modules. The plurality of dehumidification modules are arrayed in rows in a first direction and columns in a second direction to prevent moist air from flowing and bypassing the dehumidification modules.

Description

dehumidifier

[0001] The present invention relates to a dehumidifying device.

[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 dehumidifying device capable of implementing constant temperature dehumidification without increasing the temperature of an indoor space by selectively separating moisture in the air through a dehumidifying module including a membrane without operating a refrigeration cycle.

[0008] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device having a dehumidifying module using a membrane (hollow fiber membrane) to increase the contact surface area between air and a dehumidifying member.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged longitudinally inside a housing, and the contact surface area of ​​the humid air is expanded by allowing the humid air introduced into the housing to pass through all of the plurality of dehumidifying modules.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which moisture can be easily absorbed by contacting moisture on the outer surface of a dehumidifying module arranged in the longitudinal direction and allowing the contacted moisture to be absorbed by a dehumidifying member in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0011] The present invention aims to provide a dehumidifying device comprising a housing including a suction portion formed at the front end of the dehumidifying module and a discharge portion formed at the rear end of the dehumidifying module, and in which humid air can easily flow along the length direction of the dehumidifying module from the suction portion toward the discharge portion.

[0012] The present invention aims to provide a dehumidifying device having a header forming through holes at the front and rear ends of a dehumidifying module, thereby facilitating the flow of air from an intake portion toward a discharge portion and effectively separating moisture from the air to the dehumidifying module in the process.

[0013] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged in multiple stages inside a housing, thereby efficiently utilizing the installation space of the dehumidifying modules and allowing air to easily contact the outer surface of the dehumidifying modules without bypassing the dehumidifying modules.

[0014] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which a blocking cap is provided at one end of a dehumidifying module so that vacuum pressure can be easily formed inside a dehumidifying member, thereby facilitating moisture separation from the dehumidifying member.

[0015] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device having a module pipe at the other end of the dehumidifying module so that air (water vapor) containing moisture separated from the dehumidifying module can be easily discharged to the outside of the dehumidifying module.

[0016] A dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a dehumidifying member composed of a membrane with which moist air comes into contact, thereby increasing the contact surface area between moist air and the dehumidifying member and improving moisture separation performance.

[0017] The dehumidifying device includes a suction part and a discharge part, and the suction part is formed at the front end of the dehumidifying module and the discharge part is formed at the rear end of the dehumidifying module, so that when moist air flows from the suction part toward the discharge part, it can pass in the longitudinal direction of the dehumidifying module, thereby increasing the contact surface area between the moist air and the dehumidifying module.

[0018] In addition, since the direction of air flow and the direction of extension of the dehumidifying module are parallel, even if the air flow speed increases, the dehumidifying module can be prevented from being damaged by air pressure.

[0019] The present invention can increase the surface area of ​​the humid air that comes into contact with the plurality of dehumidifying modules by including a housing that forms a path for humid air and a plurality of dehumidifying modules arranged in the housing.

[0020] The above multiple dehumidifying modules can be arranged in multiple stages within the path of the humid air.

[0021] The above-mentioned plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged to form a plurality of rows in the first direction and a plurality of columns in the second direction, thereby preventing humid air from flowing by bypassing the dehumidifying modules.

[0022] Since the above-mentioned plurality of dehumidifying modules includes a first dehumidifying module, a second dehumidifying module spaced apart from the first dehumidifying module, and a third dehumidifying module arranged in a space between the first and second dehumidifying modules, the space utilization in which the above-mentioned plurality of dehumidifying modules can be installed within the flow path of the humid air can be increased.

[0023] The above dehumidifying device includes a first header supporting one end of the dehumidifying module, and the first header forms a through hole that sends air to the surrounding space of the plurality of dehumidifying modules, thereby facilitating the formation of a flow path for humid air.

[0024] The above first header may be positioned closer to the suction portion among the suction portion and the discharge portion.

[0025] The above-mentioned through-hole is formed so that a number of fine holes penetrate, so that moist air sucked through the suction portion can flow evenly into the internal space of the housing.

[0026] The above dehumidifying device has a first cover covering the first header, and the first cover can form a storage space for water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module.

[0027] The above first cover has a connection port connected to a vacuum pump, so that water vapor introduced into the first cover can be easily sucked into the vacuum pump.

[0028] The above dehumidifying device includes a second header supporting the other end of the dehumidifying module, and the second header forms a through hole through which dry air separated from moisture flows through the plurality of dehumidifying modules, thereby facilitating discharge of the dry air.

[0029] The above second header may be positioned closer to the discharge portion among the suction portion and the discharge portion.

[0030] The above-mentioned through-hole is formed so that a plurality of microscopic holes penetrate, so that air passing through the dehumidifying module can be evenly discharged from the internal space of the housing.

[0031] The above dehumidifying device has a second cover covering the second header, and the second cover can easily guide dry air from which moisture has been separated to the discharge unit.

[0032] The above dehumidifying module includes a dehumidifying member and a blocking cap that blocks one end of the dehumidifying member, so that a negative pressure (vacuum pressure) can be easily formed inside the dehumidifying member.

[0033] The above dehumidifying module includes a module pipe connected to the other end of the dehumidifying member, and the module pipe passes through the header and extends to the inside of the cover, so that moisture separated from the dehumidifying member can be easily guided to the cover.

[0034] In one aspect of the present invention, a dehumidifying device may include a housing; a dehumidifying module provided inside the housing and including a dehumidifying member composed of a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture from humid air; a first header provided at a first end side of the dehumidifying module and having an intake portion for sucking air into the interior of the housing; a second header provided at a second end side of the dehumidifying module and having an exhaust portion for discharging air from which moisture has been separated while passing through the dehumidifying module; and an end cap connected to the first header and for discharging water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module.

[0035] The above dehumidifying member may be arranged so that the suction direction of air sucked into the interior of the housing from the suction portion intersects the extension direction of the dehumidifying member.

[0036] The dehumidifying member may extend from the first header toward the second header so as to have a length in the direction from the suction portion toward the discharge portion.

[0037] The first direction in which the above dehumidifying member extends can be formed perpendicular to the second direction, which is the direction in which air is sucked through the suction unit.

[0038] The second direction in which the above dehumidifying member extends can be formed perpendicular to the second direction, which is the direction in which air is discharged through the discharge portion.

[0039] The first header includes a first support wall that supports the dehumidifying module, and the first support wall can form a first through hole that allows air sucked through the suction unit to flow into the internal space of the housing.

[0040] The first support wall includes a first module joint into which at least a portion of the dehumidifying module is inserted, and a plurality of first through holes can be formed around the first module joint.

[0041] The size of the above first through hole can be formed smaller than the size of the first module joint.

[0042] The above first header supports the lower part of the dehumidifying module and may have a shape in which the lower part is opened to communicate with the end cap.

[0043] The first header includes an outer wall defined by a front wall, two side walls, a rear wall, and an upper wall, and the upper wall can form a module joint portion to which the dehumidifying module is coupled and a through hole through which air sucked in through the suction portion passes.

[0044] The second header includes a second support wall that supports the dehumidifying module, and the second support wall can form a second through hole that allows air flowing inside the housing to be discharged to the outside of the housing.

[0045] The second support wall includes a second module joint into which at least a portion of the dehumidifying module is inserted, and a plurality of second through holes may be formed around the second module joint.

[0046] The above dehumidifying module may further include a first module cap that is coupled to the first end of the dehumidifying member and supported by the first header, and a module pipe that is coupled to the first module cap and discharges water vapor separated from the dehumidifying member.

[0047] The above dehumidifying module may further include a second module cap coupled to the second end of the dehumidifying member and supported by the first header, and a blocking cap that shields the open end of the second module cap.

[0048] The above end cap is a first end cap coupled to the first header and having a connection port for discharging water vapor, and may further include a second end cap coupled to the second header.

[0049] The above dehumidifying module is provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple dehumidifying modules can be arranged in multiple stages in the first direction and the second direction in the internal space of the housing.

[0050] In another aspect of the present invention, a dehumidifying device may include a housing; a dehumidifying module provided inside the housing and including a dehumidifying member composed of a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture from humid air; a first header supporting the dehumidifying module and having an intake portion for drawing air into the interior of the housing; a second header supporting the dehumidifying module and having an exhaust portion for discharging air from which moisture has been separated while passing through the dehumidifying module; a first end cap connected to the first header and forming a connection port through which water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module is discharged and connected to a vacuum pump; and a second end cap connected to the second header and shielding an open end of the second header.

[0051] The first header may include a first support wall supporting one side of the dehumidifying module, and the first support wall may include a plurality of first through holes fluidly connected to the suction unit and a first module coupling portion to which the first module cap of the dehumidifying module is coupled.

[0052] The above first module coupling portions are formed in a number corresponding to the number of dehumidifying modules, and the above plurality of first module coupling portions can be arranged in multiple stages corresponding to the arrangement of the above plurality of dehumidifying modules.

[0053] The second header may include a second support wall supporting the other side of the dehumidifying module, and the first support wall may include a plurality of second through holes fluidly connected to the discharge portion and a second module coupling portion to which the second module cap of the dehumidifying module is coupled.

[0054] The above dehumidifying module includes a module cap that covers an end of the dehumidifying member, and the module cap may include a protrusion provided in a step on an outer surface of the module cap to support the module cap to the first header or the second header when the module cap is coupled to the first header or the second header.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by selectively separating moisture in the air through a dehumidification module including a membrane without driving a refrigeration cycle, constant temperature dehumidification can be easily implemented without increasing the temperature of an indoor space.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidification module using a membrane (hollow fiber membrane) is provided, so that the contact surface area between air and a dehumidification member can be increased.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged longitudinally inside a housing, and the contact surface area of ​​the humid air can be expanded by having the humid air introduced into the housing pass through all of the plurality of dehumidifying modules.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, moisture can be easily absorbed by contacting the outer surface of a dehumidifying module arranged in the longitudinal direction and adsorbing the contacted moisture onto a dehumidifying member in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a housing including a suction part formed at the front end of the dehumidifying module and a discharge part formed at the rear end of the dehumidifying module is provided, and humid air can easily flow from the suction part toward the discharge part along the length direction of the dehumidifying module.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing a header forming a through hole at the front and rear ends of the dehumidifying module, the flow of air from the suction portion toward the discharge portion can be facilitated, and in the process, the separation of moisture from the air to the dehumidifying module can be effectively achieved.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by arranging a plurality of dehumidifying modules in a multi-stage arrangement inside a housing, the installation space of the dehumidifying modules can be efficiently utilized, and air can easily contact the outer surface of the dehumidifying module without bypassing the dehumidifying module.

[0062] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a blocking cap is provided at one end of the dehumidifying module, so that vacuum pressure can be easily formed inside the dehumidifying member, thereby facilitating separation of moisture from the dehumidifying member.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a module pipe is provided at the other end of the dehumidification module so that air (water vapor) containing moisture separated from the dehumidification module can be easily discharged to the outside of the dehumidification module.

[0064] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a dehumidification module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 3 is a drawing showing the configuration of a dehumidifying module and a blocking cap according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the configuration of a dehumidifying module and a connecting pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a plurality of dehumidifying modules according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a plurality of dehumidifying modules and first and second headers according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first header according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the configuration of a second header according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an assembly in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules and first and second headers are combined according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the first and second covers and the assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the first and second covers and the assembly combined according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention in which moist air is sucked in and dry air from which moisture has been removed is discharged.

[0076] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of Figure 1, showing humid air being sucked into a dehumidifier and dry air from which moisture has been removed being discharged.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to Fig. 1, the dehumidifying device (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a polyhedral shape. For example, the width (W1) of the dehumidifying device (10) in the first direction may be greater than the width (W2) in the second direction.

[0081] For example, the first direction may define the height of the dehumidifying device (10) and may correspond to the length direction of the dehumidifying module (120).

[0082] The second direction may define the lateral direction of the dehumidifier (10). The width (W2) of the second direction may correspond to the width of the suction portion (220) or the discharge portion (320).

[0083] The width (W1) of the first direction of the dehumidifier (10) may be the same as or different from the width (W3) of the third direction of the dehumidifier (10). The third direction may define the front-back direction of the dehumidifier (10). In Fig. 1, the width (W1) of the first direction is illustrated as being larger than the width (W3) of the third direction, but it is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0084] The width (W3) in the third direction may correspond to the length of the rows in the front-rear direction in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) are arranged. The size of the width (W3) in the third direction may be adjusted depending on the dehumidifying capacity of the dehumidifying device.

[0085] The above dehumidifying device (10) can be configured to separate and discharge moisture from the humid air sucked in through the suction portion (132), and then discharge the dehumidified air after the moisture has been separated through the discharge portion (142).

[0086] The direction of intake and exhaust of air and the direction of discharge of separated moisture may be different.

[0087] The suction direction of the humid air through the suction unit (132) and the discharge direction of the dehumidified air through the discharge unit (142) may be the third direction of the dehumidifying device (10). The discharge direction of the separated moisture may be the first direction of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0088] The third direction and the first direction may be orthogonal to each other. For example, the third direction may be the front-back direction of the dehumidifier (10) as shown in FIG. 1, and the first direction may be the up-down direction of the dehumidifier (10) as shown in FIG. 1. In this way, by making the first and third directions orthogonal to each other, the moisture separation performance of the dehumidifier may be improved (see FIG. 12).

[0089] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a housing (100) that forms a space for accommodating a plurality of dehumidifying modules (120). The space for accommodating the humid air sucked in through the suction unit (132) may form a path (hereinafter, air path).

[0090] The above housing (100) may have a shape in which a plurality of walls are combined to surround the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120).

[0091] The above housing (100) may include a first wall (101) forming the front, a second wall (102) forming the rear, and a third wall (103) forming both side surfaces.

[0092] The above dehumidifying device (10) may include a dehumidifying module (120) for removing moisture from the humid air sucked in through the suction unit (132).

[0093] The above dehumidifying module (120) may have a bar shape.

[0094] The above dehumidifying module (120) may have a length extending in the first direction (up and down). The dehumidifying module (120) may be placed within the internal space of the housing (100), i.e., within the air passage.

[0095] The above dehumidifying module (120) may have a cylindrical shape with a long length and an outer circumference. The outer circumference may constitute a contact surface with which moist air comes into contact.

[0096] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a header (130, 140) that supports the dehumidifying module (120). The header (130, 140) may support both sides of the dehumidifying module (120), i.e., the upper and lower parts.

[0097] The above header (130, 140) may include a first header (130) that supports one side (lower side) of the dehumidification module (120) and a second header (140) that supports the other side (upper side) of the dehumidification module (120).

[0098] The above first and second headers (130, 140) can define the upper and lower ends of the air path passing through the dehumidifying module (120).

[0099] The first header (130) may include the suction portion (132). For example, the suction portion (132) may be configured as a suction port protruding from one surface of the first header (130).

[0100] The second header (140) may include the discharge portion (142). For example, the discharge portion (142) may be configured as a discharge port protruding from one surface of the second header (140).

[0101] The first and second headers (130, 140) may be coupled to at least a portion of the dehumidifying module (120), for example, a module cap (125, 126, see FIG. 2). The support plate (171, 175) may include a module coupling portion (134, 144, see FIG. 6) into which the module cap (125, 126) is inserted. The module coupling portion (134, 144) may be understood as a "support hole."

[0102] The first and second headers (130, 140) may include through-holes (135, 145, see FIG. 6) through which air passes. Air that flows into the air passage of the housing (100) through the through-hole (135) of the first header (130) may be discharged from the air passage through the through-hole (145) of the second header (140) after moisture is separated from the air in the dehumidifying module (120).

[0103] The dehumidifying device (10) may further include end caps (150, 160) covering the first and second headers (130, 140). The end caps (150, 160) may include a first end cap (150) covering the first header (130) and a second end cap (160) covering the second header (140).

[0104] The first end cap (150) can cover the open bottom of the first header (130), and the second end cap (160) can cover the open top of the first header (140).

[0105] The above first end cap (150) may have a tray shape with an open top.

[0106] The above second end cap (160) may have a plate shape.

[0107] The first end cap (150) may include a connection port (155) to which a vacuum pump (500, see FIG. 12) is connected. The vacuum pump and the connection port (155) may be connected by a connection pipe (510, see FIG. 12).

[0108] For example, the connection port (155) may be formed on any one of the four side walls. However, this is not limited thereto, and the connection port (155) may also be formed on the bottom wall of the first end cap (150).

[0109] The water vapor discharged through the above connection port (155) is sucked into a vacuum pump and, in the process of being compressed at high pressure, is transformed into water and can be stored in a water tank (not shown). As another example, the water vapor discharged from the vacuum pump may be passed through an additionally equipped sensible heat exchanger to be condensed into water and stored in a water tank.

[0110] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the configuration of a dehumidifying module and a blocking cap according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the configuration of a dehumidifying module and a connecting pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a plurality of dehumidifying modules according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, a dehumidifying module (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a dehumidifying member (121) capable of selectively separating moisture from humid air.

[0112] The above dehumidifying member (121) may include a membrane.

[0113] The above-mentioned dehumidifying member (121) may include a polymer membrane fiber having a hollow fiber structure with excellent selectivity for moisture. The polymer membrane fiber may be cut to a predetermined length and used. The polymer membrane fiber may be referred to as a "hollow fiber membrane."

[0114] The above polymer membrane fiber may have, for example, a diameter of about 400 to 420 μm and may be composed of polysulfone or polypropylene.

[0115] The surface of the polymer membrane fiber may be provided with a coating layer to increase the selectivity of moisture in the air. The coating layer may be composed of polyamide.

[0116] The above polymer membrane fibers can be provided in multiple strands (121a).

[0117] The above dehumidifying module (120) may further include a fixing member (122a, 122b, see FIG. 13) that fixes the polymer film fiber composed of the plurality of strands.

[0118] The above-mentioned fixing members (122a, 122b) may be formed by filling and solidifying the interior of a potting cap (not shown) in a liquid form to fix the positions of a plurality of dehumidifying members (121). The potting cap may be removed after the liquid material solidifies. For example, the above-mentioned fixing members (122a, 122b) may be formed of a urethane or epoxy material.

[0119] The above-mentioned fixing member (122a, 122b) fills the space between the plurality of dehumidifying members (121) to fix the dehumidifying members, and the ends of the dehumidifying members (121) can be exposed to the outside of the fixing member (122a, 122b).

[0120] The above fixing part (122a, 122b) may include a first fixing part (122a) for fixing one end of the dehumidifying member (121) and a second fixing part (122b) for fixing the other end.

[0121] The above dehumidifying module (120) may further include module caps (125, 126) covering both ends of the dehumidifying member (121). The module caps (125, 126) may include a first module cap (125) covering a first end of the dehumidifying member (121) and a second module cap (126) covering a second end.

[0122] The first module cap (125) and the second module cap (126) may have the same shape.

[0123] The above module cap (125, 126) may include a step (125a, 126a). The step (125a, 126a) may be provided in a stepped manner on the outer surface of the module cap (125, 126) to support the module cap (125, 126) to the module coupling portion (134, 144) when the module cap (125, 126) is coupled to the first and second headers (130, 140).

[0124] The above jaws (125a, 126a) may include a first jaw (125a) formed on the first module cap (125) and a second jaw (126a) formed on the second module cap (126).

[0125] By the above jaws (125a, 126a), a portion of the outer surface of the module cap (125, 126) may have a polygonal or similar shape rather than a circle. By this shape, the dehumidifying module (120) can be prevented from rotating while the module cap (125, 126) is coupled to the module coupling portion (134, 144).

[0126] The shape of the above module coupling portion (134, 144) may also have a shape corresponding to the non-circular shape of the above module cap (125, 126).

[0127] The above module caps (125, 126) may include cap holes (125b, 126b). The cap holes (125b, 126b) may include a first cap hole (125b) formed in the first module cap (125) and a second cap hole (126b) formed in the second module cap (126).

[0128] The first cap hole (125b) may be formed to penetrate the lower end of the first module cap (125). The second cap hole (126b) may be formed to penetrate the upper end of the second module cap (126).

[0129] The above dehumidifying module (120) may further include a blocking cap (127) that blocks the second cap hole (126b). By the blocking cap (127) covering the second cap hole (126b), a negative pressure (vacuum pressure) may be formed inside the dehumidifying module (120), i.e., in the dehumidifying member (121).

[0130] A vacuum pump is connected to the above dehumidifying device (10), and when the vacuum pump 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).

[0131] Therefore, when moist air comes into contact with the outer surface of the dehumidifying member, moisture contained in the moist air is adsorbed onto the surface of the outer surface, and the adsorbed moisture can be selectively separated from the air by diffusing and then desorbing from the surface. The separated moisture can flow along the hollow inner space of the dehumidifying member.

[0132] At this time, the blocking cap (127) can facilitate the formation of the negative pressure by blocking the second cap hole (126b).

[0133] The above blocking cap (127) may include a cap protrusion (127a) that is inserted into the second cap hole (126b). The cap protrusion (127a) is inserted into the second cap hole (126b), and the main body portion of the blocking cap (127) may be seated on the upper end of the second module cap (126).

[0134] A module pipe (128) can be connected to the first module cap (125). The module pipe (128) can be inserted into the first cap hole (125b) of the first module cap (125).

[0135] For example, a first screw thread (128a) is formed on the outer surface of the module tube (128), and the first screw thread (128a) can be thread-connected to a second screw thread (125b1) formed on the inner surface of the first cap hole (125b).

[0136] The above module pipe (128) can guide the water vapor separated from the dehumidification module (120), i.e., air containing moisture, to be discharged from the dehumidification module (120).

[0137] The above module pipe (128) may extend downward through the module joint portion (134) of the first header (130) and include a portion located in the inner space of the first header (130).

[0138] Since the first end cap (150) is coupled to the lower side of the first header (130), the module pipe (128) can communicate with the internal space of the first end cap (150).

[0139] The above module pipe (128) includes a discharge side end (128b) for discharging water vapor, and water vapor discharged from the discharge side end (128b) can flow into the internal space of the first end cap (150).

[0140] The above introduced water vapor is discharged from the first end cap (150) through the connection port (155) of the first end cap (150) and can be sucked into the vacuum pump (500) through the connection pipe (510).

[0141] Although not separately disclosed in the drawing, the dehumidifying module (120) may further include a packing member that surrounds the plurality of polymer film fibers to fix (maintain the shape) the polymer film fibers composed of the plurality of strands.

[0142] By means of the above packing member, the plurality of polymer membrane fibers can form a bundle. The bundle of dehumidifying members can form a single dehumidifying member.

[0143] The above-mentioned packing member is composed of a resin material, which provides strong water resistance and suppresses bacterial growth and mold growth. Furthermore, the packing member can protect the dehumidifying member (121) by blocking large dust particles in the air. For example, the packing member may be composed of polypropylene.

[0144] The above packing member may be configured to include a number of small holes through which moist air may pass. For example, the packing member may be configured as a mesh type.

[0145] The above dehumidifying modules (120) are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple dehumidifying modules (120) can be arranged in multiple stages so that they can be relatively densely arranged within the housing (100).

[0146] For example, the plurality of dehumidification modules (120) may be arranged in multiple stages in the direction from one side of the housing (100) toward the other side, i.e., in the second direction. For example, three dehumidification modules may be arranged in the first stage, two dehumidification modules in the second stage, and three dehumidification modules in the third stage.

[0147] When defining the first extension line (ℓ) connecting the three dehumidifying modules (120) arranged in the first stage, the second extension line (ℓ) connecting the two dehumidifying modules (120) arranged in the second stage, and the third extension line (ℓ) connecting the three dehumidifying modules (120) arranged in the third stage, the first to third extension lines (ℓℓ) can be arranged in the second direction.

[0148] The above 1st to 3rd extension lines (ℓℓ) can be understood as imaginary lines extending in the third direction.

[0149] According to the arrangement of a plurality of dehumidification modules (120) in this manner, a single dehumidification module (120) is arranged in the space between two adjacent dehumidification modules, thereby enabling a plurality of dehumidification modules (120) to be effectively arranged in the internal space of the housing (100), and increasing the space utilization of the housing (100).

[0150] In addition, the moist air sucked through the suction unit (132) can easily contact the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) without bypassing the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) and thus moisture can be separated.

[0151] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a plurality of dehumidifying modules and first and second headers according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a view showing the configuration of a first header according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a view showing the configuration of a second header according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a view showing an assembly in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules and first and second headers are combined according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of first and second covers and the assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a view showing the configuration of first and second covers and the assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention may be arranged such that a plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) extend in a vertical direction, i.e., a first direction, from an intake portion (132) toward an outlet portion (142). That is, the dehumidifying module (120) may have a length in the first direction.

[0153] The above dehumidifying module (120) may include a dehumidifying member (121) extending in the first direction, a first module cap (125) provided at one end of the dehumidifying member (121), and a second module cap (126) provided at the other end.

[0154] The above dehumidifying module (120) may further include a blocking cap (127) that covers the cap hole (126b) of the second module cap (126). The blocking cap (127) may be provided at the upper end of the dehumidifying module (120).

[0155] The above dehumidifying module (120) may further include a module pipe (128) connected to the cap hole (125b) of the first module cap (125). The module pipe (128) may extend downward from the first module cap (125).

[0156] A first header (130) and a second header (140) can be coupled to both ends of the dehumidifying module (120). The first header (130) can be coupled to the first module cap (125), and the second header (140) can be coupled to the second module cap (126).

[0157] The first header (130) may have a shape in which the lower end is open and an upper wall (131e) supporting the dehumidification module (120) is provided. In detail, the first header (130) may include an outer wall (131) forming an exterior appearance. The outer wall (131) may include two side walls (131a, 131b), a front wall (131c), a rear wall (131d), and an upper wall (131e).

[0158] A suction part (132) may be formed on the front wall (131c). A suction port (132a) may extend forward of the suction part (132), and a connecting pipe (not shown) for blowing moist air into the suction part (132) may be connected to the suction port (132a).

[0159] The above upper wall (131e) can be called a first support wall in that it supports the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120).

[0160] The first header (130) may include a first module coupling portion (134) to which the dehumidifying module (120) is coupled. The first module coupling portion (134) may be formed to penetrate the upper wall (131e) of the first header (130).

[0161] The above first module coupling parts (134) are formed in a number corresponding to the number of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120), and the plurality of first module coupling parts (134) can be arranged in multiple stages corresponding to the arrangement of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120).

[0162] The lower part of the first jaw (125a) of the first module cap (125) is inserted into the first module coupling portion (134), and the upper part of the first jaw (125a) can be supported on the upper surface of the first header (130). The lower part of the first jaw (125a) and the first module coupling portion (134) have a non-circular shape and are coupled to each other, so that rotation of the dehumidifying module (120) can be prevented.

[0163] The first header (130) may include a first through hole (135) through which wet air sucked in through the suction portion (132) of the first header (130) passes. The first through hole (135) may be formed in the upper wall (131e).

[0164] The above first through-holes (135) are formed in multiple numbers, and the multiple first through-holes (135) can be formed around the first module joint (134).

[0165] The first through hole (135) may be evenly formed over the entire upper surface of the first header (130) so that wet air can flow into the internal space of the housing (100) through the upper surface of the first header (130).

[0166] The size of the first through hole (135) may be formed smaller than the size of the first module joint (134).

[0167] The second header (140) may have a shape in which the upper end is open and a lower wall (141e) supporting the dehumidifying module (120) is provided. In detail, the second header (140) may include an outer wall (141) forming an exterior appearance. The outer wall (141) may include two side walls (141a, 141b), a front wall (141c), a rear wall (141d), and a lower wall (141e).

[0168] A discharge portion (142) may be formed on the rear wall (141d). A discharge port (142a) extends to the rear of the discharge portion (142), and a connecting pipe (not shown) that guides air discharged from the discharge portion (142) may be connected to the discharge port (142a).

[0169] The above lower wall (141e) can be called a second support wall in that it supports the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120).

[0170] The second header (140) may include a second module coupling portion (144) to which the dehumidifying module (120) is coupled. The second module coupling portion (144) may be formed to penetrate the lower wall (141e) of the second header (140).

[0171] The second module coupling portions (144) are formed in a number corresponding to the number of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120), and the plurality of second module coupling portions (144) can be arranged in multiple stages corresponding to the arrangement of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120).

[0172] The upper part of the second jaw (126a) of the second module cap (126) is inserted into the second module coupling portion (144), and the lower part of the second jaw (126a) can be supported on the bottom surface of the second header (140). Since the upper part of the second jaw (126a) and the second module coupling portion (144) have a non-circular shape and are coupled to each other, rotation of the dehumidifying module (120) can be prevented.

[0173] The second header (140) may include a second through hole (145) through which air separated from moisture passes inside the housing (100). A plurality of the second through holes (145) may be formed, and the plurality of second through holes (145) may be formed around the second module coupling portion (144).

[0174] The above second through hole (145) can be evenly formed over the entire upper surface of the second header (140) so that air inside the housing (100) can be discharged through the bottom surface of the second header (140).

[0175] The size of the second through hole (145) may be formed smaller than the size of the second module joint (144).

[0176] By the first and second headers (130, 140), both ends of the dehumidifying module (120), i.e., the top and bottom, can be stably supported.

[0177] Air sucked into the interior of the first header (130) from the front of the dehumidifier through the suction portion (132) flows upward along the dehumidifying module (120) inside the housing (100) and can be discharged rearward toward the discharge portion (142) inside the second header (140).

[0178] In a state where the dehumidifying module (120) is coupled to the first header (130), the module pipe (128) provided at the lower end of the dehumidifying module (120) can extend downward from the upper wall (131e) of the first header (130). The module pipe (128) can communicate with the internal space of the first end cap (150).

[0179] The first end cap (150) may have a shape in which the upper end is open and closed by a lower wall (151e). In detail, the first end cap (150) may include an outer wall (151) forming an exterior appearance. The outer wall (151) may include two side walls (151a, 151b), a front wall (151c), a rear wall (151d), and a lower wall (151e).

[0180] A vacuum pump (500) may be connected to one of the above-described side walls, and may include a connection port (155) through which water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (120) is discharged. For example, the connection port (155) may be formed in the first side wall (151a).

[0181] The water vapor discharged through the above connection port (155) is sucked in by a vacuum pump and compressed at high pressure, where it changes into water and can be stored in a water tank.

[0182] A recessed portion (153) may be formed inside the first end cap (150). The recessed portion (153) is formed to recess downward from the upper end of the first end cap (150), and may form an inner space of the first end cap (150).

[0183] The above-mentioned recessed portion (153) can form a space between the end of the dehumidifying module (120), that is, the first module cap (125) and the lower wall (151e) of the first end cap (150).

[0184] The above-mentioned depression (153) can form a space in which high-humidity air (water vapor) containing moisture separated from the plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) flows.

[0185] The upper end of the first end cap (150) can be coupled to the open lower end of the first header (130).

[0186] In a state where the dehumidifying module (120) is coupled to the second header (140), the blocking cap (127) provided at the top of the dehumidifying module (120) may be located on the upper side of the upper wall (141e) of the second header (140). The blocking cap (127) may be located within the space formed by the second header (140) and the second end cap (160).

[0187] The open upper portion of the second header (140) may be shielded by a second end cap (160). The second end cap (160) may have a flat shape and may have an area corresponding to the open upper portion of the second header (140).

[0188] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which moist air is sucked in and dry air from which moisture has been removed is discharged, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 1, showing a dehumidifying device, in which moist air is sucked in and dry air from which moisture has been removed is discharged.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, when the fan (600) connected to the dehumidifier (10) is driven, air can be sucked into the interior of the dehumidifier (10) through the suction portion (132). For example, the fan (600) can be provided on the discharge side of the dehumidifier (10).

[0190] The direction of suction through the above suction unit (132) can form a direction (front-back direction) that intersects the direction in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) extend, i.e., the up-down direction.

[0191] The wet air sucked in from the above suction portion (132) can be introduced into the inner space of the first header (130) and into the inner space of the housing (100) through the first through hole (135) of the first header (130).

[0192] The air (dotted arrow) introduced into the internal space of the housing (100) flows upward and can come into contact with the dehumidifying member (121) of a plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) arranged inside the housing (100).

[0193] Moisture in the air that comes into contact with the dehumidifying member (121) is adsorbed onto the dehumidifying member (121) by the suction force of the vacuum pump (500) and can be desorbed into the internal hollow space of the dehumidifying member (121). The air (water vapor) containing the moisture can flow downward through the internal hollow space of the dehumidifying member (121).

[0194] In detail, by driving the vacuum pump (500), a negative pressure lower than the external pressure can be formed inside the dehumidifying member (121). As air passes through the dehumidifying member (121), moisture contained in the air can come into contact with the surface of the dehumidifying member (121) and be adsorbed. Then, the adsorbed moisture can be selectively separated from the humid air by diffusing and then being desorbed from the surface.

[0195] The above-mentioned water vapor can be introduced into the recessed portion (153) of the first end cap (150) through the first module cap (125) and the module pipe (128) from the lower portion of the dehumidifying module (120). In addition, the above-mentioned water vapor can be discharged to the outside of the dehumidifying device (10) through the connection port (155) and sucked into the vacuum pump (500) through the connection pipe (510).

[0196] The water vapor is compressed in the vacuum pump (500), and the water that has undergone a phase change during the compression process can be stored in a water tank (not shown).

[0197] Meanwhile, the air from which the moisture has been separated can flow upward and enter the space defined by the second header (140) and the second end cap (160) through the second through-hole (145) of the second header (140). In addition, the air from which the moisture has been separated can be discharged to the outside of the dehumidifier (10) through the discharge portion (142) and sucked into the fan (600).

[0198] According to the configuration of this dehumidifying device (10), a plurality of dehumidifying modules (120) are densely arranged inside the housing (100), and first and second headers (130, 140) are provided at both ends of the housing (100) so that air flow can occur, and thus the contact surface area between the dehumidifying module and the humid air unit can increase, so that the dehumidifying performance can be improved.

[0199] And, the air (water vapor) from which moisture has been separated can be easily discharged to the outside of the dehumidifier through the first end cap (150).

[0200] A dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a dehumidifying member comprising a membrane with which moist air comes into contact, thereby increasing the contact surface area between moist air and the dehumidifying member and improving moisture separation performance. Therefore, it has significant industrial applicability.

Claims

1. Housing; A dehumidifying module provided inside the housing and including a dehumidifying member composed of polymer membrane fibers for separating moisture in humid air; A first header provided on the first end side of the dehumidifying module and having a suction portion for sucking air into the interior of the housing; A second header provided on the second end side of the dehumidifying module and having a discharge portion through which air from which moisture has been separated while passing through the dehumidifying module is discharged; and It is connected to the first header and includes an end cap through which water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module is discharged, The above dehumidifying member is a dehumidifying device in which the suction direction of air sucked into the interior of the housing from the suction portion intersects the extension direction of the dehumidifying member.

2. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the dehumidifying member extends in a direction from the first header toward the second header so as to have a length in the direction from the suction portion toward the discharge portion.

3. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the first direction in which the above-mentioned dehumidifying member extends is formed perpendicular to the second direction, which is the direction in which air is sucked through the suction unit.

4. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the first direction in which the above-mentioned dehumidifying member extends is formed perpendicular to the second direction, which is the direction in which air is discharged through the discharge portion.

5. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the first header includes a first support wall that supports the dehumidifying module, and the first support wall forms a first through-hole that allows air sucked through the suction unit to flow into the internal space of the housing.

6. In paragraph 5, A dehumidifying device in which the first support wall includes a first module joint portion into which at least a portion of the dehumidifying module is inserted, and a plurality of first through holes are formed around the first module joint portion.

7. In paragraph 6, A dehumidifying device in which the size of the first through hole is formed smaller than the size of the first module joint.

8. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the first header supports the lower part of the dehumidifying module and has an open lower part to communicate with the end cap.

9. In paragraph 8, The first header includes an exterior wall defined by a front wall, two side walls, a rear wall, and an upper wall, A dehumidifying device in which the upper wall forms a module joint portion to which the dehumidifying module is coupled and a through hole through which air sucked in through the suction portion passes.

10. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the second header includes a second support wall that supports the dehumidifying module, and the second support wall forms a second through hole that allows air flowing inside the housing to be discharged to the outside of the housing.

11. In paragraph 10, A dehumidifying device in which the second support wall includes a second module joint into which at least a portion of the dehumidifying module is inserted, and a plurality of second through holes are formed around the second module joint.

12. In paragraph 1, The above dehumidifying module, A dehumidifying device further comprising a first module cap coupled to the first end of the dehumidifying member and supported by the first header, and a module pipe coupled to the first module cap and discharging water vapor separated from the dehumidifying member.

13. In paragraph 1, The above dehumidifying module, A dehumidifying device further comprising a second module cap coupled to the second end of the dehumidifying member and supported by the first header, and a blocking cap shielding the open end of the second module cap.

14. In paragraph 1, The above end cap is a first end cap that is connected to the first header and has a connection port for discharging water vapor, A dehumidifier further comprising a second end cap coupled to the second header.

15. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device having a plurality of dehumidifying modules, wherein the plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged in multiple stages in the first direction and the second direction in the internal space of the housing.

16. Housing; A dehumidifying module provided inside the housing and including a dehumidifying member composed of polymer membrane fibers for separating moisture in humid air; A first header supporting the dehumidifying module and having a suction unit for sucking air into the interior of the housing; A second header supporting the dehumidifying module and having a discharge portion through which air from which moisture has been separated while passing through the dehumidifying module is discharged; A first end cap connected to the first header and forming a connection port through which water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module is discharged and connected to a vacuum pump; and A dehumidifier including a second end cap connected to the second header and shielding an open end of the second header.

17. In paragraph 16, The first header includes a first support wall supporting one side of the dehumidifying module, A dehumidifying device in which the first support wall includes a plurality of first through-holes fluidly connected to the suction portion and a first module coupling portion to which the first module cap of the dehumidifying module is coupled.

18. In paragraph 17, A dehumidifying device in which the above first module coupling portions are formed in a number corresponding to the number of dehumidifying modules, and the above first module coupling portions are arranged in multiple stages corresponding to the arrangement of the above dehumidifying modules.

19. In paragraph 16, The second header includes a second support wall that supports the other side of the dehumidifying module, A dehumidifying device in which the first support wall includes a plurality of second through holes fluidly connected to the discharge portion and a second module coupling portion to which the second module cap of the dehumidifying module is coupled.

20. In paragraph 16, The above dehumidifying module includes a module cap that covers the end of the dehumidifying member, The above module cap is, A dehumidifying device including a step provided on the outer surface of the module cap to support the module cap to the first header or the second header when the module cap is coupled to the first header or the second header.

Images