U.S. patent application number 11/921227 was filed with the patent office on 2009-09-17 for air conditioning system.
Invention is credited to Nobuki Matsui.
Application Number | 20090229294 11/921227 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37481575 |
Filed Date | 2009-09-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090229294 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Matsui; Nobuki |
September 17, 2009 |
Air conditioning system
Abstract
An air conditioning system (1) includes a first humidity
controller (10), a second humidity controller (20), a first air
conditioner (30), a second air conditioner (40), and a interlock
control means (3). The first humidity controller (10) humidifies an
indoor perimeter zone while the second humidity controller (20)
humidifies an indoor interior zone. The first air conditioner (30)
heats/cools the indoor perimeter zone while the second air
conditioner (40) heats/cools the indoor interior zone. Upon input
of dew condensation occurrence information, the first humidity
controller (10) performs a dew removal operation while the first
humidity controller (20), the first air conditioner (30), and the
second air conditioner (40) continue respective operations at input
of the dew condensation occurrence information.
Inventors: |
Matsui; Nobuki; (Osaka,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BIRCH STEWART KOLASCH & BIRCH
PO BOX 747
FALLS CHURCH
VA
22040-0747
US
|
Family ID: |
37481575 |
Appl. No.: |
11/921227 |
Filed: |
May 30, 2006 |
PCT Filed: |
May 30, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2006/310750 |
371 Date: |
November 29, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/271 ;
236/44A |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 3/1411 20130101;
F24F 11/0008 20130101; F24F 2013/221 20130101; F24F 2110/20
20180101; G05D 22/02 20130101; F24F 11/30 20180101; F24F 3/1429
20130101; F24F 2221/54 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
62/271 ;
236/44.A |
International
Class: |
F25D 23/00 20060101
F25D023/00; F24F 3/14 20060101 F24F003/14 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 30, 2005 |
JP |
2005-158141 |
Claims
1. An air conditioning system, comprising: a first humidity
controller (10) which performs a humidification operation on an
indoor perimeter zone by supplying humidified air; a second
humidity controller (20) which performs a humidification operation
on an indoor interior zone by supplying humidified air; input means
(11) which inputs indoor dew condensation occurrence information;
and interlock control means (3) which allows, on the basis of the
dew condensation occurrence information from the input means, the
first humidity controller (10) to perform a dew removal operation
for removing dew by lowering a relative humidity of supplied air
while allowing the second humidity controller (20) to continue the
humidification operation.
2. The air conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the interlock
control means (3) determines a mode for the dew removal operation
on the basis of outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, and indoor
humidity.
3. The air conditioning system of claim 2, wherein the mode for the
dew removal operation is a mode for supplying to the perimeter zone
humidified air of which amount is less than an amount of the
supplied air before input of the dew condensation occurrence
information.
4. The air conditioning system of claim 2, further comprising: an
adsorption member carrying an adsorbent; and heat source means for
heating at least the adsorption member, wherein at least a
humidification mode and a heating mode are executed, the
humidification mode being a mode in which air humidified by being
in contact with the adsorbent is supplied indoors, and the heating
mode being a mode in which air heated by the adsorption member is
supplied indoors, and the dew removal operation mode is the heating
mode.
5. The air conditioning system of claim 2, further comprising: an
adsorption member carrying an adsorbent; and heat source means for
heating at least the adsorption member, wherein at least a
humidification mode and a dehumidification mode are executed, the
humidification mode being a mode in which air humidified by being
in contact with the adsorbent is supplied indoors, and the
dehumidification mode being a mode in which air dehumidified by
being in contact with the adsorbent is discharged outdoors, and the
dew removal operation mode is the dehumidification mode.
6. An air conditioning system comprising: a humidity controller
(10) which performs a humidification operation on indoor air; an
air conditioner (30) which cools/heats the indoor air; input means
(11) which inputs indoor dew condensation occurrence information;
and interlock control means (7) which allows, on the basis of the
dew condensation occurrence information, the air conditioner (30)
to perform a dew removal operation for removing dew by lowering a
relative indoor humidity while allowing the humidity controller
(10) to continue the humidification operation.
7. The air conditioning system of claim 6, wherein the humidity
controller includes a first humidity controller (10) which
humidifies an indoor perimeter zone and a second humidity
controller (20) which humidifies an indoor interior zone, the air
conditioner includes a first air conditioner (30) which heats/cools
the indoor perimeter zone and a second air conditioner (40) which
heats/cools the indoor interior zone, and the interlock control
means (7) allows the first air conditioner (30) to perform the dew
removal operation while allowing the first humidity controller
(10), the second humidity controller (20), and the second air
conditioner (40) to continue respective operations at input of the
dew condensation occurrence information.
8. The air conditioning system of claim 6, wherein a mode for the
dew removal operation is a cooling mode.
9. The air conditioning system of claim 6, wherein a mode for the
dew removal operation is a mode for heating the perimeter zone more
than before input of the dew condensation occurrence
information.
10. The air conditioning system of claim 6, wherein the interlock
control means (7) allows the humidity controller (10) to supply to
the perimeter zone humidified air of which amount is less than that
before input of the dew condensation occurrence information.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to air conditioning systems
and particularly relates to those taking countermeasures against
dew condensation.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Conventionally, air conditioning systems including an air
conditioner and a ventilator are known. As one kind of the
ventilators, a humidity controller is also known which performs
humidification in which dehumidified air is released outdoors while
humidified air is supplied indoors.
[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a humidity
controller which adjusts the humidity of air by allowing an
adsorbent to perform moisture adsorption and desorption. This
humidity controller includes a refrigerant circuit including a
first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger. The refrigerant
circuit performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle by
circulation of refrigerant so that the first and second heat
exchangers condense and evaporate the refrigerant alternately. The
first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger carry an
adsorbent at their surfaces. The humidity controller performs
humidification by performing two operations alternately, wherein
one operation is an operation in which the first heat exchanger
adsorbs moisture from indoor air while at the same time the second
heat exchanger humidifies outdoor air and supplies it indoors and
the other operation is an operation in which the second heat
exchanger adsorbs moisture from the indoor air while at the same
time the first heat exchanger humidifies the outdoor air and
supplies it indoors.
Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid Open
Publication No. 2004-294048
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Problems that the Invention is to Solve
[0004] In some cases, dew condensation may occur on a window of a
building in the humidification by the humidity controller. At
occurrence of dew condensation, the moisture in humidified air
supplied from the humidity controller is only condensed and does
not contribute to an increase in humidity of the indoor air.
Nevertheless, the conventional humidity controller provides no
countermeasure against such dew condensation and, therefore,
continues performing humidification for controlling to set the
humidity of the indoor air at a set humidity value. This means
unnecessary humidification operation performed.
[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the foregoing
and has its object of providing an air conditioning system which
prevents unnecessary humidification operation from being
performed.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] A first aspect of the present invention is directed to an
air conditioning system including a first humidity controller (10)
which performs a humidification operation on an indoor perimeter
zone by supplying humidified air; and a second humidity controller
(20) which performs a humidification operation on an indoor
interior zone by supplying humidified air. Wherein the air
conditioning system further includes: input means (11) which inputs
indoor dew condensation occurrence information; and interlock
control means (3) which allows, on the basis of the dew
condensation occurrence information from the input means, the first
humidity controller (10) to perform a dew removal operation for
removing dew by lowering a relative humidity of supplied air while
allowing the second humidity controller (20) to continue the
humidification operation.
[0007] In the first aspect, when dew condensation occurs in the
humidification operation, the user will set the target humidity low
through the input means, such as a remote controller or the like.
Alternatively, the user inputs the dew condensation occurrence
information through a dew condensation switch or the like. In other
words, the information relating to dew condensation is input
through the input means. On the basis of this dew condensation
occurrence information, the first humidity controller (10) performs
the dew removal operation for lowering the relative indoor
humidity. As a result, the indoor dew is removed to prevent
unnecessary humidification operation from being performed.
[0008] Referring to a second aspect of the present invention, in
the first aspect, the interlock control means (3) determines a mode
for the dew removal operation on the basis of outdoor temperature,
outdoor humidity, and indoor humidity.
[0009] In the second aspect, the interlock control means (3)
determines the mode for the dew removal operation on the basis of
the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the indoor
humidity. This attains definite removal of the dew.
[0010] Referring to a third aspect of the present invention, in the
second aspect, the mode for the dew removal operation is a mode for
supplying to the perimeter zone humidified air of which amount is
less than an amount of the supplied air before input of the dew
condensation occurrence information.
[0011] In the third aspect, when the dew condensation occurrence
information is input, the amount of humidified air supplied indoors
from the first humidity controller (11) is reduced to reduce the
amount of dew generated. This prevents unnecessary humidification
from being performed.
[0012] Referring to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in
the second aspect, the air conditioning system further includes: an
adsorption member carrying an adsorbent; and heat source means for
heating at least the adsorption member, wherein at least a
humidification mode and a heating mode are executed, the
humidification mode being a mode in which air humidified by being
in contact with the adsorbent is supplied indoors, and the heating
mode being a mode in which air heated by the adsorption member is
supplied indoors, and the dew removal operation mode is the heating
mode.
[0013] In the fourth aspect, the first humidity controller (10)
performs the dehumidification operation to dehumidify the perimeter
zone. This removes the dew to prevent unnecessary humidification
operation from being performed.
[0014] Referring to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the
second aspect, the air conditioning system further includes: an
adsorption member carrying an adsorbent; and heat source means for
heating at least the adsorption member, wherein at least a
humidification mode and a dehumidification mode are executed, the
humidification mode being a mode in which air humidified by being
in contact with the adsorbent is supplied indoors, and the
dehumidification mode being a mode in which air dehumidified by
being in contact with the adsorbent is discharged outdoors, and the
dew removal operation mode is the dehumidification mode.
[0015] In the fifth aspect, the first humidity controller (10)
performs the heating operation to increase the temperature of the
surface of a window, thereby increasing the dew point temperature.
As a result, the dew evaporates and unnecessary humidification
operation is prevented from being performed.
[0016] A sixth aspect of the present invention is directed to an
air conditioning system including: a humidity controller (10) which
performs a humidification operation on indoor air; and an air
conditioner (30) which cools/heats the indoor air. Wherein, the air
conditioning system further includes: input means (11) which inputs
indoor dew condensation occurrence information; and interlock
control means (7) which allows, on the basis of the dew
condensation occurrence information, the air conditioner (30) to
perform a dew removal operation for removing dew by lowering a
relative indoor humidity while allowing the humidity controller
(10) to continue the humidification operation.
[0017] In the sixth aspect, when dew condensation occurs in the
humidification operation, the user will remove the dew through
input through the input means, such as a remote controller or the
like. Alternatively, the user inputs the dew condensation
occurrence information through the dew condensation switch or the
like. In other words, the information relating to dew condensation
is input through the input means. On the basis of this dew
condensation occurrence information, the air conditioner (30)
performs the dew removal operation for lowering the relative indoor
humidity. As a result, the indoor dew is removed to prevent
unnecessary humidification operation from being performed.
[0018] Referring to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in
the sixth aspect, the humidity controller includes a first humidity
controller (10) which humidifies an indoor perimeter zone and a
second humidity controller (20) which humidifies an indoor interior
zone, the air conditioner includes a first air conditioner (30)
which heats/cools the indoor perimeter zone and a second air
conditioner (40) which heats/cools the indoor interior zone, and
the interlock control means (7) allows the first air conditioner
(30) to perform the dew removal operation while allowing the first
humidity controller (10), the second humidity controller (20), and
the second air conditioner (40) to continue respective operations
at input of the dew condensation occurrence information.
[0019] In the seventh aspect, the first air conditioner (30)
performs the dew removal operation, thereby attaining definite dew
removal.
[0020] Referring to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in
the sixth or seventh aspect, a mode for the dew removal operation
is a cooling mode.
[0021] In the eighth aspect, the air conditioner (30) performs the
cooling operation so that the indoor air is cooled and
dehumidified. As a result, the dew is removed and unnecessary
humidification operation is prevented from being performed.
[0022] Referring to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the
sixth or seventh aspect, a mode for the dew removal operation is a
mode for heating the perimeter zone more than before input of the
dew condensation occurrence information.
[0023] In the ninth aspect, the air conditioner (30) performs the
heating operation, upon input of the dew condensation occurrence
information, so as to increase the indoor temperature higher than
the target temperature. This increases the temperature of the
surface of a window to increase the dew point temperature. As a
result, the dew is removed and unnecessary humidification operation
is prevented from being performed.
[0024] Referring to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the
sixth or seventh aspect, the interlock control means (7) allows the
humidity controller (10) to supply to the perimeter zone humidified
air of which amount is less than that before input of the dew
condensation occurrence information.
[0025] In the tenth aspect, the amount of humidified air supplied
indoors from the humidity controller can be reduced through input
of the dew condensation occurrence information. As a result, the
amount of dew generated can be reduced further and unnecessary
humidification operation can be prevented from being performed
further definitely when compared with the case where the first
humidity controller performs the dew removal operation as in the
first aspect and the case where the air conditioner performs the
dew removal operation as in the sixth aspect.
EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0026] According to the present invention, when dew condensation
occurs, the first humidifier (10) performs the dew removal
operation to suppress unnecessary operation. As a result, energy
conservation can be achieved.
[0027] In the second aspect of the present invention, the optimum
mode for the dew removal operation is determined according to the
conditions of the outdoor air and the indoor air, thereby attaining
definite dew removal.
[0028] According to the third aspect of the present invention, the
amount of humidified air supplied indoors from the first humidity
controller (10) can be reduced through input of the dew
condensation occurrence information. This prevents unnecessary
humidification operation from being performed to achieve energy
conservation.
[0029] In the fourth aspect of the present invention, the first
humidity controller (10) performs the dehumidification operation to
lower the absolute indoor humidity, thereby removing the dew.
[0030] In the fifth aspect of the present invention, the first
humidity controller (10) performs the heating operation to lower
the relative indoor humidity, thereby removing the dew.
[0031] In the sixth aspect of the present invention, when dew
condensation occurs, the air conditioner (30) performs the dew
removal operation to suppress unnecessary operation. As a result,
energy conservation can be achieved.
[0032] In the seventh aspect of the present invention, the first
air conditioner (30) performs the dew removal operation to suppress
unnecessary operation definitely.
[0033] In the eighth aspect of the present invention, the air
conditioner (30) or the first air conditioner (30) performs the
cooling operation to lower the absolute indoor humidity, thereby
removing the dew.
[0034] In the ninth aspect of the present invention, the air
conditioner (30) or the first air conditioner (30) performs the
heating operation so as to increase the indoor temperature higher
than the target temperature to lower the relative indoor humidity
further, thereby removing the dew.
[0035] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, not
only the dew removal operation by the air conditioner (30) or the
first air conditioner (30) but also the humidification operation by
the humidity controller can be saved, with a result that the
relative indoor humidity can be lowered further than the cases of
the first aspect to the ninth aspect, leading to removal of the
dew.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing an air conditioning
system in accordance with Embodiment 1.
[0037] FIG. 2 presents piping diagrams showing a construction of
each refrigerant circuit in accordance with Embodiment 1, wherein
FIG. 2(A) shows an operation during a first operation and FIG. 2(B)
shows an operation during a second operation.
[0038] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an adsorption heat
exchanger.
[0039] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a humidity controller in
accordance with Embodiment 3.
[0040] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a humidity controller in
accordance with Embodiment 4.
[0041] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a humidity controller in
accordance with Embodiment 5.
[0042] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a humidity controller in
accordance with Embodiment 6.
[0043] FIG. 8 presents schematic constitutional diagrams of each
humidity controller in accordance with Modified Example 1 in other
embodiments, wherein FIG. 8(A) shows an operation during a first
operation and FIG. 8(B) shows an operation during a second
operation.
[0044] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a humidity control
unit in accordance with Modified Example 2 in the other
embodiments.
EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0045] 1, 5 air conditioning system [0046] 3, 7 interlock control
means [0047] 10 first humidity controller [0048] 11, 21, 31, 41
input means [0049] 20 second humidity controller [0050] 30 air
conditioner (first air conditioner) [0051] 61 first humidification
operation control means [0052] 71 second humidification operation
control means [0053] 81 cooling/heating operation control means
(first cooling/heating control means)
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0054] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below
in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Embodiment 1
[0055] The present embodiment is applied to, as shown in FIG. 1, an
air conditioning system including a humidity controller capable of
performing a dehumidification operation for supplying dehumidified
air indoors and a humidification operation for supplying humidified
air indoors and an air conditioner capable of performing a cooling
operation for cooling indoor air and a heating operation for
heating indoor air.
[0056] The above air conditioning system (1) includes a first
humidity controller (10), a second humidity controller (20), a
first air conditioner (30), a second air conditioner (40), and
interlock control means (3). The humidity controller (10) supplies
humidified air to a perimeter zone and includes input means (11)
and a first humidity control section (60). The second humidity
controller (20) supplies humidified air to a zone other than the
perimeter zone and includes input means (21) and a second humidity
control section (70). The first air conditioner (30) cools/heats
the perimeter zone and includes input means (31) and a first air
conditioning controller (80). The second air conditioner (40)
cools/heats a zone other than the perimeter zone and includes input
means (41) and a second air conditioning controller (90). The
interlock control means (3) is connected to each input means (11,
21, 31, 41), the first and second humidity control sections (60,
70), and the first and second air conditioning controller (80,
90).
[0057] It is noted that though the input means (11, 21, 31, 41) are
provided to the humidity controllers (10, 20) and the air
conditioners (30, 40), respectively, only one input means, such as
a remote controller may be provided instead.
[0058] Each of the first and second humidity controllers (10, 20)
includes a refrigerant circuit (50), as shown in FIG. 2. Each
refrigerant circuit (50) is a closed circuit in which a first
adsorption heat exchanger (51), a second adsorption heat exchanger
(52), a compressor (53), a four-way switching valve (54), and a
motor-operated expansion valve (55) are provided. Each refrigerant
circuit (50) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle by
circulating refrigerant filled therein.
[0059] In each refrigerant circuit (50): the compressor (53) is
connected at the discharge side thereof to the first port of the
four-way switching valve (54) and connected at the suction side
thereof to the second port of the four-way switching valve (54);
one end of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is connected to
the third port of the four-way switching valve (54); the other end
thereof is connected to one end of the second adsorption heat
exchanger (52) through the motor-operated expansion valve (55); and
the other end of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is
connected to the fourth port of the four-way switching valve
(54).
[0060] Each four-way switching valve (54) is switched between a
first state shown in FIG. 2(A) and a second state shown in FIG.
2(B), wherein the first state is such a state that the first port
and the third port communicate with each other while the second
port and the fourth port communicated with each other, and the
second state is such a state that the first port and the fourth
port communicate with each other while the second port and the
third port communicate with each other.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 3, each of the first adsorption heat
exchangers (51) and the second adsorption heat exchangers (52) is
composed of a fin and tube heat exchanger of cross fin type. Each
adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) includes copper-made heat
transfer tubes (58) and aluminum-made fins (57). The plurality of
fins (57) provided at each adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) have
a rectangular plate shape and are arranged at regular intervals.
The heat transfer tubes (58) pass through the fines (57).
[0062] In each adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), an adsorbent is
carried on the surface of each fin (57) to serve as an adsorption
member, and air passing among the fins (57) is in contact with the
adsorbent on the surface of the fins (57). As the adsorbent, any
material capable of adsorbing vapor in air may be used, such as
zeolite, silica gel, activated carbon, organic polymeric material
including a hydrophilic functional group, or the like.
[0063] The first and second humidity controllers (10, 20) includes,
as described above, the first and second humidity control sections
(60, 70), respectively. The first and second humidity control
sections (60, 70) include first and second humidification operation
control means (61, 71), respectively. Further, each of the first
and second humidity control sections (60, 70) receives temperature
or humidity information from an outdoor temperature sensor for
detecting the outdoor temperature, an outdoor humidity sensor for
detecting the outdoor humidity, an indoor temperature sensor for
detecting the indoor temperature, and an indoor humidity sensor for
detecting the indoor humidity, though not shown.
[0064] The first humidity operation control means (61) is switched
by the interlock control means (3) among a humidification saving
operation, a dehumidification operation, and a heating
operation.
[0065] The humidification saving operation is an operation in which
the amount of the refrigerant circulating in the corresponding
refrigerant circuit (50) is reduced to reduce the amount of the
humidified air supplied indoors.
[0066] The dehumidification operation is an operation in which one
of the adsorption heat exchangers dehumidifies outdoor air and
supplies it indoors while the other adsorption heat exchanger
allows indoor air to release moisture and discharges it
outdoors.
[0067] The heating operation is an operation in which one of the
adsorption heat exchangers heats the outdoor air and supplies it
indoors while the other adsorption heat exchanger cools the indoor
air and discharges it outdoors.
[0068] The second humidification operation control means (71) is so
composed to execute an operation mode (a humidification operation
mode) set by the user even upon input of dew condensation
occurrence information.
[0069] The first and second air conditioners (30, 40) include, as
described above, the first and second air conditioning controller
(80,90), respectively. The first and second air condition
controllers (80, 90) include first and second air conditioning
operation control means (81, 91), respectively. Each of the first
and second air condition controllers (80, 90) receives temperature
or humidity information from an outdoor temperature sensor for
detecting the outdoor temperature, an outdoor humidity sensor for
detecting the outdoor humidity, an indoor temperature sensor for
detecting the indoor temperature, and an indoor humidity sensor for
detecting the indoor humidity, though not shown.
[0070] The first and second air conditioning control means (81, 91)
are so composed to execute an operation mode set by the user even
upon input of the dew condensation occurrence information.
[0071] The interlock control means (3) receives the dew
condensation occurrence information from the input means (11, 21,
31, 41) and determines a mode for a dew removal operation on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor humidity to allow the first humidity controller (10) to
execute the mode for the dew removal operation and to allow the
second humidity controller (20) and the first and second air
conditioners (30, 40) to execute the respective operation modes set
by the user.
[0072] --Driving Operation--
[0073] Description will be made first about a dehumidification
operation and a humidification operation by the first and second
humidity controllers (10, 20) of the air conditioning system in
accordance with the present embodiment.
[0074] The first and second humidity controllers (10, 20) perform
the dehumidification operation and the humidification operation.
During the dehumidification operation or the humidification
operation, the first and second humidity controllers (10, 20)
controls the humidity of taken outdoor air (OA) and supplies it as
supply air (SA) indoors while discharging taken indoor air (RA) as
exhaust air (EA) outdoors. In other words, the first and second
humidity controllers (10, 20) during the dehumidification operation
or the humidification operation perform indoor air ventilation. The
first and second humidity controllers (10, 20) repeat a first
operation and a second operation alternately every predetermined
time period (three minutes, for example) in both the
dehumidification operation and the humidification operation.
[0075] The first and second humidity controllers (10, 20) take the
outdoor air (OA) as first air and the indoor air (RA) as second air
during the dehumidification operation. In contrast, the first and
second humidity controllers (10, 20) take the indoor air (RA) as
the first air and the outdoor air (OA) as the second air during the
humidification operation.
[0076] The first operation will be described first in each
refrigerant circuit (50). During the first operation, the second
air and the first air are sent to the first adsorption heat
exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52),
respectively. In the first operation, a regeneration operation in
the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and an adsorption
operation in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) are
performed.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 2(A), in each refrigerant circuit (50)
during the first operation, the four-way switching valve (54) is
set in the first state. When the compressor (53) is operated, the
refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit (50).
Specifically, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53)
releases heat to be condensed in the first adsorption heat
exchanger (51). The refrigerant condensed in the first adsorption
heat exchanger (51) is reduced in pressure when passing through the
motor-operated expansion valve (55) and absorbs heat to be
evaporated in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). The
refrigerant evaporated in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52)
is sucked into and compressed by the compressor (53) and is then
discharged from the compressor (53) again.
[0078] In this way, in each refrigerant circuit (50) during the
first operation, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as
a condenser while the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves
as an evaporator. In the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the
adsorbent on the surfaces of the fins (57) is heated by the
refrigerant in the heat transfer tubes (58), and the moisture
desorbed from the heated adsorbent is provided to the second air.
On the other hand, in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52),
moisture in the first air is adsorbed to the adsorbent on the
surfaces of the fins (57) and the thus generated adsorption heat is
adsorbed to the refrigerant in the heat transfer tubes (58).
[0079] Then, in the dehumidification operation, the first air
dehumidified in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is
supplied indoors while the moisture desorbed from the first
adsorption heat exchanger (51) is discharged outdoors together with
the second air. In contrast, in the humidification operation, the
second air humidified in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51)
is supplied indoors while the first air from which moisture is
removed in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is discharged
outdoors.
[0080] The second operation in each refrigerant circuit (50) will
be described next. During the second operation, the first air and
the second air are sent to the first adsorption heat exchanger (51)
and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), respectively. In the
second operation, a regeneration operation in the second adsorption
heat exchanger (52) and an adsorption operation in the first
adsorption heat exchanger (51) are performed.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 2(B), in each refrigerant circuit (50)
during the second operation, the four-way switching valve (54) is
set in the second state. When the compressor (53) is operated, the
refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit (50).
Specifically, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53)
releases heat to be condensed in the second adsorption heat
exchanger (52). The refrigerant condensed in the second adsorption
heat exchanger (52) is reduced in pressure when passing through the
motor-operated expansion valve (55) and absorbs heat to be
evaporated in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). The
refrigerant evaporated in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51)
is sucked into and compressed by the compressor (53) and is then
discharged from the compressor (53) again.
[0082] In this way, in each refrigerant circuit (50) during the
second operation, the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves
as a condenser while the first adsorption heat exchanger (51)
serves as an evaporators. In the second adsorption heat exchanger
(52), the adsorbent on the surfaces of the fins (57) is heated by
the refrigerant in the heat transfer tubes (58), and the moisture
desorbed from the heated adsorbent is provided to the second air.
On the other hand, in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51),
moisture in the first air is adsorbed to the adsorbent on the
surfaces of the fins (57) and the thus generated adsorption heat is
adsorbed to the refrigerant in the heat transfer tubes (58).
[0083] Then, in the dehumidification operation, the first air
dehumidified in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is
supplied indoors while the moisture desorbed from the second
adsorption heat exchanger (52) is discharged outdoors together with
the second air. In contrast, in the humidification operation, the
second air humidified in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52)
is supplied indoors while the first air from which moisture is
removed in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is discharged
outdoors.
[0084] Control on dew removal will be described next.
[0085] In the air conditioning system (1) in accordance with the
present embodiment, the user inputs to set a target indoor humidity
through a remote controller or the like in the humidification
operation or the dehumidification operation. The humidification
operation or the dehumidification operation is performed on the
basis of the thus set target humidity so that the indoor humidity
reaches the set target humidity.
[0086] In the humidification operation, dew condensation may occur
according to the set target humidity and/or outdoor air conditions.
When dew condensation occurs, the user operates an input switch to
inform dew condensation occurrence. For example, when the user
turns on a humidity setting down switch or turns on a dedicated dew
condensation switch, information on dew condensation is input.
[0087] The input switch is composed of a remote controller or the
like including a dew condensation switch, a humidity setting down
switch, or the like. The input switch is a switch that the user
turns on when dew condensation occurs on an indoor window or the
like in the humidification operation.
[0088] When the user inputs the dew condensation occurrence
information, the interlock control means (3) receives the
information. The interlock control means (3) allows the first
humidity controller (10) to perform the dew removal operation while
allowing the second humidity controller (20) to continue the
humidification operation. The interlock control means (3) allows
the first and second air conditioners (30, 40) to perform the
respective operations set by the user even upon input of the dew
condensation occurrence information.
[0089] A mode for the dew removal operation is determined on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor temperature. For example, in the case where the outdoor air
is low temperature and low humidity, namely, when the outdoor air
is lower than the temperature range between 10 and 15.degree. C.
and the absolute outdoor humidity is lower than the absolute indoor
humidity, the interlock control means (3) selects a heating
operation mode as the mode for the dew removal operation.
Specifically, the outdoor air is supplied indoors through an
adsorption heat exchanger serving as a condenser without switching
the refrigerant circulation in the refrigerant circuits (50).
[0090] In contrast, in the case where the outdoor air is low
temperature and high humidity, namely, when the outdoor air is
lower than the temperature range between 10 and 15.degree. C. and
the absolute outdoor humidity is higher than the absolute indoor
humidity, the interlock control means (3) selects a
dehumidification operation mode as the mode for the dew removal
operation. Specifically, the above-described dehumidification
operation is performed.
[0091] As well, in the case where the outdoor air is high
temperature and high humidity, namely, when the outdoor air is
higher than the temperature range between 10 and 15.degree. C. and
the absolute outdoor humidity is higher than the absolute indoor
humidity, the interlock control means (3) selects the
dehumidification operation mode as the mode for the dew removal
operation. Specifically, the above-described dehumidification
operation is performed.
[0092] Further, in the case where the outdoor air is high
temperature and low humidity, namely, when the outdoor air is
higher than the temperature range between 10 and 15.degree. C. and
the absolute outdoor humidity is lower than the absolute indoor
humidity, the interlock control means (3) selects a humidification
saving operation mode as the mode for the dew removal operation.
Specifically, an operation is performed so that the amount of the
refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit (50) is reduced
to reduce the degree of humidification.
Effects of Embodiment 1
[0093] In the present embodiment, upon receipt of the information
from the user, the interlock control means (3) allows the first
humidity controller (10) to perform the dew removal operation.
Specifically, the interlock control means (3) determines the mode
for the dew removal operation on the basis of the outdoor
temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the indoor humidity to allow
the first humidity controller (10) to execute the thus determined
mode. Accordingly, the dew can be removed definitely. With no
humidification operation performed in occurrence of the dew
condensation, unnecessary humidification operation can be prevented
from being performed, thereby achieving energy conservation.
[0094] When the outdoor air is low temperature and low humidity,
the interlock control means (3) selects the heating operation mode
to increase the temperature of the indoor air. This increases the
dew point temperature of the indoor air to remove the dew.
[0095] When the outdoor air is low temperature and high humidity or
high temperature and high humidity, the interlock control means (3)
selects the dehumidification operation mode to dehumidify the
indoor air. This causes the adsorbent to adsorb the moisture of the
dew, thereby removing the dew.
[0096] When the outdoor air is high temperature and low humidity,
the interlock control means (3) selects a ventilation mode to allow
high-temperature air to be supplied indoors. As a result, the
temperature of the indoor air increases to increase the dew point
of the indoor air, thereby removing the dew.
Embodiment 2 of the Invention
[0097] Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. An
air conditioning system (5) in accordance with the present
embodiment allows, upon input of the dew condensation occurrence
information, the first air conditioner (30) to perform the dew
removal operation to lower the relative humidity of the indoor
air.
[0098] The first and second humidification operation control means
(61, 71) are so composed to perform the respective operations set
by the user even upon input of the dew condensation occurrence
information.
[0099] The first air conditioning control means (81) is switched by
interlock control means (7) between a cooling operation and a
high-power heating operation.
[0100] The cooling operation is an operation for cooling and
dehumidifying the perimeter zone.
[0101] The high-power heating operation is an operation for heating
the perimeter zone more than a zone other than the perimeter
zone.
[0102] The second air conditioning control means (91) is so
composed to perform the operation set by the user even upon input
of the dew condensation occurrence information.
[0103] The interlock control means (7) determines, upon input of
the dew condensation occurrence information from the input means
(31), the mode for the dew removal operation on the basis of the
outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the indoor humidity
to allow the first air conditioner (30) to execute the dew removal
operation mode and to allow the first and second humidity
controllers (10, 20) and the second air conditioner (40) to execute
the respective operation modes set by the user.
[0104] Control on dew removal will be described next.
[0105] When the dew condensation occurrence information is input,
the interlock control means (7) receives the information. The
interlock control means (7) allows the first air conditioner (30)
to perform the dew removal operation.
[0106] The mode for the dew removal operation is determined on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor temperature. Specifically, in the case where the user feel
not so uncomfortable in a season when the indoor air is cooled,
such as spring and summer, the first air conditioner (30) performs
the cooling operation. On the other hand, in the case where the
user feels not so uncomfortable in a season when the indoor air is
heated, such as autumn and winter, the first air conditioner (30)
performs the heating operation.
Effects of Embodiment 2
[0107] In the present embodiment, upon receipt of the information
from the user, the interlock control means (3) allows the first air
conditioner (30) to perform the dew removal operation.
Specifically, the interlock control means (7) determines the mode
for the dew removal operation on the basis of the outdoor
temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the indoor humidity to allow
the first air conditioner (30) to execute the thus selected mode,
thereby removing dew definitely. With no humidification operation
performed in occurrence of dew condensation, unnecessary
humidification operation can be prevented from being performed to
achieve energy conservation.
[0108] When the interlock control means (7) selects the cooing
operation mode, the indoor air is dehumidified, thereby removing
the dew.
[0109] When the interlock control means (7) selects the high-power
heating operation mode, the surface of the window is heated to
evaporate the dew, thereby removing the dew.
Modified Example 1
[0110] In an air conditioning system in accordance with Modified
Example 1, not only the air conditioner (30) but also the first
humidity controller (10) performs the dew removal operation.
[0111] Specifically, the first humidity controller (10) is so
controlled by the interlock control means (7) to perform the dew
removal operation. The interlock control means (7) allows, upon
input of the dew condensation occurrence information, the first
humidity controller (10) and the first air conditioner (30) to
perform the dew removal operation.
[0112] Namely, when the dew condensation occurrence information is
input though input operation by the user, the interlock control
means (7) receives the information. The interlock control means (7)
allows the first humidity controller (10) and the first air
conditioner (30) to perform the dew removal operation. The mode for
the dew removal operation is determined on the basis of the outdoor
temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the indoor humidity, as in
Embodiments 1 and 2.
Effects of Modified Example 1
[0113] In Modified Example 1, the interlock control operation (7)
allows, upon receipt of the information from the user, the first
humidity controller (10) and the first air conditioner (30) to
perform the dew removal operation. This further removes the dew
when compared with Embodiments 1 and 2.
Embodiment 3
[0114] Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. An
air conditioning system in accordance with the present embodiment
includes a first humidity controller having a configuration
different from that in the air conditioning system (1) of
Embodiment 1. Specifically, the air conditioning system of the
present embodiment includes a first humidity controller (200) shown
in FIG. 4, the second humidity controller (20) shown in FIG. 1 and
FIG. 2, the first and second air conditioners (30, 40) shown in
FIG. 2, and the interlock control means (3) shown in FIG. 1.
[0115] The first humidity controller (200) supplies humidified air
to the perimeter zone and includes, similarly to the humidity
controller (10) in Embodiment 1, the input means and the first
humidification operation control means.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 4, the first humidity controller (200)
includes a casing (210) in a hollowed cuboid form. The casing (210)
includes a pair of opposite-side faces, in one of which an air
discharge port (212) and an outdoor air suction port (211) are
formed adjacently to each other while in the other of which an
indoor air suction port (213) and an air supply port (214) are
formed adjacently to each other. Inside the casing (210), there are
formed a first air discharge side passage (215) communicating with
the indoor air suction port (213), a second air discharge side
passage (216) communicating with the air discharge port (212), a
first air supply side passage (217) communicating with the outdoor
air suction port (211), and a second air supply side passage (218)
communicating with the air supply port (214). The second air
discharge side passage (216) is provided with an air discharge fan
(225) while the second air supply side passage (218) is provided
with an air supply fan (226).
[0117] In the casing (210), a total heat exchanger (220) as a
humidity control member is accommodated. The total heat exchanger
(220) includes a plurality of air passages through which the indoor
air flows and a plurality of air passages through which the outdoor
air flows so that heat and moisture are exchanged between the
indoor air and the outdoor air. The total heat exchanger (220) is
formed in a square pole form as a whole, wherein the air passages
through which the indoor air flows are open to two opposite side
faces out of the longitudinally extending side faces while the
other air passages through which the outdoor air flows are open to
the other two opposite side faces. In the total heat exchanger
(220), the air passages through which the indoor air flows
communicate with the first air discharge side passage (215) and the
second air discharge side passage (216) while the air passages
through which the outdoor air flows communicate with the first air
supply side passage (217) and the second air supply side passage
(218).
[0118] In the casing (210), a humidification element (221) is also
accommodated. The humidification element (221) is arranged
downstream of the air supply fan (226) of the second air supply
side passage (218). The humidification element (221) is allowed to
be in contact with moisture and air through a moisture-permeable
film or directly to humidify the air passing there.
[0119] The first humidity controller (200) is switched by the
interlock control means (3) between a humidification saving
operation and a dehumidification operation.
[0120] The humidification saving operation is an operation for
reducing the amount of humidified air supplied indoors by
controlling the degree of humidification by the humidification
element (221).
[0121] The dehumidification operation is an operation for supplying
indoors the outside air cooled and at the same time dehumidified in
the total heat exchanger (220) by moving heat and moisture in the
outside air to the indoor air in the total heat exchanger
(220).
[0122] The second humidity controller (20) and the first and second
air conditioners (30, 40) are so composed to perform the respective
operation modes set by the user even upon input of the dew
condensation occurrence information.
[0123] The interlock control means (3) allows, upon input of the
dew condensation occurrence information, the first humidity
controller (200) to perform the dew removal operation while
allowing the second humidity controller (20) and the first and
second air conditioners (30, 40) to perform the respective
operations set by the user.
[0124] A driving operation of the first humidity controller (200)
will be described.
[0125] When the air discharge fan (225) and the air supply fan
(226) are operated, the outdoor air taken from the outdoor air
suction port (211) and the indoor air taken from the indoor air
suction port (213) are sent into the total heat exchanger (220). In
the total heat exchanger (220), heat and moisture are exchanged
between the taken outdoor air and the taken indoor air.
[0126] For example, in the case where the room is heated in winter,
the outdoor air is lower in temperature and drier than the indoor
air. Accordingly, in the total heat exchanger (220), heat and
moisture in the indoor air move to the outdoor air. Then, the
outdoor air heated and at the same time humidified in the total
heat exchanger (220) is supplied indoors while the indoor air
having passed through the total heat exchanger (220) is discharged
outdoors.
[0127] When tap water or the like is supplied to the humidification
element (221), the air having passed through the total heat
exchanger (220) and flowing in the second air supply side passage
(218) is humidified when passing through the humidification element
(221) and is then supplied indoors from the air supply port
(214).
[0128] On the other hand, in the case where the room is cooled in
summer, the outdoor air is higher in temperature and damper than
the indoor air. Accordingly, in the total heat exchanger (220),
heat and moisture in the outdoor air move to the indoor air. Then,
the outdoor air cooled and at the same time dehumidified in the
total heat exchanger (220) is supplied indoors while the indoor air
having passed through the total heat exchanger (220) is discharged
outdoors.
[0129] Control on dew removal will be described next.
[0130] The interlock control means (3) of the air conditioning
system of the present invention receives, upon input of the dew
condensation occurrence information, the information to allow the
first humidity controller (200) to perform the dew removal
operation and to allow the second humidity controller (20) and the
first and second air conditioners (30, 40) to continue the
respective operations set by the user.
[0131] The mode for the dew removal operation is determined on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor temperature. For example, when the outdoor air is low
temperature and high humidity or high temperature and high
humidity, the interlock control means (3) selects the
dehumidification operation mode as the mode for the dew removal
operation. Specifically, the operation performed in summer is
performed.
[0132] In contrast, when the outdoor air is high temperature and
low humidity, the interlock control section (3) selects the
humidification saving operation mode as the mode for the dew
removal operation. Specifically, the degree of humidification by
the humidification element (221) is controlled.
Effects of Embodiment 3
[0133] The air conditioning system in accordance with the present
embodiment exhibits substantially the same effects as the air
conditioning system in accordance with Embodiment 1.
Embodiment 4
[0134] Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. A
humidity controller of an air conditioning system in accordance
with the present embodiment is a humidity controller (200) as in
Embodiment 3 to which a heating heat exchanger (223) is added. In
detail, the air conditioning system of the present embodiment
includes a first humidity controller (250) shown in FIG. 5, the
second humidity controller (20) shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the
first and second air conditioners (30, 40) shown in FIG. 1, and the
interlock control means (3) shown in FIG. 1.
[0135] The first humidity controller (250) supplies humidified air
to the perimeter zone and includes, similarly to the first humidity
controller (10) in Embodiment 1, the input means and the first
humidification operation control means.
[0136] As shown in FIG. 5, the heating heat exchanger (223) is
arranged in the second air supply side passage (218) between the
air supply fan (226) and the humidification element (221). The
heating heat exchanger (223) is connected to a refrigerant circuit
that performs a refrigeration cycle so as to serve as a condenser
by performing heat exchange between the refrigerant and air.
[0137] In the humidity controller including the heating heat
exchanger (223), in order to humidify air to be supplied indoors,
tap water is supplied to the humidification element (221) to allow
the heating heat exchanger (223) to serve as a condenser. In this
case, the air having passed through the total heat exchanger (220)
and flowing in the second air supply side passage (218) is heated
when passing through the heating heat exchanger (223), is
humidified when passing through the humidification element (221),
and is then supplied indoors from the air supply port (214).
[0138] The operation for drying the total heat exchanger (220) is
performed as described above in the humidity controller including
the heating heat exchanger (223). In other words, only one of the
indoor air and the outdoor air which is comparatively low in
humidity is supplied to the total heat exchanger (220) to dry the
total heat exchanger (220). On the other hand, as the operation for
drying the humidification element (221), water is discharged from
the humidification element (221) while the heating heat exchanger
(223) is allowed to condense the refrigerant with only the air
supply fan (226) operated. In this state, the outdoor air taken in
the casing (210) is heated in the heating heat exchanger (223) and
passes through the humidification element (221), thereby drying the
humidification element (221).
[0139] The first humidity controller (250) is switched by the
interlock control means (3) among a humidification saving
operation, a dehumidification operation, and a heating
operation.
[0140] The humidification saving operation and the dehumidification
operation are substantially the same as the humidification saving
operation and the dehumidification operation, respectively, by the
first humidity controller (200) in Embodiment 3.
[0141] The heating operation is an operation for operating the
heating heat exchanger (223) with the humidification element (221)
stopped operating.
[0142] Control on dew removal will be described next.
[0143] The interlock control means (3) of the air conditioning
system of the present embodiment receives, upon input of the dew
condensation occurrence information, the information to allow the
first humidity controller (250) to perform the dew removal
operation and to allow the second humidity controller (20) and the
first and second air conditioners to perform the respective
operations set by the user.
[0144] The mode for the dew removal operation is determined on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor temperature. For example, in the case where the outdoor air
is low temperature and low humidity, the interlock control means
(3) selects the heating operation mode as the mode for the dew
removal operation. Specifically, the heating heat exchanger (223)
is operated with the humidification element (221) stopped
operating.
[0145] In the case where the outdoor air is low temperature and
high humidity or is high temperature and high humidity, the
interlock control means (3) selects the dehumidification operation
mode as the mode for the dew removal operation. The specific
operation thereof is the same as that in Embodiment 3.
[0146] Further, in the case where the outdoor air is high
temperature and low humidity, the interlock control means (3)
selects the humidification saving operation mode as the mode for
the dew removal operation. The specific operation thereof is the
same as that in Embodiment 3.
Effects of Embodiment 4
[0147] The air conditioning system in accordance with the present
embodiment exhibits substantially the same effects as the air
conditioning system in accordance with Embodiment 1.
Embodiment 5
[0148] Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described. An
air conditioning system in accordance with the present embodiment
is different from the air conditioning system (1) of Embodiment 1
in configuration of the first humidity controller. Specifically,
the air conditioning system of the present embodiment includes a
first humidity controller (300) shown in FIG. 6, the second
humidity controller (20) shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the first and
second air conditioners (30, 40) shown in FIG. 1, and the interlock
control means (3) shown in FIG. 1.
[0149] The first humidity controller (300) supplies humidified air
to the perimeter zone and includes, similarly to the humidity
controller (10) in Embodiment 1, the input means and the first
humidification operation control means.
[0150] As shown in FIG. 6, the first humidity controller (300)
includes a casing (310) in a hollowed cuboid form. An air discharge
side passage (315) and an air supply side passage (316) partition
the inside of the casing (310). In the casing (310), an air
discharge port (312) and an outdoor air suction port (311) are
formed adjacently to each other in one of a pair of opposite side
faces while an indoor air suction port (313) and an air supply port
(314) are formed adjacently to each other in the other side face.
The indoor air suction port (313) and the air discharge port (312)
are connected to the inlet end and the outlet end of the air
discharge side passage (315), respectively. On the other hand, the
outdoor air suction port (311) and the air supply port (314) are
connected to the inlet end and the outlet end of the air supply
side passage (316), respectively.
[0151] Inside the casing (310), a disc-shaped adsorption element
(320) is provided as a humidity control member. The adsorption
element (320) is in a honeycomb form capable of allowing air to
pass therethrough in the thickness direction. When the air passes
therethrough, it allows the air to be in contact with an adsorbent,
such as zeolite or the like. The adsorption element (320) is
arranged across both the air discharge side passage (315) and the
air supply side passage (316) and is rotated about the axis
thereof.
[0152] In the air discharge side passage (315) in the casing (310),
a first heat exchanger (321) as a heater is arranged upstream of
the adsorption element (320) while an air discharge fan (325) is
arranged downstream thereof. In the air supply side passage (316)
in the casing (310), a second heat exchanger (322) as a heater is
arranged upstream of the adsorption element (320) while an air
supply fan (326) is arranged downstream thereof. The first heat
exchanger (321) and the second heat exchanger (322) are so composed
to perform heat exchange between air passing therethrough and hot
water.
[0153] The first humidity controller (300) is switched by the
interlock control means (3) among a humidification saving
operation, a dehumidification operation, and a heating
operation.
[0154] The humidification saving operation is an operation in which
the amount of humidified air supplied indoors is reduced by
controlling the degree of humidification by the second heat
exchanger (322).
[0155] The dehumidification operation is an operation in which the
second heat exchanger (322) dehumidifies the outdoor air and
supplies it indoors while the first heat exchanger (321) releases
moisture to the indoor air and discharges it outdoors.
[0156] The heating operation is an operation in which the
adsorption element (320) is stopped rotating with the second heat
exchanger (322) operated.
[0157] The second humidity controller (20) and the first and second
air conditioners (30, 40) are so composed to perform the respective
operations set by the user even upon input of the dew condensation
occurrence information.
[0158] The interlock control means (3) allows, upon input of the
dew condensation occurrence information, the first humidity
controller (200) to perform the dew removal operation while
allowing the second humidity controller (20) and the first and
second air conditioners (30, 40) to perform the respective
operations set by the user.
[0159] --Driving Operation--
[0160] Driving operations of the humidity controller will be
described. This humidity controller performs the dehumidification
operation and the humidification operation by switching.
[0161] <Dehumidification Operation>
[0162] During the dehumidification operation, the first heat
exchanger (321) receives hot water while the second heat exchanger
(32) is stopped. In the dehumidification operation, an adsorption
operation by a part of the adsorption element (320) which travels
across the air supply side passage (316) is performed in parallel
to a regeneration operation by a part thereof which travels across
the air discharge side passage (315).
[0163] When the air supply fan (326) is operated, the outdoor air
is taken into the air supply side passage (316) from the outdoor
air suction port (311). The thus taken outdoor air passes through
the non-operated second heat exchanger (322) and is then sent to
the adsorption element (320). In the adsorption element (320),
moisture in the passing outdoor air is adsorbed to the adsorbent.
The outdoor air thus dehumidified in the adsorption element (320)
is supplied indoors through the air supply port (314).
[0164] When the air discharge fan (325) is operated, the indoor air
is taken into the air discharge side passage (315) from the indoor
air suction port (313). The thus taken indoor air is heated when
passing through the first heat exchanger (321) and is then sent to
the adsorption element (320). A part of the adsorption element
(320) which absorbs moisture during the time when it travels across
the air supply side passage (316) is moved to the air discharge
side passage (315). The adsorbent carried at the part of the
adsorption element (320) is heated by the indoor air supplied from
the first heat exchanger (321) so that moisture is desorbed from
the adsorbent. The indoor air to which the moisture desorbed from
the adsorbent is provided is discharged outdoors through the air
discharge port (312). A part of the adsorption element (320) which
is regenerated during the time when it travels across the air
discharge side passage (315) is moved to the air supply side
passage (316).
[0165] <Humidification Operation>
[0166] During the humidification operation, the second heat
exchanger (322) receives hot water while the first heat exchanger
(321) is stopped. In the humidification operation, an adsorption
operation by a part of the adsorption element (320) which travels
across the air discharge side passage (315) is performed in
parallel to a regeneration operation by a part thereof which
travels across the air supply side passage (316).
[0167] When the air discharge fan (325) is operated, the indoor air
is taken into the air discharge side passage (315) from the indoor
air suction port (313). The thus taken indoor air passes through
the non-operated first heat exchanger (321) and is then sent to the
adsorption element (320). In the adsorption element (320), moisture
in the passing indoor air is adsorbed to the adsorbent. The indoor
air of which the moisture is removed in the adsorption element
(320) is discharged outdoors through the air discharge port
(312).
[0168] When the air supply fan (326) is operated, the outdoor air
is taken into the air supply side passage (316) from the outdoor
air suction port (311). The thus taken outdoor air is heated when
passing through the second heat exchanger (322) and is then sent to
the adsorption element (320). A part of the adsorption element
(320) which absorbs moisture during the time when it travels across
the air discharge side passage (315) is moved to the air supply
side passage (316). The adsorbent carried at the part of the
adsorption element (320) is heated by the indoor air supplied from
the second heat exchanger (322) so that moisture is desorbed from
the adsorbent. The humidified indoor air to which the moisture
desorbed from the adsorbent is provided is supplied indoors through
the air supply port (314). A part of the adsorption element (320)
which is regenerated during the time when it travels across the air
supply side passage (316) is moved to the air discharge side
passage (315).
[0169] Control on dew removal will be described next.
[0170] The interlock control means of the air conditioning system
of the present embodiment receives, upon input of the dew
condensation occurrence information, the information to allow the
first humidity controller (300) to operate the dew removal
operation and to allow the second humidity controller (20) and the
first and second air conditioners (30, 40) to continue the
humidification operation.
[0171] The mode for the dew removal operation is determined on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor temperature. For example, in the case where the outdoor air
is low temperature and low humidity, the interlock control means
(3) selects the heating operation mode as the mode for the dew
removal operation. Specifically, the rotation of the adsorption
element (320) is stopped with the second heat exchanger (322)
operated.
[0172] Further, in the case where the outdoor air is low
temperature and high humidity or high temperature and high
humidity, the interlock control means (3) selects the
dehumidification operation mode as the mode for the dew removal
operation. Specifically, the above-described dehumidification
operation is performed.
[0173] As well, in the case where the outdoor air is high
temperature and low humidity, the interlock control means (3)
selects the humidification saving operation mode as the mode for
the dew removal operation. Specifically, the degree of
humidification by the second heat exchanger (322) is controlled to
reduce the amount of the humidified air supplied indoors.
Effects of Embodiment 5
[0174] The air conditioning system in accordance with the present
embodiment exhibits substantially the same effects as the air
conditioning system in accordance with Embodiment 1.
Embodiment 6
[0175] Embodiment 6 of the present invention will be described. An
air conditioning system in accordance with the present embodiment
is different from the air conditioning system (1) of Embodiment 1
in the configuration of the first humidity controller.
Specifically, the air conditioning system of the present embodiment
includes a first humidity controller (400) shown in FIG. 7, the
second humidity controller (20) shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the
first and second air conditioners (30, 40) shown in FIG. 1, and the
interlock control means (3) shown in FIG. 1.
[0176] The first humidity controller (400) supplies humidified air
to the perimeter zone and includes, similarly to the first humidity
controller (10) of Embodiment 1, the input means and the first
humidification operation control means.
[0177] As shown in FIG. 7, the first humidity controller (400)
includes a casing in a hollowed cuboid form in which no air
discharge side passage is formed dislike the humidity controllers
(200, 250, 300) in Embodiments 3 to 5. In the casing, an outdoor
air suction port (411) is formed in one of a pair of opposite side
faces while an air supply port (412) is formed in the other side
face.
[0178] Inside the casing, a heating heat exchanger (415) is
provided. A humidification element (414) is arranged upstream of
the heating heat exchanger (415) while an air supply fan (416) is
arranged downstream thereof.
[0179] The first humidity controller (400) is switched by the
interlock control means (3) between a humidification saving
operation and a heating operation.
[0180] The humidification saving operation is an operation in which
the degree of humidification by the humidification element (414) is
controlled by stopping the heating heat exchanger (415) to reduce
the amount of humidified air supplied indoors.
[0181] The heating operation is an operation in which the heating
heat exchanger (415) is operated with the humidification element
(414) stopped operating.
[0182] The second humidity controller (20) and the first and second
air conditioners (30, 40) are so composed to perform the respective
operations set by the user even upon input of the dew condensation
occurrence information.
[0183] The interlock control means (3) allows, upon input of the
dew condensation occurrence information, the first humidity
controller (400) to perform the dew removal operation while
allowing the second humidity controller (20) and the first and
second air conditioners (30, 40) to perform the respective
operations set by the user.
[0184] --Driving Operation--
[0185] A humidification operation by the humidity controller will
be described.
[0186] When the air supply fan (416) is operated, the outdoor air
is taken in from the outdoor air suction port (411). The thus taken
outdoor air passes through the heating heat exchanger (415) and
then is sent to the humidification element (414). The outdoor air
humidified in the humidification element (414) is supplied indoors
through the air supply port (412)
[0187] Control on dew removal will be described next.
[0188] The interlock control mean of the air conditioning system of
the present embodiment receives, upon input of the dew condensation
occurrence information through user's manipulation, receives the
information to allow the first humidity controller (400) to operate
the dew removal operation and to allow the second humidity
controller (20) to continue the humidification operation.
[0189] The mode for the dew removal operation is determined on the
basis of the outdoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the
indoor temperature. For example, in the case where the outdoor air
is low temperature and low humidity, the interlock control means
(3) selects the heating operation mode as the mode for the dew
removal operation. Specifically, the heating heat exchanger (415)
is operated with the humidification element (414) stopped
operating.
[0190] As well, in the case where the outdoor air is high
temperature and low humidity, the interlock control means (3)
selects the humidification saving operation mode as the mode for
the dew removal operation. Specifically, the degree of
humidification by the humidification element (414) is controlled by
stopping the heating heat exchanger (415) to reduce the amount of
humidified air supplied indoors.
Effects of Embodiment 6
[0191] The air conditioning system in accordance with the present
embodiment exhibits substantially the same effects as the air
conditioning system in accordance with Embodiment 1.
Other Embodiments
[0192] The first and second humidity controllers (10, 20) of
Embodiments 1 and 2 may have any of the following configurations.
Herein, modified examples of the first and second humidity
controllers (10, 20) will be described.
Modified Example 1
[0193] As shown in FIG. 8, each of first and second humidity
controllers (10, 20) in Modified Example 1 includes a refrigerant
circuit (100) and two adsorption elements (111, 112). Each
refrigerant circuit (100) is a closed circuit in which the
compressor (100), the condenser (102), the expansion valve (103),
and the evaporator (104) are connected in this order. When the
refrigerant is circulated in each refrigerant circuit (100), a
vapor compression refrigeration cycle is performed. Each
refrigerant cycle (100) serves as heat source means. Each first
adsorption element (111) and each second adsorption element (112)
include an adsorbent, such as zeolite or the like to serve as an
adsorption member. Multiple air passages are formed in each
adsorption element (111, 112) so that air passing therethrough is
in contact with the adsorbent.
[0194] The humidity controllers (10, 20) repeat the first operation
and the second operation. As shown in FIG. 8(A), the humidity
controllers (10, 20) in the first operation regenerate the
adsorbent by supplying air heated in the condenser (102) to the
first adsorption element (111) while cooling in the evaporator
(104) air of which moisture is removed to the second adsorption
element (112). As well, as shown in FIG. 8(B), the humidity
controllers (10, 20) in the second operation regenerate the
adsorbent by supplying air heated in the condenser (102) to the
second adsorption element (112) while cooling by the evaporator
(104) air of which moisture is removed to the first adsorption
element (111). The humidity controllers (10, 20) are switched
between a dehumidification operation and a humidification
operation, wherein the dehumidification operation is an operation
in which air dehumidified when passing through the adsorption
elements (111, 112) is supplied indoors, and the humidification
operation is an operation in which air humidified when passing
through the adsorption elements (111, 112) is supplied indoors.
Modified Example 2
[0195] As shown in FIG. 9, each of the humidification controllers
(10, 20) in Modified Example 2 includes a humidity control unit
(150). Each humidity control unit (150) includes a Peltier element
(153) and pairs of adsorption fins (151, 152). The adsorption fins
(151, 152) include heat sinks of which surfaces carry an adsorbent,
such as zeolite or the like. The adsorption fins (151, 152) serve
as an adsorption member. Each Peltier element (153) includes one
face to which the first adsorption fins (151) are joined and
another face to which the second adsorption fins (152) are joined.
When direct current flows in the Peltier element (153), those (151
or 152) of the paired adsorption fins serve as the heat adsorption
member while the others serve as a heat radiation member. The
Peltier element (153) serves as heat source means.
[0196] The humidity controllers (10, 20) repeat the first operation
and the second operation. The humidity control unit (150) in the
first operation humidifies air by regenerating the adsorbent of the
first adsorption fins (151) serving as the heat radiating member
while dehumidifying air by allowing the adsorbent of the second
adsorption fins (152) serving as the heat adsorption member to
adsorb moisture. The humidity control unit (150) in the second
operation humidifies air by regenerating the adsorbent of the
second adsorption fins (152) serving as the heat radiating member
while dehumidifying air by allowing the adsorbent of the first
adsorption fins (151) serving as the heat adsorption member to
adsorb moisture. The humidity controllers (10, 20) perform a
dehumidification operation and a humidification operation by
switching, wherein the dehumidification operation is an operation
in which air dehumidified when passing through each humidity
control unit (150) is supplied indoors, and the humidification
operation is an operation in which air humidified when passing
through each humidity control unit (150) is supplied indoors.
[0197] Further, the air conditioning systems of Embodiments 3 to 6
may have any of the following configurations.
[0198] The first humidity controller (200, 250, 300, 400) may
perform the operation set by the user even upon input of the dew
condensation occurrence information while the first air conditioner
(30) performs the dew removal operation.
[0199] Alternatively, the first humidity controller (200, 250, 300,
400) and the first air conditioner (30) may perform the dew removal
operation.
[0200] It should be noted that the above embodiments are mere
essentially preferable examples and do not intend to limit the
scopes of the present invention, applicable subjects, and use.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0201] As described above, the present invention is useful for air
conditioning systems and particularly for dew removal.
* * * * *