Dehumidifier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dehumidifier. The dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of dehumidification modules comprising dehumidification members for separating moisture from the moist air; an upper housing on top of the plurality of dehumidification modules; a lower housing disposed at the bottom of the plurality of dehumidification modules; and flow guides disposed between the upper and lower housings to cover both sides of the plurality of dehumidification modules, and parts of the flow guides may protrude into the gaps between the adjacent dehumidification modules from among the plurality thereof.

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 capable of increasing the dehumidification amount by increasing the residence time of air passing through a dehumidifying module.

[0027] A dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of dehumidifying modules including a dehumidifying member having a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture in humid air, an upper housing disposed above the plurality of dehumidifying modules, a lower housing disposed below the plurality of dehumidifying modules, and a flow guide disposed between the upper housing and the lower housing to cover both sides of the plurality of dehumidifying modules.

[0028] A portion of the above euro guide may protrude into a space between adjacent dehumidification modules among the plurality of dehumidification modules.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The above dehumidifying member may have a length extending in the second direction between the upper housing and the lower housing.

[0031] The above-mentioned euro guide may include a guide plate spaced apart from each side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules and a protrusion protruding from the inside of the guide plate toward the dehumidifying module.

[0032] The above protrusion can extend in the second direction from the inner surface of the above guide plate.

[0033] The above protrusions are provided in multiple numbers, and some of the multiple dehumidifying modules can be arranged between the multiple protrusions.

[0034] The above-mentioned euro guide may include a first euro guide covering one side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules and a second euro guide covering the other side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules.

[0035] The above first euro guide and the above second euro guide can be arranged opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying module.

[0036] An air path through which air flows can be formed between the first and second flow guides.

[0037] In the above air passage, the plurality of dehumidifying modules can be arranged in a zigzag shape.

[0038] The above dehumidifying module may further include a cap coupled to an end of the dehumidifying member.

[0039] The above cap may have an internal space formed through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member passes.

[0040] The cap may have a cap hole formed therein to guide moisture in the internal space into the interior of the upper housing or the lower housing.

[0041] An upper hole into which the dehumidifying module is inserted can be formed in the upper housing.

[0042] The internal space of the above cap can be communicated with the fluid space of the upper housing through the cap hole.

[0043] The upper housing may be provided with a connection port for discharging moisture in the fluid space to the outside.

[0044] The upper housing may include an upper plate forming a lower surface and an upper extension extending upwardly along an edge of the upper plate.

[0045] The upper hole may be formed in the upper plate.

[0046] The above dehumidifying device may further include an upper cover coupled to cover the open upper surface of the upper housing.

[0047] A lower hole into which the dehumidifying module is inserted can be formed in the lower housing.

[0048] The internal space of the above cap can be communicated with the fluid space of the lower housing through the cap hole.

[0049] The above lower housing may be provided with a connection port for discharging moisture in the fluid space to the outside.

[0050] The lower housing may include a lower plate forming an upper surface and a lower extension extending downwardly along an edge of the lower plate.

[0051] The above lower hole can be formed in the lower plate.

[0052] The dehumidifier may further include a lower cover coupled to cover the open lower surface of the lower housing.

[0053] The upper housing or the lower housing may be provided with a connection port for discharging moisture separated within the dehumidifying member.

[0054] A flow space in which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member flows can be formed inside the upper housing or the lower housing.

[0055] A connecting pipe extending from a vacuum pump can be connected to the above connecting port.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an upper housing and a lower housing supporting a plurality of dehumidifying modules are provided, so that a plurality of dehumidifying modules can be stably supported.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged in a zigzag shape, and flow guides for forming turbulence are provided on both sides of the dehumidifying modules, so that the residence time of air passing through the dehumidifying modules is increased, thereby improving the dehumidification amount.

[0062] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a dehumidification module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a potting portion of a dehumidifying member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 4.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the configuration of a dehumidifier with the upper housing and upper cover removed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 8 is a drawing showing the flow direction of air and moisture in a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a dehumidifying module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a potting portion of a dehumidifying member according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4, and FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the configuration of a dehumidifying device with the upper housing and upper cover removed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, 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.

[0075] Define the direction.

[0076] With reference to Fig. 1, the direction in which the front part of the dehumidification module (100) is exposed to the outside is defined as the front, and the direction in which the rear part of the dehumidification module (100) is exposed to the outside is defined as the rear. The front-back direction may be referred to as the "first direction."

[0077] 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.”

[0078] Based on Fig. 1, the direction in which a pair of euro guides (400, 500) face outward is defined as the lateral or left-right direction. The lateral direction may be referred to as the "third direction."

[0079] The above dehumidifier (10) may have a shape in which the front and back are open and both sides are shielded. Humid air may be introduced through the front of the dehumidifier (10) and discharged through the back.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The above dehumidifying module (100) may be configured in multiple units. The multiple dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged spaced apart from each other inside the dehumidifying device (10). The multiple dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the front-back direction and left-right direction. For example, the multiple dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in a grid shape. The multiple dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in a zigzag shape.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 downward and be discharged inside the dehumidification module (100).

[0084] 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.

[0085] The above dehumidifying member (110) may include a membrane.

[0086] 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."

[0087] The above polymer membrane fibers can be configured to have a diameter of, for example, about 400 to 420 μm.

[0088] The above polymer membrane fiber may be composed of, for example, polysulfone or polypropylene material.

[0089] 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.

[0090] The above polymer membrane fibers can be provided in multiple strands.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] The above dehumidifying module (100) may further include a potting part (111) configured by a potting method to fix the above dehumidifying member (110).

[0095] The above potting part (111) may be configured to be filled and hardened in a liquid form inside the potting cap (112) to fix the position of the dehumidifying member (110). For example, the above potting part (111) may be configured of a urethane or epoxy material.

[0096] The above potting part (111) may include a first potting part for fixing one end of the dehumidifying member (110) and a second potting part for fixing the other end.

[0097] The above potting cap (112) may include a first cap provided on the upper side of the dehumidifying member (110) and a second cap provided on the lower side.

[0098] The first potting portion may be arranged inside the first cap. The second potting portion may be arranged inside the second cap. A potting space may be formed inside the potting cap (112) so that the potting portion (111) may be arranged. An end of the dehumidifying member (110) fixed by the potting portion (111) may be exposed to the outside of the potting cap (112).

[0099] The above dehumidifying module (100) may further include a cap (120, 130) that covers both ends of the dehumidifying member (110). The cap (120, 130) may cover the potting cap (112). The cap (120, 130) may protect both ends of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0100] The above cap (120, 130) may include an upper cap (120) that covers the upper part of the dehumidifying member (110) and a lower cap (130) that covers the lower part of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0101] The upper cap (120) may be coupled to the upper end of the dehumidifying member (110). The upper cap (120) may be positioned to surround the potting cap. For example, the upper cap (120) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open lower surface.

[0102] An internal space (121) in which moisture (water vapor) dehumidified by the dehumidifying member (110) flows may be formed on the inside of the upper cap (120). The internal space (121) may be connected to an end of the dehumidifying member (110). When the upper cap (120) is coupled to an end of the dehumidifying member (110), the end of the dehumidifying member (110) may be positioned in the internal space (121) of the upper cap (120).

[0103] A cap hole (122) through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) passes may be formed in the upper cap (120).

[0104] The cap hole (122) may be formed by penetrating downward from the upper surface of the upper cap (120). The cap hole (122) may be connected to the internal space (121) of the upper cap (120). The cap hole (122) may be arranged at the center of the upper surface of the upper cap (120).

[0105] Moisture separated from the above dehumidifying member (110) moves to the internal space (121) of the upper cap (120) due to the pressure difference, and the moisture in the internal space (121) can move to the upper housing (200) through the cap hole (122).

[0106] The upper cap (120) may be formed with a coupling portion (123) for coupling to the upper housing (200). The coupling portion (123) may be provided on the outside of the upper cap (120).

[0107] For example, the connecting portion (123) may be formed by recessing a portion of the outer surface of the upper cap (120). The connecting portion (123) may be formed by recessing radially inward from the outer surface of the upper cap (120). The connecting portion (123) may be inserted into and fixed to the upper hole (211) of the upper housing (200).

[0108] The above-mentioned connecting portions (123) may be formed in multiple numbers spaced apart from each other on the outer surface of the upper cap (120). The multiple connecting portions (123) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction along the outer surface of the upper cap (120). The multiple connecting portions (123) may be arranged opposite each other with respect to the center of the upper cap (120).

[0109] The lower cap (130) may be coupled to the lower end of the dehumidifying member (110). The lower cap (130) may be positioned to surround the potting cap. For example, the lower cap (130) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface.

[0110] The lower cap (130) may have the same shape and size as the upper cap (120). The lower cap (130) may be formed symmetrically vertically with the upper cap (120).

[0111] An internal space (131) in which moisture (water vapor) dehumidified by the dehumidifying member (110) flows may be formed on the inside of the lower cap (130). The internal space (131) may be connected to an end of the dehumidifying member (110). When the lower cap (130) is coupled to an end of the dehumidifying member (110), the end of the dehumidifying member (110) may be positioned in the internal space (131) of the lower cap (130).

[0112] A cap hole (132) through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) passes may be formed in the lower cap (130).

[0113] The cap hole (132) may be formed by penetrating upward from the lower surface of the lower cap (130). The cap hole (132) may be connected to the internal space (131) of the lower cap (130). The cap hole (132) may be arranged at the center of the lower surface of the lower cap (130).

[0114] Moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) moves to the internal space (131) of the lower cap (130) due to the pressure difference, and the moisture in the internal space (131) can move to the lower housing (300) through the cap hole (132).

[0115] The lower cap (130) may be formed with a coupling portion (133) for coupling to the lower housing (300). The coupling portion (133) may be provided on the outside of the lower cap (130).

[0116] For example, the connecting portion (133) may be formed by recessing a portion of the outer surface of the lower cap (130). The connecting portion (133) may be formed by recessing radially inward from the outer surface of the lower cap (130). The connecting portion (133) may be inserted into and fixed to the insertion hole (311) of the lower housing (300).

[0117] The above-mentioned connecting portions (133) may be formed in multiple numbers spaced apart from each other on the outer surface of the lower cap (130). The multiple connecting portions (133) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction along the outer surface of the lower cap (130). The multiple connecting portions (133) may be arranged opposite each other with respect to the center of the lower cap (130).

[0118] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include an upper housing (200) coupled to the upper portion of the dehumidifying module (100).

[0119] The upper housing (200) is coupled to the upper portion of each of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100) and functions to fix the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). The upper housing (200) can be inserted into the upper portion of each of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100).

[0120] The upper housing (200) may include an upper plate (210) and an upper extension (220) extending upward from an edge of the upper plate (210).

[0121] The upper plate (210) may have, for example, a square shape. The upper plate (210) may have an area that can cover the entire upper portion of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0122] The upper housing (200) may include an upper hole (211) into which a portion of the dehumidifying module (100) is inserted. The upper hole (211) may be formed in the upper plate (210). The upper hole (211) may form a passage through which moisture introduced through the cap hole (122) of the upper cap (120) passes.

[0123] The upper hole (211) may be formed by penetrating at least a portion of the upper plate (210). The upper hole (211) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the upper shape of the upper cap (120).

[0124] The connecting portion (123) of the upper cap (120) can be inserted into the upper hole (211). When the connecting portion (123) of the upper cap (120) is inserted into the upper hole (211), the upper plate (210) can be secured to and supported by the connecting portion (123). The number of the upper holes (211) can correspond to the number of the dehumidifying modules (100).

[0125] A flow space (201) in which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) flows may be formed inside the upper housing (200). The flow space (201) may be connected to the upper hole (211).

[0126] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include an upper cover (250) coupled to the upper portion of the upper housing (200).

[0127] The upper cover (250) may cover the open upper surface of the upper housing (200). The upper cover (250) may have a square plate shape. The upper cover (250) may be coupled to the upper portion of the upper housing (200) to seal the flow space (201) of the upper housing (200).

[0128] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a lower housing (300) coupled to the lower portion of the dehumidifying module (100). The lower housing (300) may have a shape corresponding to that of the upper housing (200).

[0129] The lower housing (300) is coupled to the lower portion of each of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100) and functions to fix the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). The lower housing (300) can be inserted into the lower portion of each of the plurality of dehumidification modules (100).

[0130] The lower housing (300) may include a lower plate (310) and a lower extension (320) extending downward from an edge of the lower plate (310).

[0131] The lower plate (310) may have, for example, a square shape. The lower plate (310) may have an area that can cover the entire lower portion of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0132] The lower housing (300) may include a lower hole (311) into which a portion of the dehumidifying module (100) is inserted. The lower hole (311) may be formed in the lower plate (310). The lower hole (311) may form a passage through which moisture introduced through the cap hole (132) of the lower cap (130) passes.

[0133] The lower hole (311) may be formed by penetrating at least a portion of the lower plate (310). The lower hole (311) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the lower shape of the lower cap (130).

[0134] The connecting portion (133) of the lower cap (130) can be inserted into the lower hole (311). When the connecting portion (133) of the lower cap (130) is inserted into the lower hole (311), the lower plate (310) can be secured to and supported by the connecting portion (133). The number of the lower holes (311) can correspond to the number of the dehumidifying modules (100).

[0135] A flow space (301) in which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) flows may be formed inside the lower housing (300). The flow space (301) may be connected to the lower hole (311).

[0136] The lower housing (300) may be provided with a connection port (312) for discharging moisture separated from the dehumidifying member (110) to the outside.

[0137] The above connection port (312) may be formed on the side of the lower housing (300). The connection port (312) may be formed in a protruding or recessed shape on the side of the lower housing (300). The connection port (312) may be in communication with the flow space (301). For example, the connection port (312) may be formed by a portion of the lower extension (320) penetrating through it.

[0138] A connecting tube connected to a vacuum pump can be inserted into the above connection port (312). When the vacuum pump is operated while the connecting tube is inserted into the above connection port (312), a pressure difference occurs between the outside and inside of the dehumidifying member (110), and moisture (water vapor) in the air passing through the dehumidifying member (110) can be moved to the lower side of the dehumidifying member (110).

[0139] Moisture moved to the lower side of the dehumidifying member (110) can move to the flow space (301) through the cap hole (132) of the lower cap (130) and then move to the vacuum pump side through the connection port (312).

[0140] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a lower cover (350) coupled to the lower portion of the lower housing (300).

[0141] The lower cover (350) may cover the open lower surface of the lower housing (300). The lower cover (350) may have a square plate shape. The lower cover (350) may be coupled to the lower portion of the lower housing (300) to seal the flow space (301) of the lower housing (300).

[0142] In this embodiment, the connection port (312) is exemplarily described as being provided in the lower housing (300). However, this is not limited to the present invention, and the connection port (312) may be provided in the upper housing (200) instead of the lower housing (300).

[0143] In this case, the connection port (312) is provided on the side of the upper housing (200), and moisture (water vapor) in the air passing through the dehumidifying member (110) can move to the upper side of the dehumidifying member (110) and move toward the upper housing (200) through the cap hole (122) of the upper cap (120).

[0144] The above dehumidifying device (10) may further include a flow guide (400, 500) arranged on one side of the dehumidifying module (100) to form an air flow path (401).

[0145] The above-mentioned flow guide (400, 500) may be arranged between the upper housing (200) and the lower housing (300). The flow guide (400, 500) may be erected on the upper surface of the lower housing (300) to form a side appearance of the dehumidifying device (10). The flow guide (400, 500) may be arranged on both sides of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) to cover both sides of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0146] The above-mentioned euro guide (400, 500) may include a first euro guide (400) covering one side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) and a second euro guide (500) covering the other side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100).

[0147] An air path (401) through which air flows may be formed between the first flow guide (400) and the second flow guide (500). The first flow guide (400) and the second flow guide (500) may be arranged to face each other. A plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged on the air path (401).

[0148] Accordingly, the wet air flowing into the front of the dehumidifying device (10) has its moisture separated while passing through the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) arranged on the air passage (401), and the dehumidified dry air can be discharged to the rear of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0149] The first flow guide (400) and the second flow guide (500) may have the same shape. The first flow guide (400) and the second flow guide (500) may each include a guide plate (410, 510) and a protrusion protruding from the guide plate (410, 510) toward the dehumidifying module (100).

[0150] The above guide plate (410, 510) may have a rectangular plate shape that is vertically erected. The above guide plate (410, 510) may include an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface of the above guide plate (410, 510) may be formed as a plane, and the inner surface of the above guide plate (410, 510) may be formed as a curved surface.

[0151] At least a portion of the inner surface of the guide plate (410, 510) may be formed to be round or inclined. Accordingly, the air flowing through the air passage (401) may have its flow direction changed along the inner surface of the guide plate (410, 510).

[0152] The above protrusion is arranged adjacent to the dehumidifying module (100) and functions to form a turbulent flow on the air flow path (401). The protrusion may protrude from the inner surface of the guide plate (410, 510) in a direction toward the dehumidifying module (100). The protrusion may extend in a vertical direction from the inner surface of the guide plate (410, 510). The protrusion may extend from the upper end to the lower end of the guide plate (410, 510).

[0153] The above protrusions may be composed of multiple pieces. The protrusions may include a first protrusion (420, 520) and a second protrusion (430, 530) spaced apart from the first protrusion.

[0154] The first protrusion (420, 520) and the second protrusion (430, 530) may be spaced apart in the front-back direction on the inner surface of the guide plate (410, 510). That is, the first protrusion (420, 520) and the second protrusion (430, 530) may be spaced apart along the flow direction of air flowing in the air passage (401). The first protrusion (420, 520) and the second protrusion (430, 530) may have the same protrusion length.

[0155] The inner surface of the above-mentioned euro guide (400, 500) may include a first inner surface (411, 511) corresponding to the front of the first protrusion (420, 520), a second inner surface (412, 512) corresponding between the first protrusion (420, 520) and the second protrusion (430, 530), and a third inner surface (413, 513) corresponding to the rear of the second protrusion (430, 530).

[0156] The first inner surface (411, 511), the first protrusion (420, 520), the second inner surface (412, 512), the second protrusion (430, 530), and the third inner surface (413, 513) can be connected to each other. Therefore, some of the air flowing into the air passage (401) can be guided and discharged along the first inner surface (411, 511), the first protrusion (420, 520), the second inner surface (412, 512), the second protrusion (430, 530), and the third inner surface (413, 513).

[0157] The first flow guide (400) and the second flow guide (500) may be arranged on the upper edge of the lower housing (300). The first flow guide (400) may be arranged on the upper left edge of the lower housing (300), and the second flow guide (500) may be arranged on the upper right edge of the lower housing (300).

[0158] The first flow guide (400) may be arranged on the left side of the dehumidifying module (100) to form the left side of the dehumidifying device (10), and the second flow guide (500) may be arranged on the right side of the dehumidifying module (100) to form the right side of the dehumidifying device (10).

[0159] In this embodiment, the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) may be arranged in a zigzag shape in the space between the first flow guide (400) and the second flow guide (500), i.e., on the air flow path (401).

[0160] The first flow guide (400) may be positioned adjacent to a dehumidification module (100) corresponding to the left edge among the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). Accordingly, a gap of a certain distance may be formed between the inner surface of the first flow guide (400) and the plurality of dehumidification modules (100).

[0161] Some of the dehumidification modules (100) among the plurality of dehumidification modules may be arranged adjacent to the first protrusion (420, 520) and the second protrusion (430, 530). The flow guide (400, 500) may protrude into the space between adjacent dehumidification modules among the plurality of dehumidification modules (100). That is, some of the dehumidification modules among the plurality of dehumidification modules (100) may be arranged in the space between the first protrusion (420, 520) and the second protrusion (430, 530).

[0162] According to this configuration, the air introduced to the front of the dehumidifying device (10) can come into contact with the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) and the air flow guides (400, 500) while flowing through the air flow path (401).

[0163] In particular, some of the introduced air may generate a wake flow while passing between the dehumidifying module (100) and the flow path guide (400, 500), resulting in the formation of turbulence. As the intensity of the turbulence increases, the residence time of the air remaining on the air path (401) increases, and accordingly, the flow rate of the air coming into contact with the dehumidifying member (110) increases, thereby increasing the dehumidification amount.

[0164] Specifically, turbulence is formed in the process of air passing through the space between the first inner surface (411, 511) of the euro guide (400, 500) and the dehumidifying module (100), and turbulence may be formed in the process of air passing through the space between the first protrusion (420, 520) of the euro guide (400, 500) and the dehumidifying module (100).

[0165] In addition, turbulence may be formed in the process of air passing through the space between the second inner surface (412, 512) of the euro guide (400, 500) and the dehumidifying module (110), and turbulence may be formed in the process of air passing through the space between the second protrusion (430, 530) of the euro guide (400, 500) and the dehumidifying module (100).

[0166] In addition, since the plurality of dehumidifying modules (100) are arranged in a zigzag shape with each other staggered, turbulence is formed in the process of air passing through the space between the adjacent dehumidifying modules (100), and accordingly, the flow rate of air coming into contact with the dehumidifying member (110) increases, so that the dehumidification amount can increase.

[0167] Figure 8 is a drawing showing the flow direction of air and moisture in a dehumidifying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] Referring to Fig. 8, the dehumidifying device (10) can be connected to a fan and a vacuum pump.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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 (312) of the lower housing (300).

[0171] The above dehumidifier (10) can be covered on both sides by the pair of euro guides (400, 500). Accordingly, air flow can occur in which air is sucked in through the front of the dehumidifier (10) and discharged through the rear of the dehumidifier (10).

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] The separated moisture flows downward within the dehumidifying member (110) and can flow into the internal space (131) of the lower cap (130). That is, the flow direction (downward) of the separated moisture (dotted arrow in FIG. 8) can form a direction perpendicular to the flow direction (front-back direction) of the air (solid arrow in FIG. 8).

[0175] Moisture that has flowed into the upper cap (130) can pass through the cap hole (132) of the upper cap (130) and flow into the flow space (301) of the lower housing (300). The moisture that has flowed into the flow space (301) can be discharged toward the vacuum pump through the connection port (312). 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 plurality of dehumidifying modules including a dehumidifying member having a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture in humid air; An upper housing arranged on the upper side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules; A lower housing arranged on the lower side of the above plurality of dehumidifying modules; and A euro guide is disposed between the upper housing and the lower housing and covers both sides of the plurality of dehumidifying modules, A dehumidifying device in which a portion of the above-mentioned euro guide protrudes into the space between adjacent dehumidifying modules among the plurality of dehumidifying modules.

2. In paragraph 1, 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.

3. In paragraph 2, A dehumidifying device in which the above dehumidifying member has a length extending in the second direction between the upper housing and the lower housing.

4. In paragraph 3, The above Euroguide is, Guide plates spaced apart on each side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules; and A dehumidifying device including a protrusion protruding from the inner side of the guide plate toward the dehumidifying module.

5. In paragraph 4, A dehumidifying device in which the protrusion extends in the second direction from the inner surface of the guide plate.

6. In paragraph 5, The above protrusions are provided in multiple pieces, A dehumidifying device in which some of the plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged between the plurality of protrusions.

7. In paragraph 1, The above Euroguide is, A first euro guide covering one side of the above plurality of dehumidifying modules; and Including a second flow guide covering the other side of the above multiple dehumidifying modules, A dehumidifying device in which the first euro guide and the second euro guide are positioned opposite each other with respect to the dehumidifying module.

8. In paragraph 7, An air path through which air flows is formed between the first and second euro guides. A dehumidifying device in which the plurality of dehumidifying modules are arranged in a zigzag shape in the above air passage.

9. In paragraph 1, The above dehumidifying module further includes a cap coupled to an end of the dehumidifying member, A dehumidifying device in which an internal space is formed in the cap through which moisture separated from the dehumidifying member passes.

10. In paragraph 9, A dehumidifier in which a cap hole is formed in the cap to guide moisture in the internal space into the interior of the upper housing or the lower housing.

11. In paragraph 10, An upper hole into which the dehumidifying module is inserted is formed in the upper housing. A dehumidifying device in which the internal space of the above cap is connected to the fluid space of the upper housing through the above cap hole.

12. In paragraph 11, A dehumidifier having a connection port provided in the upper housing to discharge moisture in the fluid space to the outside.

13. In paragraph 11, The above upper housing, The upper plate forming the lower surface; and comprising an upper extension extending upwardly along the edge of the upper plate; The above upper hole is a dehumidifying device formed in the above upper plate.

14. In paragraph 13, A dehumidifier further comprising an upper cover coupled to cover the open upper surface of the upper housing.

15. In paragraph 10, A lower hole into which the dehumidifying module is inserted is formed in the lower housing. A dehumidifying device in which the internal space of the above cap is connected to the fluid space of the lower housing through the above cap hole.

16. In paragraph 15, A dehumidifier having a connection port provided in the lower housing to discharge moisture in the fluid space to the outside.

17. In paragraph 15, The above lower housing, a lower plate forming the upper surface; and comprising a lower extension extending downwardly along the edge of the lower plate; The above lower hole is a dehumidifying device formed in the above lower plate.

18. In paragraph 17, A dehumidifier further comprising a lower cover coupled to cover the open lower surface of the lower housing.

19. A plurality of dehumidifying modules including a dehumidifying member having a polymer membrane fiber for separating moisture in humid air; An upper housing arranged on the upper side of the plurality of dehumidifying modules; A lower housing arranged on the lower side of the above plurality of dehumidifying modules; and A euro guide is disposed between the upper housing and the lower housing and covers both sides of the plurality of dehumidifying modules, A dehumidifying device having a connection port for discharging moisture separated from the dehumidifying member in the upper housing or the lower housing.

20. In paragraph 19, A flow space is formed inside the upper housing or the lower housing 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.

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