U.S. patent application number 17/531171 was filed with the patent office on 2022-03-10 for humidity control unit and humidity control system.
This patent application is currently assigned to DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.. Invention is credited to Takeshi ARAKAWA, Yu JIANG, Eisaku OKUBO, Takayuki SUNAYAMA, Takashi TAKAHASHI.
Application Number | 20220074608 17/531171 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006040397 |
Filed Date | 2022-03-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220074608 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ARAKAWA; Takeshi ; et
al. |
March 10, 2022 |
HUMIDITY CONTROL UNIT AND HUMIDITY CONTROL SYSTEM
Abstract
The humidity control unit includes: an air passage through which
a first space which is a target space and a second space
communicate with each other; a moisture absorber arranged in the
air passage and configured to absorb moisture from air and desorb
the moisture to the air; a heat source arranged in the air passage
and configured to at least cool or heat the moisture absorber; an
air transport mechanism configured to allow the air in the air
passage to flow in reverse directions; and a controller configured
to control the heat source and the air transport mechanism.
Inventors: |
ARAKAWA; Takeshi; (Osaka,
JP) ; JIANG; Yu; (Osaka, JP) ; SUNAYAMA;
Takayuki; (Osaka, JP) ; OKUBO; Eisaku; (Osaka,
JP) ; TAKAHASHI; Takashi; (Osaka, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD. |
Osaka |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
1000006040397 |
Appl. No.: |
17/531171 |
Filed: |
November 19, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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PCT/JP2020/019798 |
May 19, 2020 |
|
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17531171 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 11/65 20180101;
F24F 7/013 20130101; F24F 3/14 20130101; F24F 11/79 20180101 |
International
Class: |
F24F 3/14 20060101
F24F003/14; F24F 7/013 20060101 F24F007/013; F24F 11/65 20060101
F24F011/65 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 10, 2019 |
JP |
2019-107782 |
Claims
1. A humidity control unit, comprising: an air passage through
which a first space which is a target space and a second space
communicate with each other; a moisture absorber arranged in the
air passage and configured to absorb moisture from air and desorb
the moisture to the air; a heat source arranged in the air passage
and configured to at least cool or heat the moisture absorber; an
air transport mechanism configured to allow the air in the air
passage to flow in reverse directions; and a controller configured
to control the heat source and the air transport mechanism.
2. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the controller
performs a first action of allowing the heat source to cool the
moisture absorber and allowing the air transport mechanism to
transport the air in the second space to the first space.
3. The humidity control unit of claim 2, wherein the controller
alternately performs the first action, and a second action of
allowing the heat source to heat the moisture absorber and allowing
the air transport mechanism to transport the air in the first space
to the second space.
4. The humidity control unit of claim 3, wherein the controller
stops the air transport mechanism for a predetermined period after
the end of the first action and before the start of the second
action.
5. The humidity control unit of claim 3, wherein the controller
stops the air transport mechanism for a predetermined period after
the end of the second action and before the start of the first
action.
6. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the controller
performs a third action of allowing the heat source to heat the
moisture absorber and allowing the air transport mechanism to
transport the air in the second space to the first space.
7. The humidity control unit of claim 6, wherein the controller
alternately performs the third action, and a fourth action of
allowing the heat source to cool the moisture absorber and allowing
the air transport mechanism to transport the air in the first space
to the second space.
8. The humidity control unit of claim 7, wherein the controller
stops the air transport mechanism for a predetermined period after
the end of the third action and before the start of the fourth
action.
9. The humidity control unit of claim 7, wherein the controller
stops the air transport mechanism for a predetermined period after
the end of the fourth action and before the start of the third
action.
10. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the first space
is an indoor space, and the second space is an outdoor space.
11. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the heat source
includes a heat exchange unit in which a heating medium flows.
12. The humidity control unit of claim 11, wherein the heat
exchange unit includes: a first heat exchanger arranged closer to
the first space than the moisture absorber and configured to cool
and heat the air; and a second heat exchanger arranged closer to
the second space than the moisture absorber and configured to cool
and heat the air.
13. The humidity control unit of claim 11, wherein the heat
exchange unit is an adsorption heat exchanger having an adsorbent
for adsorbing and desorbing water and serving as the moisture
absorber.
14. The humidity control unit of claim 11, further comprising: a
refrigerant circuit for circulating a refrigerant as the heating
medium to perform a refrigeration cycle.
15. The humidity control unit of claim 14, further comprising: an
outdoor unit having a compressor and an outdoor heat exchanger that
are connected to the refrigerant circuit.
16. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the air transport
mechanism is a fan capable of rotating in a forward direction and a
reverse direction.
17. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the air transport
mechanism includes a first fan for sending the air to the first
space and a second fan for sending the air to the second space.
18. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the air transport
mechanism includes: at least one fan; and a flow path switching
mechanism configured to switch a flow path of the air in the air
passage between a first state and a second state, and the fan
allows the air to flow from the second space to the first space in
the air passage in the first state, and allows the air to flow from
the first space to the second space in the air passage in the
second state.
19. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein a center of an
opening to the first space in the air passage and a center of an
opening to the second space in the air passage substantially
coincide with each other in a direction of the air flowing in the
air passage.
20. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the air passage
is provided to penetrate a wall that is a partition between the
first space and the second space.
21. The humidity control unit of claim 1, wherein the air passage
is arranged in a window or a window frame between an indoor space
as the first space and an outdoor space as the second space.
22. The humidity control unit of claim 1, further comprising: a
filter arranged in the air passage to be closer to the outdoor
space as the second space than the moisture absorber and the heat
source, the filter being configured such that dust adhering to the
filter is removed by the air flowing from the indoor space as the
first space to the outdoor space.
23. A humidity control system comprising a plurality of humidity
control units configured to control humidity of a target space,
wherein each of the plurality of humidity control units is the
humidity control unit of claim 1.
24. The humidity control system of claim 23, further comprising: an
interlock control unit configured to control the plurality of
humidity control units in a coordinated manner.
25. The humidity control system of claim 24, wherein the plurality
of humidity control units include at least one first humidity
control unit and at least one second humidity control unit, the
first humidity control unit and the second humidity control unit
alternately perform: a first action of allowing the heat source to
cool the moisture absorber and allowing the air transport mechanism
to transport the air in the second space to the first space; and a
second action of allowing the heat source to heat the moisture
absorber and allowing the air transport mechanism to transport the
air in the first space to the second space, and the interlock
control unit controls the first humidity control unit and the
second humidity control unit so that the second humidity control
unit performs the second action when the first humidity control
unit performs the first action, and the second humidity control
unit performs the first action when the first humidity control unit
performs the second action.
26. The humidity control system of claim 25, wherein at least one
of the first humidity control unit or the second humidity control
unit is configured to stop the air transport mechanism for a
predetermined period between the first action and the second
action, and the interlock control unit controls the first humidity
control unit and the second humidity control unit so that one of
the first humidity control unit or the second humidity control unit
performs the first or second action while the other of the first
humidity control unit or the second humidity control unit is
stopped.
27. The humidity control system of claim 25, wherein the first
humidity control unit and the second humidity control unit
alternately perform: a third action of allowing the heat source to
heat the moisture absorber and allowing the air transport mechanism
to transport the air in the second space to the first space; and a
fourth action of allowing the heat source to cool the moisture
absorber and allowing the air transport mechanism to transport the
air in the first space to the second space, and the interlock
control unit controls the first humidity control unit and the
second humidity control unit so that the second humidity control
unit performs the fourth action when the first humidity control
unit performs the third action, and the second humidity control
unit performs the third action when the first humidity control unit
performs the fourth action.
28. The humidity control system of claim 27, wherein at least one
of the first humidity control unit or the second humidity control
unit is configured to stop the air transport mechanism for a
predetermined period between the third action and the fourth
action, and the interlock control unit controls the first humidity
control unit and the second humidity control unit so that one of
the first humidity control unit or the second humidity control unit
performs the third or fourth action while the other of the first
humidity control unit or the second humidity control unit is
stopped.
29. The humidity control system of claim 24, further comprising: a
first determination unit configured to determine a degree of
pollution of the air in the second space, wherein when at least a
condition that the first determination unit determines that the
degree of pollution of the air exceeds a predetermined value is
met, the interlock control unit controls the plurality of humidity
control units so that the total amount of the air supplied by the
humidity control units exceeds the total amount of air discharged
by the humidity control units.
30. The humidity control system of claim 29, further comprising: an
entry detector configured to detect the entry of the air from the
second space to the first space, wherein when at least a condition
that the first determination unit determines that the degree of
pollution of the air exceeds a predetermined value and a condition
that the entry detector detects the entry of the air are met, the
interlock control unit controls the plurality of humidity control
units so that the total amount of the air supplied by the humidity
control units exceeds the total amount of air discharged by the
humidity control units.
31. The humidity control system of claim 24, further comprising: a
second determination unit configured to determine a degree of
pollution of the air in the first space, wherein when at least a
condition that the second determination unit determines that the
degree of pollution of the air exceeds a predetermined value is
met, the interlock control unit controls the plurality of humidity
control units so that the total amount of the air discharged by the
humidity control units exceeds the total amount of the air supplied
by the humidity control units.
32. The humidity control system of claim 24, further comprising: an
air volume detector configured to detect the amount of air supplied
or discharged by a ventilator installed in the first space, wherein
the interlock control unit controls the plurality of humidity
control units based on the amount of the air supplied or discharged
detected by the air volume detector so that the total amount of the
air supplied to the first space and the total amount of the air
discharged from the first space become substantially identical to
each other.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a humidity control unit
and a humidity control system.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] A humidity control apparatus of Patent Document 1 includes
two adsorption heat exchangers. The humidity control apparatus
dehumidifies outdoor air with one of the adsorption heat exchangers
and supplies the dehumidified outdoor air into a room and
regenerates an adsorbent of the other adsorption heat exchanger
with room air, in parallel.
CITATION LIST
Patent Document
[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4569150
SUMMARY
[0004] A first aspect is directed to a humidity control unit
including: an air passage (12) through which a first space (S1)
which is a target space and a second space (S2) communicate with
each other; a moisture absorber (30, 32) arranged in the air
passage (12) and configured to absorb moisture from air and desorb
the moisture to the air; a heat source (21, 22, 32) arranged in the
air passage (12) and configured to at least cool or heat the
moisture absorber (30, 32); an air transport mechanism (M)
configured to allow the air in the air passage (12) to flow in
reverse directions; and a controller (C) configured to control the
heat source (21, 22, 32) and the air transport mechanism (M).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a house to which a
humidity control system of an embodiment is applied.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a humidity
control unit of the embodiment, illustrating the humidity control
unit during a first action or a third action.
[0007] FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidity
control unit of the embodiment, illustrating the humidity control
unit during a second action or a fourth action.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a timing chart of a dehumidifying operation of the
humidity control system of the embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 5A is a schematic plan view of a house to which the
humidity control system of the embodiment is applied, illustrating
the flow of air during the first or third action. FIG. 5B is a
schematic plan view of a house to which the humidity control system
of the embodiment is applied, illustrating the flow of air during
the second or fourth action.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a timing chart of a humidifying operation of the
humidity control system of the embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 7 is a timing chart of a dehumidifying operation of a
humidity control system of a first variation.
[0012] FIG. 8 is a timing chart of a humidifying operation of the
humidity control system of the first variation.
[0013] FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram of a humidity
control unit of a third variation.
[0014] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a humidity
control unit of a fifth variation.
[0015] FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a moisture
absorption unit of a sixth variation.
[0016] FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram of a moisture
absorption unit of a seventh variation.
[0017] FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of a moisture
absorption unit of an eighth variation.
[0018] FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram of a moisture
absorption unit of a ninth variation.
[0019] FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram of a humidity
control unit of a tenth variation, illustrating the humidity
control unit during the first or third action.
[0020] FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidity
control unit of the tenth variation, illustrating the humidity
control unit during the second or fourth action.
[0021] FIG. 17 is a schematic configuration diagram of a humidity
control unit of an eleventh variation, illustrating the humidity
control unit during the first or third action.
[0022] FIG. 18 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidity
control unit of the eleventh variation, illustrating the humidity
control unit during the third or fourth action.
[0023] FIG. 19 is a schematic configuration diagram of a humidity
control unit of a twelfth variation, illustrating the humidity
control unit during the first or third action.
[0024] FIG. 20 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidity
control unit of the twelfth variation, illustrating the humidity
control unit during the second or fourth action.
[0025] FIG. 21 is a schematic plan view illustrating an enlarged
part of a house to which a humidity control unit of a thirteenth
variation is applied.
[0026] FIG. 22 is a schematic plan view of a house to which a
humidity control system of a fourteenth variation is applied.
[0027] FIG. 23 is a schematic plan view of a house to which a
humidity control system of a sixteenth variation is applied.
[0028] FIG. 24 is a schematic plan view of a house to which a
humidity control system of a nineteenth variation is applied.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0029] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described
below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiment is
merely an exemplary one in nature, and is not intended to limit the
scope, applications, or use of the invention.
Embodiment
[0030] A humidity control system (S) of an embodiment controls
humidity of a target space. The humidity control system (S) also
serves as a ventilation system for ventilating the target
space.
[0031] <General Configuration of Humidity Control System>
[0032] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the humidity control system (S) of
the present embodiment is applied to a house. The humidity control
system (S) has six humidity control units (10) and an interlock
control unit (C). The number of humidity control units (10) is not
limited to six, but is preferably two or more. The interlock
control unit (C) controls the six humidity control units (10) in a
coordinated manner.
[0033] The six humidity control units (10) of this embodiment are
classified into three first humidity control units (10A) and three
second humidity control units (10B). The three first humidity
control units (10A) basically perform the same action. The three
second humidity control units (10B) basically perform the same
action. The action performed by the first humidity control units
(10A) basically differs from that performed by the second humidity
control units (10B).
[0034] <General Configuration of Humidity Control Unit>
[0035] As illustrated in FIG. 2, each of the humidity control units
(10) includes a casing (11). The casing (11) is attached to the
wall (W) of the house to penetrate the wall (W). The casing (11) is
formed in a horizontally oriented tubular shape. The casing (11)
may have a cylindrical shape or a rectangular cylindrical shape.
The casing (11) extends linearly to be perpendicular to the wall
(W).
[0036] An air passage (12) is formed inside the casing (11). The
air passage (12) makes a first space (S1) and a second space (S2)
communicate with each other. The first space (S1) is a target space
for which humidity control and ventilation are performed. The first
space (S1) is an indoor space. The second space (S2) is a space
different from the first space (S1). Specifically, the second space
(S2) is an outdoor space.
[0037] The plurality of humidity control units (10) may work for a
single indoor space (S1) or different indoor spaces (S1) of the
house.
[0038] The air passage (12) has an indoor air port (13) that opens
in the first space (S1). The air passage (12) has an outdoor air
port (14) that opens in the second space (S2). The center (axis) of
the indoor air port (13) and the center (axis) of the outdoor air
port (14) substantially coincide with each other in the direction
of air flow. This structure can reduce the flow path resistance of
the air passage (12).
[0039] Each of the humidity control units (10) includes a first
heat exchanger (21), a moisture absorption unit (30), a second heat
exchanger (22), and a reversible fan (40). The first heat exchanger
(21), the moisture absorption unit (30), the second heat exchanger
(22), and the reversible fan (40) are arranged in the air passage
(12) in this order from the outdoor space (S2) toward the indoor
space (S1). The reversible fan (40) may be arranged closer to the
outdoor space (S2) than the first heat exchanger (21).
[0040] The first heat exchanger (21) and the second heat exchanger
(22) are included in a heat source device (20). The first heat
exchanger (21) and the second heat exchanger (22) are heat sources
that cool and heat the air. The first heat exchanger (21) and the
second heat exchanger (22) are, for example, fin-and-tube heat
exchangers.
[0041] The moisture absorption unit (30) is a moisture absorber
that absorbs moisture from the air and desorbs the moisture to the
air. In other words, the moisture absorption unit (30) takes the
moisture from the air and releases the moisture to the air. The
moisture absorption unit (30) of the present embodiment is an
adsorption unit having an adsorbent. The moisture absorption unit
(30) includes a substrate having a plurality of holes through which
the air flows and an adsorbent supported on a surface of the
substrate. Any material that adsorbs or sorbs the moisture can be
used as the adsorbent.
[0042] The reversible fan (40) constitutes an air transport
mechanism (M) for bidirectionally or reversibly transporting the
air in the air passage (12). Details will be described later.
[0043] <Heat Source Device>
[0044] As illustrated in FIG. 2, each of the humidity control units
(10) includes a heat source device (20) that cools and heats the
air. The heat source device (20) includes a first heat exchanger
(21), a second heat exchanger (22), and an outdoor unit (20a). The
outdoor unit (20a) includes a compressor (23), an outdoor heat
exchanger (24), and an outdoor fan (25). The outdoor unit (20a),
the first heat exchanger (21), and the second heat exchanger (22)
are connected together via refrigerant pipes. Thus, the heat source
device (20) constitutes a refrigerant circuit (R) through which a
refrigerant circulates. The compressor (23), the first heat
exchanger (21), the second heat exchanger (22), and the outdoor
heat exchanger (24) are connected to the refrigerant circuit (R).
The refrigerant circuit (R) is connected to valves such as a
four-way switching valve, an on-off valve, and an expansion valve,
which are flow path switching mechanisms (not shown). Control of
these components allows the refrigerant to circulate in the
refrigerant circuit (R), thereby performing a refrigeration
cycle.
[0045] <Details of Reversible Fan>
[0046] The reversible fan (40) of the present embodiment is
constituted of an axial fan. The reversible fan (40) includes a
motor (41), a shaft (42) rotationally driven by the motor (41), and
an impeller (43) connected to the shaft (42). The motor (41)
rotationally drives the shaft (42) in a forward direction and a
reverse direction. The impeller (43) has substantially the same
shape in front view and rear view in an axial direction.
[0047] When the motor (41) drives the drive shaft (42) to rotate in
the forward direction, the impeller (43) rotates in a first
rotation direction (see FIG. 2). This rotation causes the outdoor
air (OA) in the outdoor space (S2) to be sucked into the air
passage (12). The sucked outdoor air (OA) is supplied to the indoor
space (S1) as supply air (SA). When the motor (41) drives the drive
shaft (42) to rotate in the reverse direction, the impeller (43)
rotates in a second rotation direction (see FIG. 3). This rotation
causes the room air (RA) in the indoor space (S1) to be sucked into
the air passage (12). The sucked room air (RA) is discharged to the
outdoor space (S2) as exhaust air (EA).
[0048] <Interlock Control Unit>
[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the interlock control unit (C) is
a controller for controlling the plurality of humidity control
units (10). The interlock control unit (C) includes a processor,
e.g., a microcontroller, and a memory device, e.g., a semiconductor
memory, that stores software for operating the processor. The
interlock control unit (C) of the present embodiment also serves as
a controller for controlling the heat source device (20) and air
transport mechanism (M) of each of the humidity control units
(10).
[0050] The interlock control unit (C) is connected to each of the
humidity control units (10) via a wire or wirelessly. The interlock
control unit (C) transmits and receives a signal, such as a control
signal, to and from each of the humidity control units (10). The
interlock control unit (C) controls the heat source device (20) and
reversible fan (40) of each of the humidity control units (10).
[0051] --Operation--
[0052] How the humidity control system (S) operates will be
described below. The humidity control system (S) switches between a
dehumidifying operation and a humidifying operation. The
dehumidifying operation is performed under the condition that the
outdoor air has high temperature and high humidity, e.g., in
summer. The humidifying operation is performed under the condition
that the outdoor air has low temperature and low humidity, e.g., in
winter.
[0053] <Dehumidifying Operation>
[0054] For the dehumidifying operation, the humidity control units
(10) perform a first action and a second action. The first and
second actions are alternately repeated. The interlock control unit
(C) controls the switching between these actions.
[0055] <First Action>
[0056] The first action shown in FIG. 2 is an action of allowing
the first heat exchanger (21) to cool the moisture absorption unit
(30) and allowing the reversible fan (40) to transport the air from
the outdoor space (S2) to the indoor space (S1). The heat source
device (20) performs a refrigeration cycle, i.e., a first
refrigeration cycle, in which the first heat exchanger (21) serves
as an evaporator, the second heat exchanger (22) is stopped, and
the outdoor heat exchanger (24) serves as a radiator
(condenser).
[0057] During the first action, the first heat exchanger (21) cools
the outdoor air (OA) taken into the air passage (12). The cooled
air flows through the moisture absorption unit (30). The adsorbent
of the moisture absorption unit (30) adsorbs moisture in the air.
The air thus cooled and dehumidified is supplied to the indoor
space (S1) as the supply air (SA).
[0058] <Second Action>
[0059] The second action shown in FIG. 3 is an action of allowing
the second heat exchanger (22) to heat the moisture absorption unit
(30) and allowing the reversible fan (40) to transport the air from
the indoor space (S1) to the outdoor space (S2). Specifically, the
heat source device (20) performs a refrigeration cycle, i.e., a
second refrigeration cycle, in which the second heat exchanger (22)
serves as a radiator (condenser), the first heat exchanger (21) is
stopped, and the outdoor heat exchanger (24) serves as an
evaporator.
[0060] During the second action, the second heat exchanger (22)
heats the room air (RA) taken into the air passage (12). The heated
air flows through the moisture absorption unit (30). The moisture
absorption unit (30) regenerates the adsorbent using the air. The
air used to regenerate the adsorbent is discharged to the outdoor
space (S2) as the exhaust air (EA).
[0061] <Interlock Control for Dehumidifying Operation>
[0062] The interlock control for the dehumidifying operation will
be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. For
the dehumidifying operation, the first humidity control units (10A)
and the second humidity control units (10B) are controlled in
conjunction with each other. In the present embodiment, each of the
humidity control units (10) repeats the first action, first stop
control, the second action, and second stop control in this order.
The first action is performed for T1, the second action for T2, the
first stop control for Tb1, and the second stop control for Tb2.
For example, T1 and T2 are set to several tens of seconds, and Tb1
and Tb2 to several seconds. In this example, T1 and T2 are equal,
and Tb1 and Tb2 are equal.
[0063] In this example, when the first humidity control units (10A)
perform the first action, the second humidity control units (10B)
perform the second action in parallel. When the first humidity
control units (10A) perform the second action, the second humidity
control units (10B) perform the first action in parallel. When the
first humidity control units (10A) perform the first stop control,
the second humidity control units (10B) perform the second stop
control in parallel. When the first humidity control units (10A)
perform the second stop control, the second humidity control units
(10B) perform the first stop control in parallel.
[0064] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5A, when the three first
humidity control units (10A) perform the first action in the
dehumidifying operation, the remaining three second humidity
control units (10B) perform the second action. Each of the first
humidity control units (10A) supplies the air dehumidified by the
moisture absorption unit (30) to the indoor space (S1). Each of the
second humidity control units (10B) discharges the air used to
regenerate the adsorbent of the moisture absorption unit (30) to
the outdoor space (S2). Thus, the indoor space (S1) is ventilated
and dehumidified in parallel.
[0065] When the first humidity control units (10A) finish the first
action, the first humidity control units (10A) perform the first
stop control. During the first stop control by the first humidity
control units (10A), the reversible fans (40) of the first humidity
control units (10A) are stopped. When the second humidity control
units (10B) finish the second action, the second humidity control
units (10B) perform the second stop control. During the second stop
control by the second humidity control units (10B), the reversible
fans (40) of the second humidity control units (10B) are
stopped.
[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5B, when the three second
humidity control units (10B) perform the first action in the
dehumidifying operation, the remaining three first humidity control
units (10A) perform the second action. Each of the second humidity
control units (10B) supplies the air dehumidified by the moisture
absorption unit (30) to the indoor space (S1). Each of the first
humidity control units (10A) discharges the air used to regenerate
the adsorbent of the moisture absorption unit (30) to the outdoor
space (S2). Thus, the indoor space (S1) is ventilated and
dehumidified in parallel.
[0067] When the second humidity control units (10B) finish the
first action, the second humidity control units (10B) perform the
first stop control. During the first stop control by the second
humidity control units (10B), the reversible fans (40) of the
second humidity control units (10B) are stopped. When the first
humidity control units (10A) finish the second action, the first
humidity control units (10A) perform the second stop control.
During the second stop control by the first humidity control units
(10A), the reversible fans (40) of the first humidity control units
(10A) are stopped.
[0068] In this manner, the humidity control system (S) allows the
first humidity control units (10A) and the second humidity control
units (10B) to alternately perform the first action and the second
action so that the first and second actions do not coincide with
each other. This can continuously ventilate and dehumidify the
indoor space (S1).
[0069] In the dehumidifying operation, the reversible fans (40) are
stopped during the first stop control between the first and second
actions. If each of the humidity control units (10) performs the
second action immediately after the first action, low humidity air
supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the first action may be
discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the second action. In
contrast, stopping the reversible fans (40) for a period between
the first and second actions can disperse the low humidity air
supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the first action in the indoor
space (S1). This can keep the low humidity air supplied to the
indoor space (S1) in the first action from being discharged to the
outdoor space (S2) in the second action.
[0070] Likewise, in the dehumidifying operation, the reversible
fans (40) are stopped during the second stop control between the
second and first actions. If each of the humidity control units
(10) performs the first action immediately after the second action,
high humidity air discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the
second action may be supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the first
action. In contrast, stopping the reversible fans (40) for a period
between the second and first actions can disperse the high humidity
air discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the second action in
the outdoor space (S2). This can keep the high humidity air
discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the second action from
being supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the first action.
[0071] The compressor (23) may be stopped during the first stop
control and the second stop control.
[0072] <Humidifying Operation>
[0073] In the humidifying operation, each of the humidity control
units (10) performs a third action and a fourth action. The third
action and the fourth action are alternately repeated. The
interlock control unit (C) controls the switching between these
actions.
[0074] <Third Action>
[0075] The third action shown in FIG. 2 is an action of allowing
the first heat exchanger (21) to heat the moisture absorption unit
(30) and allowing the reversible fan (40) to transport the air from
the outdoor space (S2) to the indoor space (S1). The heat source
device (20) performs a refrigeration cycle, i.e., a third
refrigeration cycle, in which the first heat exchanger (21) serves
as a radiator (condenser), the second heat exchanger (22) is
stopped, and the outdoor heat exchanger (24) serves as an
evaporator.
[0076] During the third action, the first heat exchanger (21) heats
the outdoor air (OA) taken into the air passage (12). The heated
air flows through the moisture absorption unit (30). The moisture
absorption unit (30) releases the moisture in the adsorbent into
the air. The air thus heated and humidified is supplied to the
indoor space (S1) as the supply air (SA).
[0077] <Fourth Action>
[0078] The fourth action shown in FIG. 3 is an action of allowing
the second heat exchanger (22) to cool the moisture absorption unit
(30) and allowing the reversible fan (40) to transport the air from
the indoor space (S1) to the outdoor space (S2). Specifically, the
heat source device (20) performs a refrigeration cycle, i.e., a
fourth refrigeration cycle, in which the second heat exchanger (22)
serves as an evaporator, the first heat exchanger (21) is stopped,
and the outdoor heat exchanger (24) serves as a radiator
(condenser).
[0079] During the fourth action, the second heat exchanger (22)
cools the room air (RA) taken into the air passage (12). The cooled
air flows through the moisture absorption unit (30). The adsorbent
of the moisture absorption unit (30) adsorbs moisture in the air.
The air that has given the moisture to the adsorbent is discharged
to the outdoor space (S2) as the exhaust air (EA).
[0080] <Interlock Control for Humidifying Operation>
[0081] The interlock control for the humidifying operation will be
described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6. In
the humidifying operation, the first humidity control units (10A)
and the second humidity control units (10B) are controlled in
conjunction with each other. In the present embodiment, each of the
humidity control units (10) repeats the third action, third stop
control, fourth action, and fourth stop control in this order. The
third action is performed for T3, the fourth action for T4, the
third stop control for Tb3, and the fourth stop control for Tb4.
The third action is performed for T3, the fourth action for T4, the
third stop control for Tb3, and the fourth stop control for Tb4.
For example, T3 and T4 are set to several tens of seconds, and Tb3
and Tb4 to several seconds. In this example, T3 and T4 are equal,
and Tb3 and Tb4 are equal.
[0082] In this example, when the first humidity control units (10A)
perform the third action, the second humidity control units (10B)
perform the fourth action in parallel. When the first humidity
control units (10A) perform the fourth action, the second humidity
control units (10B) perform the third action in parallel. When the
first humidity control units (10A) perform the third stop control,
the second humidity control units (10B) perform the fourth stop
control in parallel. When the first humidity control units (10A)
perform the fourth stop control, the second humidity control units
(10B) perform the third stop control in parallel.
[0083] As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 6, when the three first
humidity control units (10A) perform the third action in the
humidifying operation, the remaining three second humidity control
units (10B) perform the fourth action. Each of the first humidity
control units (10A) supplies the air humidified by the moisture
absorption unit (30) to the indoor space (S1). Each of the second
humidity control units (10B) discharges the air that has given the
moisture to the adsorbent of the moisture absorption unit (30) to
the outdoor space (S2). This can ventilate and humidify the indoor
space (S1) in parallel.
[0084] When the first humidity control units (10A) finish the third
action, the first humidity control units (10A) perform the third
stop control. During the third stop control by the first humidity
control units (10A), the reversible fans (40) of the first humidity
control units (10A) are stopped. When the second humidity control
units (10B) finish the third action, the second humidity control
units (10B) perform the fourth stop control. During the fourth stop
control by the second humidity control units (10B), the reversible
fans (40) of the second humidity control units (10B) are
stopped.
[0085] As illustrated in FIGS. 5B and 6, when the three second
humidity control units (10B) perform the third action in the
humidifying operation, the remaining three first humidity control
units (10A) perform the fourth action. Each of the second humidity
control units (10B) supplies the air humidified by the moisture
absorption unit (30) to the indoor space (S1). Each of the first
humidity control units (10A) discharges the air that has given the
moisture to the adsorbent of the moisture absorption unit (30) to
the outdoor space (S2). This can ventilate and humidify the indoor
space (S1) in parallel.
[0086] When the second humidity control units (10B) finish the
third action, the second humidity control units (10B) perform the
third stop control. During the third stop control by the second
humidity control units (10B), the reversible fans (40) of the
second humidity control units (10B) are stopped. When the first
humidity control units (10A) finish the fourth action, the first
humidity control units (10A) perform the fourth stop control.
During the fourth stop control by the first humidity control units
(10A), the reversible fans (40) of the first humidity control units
(10A) are stopped.
[0087] In this manner, the humidity control system (S) allows the
first humidity control units (10A) and the second humidity control
units (10B) to alternately perform the third action and the fourth
action so that the third and fourth actions do not coincide with
each other. This can continuously ventilate and humidify the indoor
space (S1).
[0088] In the humidifying operation, the reversible fans (40) are
stopped during the third stop control between the third and fourth
actions. If each of the humidity control units (10) performs the
fourth action immediately after the third action, high humidity air
supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the third action may be
discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the fourth action. In
contrast, stopping the reversible fans for a period between the
third and fourth actions can disperse the high humidity air
supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the third action in the indoor
space (S1). This can keep the high humidity air supplied to the
indoor space (S1) in the third action from being discharged to the
outdoor space (S2) in the fourth action.
[0089] Likewise, the reversible fans (40) are stopped during the
fourth stop control between the fourth and third actions in the
humidifying operation. If each of the humidity control units (10)
performs the third action immediately after the fourth action, low
humidity air discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the fourth
action may be supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the third
action. In contrast, stopping the reversible fans (40) for a period
between the fourth and third actions can disperse the low humidity
air discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the fourth action in
the outdoor space (S2). This can keep the low humidity air
discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the fourth action from
being supplied to the indoor space (S1) in the third action.
[0090] The compressor (23) may be stopped during the third stop
control and the fourth stop control.
Advantages of Embodiment
[0091] A humidity control unit of the above embodiment includes: an
air passage (12) through which a first space (S1) which is a target
space and a second space (S2) communicate with each other; a
moisture absorber (30, 32) arranged in the air passage (12) and
configured to absorb moisture from air and desorb the moisture to
the air; a heat source (21, 22, 32) arranged in the air passage
(12) and configured to at least cool or heat the moisture absorber
(30, 32); an air transport mechanism (M) configured to allow the
air in the air passage (12) to flow in reverse directions; and a
controller (C) configured to control the heat source (21, 22, 32)
and the air transport mechanism (M).
[0092] In this configuration, the air transport mechanism (M) can
switch the direction of the air flowing in the air passage (12)
between two directions. This can downsize and simplify the humidity
control unit (10) without providing a passage for supplying the air
and another separate passage for discharging the air.
[0093] The controller (C) alternately performs a first action of
allowing the heat source (21, 22, 32) to cool the moisture absorber
(30, 32) and allowing the air transport mechanism (M) to transport
the air in the second space (S2) to the first space (S1), and a
second action of allowing the heat source (21, 22, 32) to heat the
moisture absorber (30, 32) and allowing the air transport mechanism
(M) to transport the air in the first space (S1) to the second
space (S2).
[0094] In this configuration, the outdoor air (OA) is dehumidified
by the moisture absorber (30, 32) and supplied to the indoor space
(S1) which is the first space in the first action of the
dehumidifying operation. In the second action of the dehumidifying
operation, the room air (RA) that has received the moisture
released from the moisture absorber (30, 32) is discharged to the
outdoor space (S2) which is the second space. Alternately repeating
the first action and the second action can intermittently
dehumidify the indoor space (S1). This can also ventilate the
indoor space (S1).
[0095] The controller (C) stops the air transport mechanism (M) for
a predetermined period after the end of the first action and before
the start of the second action.
[0096] This configuration can keep the low humidity air supplied to
the indoor space (S1) in the first action of the dehumidifying
operation from being discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the
second action. Thus, the humidity control unit (10) can be kept
from decreasing in dehumidification capability.
[0097] The controller (C) stops the air transport mechanism (M) for
a predetermined period after the end of the second action and
before the start of the first action.
[0098] This configuration can keep the high humidity air discharged
to the outdoor space (S2) in the second action of the dehumidifying
operation from returning to the indoor space (S1) in the first
action. Thus, the humidity control unit (10) can be kept from
decreasing in dehumidification capability.
[0099] The controller (C) alternately performs a third action of
allowing the heat source (21, 22, 32) to heat the moisture absorber
(30, 32) and allowing the air transport mechanism (M) to transport
the air in the second space (S2) to the first space (S1), and a
fourth action of allowing the heat source (21, 22, 32) to cool the
moisture absorber (30, 32) and allowing the air transport mechanism
(M) to transport the air in the first space (S1) to the second
space (S2).
[0100] In this configuration, the outdoor air (OA) can be
humidified by the moisture absorber (30, 32) and supplied to the
indoor space (S1) which is the first space in the third action of
the humidifying operation. In the fourth action of the humidifying
operation, the room air that has given the moisture to the moisture
absorber (30, 32) can be discharged to the outdoor space (S2).
Alternately repeating the third action and the fourth action can
intermittently dehumidify the indoor space (S1). This can also
ventilate the indoor space (S1).
[0101] The controller (C) stops the air transport mechanism (M) for
a predetermined period after the end of the third action and before
the start of the fourth action.
[0102] This configuration can keep the high humidity air supplied
to the indoor space (S1) in the third action of the humidifying
operation from being discharged to the outdoor space (S2) in the
fourth action. Thus, the humidity control unit (10) can be kept
from decreasing in humidification capability.
[0103] The controller (C) stops the air transport mechanism (M) for
a predetermined period after the end of the fourth action and
before the start of the third action.
[0104] This configuration can keep the low humidity air discharged
to the outdoor space (S2) in the fourth action of the humidifying
operation from returning to the indoor space (S1) in the third
action. Thus, the humidity control unit (10) can be kept from
decreasing in humidification capability.
[0105] The first space (S1) is the indoor space, and the second
space (S2) is the outdoor space.
[0106] This configuration can ventilate the indoor space (S1) with
the air moving between the indoor space (S1) and the outdoor space
(S2).
[0107] The heat source (21, 22, 32) includes a heat exchange unit
(21, 22, 32) in which a heating medium flows. The heat exchange
unit includes a first heat exchanger (21) that is arranged closer
to the first space (S1) than the moisture absorber (30) and that
cools and heats the air, and a second heat exchanger (22) that is
arranged closer to the second space (S2) than the moisture absorber
(30) and that cools and heats the air.
[0108] In this configuration, the first heat exchanger (21) can
cool the air upstream of the moisture absorption unit (30) in the
first action of the dehumidifying operation. The second heat
exchanger (22) can heat the air upstream of the moisture absorption
unit (30) in the second action of the dehumidifying operation. The
first heat exchanger (21) can heat the air upstream of the moisture
absorption unit (30) in the third action of the humidifying
operation. The second heat exchanger (22) can cool the air upstream
of the moisture absorption unit (30) in the fourth action of the
humidifying operation.
[0109] The center of an opening (13) to the first space (S1) in the
air passage (12) and the center of an opening (14) to the second
space (S2) in the air passage (12) substantially coincide with each
other in a direction of the air flowing in the air passage
(12).
[0110] This configuration can reduce the flow path resistance of
the air passage (12) because the indoor air port (13) and the
outdoor air port (14) coincide with each other in the axial
direction. Thus, power required for the reversible fan (40) can be
reduced.
[0111] The air passage (12) is provided to penetrate a wall (W)
that is a partition between the first space (S1) from the second
space (S2).
[0112] In this configuration, the humidity control unit (10) can be
installed more easily than a humidity control unit (10) installed,
for example, in the ceiling.
[0113] The humidity control system (S) has a plurality of humidity
control units (10). The interlock control unit (C) controls the
plurality of humidity control units (10) in a coordinated
manner.
[0114] This configuration allows the plurality of humidity control
units (10) to perform dehumidification, humidification, and
ventilation suitable for the target space.
[0115] The plurality of humidity control units (10) include at
least one first humidity control unit (10A) and at least one second
humidity control unit (10B). The first humidity control unit (10A)
and the second humidity control unit (10B) are configured to
alternately perform a first action of allowing the heat source (21,
22, 32) to cool the moisture absorber (30, 32) and allowing the air
transport mechanism (M) to transport the air in the second space
(S2) to the first space (S1), and a second action of allowing the
heat source (21, 22, 32) to heat the moisture absorber (30, 32) and
allowing the air transport mechanism (M) to transport the air in
the first space (S1) to the second space (S2). The interlock
control unit (C) controls the first humidity control unit (10A) and
the second humidity control unit (10B) so that the second humidity
control unit (10B) performs the second action when the first
humidity control unit (10A) performs the first action, and the
second humidity control unit (10B) performs the first action when
the first humidity control unit (10A) performs the second
action.
[0116] This configuration can substantially continuously dehumidify
the indoor space (S1). The indoor space (S1) can also be ventilated
in a first mode of ventilation.
[0117] The first humidity control unit (10A) and the second
humidity control unit (10B) are configured to alternately perform a
third action of allowing the heat source (21, 22, 32) to heat the
moisture absorber (30, 32) and allowing the air transport mechanism
(M) to transport the air in the second space (S2) to the first
space (S1), and a fourth action of allowing the heat source (21,
22, 32) to cool the moisture absorber (30, 32) and allowing the air
transport mechanism (M) to transport the air in the first space
(S1) to the second space (S2). The interlock control unit (C)
controls the first humidity control unit (10A) and the second
humidity control unit (10B) so that the second humidity control
unit (10B) performs the fourth action when the first humidity
control unit (10A) performs the third action, and the second
humidity control unit (10B) performs the third action when the
first humidity control unit (10A) performs the fourth action.
[0118] This configuration can substantially continuously humidify
the indoor space (S1). The indoor space (S1) can also be ventilated
in a first mode of ventilation.
Variations of Embodiment
[0119] The foregoing embodiment may be modified as the following
variations.
[0120] <First Variation (Variation of Interlock Control)>
[0121] A humidity control system (S) of a first variation differs
from the humidity control system of the above embodiment in how the
interlock control unit (C) controls the humidity control units
(10).
[0122] In the dehumidifying operation of the variation shown in
FIG. 7, the first action by the first humidity control unit (10A)
and the second action by the second humidity control unit (10B) are
shifted in time from each other, and the second action by the first
humidity control unit (10A) and the first action by the second
humidity control unit (10B) are shifted in time from each other.
Each of the first humidity control unit (10A) and the second
humidity control unit (10B) performs stop control for stopping the
air transport mechanism (M) for a predetermined period between the
first action and the second action. In the first variation, while
one of the first humidity control unit (10A) or the second humidity
control unit (10B) performs the stop control, the other humidity
control unit (10) performs the first or second action.
[0123] Specifically, for example, the first humidity control unit
(10A) performs the first stop control after the first action.
During the first stop control by the first humidity control unit
(10A), the second humidity control unit (10B) continues the second
action. Thus, the second humidity control unit (10B) can discharge
the air while the air transport mechanism (M) of the first humidity
control unit (10A) is stopped. In other words, a third mode of
ventilation can be performed during the stop control by the first
humidity control unit (10A).
[0124] Then, the second humidity control unit (10B) performs the
second stop control after the second action. During the second stop
control by the second humidity control unit (10B), the first
humidity control unit (10A) performs the second action. Thus, the
first humidity control unit (10A) can discharge the air while the
air transport mechanism (M) of the second humidity control unit
(10B) is stopped. In other words, the third mode of ventilation can
be performed during the stop control by the second humidity control
unit (10B).
[0125] Then, the first humidity control unit (10A) performs the
second stop control after the second action. During the second stop
control by the first humidity control unit (10A), the second
humidity control unit (10B) continues the first action. Thus, the
second humidity control unit (10B) can supply the air while the air
transport mechanism (M) of the first humidity control unit (10A) is
stopped. In other words, a second mode of ventilation can be
performed during the stop control by the first humidity control
unit (10A).
[0126] Then, the second humidity control unit (10B) performs the
first stop control after the first action. During the first stop
control by the second humidity control unit (10B), the first
humidity control unit (10A) performs the first action. Thus, the
first humidity control unit (10A) can supply the air while the air
transport mechanism (M) of the second humidity control unit (10B)
is stopped. In other words, the second mode of ventilation can be
performed during the stop control by the second humidity control
unit (10B).
[0127] As described above, in the first variation, the first
humidity control unit (10A) and the second humidity control unit
(10B) do not perform the stop control in parallel. While one of the
humidity control units (10) performs the stop control, the other
humidity control unit (10) performs the first or second action.
Thus, during the dehumidifying operation of the humidity control
system (S), the ventilation can be always performed in any one of
the first, second, or third mode.
[0128] In the humidifying operation of the first variation shown in
FIG. 8, the third action by the first humidity control unit (10A)
and the fourth action by the second humidity control unit (10B) are
shifted in time from each other, and the fourth action by the first
humidity control unit (10A) and the third action by the second
humidity control unit (10B) are shifted in time from each other.
Each of the first humidity control unit (10A) and the second
humidity control unit (10B) performs stop control for stopping the
air transport mechanism (M) for a predetermined period between the
third action and the fourth action. In the first variation, while
one of the first humidity control unit (10A) or the second humidity
control unit (10B) performs the stop control, the other humidity
control unit (10) performs the third or fourth action.
[0129] Specifically, for example, the first humidity control unit
(10A) performs the third stop control after the third action.
During the third stop control by the first humidity control unit
(10A), the second humidity control unit (10B) continues the fourth
action. Thus, the second humidity control unit (10B) can discharge
the air while the air transport mechanism (M) of the first humidity
control unit (10A) is stopped. In other words, a third mode of
ventilation can be performed during the stop control by the first
humidity control unit (10A).
[0130] Then, the second humidity control unit (10B) performs the
fourth stop control after the fourth action. During the fourth stop
control by the second humidity control unit (10B), the first
humidity control unit (10A) performs the fourth action. Thus, the
first humidity control unit (10A) can discharge the air while the
air transport mechanism (M) of the second humidity control unit
(10B) is stopped. In other words, the third mode of ventilation can
be performed during the stop control by the second humidity control
unit (10B).
[0131] Then, the first humidity control unit (10A) performs the
fourth stop control after the fourth action. During the fourth stop
control by the first humidity control unit (10A), the second
humidity control unit (10B) continues the third action. Thus, the
second humidity control unit (10B) can supply the air while the air
transport mechanism (M) of the first humidity control unit (10A) is
stopped. In other words, a second mode of ventilation can be
performed during the stop control by the first humidity control
unit (10A).
[0132] Then, the second humidity control unit (10B) performs the
third stop control after the third action. During the third stop
control by the second humidity control unit (10B), the first
humidity control unit (10A) performs the third action. Thus, the
first humidity control unit (10A) can supply the air while the air
transport mechanism (M) of the second humidity control unit (10B)
is stopped. In other words, the second mode of ventilation can be
performed during the stop control by the second humidity control
unit (10B).
[0133] As described above, in the first variation, the first
humidity control unit (10A) and the second humidity control unit
(10B) do not perform the stop control in parallel. While one of the
humidity control units (10) performs the stop control, the other
humidity control unit (10) performs the third or fourth action.
Thus, during the humidifying operation of the humidity control
system (S), the ventilation can be always performed in any one of
the first, second, or third mode.
[0134] <Second Variation (Variation (1) of Heat Source
Device)>
[0135] The heat source device (20) of the above embodiment includes
the outdoor heat exchanger (24) and the outdoor fan (25), and
causes the air and the refrigerant to exchange heat in the outdoor
heat exchanger (24). The outdoor heat exchanger (24) may be
replaced with an internal heat exchanger that causes the
refrigerant and a suitable medium such as water or brine to
exchange heat. A double-pipe heat exchanger or a shell-and-tube
heat exchanger can be employed as the internal heat exchanger.
[0136] <Third Variation (Variation (2) of Heat Source
Device)>
[0137] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the heat source device (20) may be
configured to directly supply water or brine to the first heat
exchanger (21) and the second heat exchanger (22).
[0138] The heat source device (20) of the third variation includes
a first heating medium circuit (50) and a second heating medium
circuit (60). The first heating medium circuit (50) sequentially
connects a first pump (51), a first heat exchanger (21), and a
first heat source-heat exchanger (52). The second heating medium
circuit (60) sequentially connects a second pump (61), a second
heat exchanger (22), and a second heat source-heat exchanger
(62).
[0139] The first pump (51) allows a heating medium (e.g., water) in
the first heating medium circuit (50) to circulate. The first heat
source-heat exchanger (52) exchanges heat between the heating
medium in the first heating medium circuit (50) and the heating
medium (e.g., water) in an associated secondary flow path (first
secondary flow path (52a)). The second pump (61) allows the heating
medium (e.g., water) in the second heating medium circuit (60) to
circulate. The second heat source-heat exchanger (62) exchanges
heat between the heating medium in the second heating medium
circuit (60) and the heating medium (e.g., water) in an associated
secondary flow path (second secondary flow path (62a)). Cold or hot
water is supplied to the first secondary flow path (52a) and the
second secondary flow path (62a) in conjunction with the operation
of the humidity control units (10).
[0140] Specifically, in the dehumidifying operation, the humidity
control unit (10) performing the first action operates the first
pump (51) to supply cold water to the first secondary flow path
(52a) of the first heat source-heat exchanger (52). The first heat
source-heat exchanger (52) cools the water in the first heating
medium circuit (50), and the cooled water is supplied to the first
heat exchanger (21). Thus, the first heat exchanger (21) can cool
the air. In the dehumidifying operation, the humidity control unit
(10) performing the second action operates the second pump (61) to
supply hot water to the second secondary flow path (62a) of the
second heat source-heat exchanger (62). The second heat source-heat
exchanger (62) heats the water in the second heating medium circuit
(60), and the heated water is supplied to the second heat exchanger
(22). Thus, the second heat exchanger (22) can heat the air.
[0141] In the humidifying operation, the humidity control unit (10)
performing the third action operates the first pump (51) to supply
hot water to the first secondary flow path (52a) of the first heat
source-heat exchanger (52). The first heat source-heat exchanger
(52) heats the water in the first heating medium circuit (50), and
the heated water is supplied to the first heat exchanger (21).
Thus, the first heat exchanger (21) can heat the air. In the
humidifying operation, the humidity control unit (10) performing
the second action operates the second pump (61) to supply cold
water to the second secondary flow path (62a) of the second heat
source-heat exchanger (62). The second heat source-heat exchanger
(62) cools the water in the second heating medium circuit (60), and
the cooled water is supplied to the second heat exchanger (22).
Thus, the second heat exchanger (22) can heat the air.
[0142] The cold or hot water may be supplied to the first secondary
flow path (52a) and the second secondary side flow path (62a) from
a heat supply facility shared in a predetermined area. The hot
water may be generated using heat in the ground, for example. The
cold or hot water may be generated using a heat pump chiller
unit.
[0143] Fourth Variation (Variation (3) of Heat Source Device)
[0144] Any other devices than the above-described ones may be used
to heat or cool the moisture absorption unit (30). For example, an
electric heater may be used to heat the moisture absorption unit
(30). A Peltier element may be used to cool and heat the moisture
absorption unit (30). The heat source device (20) may at least cool
or heat the air using, for example, a magnetic cooling heat pump or
an adsorption heat pump.
[0145] <Fifth Variation (Variation (1) of Moisture
Absorber)>
[0146] In a humidity control unit (10) of the fifth variation shown
in FIG. 10, the moisture absorption unit (30) and the heat
exchangers (21, 22) are configured as a single unit. An adsorption
heat exchanger (32) having an adsorbent supported on the surface of
the heat exchanger functions as the heat exchangers (21, 22) or the
moisture absorption unit (30). The adsorbent is supported on the
surfaces of the fins of the heat exchanger, for example. The
adsorbent is made of a material that adsorbs moisture.
[0147] The adsorption heat exchanger (32) is connected to the
refrigerant circuit (R) of the heat source device (20) just like
the heat exchanger of the above embodiment. The refrigerant circuit
(R) switches between a refrigeration cycle, i.e., a fifth
refrigeration cycle, in which the outdoor heat exchanger (24)
serves as a radiator and the adsorption heat exchanger (32) as an
evaporator, and a refrigeration cycle, i.e., a sixth refrigeration
cycle, in which the adsorption heat exchanger (32) serves as a
radiator and the outdoor heat exchanger (24) as an evaporator.
[0148] In the first action of the dehumidifying operation, the
adsorption heat exchanger (32) serves as an evaporator. The outdoor
air (OA) taken into the air passage (12) by the air transport
mechanism (M) passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (32).
The adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (32) adsorbs
moisture in the air. Heat generated during the adsorption is used
for the evaporation of the refrigerant. The air cooled and
dehumidified by the adsorption heat exchanger (32) is supplied to
the indoor space (S1) as the supply air (SA).
[0149] In the second action of the dehumidifying operation, the
adsorption heat exchanger (32) serves as a radiator. The room air
(RA) taken into the air passage (12) by the air transport mechanism
(M) passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (32). The
adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (32) releases the
moisture into the air. The air used to regenerate the adsorbent is
discharged as the exhaust air (EA) to the outdoor space (S2).
[0150] In the third action of the humidifying operation, the
adsorption heat exchanger (32) serves as a radiator. The outdoor
air (OA) taken into the air passage (12) by the air transport
mechanism (M) passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (32).
The adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (32) releases the
moisture into the air. The air heated and humidified by the
adsorption heat exchanger (32) is supplied to the indoor space (S1)
as the supply air (SA).
[0151] In the fourth action of the humidifying operation, the
adsorption heat exchanger (32) serves as an evaporator. The room
air (RA) taken into the air passage (12) by the air transport
mechanism (M) passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (32).
The adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (32) adsorbs
moisture in the air. The air that has given the moisture to the
adsorbent is discharged to the outdoor space (S2) as the exhaust
air (EA).
[0152] <Sixth Variation (Variation (2) of Moisture
Absorber)>
[0153] As illustrated in FIG. 11, a moisture absorption unit (30)
of the sixth variation is formed in a substantially cylindrical
shape. The moisture absorption unit (30) has a cylindrical
substrate (33) having a plurality of small pores and an adsorbent
supported on the substrate (33). The moisture absorption unit (30)
is arranged in the air passage (12) so that its axial direction
coincides with the direction of air flow. The moisture absorption
unit (30) is arranged between the first heat exchanger (21) and the
second heat exchanger (22) just like the moisture absorption unit
of the above embodiment.
[0154] <Seventh Variation (Variation (3) of Moisture
Absorber)>
[0155] As illustrated in FIG. 12, a moisture absorption unit (30)
of the seventh variation is formed in a substantially rectangular
cuboid shape. The moisture absorption unit (30) has a substrate
(33) of a rectangular cuboid shape having a plurality of small
pores and an adsorbent supported on the substrate (33). The
moisture absorption unit (30) is arranged between the first heat
exchanger (21) and the second heat exchanger (22) just like the
moisture absorption unit of the above embodiment.
[0156] <Eighth Variation (Variation (4) of Moisture
Absorber)>
[0157] As illustrated in FIG. 13, a moisture absorption unit (30)
of the eighth variation includes a mesh container (34) and a
granular adsorbent (35) filling the container (34). The mesh
container (34) is arranged in the air passage (12). The air in the
air passage (12) passes through the mesh container (34) and flows
around the adsorbent (35). The moisture absorption unit (30) is
arranged between the first heat exchanger (21) and the second heat
exchanger (22) just like the moisture absorption unit of the above
embodiment.
[0158] <Ninth Variation (Variation (5) of Moisture
Absorber)>
[0159] As illustrated in FIG. 14, a moisture absorption unit (30)
of the ninth variation has a storage tank (36). The storage tank
(36) stores a liquid absorbent. The liquid absorbent is, for
example, an aqueous lithium chloride solution. The moisture
absorption unit (30) has a plurality of air flow pipes (37). The
air flow pipes (37) penetrate the storage tank (36) in the
direction of air flow in the air passage (12). Each of the air flow
pipes (37) is formed of a cylindrical moisture permeable membrane.
The moisture permeable membrane is a membrane that does not allow
the liquid absorbent to penetrate and allows water vapor to
permeate. The moisture absorption unit (30) is arranged between the
first heat exchanger (21) and the second heat exchanger (22) just
like the moisture absorption unit of the above embodiment.
[0160] In the first action of the dehumidifying operation, the air
cooled in the first heat exchanger (21) flows through the plurality
of air flow pipes (37). The liquid absorbent absorbs the moisture
in the air through the moisture permeable membrane. In the second
action of the dehumidifying operation, the air heated in the second
heat exchanger (22) flows through the plurality of air flow pipes
(37). The liquid absorbent in the air flow pipes (37) gives the
water vapor to the air through the moisture permeable membrane.
[0161] In the third action of the humidifying operation, the air
heated in the first heat exchanger (21) flows through the plurality
of air flow pipes (37). The liquid absorbent in the air flow pipes
(37) gives the water vapor to the air through the moisture
permeable membrane. In the fourth action of the humidifying
operation, the air cooled in the second heat exchanger (22) flows
through the plurality of air flow pipes (37). The liquid absorbent
absorbs the moisture in the air through the moisture permeable
membrane.
[0162] <Tenth Variation (Variation (1) of Air Transport
Mechanism)>
[0163] As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, humidity control units
(10) of the tenth variation differ from those of the above
embodiment in the configuration of the air transport mechanism (M).
The air transport mechanism (M) of the tenth variation includes a
first fan (44) and a second fan (45). Each of the first fan (44)
and the second fan (45) transports the air only in one direction.
The first fan (44) transports the air only to the indoor space
(S1). The second fan (45) transports the air only to the outdoor
space (S2).
[0164] As illustrated in FIG. 15, in the first action of the
dehumidifying operation, the first fan (44) is operated and the
second fan (45) is stopped. Thus, the outdoor air (OA) in the
outdoor space (S2) can be supplied to the indoor space (S1) as the
supply air (SA). As illustrated in FIG. 16, in the second action of
the dehumidifying operation, the second fan (45) is operated and
the first fan (44) is stopped. Thus, the room air (RA) in the
indoor space (S1) can be discharged to the outdoor space (S2) as
the exhaust air (EA).
[0165] As illustrated in FIG. 15, in the third action of the
humidifying operation, the first fan (44) is operated and the
second fan (45) is stopped. Thus, the outdoor air (OA) in the
outdoor space (S2) can be supplied to the indoor space (S1) as the
supply air (SA). As illustrated in FIG. 16, in the fourth action of
the humidifying operation, the second fan (45) is operated and the
first fan (44) is stopped. Thus, the room air (RA) in the indoor
space (S1) can be discharged to the outdoor space (S2) as the
exhaust air (EA).
[0166] <Eleventh Variation (Variation (2) of Air Transport
Mechanism)>
[0167] As illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, humidity control units
(10) of the eleventh variation differ from those of the above
embodiment in the configuration of the air transport mechanism (M).
The air transport mechanism (M) of the eleventh variation includes
a unidirectional fan (46). The unidirectional fan (46) transports
the air only in one direction. The air transport mechanism (M)
further includes a first damper (D1), a second damper (D2), and a
third damper (D3). These dampers (D1, D2, D3) constitute a flow
path switching mechanism. The flow path switching mechanism
switches the air passage (12) between a first state and a second
state. In the air passage (12) in the first state shown in FIG. 17,
the air transported by the unidirectional fan (46) flows from the
outdoor space (S2) to the indoor space (S1). In the air passage
(12) in the second state shown in FIG. 18, the air transported by
the unidirectional fan (46) flows from the indoor space (S1) to the
outdoor space (S2).
[0168] The air passage (12) of the humidity control unit (10)
includes a first passage (P1), a second passage (P2), a third
passage (P3), and a fourth passage (P4). In the first passage (P1),
a first heat exchanger (21), a moisture absorption unit (30), and a
second heat exchanger (22) are arranged in this order. The first
passage (P1) can communicate with the outdoor air port (14), the
indoor air port (13), the second passage (P2), and the fourth
passage (P4). The second passage (P2) can communicate with the
first passage (P1) and the third passage (P3). The first fan (44)
is arranged in the third passage (P3). The third passage (P3) can
communicate with at least the outdoor air port (14), the first
passage (P1), and the fourth passage (P4). The fourth passage (P4)
can communicate with at least the indoor air port (13), the first
passage (P1), and the third passage (P3).
[0169] The first damper (D1) switches between a first state in
which the indoor air port (13) is blocked from the first passage
(P1), and a second state in which the indoor air port (13) and the
first passage (P1) communicate with each other. The second damper
(D2) switches between a first state in which the fourth passage
(P4) and the third passage (P3) communicate with each other and the
outdoor air port (14) is blocked from the third passage (P3), and a
second state in which the fourth passage (P4) is blocked from the
third passage (P3) and the third passage (P3) and the outdoor air
port (14) communicate with each other. The third damper (D3)
switches between a first state in which the second passage (P2) is
blocked from the outdoor air port (14), and a second state in which
the first passage (P1) and the second passage (P2) communicate with
each other.
[0170] As illustrated in FIG. 17, in the first action of the
dehumidifying operation, the unidirectional fan (46) is operated,
and the flow path switching mechanism switches the air passage (12)
to the first state. Specifically, the first damper (D1), the second
damper (D2), and the third damper (D3) are switched to the first
state. The outdoor air (OA) flows through the first passage (P1),
and is cooled and dehumidified in the first heat exchanger (21).
The air sequentially flows through the third passage (P3) and the
fourth passage (P4), and is supplied as the supply air (SA) to the
indoor space (S1). As illustrated in FIG. 18, in the second action
of the dehumidifying operation, the unidirectional fan (46) is
operated, and the flow path switching mechanism switches the air
passage (12) to the second state. Specifically, the first damper
(D1), the second damper (D2), and the third damper (D3) are
switched to the second state. The room air (RA) flows through the
first passage (P1), and regenerates the adsorbent of the second
heat exchanger (22). The air sequentially flows through the second
passage (P2) and the third passage (P3), and is discharged as the
exhaust air (EA) to the outdoor space (S2).
[0171] As illustrated in FIG. 17, in the third action of the
humidifying operation, the unidirectional fan (46) is operated, and
the flow path switching mechanism switches the air passage (12) to
the first state. Specifically, the first damper (D1), the second
damper (D2), and the third damper (D3) are switched to the first
state. The outdoor air (OA) flows through the first passage (P1),
and is heated and humidified in the first heat exchanger (21). The
air sequentially flows through the third passage (P3) and the
fourth passage (P4), and is supplied as the supply air (SA) to the
indoor space (S1).
[0172] As illustrated in FIG. 18, in the fourth action of the
humidifying operation, the unidirectional fan (46) is operated, and
the flow path switching mechanism switches the air passage (12) to
the second state. Specifically, the first damper (D1), the second
damper (D2), and the third damper (D3) are switched to the second
state. The room air (RA) flows through the first passage (P1), and
gives the moisture to the adsorbent of the second heat exchanger
(22). The air sequentially flows through the second passage (P2)
and the third passage (P3), and is discharged as the exhaust air
(EA) to the outdoor space (S2).
[0173] <Twelfth Variation (Filter)>
[0174] As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20, a humidity control unit
(10) of the twelfth variation has a filter (38). The filter (38) is
arranged closer to the outdoor space (S2) than the moisture
absorption unit (30), the first heat exchanger (21), and the second
heat exchanger (22). The filter (38) is arranged near the outdoor
air port (14). The filter (38) collects dust in the outdoor air
(OA) flowing into the air passage (12).
[0175] The filter (38) is configured such that the dust adhering to
the filter (38) is removed by the air flowing from the outdoor
space (S2) to the indoor space (S1).
[0176] Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the filter (38)
collects the dust on its outer surface in the first action of the
dehumidifying operation. In this state, when the second action of
the dehumidifying operation is performed as illustrated in FIG. 20,
the exhaust air (EA) passes through the filter (38). The exhaust
air (EA) can release the dust adhering to the outer surface of the
filter (38) to the outdoor space (S2). When the first and second
actions are alternately performed in the dehumidifying operation,
the amount of dust adhering to the filter (38) can be substantially
reduced. This can extend the life of the filter (38).
[0177] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the filter (38) collects the dust
on its outer surface in the third action of the humidifying
operation. In this state, when the fourth action of the humidifying
operation is performed as illustrated in FIG. 20, the exhaust air
(EA) passes through the filter (38). The exhaust air (EA) can
release the dust adhering to the outer surface of the filter (38)
to the outdoor space (S2). When the third and fourth actions are
alternately performed in the humidifying operation, the amount of
dust adhering to the filter (38) can be substantially reduced. This
can extend the life of the filter (38).
[0178] <Thirteenth Variation (Other Arrangement of Humidity
Control Unit)>
[0179] The humidity control unit (10) of the embodiment is provided
on the wall (W) of a house. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the humidity
control unit (10) may be arranged in a window (5) or window frame
(6) of the house.
[0180] <Fourteenth Variation (First Example of Positive Pressure
Control)>
[0181] A humidity control system (S) of the fourteenth variation
shown in FIG. 22 controls the plurality of humidity control units
(10) based on how much the outdoor air is polluted and whether or
not the outdoor air has entered the indoor space.
[0182] The humidity control system (S) includes an entry detector
(70) configured to detect the entry of the outdoor air from the
outdoor space (S2) into the indoor space (S1), and a first
determination unit (71) configured to determine the degree of
pollution of the outdoor air.
[0183] The entry detector (70) of this variation is an
opening/closing detector that detects the opening and closing of a
door (7) of the house. When the door (7) is opened, the entry
detector (70) outputs a signal indicating the entry of the outdoor
air to the interlock control unit (C).
[0184] The first determination unit (71) acquires information on
the degree of pollution of the outdoor air. The information on the
degree of pollution of the outdoor air includes, for example,
pollutants in the outdoor air, such as pollen, suspended
particulate matter, and odorous components. The first determination
unit (71) of this variation acquires information on the pollen in
the outdoor air as information indicating the degree of pollution
of the outdoor air. The first determination unit (71) receives
information from an external agency such as the Meteorological
Agency via the Internet. The first determination unit (71) may be a
sensor that directly detects the degree of pollution, such as the
amount of pollen in the outdoor air.
[0185] The interlock control unit (C) controls the plurality of
humidity control units (10) so that the indoor space (S1) has a
positive pressure when a first condition and a second condition are
met. The first condition is that the degree of pollution of the
outdoor air exceeds a predetermined threshold value. The second
condition is that the entry detector (70) detects the entry of the
outdoor air. When these conditions are met, the pollen in the
outdoor air enters the indoor space (S1) through the open door.
When these conditions are met, the interlock control unit (C)
controls the plurality of humidity control units (10) so that the
total amount of the air supplied by the plurality of humidity
control units (10) exceeds the total amount of the air discharged
by the plurality of humidity control units (10).
[0186] Specifically, the number of humidity control units (10) that
supply the air is made larger than the number of humidity control
units (10) that discharge the air. Alternatively, the humidity
control units (10) for supplying the air are caused to supply more
air. Conversely, the humidity control units (10) for discharging
the air are caused to discharge less air. This control keeps the
indoor space (S1) at a positive pressure. Thus, the pollen and
other pollutants in the outdoor air can be kept from entering the
indoor space (S1).
[0187] When only the first condition is met, the interlock control
unit (C) may control the plurality of humidity control units (10)
so that the total amount of the air supplied by the humidity
control units (10) exceeds the total amount of air discharged by
the humidity control units (10). When only the second condition is
met, the interlock control unit (C) may control the plurality of
humidity control units (10) so that the total amount of the air
supplied by the humidity control units (10) exceeds the total
amount of air discharged by the humidity control units (10).
[0188] <Fifteenth Variation (Second Example of Positive Pressure
Control)>
[0189] A humidity control system (S) of the fifteenth variation
runs in a positive-pressure operating mode in which the indoor
space (S1) is always kept at a positive pressure regardless of the
pollution or entry of the outdoor air. This positive-pressure
operating mode is used in a place such as a clean room and an
operating room. When the positive-pressure operating mode is
selected, the plurality of humidity control units (10) are
controlled so that the total amount of the air supplied by the
humidity control units (10) exceeds the total amount of the air
discharged by the humidity control units (10). This can keep the
air from entering the clean room or the operating room from the
external space at any time.
[0190] <Sixteenth Variation (Negative Pressure Control)>
[0191] A humidity control system (S) of the sixteenth variation
shown in FIG. 23 controls a plurality of humidity control units
(10) based on the degree of pollution of the air in the indoor
space (S1).
[0192] The humidity control system (S) includes a second
determination unit (72) that determines the degree of pollution of
the air in the indoor space (S1). The second determination unit
(72) of this variation is an air quality sensor that is disposed in
the indoor space (S1) and detects the indoor air quality. The air
quality used as an index of the degree of pollution of the air
indicates the amount of pollutants, such as dust, odorous
components, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOC). The
interlock control unit (C) receives information detected by the
second determination unit (72).
[0193] When a third condition is met, the interlock control unit
(C) controls the plurality of humidity control units (10) so that
the indoor space (S1) has a negative pressure. The third condition
is that the degree of pollution of the air in the indoor space (S1)
exceeds a predetermined threshold value. When this condition is
met, the interlock control unit (C) controls the plurality of
humidity control units (10) so that the total amount of the air
discharged by the humidity control units (10) exceeds the total
amount of the air supplied by the humidity control units (10).
[0194] Specifically, the number of humidity control units (10) that
discharges the air is made larger than the number of humidity
control units (10) that supplies the air. Alternatively, the
humidity control units (10) for discharging the air are caused to
discharge more air. Conversely, the humidity control units (10) for
supplying the air is caused to supply less air. This control can
quickly discharge the pollutants in the air in the indoor space
(S1), such as the dust and the odorous components, to the outdoor
space (S2).
[0195] <Seventeenth Variation (Control based on CO.sub.2
Concentration)>
[0196] A humidity control system (S) of the seventeenth variation
includes a concentration sensor. The CO.sub.2 concentration sensor
is disposed in the indoor space (S1). The interlock control unit
(C) controls the amounts of the air supplied and discharged by the
plurality of humidity control units (10) so that the CO.sub.2
concentration detected by the CO.sub.2 concentration sensor is
equal to or lower than a predetermined value.
[0197] <Eighteenth Variation (Interlock Control with Air
Conditioner)>
[0198] A humidity control system (S) of the eighteenth variation is
operated in conjunction with the air conditioner. The air
conditioner conditions the air in the indoor space (S1). The
humidity control system (S) can perform, in a switchable manner, a
first operation in which dehumidification by the humidity control
unit (10) and cooling by the air conditioner are performed in
parallel, and a second operation in which only the dehumidification
by the humidity control unit (10) is performed with the air
conditioner stopped. The interlock control unit (C) controls the
air conditioner and the plurality of humidity control units (10) in
a coordinated manner.
[0199] A calculation unit of the interlock control unit (C)
estimates the operating efficiency E1 during the first operation
and the operating efficiency E2 during the second operation based
on pieces of information, such as the outdoor air temperature, the
indoor air temperature, the outdoor air humidity, and the indoor
air humidity. When the calculation unit determines that E1 is
higher than E2, the first operation is performed. When the
calculation unit determines that E2 is higher than E1, the second
operation is performed.
[0200] The humidity control system (S) can perform, in a switchable
manner, a third operation in which humidification by the humidity
control unit (10) and heating by the air conditioner are performed
in parallel, and a fourth operation in which only the
humidification by the humidity control unit (10) is performed with
the air conditioner stopped. The interlock control unit (C)
controls the air conditioner and the plurality of humidity control
units (10) in a coordinated manner.
[0201] The calculation unit of the interlock control unit (C)
estimates the operating efficiency E3 during the third operation
and the operating efficiency E4 during the fourth operation based
on pieces of information, such as the outdoor air temperature, the
indoor air temperature, the outdoor air humidity, and the indoor
air humidity. When the calculation unit determines that E3 is
higher than E4, the third operation is performed. When the
calculation unit determines that E4 is higher than E3, the fourth
operation is performed.
[0202] <Nineteenth Variation (Air Volume Control)>
[0203] A humidity control system (S) of the nineteenth variation
shown in FIG. 24 controls a plurality of humidity control units
(10) so that the total amount of the air supplied to the indoor
space (S1) and the total amount of the air discharged from the
indoor space (S1) are substantially equal. A range hood (8), which
is the other ventilator, is provided in the indoor space (S1) of
this variation. The humidity control system (S) includes an air
volume detector (73) configured to detect the air volume of the
range hood (8). The interlock control unit (C) receives the air
volume (the amount of the air discharged in this example) of the
range hood (8) detected by the air volume detector (73).
[0204] The interlock control unit (C) controls the amount of the
air supplied by the plurality of humidity control units (10) and
the amount of the air discharged by the plurality of humidity
control units (10) so that the total amount of air supplied by the
range hood (8) and the humidity control units (10) is substantially
equal to the total amount of air discharged by the range hood (8)
and the humidity control units (10). In other words, the plurality
of humidity control units (10) are controlled so that the total
amount of the air supplied to the indoor space (S1) and the total
amount of the air discharged from the indoor space (S1) become
substantially identical to each other. When the range hood (8) is
turned on, the total amount of the air supplied to the indoor space
(S1) and the total amount of the air discharged from the indoor
space (S1) can be kept in balance.
[0205] The other ventilator may be an exhaust fan or an air supply
fan other than the range hood (8).
Other Embodiments
[0206] The above embodiment and variations thereof may be
configured as follows.
[0207] The humidity control system (S) of the above embodiment
includes a plurality of humidity control units (10). However, only
a single humidity control unit (10) may perform the dehumidifying
operation and the humidifying operation. In this case, the single
humidity control unit (10) alternately repeats the first and second
actions of the dehumidifying operation. In the humidifying
operation, the single humidity control unit (10) alternately
repeats the third and fourth actions.
[0208] In the above embodiment, the controller for controlling the
plurality of humidity control units (10) is also used as the
interlock control unit (C). However, a controller may be provided
for each of the humidity control units (10) to control the
corresponding humidity control unit (10).
[0209] In the above embodiment, the humidity control unit (10) is
provided on the wall (W), window (5), or window frame (6) of the
house. However, the humidity control unit (10) may be installed in
a space above the ceiling to supply or discharge the air through a
duct.
[0210] In the dehumidifying operation of the above embodiment, the
first stop control is performed after the end of the first action
and before the start of the second action, and the second stop
control is performed after the end of the second action and before
the start of the first action. However, one or both of the first
and second stop controls may be omitted.
[0211] In the humidifying operation of the above embodiment, the
third stop control is performed after the end of the third action
and before the start of the fourth action, and the fourth stop
control is performed after the end of the fourth action and before
the start of the third action. However, one or both of the third
and fourth stop controls may be omitted.
[0212] While the embodiments and variations thereof have been
described above, it will be understood that various changes in form
and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope
of the claims. The embodiment, the variations thereof, and the
other embodiments may be combined and replaced with each other
without deteriorating intended functions of the present disclosure.
The expressions of "first," "second," and "third" described above
are used to distinguish the terms to which these expressions are
given, and do not limit the number and order of the terms.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0213] As can be seen from the foregoing description, the present
disclosure is useful for a humidity control unit and a humidity
control system.
EXPLANATION OF REFERENCES
[0214] S1 Indoor Space (First Space) [0215] S2 Outdoor Space
(Second Space) [0216] 5 Window [0217] 6 Window Frame [0218] 8
Ventilator [0219] 10 Humidity Control Unit [0220] 10A First
Humidity Control Unit [0221] 10B Second Humidity Control Unit
[0222] 12 Air Passage [0223] 13 Indoor Air Port (Opening) [0224] 14
Outdoor Air Port (Opening) [0225] 20a Outdoor Unit [0226] 21 First
Heat Exchanger (Heat Exchange Unit, Heat Source) [0227] 22 Second
Heat Exchanger (Heat Exchange Unit, Heat Source) [0228] 23
Compressor [0229] 24 Outdoor Heat Exchanger [0230] 30 Moisture
Absorption Unit (Moisture Absorber) [0231] 32 Adsorption Heat
Exchanger (Moisture Absorber, Heat Source) [0232] 38 Filter [0233]
44 First Fan [0234] 45 Second Fan [0235] 46 Unidirectional Fan
(Fan) [0236] 70 Entry Detector [0237] 71 First Determination Unit
[0238] 72 Second Determination Unit [0239] 73 Air Volume Detector
[0240] D1 First Damper (Flow Path Switching Mechanism) [0241] D2
Second Damper (Flow Path Switching Mechanism) [0242] D3 Third
Damper (Flow Path Switching Mechanism) [0243] M Air Transport
Mechanism
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