Adsorption device and adsorption system

Abstract

This adsorption device is provided with: a flow path formation unit (30) that forms an air flow path (31) through which air flows; an adsorption member (50) that adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air in the air flow path (31); and a refrigerant circuit (11) in which a refrigeration cycle is carried out and which includes a compressor (21), a radiator (60) that heats the adsorption member (50), a pressure reduction mechanism (22), and an evaporator (23) that cools the air. In the air flow path (31), the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are provided in that order.

Description

Adsorption device and adsorption system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to adsorption devices and adsorption systems.

[0002] There is an adsorption system that adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air. The carbon dioxide capture system described in Patent Document 1 includes an adsorption plate on which an adsorbent is supported and a flow pipe that heats the adsorption plate. Carbon dioxide in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. A heating medium flowing through the flow pipe heats and regenerates the adsorbent on the adsorption plate. The carbon dioxide desorbed from the adsorbent is transported by a pump and stored.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-13169

[0004] The present inventors have created an adsorption device that adsorbs and regenerates carbon dioxide in the air using a refrigeration cycle in a refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant circuit includes a compressor, a radiator, a pressure reduction mechanism, and an evaporator. The radiator functions as a heat source for desorbing carbon dioxide adsorbed in the adsorbent. The evaporator absorbs heat from the air to evaporate the refrigerant.

[0005] On the other hand, in a configuration in which an adsorption member, a radiator, and an evaporator are arranged in the air flow path, there is a possibility that the adsorption member will interfere with the radiator or the evaporator when the adsorption member is removed from the air flow path.

[0006] The present disclosure proposes an adsorption device in which the adsorption member can be easily removed from the air flow path.

[0007] The first aspect relates to an adsorption device. The adsorption device includes a flow path forming portion (30) that forms an air flow path (31) through which air flows, an adsorption member (50) that adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air in the air flow path (31), a radiator (60) that heats the adsorption member (50), and a refrigerant circuit (11) that has an evaporator (23) that cools the air and performs a refrigeration cycle. The evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31).

[0008] In the first aspect, the adsorption member (50) is not disposed in the air flow path (31) by being sandwiched between the evaporator (23) and the radiator (60), and therefore the adsorption member (50) can be easily removed to the outside of the air flow path (31).

[0009] In a second aspect, the adsorption device of the first aspect further includes a space forming portion (40) that defines an internal space (41) configured to be decompressible in the air flow path (31). The adsorption member (50) and the radiator (60) are disposed in the internal space (41). The evaporator (23) is disposed outside the internal space (41) in the air flow path (31).

[0010] In the second aspect, the adsorption member (50) and the radiator (60) are disposed in an internal space (41) that can be depressurized. Therefore, the carbon dioxide adsorbed in the adsorption member (50) can be desorbed by heat released from the radiator (60). Since the evaporator (23) is disposed outside the internal space (41), the volume of the internal space (41) can be reduced. Therefore, the internal space (41) can be quickly depressurized, and the regeneration capacity of the adsorption member (50) can be improved.

[0011] In a third aspect, in the second aspect, the space forming portion (40) has side walls (43, 44) located on the opposite side of the adsorption member (50) from the radiator (60). The side walls (43, 44) are detachably attached to the flow path forming portion (30).

[0012] In the third aspect, the adsorption member (50) in the internal space (41) can be easily taken out of the air flow path (31) by removing the side walls (43, 44) from the flow path formation section (30).

[0013] In a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, an evaporator (23), a radiator (60), and an adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31) from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

[0014] In the fourth aspect, the air cooled in the evaporator (23) can be passed through the adsorption member (50), thereby improving the carbon dioxide adsorption capacity of the adsorption member (50).

[0015] In a fifth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, an evaporator (23), a radiator (60), and an adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31) from the downstream side to the upstream side of the air flow.

[0016] In the fifth aspect, the air that has passed through the adsorption member (50) can be passed through the evaporator (23), so that the heat of adsorption generated in the adsorption member (50) can be recovered in the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11).

[0017] In a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the adsorption device further includes a fan (26) that transports air through the air flow path (31). The fan (26) is disposed on the opposite side of the radiator (60) from the adsorption member (50).

[0018] In the sixth aspect, when the adsorption member (50) is moved to the side opposite the radiator (60), interference between the adsorption member (50) and the fan (26) can be avoided.

[0019] A seventh aspect relates to an adsorption system, which includes the adsorption device (10) according to any one of the first to sixth aspects and a recovery unit (70) that sends carbon dioxide desorbed from the adsorption member (50) to the target.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an adsorption system in an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerant circuit. FIG. 3 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a main portion of an adsorption unit. FIG. 4 is a view seen from the arrow A in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the entire adsorption member and its main portion. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an adsorption system in a first operation. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an adsorption system in a second operation. FIG. 8 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a main portion of an adsorption unit, showing the adsorption member being removed from a radiator. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an adsorption system in a modified example. FIG. 10 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a main portion of an adsorption unit in a modified example.

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

[0022] (1) Overall Configuration An embodiment of the present disclosure is an adsorption system (1). The adsorption system (1) of this example adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air. The adsorption system (1) of this example constitutes a DAC (Direct Air Capture) system that separates and captures carbon dioxide directly from outdoor air.

[0023] 1, the adsorption system (1) includes an adsorption device (10), a recovery unit (70), and a water supply unit (80). The adsorption device (10) includes a refrigerant circuit (11), an outer casing (30), an inner casing (40), a fan (26), and an adsorption member (50).

[0024] (2) Adsorption Device As shown in Fig. 1, the adsorption device (10) has a first adsorption unit (U1) and a second adsorption unit (U2) as a plurality of adsorption units. Since the first adsorption unit (U1) and the second adsorption unit (U2) have basically the same configuration, they may be collectively referred to as the adsorption unit (U). As shown in Fig. 2, the adsorption device (10) has a refrigerant circuit (11).

[0025] (2-1) Refrigerant Circuit The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating a refrigerant. As shown in FIG. 2, the refrigerant circuit (11) includes a compressor (21), a first radiator (60A), a second radiator (60B), an expansion valve (22), a first evaporator (23A), and a second evaporator (23B). The first radiator (60A) and the second radiator (60B) have the same basic structure, and therefore may be collectively referred to as a radiator (60). The first evaporator (23A) and the second evaporator (23B) have the same basic structure, and therefore may be collectively referred to as an evaporator (23).

[0026] The compressor (21) draws in refrigerant and discharges the compressed refrigerant. The discharge side of the compressor (21) branches into a first discharge-side flow path (13a) and a second discharge-side flow path (13b). The first discharge-side flow path (13a) is provided with a first radiator (60A), and the second discharge-side flow path (13b) is provided with a second radiator (60B). The radiator (60) is an air heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and air. In the radiator (60), the refrigerant radiates heat to the air, thereby condensing.

[0027] The outlet end of the first discharge side flow path (13a) and the outlet end of the second discharge side flow path (13b) are connected to a liquid flow path (14). The liquid flow path (14) is provided with an expansion valve (22). The expansion valve (22) is an example of a pressure reducing mechanism. The expansion valve (22) is, for example, an electronic expansion valve.

[0028] The outlet side of the liquid flow path (14) branches into a first suction side flow path (15a) and a second suction side flow path (15b). The outlet end of the first suction side flow path (15a) and the outlet end of the second suction side flow path (15b) are connected to the suction side of the compressor (21). The first suction side flow path (15a) is provided with a first evaporator (23A), and the second suction side flow path (15b) is provided with a second evaporator (23B). The evaporator (23) is an air heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and air. In the evaporator (23), the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air to evaporate.

[0029] The first discharge-side flow path (13a) is provided with a first discharge-side control valve (24a) upstream of the first radiator (60A), and the second discharge-side flow path (13b) is provided with a second discharge-side control valve (24b) upstream of the second radiator (60B). The first suction-side flow path (15a) is provided with a first suction-side control valve (25a) upstream of the first evaporator (23A), and the second suction-side flow path (15b) is provided with a second suction-side control valve (25b) upstream of the second evaporator (23B). These control valves (24a, 24b, 25a, 25b) are formed by on-off valves such as solenoid on-off valves, but may also be flow control valves.

[0030] (2-2) Adsorption Units As shown in FIG. 1 , the first adsorption unit (U1) includes a first radiator (60A), a first evaporator (23A), a first adsorption member (50A), and a first fan (26A). The second adsorption unit (U2) includes a second radiator (60B), a second evaporator (23B), a second adsorption member (50B), and a second fan (26B). The first adsorption member (50A) and the second adsorption member (50B) have the same basic structure, and therefore may be collectively referred to as adsorption members (50). The first fan (26A) and the second fan (26B) have the same basic structure, and therefore may be collectively referred to as fans (26). Each adsorption unit (U) includes an outer casing (30) and an inner casing (40).

[0031] (2-2-1) Outer Casing The outer casing (30) is an example of a flow path forming part. The outer casing (30) forms an air flow path (31) therein through which air flows. The air flow path (31) of this embodiment communicates with the outdoor space, and outdoor air flows through the air flow path (31). The outer casing (30) has an inlet (32) and an outlet (33). The inlet (32) is formed at the upstream end of the air flow path (31), and the outlet (33) is formed at the outlet end of the air flow path (31). In other words, the air flow path (31) is formed from the inlet (32) to the outlet (33). The flow path forming part may be a duct in which the air flow path (31) is formed, or a guide that guides air.

[0032] (2-2-2) Inner Casing The inner casing (40) is an example of a space forming part arranged in the air flow path (31). The inner casing (40) defines an internal space (41) therein. The internal space (41) accommodates the radiator (60) and the adsorption member (50). The internal space (41) constitutes a decompression space capable of reducing pressure. The inner casing (40) is formed hollow with the air flow direction as its short side. The inner casing (40) has a main body (42), a first side plate (43) formed on the upstream side of the air flow in the main body (42), and a second side plate (44) formed on the downstream side of the air flow in the main body (42).

[0033] The first side plate (43) has a first opening (43a) formed therein, through which air can flow. The first opening (43a) connects the space upstream of the inner casing (40) in the air flow path (31) with the internal space (41). The first side plate (43) is provided with a first damper (45) that opens and closes the first opening (43a). The first damper (45) is an example of a first opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the upstream side of the inner casing (40). The first side plate (43) is detachably attached to the main body (42).

[0034] The second side plate (44) is formed with a second opening (44a) through which air can flow. The second opening (44a) connects the space downstream of the inner casing (40) in the air flow path (31) with the internal space (41). The second side plate (44) is provided with a second damper (46) that opens and closes the second opening (44a). The second damper (46) is an example of a second opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the upstream side of the inner casing (40). The second side plate (44) is detachably attached to the main body (42). The second side plate (44) constitutes a side wall located on the opposite side of the adsorption member (50) from the radiator (60).

[0035] The space forming portion may be a frame-shaped member that forms the internal space (41). A part of the flow path forming portion and a part of the space forming portion may be formed from the same member.

[0036] (2-2-3) Fan The fan (26) is disposed in the air flow path (31). The fan (26) transports the air so that the air passes through the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50).

[0037] (2-2-4) Adsorption Member The adsorption member (50) adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air. The adsorption member (50) has an adsorbent that adsorbs carbon dioxide. The adsorption member (50) of this embodiment is configured by supporting the adsorbent on the surface of a substrate. The substrate is, for example, a ceramic material.

[0038] Adsorbents have the property of adsorbing carbon dioxide. Strictly speaking, the higher the temperature of an adsorbent, the easier it is for carbon dioxide to desorb, and the lower the temperature, the easier it is for carbon dioxide to be adsorbed. Here, "adsorption" includes not only carbon dioxide being adsorbed onto the surface of a solid or liquid, but also its absorption into the interior of a solid or liquid. Also, "adsorption" includes not only physical adsorption but also chemical adsorption. Adsorbents are composed of a liquid film.

[0039] 1 and 2, the first adsorption member (50A) is disposed near the first radiator (60A). The second adsorption member (50B) is disposed near the second radiator (60B). In this embodiment, the first adsorption member (50A) and the first radiator (60A) are in contact with each other, and the second adsorption member (50B) and the second radiator (60B) are in contact with each other.

[0040] (2-2-5) Arrangement of Components in Air Flow Channel As shown in Fig. 1, the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow channel (31). Strictly speaking, the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow channel (31) from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

[0041] More specifically, the fan (26), the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31). Strictly speaking, the fan (26), the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31) from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

[0042] (3) Recovery Unit The recovery unit (70) sends the carbon dioxide desorbed from the adsorption member (50) to a predetermined target. The target may be a storage section that stores carbon dioxide, a decomposition section that decomposes carbon dioxide, or a utilization section that utilizes carbon dioxide. The recovery unit (70) has a recovery flow path (71) and a pump (72).

[0043] The recovery flow path (71) is a flow path for sending carbon dioxide desorbed from the adsorption member (50) to the target. The recovery flow path (71) has a first suction path (73), a second suction path (74), and a main flow path (75). The inflow end of the first suction path (73) is connected to the first adsorption unit (U1) and communicates with the internal space (41) of the first adsorption unit (U1). The inflow end of the second suction path (74) is connected to the second adsorption unit (U2) and communicates with the internal space (41) of the second adsorption unit (U2). The inflow end of the main flow path (75) is connected to the outflow end of the first suction path (73) and the outflow end of the second suction path (74). The other end of the main flow path (75) is connected to the target side.

[0044] The pump (72) is provided in the main flow path (75). The pump (72) transports carbon dioxide from the recovery flow path (71). The pump (72) constitutes a pressure reducing device that reduces the pressure in the internal space (41).

[0045] A first suction valve (76a) is provided in the first suction passage (73), and a second suction valve (76b) is provided in the second suction passage (74). The first suction valve (76a) and the second suction valve (76b) are configured as on-off valves such as solenoid on-off valves, but may also be flow rate control valves.

[0046] (4) Water Supply Unit The water supply unit (80) supplies the generated water vapor to the internal space (41) of the adsorption unit (U). The water supply unit (80) includes a supply channel (81), a water tank (82), and a heating section (83).

[0047] The supply channel (81) has a main supply channel (84), a first inlet channel (85), and a second inlet channel (86). The inlet end of the main supply channel (81) is connected to the top of the water tank (82). The inlet end of the first inlet channel (85) and the inlet end of the second inlet channel (86) are connected to the outlet end of the main supply channel (81). The outlet end of the first inlet channel (85) is connected to the first adsorption unit (U1) and communicates with the internal space (41) of the first adsorption unit (U1). The outlet end of the second inlet channel (86) is connected to the second adsorption unit (U2) and communicates with the internal space (41) of the second adsorption unit (U2).

[0048] A first introduction valve (87a) is provided in the first introduction path (85), and a second introduction valve (87b) is provided in the second introduction path (86). The first introduction valve (87a) and the second introduction valve (87b) are implemented by on-off valves such as solenoid on-off valves, but may also be flow rate control valves.

[0049] The water tank (82) is a container for generating steam. Water is supplied from a water source to the inside of the water tank (82). The heating section (83) is disposed inside the water tank (82). The heating section (83) generates steam by heating the water in the water tank (82). The steam generated in the water tank (82) is supplied to the adsorption unit (U) via the supply path (81). The heating section (83) is connected to the refrigerant circuit (11) and may be a heat exchanger through which a high-pressure refrigerant flows, or may be another heat source such as an electric heater.

[0050] (5) Detailed Structure of Heat Radiator and Adsorption Member The heat radiator (60) and the adsorption member (50) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0051] (5-1) Radiator As shown in Fig. 4, the radiator (60) of this embodiment includes a first header collecting pipe (61), a second header collecting pipe (62), and a plurality of flat tubes (63). The first header collecting pipe (61) and the second header collecting pipe (62) are formed in a cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction. An internal space is formed inside the first header collecting pipe (61) and the second header collecting pipe (62), through which the refrigerant of the refrigerant circuit (11) flows.

[0052] The flat tubes (63) are an example of heat transfer tubes. The flat tubes (63) are so-called flat multi-hole tubes having a plurality of refrigerant flow paths (63a). In this embodiment, the flat tubes (63) are arranged in the vertical direction. The flat tubes (63) are arranged parallel to one another. The flat tubes (63) extend in a direction intersecting the air flow direction of the air flow path (63a) (the horizontal direction in FIG. 4). The longitudinal direction of the flat tubes (63) corresponds to the horizontal direction, the thickness direction of the flat tubes (63) corresponds to the vertical direction, and the width direction of the flat tubes (63) corresponds to the air flow direction (the first direction in FIG. 3). The refrigerant flow path (63a) penetrates the flat tubes (63) in the horizontal direction. The refrigerant flow path (63a) connects the internal flow path of the first header collecting pipe (61) and the internal flow path of the second header collecting pipe (62) to each other.

[0053] (5-2) Adsorption Member As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the adsorption member (50) has a plurality of adsorption portions (51) and connecting portions (52) connecting the ends of the plurality of adsorption portions (51).

[0054] The suction portion (51) is formed in the shape of a plate or a rectangular parallelepiped. The longitudinal direction of the suction portion (51) corresponds to the left-right direction, the thickness direction of the suction portion (51) corresponds to the up-down direction, and the width direction of the suction portion (51) corresponds to the air flow direction (first direction in FIG. 3 ).

[0055] Each adsorption portion (51) is inserted into a space between adjacent flat tubes (63). In this way, the adsorption member (50) is supported by the radiator (60). The radiator (60) functions as a support member for the adsorption portion (51).

[0056] The flat tubes (63) and the adsorption portions (51) are substantially in contact with each other. Specifically, one end surface (upper surface) of the flat tubes (63) in the thickness direction is in contact with one end surface (lower surface) of the flat tubes (63) in the thickness direction, and the other end surface (lower surface) of the flat tubes (63) in the thickness direction is in contact with the other end surface (upper surface) of the flat tubes (63) in the thickness direction. A small gap may be formed between the flat tubes (63) and the adsorption portions (51).

[0057] The connecting portion (52) connects to the end of the adsorption portion (51) on the opposite side to the evaporator (23). Specifically, the connecting portion (52) connects to the end of the adsorption portion (51) on the downstream side in the air flow direction. The connecting portion (52) connects to the ends of all of the adsorption portions (51). In other words, the connecting portion (52) is formed on the edge of the adsorption member (50) on the opposite side to the evaporator (23). The connecting portion (52) is formed in the shape of a plate whose thickness direction is in the first direction. In other words, the connecting portion (52) is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped that is flattened in the first direction.

[0058] A plurality of holes (53) are formed in the adsorption member (50). The plurality of holes (53) penetrate the adsorption member (50) in a first direction. As shown in FIG. 5 , the holes (53) in this embodiment are formed at positions corresponding to the adsorption sections (51). The adsorption sections (51) and the connecting sections (52) have a lattice structure that forms the plurality of holes (53). The plurality of holes (53) extend in the first direction from the upstream end face of the adsorption section (51) to the downstream end face of the connecting sections (52). An adsorbent is supported on the inner walls of the plurality of holes (53). When air passes through the plurality of holes (53), carbon dioxide in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent.

[0059] (6) Operation The operation of the adsorption system (1) will be described. The adsorption system (1) alternates between a first operation and a second operation. In the first operation, the first adsorption unit (U1) performs a regeneration operation while the second adsorption unit (U2) performs an adsorption operation. In the second operation, the first adsorption unit (U1) performs an adsorption operation while the second adsorption unit (U2) performs a regeneration operation. The first adsorption unit (U1) and the second adsorption unit (U2) repeatedly alternate between the adsorption operation and the regeneration operation.

[0060] (6-1) First Operation In the first operation shown in Fig. 6, the first fan (26A) is stopped, and the second fan (26B), the compressor (21), the pump (72), and the heating section (83) are operating. The first damper (45) and the second damper (46) of the first adsorption unit (U1) are closed, and the first damper (45) and the second damper (46) of the second adsorption unit (U2) are open. In the refrigerant circuit (11), the first discharge control valve (24a) and the second suction control valve (25b) are open, and the second discharge control valve (24b) and the first suction control valve (25a) are closed.

[0061] In the refrigerant circuit (11) during the first operation, a refrigeration cycle is performed in which the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (21) dissipates heat in the first radiator (60A), is reduced in pressure in the expansion valve (22), and evaporates in the second evaporator (23B).

[0062] In the second adsorption unit (U2) during the first operation, outdoor air transported by the second fan (26B) passes through the second evaporator (23B). In the second evaporator (23B), heat exchange occurs between the air and the refrigerant, and the air is cooled. In the second evaporator (23B), heat from the air is recovered as heat of evaporation of the refrigerant. The air that has passed through the second evaporator (23B) flows through the internal space (41) and passes through the second adsorption member (50B). At this time, carbon dioxide in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent of the second adsorption member (50B). The air that has passed through the second adsorption member (50B) is discharged to the outdoor space.

[0063] In the first adsorption unit (U1) during the first operation, the first radiator (60A) heats the first adsorption member (50A). Specifically, when the refrigerant flows through the flat tubes (63) of the first radiator (60A), heat of the refrigerant is transferred to the adsorption section (51) and the connecting section (52) via the flat tubes (63). As a result, carbon dioxide is desorbed from the first adsorption member (50A). When the pump (72) is operated, a negative pressure is created in the internal space (41) of the first adsorption unit (U1). As a result, desorption of carbon dioxide from the first adsorption member (50A) is promoted.

[0064] In the water tank (82), water heated by the heater (83) is converted into water vapor. The water vapor generated in the water tank (82) flows through the main supply passage (84) and the first inlet passage (85), and is supplied to the internal space (41) of the first adsorption unit (U1). The supply of water vapor to the periphery of the first adsorption member (50A) promotes desorption of carbon dioxide in the first adsorption member (50A).

[0065] The carbon dioxide desorbed from the first adsorption member (50A) flows through the first suction path (73) and the main flow path (75), and is supplied to the target.

[0066] (6-2) Second Operation In the second operation shown in Fig. 7, the second fan (26B) is stopped, and the first fan (26A), the compressor (21), the pump (72), and the heating section (83) are operating. The first damper (45) and the second damper (46) of the second adsorption unit (U2) are closed, and the first damper (45) and the second damper (46) of the first adsorption unit (U1) are open. In the refrigerant circuit (11), the second discharge control valve (24b) and the first suction control valve (25a) are open, and the first discharge control valve (24a) and the second suction control valve (25b) are closed.

[0067] In the refrigerant circuit (11) during the second operation, a refrigeration cycle is performed in which the refrigerant compressed in the compressor (21) dissipates heat in the second radiator (60B), is reduced in pressure in the expansion valve (22), and evaporates in the first evaporator (23A).

[0068] In the first adsorption unit (U1) during the second operation, outdoor air transported by the first fan (26A) passes through the first evaporator (23A). In the first evaporator (23A), heat is exchanged between the air and the refrigerant, and the air is cooled. In the first evaporator (23A), heat from the air is recovered as heat of evaporation of the refrigerant. The air that has passed through the first evaporator (23A) flows through the internal space (41) and passes through the first adsorption member (50A). At this time, carbon dioxide in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent of the first adsorption member (50A). The air that has passed through the first adsorption member (50A) is discharged to the outdoor space.

[0069] In the second adsorption unit (U2) during the second operation, the second radiator (60B) heats the second adsorption member (50B). Specifically, when the refrigerant flows through the flat tubes (63) of the second radiator (60B), heat of the refrigerant is transferred to the adsorption section (51) and the connecting section (52) via the flat tubes (63). As a result, carbon dioxide is desorbed from the second adsorption member (50B). When the pump (72) is operated, a negative pressure is created in the internal space (41) of the second adsorption unit (U2). As a result, desorption of carbon dioxide from the second adsorption member (50B) is promoted.

[0070] In the water tank (82), water heated by the heater (83) is converted into water vapor. The water vapor generated in the water tank (82) flows through the main supply channel (84) and the second inlet channel (86), and is supplied to the internal space (41) of the second adsorption unit (U2). The supply of water vapor to the periphery of the second adsorption member (50B) promotes desorption of carbon dioxide in the second adsorption member (50B).

[0071] The carbon dioxide desorbed from the second adsorption member (50B) flows through the second suction passage (74) and the main passage (75), and is supplied to the target.

[0072] (7) Work Related to the Adsorption Member The adsorption member (50) carries an adsorbent. When the adsorption device (10) is used for a long period of time, the adsorbent deteriorates, and the carbon dioxide adsorption performance decreases. Therefore, in the adsorption device (10), maintenance work and replacement work of the adsorption member (50) are important.

[0073] The worker removes the adsorption member (50) from the air flow path (31) in the following procedure. First, the worker removes the second side plate (44) of the inner casing (40) shown in Fig. 1 from the main body (42). As a result, the adsorption member (50) is exposed to the outside of the outer casing (30) through the opening of the main body (42) and the air flow path (31).

[0074] Next, the worker pulls out the adsorption member (50) to the side opposite the radiator (60) through the open portion of the main body (42) and the air flow path (31). Specifically, the worker grasps the connecting portion (52) of the adsorption member (50) and pulls the connecting portion (52) in the direction of the dashed-dotted arrow in FIG. 8 . As a result, each adsorption portion (51) connected to the connecting portion (52) is pulled out from between adjacent flat tubes (63). At this time, the connecting portion (52) does not interfere with the flat tubes (63). Therefore, the worker can easily remove the adsorption member (50) supported by the radiator (60) from the radiator (60). Thereafter, the worker removes the adsorption member (50) to the outside of the air flow path (31) through the outlet (33).

[0075] When the worker installs the adsorption member (50) in the air flow path (31), the worker performs the work in the reverse order of the above-described steps. Specifically, the worker places the adsorption member (50) in the air flow path (31) and further in the internal space (41). Next, the worker inserts each adsorption portion (51) of the adsorption member (50) between adjacent flat tubes (63). As a result, the adsorption member (50) is supported by the radiator (60). Next, the worker attaches the second side plate (44) of the inner casing (40) to the main body (42).

[0076] (8) Features (8-1) An adsorption device (10) according to an embodiment includes a flow path forming portion (30) that forms an air flow path (31) through which air flows, an adsorption member (50) that adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air in the air flow path (31), and a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) includes a compressor (21), a radiator (60) that heats the adsorption member (50), a pressure reducing mechanism (22), and an evaporator (23) that cools the air, thereby performing a refrigeration cycle. The evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are sequentially arranged in the air flow path (31).

[0077] In this configuration, the adsorption member (50) is not disposed between the evaporator (23) and the radiator (60) in the air flow path (31). This allows an operator to easily remove the adsorption member (50) from the air flow path (31). Alternatively, the operator can easily insert the adsorption member (50) into the air flow path (31). This allows an operator to easily perform maintenance or replacement of the adsorption member (50).

[0078] (8-2) The adsorption member (50) has a plurality of adsorption sections (51) and one connecting section (52) to which the ends of the plurality of adsorption sections (51) are connected. Each of the plurality of adsorption sections (51) is disposed between adjacent flat tubes (63) of the plurality of flat tubes (63). The connecting section (52) is connected to the end of the adsorption section (51) on the side opposite to the evaporator (23).

[0079] In this configuration, the worker can pull out the connecting portion (52) to the side opposite the evaporator (23) and remove the adsorption portion (51) from the radiator (60). The worker can simply pull out the adsorption member (50) to the side opposite the evaporator (23), thereby easily removing the adsorption member (50) from the air flow path (31). At this time, the adsorption member (50) does not interfere with the flat pipes (63).

[0080] In this configuration, the radiator (60) functions as a support member for the adsorption member (50), thereby reducing the number of parts.

[0081] In this configuration, the flat tubes (63) and the adsorption portions (51) are located close to each other, which facilitates the transfer of heat from the flat tubes (63) to the adsorption portions (51), thereby improving the regeneration capacity of the adsorption member (50).

[0082] (8-3) The adsorption member (50) and the radiator (60) are disposed in the internal space (41) of the inner casing (40). The evaporator (23) is disposed in the air flow path (31) outside the internal space (41) of the inner casing (40).

[0083] In this configuration, the adsorption member (50) and the radiator (60) are disposed in the internal space (41), and the evaporator (23) is disposed outside the internal space (41). This reduces the volume of the internal space (41), allowing the pressure in the internal space (41) to be reduced quickly. As a result, the regeneration capacity of the adsorption member (50) can be improved.

[0084] (8-4) The inner casing (40) has a second side plate (44) located on the opposite side of the adsorption member (50) from the radiator (60). The second side plate (44) is detachably attached to the flow path forming portion (30).

[0085] In this configuration, an operator can easily remove the adsorption member (50) from the air flow path (31) by removing the second side plate (44) of the inner casing (40) from the main body (42).

[0086] (8-5) In the air flow path (31), an evaporator (23), a radiator (60), and an adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

[0087] In this configuration, the air cooled in the evaporator (23) can be sent to the adsorption member (50). This improves the adsorption capacity of the adsorption member (50). Furthermore, the evaporator (23) can dehumidify the air as it is cooled. This reduces the adhesion of moisture to the adsorption member (50).

[0088] Furthermore, the adsorption device (10) performs a first operation in which the first adsorption member (50A) is heated by the first radiator (60A) to regenerate the first adsorption member (50A), and simultaneously, the air is cooled by the second evaporator (23B), and carbon dioxide in the air is adsorbed by the second adsorption member (50B); and a second operation in which the second adsorption member (50B) is heated by the second radiator (60B), and simultaneously, the second adsorption member (50B) is regenerated, and simultaneously, the air is cooled by the first evaporator (23A), and carbon dioxide in the air is adsorbed by the first adsorption member (50A).

[0089] Therefore, in the first operation, the heat of the air absorbed by the refrigerant in the second evaporator (23B) can be used as heat for regeneration of the first adsorption member (50A).In the second operation, the heat of the air absorbed by the refrigerant in the first evaporator (23A) can be used as heat for regeneration of the second adsorption member (50B).

[0090] (8-6) The fan (26) that transports air through the air flow path (31) is arranged on the opposite side of the radiator (60) from the adsorption member (50).

[0091] Therefore, when the adsorption member (50) is pulled out to the side opposite the radiator (60), there is no interference between the adsorption member (50) and the fan (26), and therefore the worker can easily remove the adsorption member (50) to the outside of the air flow path (31).

[0092] (9) Modifications The above embodiment may be configured as the following modifications: Note that the following description will basically focus on the differences from the above embodiment.

[0093] In the modified example shown in Figures 8 and 9, an evaporator (23), a radiator (60), and an adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31) from the downstream side to the upstream side of the air flow. The fan (26) in the modified example is arranged downstream of the evaporator (23) in the air flow path (31). The fan (26) is arranged on the opposite side of the radiator (60) from the adsorption member (50). As in the embodiment, the connecting portion (52) of the adsorption member (50) is connected to the end of the adsorption section (51) on the opposite side from the evaporator (23). The connecting portion (52) in the modified example is connected to the upstream end of the adsorption section (51). In the modified example, the first side plate (43) of the inner casing (40) forms a side wall located on the opposite side of the adsorption member (50) from the radiator (60).

[0094] In this modified example, when removing the adsorption member (50) from the air flow path (31), the worker detaches the first side plate (43) from the main body (42) and pulls out the adsorption member (50) to the upstream side of the air flow path (31). Specifically, the worker pulls out the connecting portion (52) to the upstream side and removes the adsorption member (50) from the radiator (60). Next, the adsorption member (50) is removed to the outside of the air flow path (31) through the inlet (32). When installing the adsorption member (50) in the internal space (41), the above steps are performed in reverse order. In this manner, even in this modified example, the worker can easily perform maintenance and replacement of the adsorption member (50).

[0095] In the operation of the modified example, first and second operations are performed in the same manner as in the embodiment. However, in the first operation of the modified example, the air passes through the second adsorption member (50B) and is then cooled in the second evaporator (23B). Therefore, in the first operation, the heat of adsorption generated in the second adsorption member (50B) can be used as heat for regeneration of the first adsorption member (50A). In the second operation of the modified example, the air passes through the first adsorption member (50A) and is then cooled in the first evaporator (23A). Therefore, in the second operation, the heat of adsorption generated in the first adsorption member (50A) can be used as heat for regeneration of the second adsorption member (50B).

[0096] (10) Other Embodiments The above-described embodiment and modified examples may have the following configurations.

[0097] The adsorption device may adsorb carbon dioxide from air other than outdoor air. The target air for the adsorption device (10) may be outdoor air, indoor air, industrial exhaust gas, or a mixture of two or more of these.

[0098] The pressure reducing mechanism may be a capillary tube or a temperature-sensitive expansion valve.

[0099] The heat transfer tube of the radiator does not have to be a flat tube (63) but may be a circular tube. The flat tube (63) may have only one hole.

[0100] The adsorption member (50) may be in the form of a block that does not have a plurality of adsorption portions (51). In this case, the adsorption member (50) is preferably disposed in the vicinity of the radiator (60), and more preferably disposed so as to be in contact with the radiator (60).

[0101] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate as long as the functionality of the subject matter of the present disclosure is not impaired.

[0102] The above-mentioned descriptions such as "first," "second," "third," etc. are used to distinguish the words to which these descriptions are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the words.

[0103] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for adsorption devices and adsorption systems.

[0104] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 adsorption system 10 adsorption device 11 refrigerant circuit 23 evaporator 26 fan 30 outer casing (flow path forming portion) 31 air flow path 40 inner casing (space forming portion) 41 internal space 43, 44 side walls (first side plate, second side plate) 50 adsorption member 51 adsorption portion 52 connection portion 60 radiator 70 recovery unit

Claims

1. An adsorption device comprising: a flow path forming portion (30) that forms an air flow path (31) through which air flows; an adsorption member (50) that adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air in the air flow path (31); a refrigerant circuit (11) that performs a refrigeration cycle and has a radiator (60) that heats the adsorption member (50) and an evaporator (23) that cools the air; and the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in this order in the air flow path (31).

2. The adsorption device according to claim 1, further comprising a space forming portion (40) defining an internal space (41) configured to be decompressible in the air flow path (31), the adsorption member (50) and the radiator (60) being disposed in the internal space (41), and the evaporator (23) being disposed outside the internal space (41) in the air flow path (31).

3. The adsorption device according to claim 2, wherein the space forming portion (40) has side walls (43, 44) located on the opposite side of the adsorption member (50) from the radiator (60), and the side walls (43, 44) are detachably attached to the flow path forming portion (30).

4. The adsorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in the air flow path (31) in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

5. The adsorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the evaporator (23), the radiator (60), and the adsorption member (50) are arranged in the air flow path (31) in this order from downstream to upstream of the air flow.

6. The adsorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a fan (26) that transports air through the air flow path (31), the fan (26) being disposed on the opposite side of the radiator (60) from the adsorption member (50).

7. An adsorption system comprising: an adsorption device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6; and a recovery unit (70) for sending carbon dioxide desorbed from the adsorption member (50) to a target.

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