Dehumidifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dehumidifier. The dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: dehumidification modules comprising dehumidification members provided with polymer fibers to separate moisture from moist air; an upper plate disposed on top of the dehumidification modules; a lower plate disposed on the bottom of the dehumidification modules; and a vacuum case coupled to the upper plate or the lower plate and having a connection port for discharging the moisture separated in the dehumidification members.

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 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, and the air with reduced humidity exchanges heat with the refrigerant as it passes through the condenser, 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] Information on prior literature is as follows.

[0008] (1) First patent document

[0009] Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0083058 (Publication date: June 9, 2023)

[0010] Title of the invention: Air circulation system including membrane dehumidification module

[0011] (2) Second patent document

[0012] Republic of Korea Patent No. 10-1328447 (Registration date: November 6, 2013)

[0013] Title of the invention: Dehumidifying duct using a hollow fiber membrane module

[0014] (3) Third patent document

[0015] Republic of Korea Patent No. 10-1980257 (Registration date: May 14, 2019)

[0016] Title of the invention: Hybrid dehumidifying air conditioning device including a separation membrane

[0017] (4) Patent Document No. 4

[0018] Republic of Korea Patent No. 10-1980284 (Registration date: May 14, 2019)

[0019] Title of the invention: Dehumidification system using a membrane installed in a duct pipe

[0020] 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.

[0021] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device that can prevent a large pressure loss and ensure smooth air flow by using a hollow fiber membrane.

[0022] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which the contact surface area between air and a dehumidifying module can be increased.

[0023] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which the direction of flow of air passing through a dehumidifying module and the direction of discharge of separated water vapor are perpendicular to each other.

[0024] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which water vapor separated from humid air passing through a dehumidifying module can flow and be discharged through a single vacuum line.

[0025] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules can be stably fixed.

[0026] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dehumidifying device in which leakage of air flowing into a dehumidifying module can be minimized.

[0027] A dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a dehumidifying module including a dehumidifying member having a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture in humid air, an upper plate disposed above the dehumidifying module, a lower plate disposed below the dehumidifying module, and a vacuum case coupled to the upper plate or the lower plate and having a connection port for discharging moisture separated within the dehumidifying member.

[0028] The first direction of the moist air flowing into the dehumidifying member may be configured to be perpendicular to the second direction in which the moisture separated within the dehumidifying member flows.

[0029] The above dehumidifying member may have a length extending vertically between the upper plate and the lower plate.

[0030] The above dehumidifying modules are provided in multiple units, and a third direction in which the multiple dehumidifying modules are arranged can be configured to be perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0031] The above dehumidifying module may further include a fixing member surrounding at least a portion of the dehumidifying member.

[0032] The above dehumidifying modules are provided in multiple units, and the respective fixing parts of neighboring dehumidifying modules among the multiple dehumidifying modules can be connected to each other.

[0033] The above-mentioned fixed part may include an upper frame supporting an upper portion of the dehumidifying member, a lower frame supporting a lower portion of the dehumidifying member, and a vertical frame connecting the upper frame and the lower frame.

[0034] The upper frame and the lower frame may be formed in a ring shape to surround the outer surface of the dehumidifying member.

[0035] The above vertical frame can connect the lower surface of the upper frame and the upper surface of the lower frame.

[0036] The vertical frame may include a first vertical frame connecting one side of the lower surface of the upper frame and one side of the upper surface of the lower frame, and a second vertical frame connecting the other side of the lower surface of the upper frame and the other side of the upper surface of the lower frame.

[0037] The first vertical frame and the second vertical frame may be positioned opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying member.

[0038] The above-mentioned fixed portion may further include a connecting frame extending along the circumferential direction of the dehumidifying member and connecting the first vertical frame and the second vertical frame.

[0039] The above dehumidifying module may further include a cap covering both ends of the fixed part.

[0040] The cap may include an upper cap coupled to the upper end of the fixed portion and connected to the upper plate, and a lower cap coupled to the lower end of the fixed portion and connected to the lower plate.

[0041] The above vacuum case can be placed on the upper side of the upper plate.

[0042] An internal space through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member passes can be formed in the upper cap.

[0043] A passage hole may be formed in the upper plate to guide moisture in the internal space into the interior of the vacuum case.

[0044] A mounting groove may be formed in the lower plate to accommodate the lower portion of the fixed part.

[0045] A mounting hole may be formed in the above mounting groove to fasten the fixing member by a fastening member.

[0046] A flow space in which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member flows can be formed inside the vacuum case.

[0047] A connecting pipe extending from a vacuum pump can be connected to the above connecting port.

[0048] A dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a dehumidifying module including a dehumidifying member extending vertically and separating moisture from humid air, and a fixing member surrounding an outer circumferential surface of the dehumidifying member, an upper plate disposed above the dehumidifying module, a lower plate disposed below the dehumidifying module, and a vacuum case coupled to the upper plate or the lower plate and having a connection port for discharging moisture separated within the dehumidifying member.

[0049] The above dehumidifying module is composed of a plurality of dehumidifying modules, and the direction in which the plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged can form a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the dehumidifying member.

[0050] Among the above multiple dehumidifying modules, the fixed parts of adjacent dehumidifying modules can be connected to each other.

[0051] The above-mentioned fixed part may include an upper frame supporting an upper portion of the dehumidifying member, a lower frame supporting a lower portion of the dehumidifying member, and a vertical frame connecting the upper frame and the lower frame.

[0052] Among the above multiple dehumidifying modules, the vertical frames of adjacent dehumidifying modules can be connected to each other.

[0053] The vertical frame may include a first vertical frame connecting one side of the lower surface of the upper frame and one side of the upper surface of the lower frame, and a second vertical frame connecting the other side of the lower surface of the upper frame and the other side of the upper surface of the lower frame.

[0054] The first vertical frame and the second vertical frame may be positioned opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying member.

[0055] The above-mentioned fixed portion may further include a connecting frame extending along the circumferential direction of the dehumidifying member and connecting the first vertical frame and the second vertical frame.

[0056] Among the above multiple dehumidifying modules, the connecting frames of adjacent dehumidifying modules can be connected to each other.

[0057] 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.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidification module using a membrane (hollow fiber membrane) is provided, which has the advantage of increasing the contact surface area between air and a dehumidification member and reducing pressure loss.

[0059] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dehumidifying module is provided in which the flow direction of wet air and the discharge direction of separated water vapor are perpendicular to each other, thereby increasing the contact surface area between the dehumidifying member and wet air and improving moisture separation performance.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, water vapor separated from wet air can flow and be discharged through a single vacuum line, so that pressure control can be easily achieved and air leakage can be minimized.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a fixing member surrounding at least a portion of a dehumidifying member and an upper plate and a lower plate supporting the fixing member are provided, so that a plurality of dehumidifying members can be stably supported.

[0062] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the fixing parts of adjacent dehumidifying modules among a plurality of dehumidifying modules are connected to each other, the space between adjacent dehumidifying members is sealed, thereby preventing leakage of air flowing into the dehumidifying members.

[0063] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 2 is a front view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 3 is a side view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 4 is a plan view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 5 is a bottom view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a dehumidification module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of Fig. 1.

[0072] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 1.

[0073] Figure 11 is a drawing showing the flow direction of air and moisture in a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a front view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a side view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a plan view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a dehumidifying device (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a three-dimensional shape in which the height in the vertical direction is greater than the width in the front-back direction. The dehumidifying device (10) may have a plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) arranged in two rows in the front-back direction.

[0078] Define the direction.

[0079] With reference to Fig. 1, the direction in which the dehumidification module (100) arranged in the first row faces outward is defined as forward, and the direction in which the dehumidification module (100) arranged in the second row faces outward is defined as rear. The above-mentioned front-back direction may be referred to as the "first direction."

[0080] Based on Fig. 1, the longitudinal direction in which the dehumidifying module (100) extends is defined as the vertical direction. The vertical direction may be referred to as the “second direction.”

[0081] With reference to Fig. 1, the direction in which a plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) arranged in each column are arranged is defined as the lateral direction. The lateral direction may be called the "third direction."

[0082] The above dehumidifying device (10) may include a dehumidifying module (100) that comes into contact with humid air and separates moisture from the humid air. The dehumidifying module (100) may be formed to be elongated in the vertical direction.

[0083] The above humid air may have moisture separated during the process of passing through the interior of the dehumidifying module (100). The humid air may flow through the dehumidifying module (100) in a first direction. The air from which moisture has been separated and dehumidified may be discharged in the first direction, and the separated moisture may be discharged in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction may be perpendicular to each other.

[0084] For example, the moist air introduced from the front of the dehumidifier (10) has moisture separated in the process of passing through the dehumidification module (100) and is then discharged to the rear of the dehumidification device (10), and the separated moisture can flow upward and be discharged inside the dehumidification module (100).

[0085] The above dehumidifying module (100) may be provided in multiple units.

[0086] The above multiple dehumidifying modules (100) are arranged in parallel in the left-right direction and can be connected to each other. For example, four dehumidifying modules (100) can be arranged continuously in the left-right direction to cover the front of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0087] According to this configuration, the moist air introduced into the front of the dehumidifying device (10) can pass through all of the dehumidifying modules (100) without leakage through the space between the adjacent dehumidifying modules (100) and make contact. In this process, the contact surface area between the moist air and the dehumidifying module (100) can be increased. In addition, since the flow loss of the air flowing through the dehumidifying module (100) is minimized, the moisture separation performance can be improved.

[0088] The above multiple dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the front-to-back direction. The above multiple dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in two rows in the front-to-back direction. For example, four dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged on the front side of the dehumidifying device (10), and four dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged on the rear side of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0089] Accordingly, the moisture in the humid air flowing into the front of the dehumidifying device (10) can be first separated from the moisture while passing through a plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) located in the first row corresponding to the front, and secondarily separated from the moisture while passing through a plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) located in the second row corresponding to the rear.

[0090] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include an upper plate (200) coupled to the upper portion of the dehumidifying module (100). The upper plate (200) is coupled to the upper portion of each of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) and functions to fix the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0091] The upper plate (200) may be arranged to cover the upper portions of each of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). The upper plate (200) may be in close contact with each of the upper portions of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). Each of the upper portions of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100) may be in close contact with the inside of the upper plate (200). For example, the upper plate (200) may be formed in a square plate shape.

[0092] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a lower plate (300) coupled to the lower portion of the dehumidifying module (100). The lower plate (300) is coupled to the lower portion of each of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) and functions to fix the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0093] The lower plate (300) may be arranged to cover the entire lower portion of each of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). The lower plate (300) may be in close contact with each lower portion of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). Each lower portion of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100) may be in close contact with the inside of the lower plate (300). For example, the lower plate (300) may be formed in a square plate shape.

[0094] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a vacuum case (400) in which vacuum pressure is applied inside.

[0095] The above vacuum case (400) can move water vapor (moisture) in the air passing through the dehumidifying module (100) into the interior of the dehumidifying module (100) by generating a pressure difference between the inside and the outside by driving a vacuum pump (not shown). The vacuum case (400) can be coupled to the upper plate (200) or the lower plate (300).

[0096] When the above vacuum case (400) is provided on the upper plate (200), the water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (100) can move upward and flow into the interior of the vacuum case (400) through the upper plate (200).

[0097] Conversely, when the vacuum case (400) is provided on the lower plate (300), the water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (100) can move downward and flow into the interior of the vacuum case (400) through the lower plate (300).

[0098] In this embodiment, it is exemplarily explained that the vacuum case (400) is provided on the upper plate (200).

[0099] The vacuum case (400) may be mounted on the upper surface of the upper plate (200). The vacuum case (400) may have an exterior shape corresponding to the shape and size of the upper plate (200). For example, the vacuum case (400) may be formed in a square plate shape with an open lower surface.

[0100] Vacuum pressure is applied to the inside of the above vacuum case (400), and a flow space (401) in which water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (100) flows can be formed.

[0101] The above vacuum case (400) may be provided with a connection port (411) for discharging moisture separated within the dehumidifying module (100). The connection port (411) may be provided on the upper surface of the vacuum case (400).

[0102] A connection pipe (not shown) through which water vapor separated from the dehumidifying module (100) is discharged to the outside may be connected to the above connection port (411). The connection pipe may be connected to the vacuum pump. The connection pipe may be referred to as a "water vapor connection pipe."

[0103] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a support (500) that fixes the upper plate (200), the lower plate (300), and the vacuum case (400).

[0104] The above support (500) can reinforce the vertical support force of the dehumidifier (10). The support (500) can be formed to be long in the vertical direction. The support (500) can be fastened by penetrating through the upper plate (200), the lower plate (300), and the vacuum case (400), respectively.

[0105] The above support (500) may be provided one on each side of the dehumidifying device (10). The above support (500) may be placed between the dehumidifying module (100) located in the first row and the dehumidifying module (100) located in the second row.

[0106] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a fastening member (600) provided on the lower plate (300).

[0107] The above fastening part (600) can fasten and fix the dehumidifying module (100) to the lower plate (300). The fastening part (600) is coupled to a groove formed in the lower plate (300) to fix the fastening part (600) and simultaneously seal the inside of the lower plate (300). The fastening part (600) is coupled to the bottom surface of the lower plate (300) to prevent the internal air of the lower plate (300) from leaking to the outside.

[0108] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 1, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 1.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 10, a dehumidifying device (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be arranged such that a dehumidifying module (100), an upper plate (200), a lower plate (300), and a vacuum case (400) are stacked in a vertical direction.

[0110] A plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) are arranged between the upper plate (200) and the lower plate (300), and the vacuum case (400) can be installed on the upper side of the upper plate (200).

[0111] The above multiple dehumidifying modules (100) are arranged in a parallel manner in the left-right direction in the space between the upper plate (200) and the lower plate (300) and can be connected to each other.

[0112] The direction in which the above-mentioned plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) are arranged can form a direction perpendicular to the direction in which humid air is introduced. For example, four dehumidifying modules (100) can be arranged in a parallel manner in the left-right direction to form the front of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0113] In addition, the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in a parallel manner in the left-right direction, with four dehumidifying modules (100) forming the rear portion of the dehumidifying device (10). That is, the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction. The plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in two rows in the front-back direction. That is, four dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in the front inner side of the dehumidifying device (10), and four dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in the rear inner side of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0114] Accordingly, the moisture in the humid air flowing into the front of the dehumidifying device (10) can be separated primarily by passing through a plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) located in the first row, and can be separated secondarily by passing through a plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) located in the second row.

[0115] The above dehumidifying module (100) may include a dehumidifying member (110) capable of selectively separating moisture from the inhaled air. The dehumidifying member (110) may have a cylindrical shape. The dehumidifying member (110) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a vertical length.

[0116] The above dehumidifying member (110) may include a membrane.

[0117] The above-mentioned dehumidifying member (110) 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."

[0118] The above polymer membrane fibers can be configured to have a diameter of, for example, about 400 to 420 μm.

[0119] The above polymer membrane fiber may be composed of, for example, polysulfone or polypropylene material.

[0120] A coating layer may be provided on the surface of the above polymer membrane fiber to increase the selectivity of moisture in the air. The coating layer may be composed of a polyamide material.

[0121] The above polymer membrane fibers can be provided in multiple strands.

[0122] The above dehumidifying member (110) may further include a packing member (not shown) that surrounds the plurality of polymer film fibers to fix the polymer film fibers composed of the plurality of strands.

[0123] By means of the above packing member, the plurality of polymer membrane fibers can form a bundle. The above bundle of dehumidifying members (110) can form a single dehumidifying member.

[0124] 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 (110) by blocking large dust particles in the air. For example, the packing member may be composed of polypropylene.

[0125] The above dehumidifying module (100) may further include a fixing member (120) for fixing the dehumidifying member (110). The fixing member (120) may be configured to surround at least a portion of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0126] The above fixed part (120) may include an upper frame (121) that supports the upper portion of the dehumidifying member (110), a lower frame (122) that supports the lower portion of the dehumidifying member (110), and a vertical frame (123) that connects the upper frame (121) and the lower frame (121).

[0127] The upper frame (121) may be formed to surround the upper portion of the dehumidifying member (110). The upper frame (121) may be formed to surround the outer circumferential surface of the upper portion of the dehumidifying member (110). The upper frame (121) may be formed in a ring shape.

[0128] The lower frame (122) may be formed to surround the lower portion of the dehumidifying member (110). The lower frame (122) may be formed to surround the outer peripheral surface of the lower portion of the dehumidifying member (110). The lower frame (121) may be formed in a ring shape.

[0129] The upper frame (121) and the lower frame (122) may have the same shape and size. The upper frame (121) and the lower frame (122) may have the same vertical center.

[0130] The vertical frame (123) may extend vertically to the ground to connect the upper frame (121) and the lower frame (122). The vertical frame (123) may connect the lower surface of the upper frame (121) and the upper surface of the lower frame (122). The vertical frame (123) may extend vertically to contact the outer surface of the dehumidifying member (110). The vertical frame (123) may extend from the outer surface of the dehumidifying member (110) in the longitudinal direction of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0131] The above vertical frame (123) may be composed of multiple pieces.

[0132] The vertical frame (123) may include a first vertical frame (123a) that vertically connects one side of the upper frame (121) and one side of the lower frame (122), and a second vertical frame (123b) that vertically connects the other side of the upper frame (121) and the other side of the lower frame (122).

[0133] The first vertical frame (123a) and the second vertical frame (123b) may be spaced apart from each other to face each other. The first vertical frame (123a) and the second vertical frame (123b) may be arranged opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying member (110). Accordingly, the first vertical frame (123a), the second vertical frame (123b), and the dehumidifying member (110) may be connected in a straight line.

[0134] The above-mentioned fixed part (120) may further include a connecting frame (124) connecting the first vertical frame (123a) and the second vertical frame (123b). The connecting frame (124) may wrap around the circumference of the dehumidifying member (110) to provide support to the dehumidifying member (110).

[0135] The above connecting frame (124) may be formed to extend in a circumferential direction based on the vertical center of the dehumidifying member (110). The connecting frame (124) may be formed in a ring shape. The connecting frame (124) may be arranged to surround the outer circumference corresponding to the middle height of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0136] The dehumidifying module (100) may further include a cap (130) that covers both ends of the dehumidifying member (110). The cap (130) may cover both ends of the fixing member (120). The cap (130) may protect both ends of the dehumidifying member (110) and the fixing member (120).

[0137] The above cap (130) may include an upper cap (131) that covers the upper part of the dehumidifying member (110) and a lower cap (132) that covers the lower part of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0138] The upper cap (131) can be coupled to the upper end of the fixing member (120). The upper cap (131) can be arranged to surround the upper frame (121) of the fixing member (120).

[0139] The upper cap (131) may be placed on the lower side of the upper plate (200). The upper cap (131) may be in contact with the inner surface of the upper plate (200).

[0140] For example, the upper cap (131) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open lower surface. At least a portion of the upper frame (121) may be inserted into the inner side of the upper cap (131). When the upper frame (121) is inserted into the inner side of the upper cap (131), the upper end of the dehumidifying member (110) may be accommodated in the inner space (131a) of the upper cap (131).

[0141] A cap hole (131b) through which moisture (water vapor) separated from the dehumidifying member (110) flows can be formed in the upper cap (131).

[0142] The cap hole (131b) may be formed by penetrating downward from the upper surface of the upper cap (131). The cap hole (131b) may be connected to the internal space (131a) of the upper cap (131). The cap hole (131b) may be arranged at the center of the upper surface of the upper cap (131).

[0143] Moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) moves to the internal space (131a) of the upper cap (131) due to the pressure difference, and the moisture in the internal space (131a) can move to the vacuum case (400) through the cap hole (131a).

[0144] The lower cap (132) can be coupled to the lower end of the fixing member (120). The lower cap (132) can be arranged to surround the lower frame (122) of the fixing member (120).

[0145] The lower cap (132) may be placed on the upper side of the lower plate (300). The lower cap (132) may be supported by being seated on the inner surface of the lower plate (300).

[0146] For example, the lower cap (132) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface. At least a portion of the lower frame (122) may be inserted into the inside of the lower cap (132). When the lower frame (122) is inserted into the inside of the lower cap (132), the lower end of the dehumidifying member (110) may be accommodated in the internal space (132a) of the lower cap (132).

[0147] A fastening hole (132b) to which the fastening part (600) is fastened can be formed in the lower cap (132).

[0148] The above fastening hole (132b) may be formed by penetrating upward from the lower surface of the lower cap (132). The fastening hole (132b) may be connected to the internal space (132a) of the lower cap (132). The fastening hole (132b) may be arranged at the center of the lower surface of the lower cap (132).

[0149] When the fastening part (600) is coupled to the fastening hole (132b), the fastening hole (132b) is shielded by the fastening part (600), and the internal space (132a) of the lower cap (132) can be sealed. The lower cap (132) can be firmly fixed to the lower plate (300) by the fastening part (600).

[0150] The upper plate (200) can be coupled to the upper portion of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100). The upper plate (200) can be in close contact with the upper portion of each of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0151] The upper plate (200) may include a square-shaped plate portion (210) and an edge portion (220) extending downward from the edge of the plate portion (210).

[0152] The above plate portion (210) covers the upper portion of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100), and the edge portion (220) can cover a portion of the side surface of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0153] The plate portion (210) may be arranged to cover the upper surface of the upper cap (131), and the edge portion (220) may be arranged to surround a portion of the side surface (outer surface) of the upper cap (131). The edge portion (220) may hold the upper ends of each of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100), thereby preventing the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) from spreading or tilting.

[0154] The upper plate (200) may be formed with a passage hole (211) through which moisture introduced through the cap hole (131b) passes. The passage hole (211) may be positioned above the cap hole (131b). The passage hole (211) may face the cap hole (131b).

[0155] The above-mentioned passage hole (211) may be formed by penetrating from the upper surface to the lower side of the plate portion (210). The passage hole (211) may be configured in multiple numbers. The passage hole (211) may be formed at a point corresponding to each cap hole (131b) of the multiple dehumidifying modules (100).

[0156] A through hole (212) through which the support (500) passes may be formed in the upper plate (200). The through hole (212) may be formed on each of the two sides of the edge of the upper plate portion (200).

[0157] The lower plate (300) can be coupled to the lower portion of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100). The lower plate (300) can be in close contact with the lower portion of each of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0158] The lower portions of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) can be inserted and supported inside the lower plate (300). The lower plate (300) can be formed in a square plate shape.

[0159] A mounting groove (310) may be formed in the lower plate (300) to accommodate the lower portion of the dehumidifying module (100). The lower cap (132) of the dehumidifying module (100) may be accommodated in the mounting groove (310).

[0160] The above mounting groove (310) may be formed by recessing downward from the upper surface of the lower plate (300). The above mounting grooves (310) may be formed in multiple numbers. The above mounting grooves (310) may be formed at points corresponding to the lower ends of each of the multiple dehumidifying modules (100). The above multiple mounting grooves (310) may be connected to each other.

[0161] A mounting hole (311) for fastening the fixing member (120) may be formed in the lower plate (300). The mounting hole (311) may be understood as a hole for fastening the lower cap (132) of the fixing member (120) by the fastening member (600).

[0162] The above mounting hole (311) may be formed by penetrating from the bottom surface of the mounting groove (310) to the lower side. The above mounting hole (311) may be formed at the center of the bottom surface of the mounting groove (310).

[0163] The fastening part (600) can be coupled to the above-mentioned mounting hole (311). The fastening part (600) can be coupled to the mounting hole (311) and then fastened to the fastening hole (132b) of the lower cap (132). The fastening part (600) can be coupled from the lower side to the upper side of the lower plate (300).

[0164] By combining the fastening member (600) with the mounting hole (311), the dehumidifying module (100) is fixed to the lower plate (300), and the interior of the lower plate (300) can be sealed.

[0165] A through hole (312) through which the support (500) passes may be formed in the lower plate (300). The through hole (312) may be formed on each of the two sides of the edge of the lower plate (300).

[0166] The vacuum case (400) is placed on top of the upper plate (300), and vacuum pressure can be applied inside. The vacuum case (400) can be supported by being placed on the upper edge of the upper surface of the upper plate (300).

[0167] The vacuum case (400) may be formed in the shape of a box cover with an open bottom. The vacuum case (400) may include a square plate portion (410) and an edge portion (420) extending downward along the edge of the plate portion (410).

[0168] The plate portion (410) may form the upper surface of the vacuum case (400), and the edge portion (420) may form the side surface of the vacuum case (400). The plate portion (410) may be formed to have a size corresponding to the upper surface of the upper plate (200). The lower portion of the edge portion (420) may be supported by being seated on the upper edge of the upper plate (200).

[0169] A flow space (401) in which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) flows may be formed inside the vacuum case (400). The flow space (401) may be connected to a plurality of passage holes (211) of the upper plate (200).

[0170] The vacuum case (400) may be provided with a connection port (411) for discharging moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) to the outside. The connection port (411) may be formed on the upper surface of the vacuum case (400). The connection port (411) may be formed in a protruding or recessed shape on the upper surface of the vacuum case (400). The connection port (411) may be in communication with the flow space (401). The connection port (411) may be formed at the center of the upper surface of the plate portion (410).

[0171] A connecting tube connected to the vacuum pump can be inserted into the connecting port (411). When the vacuum pump is operated with the connecting tube inserted into the connecting port (411), a pressure difference occurs between the inside and outside of the flow space (401), and moisture (water vapor) in the air passing through the dehumidifying member (110) can be moved to the upper side of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0172] Moisture moved to the upper side of the dehumidifying member (110) can be moved to the flow space (401) through the cap hole (211) and then moved to the vacuum pump side through the connection port (411).

[0173] The vacuum case (400) may have a through hole (412) through which the support (500) passes. The through hole (412) may be formed on each of the two sides of the edge of the vacuum case (400).

[0174] Figure 11 is a drawing showing the direction of air flow in a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0175] Referring to Fig. 11, the dehumidifying device (10) can be connected to a fan and a vacuum pump.

[0176] For example, the dehumidifying device (10) may be installed inside a dehumidifier, air conditioner, or air circulation device equipped with a fan and a vacuum pump. The dehumidifying device (10) may generate air flow by driving the fan. The dehumidifying device (10) may be placed on the suction side of the fan.

[0177] The above dehumidifying device (10) can be fluidly connected to the vacuum pump. For example, a connection pipe connected to the vacuum pump can be connected to a connection port (411) of the vacuum case (400).

[0178] The dehumidifier (10) may be covered on both sides. For example, the dehumidifier (10) may be covered on both sides by having separate housings (20) disposed on each side of the dehumidifier (10). With this configuration, air flow may occur in which air is sucked in through the front of the dehumidifier (10) and discharged through the rear of the dehumidifier (10).

[0179] When the above fan is driven, moist air can be sucked in a direction intersecting the front surface of the dehumidifying module (100). The moist air sucked in the front surface of the dehumidifying module (100) can pass in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (front-back direction) in which the plurality of dehumidifying members (110) extend.

[0180] When the vacuum pump is operated, a negative pressure lower than the external pressure may be formed inside the dehumidifying member (110). As the humid air passes through the dehumidifying member (110), moisture contained in the air may come into contact with the surface of the dehumidifying member (110) and be adsorbed. Then, the adsorbed moisture may diffuse and then be desorbed from the surface, thereby being selectively separated from the humid air.

[0181] The separated moisture flows upward within the dehumidifying member (110) and can flow into the internal space (131a) of the upper cap (131). That is, the flow direction (upward) of the separated moisture (dotted arrow in FIG. 11) can form a direction perpendicular to the flow direction (front-back direction) of the air (solid arrow in FIG. 11).

[0182] Moisture that has flowed into the interior of the upper cap (131) can pass through the passage hole (211) of the upper plate (200) and flow into the flow space (401) of the vacuum case (400). The moisture that has flowed into the flow space (401) can be discharged toward the vacuum pump side through the connection port (411). Dry air from which moisture has been removed by passing through the dehumidifying member (110) can be discharged to the rear of the dehumidifying device (10).

Claims

1. A dehumidifying module including a dehumidifying member having a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture in humid air; An upper plate placed on the upper side of the above dehumidifying module; A lower plate placed on the lower side of the above dehumidifying module; and A vacuum case is provided which is connected to the upper plate or the lower plate and has a connection port for discharging moisture separated within the dehumidifying member. A dehumidifying device in which the first direction of the moist air flowing into the dehumidifying member is configured perpendicular to the second direction in which the moisture separated within the dehumidifying member flows.

2. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device in which the above dehumidifying member has a length extending vertically between the upper plate and the lower plate.

3. In paragraph 2, A dehumidifying device in which the above dehumidifying modules are provided in a plurality, and a third direction in which the above dehumidifying modules are arranged is configured to be perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

4. In paragraph 1, A dehumidifying device wherein the above dehumidifying module further includes a fixing member surrounding at least a portion of the above dehumidifying member.

5. In paragraph 4, A dehumidifying device in which the above dehumidifying modules are provided in multiple units, and each fixing part of the adjacent dehumidifying modules among the multiple dehumidifying modules is connected to each other.

6. In paragraph 4, The above fixed part, An upper frame supporting the upper portion of the above dehumidifying member; A lower frame supporting the lower portion of the above dehumidifying member; and A dehumidifier comprising a vertical frame connecting the upper frame and the lower frame.

7. In paragraph 6, A dehumidifying device in which the upper frame and the lower frame are formed in a ring shape to surround the outer surface of the dehumidifying member.

8. In paragraph 7, The above vertical frame is a dehumidifying device that connects the lower surface of the upper frame and the upper surface of the lower frame.

9. In paragraph 8, The above vertical frame, A first vertical frame connecting one side of the lower surface of the upper frame and one side of the upper surface of the lower frame; and A dehumidifying device including a second vertical frame connecting the lower surface of the upper frame and the upper surface of the lower frame.

10. In paragraph 9, A dehumidifying device in which the first vertical frame and the second vertical frame are positioned opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying member.

11. In paragraph 9, A dehumidifying device further comprising a connecting frame extending along the circumferential direction of the dehumidifying member and connecting the first vertical frame and the second vertical frame.

12. In paragraph 4, The above dehumidifying module further includes a cap covering both ends of the fixed part, The above cap is, An upper cap coupled to the upper part of the above fixed part and connected to the upper plate; and A dehumidifier comprising a lower cap coupled to the lower portion of the above-mentioned fixed part and connected to the lower plate.

13. In paragraph 12, The above vacuum case is placed on the upper side of the upper plate, An internal space is formed in the upper cap through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member passes. A dehumidifying device in which a passage hole is formed in the upper plate to guide moisture in the internal space into the interior of the vacuum case.

14. In paragraph 12, A dehumidifier having a mounting groove formed on the lower plate to accommodate the lower portion of the fixed part.

15. In paragraph 14, A dehumidifier in which a mounting hole is formed in the above mounting groove for attaching the above fixing part by a fastening part.

16. In paragraph 1, A flow space is formed inside the vacuum case in which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member flows. A dehumidifier in which a connecting pipe extending from a vacuum pump is connected to the above connecting port.

17. A dehumidifying module including a dehumidifying member that extends vertically and separates moisture from humid air, and a fixing member that surrounds the outer surface of the dehumidifying member; An upper plate placed on the upper side of the above dehumidifying module; A lower plate placed on the lower side of the above dehumidifying module; and A vacuum case is provided which is connected to the upper plate or the lower plate and has a connection port for discharging moisture separated within the dehumidifying member. The above dehumidifying module is composed of a plurality of dehumidifying modules, and the direction in which the plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged forms a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the dehumidifying member, A dehumidifying device in which the fixed parts of adjacent dehumidifying modules among the above multiple dehumidifying modules are connected to each other.

18. In paragraph 17, The above fixed part, An upper frame supporting the upper portion of the above dehumidifying member; A lower frame supporting the lower portion of the above dehumidifying member; and Includes a vertical frame connecting the upper frame and the lower frame, A dehumidifying device in which each vertical frame of adjacent dehumidifying modules among the above multiple dehumidifying modules is connected to each other.

19. In paragraph 18, The above vertical frame, A first vertical frame connecting one side of the lower surface of the upper frame and one side of the upper surface of the lower frame; and It includes a second vertical frame connecting the lower surface of the upper frame and the upper surface of the lower frame, A dehumidifying device in which the first vertical frame and the second vertical frame are positioned opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying member.

20. In paragraph 19, The above fixed part further includes a connecting frame extending along the circumferential direction of the dehumidifying member and connecting the first vertical frame and the second vertical frame, A dehumidifying device in which each connecting frame of adjacent dehumidifying modules among the above multiple dehumidifying modules is connected to each other.

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