Dehumidifier

Abstract

A liquid moisture absorbing / releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture from or to air flowing within a housing 10 circulates in a flow passage 20. A moisture releasing unit 22 is disposed on the flow passage 20 and releases moisture from the liquid moisture absorbing / releasing material to air introduced through an inlet port 12. A condensate water recovery unit 40 recovers at least a portion of moisture contained in the air that has passed through the moisture releasing unit 22 as condensate water. A moisture absorbing unit 28 is disposed on the flow passage 20 and absorbs moisture remaining in the air that has passed through the condensate water recovery unit 40. A heat exchange unit 24 is disposed on the flow passage 20, and executes heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorbing / releasing material that has passed through the moisture absorbing unit 28 and the liquid moisture absorbing / releasing material that has passed through the moisture releasing unit 22. The liquid moisture absorbing / releasing material moves moisture from the moisture absorbing unit 28 to the moisture releasing unit 22 by circulating and flowing through the moisture releasing unit 22 and the moisture absorbing unit 28 disposed on the flow passage 20.

Description

Dehumidifying device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dehumidifying device that removes moisture contained in the air.

[0002] A dehumidifying device including a dehumidifying rotor and a heater takes in air from the outside and performs dehumidification by adsorbing the moisture in the taken-in air onto the dehumidifying rotor. The dehumidifying rotor that has adsorbed moisture releases the moisture by being heated by the heater (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-131786

[0004] When a solid desiccant material is used for the dehumidifying rotor, in order to release the moisture adsorbed on the dehumidifying rotor, heating at 100°C or higher is required for the heater. Such high-temperature heating increases power consumption. Also, improvement in moisture absorption performance is desired.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure solves the above-described conventional problems and aims to provide a technique for reducing the power consumption for dehumidification. Also, it aims to provide a technique for reducing the power consumption for dehumidification and improving the moisture absorption performance.

[0006] To solve the above problems, a dehumidifying device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a housing having a suction port and a blowout port, a flow path in which a liquid moisture adsorbent / desorbent material that is disposed in the housing and can absorb or release moisture with respect to the air flowing through the housing circulates, a dehumidifying part that is disposed on the flow path and releases moisture from the liquid moisture adsorbent / desorbent material with respect to the air introduced from the suction port, a dew condensation water recovery part that recovers at least a part of the moisture contained in the air that has passed through the dehumidifying part as dew condensation water, a moisture absorption part that is disposed on the flow path and absorbs the moisture remaining in the air that has passed through the dew condensation water recovery part, and a heat exchange part that is disposed on the flow path and performs heat exchange between the liquid moisture adsorbent / desorbent material that has passed through the moisture absorption part and the liquid moisture adsorbent / desorbent material that has passed through the dehumidifying part. The liquid moisture adsorbent / desorbent material moves moisture from the moisture absorption part to the dehumidifying part by circulating through the dehumidifying part and the moisture absorption part disposed on the flow path.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure is also a dehumidifier. This device comprises a housing having an intake port and an outlet port; a flow path disposed within the housing through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to air flowing within the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing section disposed on the flow path and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to air introduced from the intake port; a condensation water recovery section that recovers at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section as condensation water; a moisture-absorbing section disposed on the flow path and absorbing any remaining moisture in the air that has flowed through the condensation water recovery section; and a heat exchange section disposed on the flow path and performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section and the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section. The moisture absorption capacity of the moisture-absorbing section is set higher than the moisture release capacity of the moisture-releasing section.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure is also a dehumidifying device. This device comprises a housing; a flow path through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to air flowing inside the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing air passage through which air introduced from outside the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing section located on the flow path and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-releasing air passage; a moisture-absorbing air passage located inside the housing separately from the moisture-releasing air passage and through which air introduced from outside the housing circulates; a moisture-absorbing section located on the flow path and absorbing moisture contained in the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage into the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material; a heating section located on the flow path and heating the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has circulated through the moisture-absorbing section and introducing it to the moisture-releasing section; and a heat exchange section located across the moisture-releasing air passage and the moisture-absorbing air passage and performing heat exchange between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage that has circulated through the moisture-releasing section and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage before it circulates through the moisture-absorbing section.

[0009] Furthermore, any combination of the above components, as well as any conversion of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, recording media, computer programs, etc., are also valid forms of this disclosure.

[0010] According to this disclosure, power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. Furthermore, power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced while simultaneously improving moisture absorption performance.

[0011] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 1. Figure 2 shows the change in state on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier according to Figure 1. Figure 3 shows an example of the installation of the dehumidifier according to Figure 1. Figure 4 shows another example of the installation of the dehumidifier according to Figure 1. Figure 5 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 2. Figure 5 shows the change in state on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier according to Figure 5. Figure 4 shows the vapor pressure curve of the liquid moisture absorber used in the dehumidifier according to Example 3. Figure 5 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 4. Figure 8 shows the change in state on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier according to Figure 8. Figure 5 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 5 (first example). Figure 5 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 5 (second example). Figure 6 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 5 (third example). Figure 7 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 5 (fourth example). Figure 8 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 5 (first example). Figure 9 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 6 (second example). Figure 10 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier according to Example 6 (third example).

[0012] (Example 1) Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are examples that embody the present disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure. The figures described in the embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. In addition, the same reference numerals are used for the same components throughout all drawings and their descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in each drawing, details of parts that are not directly related to the present disclosure are omitted from the description.

[0013] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100. The dehumidifier 100 includes a housing 10, an intake port 12, an outlet port 14, a flow path 20, a moisture release section 22, a heat exchange section 24, a cooling section 26, a moisture absorption section 28, a drive section 30, a heating section 32, a condensation water recovery section 40, and a blower section 42. The housing 10 has, for example, a box shape and is of the type of household electrical appliance, and is used when installed indoors. The housing 10 also has an intake port 12 and an outlet port 14 as openings.

[0014] A flow path 20 is arranged inside the housing 10. The flow path 20 is a tube through which a liquid desiccant flows. The liquid desiccant is a liquid that can absorb or release moisture to the air flowing inside the housing 10. Examples of liquid desiccants include aqueous solutions of hygroscopic inorganic salts (such as lithium chloride solution, potassium formate solution, lithium bromide solution, calcium chloride solution, etc.) and organic compound solutions (such as triethylene glycol). Here, as an example, we assume a relatively safe potassium formate solution. The concentration of the potassium formate solution is, for example, 50-65%.

[0015] Liquid moisture absorbers and release moisture based on the water vapor pressure difference with the air. The temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch in a liquid moisture absorber and release material varies depending on the concentration of the potassium formate solution. More specifically, a lower concentration of potassium formate solution results in a lower temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch, while a higher concentration results in a higher temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch. For example, if the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the potassium formate solution concentration is 50-65%, moisture absorption and release switch at around 30°C. In other words, if the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the potassium formate solution concentration is 50-65%, moisture absorption occurs at temperatures below around 30°C, and moisture release occurs at temperatures above around 30°C. When a liquid moisture absorber and release material is heated, its water vapor pressure increases, and the material releases moisture. On the other hand, when a liquid desiccant is cooled, its water vapor pressure decreases, and the liquid desiccant absorbs moisture. Liquid desiccants can release moisture at lower temperatures than solid desiccants.

[0016] The flow path 20 is arranged in a ring shape. The following components are arranged in order on the flow path 20: a moisture release section 22, a heat exchange section 24, a cooling section 26, a moisture absorption section 28, a drive section 30, a heat exchange section 24, a heating section 32, and a moisture release section 22.

[0017] When the dehumidifier 100 is started, the air drawn in from the intake port 12 flows along the main airflow path 50 to the moisture absorption section 28, and the process begins with the absorption of moisture contained in the drawn-in air. Therefore, the liquid moisture absorption and release material circulates in the following order: moisture absorption section 28, drive section 30, heat exchange section 24, heating section 32, moisture release section 22, heat exchange section 24, cooling section 26, and moisture absorption section 28. After the dehumidifier 100 is started and the circulation of the liquid moisture absorption and release material begins, the air drawn in from the intake port 12 flows along the main airflow path 50 to the moisture release section 22, and the process begins with the release of moisture into the drawn-in air. Therefore, the liquid moisture absorption and release material circulates in the following order: moisture release section 22, heat exchange section 24, cooling section 26, moisture absorption section 28, drive section 30, heat exchange section 24, heating section 32, and moisture release section 22. The circulation flow rate is, for example, several hundred mL to several L / min.

[0018] The intake port 12 draws air from outside the housing 10 into the housing 10. Outside the housing 10 refers to, for example, the indoor space. The air drawn in from the intake port 12 flows along the main air passage 50 to the dehumidification section 22. The dehumidification section 22 is positioned on the flow path 20 and releases moisture from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air introduced from the intake port 12. This corresponds to the liquid dehumidifying material coming into contact with the air and releasing moisture into the air. The dehumidification section 22 is composed of a moisture-permeable membrane that allows water vapor to pass through but not liquid to pass through, in order to prevent the liquid dehumidifying material from scattering. This prevents the loss of the liquid dehumidifying material and also prevents the scattering of the liquid dehumidifying material. The dehumidification section 22 has a configuration in which the liquid dehumidifying material flows inside the moisture-permeable membrane and air flows to the outside. For example, the dehumidification section 22 is an element type with stacked moisture-permeable membranes or a hollow fiber membrane type.

[0019] The air that has absorbed moisture in the dehumidification section 22 flows along the main air passage 50 to the condensation water collection section 40. The condensation water collection section 40 cools the air that has flowed through the dehumidification section 22 to below the dew point temperature and collects at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air as condensation water in a drainage tank (not shown). The air is cooled, for example, by passing cooled water through a tube equipped with aluminum fins. Alternatively, the air may be cooled by heat exchange with the circulating air. The condensation water collection section 40 may generate more condensation water than the moisture released in the dehumidification section 22. In this case, the air is further cooled. When a certain amount of condensation water has accumulated in the drainage tank, the dehumidifier 100 may notify the user and drain the tank.

[0020] The heat exchange section 24 is positioned on the flow path 20 and performs heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section 28 and the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22. Here, the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22 is higher than the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section 28. Therefore, through heat exchange, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22 is cooled, and the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section 28 is heated. The heat exchange section 24 is, for example, a plate-type or double-tube-type heat exchanger and performs heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material. The role of the heat exchange section 24 will be described later.

[0021] The cooling unit 26 is positioned on the flow path 20 and cools the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater that flows through the heat exchange unit 24 and is then introduced into the moisture absorption unit 28. The cooling unit 26 is, for example, a Peltier element and cools the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater so that its temperature is the same as or lower than the temperature of the air. If the air after passing through the condensation water recovery unit 40 is 3°C, the cooling unit 26 cools the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater to about 3°C. Since the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater absorbs moisture more easily at lower temperatures, it is cooled to increase its moisture absorption capacity.

[0022] The air that has released condensation water through cooling in the condensation water recovery section 40 flows along the main air passage 50 to the moisture absorption section 28. The moisture absorption section 28 is positioned on the flow path and absorbs any remaining moisture in the air that has flowed through the condensation water recovery section 40. This corresponds to the liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier coming into contact with the air and absorbing moisture from it. The moisture absorption section 28 is configured similarly to the moisture release section 22.

[0023] The air blower unit 42 comprises a motor (not shown) and a fan (not shown) connected to the motor's rotating shaft for drawing in and exhausting air. The air blower unit 42 forms an airflow along the main air passage 50 inside the housing 10. In other words, the operation of the air blower unit 42 causes air to flow in the following order: intake port 12, dehumidification port 22, condensation water collection port 40, dehumidification port 28, air blower unit 42, and outlet port 14. The outlet port 14 blows air from the inside of the housing 10 to the outside of the housing 10. The airflow of the air blower unit 42 is designed, for example, according to the required dehumidification amount or clothes drying capacity.

[0024] The drive unit 30 supplies power to circulate the liquid moisture absorber in the flow path 20. The drive unit 30 is, for example, a pump.

[0025] The heating unit 32 is positioned on the flow path 20 and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows through the moisture-absorbing unit 28 and is then introduced into the moisture-releasing unit 22. The heating unit 32 is, for example, a Peltier element and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material so that its temperature is higher than the temperature of the air. For example, if the air temperature is 10°C, the cooling unit 26 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to about 25°C. Since the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material releases moisture more easily at higher temperatures, it is heated to increase its moisture-releasing capacity.

[0026] Here, the role of the heat exchange section 24 will be explained. The heat exchange section 24 is provided to suppress the heat load on the cooling section 26 and the heating section 32. If the heat exchange section 24 is not provided, the cooling section 26 would have to cool the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from 25°C to 3°C in order to bring it down to 3°C. In addition, the heating section 32 would have to heat the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from 3°C to 25°C in order to bring it down to 22°C.

[0027] On the other hand, if a heat exchange unit 24 is provided, heating and cooling can be performed without using electricity through heat exchange by the heat exchange unit 24, and heating and cooling by, for example, 10°C can be performed. When reducing the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from 25°C after passing through the moisture-releasing unit 22 to 3°C, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows into the heat exchange unit 24 is cooled from 25°C to 15°C by heat exchange, so the cooling unit 26 only needs to cool by 12°C (a temperature difference of 12°C) from 15°C to 3°C. Also, when heating the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from 3°C after passing through the moisture-absorbing unit 28 to 25°C, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows into the heat exchange unit 24 is heated from 3°C to 13°C by heat exchange, so the heating unit 32 only needs to heat by 12°C (a temperature difference of 12°C) from 13°C to 25°C. In other words, when a heat exchange unit 24 is provided, the temperature difference for cooling and heating can be reduced compared to when a heat exchange unit 24 is not provided. Therefore, when the heat exchange unit 24 is provided, the heat load on the cooling unit 26 and the heating unit 32 can be suppressed compared to when the heat exchange unit 24 is not provided.

[0028] The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material circulates through the moisture-releasing section 22 and moisture-absorbing section 28, which are arranged on the flow path 20. As a result, the moisture absorbed from the air in the moisture-absorbing section 28 is transported to the moisture-releasing section 22, where it is released back into the air.

[0029] The air drawn in through the intake port 12 receives moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material in the moisture-releasing section 22, and is cooled to below the dew point temperature in the condensation water recovery section 40, releasing the moisture as condensation water. Subsequently, the air releases moisture to the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material in the moisture-absorbing section 28, and the dehumidified air is released from the outlet 14.

[0030] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the state changes on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier 100. The horizontal axis shows the dry-bulb temperature (temperature), with the dry-bulb temperature increasing as you move to the right on the horizontal axis. The vertical axis shows the absolute humidity, with the absolute humidity increasing as you move upward on the vertical axis. Point P1 shows the state of the air before it flows into the dehumidification section 22 after being drawn in from the intake port 12. Point P2 shows the state of the air before it flows out from the dehumidification section 22 and into the condensation water collection section 40. Point P3 shows the state of the air after it has flowed into the condensation water collection section 40 and cooled to the dew point temperature. Point P4 shows the state of the air before it flows out from the condensation water collection section 40 and into the dehumidification section 28. Point P5 shows the state of the air after it has flowed out from the dehumidification section 28. In Example 1, point P5 also shows the state of the air blown out from the outlet 14.

[0031] From point P1 to point P2, the absolute humidity increases as the air absorbs moisture from the liquid dehumidifier in the dehumidification section 22. Additionally, the temperature of the liquid dehumidifier is heated by the heating section 32 to a level higher than the air temperature, causing the air temperature to rise due to heat exchange. For example, if the air temperature at point P1 is 10°C, it will rise by approximately 5°C as you move towards point P2, reaching 15°C at point P2.

[0032] From point P2 to point P3, the air is cooled in the condensation water recovery unit 40, so the air reaches the dew point temperature of 100 percent relative humidity while its absolute humidity remains constant. From point P3 to point P4, the absolute humidity and dry-bulb temperature of the air decrease in the condensation water recovery unit 40, following the curve of 100 percent relative humidity. If only the amount of condensation water released is recovered, the absolute humidity at point P4 becomes equal to the absolute humidity at point P1. If further dehumidification is performed, the absolute humidity at point P4 becomes lower than the absolute humidity at point P1. For example, if the air temperature at point P2 is 15°C, the air temperature at point P4 will decrease to 3°C.

[0033] From point P4 to point P5, moisture contained in the air is transferred to the liquid dehumidifier in the moisture absorption section 28, so the absolute humidity decreases. The difference between the absolute humidity at point P5 and the absolute humidity at point P1 corresponds to the amount of moisture removed. The temperature changes slightly due to the temperature difference between the air and the liquid dehumidifier.

[0034] The subject of the apparatus, system, or method in this disclosure comprises a computer. The functions of the subject of the apparatus, system, or method in this disclosure are realized by the computer executing a program. The computer comprises a processor as its main hardware component, which operates according to the program. The processor is of any type as long as it can realize its functions by executing the program. The processor consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or LSIs (Large Scale Integrations). Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip or provided on multiple chips. Multiple chips may be aggregated in one device or provided on multiple devices. The program is recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as ROM, optical discs, or hard disk drives that can be read by the computer. The program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0035] Figure 3 shows an example of the installation of the dehumidifier 100. The facility 200 is a building such as a house. The facility 200 has a living space 202 and a non-living space 204. The non-living space 204 is a space other than the living space 202, such as the space above the ceiling or a machine room. The dehumidifier 100 is installed in the non-living space 204. Therefore, the dehumidifier 100 may be installed in the room (living space 202) as a household electrical appliance type, or it may be installed in the non-living space 204 as an equipment type.

[0036] Figure 4 shows another installation example of the dehumidifier 100. If the dehumidifier 100 is of the installation type, it may be connected to the heat exchange fan 210 by a duct. By installing the dehumidifier 100 in the air supply path after the air has passed through the heat exchange fan 210, the dehumidifier 100 dehumidifies the incoming outside air and supplies it to the living space 202 (Figure 3).

[0037] According to this embodiment, by using a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, moisture can be released in the moisture-releasing section at a lower temperature than with a solid desiccant. Furthermore, since moisture is released at a lower temperature, the amount of heat required for heating can be suppressed. In addition, since the amount of heat required for heating is suppressed, the power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. Moreover, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material absorbs moisture contained in the air, and heat exchange is performed between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section 28 and the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22, thus reducing the power consumption for dehumidification. Furthermore, since the heating section 32 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, the amount of heat in the heating section 32 can be suppressed. Furthermore, since heat exchange is performed between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing materials in the heat exchange section 24, the amount of heat in the cooling section 26 and the heating section 32 can be suppressed.

[0038] (Example 2) Next, Example 2 will be described. Example 2 relates to a dehumidifier 100, similar to Example 1. The dehumidifier 100 in Example 2 uses a liquid moisture absorber and release material, similar to Example 1, and also uses a refrigeration cycle. Here, the differences from Example 1 will be explained in detail.

[0039] Figure 5 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100. In addition to the configuration shown in Figure 1, the dehumidifier 100 includes a refrigerant flow path 60, a compressor 62, a first heat exchange unit 64, a heat dissipation unit 66, an expansion valve 68, and a second heat exchange unit 70. Here, the second heat exchange unit 70 is included as the cooling unit 26, and the first heat exchange unit 64 is included as the heating unit 32. The suction port 12 also includes a first suction port 12a and a second suction port 12b.

[0040] A refrigerant flow path 60 is arranged inside the housing 10. The refrigerant flow path 60 is a pipe through which refrigerant flows. The refrigerant is, for example, a fluorocarbon alternative (HFC134a). The refrigerant flow path 60 is arranged in an annular shape. On the refrigerant flow path 60, a compressor 62, a first heat exchange unit 64, a heat dissipation unit 66, an expansion valve 68, a condensation water recovery unit 40, a second heat exchange unit 70, and a compressor 62 are arranged in that order. These form a refrigeration cycle. The condensation water recovery unit 40 and the second heat exchange unit 70 correspond to the evaporator in a typical refrigeration cycle. The first heat exchange unit 64 and the heat dissipation unit 66 correspond to the condenser in a typical refrigeration cycle.

[0041] The first heat exchange unit 64 is installed between the compressor 62 and the heat dissipation unit 66 on the refrigerant flow path 60, and is installed across both the refrigerant flow path 60 and the flow path 20. The first heat exchange unit 64 located on the flow path 20 functions as the heating unit 32 of Embodiment 1. Therefore, the first heat exchange unit 64 performs heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater that has flowed through the heat exchange unit 24 on the flow path 20 and the refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor 62 on the refrigerant flow path 60. Here, the temperature of the refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor 62 on the refrigerant flow path 60 is higher than the temperature of the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater that has flowed through the heat exchange unit 24. Therefore, in the first heat exchange unit 64, the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater that has flowed through the heat exchange unit 24 is heated by the high-temperature refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor 62, and the refrigerant is cooled by the heat exchange performed between the refrigerant and the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater. In other words, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the first heat exchange section 64 on the flow path 20 is heated by the heat of the refrigerant, becoming hotter than before it flowed through the first heat exchange section 64. Also, the refrigerant that has flowed through the first heat exchange section 64 on the refrigerant flow path 60 is cooled down compared to before it flowed through the first heat exchange section 64. In the heating section 32 of Embodiment 1, a Peltier element was used to heat the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, but in this embodiment, a Peltier element is not used. In this embodiment, heating is performed by the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section 64, so heating can be performed more efficiently than with a Peltier element, and the power consumption in the heating section 32 can be reduced. That is, the power consumption in the first heat exchange section 64 can be reduced. The first heat exchange section 64 is, like the heat exchange section 24, for example, a plate type or a double-tube type.

[0042] The heat dissipation unit 66 is positioned between the first heat exchange unit 64 and the expansion valve 68 in the refrigeration cycle. The heat dissipation unit 66 releases heat to at least a portion of the air introduced from the second intake port 12b. This discharges excess heat, such as the exhaust heat from the compressor 62, through an air passage other than the main air passage 50 (hereinafter referred to as the bypass air passage 80). The bypass air passage 80 does not have a dehumidification unit 22, a condensation water recovery unit 40, or a dehumidification unit 28, and is connected from the second intake port 12b to the outlet port 14 via the heat dissipation unit 66. On the other hand, the aforementioned main air passage 50 is connected from the first intake port 12a to the outlet port 14 via a dehumidification unit 22, a condensation water recovery unit 40, a dehumidification unit 28, and a blower unit 42. The ratio of the airflow of the main air passage 50 to the airflow of the bypass air passage 80 is appropriately adjusted according to the amount of excess heat, such as the exhaust heat from the compressor 62.

[0043] The expansion valve 68 lowers the temperature of the refrigerant by expanding (reducing the pressure of) the refrigerant from the heat dissipation section 66. The condensation water recovery section 40 receives the refrigerant whose temperature has been lowered by the expansion valve 68, and generates condensation water by cooling the air from the moisture release section 22 with the refrigerant.

[0044] The second heat exchanger 70 is installed between the dew condensation water recovery section 40 and the moisture absorption section 28 on the refrigerant flow path 60 and is installed across the refrigerant flow path 60 and the flow path 20. The second heat exchanger 70 installed on the flow path 20 functions as the cooling section 26 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the second heat exchanger 70 performs heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorption and release material that has flowed through the heat exchanger 24 on the flow path 20 and the refrigerant that has flowed through the dew condensation water recovery section 40 (expansion valve 68) on the refrigerant flow path 60. Here, the temperature of the refrigerant that has flowed through the dew condensation water recovery section 40 (expansion valve 68) on the refrigerant flow path 60 is lower than the temperature of the liquid moisture absorption and release material that has flowed through the heat exchanger 24. That is, the temperature of the liquid moisture absorption and release material that has flowed through the heat exchanger 24 on the flow path 20 is higher than the temperature of the refrigerant that has flowed through the dew condensation water recovery section 40 (expansion valve 68) on the refrigerant flow path 60. Therefore, in the second heat exchanger 70, the liquid moisture absorption and release material that has flowed through the heat exchanger 24 is cooled by the refrigerant that has flowed through the dew condensation water recovery section 40 (expansion valve 68), and the refrigerant is heated by the heat exchange performed between the refrigerant and the liquid moisture absorption and release material. In other words, the liquid moisture absorption and release material that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 70 on the flow path 20 is in a cooled state compared to before flowing through the second heat exchanger 70 by the refrigerant. Also, the refrigerant that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 70 on the refrigerant flow path 60 is in a heated state compared to before flowing through the second heat exchanger 70. In the cooling section 26 of the first embodiment, a Peltier element was used for cooling the liquid moisture absorption and release material, but in this embodiment, no Peltier element is used. In this embodiment, since cooling by the refrigerant is performed in the second heat exchanger 70, cooling can be performed more efficiently than with a Peltier element, and the power consumption in the cooling section 26 can be reduced. That is, the power consumption in the second heat exchanger 70 can be reduced. The second heat exchanger 70 is, like the heat exchanger 24, for example, plate type or double pipe type.

[0045] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the changes in state on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier 100. Figure 6 is shown in the same way as Figure 2. Points P1 to P4 are the same states as points P1 to P4 in Figure 2, respectively. Point P5 shows the state after outflow from the moisture absorption section 28, similar to Example 1, but unlike Example 1, it does not show the state of being blown out from the outlet 14. Point P6 shows the state after outflow from the heat dissipation section 66. Point P7 shows the state of being blown out from the outlet 14.

[0046] From point P1 to point P6, the air receives heat from the heat dissipation section 66, causing its absolute temperature to rise. This corresponds to a change in the state of the air in the bypass air passage 80. From point P5 to point P7, and from point P6 to point P7, the air from point P5 and the air from point P6 are mixed and released from the outlet 14.

[0047] In this embodiment, the refrigeration cycle is used to heat the liquid moisture absorbent material in the first heat exchange section 64 through heat exchange with the refrigerant, and to cool the liquid moisture absorbent material in the second heat exchange section 70 through heat exchange with the refrigerant. This reduces the power consumption in the first heat exchange section 64 and the second heat exchange section 70. Furthermore, since the heat dissipation section 66 in the refrigeration cycle dissipates heat to the air in the bypass air passage 80, the heat generated in the compressor 62 can be discarded, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the refrigeration cycle.

[0048] The summary of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows. (Item 1) A housing (10) having a suction port (12) and a blowout port (14), a flow path (20) in which a liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material that is disposed in the housing (10) and can absorb or release moisture with respect to the air flowing through the housing (10) circulates, a dehumidifying section (22) that is disposed on the flow path (20) and releases moisture from the liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material with respect to the air introduced from the suction port (12), a condensed water recovery section (40) that recovers at least a part of the moisture contained in the air that has passed through the dehumidifying section (22) as condensed water, a moisture absorbing section (28) that is disposed on the flow path (20) and absorbs the moisture remaining in the air that has passed through the condensed water recovery section (40), and a heat exchange section (24) that is disposed on the flow path (20) and performs heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material that has passed through the moisture absorbing section (28) and the liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material that has passed through the dehumidifying section (22). The liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material moves moisture from the moisture absorbing section (28) to the dehumidifying section (22) by circulating through the dehumidifying section (22) and the moisture absorbing section (28) disposed on the flow path (20). A dehumidifying device (100).

[0049] (Item 2) A cooling section (26) that cools the liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material introduced into the moisture absorbing section (28) after passing through the heat exchange section (24), and a heating section (32) that heats the liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material introduced into the dehumidifying section (22) after passing through the heat exchange section (24). The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 1, further comprising these components.

[0050] (Item 3) The liquid moisture absorbing and releasing material circulates in the order of the moisture absorbing section (28), the heat exchange section (24), the heating section (32), the dehumidifying section (22), the heat exchange section (24), the cooling section (26), and the moisture absorbing section (28). The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 2.

[0051] (Item 4) The dehumidifier (100) according to Item 2, further comprising a refrigeration cycle having a refrigerant flow path (60) through which a refrigerant is circulated, disposed within the housing (10), and a compressor (62), a first heat exchange unit (64), an expansion valve (68), and a second heat exchange unit (70) disposed on the refrigerant flow path (60), wherein the first heat exchange unit (64) heats the liquid moisture absorbent material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit (24) as the heating unit (32) by performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorbent material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit (24) and the refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor (62), and the second heat exchange unit (70) cools the liquid moisture absorbent material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit (24) as the cooling unit (26), by performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorbent material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit (24) and the refrigerant that has flowed through the expansion valve (68).

[0052] (Item 5) The dehumidifier (100) according to Item 4, wherein the main air passage (50) has an air passage having an intake port (12), a moisture release section (22), a condensation water recovery section (40), a moisture absorption section (28), and an outlet port (14), and further comprises a bypass air passage (80) that does not have a moisture release section (22), a condensation water recovery section (40), or a moisture absorption section (28), and has a heat dissipation section (66) positioned between the first heat exchange section (64) and the expansion valve (68) in the refrigeration cycle, wherein the heat dissipation section (66) dissipates heat to at least a portion of the air introduced from the intake port (12), and the refrigerant that has flowed through the heat dissipation section (66) flows in order through the expansion valve (68), the condensation water recovery section (40), the second heat exchange section (70), the compressor (62), and the first heat exchange section (64).

[0053] (Example 3) In the following, the dehumidifier 100 according to this embodiment will be described in the order of (1) basic configuration, (2) configuration for improving moisture absorption performance, and (3) installation example. The explanation will focus on the differences from previous examples. (1) Basic Configuration Figure 1 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100. A flow path 20 is arranged inside the housing 10. The flow path 20 is a pipe through which a liquid desiccant flows. The liquid desiccant is a liquid desiccant, which is a liquid that can absorb or release moisture to the air flowing inside the housing 10. Examples of liquid desiccants include aqueous solutions of hygroscopic inorganic salts (lithium chloride solution, potassium formate solution, lithium bromide solution, calcium chloride solution, etc.).

[0054] Liquid moisture absorbers and release moisture based on the water vapor pressure difference with the air. The temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch in a liquid moisture absorber and release material varies depending on the concentration of the inorganic salt solution. More specifically, if the concentration of the inorganic salt solution is low, the temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch is low, and if the concentration of the inorganic salt solution is high, the temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch is high. As an example, assuming a lithium chloride solution as the inorganic salt solution, if the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the lithium chloride solution concentration is 20%, moisture absorption and release switch at around 20°C to 30°C. On the other hand, if the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the lithium chloride solution concentration is 30%, moisture absorption and release switch at around 30°C to 40°C. When a liquid moisture absorber and release material is heated, the water vapor pressure of the material increases, and the material releases moisture. On the other hand, when a liquid desiccant is cooled, its water vapor pressure decreases, and the liquid desiccant absorbs moisture. Liquid desiccants can release moisture at lower temperatures than solid desiccants.

[0055] The intake port 12 draws air from outside the housing 10 into the housing 10. Outside the housing 10 refers to, for example, the indoor space. The air drawn in from the intake port 12 flows along the main air passage 50 to the dehumidification section 22. The dehumidification section 22 is positioned on the flow path 20 and releases moisture from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air introduced from the intake port 12. This corresponds to the liquid dehumidifying material coming into contact with the air and releasing moisture into the air. The dehumidification section 22 is composed of a moisture-permeable membrane that allows water vapor to pass through but not liquid to pass through, in order to prevent the liquid dehumidifying material from scattering. This prevents the loss of the liquid dehumidifying material and also prevents the scattering of the liquid dehumidifying material. The dehumidification section 22 has a configuration in which the liquid dehumidifying material flows inside the moisture-permeable membrane and air flows to the outside. For example, the dehumidification section 22 is an element type with stacked moisture-permeable membranes or a hollow fiber membrane type. Furthermore, the moisture release performance of the moisture release section 22 changes depending on the gas-liquid contact area with the air. Specifically, the larger the gas-liquid contact area, the greater the moisture release performance.

[0056] The cooling unit 26 is positioned on the flow path 20 and cools the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater that flows through the heat exchange unit 24 and is then introduced into the moisture absorption unit 28. The cooling unit 26 is, for example, a Peltier element and cools the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater so that its temperature is the same as or lower than the temperature of the air. If the air after passing through the condensation water recovery unit 40 is 20°C, the cooling unit 26 cools the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater to about 20°C. Since the liquid moisture absorber / dehydrater absorbs moisture more easily at lower temperatures, it is cooled to increase its moisture absorption capacity.

[0057] In the condensation water recovery section 40, the air that has released condensation water through cooling flows along the main air passage 50 to the moisture absorption section 28. The moisture absorption section 28 is positioned on the flow path and absorbs any remaining moisture in the air that has flowed through the condensation water recovery section 40. This corresponds to the liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier coming into contact with the air and absorbing moisture from it. The moisture absorption section 28 is configured similarly to the moisture release section 22. Furthermore, the moisture absorption performance of the moisture absorption section 28 changes depending on the gas-liquid contact area with the air. Specifically, the larger the gas-liquid contact area, the greater the moisture absorption performance.

[0058] The heating unit 32 is positioned on the flow path 20 and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows through the moisture-absorbing unit 28 and is then introduced into the moisture-releasing unit 22. The heating unit 32 is, for example, a Peltier element and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material so that its temperature is higher than the temperature of the air. For example, if the air temperature is 27°C, the heating unit 32 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to about 50°C. Since the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material releases moisture more easily at higher temperatures, it is heated to increase its moisture-releasing capacity.

[0059] Now, let's explain the role of the heat exchange section 24. The heat exchange section 24 is provided to suppress the heat load on the cooling section 26 and the heating section 32. If the heat exchange section 24 is not provided, the cooling section 26 would have to cool the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from 50°C after passing through the moisture-releasing section 22 by 30°C (a temperature difference of 30°C) to bring it down to 20°C. Also, the heating section 32 would have to heat the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from 20°C after passing through the moisture-absorbing section 28 to 50°C by 30°C (a temperature difference of 30°C).

[0060] On the other hand, if a heat exchange unit 24 is provided, heating and cooling can be performed without using electricity through heat exchange by the heat exchange unit 24, and heating and cooling can be performed by, for example, 20°C. When reducing the temperature of a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that is 50°C after passing through the moisture-releasing unit 22 to 20°C, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows into the heat exchange unit 24 is cooled from 50°C to 30°C by heat exchange, so the cooling unit 26 only needs to cool by 10°C (10°C difference) from 30°C to 20°C. Also, when heating a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that is 20°C after passing through the moisture-absorbing unit 28 to 50°C, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows into the heat exchange unit 24 is heated from 20°C to 40°C by heat exchange, so the heating unit 32 only needs to heat by 10°C (10°C difference) from 40°C to 50°C. In other words, when a heat exchange unit 24 is provided, the temperature difference for cooling and heating can be reduced compared to when a heat exchange unit 24 is not provided. Therefore, when the heat exchange unit 24 is provided, the heat load on the cooling unit 26 and the heating unit 32 can be suppressed compared to when the heat exchange unit 24 is not provided.

[0061] (2) Configuration for improving moisture absorption performance As described above, the moisture release performance of the moisture release section 22 and the moisture absorption performance of the moisture absorption section 28 change according to the gas-liquid contact area. The gas-liquid contact area is the area in contact between the air and the liquid moisture absorption / release material. The gas-liquid contact area corresponds to the surface area of ​​the moisture-permeable membrane or hollow fiber membrane. When the gas-liquid contact area of ​​the moisture absorption section 28 and the gas-liquid contact area of ​​the moisture release section 22 are the same, and the liquid temperature at the inlet of the moisture absorption section 28 and the liquid temperature at the inlet of the moisture release section 22 are constant, the concentration of the liquid moisture absorption / release material changes so that the amount of moisture absorbed and the amount of moisture released are the same. For example, if the initial concentration is low, assuming an initial moisture absorption of 9 L / day and an initial moisture release of 11 L / day, the concentration will change and stabilize at a moisture absorption of 10 L / day and a moisture release of 10 L / day.

[0062] Liquid dehumidifiers adsorb and release moisture depending on the difference between the water vapor pressure of the dehumidified air and the water vapor pressure of the liquid dehumidifier. The water vapor pressure of the liquid dehumidifier changes depending on the concentration and temperature. Figure 7 shows the vapor pressure curve of the liquid dehumidifier used in the dehumidifier 100. The horizontal axis represents temperature and the vertical axis represents water vapor pressure, and Figure 7 shows the temperature dependence of the water vapor pressure of the liquid dehumidifier when the concentration is constant. When the concentration is constant, the water vapor pressure of the liquid dehumidifier increases exponentially as the liquid temperature rises. In other words, the effect of temperature changes at low temperatures on improving adsorption performance is smaller than the effect of temperature changes at high temperatures on improving release performance. As a result, the moisture absorption capacity may be insufficient compared to the moisture release capacity, and consequently, sufficient dehumidification capacity may not be ensured.

[0063] If the amount of dehumidification required exceeds the limit of the amount of moisture absorption that can be improved by adjusting the liquid temperature and concentration, the amount of dehumidification will be insufficient. For example, if the required amount of dehumidification is 20 L / day, but the amount of moisture absorbed is only 18 L / day even after adjusting the liquid temperature and concentration, then even if the amount of moisture absorbed is 18 L / day and the amount of moisture released is 20 L / day, the amount of dehumidification obtained will still be only 18 L / day. This embodiment aims to improve the moisture absorption performance in order to increase the amount of dehumidification when using a liquid moisture absorbent and release material.

[0064] In this embodiment, the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture absorption section 28 is set higher than the moisture release capacity of the moisture release section 22. Specifically, the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture absorption section 28 is made larger than the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture release section 22. In the example described above, by increasing the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture absorption section 28, the amount of moisture absorbed becomes 20 L / day or more, and the amount of dehumidification also improves to 20 L / day or more. Here, an example of the sizes of the moisture absorption section 28 and the moisture release section 22 is described. When air at a temperature of 27°C and a relative humidity of 60% (vapor pressure: approximately 2 kPa) is drawn in from the intake port 12, and the air is brought into contact with a liquid moisture absorbent / dehumidifying material at 50°C (vapor pressure: approximately 5 kPa) in the moisture release section 22, the water vapor pressure difference in the moisture release section 22 is approximately 3 kPa. When air that has passed through the condensation water recovery section 40, with a temperature of 20°C and a relative humidity of 90% (vapor pressure: approximately 2 kPa), is brought into contact with a liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier at 0°C (vapor pressure: approximately 0.5 kPa) in the moisture absorption section 28, the water vapor pressure difference in the moisture absorption section 28 is approximately 1.5 kPa. In this situation, since the water vapor pressure difference in the moisture absorption section 28 is about half that of the moisture release section 22, the gas-liquid contact area of ​​the moisture absorption section 28 is made larger than about twice the gas-liquid contact area of ​​the moisture release section 22.

[0065] In order to make the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture absorption section 28 larger than that of the moisture release section 22, the density of the moisture-permeable membrane or hollow fiber membrane in the moisture release section 22 and the moisture absorption section 28 is made the same, and the volume of the moisture absorption section 28 is made larger than the volume of the moisture release section 22. Density is the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume. In this case, in the main air passage 50 having an inlet 12, a moisture release section 22, a condensation water recovery section 40, a moisture absorption section 28, and an outlet 14, it is desirable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the main air passage 50 of the moisture absorption section 28 be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main air passage 50 of the moisture release section 22.

[0066] To make the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-absorbing section 28 larger than the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-releasing section 22, the volumes of the moisture-releasing section 22 and the moisture-absorbing section 28 may be made the same, and the density of the moisture-permeable membrane or hollow fiber membrane in the moisture-absorbing section 28 may be made greater than the density of the moisture-permeable membrane or hollow fiber membrane in the moisture-releasing section 22. This corresponds to the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture-absorbing section 28 being greater than the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture-releasing section 22.

[0067] In order to make the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-absorbing section 28 larger than the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-releasing section 22, the volume of the moisture-absorbing section 28 may be made larger than the volume of the moisture-releasing section 22, and the density of the moisture-permeable membrane or hollow fiber membrane in the moisture-absorbing section 28 may be made larger than the density of the moisture-permeable membrane or hollow fiber membrane in the moisture-releasing section 22.

[0068] Figure 2 shows the phase change on the psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier 100. From point P1 to point P2, the absolute humidity increases as the air receives moisture from the liquid dehumidifier in the dehumidification section 22. The temperature also changes due to heat exchange with the liquid dehumidifier, which is at a higher temperature than the air, and the generation of latent heat of condensation. For example, if the air temperature at point P1 is 27°C, it increases by about 5°C as you move towards point P2, and the air temperature at point P2 becomes 32°C.

[0069] From point P2 to point P3, the air is cooled in the condensation water recovery unit 40, so the air reaches the dew point temperature of 100 percent relative humidity while maintaining a constant absolute humidity. From point P3 to point P4, the absolute humidity and dry-bulb temperature of the air decrease in the condensation water recovery unit 40 along the curve of 100 percent relative humidity. If only the amount of condensation water released is recovered, the absolute humidity at point P4 becomes equal to the absolute humidity at point P1. If further dehumidification is performed, the absolute humidity at point P4 becomes lower than the absolute humidity at point P1. For example, if the air temperature at point P2 is 32°C, the air temperature at point P4 will decrease to 20°C.

[0070] From point P4 to point P5, the moisture contained in the air is transferred to the liquid dehumidifier in the moisture absorption section 28, so the absolute humidity decreases. The difference between the absolute humidity at point P5 and the absolute humidity at point P1 corresponds to the amount of moisture removed. The temperature changes due to heat exchange with the liquid dehumidifier, which is at a lower temperature than the air, and the generation of latent heat of condensation. For example, if the temperature of the air at point P4 is 20°C, it decreases by about 5°C as you move towards point P5, and the temperature of the air at point P5 becomes 15°C.

[0071] (3) Installation Examples Figure 3 shows an example of the installation of the dehumidifier 100. Figure 4 shows another example of the installation of the dehumidifier 100. Explanations of these are omitted.

[0072] According to this embodiment, by using a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, moisture can be released in the moisture-releasing section at a lower temperature than with a solid desiccant. Furthermore, since moisture is released at a lower temperature, the amount of heat required for heating can be suppressed. In addition, since the amount of heat required for heating is suppressed, the power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. Furthermore, since the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material absorbs moisture contained in the air and heat exchange is performed between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section 28 and the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 22, the power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. Furthermore, since the heating section 32 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, the amount of heat in the heating section 32 can be suppressed. Furthermore, since heat exchange is performed between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing materials in the heat exchange section 24, the amount of heat in the cooling section 26 and the heating section 32 can be suppressed. In addition, since the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture absorption section 28 is made higher than the moisture release capacity of the moisture-releasing section 22, the moisture absorption performance can be improved even if the amount of moisture absorbed is insufficient compared to the amount of moisture released.

[0073] Furthermore, since the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture absorption section 28 is larger than that of the moisture release section 22, the amount of moisture absorbed can be increased if the amount of moisture absorbed is insufficient. Also, since the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture absorption section 28 is larger than that of the moisture release section 22, the amount of moisture absorbed can be increased while suppressing an increase in the size of the dehumidifier 100. In addition, since the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the moisture absorption section 28 is larger than that of the air passage of the moisture release section 22, the decrease in airflow due to increased pressure loss can be suppressed, thereby suppressing a decrease in the amount of dehumidification.

[0074] An outline of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows: (Item 6) A housing (10) having an intake port (12) and an outlet port (14) A flow path (20) disposed within the housing (10) through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to the air flowing within the housing (10) circulates A moisture-releasing section (22) disposed on the flow path (20) and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air introduced from the intake port (12) A condensation water recovery section (40) that recovers at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section (22) as condensation water A moisture-absorbing section (28) disposed on the flow path (20) and absorbing moisture remaining in the air that has flowed through the condensation water recovery section (40) A dehumidifier (100) comprising: a heat exchange unit (24) arranged on the flow path (20) and performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture absorber (28) that has flowed through the moisture absorber (24) and the liquid moisture absorber (24) that has flowed through the moisture release unit (22), wherein the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture absorber (28) is set higher than the moisture release capacity of the moisture release unit (22).

[0075] (Item 7) The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 6, wherein the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-absorbing part (28) is greater than the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-releasing part (22).

[0076] (Item 8) The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 7, wherein the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture-absorbing section (28) is greater than the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture-releasing section (22).

[0077] (Item 9) A dehumidifying device (100) according to any one of items 6 to 8, comprising an air passage having an intake port (12), a moisture release section (22), a condensation water recovery section (40), a moisture absorption section (28), and a discharge port (14), wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the moisture absorption section (28) is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the moisture release section (22).

[0078] (Example 4) Figure 8 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100. The dehumidifier 100 includes a housing 110, a first intake port 112a and a second intake port 112b collectively referred to as intake ports 112, an outlet port 114, a flow path 120, a moisture release section 122, a drive section 124, a moisture absorption section 126, a heating section 128, a heat exchange section 140, and an air blowing section 142. The housing 110 has, for example, a box shape and is of the type of household electrical appliance, and is used when installed in a room. The housing 110 also has openings for the first intake port 112a, the second intake port 112b, and the outlet port 114.

[0079] In Figure 8, the first intake port 112a is connected to the dehumidifying air passage 150, and the second intake port 112b is connected to the dehumidifying air passage 152. Alternatively, instead of the first intake port 112a and the second intake port 112b, a single intake port 112 may be provided, and it may branch into the dehumidifying air passage 150 and the dehumidifying air passage 152 inside the housing 110. Also, in Figure 8, the dehumidifying air passage 150 and the dehumidifying air passage 152 are connected to the outlet port 114. Alternatively, instead of the outlet port 114, a first outlet port 114a and a second outlet port 114b may be provided, with the dehumidifying air passage 150 connected to the first outlet port 114a and the dehumidifying air passage 152 connected to the second outlet port 114b.

[0080] A flow path 120 is arranged inside the housing 110. The flow path 120 is a tube through which a liquid desiccant flows. The liquid desiccant is a liquid that can absorb or release moisture to the air flowing inside the housing 110. The liquid desiccant absorbs or releases moisture based on the water vapor pressure difference with the air. The temperature at which the liquid desiccant switches between absorbing and releasing moisture changes depending on the concentration of the inorganic salt solution. When the liquid desiccant is heated, its water vapor pressure increases, and it releases moisture. On the other hand, when the liquid desiccant is cooled, its water vapor pressure decreases, and it absorbs moisture. The liquid desiccant can release moisture at a lower temperature than a solid desiccant. Examples of liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing materials include aqueous solutions of hygroscopic inorganic salts (such as lithium chloride solution, potassium formate solution, lithium bromide solution, and calcium chloride solution), and organic compound solutions (such as triethylene glycol).

[0081] More specifically, when the concentration of the inorganic salt solution is low, the temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch is low, and when the concentration of the inorganic salt solution is high, the temperature at which moisture absorption and release switch is high. For example, assuming a lithium chloride solution as the inorganic salt solution, if the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the lithium chloride solution concentration is 20%, moisture absorption and release switch at around 20°C to 30°C. On the other hand, if the air temperature is 26°C, the relative humidity is 65%, and the lithium chloride solution concentration is 30%, moisture absorption and release switch at around 30°C to 40°C. When a liquid moisture absorbent is heated, the water vapor pressure of the liquid moisture absorbent increases, and the liquid moisture absorbent releases moisture. Conversely, when a liquid moisture absorbent is cooled, the water vapor pressure of the liquid moisture absorbent decreases, and the liquid moisture absorbent releases moisture. Liquid moisture absorbents can release moisture at lower temperatures than solid desiccants.

[0082] The flow path 120 is arranged in a ring shape. The moisture release section 122, the drive section 124, the moisture absorption section 126, the heating section 128, and the moisture release section 122 are arranged in that order on the flow path 120.

[0083] When the dehumidifier 100 is started, the air drawn in from the second intake port 112b flows into the moisture absorption air passage 152, and the process begins with the absorption of moisture contained in the drawn air. Therefore, the liquid moisture absorber and dehumidifier circulates in the following order: moisture absorption section 126, heating section 128, moisture release section 122, drive section 124, and moisture absorption section 126. The circulation flow rate is, for example, several hundred mL / min to several L / min.

[0084] Inside the housing 110, a dehumidifying air passage 150 is arranged, which is sequentially connected to a first intake port 112a, a heat exchange unit 140, and a blower unit 142. Air introduced from outside the housing 110 flows through the dehumidifying air passage 150. Also inside the housing 110, a dehumidifying air passage 152 is arranged, which is sequentially connected to a second intake port 112b, a heat exchange unit 140, a dehumidifying unit 126, and a blower unit 142. The dehumidifying air passage 152 is arranged separately from the dehumidifying air passage 150, but the dehumidifying air passage 150 and the dehumidifying air passage 152 are connected at the blower unit 142 and connected to the outlet 114. For example, the airflow rate of the dehumidifying air passage 150 is 30 cubic meters / hour, and the airflow rate of the dehumidifying air passage 152 is 270 cubic meters / hour.

[0085] The first intake port 112a draws air from outside the housing 110 into the housing 110. Outside the housing 110 refers to, for example, the indoor space. Here, we assume that the temperature of the air drawn in through the first intake port 112a is, for example, room temperature (20°C). The air drawn in from the first intake port 112a flows along the dehumidifying air passage 150 to the dehumidifying section 122.

[0086] The dehumidifying section 122 is positioned on the flow path 120 and releases moisture from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 introduced from the first intake port 112a. This corresponds to the liquid dehumidifying material coming into contact with the air and releasing moisture into the air. The temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the dehumidifying section 122 is, for example, 55°C, and after the release of moisture in the dehumidifying section 122, the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material drops to, for example, 20-30°C. In addition, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 rises to, for example, 27°C in the dehumidifying section 122.

[0087] The moisture release section 122 is composed of a moisture-permeable membrane that allows water vapor to pass through but not liquid to prevent the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material from scattering. In this configuration, air is passed through the moisture-permeable membrane through which the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flows. This prevents the loss of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material and also prevents it from scattering. The moisture release section 122 has a configuration in which the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flows inside the moisture-permeable membrane and air flows outside. For example, the moisture release section 122 is an element type with stacked moisture-permeable membranes or a hollow fiber membrane type. The air that has absorbed moisture in the moisture release section 122 flows along the moisture release air passage 150 to the heat exchange section 140.

[0088] The second intake port 112b draws air from outside the housing 110 into the housing 110. Here, we assume that the temperature of the air drawn in through the second intake port 112b is, for example, room temperature (20°C). The air drawn in through the second intake port 112b flows along the moisture absorption air passage 152 to the heat exchange section 140.

[0089] The heat exchange section 140 is, for example, an air-cooled heat exchanger that exchanges only sensible heat, or a plate-type or double-tube-type heat exchanger, and is arranged across the dehumidifying air passage 150 and the dehumidifying air passage 152. The heat exchange section 140 performs heat exchange between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the dehumidifying section 122 and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 that has been drawn in from the second intake port 112b. The air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 that has been drawn in from the second intake port 112b corresponds to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 126, which will be described later. As described above, if the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the dehumidifying section 122 is, for example, 27°C, and the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 is, for example, room temperature (20°C), then due to heat exchange in the heat exchange section 140, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 after flowing through the heat exchange section 140 drops to 20°C, and the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 after flowing through the heat exchange section 140 rises to 22°C. As a result, the heat exchange section 140 cools at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 to below the dew point and collects it as condensed water in a drainage tank (not shown). The air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has been cooled in the heat exchange section 140 flows to the blowing section 142, and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 that has been heated in the heat exchange section 140 flows to the dehumidifying section 126.

[0090] The moisture absorption section 126 is positioned on the flow path 120 and absorbs moisture contained in the air of the moisture absorption air passage 152 into the liquid moisture absorption and release material. This corresponds to the liquid moisture absorption and release material coming into contact with the air and absorbing moisture from the air. The moisture absorption section 126 is configured similarly to the moisture release section 122. The temperature of the liquid moisture absorption and release material flowing into the moisture absorption section 126 is, for example, 20°C, and the temperature of the liquid moisture absorption and release material after absorbing moisture in the moisture absorption section 126 rises above that.

[0091] The air blower unit 142 comprises a motor (not shown) and a fan (not shown) connected to the motor's rotating shaft for drawing in and exhausting air. The air blower unit 142 forms an airflow along the dehumidifying air passage 150 and an airflow along the dehumidifying air passage 152 within the housing 110. In other words, due to the operation of the air blower unit 142, air flows in the order of first intake port 112a, dehumidifying section 122, heat exchange section 140, air blower unit 142, and outlet port 114, and also in the order of second intake port 112b, heat exchange section 140, dehumidifying section 126, air blower unit 142, and outlet port 114. The outlet port 114 blows air from the inside of the housing 110 to the outside of the housing 110. The airflow of the air blower unit 142 is designed according to, for example, the required amount of dehumidification or clothes drying capacity.

[0092] The drive unit 124 supplies power to circulate the liquid moisture absorber in the flow path 120. The drive unit 124 is, for example, a pump.

[0093] The heating unit 128 is positioned on the flow path 120 and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows through the moisture-absorbing unit 126 and is then introduced into the moisture-releasing unit 122. The heating unit 128 is, for example, an electric heater and heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material so that its temperature is higher than the temperature of the air. For example, the heating unit 128 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to about 55°C. Since the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material releases moisture more easily at higher temperatures, it is heated to increase its moisture-releasing capacity.

[0094] The liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material circulates through the moisture-releasing section 122 and the moisture-absorbing section 126, which are located on the flow path 120. As a result, the moisture absorbed from the air in the moisture-absorbing section 126 is transported to the moisture-releasing section 122, where it is released back into the air.

[0095] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the state changes on a psychrometric chart for the dehumidifier 100. The horizontal axis shows the dry-bulb temperature (temperature), with the dry-bulb temperature increasing as you move to the right on the horizontal axis. The vertical axis shows the absolute humidity, with the absolute humidity increasing as you move upward on the vertical axis. Point P1 shows the state of the air before it flows into the dehumidification section 122 after being drawn in from the first intake port 112a or the second intake port 112b. Point P2 shows the state of the air after it has flowed out of the dehumidification section 122. Point P3 shows the state of the air after it has flowed into the heat exchange section 140, cooled to the dew point temperature, and then flowed out. Point P4 shows the state of the air after it has flowed out of the dehumidification section 126. Point P5 shows the state of the air after it has been blown out from the outlet port 114.

[0096] From point P1 to point P2, the air in the dehumidification section 122 receives moisture from the liquid dehumidifier, causing the absolute humidity to increase. Additionally, the heating section 128 heats the liquid dehumidifier so that its temperature is higher than the air temperature, causing the air temperature to rise due to heat exchange. As a result, the air at point P1, which is 20°C and 60% humidity, changes to 27.5°C and 80% humidity at point P2.

[0097] From point P2 to point P3, the air is cooled in the heat exchange section 140, so the air reaches the dew point temperature of 100 percent relative humidity while its absolute humidity remains constant. Also, in the heat exchange section 140, the absolute humidity and dry-bulb temperature of the air decrease along the curve of 100 percent relative humidity. If condensation water is recovered to replace the released moisture, the result is that at point P3, the air temperature becomes 20°C and the humidity becomes 90%.

[0098] From point P1 to point P4, the air in the moisture absorption section 126 transfers moisture to the liquid moisture absorption / release material, causing a decrease in absolute humidity. As a result, at point P4, the air temperature becomes 25°C and the humidity becomes 38%. From points P3, P4, and P5, the air in the moisture release air passage 150 and the air in the moisture absorption air passage 152 are mixed in the air blower section 142. The difference in absolute humidity between point P1 and point P5 corresponds to the amount of moisture removed by the dehumidifier 100.

[0099] An example of the installation of the dehumidifier 100 is shown in Figures 3 and 4, as before. A detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0100] According to this embodiment, by using a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material, moisture can be released in the moisture-releasing section at a lower temperature than with a solid desiccant. Furthermore, since moisture is released at a lower temperature, the amount of heat required for heating can be suppressed. Also, since the amount of heat required for heating is suppressed, the power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced. In addition, in the heat exchange section 140, heat exchange is performed between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150 that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 122 and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage 152 before it flows through the moisture-absorbing section 126, so the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150 can be cooled. Furthermore, since the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150 is cooled, moisture can be released from the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150. Furthermore, since at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150 that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section 122 is cooled to below the dew point, moisture can be released from the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150.

[0101] An outline of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows: (Item 10) A housing (10) A flow path (20) disposed within the housing (10) through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to the air flowing within the housing (10) circulates A moisture-releasing air passage (50) disposed within the housing (10) through which air introduced from outside the housing (10) circulates A moisture-releasing section (22) disposed on the flow path (20) and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-releasing air passage (50) A moisture-absorbing air passage (52) disposed within the housing (10) separately from the moisture-releasing air passage (50) and through which air introduced from outside the housing (10) circulates A moisture-absorbing section (26) disposed on the flow path (20) and absorbing moisture contained in the air in the moisture-releasing air passage (52) into the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material A dehumidifying device (100) comprising: a heating unit (28) arranged on the flow path (20) and heating the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing unit (26) and introducing it into the moisture-releasing unit (22); and a heat exchange unit (40) arranged across the moisture-releasing air passage (50) and the moisture-absorbing air passage (52) and performing heat exchange between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage (50) that has flowed through the moisture-releasing unit (22) and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage (52) before it flows through the moisture-absorbing unit (26).

[0102] (Item 11) The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 10, wherein the heat exchange section (40) cools at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the dehumidifying air passage (50) that has flowed through the dehumidifying section (22) to below the dew point and recovers it as condensed water.

[0103] (Example 5) Example 5 relates to the same dehumidifier 100 as Example 4. The purpose of Example 5 is to further improve the efficiency of dehumidification. Below, we will describe the first to fourth examples in order, focusing on the differences from Example 4.

[0104] Figure 10 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (first example). Compared to Figure 8, the dehumidifier 100 has a heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage positioned between the dehumidifying section 122 and the drive section 124 on the flow path 120. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned between the heat exchange section 140 and the air blowing section 142 in the dehumidifying air passage 150. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the heat exchange section 140. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage releases heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the heat exchange section 140. The temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flowing into the heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture-releasing air passage after moisture is released in the moisture-releasing section 122 is, for example, 30°C, and the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material after heat dissipation in the heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture-releasing air passage drops to, for example, 20°C. In addition, the temperature of the air in the moisture-releasing air passage 150 rises from, for example, 20°C to 28°C in the heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture-releasing air passage.

[0105] Figure 11 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (second example). Compared to Figure 8, the dehumidifier 100 has the moisture absorption air passage heat dissipation section 146 and the moisture release air passage heat dissipation section 144 arranged in order between the moisture release section 122 and the drive section 124 on the flow path 120. In other words, the liquid moisture absorption and release material that flows through the moisture release section 122 flows in the order of moisture absorption air passage heat dissipation section 146, moisture release air passage heat dissipation section 144, drive section 124, and moisture absorption section 126. Furthermore, the moisture release air passage heat dissipation section 144 is positioned between the heat exchange section 140 and the air blowing section 142 in the moisture release air passage 150, and the moisture absorption air passage heat dissipation section 146 is positioned between the moisture absorption section 126 and the air blowing section 142 in the moisture absorption air passage 152.

[0106] The heat dissipation section 146 for the moisture absorption air passage exchanges heat between the liquid moisture absorption material and the air in the moisture absorption air passage 152 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 126. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 146 for the moisture absorption air passage releases heat from the liquid moisture absorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage 152 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 126. The heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture discharge air passage is the same as in the first example, so its explanation is omitted here. The temperature of the liquid moisture absorption material decreases, for example, from 30°C to 25°C in the heat dissipation section 146 for the moisture absorption air passage, and decreases, for example, from 25°C to 20°C in the heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture discharge air passage.

[0107] Figure 12 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (third example). Compared to Figure 8, the dehumidifier 100 includes a third intake port 112c and a heat dissipation air passage 154, and a heat dissipation section 144 for the heat dissipation air passage and a heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage are arranged in order between the moisture release section 122 and the drive section 124 on the flow path 120. In other words, the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture release section 122 flows in the order of the heat dissipation section 144 for the heat dissipation air passage, the heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage, the drive section 124, and the moisture-absorbing section 126. Inside the housing 110, a heat dissipation air passage 154 is arranged, which is connected in order to the third intake port 112c, the heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage, and the blower section 142. The heat dissipation air passage 154 is arranged inside the housing 110 separately from the moisture release air passage 150 and the moisture absorption air passage 152. Air introduced from outside the housing 110 flows through the heat dissipation air passage 154.

[0108] The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned between the heat exchange section 140 and the air blower section 142 in the dehumidifying air passage 150, and the heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage is positioned between the third intake port 112c and the air blower section 142 in the heat dissipation air passage 154. The heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the heat dissipation air passage 154 that flows in from the third intake port 112c. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage releases heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the heat dissipation air passage 154. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is the same as in the first example, so its explanation is omitted here. The temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material decreases, for example, from 40°C to 30°C in the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage, and decreases, for example, from 30°C to 20°C in the heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage.

[0109] Figure 13 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (fourth example). In the dehumidifier 100, the arrangement of the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is different from that in Figure 10 (first example). The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is located between the dehumidifying section 122 and the drive unit 124 on the flow path 120. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is also located between the first intake port 112a and the dehumidifying section 122 in the dehumidifying air passage 150. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that flows in from the first intake port 112a. The air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that flows in from the first intake port 112a corresponds to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 122. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned on the flow path 120 and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage before it flows through the dehumidifying section 122.

[0110] In the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage, the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material decreases from, for example, 30°C to 20°C, and the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 increases from, for example, 20°C to 28°C. As a result, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 flowing into the dehumidifying section 122 is higher compared to the first example, so the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing through the dehumidifying section 122 increases. In the dehumidifying section 122, dehumidification is promoted when the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material is higher, so the capacity of the dehumidifying section 122 is improved.

[0111] In these embodiments (Examples 1 to 4), in the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the heat exchange section 140 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thereby lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material that flows into the moisture absorption section 126. Furthermore, since the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material that flows into the moisture absorption section 126 is lowered, the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture absorption section 126 can be improved. In addition, in the heat dissipation section 146 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 126 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thereby lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material that flows into the moisture absorption section 126. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation section 148 for the heat dissipation air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the heat dissipation air passage 154 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thereby lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material that flows into the moisture absorption section 126. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 before it flows through the dehumidifying section 122 and the liquid dehumidifying material, which allows the temperature of the air flowing into the dehumidifying section 122 to be increased. Also, because the temperature of the air flowing into the dehumidifying section 122 is increased, the capacity of the dehumidifying section 122 can be improved.

[0112] An outline of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows: (Item 12) The dehumidifier (100) according to Item 10, further comprising a heat dissipation section (44) for a dehumidifying air passage, which is arranged on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage (50) that has flowed through the heat exchange section (40).

[0113] (Item 13) The dehumidifier (100) according to Item 12, further comprising a heat dissipation section (46) for a moisture absorption air passage, which is arranged on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage (52) through which the moisture absorption section (26) has flowed, wherein the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material that has flowed through the dehumidification section (22) flows in the order of the heat dissipation section (46) for the moisture absorption air passage, the heat dissipation section (44) for the dehumidification air passage, and the moisture absorption section (26).

[0114] (Item 14) The dehumidifier (100) according to Item 12, further comprising: a heat dissipation air passage (54) arranged within the housing (10) separately from the moisture dissipation air passage (50) and the moisture absorption air passage (52), through which air introduced from outside the housing (10) flows; and a heat dissipation section (48) for the heat dissipation air passage, arranged on the flow path (20), which dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption and release material to the air in the heat dissipation air passage (54).

[0115] (Item 15) The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 10, further comprising a heat dissipation section (44) for a moisture dissipation air passage, which is arranged on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorbent and dehumidifying material to the air in the moisture dissipation air passage (50) before it flows through the moisture dissipation section (22).

[0116] (Example 6) Example 6 relates to the dehumidifier 100, similar to Examples 4 and 5. The purpose of Example 6 is to further improve the efficiency of dehumidification. Below, Examples 1 through 3 will be described in order, focusing on the differences from Examples 4 and 5.

[0117] Figure 14 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (first example). Compared to Figure 8, the dehumidifier 100 further includes a temperature control unit 160. The temperature control unit 160 includes a heat supply unit 162 and a cold supply unit 164. The heat supply unit 162 is located on the flow path 120 and functions as the heating unit 128 in Examples 4 and 5. In other words, the heat supply unit 162 heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that flows through the moisture absorption unit 126 and is then introduced into the moisture release unit 122. The cold supply unit 164 is located on the moisture release air passage 150 between the heat exchange unit 140 and the air blowing unit 142. The cold supply unit 164 cools the air in the moisture release air passage 150 that has flowed through the heat exchange unit 140.

[0118] Here, the temperature control unit 160 is a heat pump, specifically, for example, a Peltier element or a vapor compression heat pump. The temperature control unit 160 transfers the heat received from the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 in the cooling supply unit 164 to the liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier in the heating supply unit 162. Therefore, the temperature control unit 160 performs heat transport between the cooling supply unit 164 and the heating supply unit 162. For example, the heating supply unit 162 heats the liquid moisture absorber / dehumidifier to, for example, about 55°C. Also, in the cooling supply unit 164, the temperature of the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 decreases from, for example, room temperature (20°C) to a temperature below room temperature (15°C).

[0119] Figure 15 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (second example). Compared to Figure 14, the dehumidifier 100 has a heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage positioned between the dehumidifying section 122 and the drive section 124 on the flow path 120. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage is positioned between the cooling supply section 164 and the air blowing section 142 in the dehumidifying air passage 150. The heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage exchanges heat between the liquid dehumidifying material and the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the cooling supply section 164. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 144 for the dehumidifying air passage releases heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the cooling supply section 164. The temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flowing into the heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture-releasing air passage is, for example, 30°C. The temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material after heat dissipation in the heat dissipation section 144 is lowered to, for example, 15°C by the air from the moisture-releasing air passage 150, which flows through the cooling and heat supply section 164 and into the heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture-releasing air passage, and the air from the moisture-releasing air passage 150, which is, for example, 15°C.

[0120] Figure 16 shows the configuration of the dehumidifier 100 (third example). Compared to Figure 14, the dehumidifier 100 has the moisture absorption air passage heat dissipation section 146 and the moisture release air passage heat dissipation section 144 arranged in order between the moisture release section 122 and the drive section 124 on the flow path 120. In other words, the liquid moisture absorption and release material that flows through the moisture release section 122 flows in the order of moisture absorption air passage heat dissipation section 146, moisture release air passage heat dissipation section 144, drive section 124, and moisture absorption section 126. Furthermore, the moisture release air passage heat dissipation section 144 is positioned between the cooling supply section 164 and the blowing section 142 in the moisture release air passage 150, and the moisture absorption air passage heat dissipation section 146 is positioned between the moisture absorption section 126 and the blowing section 142 in the moisture absorption air passage 152.

[0121] The heat dissipation section 146 for the moisture absorption air passage exchanges heat between the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material and the air in the moisture absorption air passage 152 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 126. Therefore, the heat dissipation section 146 for the moisture absorption air passage releases heat from the liquid moisture absorption / desorption material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage 152 that has flowed through the moisture absorption section 126. The heat dissipation section 144 for the moisture release air passage is the same as in the second example, so its explanation is omitted here.

[0122] In these embodiments (Examples 1 to 3), heat transport is performed between the heat supply unit 162 and the cold supply unit 164, allowing the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 to be further cooled. Also, because heat transport is performed between the heat supply unit 162 and the cold supply unit 164, the increase in power consumption when heating the liquid dehumidifying material can be suppressed. Furthermore, in the heat dissipation unit 146 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 152 that has flowed through the dehumidifying unit 126 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thus lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the dehumidifying unit 126. Also, in the heat dissipation unit 144 for the dehumidifying air passage, heat exchange is performed between the air in the dehumidifying air passage 150 that has flowed through the cold supply unit 164 and the liquid dehumidifying material, thus lowering the temperature of the liquid dehumidifying material flowing into the dehumidifying unit 126 to a temperature lower than the temperature of the air flowing in from the intake port 112. Furthermore, since the temperature of the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material flowing into the moisture-absorbing section 126 is reduced, the moisture absorption capacity of the moisture-absorbing section 126 can be improved.

[0123] A summary of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows: (Item 16) A dehumidifier (100) according to Item 10, comprising a heat supply unit (62) that functions as the heating unit (28), and a cold supply unit (64), further comprising a temperature adjustment unit (60) that performs heat transport between the cold supply unit (64) and the heat supply unit (62), wherein the cold supply unit (64) is located on the dehumidifying air passage (50) and cools the air in the dehumidifying air passage (50) that has flowed through the heat exchange unit (40).

[0124] (Item 17) The dehumidifying device (100) according to Item 16, further comprising a heat dissipation section (44) for a moisture dissipation air passage, which is arranged on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorber to the air in the moisture dissipation air passage (50) that has flowed through the cooling and heat supply section (64).

[0125] (Item 18) The dehumidifier (100) according to Item 17, further comprising a heat dissipation section (46) for a moisture absorption air passage, which is arranged on the flow path (20) and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage (52) through which the moisture absorption section (26) has flowed, wherein the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material that has flowed through the dehumidification section (22) flows in the order of the heat dissipation section (46) for the moisture absorption air passage, the heat dissipation section (44) for the dehumidification air passage, and the moisture absorption section (26).

[0126] Although the present disclosure has been explained above based on the examples, it can be easily inferred that the present disclosure is not limited in any way to the above examples, and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0127] According to this disclosure, power consumption for dehumidification can be reduced.

[0128] 10 Housing, 12 Intake, 14 Outlet, 20 Flow path, 22 Dehumidification section, 24 Heat exchange section, 26 Cooling section, 28 Dehumidification section, 30 Drive section, 32 Heating section, 40 Condensation water recovery section, 42 Air blower section, 50 Main air passage, 60 Refrigerant flow path, 62 Compressor, 64 First heat exchange section, 66 Heat dissipation section, 68 Expansion valve, 70 Second heat exchange section, 80 Bypass air passage, 100 Dehumidifier, 200 Facility, 202 Living space, 204 Non-living space, 210 Heat exchange fan.

Claims

1. A dehumidifying device comprising: a housing having an intake port and an outlet port; a flow path disposed within the housing through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to air flowing within the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing section disposed on the flow path and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to air introduced from the intake port; a condensation water recovery section that recovers at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section as condensation water; a moisture-absorbing section disposed on the flow path and absorbing any moisture remaining in the air that has flowed through the condensation water recovery section; and a heat exchange section disposed on the flow path and performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section and the moisture-releasing section, wherein the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material circulates through the moisture-releasing section and the moisture-absorbing section disposed on the flow path, thereby moving moisture from the moisture-absorbing section to the moisture-releasing section.

2. The dehumidifying device according to claim 1, further comprising: a cooling unit for cooling the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material introduced into the moisture-absorbing unit after it has flowed through the heat exchange unit; and a heating unit for heating the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material introduced into the moisture-releasing unit after it has flowed through the heat exchange unit.

3. The dehumidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the liquid moisture absorber and dehumidifier circulates in the order of the moisture absorption section, the heat exchange section, the heating section, the moisture release section, the heat exchange section, the cooling section, and the moisture absorption section.

4. The dehumidifier according to claim 2, further comprising a refrigerant flow path disposed within the housing through which a refrigerant circulates, and a compressor, a first heat exchange unit, an expansion valve, and a second heat exchange unit disposed on the refrigerant flow path, wherein the first heat exchange unit heats the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit as the heating unit by performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit and the refrigerant that has flowed through the compressor, and the second heat exchange unit cools the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit as the cooling unit by performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the heat exchange unit and the refrigerant that has flowed through the expansion valve.

5. The dehumidifier according to claim 4, wherein the main air passage has an intake port, a moisture release section, a condensation water recovery section, a moisture absorption section, and an outlet port, and further comprises a bypass air passage that does not have a moisture release section, a condensation water recovery section, or a moisture absorption section, and has a heat dissipation section disposed between the first heat exchange section and the expansion valve in the refrigeration cycle, wherein the heat dissipation section dissipates heat to at least a portion of the air introduced from the intake port, and the refrigerant that has flowed through the heat dissipation section flows in order through the expansion valve, the condensation water recovery section, the second heat exchange section, the compressor, and the first heat exchange section.

6. A dehumidifier comprising: a housing having an intake port and an outlet port; a flow path disposed within the housing through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to air flowing within the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing section disposed on the flow path and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to air introduced from the intake port; a condensation water recovery section that recovers at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section as condensation water; a moisture-absorbing section disposed on the flow path and absorbing any remaining moisture in the air that has flowed through the condensation water recovery section; and a heat exchange section disposed on the flow path and performing heat exchange between the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-absorbing section and the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has flowed through the moisture-releasing section, wherein the moisture-absorbing capacity of the moisture-absorbing section is set higher than the moisture-releasing capacity of the moisture-releasing section.

7. The dehumidifier according to claim 6, wherein the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-absorbing portion is larger than the gas-liquid contact surface area of ​​the moisture-releasing portion.

8. The dehumidifier according to claim 7, wherein the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture-absorbing portion is greater than the gas-liquid contact surface area per unit volume of the moisture-releasing portion.

9. A dehumidifying device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, comprising an air passage having an intake port, a moisture discharge section, a condensation water recovery section, a moisture absorption section, and a blowout port, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the moisture absorption section is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the moisture discharge section.

10. A housing; a flow path through which a liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material capable of absorbing or releasing moisture to air flowing within the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing air passage through which air introduced from outside the housing circulates; a moisture-releasing section located on the flow path and releasing moisture from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture-releasing air passage; a moisture-absorbing air passage located within the housing, separately from the moisture-releasing air passage, and through which air introduced from outside the housing circulates; a moisture-absorbing section located on the flow path and absorbing moisture contained in the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage into the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material; a heating section located on the flow path and heating the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material that has circulated through the moisture-absorbing section and introducing it into the moisture-releasing section; a heat exchange section located across the moisture-releasing air passage and the moisture-absorbing air passage and performing heat exchange between the air in the moisture-releasing air passage that has circulated through the moisture-releasing section and the air in the moisture-absorbing air passage before it circulates through the moisture-absorbing section. A dehumidifier equipped with the following features.

11. The dehumidifying device according to claim 10, wherein the heat exchange unit cools at least a portion of the moisture contained in the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the dehumidifying unit to below the dew point and recovers it as condensed water.

12. The dehumidifying device according to claim 10, further comprising a heat dissipation section for a dehumidifying air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the heat exchange section.

13. The dehumidifier according to claim 12, further comprising a heat dissipation section for a moisture absorption air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage through which the moisture absorption section has flowed, wherein the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material that has flowed through the moisture dissipation section flows in the order of the heat dissipation section for the moisture absorption air passage, the heat dissipation section for the moisture dissipation air passage, and the moisture absorption section.

14. The dehumidifying device according to claim 12, further comprising: a heat dissipation air passage arranged within the housing separately from the moisture dissipation air passage and the moisture absorption air passage, through which air introduced from outside the housing flows; and a heat dissipation section for the heat dissipation air passage, arranged on the flow path, which dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption and release material to the air in the heat dissipation air passage.

15. The dehumidifying device according to claim 10, further comprising a heat dissipation section for a moisture dissipation air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture-absorbing and releasing material to the air in the moisture dissipation air passage before it flows through the moisture dissipation section.

16. The dehumidifier according to claim 10, further comprising a heat supply unit that functions as a heating unit and a cold supply unit, and a temperature control unit that performs heat transport between the cold supply unit and the heat supply unit, wherein the cold supply unit is arranged on the dehumidifying air passage and cools the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the heat exchange unit.

17. The dehumidifying device according to claim 16, further comprising a heat dissipation section for a dehumidifying air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid dehumidifying material to the air in the dehumidifying air passage that has flowed through the cooling and heat supply section.

18. The dehumidifier according to claim 17, further comprising a heat dissipation section for a moisture absorption air passage, which is arranged on the flow path and dissipates heat from the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material to the air in the moisture absorption air passage through which the moisture absorption section has flowed, wherein the liquid moisture absorption and dehumidifying material that has flowed through the moisture dissipation section flows in the order of the heat dissipation section for the moisture absorption air passage, the heat dissipation section for the moisture dissipation air passage, and the moisture absorption section.

Images