Humidity control element, humidity control device, and humidity control method

Abstract

Provided are a humidity control element, a humidity control device, and a humidity control method which have a large moisture absorption amount and a fast moisture absorption rate. The humidity control element comprises: a support that has a surface in contact with air and adsorbs and desorbs first water molecules; and a supported body that is supported on the surface, contains a conductive polymer, and adsorbs and desorbs second water molecules.

Description

Humidifying / Dehumidifying Element, Humidifying / Dehumidifying Device, and Humidifying / Dehumidifying Method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a humidifying / dehumidifying element, a humidifying / dehumidifying device, and a humidifying / dehumidifying method.

[0002] Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a desiccant air conditioning system. In the desiccant air conditioning system, moist air is passed through the lower half of a rotor, and the adsorbent of the rotor adsorbs moisture. The adsorbent that has adsorbed moisture moves to the upper half of the rotor due to the rotation of the rotor. Heated air is passed through the upper half of the rotor, and the adsorbent releases moisture. Silica gel, zeolite, etc. are used as the adsorbent. Pores are formed in the adsorbent.

[0003] Kenichi Koyanagi, et al., "Desiccant Air Conditioning System", Fuji Shimbun, Fuji Electric Holdings Co., Ltd. Technology and Intellectual Property Office, 2007, Vol. 80, No. 4, p. 284-288

[0004] In the desiccant air conditioning system disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1, the adsorption of moisture by the adsorbent is mainly performed by the pores formed in the adsorbent. Therefore, in the adsorption of moisture by the adsorbent, there is a problem that the amount of moisture adsorbed is large but the moisture adsorption rate is slow.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure has been made in view of this problem. One aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a humidifying / dehumidifying element, a humidifying / dehumidifying device, and a humidifying / dehumidifying method having a large moisture absorption amount and a high moisture absorption rate.

[0006] The humidifying / dehumidifying element according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes a carrier that has a surface in contact with air and adsorbs and desorbs first water molecules, and a supported body that is supported on the surface, contains a conductive polymer, and adsorbs and desorbs second water molecules.

[0007] A humidity control device according to a second aspect of the present disclosure comprises at least one humidity control element and a circuit, the humidity control element included in the at least one humidity control element comprising a conductive substrate having a substrate surface, a carrier adhering to the substrate surface and having a surface in contact with air, adsorbing and absorbing first water molecules, a supported body supported on the surface, containing a conductive polymer, adsorbing and desorbing second water molecules, a first electrode in contact with the substrate, and a second electrode in contact with the substrate, the circuit passing an electric current between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0008] A humidity control method according to a third aspect of the present disclosure comprises adsorbing water molecules onto a humidity control element according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, and desorbing the water molecules onto the humidity control element.

[0009] This is a schematic top view illustrating the top surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment. This is a schematic side view illustrating the side of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by arrow A in Figure 1A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the side of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by arrow B in Figure 1A. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the cross section of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment at the position of the cutting line C-C in Figure 1A. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the procedure for manufacturing the humidity control part of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the procedure for manufacturing the humidity control part of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment. This is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the first embodiment. This is a graph showing the time change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control section in Example 1, Example 2, Comparative Example 1, and Reference Example. This is a graph showing the relationship between the voltage value of the voltage applied to the humidity control element in Example 3, Comparative Example 2, and Comparative Example 3 and the surface temperature of the humidity control element. This is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the second embodiment. This is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the third embodiment. This is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the fourth embodiment. This is a flowchart showing the processing flow performed by the humidity control device of the fourth embodiment. This is a schematic perspective view illustrating the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the fifth embodiment. This is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the fifth embodiment. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the humidity control device of the sixth embodiment. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the humidity control device of the seventh embodiment. This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the humidity control device of the eighth embodiment. This is a schematic bottom view illustrating the bottom surface of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. This is a schematic side view illustrating the outer surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow D in Figure 15A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the outer surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow E in Figure 15A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the outer surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow F in Figure 15A.This is a schematic side view illustrating the outer circumferential surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow G in Figure 15A. This is a schematic bottom view illustrating the bottom surface configuration of each divided part of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. This is a schematic side view illustrating the outer circumferential surface configuration of each divided part of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow H in Figure 16A. This is a schematic side view illustrating one side of each divided part of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow I in Figure 16A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the inner circumferential surface configuration, one side, and the other side of each divided part of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow J in Figure 16A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by the arrow K drawn in Figure 16A. This is a schematic perspective view illustrating the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. This is a schematic perspective view illustrating the divided portion, the first contact electrode, and the second contact electrode in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. This is a schematic bottom view illustrating the bottom surface configuration of each divided portion of the humidity control element in the humidity control device of the tenth embodiment. This is a schematic side view illustrating the outer peripheral surface configuration of each divided portion of the humidity control element in the humidity control device of the tenth embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by the arrow L drawn in Figure 19A. This is a schematic side view illustrating one side of each divided portion of the humidity control element in the humidity control device of the tenth embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by the arrow M drawn in Figure 19A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the inner circumferential surface, one side, and the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow N drawn in Figure 19A. This is a schematic side view illustrating the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow P drawn in Figure 19A. This is a schematic perspective view illustrating each divided portion of the humidity control device, the first contact electrode, and the second contact electrode provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment.

[0010] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0011] 1. First Embodiment 1.1 Humidity Control Element Figure 1A is a schematic top view illustrating the top surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment. Figure 1B is a schematic side view illustrating the side of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by arrow A drawn in Figure 1A. Figure 1C is a schematic side view illustrating the side of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment, as seen from the direction indicated by arrow B drawn in Figure 1A. Figure 1D is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the cross section of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment at the position of the cutting line C-C drawn in Figure 1A.

[0012] The humidity control element 10 provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 1A to 1D, adsorbs water molecules contained in the air and desorbs the adsorbed water molecules to include them in the air. In this way, the humidity control element 10 adjusts the amount of water molecules contained in the air and adjusts the humidity of the air.

[0013] The humidity control element 10 has a rectangular plate-like external shape. The humidity control element 10 may have an external shape other than a rectangular plate-like shape.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1A to 1D, the humidity control element 10 comprises a humidity control section 101, a first electrode 102, and a second electrode 103.

[0015] The humidity control unit 101 is conductive. Therefore, the humidity control unit 101 generates Joule heat corresponding to the current flowing through it, and this Joule heat raises the temperature of the humidity control unit 101.

[0016] The humidity control unit 101 adsorbs water molecules contained in the air when the temperature is not rising.

[0017] When the temperature rises, the humidity control unit 101 desorbs the adsorbed water molecules and incorporates them into the air. As a result, the humidity control unit 101 regenerates from a state where it has adsorbed a large number of water molecules to a state where it has not adsorbed any water molecules or only a small number of water molecules due to its own heat generation.

[0018] The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 contact one end and the other end of the humidity control unit 101, respectively. Therefore, the first electrode 102, the humidity control unit 101, and the second electrode 103 are arranged linearly in the order described. The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 are separated from each other with the humidity control unit 101 in between. The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 are electrically connected to the humidity control unit 101. Therefore, when a voltage is applied between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103, current flows through the humidity control unit 101.

[0019] The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 include a conductor. The conductor includes, for example, aluminum (Al).

[0020] 1.2 Humidity Control Section As shown in Figure 1D, the humidity control section 101 comprises a base material 111 and a humidity control material 112.

[0021] The base material 111 supports the humidity control material 112.

[0022] The base material 111 includes a ceramic sheet and a second conductive polymer. The second conductive polymer is fixed to the ceramic sheet. Therefore, the base material 111 is conductive. The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 are in contact with the base material 111, and the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 are electrically connected. Therefore, when a voltage is applied between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103, a current flows through the base material 111. The base material 111 generates Joule heat corresponding to the current flowing through it, and this Joule heat raises the temperature of the humidity control material 112. The base material 111 may include a sheet other than the ceramic sheet, and the second conductive polymer may be fixed to the sheet other than the ceramic sheet. The second conductive polymer fixed to the ceramic sheet may be arranged on the main surface of the ceramic sheet to form a layer, or it may penetrate into the micropores formed in the ceramic sheet and be dispersed inside the ceramic sheet.

[0023] The second conductive polymer includes poly(2,3-dihydrothieno-1,4-dioxin) and poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT / PSS).

[0024] The base material 111 has a rectangular plate-like external shape. Therefore, the surface of the base material 111 has a main surface 111a, a main surface 111b, and an end surface 111c. The main surfaces 111a and 111b are on opposite sides.

[0025] The humidity control material 112 adsorbs water molecules contained in the air when the temperature is low. When the temperature is high, the humidity control material 112 desorbs the adsorbed water molecules and incorporates them into the air.

[0026] The humidity control material 112 adheres to the main surface 111a of the base material 111. The humidity control section 101 may, in place of the humidity control material 112 adhering to the main surface 111a of the base material 111, or in addition to the humidity control material 112, also include a humidity control material adhering to the main surface 111b of the base material 111. The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 are in contact with the end surface 111c.

[0027] 1.3 Humidity Control Material As shown in Figure 1D, the humidity control material 112 comprises a carrier 121 and a supported body 122.

[0028] The carrier 121 has a surface 121a. The surface 121a is in contact with air.

[0029] When the temperature is low, the carrier 121 adsorbs first water molecules contained in the air. When the temperature is high, the carrier 121 desorbs the adsorbed first water molecules and incorporates them into the air.

[0030] The carrier 121 preferably includes a porous material. The porous material includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of zeolite, silica gel, and activated carbon. When the carrier 121 includes a porous material, a large number of pores are formed in the carrier 121, and the carrier 121 physically adsorbs the first water molecules.

[0031] The carrier 121 adheres to the main surface 111a of the base material 111.

[0032] The carrier 121 has a particulate shape. This creates gaps between the carriers 121 that allow air to enter. This allows air to efficiently come into contact with the carrier 121 and the supported body 122. The carrier 121 may have a shape other than particulate. For example, the carrier 121 may have a grid pattern shape, a dot pattern shape, or the like formed on the main surface 111a of the base material 111.

[0033] The supported material 122 is supported on the surface 121a of the carrier 121.

[0034] The supported material 122 is conductive. Therefore, when an electric current flows through the base material 111, an electric current also flows through the supported material 122. The supported material 122 generates Joule heat corresponding to the electric current flowing through it, and this Joule heat raises the temperature of the supported material 122.

[0035] When the temperature of the carrier 122 is not rising, it adsorbs second water molecules contained in the air. When the temperature of the carrier 122 rises, it desorbs the adsorbed second water molecules and incorporates them into the air. As a result, it is no longer necessary to heat the humidity control material 112 with a heater to regenerate the humidity control material 112. This makes it possible to miniaturize the humidity control device equipped with the humidity control element 10.

[0036] The supported material 122 contains a first conductive polymer.

[0037] The first conductive polymer contains PEDOT / PSS. When the first conductive polymer contains PEDOT / PSS, the first conductive polymer chemically adsorbs the second water molecule. The chemical adsorption of the second water molecule by PEDOT / PSS is carried out by hydrogen bonding. PEDOT / PSS can be regenerated at low temperatures. Therefore, by including PEDOT / PSS in the first conductive polymer, the power consumption of the humidity control element 10 required to regenerate the humidity control element 10 can be reduced. This allows the humidity control element 10 to be regenerated efficiently. In addition, the heat resistance temperature of the humidity control element 10 and its surrounding elements can be lowered, and the cost of the humidity control element 10 and its surrounding elements can be reduced. PEDOT / PSS becomes acidic when it adsorbs the second water molecule. Therefore, by including PEDOT / PSS in the first conductive polymer, the growth of bacteria on the humidity control material 112 can be suppressed.

[0038] The humidity control agent 112 may contain at least one selected from the group consisting of a high-boiling point solvent and a pH adjuster. The high-boiling point solvent includes, for example, ethylene glycol.

[0039] The carrier 121 adsorbs the first water molecules by physical adsorption. Therefore, the carrier 121 can adsorb a large amount of the first water molecules. In other words, the carrier 121 contributes to increasing the amount of moisture absorbed by the humidity control material 112. The pores formed in the carrier 121 contribute to increasing the amount of moisture absorbed. However, the carrier 121 cannot quickly absorb the first water molecules.

[0040] On the other hand, the carrier 122 adsorbs the second water molecules by chemiadsorption. Therefore, the carrier 122 can quickly adsorb the second water molecules. In other words, the carrier 122 contributes to increasing the moisture absorption rate of the humidity control material 112, especially the initial moisture absorption rate of the humidity control material 112. However, the carrier 122 cannot adsorb a large amount of the second water molecules.

[0041] The humidity control material 112 is a composite material in which a carrier 121 that contributes to increasing the moisture absorption amount of the humidity control material 112 and a supported material 122 that contributes to increasing the moisture absorption speed of the humidity control material 112 are combined. Thereby, the moisture absorption amount of the humidity control material 112 can be increased, and the moisture absorption speed of the humidity control material 112 can be increased. Thereby, moisture absorption can be performed efficiently.

[0042] The ratio of the weight of the supported material 122 to the weight of the carrier 121 is preferably 0.05 or more and 0.5 or less. When the ratio is less than 0.05 of the lower limit, the amount of the supported material 122 that contributes to increasing the moisture absorption speed of the humidity control material 112 may be reduced and the moisture absorption speed may be slowed down. When the ratio is greater than 0.5 of the upper limit, the amount of the supported material 122 that fills the pores of the carrier 121 that contributes to increasing the moisture absorption amount of the humidity control material 112 may be increased and the moisture absorption amount may be reduced.

[0043] 1.4 Procedure for manufacturing the humidity control section Figures 2A to 2C are cross-sectional views schematically showing the procedure for manufacturing the humidity control section of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the first embodiment.

[0044] When the humidity control section 101 is manufactured, as shown in FIG. 2A, the first PEDOT / PSS solution 132 is impregnated into the ceramics sheet 131. Thereby, a composite body composed of the ceramics sheet 131 and the first PEDOT / PSS solution 132 is manufactured. The first PEDOT / PSS solution 132 to be impregnated contains PEDOT / PSS and a solvent. PEDOT / PSS is dissolved or dispersed in the solvent. Further, the manufactured composite body is baked. Thereby, the solvent is evaporated. Also, PEDOT / PSS is fixed to the ceramics sheet 131. Thereby, the base material 111 shown in FIG. 2B is manufactured. The composite body is baked, for example, at 130° C. for 1 hour in the air.

[0045] Next, as shown in FIG. 2B, the carrier 121 is placed on the main surface 111a of the base material 111. Thereby, a composite body composed of the base material 111 and the carrier 121 is produced. Subsequently, the second PEDOT / PSS solution 133 is impregnated into the placed carrier 121. Thereby, a composite body composed of the base material 111, the carrier 121, and the second PEDOT / PSS solution 133 is produced. The second PEDOT / PSS solution 133 to be impregnated contains PEDOT / PSS and a solvent. The PEDOT / PSS is dissolved or dispersed in the solvent.

[0046] Next, as shown in FIG. 2C, the produced composite body is baked. Thereby, the solvent contained in the second PEDOT / PSS solution 133 is evaporated. Also, the PEDOT / PSS 122 contained in the second PEDOT / PSS solution 133 is fixed to the carrier 121. Thereby, the humidity control unit 101 is produced. The composite body is baked, for example, at 130° C. for 1 hour in the air.

[0047] 1.5 Humidity control device FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the humidity control device of the first embodiment.

[0048] The humidity control device 1 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3 includes a humidity control element 10, a circuit 140, a structure 143, and a blower mechanism 144. The circuit 140 includes a power source 161, a switch 162, a wiring 163, a wiring 164, and a wiring 165. The power source 161 includes a terminal 1611 and a terminal 1612. The switch 162 includes a terminal 1621 and a terminal 1622.

[0049] The wiring 163 electrically connects the terminal 1611 to the first electrode 102. The wiring 164 electrically connects the second electrode 103 to the terminal 1622. The wiring 165 electrically connects the terminal 1621 to the terminal 1612. Thereby, the wiring 163, the wiring 164, and the wiring 165 form a conduction path 171 from the terminal 1611 to the terminal 1612. The humidity control element 10 and the switch 162 are inserted into the formed conduction path 171.

[0050] The power source 161 generates a voltage between the terminal 1611 and the terminal 1612.

[0051] The switch 162 switches between a state where terminal 1622 is electrically connected to terminal 1621 and a state where terminal 1622 is not electrically connected to terminal 1621.

[0052] When terminal 1622 is conductive with terminal 1621, terminals 1611 and 1612 are electrically connected to the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103, respectively. Therefore, the voltage generated between terminals 1611 and 1612 is applied between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103. As a result, current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103. On the other hand, when terminal 1622 is not conductive with terminal 1621, terminal 1611 is electrically connected to the first electrode 102, but terminal 1612 is not electrically connected to the second electrode 103. Therefore, the voltage generated between terminals 1611 and 1612 is not applied between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103. As a result, no current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103.

[0053] As a result, the circuit 140 switches between a first state in which no current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103, and a second state in which current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103. In the first state, the humidity control element 10 adsorbs water molecules contained in the air. In the second state, the humidity control element 10 desorbs the adsorbed water molecules and incorporates them into the air.

[0054] The circuit 140 may have a configuration different from the one shown in Figure 3.

[0055] A flow channel 1430 is formed in the structure 143. Air to be treated 181 flows through the flow channel 1430. A humidity control element 10 is placed in the flow channel 1430. As a result, the humidity control element 10 comes into contact with the air to be treated 181. In the first state, the humidity control element 10 can adsorb water molecules contained in the air to be treated 181 and absorb moisture from the air to be treated 181. As a result, in the first state, when air with high humidity 190 flows into the flow channel 1430, air with low humidity 200 can be discharged from the flow channel 1430. On the other hand, in the second state, the humidity control element 10 can desorb the adsorbed water molecules and release moisture into the air to be treated 181. As a result, in the second state, when air with only low humidity flows into the flow channel 1430, air with high humidity can be discharged from the flow channel 1430. Therefore, the humidity control device 1 can adjust the humidity of the air 181 being treated, such as relative humidity and absolute humidity.

[0056] The flow path 1430 extends in the X direction. The air to be treated 181 flows in the +X direction. The main surfaces 111a and 111b of the base material 111 are oriented in the +Z and -Z directions, respectively, which are perpendicular to the +X direction in which the air to be treated 181 flows. As a result, the air to be treated 181 flows along the main surfaces 111a and 111b. The direction in which the main surfaces 111a and 111b are oriented may be changed.

[0057] The blowing mechanism 144 delivers air that constitutes the flow of the air 181 to be processed. The blowing mechanism 144 includes a fan that rotates to generate airflow and a fan motor that rotates the fan.

[0058] 1.6 Moisture Absorption Rate and Amount of Moisture Absorption in the Humidity Control Section Figure 4 is a graph showing the change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control section for Example 1, Example 2, Comparative Example 1, and Reference Example over time. In Figure 4, the horizontal axis represents elapsed time, and the vertical axis represents the weight increase rate.

[0059] (Example 1) A humidity control section 101 was prepared. The material constituting the carrier 121 was a zeolite whose main components were Fe, Al, P, and O. The amount of PEDOT / PSS was small enough so that the pores formed in the zeolite were not completely filled with PEDOT / PSS.

[0060] Next, the fabricated humidity control unit was baked at 90°C for 20 minutes to desorb the water adsorbed on the humidity control unit 101.

[0061] Next, the dry weight of the dehumidifying section 101, which is the weight after the water has been removed, was measured.

[0062] Next, the time change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control unit 101 was measured. The results are shown in Figure 4. In measuring the time change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control unit 101, the humidity control unit 101 was placed in a measurement environment with a temperature of 27 to 28°C and a relative humidity of 60 to 62%. The weight of the humidity control unit 101 was measured while it was placed in the measurement environment. The weight increase was calculated by subtracting the dry weight measured before the humidity control unit 101 was placed in the measurement environment from the weight measured while the humidity control unit 101 was placed in the measurement environment, and the weight increase rate was calculated as a weight percentage by dividing the calculated weight increase by the dry weight. In this way, the time change in the weight increase rate due to the time elapsed since the humidity control unit 101 was placed in the measurement environment was measured, as shown in Figure 4.

[0063] (Example 2) The humidity control section 101 was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the amount of PEDOT / PSS was large enough to completely fill the pores formed in the zeolite with PEDOT / PSS, and the change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control section 101 over time was measured. The results are shown in Figure 4.

[0064] (Comparative Example 1) A humidity control section was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that PEDOT / PSS was not supported on the zeolite, and the change in the weight increase rate of the prepared humidity control section over time was measured. The results are shown in Figure 4.

[0065] (Reference example) A PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane was fabricated, and the time change in the weight increase rate of the fabricated PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane was measured. The results are shown in Figure 4.

[0066] (Comparison) The weight increase rate is proportional to the amount of moisture absorbed. Therefore, Figure 4 can be considered identical to a graph showing the time change in the amount of moisture absorbed by the moisture control section 101 of Example 1, the moisture control section 101 of Example 2, the moisture control section of Comparative Example 1, and the PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane of the Reference Example.

[0067] As shown in Figure 4, immediately after placement in the measurement environment, the time change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control unit 101 of Example 1 and Example 2 is greater than the time change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control unit of Comparative Example 1. Therefore, immediately after the start of moisture absorption, the moisture absorption rate of the humidity control unit 101 of Example 1 and Example 2 is faster than the moisture absorption rate of the humidity control unit of Comparative Example 1. In other words, immediately after the start of moisture absorption, the amount of moisture absorbed per unit time by the humidity control unit 101 of Example 1 and Example 2 is greater than the amount of moisture absorbed per unit time by the humidity control unit 101 of Comparative Example 1.

[0068] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the weight increase rate of the humidity control unit 101 in Example 1 is greater than that of the humidity control unit in Comparative Example 1. Also, until about ten minutes have elapsed since being placed in the measurement environment, the weight increase rate of the humidity control unit 101 in Example 2 is greater than that of the humidity control unit in Comparative Example 1. For this reason, the amount of moisture absorbed by the humidity control unit 101 in Example 1 is greater than that of the humidity control unit in Comparative Example 1. Also, until about 10 minutes have elapsed since being placed in the measurement environment, the amount of moisture absorbed by the humidity control unit 101 in Example 2 is greater than that of the humidity control unit in Comparative Example 1. In general, many desiccant air conditioning systems repeat adsorption and desorption operations in cycles of a few minutes, so this example shows better moisture absorption rate and amount compared to Comparative Example 1.

[0069] From these findings, it can be understood that by supporting PEDOT / PSS on zeolite and compounding the zeolite and PEDOT / PSS, the moisture absorption rate of the humidity control section 101 can be increased, and the amount of moisture absorbed by the humidity control section 101 can be increased.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, immediately after placement in the measurement environment, the time change in the weight increase rate of the PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane in the reference example is significantly larger than the time change in the weight increase rate of the humidity control section in Comparative Example 1. For this reason, immediately after placement in the measurement environment, the moisture absorption rate of the PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane in the reference example is significantly faster than the moisture absorption rate of the humidity control section in Comparative Example 1. The reason why the moisture absorption rate of the PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane in the reference example is significantly faster than that of the humidity control section in Comparative Example 1 is thought to be because the PEDOT / PSS self-supporting membrane in the reference example adsorbs water molecules through hydrogen bonding between the sulfonic acid groups contained in PEDOT / PSS and water molecules. The reason why the moisture absorption rates of the humidity control section 101 in Example 1 and the humidity control section 101 in Example 2 are fast immediately after the start of moisture absorption is thought to be because the humidity control section 101 in Example 1 and the humidity control section 101 in Example 2 contain such PEDOT / PSS.

[0071] 1.7 Heat Generation of Humidity Control Elements Figure 5 is a graph showing the relationship between the voltage applied to the humidity control elements of Example 3, Comparative Example 2, and Comparative Example 3 and the surface temperature of the humidity control elements. In Figure 5, the horizontal axis represents the voltage applied to the humidity control elements, and the vertical axis represents the surface temperature of the humidity control elements.

[0072] (Example 3) A humidity control element 10 was fabricated. The humidity control material 112 consisted of zeolite, PEDOT / PSS, 4% by weight of ethylene glycol, and a pH adjuster, with the pH adjusted to 9 using the pH adjuster.

[0073] Next, the heat generated by the fabricated humidity control element 10 was measured. The results are shown in Figure 5. In measuring the heat generated by the humidity control element 10, a power supply was connected to the humidity control element 10, and a voltage was applied to the humidity control element 10 using the connected power supply. In addition, the surface temperature of the humidity control element 10 was measured while the voltage was applied to the humidity control element 10.

[0074] (Comparative Example 2) A humidity control element was fabricated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the materials constituting the humidity control material contained PEDOT / PSS and 5% by weight of ethylene glycol, with a pH of 2. The heat generated by the fabricated humidity control element was then measured. The results are shown in Figure 5.

[0075] (Comparative Example 3) A humidity control element was fabricated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the material constituting the humidity control material contained PEDOT / PSS, 4% by weight of ethylene glycol, and a pH adjuster, with the pH adjusted to 9 by the pH adjuster. The heat generated by the fabricated humidity control element was then measured. The results are shown in Figure 5.

[0076] (Comparison) As shown in Figure 5, when a voltage is applied to the humidity control element 10 of Example 3, the humidity control element of Comparative Example 2, and the humidity control element of Comparative Example 3, the surface temperatures of the humidity control element 10 of Example 3, the humidity control element of Comparative Example 2, and the humidity control element of Comparative Example 3 increase. From this, it can be understood that the humidity control element 10 of Example 3, the humidity control element of Comparative Example 2, and the humidity control element of Comparative Example 3 each generate Joule heat when a voltage is applied to them.

[0077] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the surface temperature of the humidity control element 10 in Example 3 falls within the temperature range in which water molecules can be desorbed when the voltage applied to the humidity control element 10 in Example 3 is set to approximately 8.0 to 12.0 V. The surface temperature of the humidity control element in Comparative Example 2 falls within the temperature range in which water molecules can be desorbed when the voltage applied to the humidity control element in Comparative Example 2 is set to approximately 5.0 to 6.5 V. The surface temperature of the humidity control element in Comparative Example 3 falls within the temperature range in which water molecules can be desorbed when the voltage applied to the humidity control element in Comparative Example 3 is set to approximately 5.5 to 7.5 V. From these observations, it can be understood that in the humidity control element 10 of Example 3, the zeolite is effectively heated because the material constituting the humidity control material 112 includes PEDOT / PSS.

[0078] 2. In the second and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the first embodiment will be used in the second embodiment.

[0079] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the second embodiment.

[0080] The humidity control device 2 of the second embodiment shown in Figure 6 comprises two humidity control elements, consisting of humidity control element 11 and humidity control element 12. The humidity control device 2 may also comprise three or more humidity control elements. Each humidity control element 10 included in humidity control element 11 and humidity control element 12 is the same type of humidity control element as the humidity control element 10 provided in the humidity control device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0081] In the humidity control device 2 of the second embodiment, the circuit 140 switches between a first state in which no current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 and a second state in which current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 for each humidity control element 10.

[0082] Humidity control elements 11 and 12 are arranged in the flow channel 1430 formed in the structure 143.

[0083] The humidity control elements 11 and 12 are arranged in the Z direction perpendicular to the +X direction through which the air to be treated 181 flows. Therefore, the humidity control elements 11 and 12 absorb moisture almost simultaneously. The humidity control elements 11 and 12 may also be arranged in the X direction parallel to the +X direction through which the air to be treated 181 flows. In this case, when the humidity control elements 11 and 12 are arranged in multiple stages, the humidity control elements located upstream of the flow of the air to be treated 181 absorb moisture first, followed by the humidity control elements located downstream of the flow of the air to be treated 181.

[0084] In the humidity control device 2 of the second embodiment, the required humidity control capacity for the humidity control device 2 can be achieved by increasing or decreasing the number of humidity control elements provided in the humidity control device 2.

[0085] 3. In the third embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that adopted in the first embodiment will be adopted in the third embodiment.

[0086] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the third embodiment.

[0087] The humidity control device 3 of the third embodiment shown in Figure 7 comprises two humidity control elements, consisting of humidity control element 11 and humidity control element 12, two circuits, consisting of circuit 141 and circuit 142, a flow path selection mechanism 145, and a controller 146. The humidity control device 3 may also comprise three or more humidity control elements and three or more circuits. In addition, in the humidity control device 3 of the third embodiment, two flow paths, consisting of flow path 1431 and flow path 1432, are formed in the structure 143. Three or more flow paths may be formed in the structure 143. Each humidity control element 10 included in humidity control element 11 and humidity control element 12 is the same humidity control element as the humidity control element 10 provided in the humidity control device 1 of the first embodiment. Each circuit 140 included in circuit 141 and circuit 142 is the same circuit as the circuit 140 provided in the humidity control device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0088] In the humidity control device 3 of the third embodiment, the humidity control element 11 and the humidity control element 12 are arranged in the flow channels 1431 and 1432 formed in the structure 143, respectively.

[0089] The flow path selection mechanism 145 selects a flow path from the flow paths 1431 and 1432 formed in the structure 143, through which the air supplied by the blowing mechanism 144 flows. The flow path selection mechanism 145 includes valves, dampers, etc.

[0090] The controller 146 controls the switches 162, the blower mechanism 144, and the flow path selection mechanism 145 provided in circuits 141 and 142.

[0091] The controller 146, for example, causes a switch 162 provided in the circuit 141 to prevent terminal 1622 from conducting with terminal 1621, and causes the flow path selection mechanism 145 to select flow path 1431. As a result, when air 191 with high humidity flows into flow path 1431, the humidity control element 11, to which no voltage is applied, adsorbs water molecules contained in the air 191 with high humidity. As a result, air 201 with low humidity flows out from flow path 1431.

[0092] Furthermore, the controller 146 causes, for example, a switch 162 provided in the circuit 142 to conduct electricity between terminal 1622 and terminal 1621, and causes the flow path selection mechanism 145 to select flow path 1432. As a result, when air 192 with low humidity flows into flow path 1432, the humidity control element 12 to which voltage is applied desorbs adsorbed water molecules and incorporates them into the air 192 with low humidity. As a result, air 202 with high humidity flows out from flow path 1432.

[0093] The controller 146 includes a microcontroller. The microcontroller includes a processor and memory. The processor causes the microcontroller to operate as the controller 146 by executing a control program stored in memory. Some or all of the processing performed by the microcontroller may be performed by a dedicated circuit.

[0094] In the humidity control device 3 of the third embodiment, continuous humidity control can be performed by appropriately combining a flow path for airflow and a humidity control element to which voltage is applied.

[0095] 4. In the fourth embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that adopted in the first embodiment will be adopted in the fourth embodiment.

[0096] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the fourth embodiment.

[0097] The humidity control device 4 of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 8 includes a second circuit 150 in addition to the first circuit 140, and a controller 146.

[0098] The second circuit 150 includes a switch 211, wiring 212 and wiring 213. The switch 211 includes terminals 2111 and 2112.

[0099] Wiring 212 electrically connects the second electrode 103 to terminal 2111. Wiring 213 electrically connects terminal 2112 to ground 221. As a result, wirings 212 and 213 form a conductive path 231 from the second electrode 103 to ground 221. The switch 211 is then inserted into the formed conductive path 231.

[0100] The switch 211 switches between a state in which terminal 2112 is electrically connected to terminal 2111 and a state in which terminal 2112 is not electrically connected to terminal 2111.

[0101] If terminal 2112 is electrically conductive with terminal 2111, the second electrode 103 is electrically connected to ground 221. On the other hand, if terminal 2112 is not electrically conductive with terminal 2111, the second electrode 103 is not electrically connected to ground 221.

[0102] As a result, the second circuit 150 switches between a third state in which the second electrode 103 is grounded and a fourth state in which neither the first electrode 102 nor the second electrode 103 is grounded. In the third state, the second circuit 150 may also ground the first electrode 102 in addition to or instead of the second electrode 103.

[0103] If at least one electrode selected from the group consisting of the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 is grounded, static electricity generated in the humidity control element 10 is discharged to the ground 221. This prevents static electricity from accumulating in the humidity control element 10 when air with low humidity flows into the flow path 1430 and static electricity is generated in the humidity control element 10. This prevents damage to the humidity control element 10 due to accumulated static electricity. For example, it prevents the humidity control material 112 from peeling off the base material 111. This extends the lifespan of the humidity control element 10.

[0104] The controller 146 controls switches 162 and 211.

[0105] The controller 146, for example, causes switch 162 to prevent terminal 1622 from conducting with terminal 1621, and causes switch 211 to conduct with terminal 2112. As a result, when air 190 with high humidity flows into the flow path 1430, the dehumidifying element 10, to which no voltage is applied, adsorbs water molecules contained in the air 190 with high humidity. This causes air 200 with low humidity to flow out from the flow path 1431. In addition, when air with low humidity flows into the flow path 1430, static electricity does not accumulate on the grounded dehumidifying element 10.

[0106] Furthermore, the controller 146 causes, for example, switch 1622 to conduct to terminal 1621, and switch 2112 to not conduct to terminal 2111. As a result, when air with low humidity flows into the flow path 1430, the humidity control element 10 to which voltage is applied desorbs adsorbed water molecules and incorporates them into the air with low humidity. As a result, air with high humidity flows out of the flow path 1430.

[0107] The controller 146 includes a microcontroller. The microcontroller includes a processor and memory. The processor causes the microcontroller to operate as the controller 146 by executing a control program stored in memory. Some or all of the processing performed by the microcontroller may be performed by a dedicated circuit.

[0108] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing flow performed by the humidity control device of the fourth embodiment.

[0109] When the humidity control device 4 performs humidity control, it executes steps S1 to S3 shown in Figure 9.

[0110] In step S1, the controller 146 starts supplying air to the blower mechanism 144. As a result, the air to be processed 181 flows through the flow path 1430 and comes into contact with the humidity control element 10 located in the flow path 1430.

[0111] In the following step S2, the controller 146 causes switch 162 to open the conduction path 171 by causing terminal 1622 to not conduct with terminal 1621. The controller 146 also causes switch 211 to close the conduction path 231 by causing terminal 2112 to conduct with terminal 2111. As a result, the first circuit 140 is in a first state in which no current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103. The second circuit 150 is then placed in a third state in which the second electrode 103 is grounded. As a result, no current flows through the humidity control element 10, and the humidity control element 10 is grounded. As a result, the humidity control element 10 adsorbs water molecules contained in the air 181 being treated. Static electricity generated in the humidity control element 10 at this time is discharged to the ground 221 by the second circuit 150. This prevents static electricity from accumulating in the humidity control element 10 and damaging it. As a result, the humidity control element 10 can stably control humidity over a long period of time.

[0112] In the following step S3, the controller 146 causes the switch 162 to make terminal 1622 conductive with terminal 1621, thereby closing the conductive path 171. The controller 146 also causes the switch 211 to make terminal 2112 incompatible with terminal 2111, thereby opening the conductive path 231. As a result, the first circuit 140 is in a second state in which current flows between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103. The second circuit 150 is in a fourth state in which the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 are not grounded. As a result, current flows through the humidity control element 10, and the humidity control element 10 is no longer grounded. As a result, the humidity control element 10 desorbs the adsorbed water molecules and incorporates them into the air 181 being treated. This allows the humidity control element 10 to be regenerated.

[0113] After step S3 is executed, step S2 is executed again. This causes steps S2 and S3 to be executed alternately. This allows moisture absorption by the humidity control element 10 and regeneration of the humidity control element 10 to be performed alternately, enabling moisture absorption over a long period of time.

[0114] In the humidity control device 4 of the fourth embodiment, the lifespan of the humidity control element 10 can be extended.

[0115] 5. In the fifth embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the fifth embodiment and the first embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the first embodiment will be used in the fifth embodiment.

[0116] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the fifth embodiment. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the humidity control device of the fifth embodiment.

[0117] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, in the humidity control device 5 of the fifth embodiment, the base material 111 comprises a plurality of corrugated plates 241 and a plurality of flat plates 242.

[0118] Multiple corrugated plates 241 and multiple flat plates 242 are stacked in the Y direction. The corrugated plates 241 and flat plates 242 are arranged alternately. Multiple corrugated plates 241 have a corrugated structure. As a result, multiple through holes 111h are formed in the base material 111, and the base material 111 has a honeycomb structure. Each of the multiple through holes 111h is formed between adjacent corrugated plates 241 and flat plates 242 and extends in the Z direction, which is perpendicular to the Y direction in which the multiple corrugated plates 241 and multiple flat plates 242 are stacked. As a result, the air flowing through the channel in which the humidity control element 10 is located flows through the through holes 111h and passes through the base material 111. This increases the contact area between the air to be treated 181 and the base material 111. This increases the humidity control capacity of the humidity control element 10.

[0119] 6. In the sixth embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the sixth embodiment and the second embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the second embodiment will be used in the sixth embodiment.

[0120] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the humidity control device of the sixth embodiment.

[0121] In the humidity control device 6 of the sixth embodiment shown in Figure 12, similar to the humidity control device 5 of the fifth embodiment, the base material 111 is a base material comprising a plurality of corrugated plates 241 and a plurality of flat plates 242.

[0122] Furthermore, the main surfaces 111a and 111b of the substrate 111 are oriented in the -X and +X directions, respectively, which are parallel to the +X direction through which the air to be treated 181 flows. In addition, the humidity control element 11 is positioned such that the through hole 111h extends in the X direction. As a result, the air to be treated 181 passes through the substrate 111.

[0123] Furthermore, the humidity control elements 11 and 12 are arranged in the X direction parallel to the +X direction through which the air to be treated 181 flows. When the humidity control elements 11 and 12 are arranged in multiple stages in this manner, the humidity control element 11, which is positioned upstream of the flow of the air to be treated 181, absorbs moisture first, followed by the humidity control element 12, which is positioned downstream of the flow of the air to be treated 181.

[0124] In the sixth embodiment, similar to the second embodiment, the required humidity control capacity for the humidity control device 6 can be achieved by increasing or decreasing the number of humidity control elements provided in the humidity control device 6.

[0125] 7. In the seventh embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the seventh embodiment and the third embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the third embodiment will be used in the seventh embodiment.

[0126] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the humidity control device of the seventh embodiment.

[0127] In the humidity control device 7 of the seventh embodiment shown in Figure 13, similar to the humidity control device 5 of the fifth embodiment, the base material 111 is a base material comprising a plurality of corrugated plates 241 and a plurality of flat plates 242.

[0128] Furthermore, the main surfaces 111a and 111b of the substrate 111 are oriented in the -X and +X directions, respectively, which are parallel to the +X direction through which the air to be treated 181 flows. In addition, the humidity control element 10 is positioned so that the through hole 111h extends in the X direction. As a result, the air to be treated 181 passes through the substrate 111.

[0129] In the seventh embodiment, similar to the third embodiment, continuous humidity control can be performed by appropriately combining a flow path for airflow and a humidity control element to which voltage is applied.

[0130] 8. In the eighth embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the eighth embodiment and the fourth embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the fourth embodiment will be used in the eighth embodiment.

[0131] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the humidity control device of the eighth embodiment.

[0132] In the humidity control device 8 of the eighth embodiment shown in Figure 14, similar to the humidity control device 5 of the fifth embodiment, the base material 111 is a base material comprising a plurality of corrugated plates 241 and a plurality of flat plates 242.

[0133] Furthermore, the main surfaces 111a and 111b of the substrate 111 are oriented in the -X and +X directions, respectively, which are parallel to the +X direction through which the air to be treated 181 flows. In addition, the humidity control element 11 is positioned such that the through hole 111h extends in the X direction. As a result, the air to be treated 181 passes through the substrate 111.

[0134] In the eighth embodiment, similar to the fourth embodiment, the lifespan of the humidity control element 10 can be extended.

[0135] 9. In the ninth embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the ninth embodiment and the first embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the first embodiment will be used in the ninth embodiment.

[0136] Figure 15A is a schematic bottom view illustrating the bottom surface of a humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. Figure 15B is a schematic side view illustrating the outer circumferential surface of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow D in Figure 15A. Figure 15C is a schematic side view illustrating the outer circumferential surface of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow E in Figure 15A. Figure 15D is a schematic side view illustrating the outer circumferential surface of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow F in Figure 15A. Figure 15E is a schematic side view illustrating the outer circumferential surface of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow G in Figure 15A.

[0137] The humidity control element 10 provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as shown in Figures 15A to 15E, has a cylindrical external shape, similar to a general desiccant roller. A through hole 10h is formed in the humidity control element 10. The through hole 10h is formed on the central axis of the humidity control element 10 and extends in the axial direction of the humidity control element 10. Therefore, the surface 10s of the humidity control element 10 includes the bottom surface 10v, the outer peripheral surface 10w, and the inner peripheral surface 10x.

[0138] As shown in Figures 15A to 15E, the humidity control element 10 has eight divided sections 251. The number of divided sections 251 provided in the humidity control element 10 may be increased or decreased.

[0139] The eight divisions 251 are obtained by equally dividing the humidity control element 10 in the circumferential direction and are arranged in the circumferential direction of the humidity control element 10. Two adjacent divisions 251 included in the eight divisions 251 are electrically insulated from each other. This makes it possible to suppress the flow of current in other divisions 251 included in the eight divisions 251 when current flows in one division 251 included in the eight divisions 251.

[0140] Figure 16A is a schematic bottom view illustrating the bottom surface configuration of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. Figure 16B is a schematic side view illustrating the outer peripheral surface configuration of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow H in Figure 16A. Figure 16C is a schematic side view illustrating one side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow I in Figure 16A. Figure 16D is a schematic side view illustrating the inner peripheral surface configuration, one side, and the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow J in Figure 16A. Figure 16E is a schematic side view illustrating the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow K in Figure 16A.

[0141] Each of the eight divided sections 251 has an outer peripheral surface 251w, an inner peripheral surface 251x, one side 251y, and the other side 251z. The outer peripheral surface 251w constitutes the outer peripheral surface 10w of the humidity control element 10. The inner peripheral surface 251x constitutes the inner peripheral surface 10x of the humidity control element 10. One side 251y faces one of the two adjacent divided sections 251. The other side 251z faces the other of the two adjacent divided sections 251.

[0142] Each divided section 251, similar to the humidity control element 10 of the first embodiment, is equipped with a humidity control section 101, a first electrode 102, and a second electrode 103, and is equipped with a humidity control material 112 (not shown).

[0143] The first electrode 102 is positioned across the outer circumferential surface 251w and one side surface 251y. The second electrode 103 is positioned across the outer circumferential surface 251w and the other side surface 251z.

[0144] Figure 17 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the divided section, the first contact electrode, and the second contact electrode provided in the humidity control device of the ninth embodiment.

[0145] The humidity control device 9 of the ninth embodiment shown in Figure 17 comprises a humidity control element 10, a circuit 140, and a rotating mechanism 261. The circuit 140 comprises a first contact electrode 271 and a second contact electrode 272. The circuit 140 also comprises a power supply 161 (not shown).

[0146] The power supply 161 is electrically connected to the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272, and applies a voltage between the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272.

[0147] The first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272 are brush-type electrodes. The tips of the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272 are in contact with the outer surface 10w of the humidity control element 10.

[0148] The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 make contact with the tips of the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272, respectively, when each divided portion 251 is positioned at a specific circumferential position facing the tips of the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272. Therefore, a voltage is applied to the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 when each divided portion 251 is positioned at a specific circumferential position, and no voltage is applied when each divided portion 251 is positioned at a circumferential position other than the specific circumferential position. For this reason, the circuit 140 allows current to flow between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 when each divided portion 251 is positioned at a specific circumferential position, and does not allow current to flow between the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 when each divided portion 251 is positioned at a circumferential position other than the specific circumferential position.

[0149] The rotating mechanism 261 rotates the humidity control element 10 around its central axis in the circumferential direction of the humidity control element 10. This causes the rotating mechanism 261 to sequentially scan the first electrodes 102 provided in the eight divided sections 251 with the first contact electrode 271, and to sequentially scan the second electrodes 103 provided in the eight divided sections 251 with the second contact electrode 272. The circuit 140 also applies a voltage between the first electrode 102 being scanned by the first contact electrode 271 and the second electrode 103 being scanned by the second contact electrode 272. This allows current to flow sequentially through the eight divided sections 251, causing Joule heat to be generated sequentially in the eight divided sections 251.

[0150] When humidity control is performed by the humidity control device 9, air is blown by a blower mechanism 144 (not shown) and passed through the humidity control element 10. A power supply 161 (not shown) applies a voltage between the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272. A rotation mechanism 261 rotates the humidity control element 10 in the circumferential direction. As a result, one of the eight divided sections 251 generates Joule heat and desorbs adsorbed water molecules, while the remaining seven divided sections 251 do not generate Joule heat and adsorb water molecules. The one divided section 251 that generates Joule heat changes sequentially.

[0151] In the humidity control device 9 of the ninth embodiment, the divided section 251 that desorbs water molecules and the divided section 251 that adsorbs water molecules can be mechanically changed, thereby increasing the efficiency of moisture absorption and release.

[0152] 10. In the tenth embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the differences between the tenth embodiment and the ninth embodiment will be explained. For aspects not explained, the same configuration as that used in the ninth embodiment will be used in the tenth embodiment.

[0153] Figure 19A is a schematic bottom view illustrating the bottom surface configuration of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment. Figure 19B is a schematic side view illustrating the outer peripheral surface configuration of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow L drawn in Figure 19A. Figure 19C is a schematic side view illustrating one side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow M drawn in Figure 19A. Figure 19D is a schematic side view illustrating the inner peripheral surface configuration, one side, and the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow N drawn in Figure 19A. Figure 19E is a schematic side view illustrating the other side of each divided portion of the humidity control element provided in the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow P drawn in Figure 19A.

[0154] Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the divided sections of the humidity control element, the first contact electrode, and the second contact electrode provided in the humidity control device of the tenth embodiment.

[0155] As shown in Figures 19A to 19E and Figure 20, in the humidity control device of the tenth embodiment, the first electrode 102 is positioned on the outer circumferential surface 251w. The second electrode 103 is positioned on the inner circumferential surface 251x. The tips of the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272 contact the outer circumferential surface 10w and the inner circumferential surface 10x of the humidity control element 10, respectively. The first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 contact the tips of the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272, respectively, when each divided portion 251 is positioned at a specific circumferential position facing the tips of the first contact electrode 271 and the second contact electrode 272.

[0156] Whether the area occupied by the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 in the humidity control device 9 of the ninth embodiment is larger than the area occupied by the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 in the humidity control device of the tenth embodiment depends on the shape of the humidity control element 10, for example, the aspect ratio of the humidity control element 10. For this reason, the arrangement of the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 is selected so as to increase the area occupied by the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103, depending on the shape of the humidity control element 10.

[0157] In the humidity control device of the 10th embodiment, similar to the humidity control device 9 of the 9th embodiment, the dividing section 251 that desorbs water molecules and the dividing section 251 that adsorbs water molecules can be automatically changed, thereby increasing the efficiency of moisture absorption and release.

[0158] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and may be replaced with configurations that are substantially the same as those shown in the embodiments, configurations that produce the same effects, or configurations that can achieve the same purpose.

[0159] 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 Humidity control device, 10, 11, 12 Humidity control element, 10h Through hole, 10s Surface, 10v Bottom surface, 10w Outer surface, 10x Inner surface, 101 Humidity control section, 102 First electrode, 103 Second electrode, 111 Substrate, 111a, 111b Main surface, 111c End surface, 111h Through hole, 112 Humidity control material, 121 Carrier, 121a Surface, 122 Carrier body, 131 Ceramic sheet, 132 First PEDOT / PSS liquid, 133 Second PEDOT / PSS liquid, 134 Composite, 140, 141, 142 Circuit, 143 Structure, 1430, 1431, 1432 Flow channel, 144 145 Air blowing mechanism, 146 Flow path selection mechanism, 146 Controller, 150 Second circuit, 161 Power supply, 1611, 1612 Terminals, 162 Switch, 1621, 1622 Terminals, 163, 164, 165 Wiring, 171 Conductive path, 181 Air to be processed, 190, 191, 202 Air with high humidity, 192, 200, 201 Air with low humidity, 211 Switch, 2111, 2112 Terminals, 212, 213 Wiring, 221 Ground, 231 Conductive path, 241 Corrugated plate, 242 Flat plate, 251 Divided section, 251w Outer peripheral surface, 251x Inner peripheral surface, 251y One side, 251z The other side, 261 Rotating mechanism, 271 First contact electrode, 272 The second contact electrode.

Claims

1. A humidity control element comprising: a carrier having a surface in contact with air and adsorbing and desorbing a first water molecule; and a supported body supported on the surface, containing a conductive polymer and adsorbing and desorbing a second water molecule.

2. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the carrier physically adsorbs the first water molecule.

3. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a porous body.

4. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the carrier comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of zeolite, silica gel, and activated carbon.

5. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the carrier has a particulate shape.

6. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the supported material chemically adsorbs the second water molecule.

7. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the conductive polymer comprises poly(2,3-dihydrothieno-1,4-dioxin) and poly(styrene sulfonate).

8. The humidity control element according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the weight of the carrier to the weight of the supported body is 0.05 or more and 0.5 or less.

9. The humidity control element according to claim 1, comprising a conductive substrate having a substrate surface, wherein the carrier is attached to the substrate surface.

10. The humidity control element according to claim 9, wherein the substrate generates Joule heat corresponding to the current flowing through the substrate.

11. The humidity control element according to claim 9, wherein the conductive polymer is a first conductive polymer, and the substrate comprises a second conductive polymer.

12. The humidity control element according to claim 11, wherein the second conductive polymer comprises poly(2,3-dihydrothieno-1,4-dioxin) and poly(styrene sulfonate).

13. The humidity control element according to claim 9, wherein the substrate has a corrugated structure.

14. A humidity control element according to claim 9, comprising: a first electrode in contact with the substrate; and a second electrode in contact with the substrate.

15. A humidity control device comprising at least one humidity control element, a circuit, wherein the humidity control element included in the at least one humidity control element comprises a conductive substrate having a substrate surface, a carrier adhering to the substrate surface and having a surface in contact with air, adsorbing and adsorbing first water molecules, a supported body supported on the surface, containing a conductive polymer, adsorbing and desorbing second water molecules, a first electrode in contact with the substrate, and a second electrode in contact with the substrate, wherein the circuit conducts an electric current between the first electrode and the second electrode.

16. The humidity control device according to claim 15, wherein the circuit switches between a first state in which no current flows between the first electrode and the second electrode, and a second state in which current flows between the first electrode and the second electrode.

17. The humidity control device according to claim 15, wherein the circuit is a first circuit and comprises a second circuit that switches between a third state in which at least one selected from the group consisting of the first electrode and the second electrode is grounded, and a fourth state in which the first electrode and the second electrode are not grounded.

18. The humidity control device according to claim 17, further comprising a controller that alternately performs the following actions: setting the first circuit to the first state and the second circuit to the third state, and setting the first circuit to the second state and the second circuit to the fourth state.

19. A humidity control device according to claim 15, comprising a structure having at least one flow path formed therein, wherein the at least one humidity control element is arranged in the at least one flow path.

20. The humidity control device according to claim 19, wherein the at least one humidity control element is a plurality of humidity control elements, the at least one flow path is a plurality of flow paths, and the plurality of humidity control elements are arranged in each of the plurality of flow paths.

21. The humidity control device according to claim 20, comprising: a blowing mechanism for supplying air; and a flow path selection mechanism for selecting a flow path from the plurality of flow paths through which the air flows.

22. The humidity control device according to claim 15, wherein the humidity control element has a cylindrical external shape and comprises a plurality of divided parts arranged in the circumferential direction and electrically insulated from each other, each divided part comprising the base material, the carrier, the supported body, the first electrode and the second electrode, the circuit comprising a first contact electrode and a second contact electrode, and a rotation mechanism for rotating the humidity control element in the circumferential direction, the first electrode and the second electrode respectively contact the first contact electrode and the second contact electrode when each humidity control part is positioned at a specific circumferential position.

23. A humidity control method comprising: adsorbing water molecules onto a humidity control element according to any one of claims 1 to 14; and desorbing the water molecules onto the humidity control element.

24. The humidity control method according to claim 23, wherein adsorbing the water molecules includes grounding the humidity control element, and desorbing the water molecules includes passing an electric current through the humidity control element.

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