JP2005140420A - Humidity controller - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To shorten the time for the relative humidity of indoor air to reach a predetermined target after starting in a humidity controller for adjusting the humidity of air. <P>SOLUTION: In the casing 10 of the humidity controller, a humidity sensor 1 for detecting the relative humidity of indoor air RA is provided in the vicinity of an indoor-side suction port 15. In the humidifying operation of the humidity controller, a circulating operation for supplying second air as indoor air RA into a room at the time of starting and discharging first air as outdoor air OA out of the room is performed. Namely, during the circulating operation, the second air is taken followed by humidifying, and returned into the room, and the discharge of air from the inside of the room to the outside is not performed. When the detection value of the humidity sensor 1 reaches the predetermined reference value during the circulating operation, switching from the circulating operation to ventilating operation is performed in the humidity controller. During the ventilating operation, the second air as the outdoor air OA is supplied into the room, and the first air as the indoor air RA is discharged out of the room. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a humidity control device that adjusts indoor humidity.

  Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a humidity control device that adjusts the humidity of air using an adsorbent is known. This humidity control apparatus performs dehumidification or humidification of air supplied to a room by using two adsorbing elements alternately by switching the flow path of outdoor air and room air. The humidity control apparatus performs a ventilation operation for taking in outdoor air and supplying it to the room and taking in indoor air and discharging it to the outside. The humidity control apparatus performs a circulation operation of taking in indoor air and supplying it to the room and taking in outdoor air and discharging it to the outside.

  In the humidified ventilation operation, moisture in the room air is adsorbed by one adsorption element. The air deprived of moisture is discharged outside the room. On the other hand, the outdoor air is heated by the regenerative heat exchanger, regenerates the other adsorption element, and is then supplied to the room. In the dehumidification / ventilation operation, moisture in the outdoor air is adsorbed by one adsorption element. The dehumidified air is cooled by a cooling heat exchanger and supplied to the room. On the other hand, the indoor air is heated by the regenerative heat exchanger, regenerates the other adsorption element, and is then discharged outside the room.

In the humidification circulation operation, moisture in the outdoor air is adsorbed by one adsorption element. The air deprived of moisture is discharged outside the room. On the other hand, the indoor air is heated by the regenerative heat exchanger, regenerates the other adsorption element, and is then supplied to the room. In the dehumidification circulation operation, moisture in the room air is adsorbed by one adsorption element. The dehumidified air is cooled by a cooling heat exchanger and supplied to the room. On the other hand, the outdoor air is heated by the regenerative heat exchanger, regenerates the other adsorption element, and is then discharged outside.
JP 2003-202138 A

  As described above, the humidity control apparatus is configured to be capable of ventilation operation and circulation operation. When both indoor ventilation and humidity adjustment need to be performed by a humidity control device, the humidity control device is set to perform ventilation operation. On the other hand, when the room is ventilated by other means, the humidity control apparatus is set to perform a circulation operation.

  Here, during the ventilation operation, the outdoor air is conditioned by the humidity controller and then supplied to the room. For example, when humidifying a room in winter, outdoor air having a low absolute humidity is humidified by a humidity controller and then supplied to the room, and at the same time, air is exhausted from the room to the outside. Further, when dehumidifying a room in summer, outdoor air having a high absolute humidity is dehumidified by a humidity control device and then supplied to the room, and at the same time, air is exhausted from the room to the outside. For this reason, in the humidity control apparatus which performs ventilation operation, there existed a problem that it took time until the relative humidity of room air reached a predetermined target value after starting.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to take a period of time from activation until the relative humidity of the indoor air reaches a predetermined target value in a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of the air. Is to shorten.

  The first invention is provided with a first fan (96) for supplying air to the room, a second fan (95) for discharging the air to the outside, and an adsorbent for adsorbing moisture in the air. The adsorbing element (81, 82) is attached to the adsorbing element (81, 82) to remove moisture from either the indoor air or the outdoor air. It is intended for a humidity control device that applies separated moisture to the other.

  The ventilation operation can be switched between taking in outdoor air and supplying it to the room, taking in indoor air and discharging it to the outside, and circulating operation for taking in indoor air and supplying it to the room while taking in outdoor air and discharging it to the outside of the room The above-described circulation operation is performed at the time of start-up, and when the predetermined reference condition is satisfied during the circulation operation, the ventilation operation is switched to.

  According to a second invention, in the first invention, in the circulation operation, the flow rate of the air toward the room is different from the flow rate of the air toward the outside.

  According to a third invention, in the second invention, the moisture of the air going into the room is adsorbed by the adsorbing element (81, 82), and the moisture desorbed from the adsorbing element (81, 82) is turned into the air going out of the room. The dehumidifying operation to be applied is configured to be possible, and in the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, the flow rate of the air toward the room is larger than the flow rate of the air toward the outside.

  According to a fourth invention, in the second invention, the moisture of the air going to the outside is adsorbed by the adsorbing element (81, 82), and the moisture desorbed from the adsorbing element (81, 82) is turned into the air going indoors. The humidifying operation to be applied is configured to be possible, and in the circulation operation during the humidifying operation, the flow rate of the air toward the outside is larger than the flow rate of the air toward the room.

  According to a fifth invention, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, a humidity detection means (1) for detecting the humidity of the indoor air is provided, and the detected value of the humidity detection means (1) is a predetermined reference. Reaching the value is the standard condition.

  According to a sixth invention, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, there is provided temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the indoor air, and the reference is that the detected value of the temperature detecting means reaches a predetermined reference value. It is a condition.

  According to a seventh invention, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, a timer for measuring an elapsed time from activation is provided, and the measurement condition of the timer reaches a predetermined reference value. It is what has become.

-Action-
In the said 1st invention, a 1st fan (96), a 2nd fan (95), and an adsorption | suction element (81, 82) are provided in a humidity control apparatus. When the first fan (96) and the second fan (95) are operated, indoor air and outdoor air are taken into the humidity control device and sent to the adsorption element (81, 82). One of the indoor air and outdoor air taken into the humidity control device is dehumidified by desorption of moisture by the adsorption element (81, 82), and the other is given moisture desorbed from the adsorption element (81, 82). Humidified. Then, the humidity controller supplies one of the air dehumidified by the adsorption element (81, 82) and the air humidified by the adsorption element (81, 82) to the room and discharges the other to the room.

  When starting the humidity control apparatus of this invention, a circulation operation is first performed. During the circulation operation, the indoor air taken into the humidity control device is supplied to the room after passing through the adsorption element (81, 82), and the outdoor air taken into the humidity control device passes through the adsorption element (81, 82) It is discharged outside the room. In other words, the humidity control apparatus during the circulation operation takes in indoor air, sends it back to the room after humidity control, and does not exhaust the room from the room to the outside. When a predetermined reference condition is established during the circulation operation, the humidity control apparatus switches from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. During the ventilation operation, outdoor air taken into the humidity control device is supplied to the room after passing through the adsorption element (81, 82), and after indoor air taken into the humidity control device passes through the adsorption element (81, 82) It is discharged outside the room.

  In the second aspect of the present invention, in the circulation operation, the flow rate of the indoor air flowing into the room taken by driving the first fan (96) and the outdoor air going into the room taken by driving the second fan (95). The flow rate is set to a different value.

  In the said 3rd invention, a humidity control apparatus is comprised so that a dehumidification driving | operation is possible. In the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, moisture in the indoor air going indoors is adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82), while moisture desorbed from the adsorption element (81, 82) is given to outdoor air going outdoor. . In the ventilation operation during the dehumidifying operation, moisture in the outdoor air going indoors is adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82), while moisture desorbed from the adsorption element (81, 82) is given to indoor air going outdoor. .

  In the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, the flow rate of indoor air toward the room is larger than the flow rate of outdoor air toward the outdoor side. For this reason, the flow rate of the air dehumidified by the adsorption elements (81, 82) and supplied to the air is larger than when the flow rate of the indoor air toward the room and the flow rate of the outdoor air toward the room are equal.

  In the said 4th invention, a humidity control apparatus is comprised so that humidification driving | operation is possible. In the circulation operation during the humidifying operation, moisture desorbed from the adsorption element (81, 82) is given to the indoor air going indoors, while moisture in the outdoor air going outside is adsorbed to the adsorption element (81, 82). . In the ventilation operation during the humidification operation, moisture desorbed from the adsorption element (81, 82) is given to the outdoor air going indoors, while moisture in the indoor air going outside is adsorbed to the adsorption element (81, 82). .

  In the circulation operation during the humidifying operation, the outdoor air flow rate toward the outdoor is larger than the indoor air flow rate toward the indoor. For this reason, the flow rate of the air humidified by the adsorption elements (81, 82) and supplied to the room is larger than the case where the flow rate of the outdoor air going to the outside is equal to the flow rate of the indoor air going to the room.

  In the fifth aspect of the invention, the humidity detecting device is provided with the humidity detecting means (1). The reference condition in the present invention is satisfied when the detected value of the humidity detecting means (1) reaches a predetermined reference value. During the operation of the humidity control device, the humidity of the room air is detected by the humidity detection means (1). Then, when the detected value of the humidity detecting means (1) reaches a predetermined reference value, the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation.

  In the sixth aspect of the invention, the humidity control device is provided with temperature detection means. The reference condition in the present invention is satisfied when the detected value of the temperature detecting means reaches a predetermined reference value. During the operation of the humidity control device, the temperature of the room air is detected by the temperature detecting means, and when the detected value of the temperature detecting means reaches a predetermined reference value, the operation is switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation.

  Here, for example, in winter, the relative humidity remains substantially constant even if the temperature of the outdoor air varies. Therefore, in the circulation operation, when the outdoor air temperature is low, the absolute humidity is also low, the amount of moisture in the outdoor air adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) is reduced, and the temperature of the adsorption element (81, 82) is reduced. Does not rise. For this reason, in the adsorption element (81, 82), the humidification amount and the heating amount with respect to the air supplied to the room are reduced. And since the temperature of outdoor air is low, the temperature of room air rises only moderately, and since the absolute humidity of the air supplied indoors is low, the relative humidity of room air also rises only moderately.

  On the other hand, when the temperature of the outdoor air is high, the absolute humidity is also high, the amount of moisture in the outdoor air adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) increases, and the temperature of the adsorption element (81, 82) rises. For this reason, in the adsorption element (81, 82), the humidification amount and the heating amount with respect to the air supplied to the room increase. And since the temperature of outdoor air is high, the temperature of room air rises rapidly, and since the absolute humidity of the air supplied indoors is high, the relative humidity of room air also rises rapidly.

  Thus, the higher the temperature rise rate of the room air, the higher the relative humidity rise rate. Conversely, the lower the room air temperature rise rate, the lower the relative humidity rise rate. That is, there is a correlation between the temperature of the room air and the relative humidity, and both change in conjunction with each other. Therefore, the relative humidity of the room air can be estimated from the detection value of the temperature detection means. Therefore, in the present invention, when the detected value of the temperature detecting means reaches a predetermined reference value, it is determined that the relative humidity of the room air has reached the target value, and switching from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation is performed.

  In the seventh aspect, the humidity control device is provided with a timer. The reference condition in the present invention is satisfied when the elapsed time from the start time measured by the timer reaches a predetermined reference value. During the operation of the humidity controller, the elapsed time from the start is detected by the timer, and when the measured value of the timer reaches a predetermined reference value, the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation.

  Here, if a test is performed in advance under various operating conditions and the elapsed time from when the humidity control device starts up until the relative humidity of the room air reaches the target value is measured, it is based on the data obtained in that test. The elapsed time from the start time when the relative humidity of the room air is expected to reach the target value can be set as the reference value. Therefore, in the present invention, when the measured value of the timer reaches a predetermined reference value, it is determined that the relative humidity of the room air has reached the target value, and switching from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation is performed.

  In the first aspect of the invention, when the humidity control device is started, the circulation operation is first performed, and then the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation.

  Here, during the ventilation operation, outdoor air is conditioned by the humidity controller and then supplied to the room, so that the absolute humidity of the air supplied to the room is substantially constant. On the other hand, during the circulation operation, the indoor air is conditioned by the humidity control device and then sent back into the room, so that the absolute humidity of the air supplied to the room changes corresponding to the absolute humidity of the room air.

  For example, when supplying the air humidified by the humidity control apparatus to the room, if the absolute humidity of the room air gradually increases due to the operation of the humidity control apparatus, the absolute humidity of the air supplied to the room also increases accordingly. Further, when supplying the air dehumidified by the humidity control apparatus to the room, if the absolute humidity of the room air gradually decreases due to the operation of the humidity control apparatus, the absolute humidity of the air supplied to the room also decreases accordingly. For this reason, during the circulation operation, the change rate of the absolute humidity of the room air is higher than during the ventilation operation. Further, unlike the ventilation operation, the exhaust from the room to the outside is not performed during the circulation operation, and this also increases the rate of change in the absolute humidity of the room air.

  Therefore, according to the first invention in which the circulation operation is first performed at the time of startup, the time until the relative humidity of the room air reaches a predetermined target value is shortened compared to the case of performing the ventilation operation immediately after startup. Can do.

  In the second aspect of the invention, in the circulation operation, the flow rate of indoor air toward the room and the flow rate of outdoor air toward the outdoor are set to different values. Therefore, according to the present invention, the flow rates of the indoor air and the outdoor air passing through the humidity control device are suitable for shortening the time required for the relative humidity of the indoor air to reach a predetermined target value from the start of the humidity control device. It is possible to set to a different value.

  In the third aspect of the invention, in the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, the flow rate of the air toward the room is larger than the flow rate of the air toward the outside. That is, the flow rate of the air that is dehumidified and supplied into the room when passing through the adsorption element (81, 82) is larger than that in the case where the flow rate of the air that flows into the room is equal to the flow rate of the air that goes outside the room. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to sufficiently secure the flow rate of the air that is dehumidified and supplied to the room, and it is possible to further shorten the time until the relative humidity of the room air reaches the predetermined target value.

  In the fourth aspect of the invention, in the circulation operation during the humidifying operation, the flow rate of the air toward the outside is larger than the flow rate of the air toward the room. That is, the flow rate of the air that is humidified and supplied into the room when passing through the adsorption element (81, 82) is larger than that in the case where the flow rate of the air toward the outside is equal to the flow rate of the air toward the room. Therefore, according to the present invention, the flow rate of the air that is humidified and supplied to the room can be sufficiently secured, and the time until the relative humidity of the room air reaches the predetermined target value can be further shortened.

  According to the fifth aspect, when the detected value of the humidity detecting means (1) for detecting the humidity of the indoor air reaches a predetermined reference value, the operation is switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. Therefore, according to the present invention, the humidity detection means (1) can adjust the indoor humidity with high accuracy, and the indoor comfort can be maintained.

  According to the sixth aspect, when the detected value of the temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the indoor air reaches a predetermined reference value, the operation is switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. As described above, since there is a correlation between the temperature of the room air and the relative humidity, the relative humidity of the room air can be estimated from the detection value of the temperature detection means. Therefore, according to the present invention, the temperature detecting means can be used for determining whether to switch from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation.

  According to the seventh aspect of the invention, when the measurement value of the timer that measures the elapsed time from the start reaches the predetermined reference value, the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation. As described above, if the elapsed time from the start-up when the relative humidity of the indoor air is expected to reach the target value is set as a reference value by performing a test in advance, the relative humidity of the indoor air is estimated from the measured value of the timer. can do. Therefore, according to the present invention, the timer can be used to determine whether to switch from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1 of the Invention
The humidity control apparatus according to the present embodiment is configured to perform switching between a dehumidifying operation for supplying dehumidified air to the room and a humidifying operation for supplying the humidified air to the room. The humidity control apparatus includes a refrigerant circuit and two adsorbing elements (81, 82), and is configured to perform a so-called batch operation. Here, the configuration of the humidity control apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the description of the first embodiment, “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, “front”, and “back” refer to the humidity control apparatus shown in FIG. It means the one seen from the front side.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the humidity control apparatus includes a flat rectangular parallelepiped casing (10) having a low height. The casing (10) accommodates two adsorbing elements (81, 82) and a refrigerant circuit. 1A is a left side view, FIG. 1B is a plan view, and FIG. 1C is a right side view. This also applies to FIGS. 2 to 4 and FIGS.

  The refrigerant circuit includes a heating heat exchanger (102), a first heat source heat exchanger (103), a second heat source heat exchanger (104), a compressor (101), and an expansion valve. . In FIG. 1, only the heating heat exchanger (102), the first heat source heat exchanger (103), the second heat source heat exchanger (104), and the compressor (101) are illustrated. In this refrigerant circuit, the refrigeration cycle is performed by circulating the filled refrigerant. In the humidity control apparatus of the present embodiment, the operation in which the first heat source heat exchanger (103) serves as an evaporator and the operation in which the second heat source heat exchanger (104) serves as an evaporator are switched. Is called.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the adsorption element (81 82) is configured by alternately laminating flat plate members (83) and corrugated corrugated plate members (84). The corrugated plate members (84) are laminated so that the ridge line directions of the adjacent corrugated plate members (84) are shifted from each other by 90 degrees. And the adsorption | suction element (81,82) is formed in the rectangular parallelepiped shape thru | or square column shape as a whole.

  In the stacking direction of the flat plate member (83) and the corrugated plate member (84), the adsorbing element (81, 82) includes a humidity control side passage (85) and a cooling side passage (86) which The sections are alternately formed with a sandwich. In this adsorption element (81, 82), the humidity adjusting side passageway (85) opens on the long side surface of the flat plate member (83), and the cooling side passageway (86) on the short side surface of the flat plate member (83). ) Is open.

  In the adsorption element (81, 82), on the surface of the flat plate member (83) facing the humidity adjustment side passage (85) and on the surface of the corrugated plate member (84) provided in the humidity adjustment side passage (85), An adsorbent for adsorbing moisture is applied. Examples of this type of adsorbent include silica gel, zeolite, ion exchange resin and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the casing (10), the first panel (11) is provided on the foremost side, and the second panel (12) is provided on the innermost side. At the ends of the first panel (11) and the second panel (12), the right side surface portion (71) and the left side of the casing (10) are arranged so as to be orthogonal to the first panel (11) and the second panel (12). A surface portion (72) is provided.

  In the first panel (11), an exhaust port (14) is formed in the center portion on the right side, and an air supply port (16) is formed in the center portion on the left side. On the other hand, the second panel (12) has an outdoor inlet (13) formed in the lower part near the right end, and an indoor inlet (15) formed in the lower part near the left end.

  The interior of the casing (10) is partitioned into a downstream space (91) formed on the first panel (11) side and an upstream space (92) formed on the second panel (12) side.

  The downstream space (91) is divided into two spaces on the left and right. The first space (41) on the right side communicates with the outside through the exhaust port (14), and the compressor (101) of the refrigerant circuit, the exhaust fan (95) as the second fan, and the first A heat source heat exchanger (103) is installed. The second space (42) on the left side communicates with the outside through an air supply port (16), and an air supply fan (96) as a first fan and a second heat source heat exchanger (104) ) And are installed.

  The upstream space (92) is divided into three spaces on the left and right by the right partition plate (20) and the left partition plate (30) provided in parallel with the right side surface portion (71) and the left side surface portion (72) of the casing (10). It is divided into.

  The space between the right partition plate (20) and the right side surface portion (71) is partitioned into an upper right channel (65) on the upper side and a lower right channel (66) on the lower side. The upper right channel (65) communicates with the first space (41). The lower right channel (66) communicates with the outdoor suction port (13) and is partitioned from the first space (41).

  The space between the left partition plate (30) and the left side surface portion (72) is partitioned into an upper left upper channel (67) and a lower left lower channel (68). The upper left channel (67) communicates with the second space (42). The lower left channel (68) communicates with the indoor suction port (15) and is partitioned from the second space (42).

  Two adsorbing elements (81, 82) are installed in the space between the right partition plate (20) and the left partition plate (30). These adsorbing elements (81, 82) are arranged in a state where they are lined up and down at a predetermined interval. Specifically, the first adsorption element (81) is provided near the first panel (11) on the near side, and the second adsorption element (82) is provided near the second panel (12) on the back side. .

  The space between the right partition plate (20) and the left partition plate (30) includes a first channel (51), a second channel (52), a first upper channel (53), and a first lower channel ( 54), a second upper channel (55), a second lower channel (56), and a central channel (57).

  The first flow path (51) is formed on the front side of the first adsorption element (81) and communicates with the cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element (81). The second flow path (52) is formed on the back side of the second adsorption element (82) and communicates with the cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element (82).

  The first upper flow path (53) is formed on the upper side of the first adsorption element (81) and communicates with the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81). The first lower flow path (54) is formed below the first adsorption element (81) and communicates with the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81). The second upper flow path (55) is formed above the second adsorption element (82) and communicates with the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82). The second lower flow path (56) is formed below the second adsorption element (82) and communicates with the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the second adsorption element (82).

  The central flow path (57) is formed between the first adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) and communicates with the cooling side passageway (86) of both adsorption elements (81, 82). In the central flow path (57), the heat exchanger (102) for heating is installed in a state of standing substantially vertically. The heating heat exchanger (102) causes the air flowing through the central flow path (57) to exchange heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit. The heating heat exchanger (102) functions as a condenser and constitutes a heater for heating the air.

  A first shutter (61) is provided in a partition between the central channel (57) and the first lower channel (54). On the other hand, a second shutter (62) is provided in a partition between the central channel (57) and the second lower channel (56). Both the first shutter (61) and the second shutter (62) are configured to be openable and closable.

  The right partition plate (20) includes a first right opening (21), a second right opening (22), a first upper right opening (23), a first lower right opening (24), a second upper right opening (25) and A second lower right opening (26) is formed. Each of these openings (21, 22,...) Has an open / close shutter.

  The first right opening (21) is provided in the lower part on the near side of the right partition plate (20), and connects the first flow path (51) and the right lower flow path (66). The second right opening (22) is provided in the lower part on the back side of the right partition plate (20), and communicates the second flow path (52) and the right lower flow path (66).

  The first upper right opening (23) is provided in an upper part of the right partition plate (20) adjacent to the first adsorption element (81), and includes a first upper channel (53) and an upper right channel (65). To communicate. The first lower right opening (24) is provided in the lower part of the right partition plate (20) adjacent to the first adsorption element (81), and the first lower channel (54) and the lower right channel (66). ).

  The second upper right opening (25) is provided in an upper part of the right partition plate (20) adjacent to the second adsorption element (82), and includes a second upper channel (55) and an upper right channel (65). To communicate. The second lower right opening (26) is provided in a lower portion of the right partition plate (20) adjacent to the second adsorption element (82), and is provided with a second lower flow path (56) and a right lower flow path (66). ).

  The left partition plate (30) includes a first left opening (31), a second left opening (32), a first upper left opening (33), a first lower left opening (34), a second upper left opening (35), and a first 2 A lower left opening (36) is formed. Each of these openings (31, 32,...) Has an open / close shutter.

  The first left opening (31) is provided in the lower part on the near side of the left partition plate (30), and connects the first channel (51) and the left lower channel (68). The second left side opening (32) is provided in the lower part on the back side of the left partition plate (30), and connects the second channel (52) and the lower left channel (68).

  The first upper left opening (33) is provided in an upper part of the left partition plate (30) adjacent to the first adsorption element (81), and includes a first upper channel (53) and an upper left channel (67). To communicate. The first lower left opening (34) is provided in a lower portion of the left partition plate (30) adjacent to the first adsorption element (81), and includes a first lower channel (54) and a lower left channel (68). To communicate.

  The second upper left opening (35) is provided in the upper part of the left partition plate (30) adjacent to the second adsorption element (82), and the second upper channel (55) and the upper left channel (67). To communicate. The second lower left opening (36) is provided at a lower portion of the left partition plate (30) adjacent to the second adsorption element (82), and includes a second lower channel (56) and a lower left channel (68). To communicate.

  The humidity control apparatus of the present embodiment is provided with a humidity sensor (1) as humidity detection means. This humidity sensor (1) is for detecting the relative humidity of room air (RA), and is provided in the casing (10) in the vicinity of the indoor inlet (15).

  The humidity control apparatus is configured to perform a circulation operation of taking in outdoor air (OA) and discharging it outside the room and taking in indoor air (RA) and supplying it to the room at the time of activation. In the circulation operation during the humidification operation, the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95) is set higher than the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96), and the amount of outdoor air (OA) discharged outside the room air (RA) It is set larger than the supply amount to the room. Also, in the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, the rotation speed of the air supply fan (96) is set higher than the rotation speed of the exhaust fan (95), contrary to the circulation operation during the humidification operation, and the room air (RA) The amount of indoor air supplied is set to be larger than the amount of outdoor air (OA) discharged outside the room.

  On the other hand, the humidity control apparatus is configured to switch from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation when a predetermined reference condition is satisfied during the circulation operation. Specifically, the humidity control apparatus is configured to switch from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation when the detection value of the humidity sensor (1) reaches a predetermined reference value.

  In the ventilation operation of the humidifying operation and the dehumidifying operation, an operation of taking in indoor air (RA) and discharging it to the outside and taking in outdoor air (OA) and supplying it to the room is performed. In this ventilation operation, the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95) and the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96) are set to be equal, and the amount of indoor air (RA) discharged to the outside and the outdoor air (OA) indoors. Is set to be equal to the supply amount.

-Driving action-
The operation of the humidity control apparatus will be described. This humidity control apparatus performs switching between a humidifying operation for humidifying the air supplied to the room and a dehumidifying operation for dehumidifying the air supplied to the room. In addition, the humidity control apparatus supplies a circulation operation for supplying indoor air (RA) to the room and exhausting outdoor air (OA) to the outside in each operation of the humidifying operation and dehumidifying operation, and the outdoor air (OA) to the room. And switching between ventilation operation to discharge indoor air (RA) to the outside.

<Humidification operation>
In the humidification operation, in the refrigerant circuit, the heating heat exchanger (102) serves as a condenser, the first heat source heat exchanger (103) serves as an evaporator, and the second heat source heat exchanger (104) is suspended. doing. In the humidification operation, the first operation for performing the adsorption operation of the first adsorption element (81) and the regeneration operation for the second adsorption element (82), the adsorption operation of the second adsorption element (82), and the first adsorption element. The second operation for performing the reproduction operation (81) is repeated alternately.

~ Circulating operation ~
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, when the exhaust fan (95) is driven, the outdoor air (OA) passes through the outdoor suction port (13) to the first lower air flow path (66) in the casing (10). Is taken in as. On the other hand, when the air supply fan (96) is driven, the room air (RA) is taken as the second air into the lower left channel (68) in the casing (10) through the room-side suction port (15).

(First operation)
A first operation of the circulation operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 6.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the right partition plate (20), the first upper right opening (23) and the first lower right opening (24) are in communication, and the remaining openings (21, 22, 25, 26) are in communication. Blocked state. In the left partition plate (30), the first left opening (31) and the second upper left opening (35) are in communication, and the remaining openings (32, 33, 34, 36) are in a blocking state. The first shutter (61) is in a closed state, and the second shutter (62) is in an open state.

  The first air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the first lower right opening (24) to the first lower channel (54). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the first left opening (31) to the first channel (51).

  As shown in FIG. 6, the first air in the first lower flow path (54) flows into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81). While flowing through the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture contained in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The first air deprived of moisture by the first adsorption element (81) flows into the first upper flow path (53).

  On the other hand, the second air in the first flow path (51) flows into the cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element (81), and moisture is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the humidity adjustment side passage (85). Absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in The second air deprived of heat of adsorption flows into the central flow path (57) and is heated while passing through the heating heat exchanger (102). Thereafter, the second air flows from the central channel (57) into the second lower channel (56).

  The second air heated by the first adsorption element (81) and the heating heat exchanger (102) is introduced into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the second adsorption element (82). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), the adsorbent is heated by the second air, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent. The second air humidified by the second adsorption element (82) flows into the second upper flow path (55).

  The second air flowing into the second upper flow path (55) flows into the upper left flow path (67) through the second upper left opening (35), and then is supplied through the second space (42). Supplied indoors through mouth (16).

  On the other hand, the first air flowing into the first upper flow path (53) flows into the upper right flow path (65) through the first upper right opening (23), and then flows into the first space (41). . The first air exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the first heat source heat exchanger (103), and then is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (14).

(Second operation)
The second operation of the circulation operation will be described with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in the right partition plate (20), the second upper right opening (25) and the second lower right opening (26) are in communication, and the remaining openings (21, 22, 23, 24) are connected. Blocked state. In the left partition plate (30), the second left opening (32) and the first upper left opening (33) are in communication with each other, and the remaining openings (31, 34, 35, 36) are in a blocking state. The first shutter (61) is in an open state, and the second shutter (62) is in a closed state.

  The first air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the second lower right opening (26) to the second lower channel (56). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the second left opening (32) into the second channel (52).

  As shown in FIG. 7, the first air in the second lower flow path (56) flows into the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82). While flowing through the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture contained in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The first air deprived of moisture by the second adsorption element (82) flows into the second upper flow path (55).

  On the other hand, the second air in the second flow path (52) flows into the cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element (82), and moisture is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the humidity adjustment side passage (85). Absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in The second air deprived of heat of adsorption flows into the central flow path (57) and is heated while passing through the heating heat exchanger (102). Thereafter, the second air flows from the central channel (57) into the first lower channel (54).

  The second air heated by the second adsorption element (82) and the heating heat exchanger (102) is introduced into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), the adsorbent is heated by the second air, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent. The second air humidified by the first adsorption element (81) flows into the first upper flow path (53).

  The second air that has flowed into the first upper flow path (53) flows into the upper left flow path (67) through the first upper left opening (33), and then is supplied through the second space (42). Supplied indoors through mouth (16).

  On the other hand, the first air flowing into the second upper channel (55) flows into the upper right channel (65) through the second upper right opening (25), and then flows into the first space (41). . The first air exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the first heat source heat exchanger (103), and then is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (14).

~ Ventilation action ~
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the air supply fan (96) is driven, the outdoor air (OA) passes through the outdoor air inlet (13) to the lower right channel (66) in the casing (10). It is taken in as air. On the other hand, when the exhaust fan (95) is driven, the indoor air (RA) is taken as the first air into the lower left flow path (68) in the casing (10) through the indoor suction port (15).

(First operation)
A first operation of the ventilation operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 6.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the right partition plate (20), the first right opening (21) and the first upper right opening (23) are in communication, and the remaining openings (22, 24, 25, 26) are blocked. It is in a state. In the left partition plate (30), the first lower left opening (34) and the second upper left opening (35) are in communication, and the remaining openings (31, 32, 33, 36) are in a blocked state. The first shutter (61) is in a closed state, and the second shutter (62) is in an open state.

  The first air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the first lower left opening (34) into the first lower channel (54). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the first right opening (21) into the first channel (51).

  As shown in FIG. 6, the first air in the first lower flow path (54) is deprived of moisture while flowing through the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the first adsorption element (81), and then the first air It flows into the upper channel (53). On the other hand, the second air in the first flow path (51) absorbs heat of adsorption while flowing through the cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element (81), and then flows into the central flow path (57). Then, it is heated while passing through the heating heat exchanger (102) and then flows into the second lower flow path (56). Subsequently, the second air is introduced from the second lower flow path (56) into the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82), is given moisture desorbed from the adsorbent and is humidified, Thereafter, it flows into the second upper flow path (55).

  The second air flowing into the second upper flow path (55) flows into the upper left flow path (67) through the second upper left opening (35), and then is supplied through the second space (42). Supplied indoors through mouth (16).

  On the other hand, the first air flowing into the first upper flow path (53) flows into the upper right flow path (65) through the first upper right opening (23), and then flows into the first space (41). . The first air exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the first heat source heat exchanger (103), and then is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (14).

(Second operation)
The second operation of the ventilation operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 7.

  As shown in FIG. 4, in the right partition plate (20), the second right opening (22) and the second upper right opening (25) are in communication, and the remaining openings (21, 23, 24, 26) are blocked. It is in a state. In the left partition plate (30), the first upper left opening (33) and the second lower left opening (36) are in communication, and the remaining openings (31, 32, 34, 35) are in a blocked state. The first shutter (61) is in an open state, and the second shutter (62) is in a closed state.

  The first air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the second lower left opening (36) to the second lower channel (56). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the second right opening (22) into the second channel (52).

  As shown also in FIG. 7, the first air in the second lower flow path (56) is deprived of moisture while flowing through the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82), and then the second air It flows into the upper channel (55). On the other hand, the second air in the second flow path (52) absorbs heat of adsorption while flowing through the cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element (82), and then flows into the central flow path (57). Then, it is heated while passing through the heat exchanger for heating (102) and then flows into the first lower flow path (54). Subsequently, the second air is introduced from the first lower flow path (54) to the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the first adsorption element (81), is given moisture desorbed from the adsorbent and is humidified, Thereafter, it flows into the first upper flow path (53).

  The second air that has flowed into the first upper flow path (53) flows into the upper left flow path (67) through the first upper left opening (33), and then is supplied through the second space (42). Supplied indoors through mouth (16).

  On the other hand, the first air flowing into the second upper channel (55) flows into the upper right channel (65) through the second upper right opening (25), and then flows into the first space (41). . The first air exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the first heat source heat exchanger (103), and then is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (14).

<Dehumidifying operation>
In the dehumidifying operation, in the refrigerant circuit, the heating heat exchanger (102) serves as a condenser and the second heat source heat exchanger (104) serves as an evaporator, while the first heat source heat exchanger (103) is suspended. doing. In the dehumidifying operation, the first operation for performing the adsorption operation of the first adsorption element (81) and the regeneration operation for the second adsorption element (82), the adsorption operation of the second adsorption element (82), and the first adsorption element. The second operation for performing the reproduction operation (81) is repeated alternately.

~ Circulating operation ~
As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, when the exhaust fan (95) is driven, the outdoor air (OA) passes through the outdoor suction port (13) to the second lower air flow channel (66) in the casing (10). Is taken in as. On the other hand, when the air supply fan (96) is driven, the indoor air (RA) is taken as the first air into the lower left channel (68) in the casing (10) through the indoor suction port (15).

(First operation)
The first operation of the circulation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the right partition plate (20), the first right opening (21) and the second upper right opening (25) are in communication, and the remaining openings (22, 23, 24, 26) are blocked. It is in a state. In the left partition plate (30), the first upper left opening (33) and the first lower left opening (34) are in communication, and the remaining openings (31, 32, 35, 36) are in a blocked state. The first shutter (61) is in a closed state, and the second shutter (62) is in an open state.

  The first air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the first lower left opening (34) into the first lower channel (54). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the first right opening (21) into the first channel (51).

  The first air in the first lower flow path (54) flows into the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the first adsorption element (81). While flowing through the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture contained in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The first air dehumidified by the first adsorption element (81) flows into the first upper flow path (53).

  On the other hand, the second air in the first flow path (51) flows into the cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element (81), and moisture is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the humidity adjustment side passage (85). Absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in The second air deprived of heat of adsorption flows into the central flow path (57) and is heated while passing through the heating heat exchanger (102). Thereafter, the second air flows from the central channel (57) into the second lower channel (56).

  The second air heated by the first adsorption element (81) and the heating heat exchanger (102) is introduced into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the second adsorption element (82). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), the adsorbent is heated by the second air, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent. The moisture desorbed from the adsorbent flows into the second upper flow path (55) together with the second air.

  The dehumidified first air flowing into the first upper channel (53) flows into the upper left channel (67) through the first upper left opening (33) and then into the second space (42). Inflow. The first air is cooled by exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the second heat source heat exchanger (104), and then supplied to the room through the air supply port (16).

  On the other hand, the second air flowing into the second upper channel (55) flows into the upper right channel (65) through the second upper right opening (25), and then passes through the first space (41). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (14).

(Second operation)
The second operation of the circulation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the right partition plate (20), the second right opening (22) and the first upper right opening (23) are in communication, and the remaining openings (21, 24, 25, 26) are blocked. It is in a state. In the left partition plate (30), the second upper left opening (35) and the second lower left opening (36) are in communication with each other, and the remaining openings (31, 32, 33, 34) are in a blocked state. The first shutter (61) is in an open state, and the second shutter (62) is in a closed state.

  The first air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the second lower left opening (36) to the second lower channel (56). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the second right opening (22) into the second channel (52).

  The first air in the second lower flow path (56) flows into the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82). While flowing through the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture contained in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The first air dehumidified by the second adsorption element (82) flows into the second upper flow path (55).

  On the other hand, the second air in the second flow path (52) flows into the cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element (82), and moisture is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the humidity adjustment side passage (85). Absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in The second air deprived of heat of adsorption flows into the central flow path (57) and is heated while passing through the heating heat exchanger (102). Thereafter, the second air flows from the central channel (57) into the first lower channel (54).

  The second air heated by the second adsorption element (82) and the heating heat exchanger (102) is introduced into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), the adsorbent is heated by the second air, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent. The moisture desorbed from the adsorbent flows into the first upper flow path (53) together with the second air.

  The dehumidified first air that has flowed into the second upper flow path (55) flows into the upper left flow path (67) through the second upper left opening (35), and then into the second space (42). Inflow. The first air is cooled by exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the second heat source heat exchanger (104), and then supplied to the room through the air supply port (16).

  On the other hand, the second air flowing into the first upper channel (53) flows into the upper right channel (65) through the first upper right opening (23), and then passes through the first space (41). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (14).

~ Ventilation action ~
As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, when the air supply fan (96) is driven, the outdoor air (OA) passes through the outdoor suction port (13) to the lower right channel (66) in the casing (10). It is taken in as air. On the other hand, when the exhaust fan (95) is driven, the indoor air (RA) is taken as the second air into the lower left channel (68) in the casing (10) through the indoor suction port (15).

(First operation)
The first operation of the ventilation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the right partition plate (20), the first lower right opening (24) and the second upper right opening (25) are in communication, and the remaining openings (21, 22, 23, 26) are in communication. Blocked state. In the left partition plate (30), the first left opening (31) and the first upper left opening (33) are in communication with each other, and the remaining openings (32, 34, 35, 36) are in a blocking state. The first shutter (61) is in a closed state, and the second shutter (62) is in an open state.

  The first air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the first lower right opening (24) to the first lower channel (54). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the first left opening (31) to the first channel (51).

  The first air in the first lower flow path (54) is dehumidified and dehumidified while flowing through the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the first adsorption element (81), and then the first upper flow path ( 53). On the other hand, the second air in the first flow path (51) absorbs heat of adsorption while flowing through the cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element (81), and then flows into the central flow path (57). Then, it is heated while passing through the heating heat exchanger (102) and then flows into the second lower flow path (56). Subsequently, the second air is introduced from the second lower flow path (56) into the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82), is given moisture desorbed from the adsorbent, and then the second air is added. 2 Flows into the upper channel (55).

  The dehumidified first air flowing into the first upper channel (53) flows into the upper left channel (67) through the first upper left opening (33) and then into the second space (42). Inflow. The first air is cooled by exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the second heat source heat exchanger (104), and then supplied to the room through the air supply port (16).

  On the other hand, the second air flowing into the second upper channel (55) flows into the upper right channel (65) through the second upper right opening (25), and then passes through the first space (41). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (14).

(Second operation)
The second operation of the ventilation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the right partition plate (20), the first upper right opening (23) and the second lower right opening (26) are in communication, and the remaining openings (21, 22, 24, 25) are in communication. Blocked state. In the left partition plate (30), the second left opening (32) and the second upper left opening (35) are in communication, and the remaining openings (31, 33, 34, 36) are in a blocking state. The first shutter (61) is in an open state, and the second shutter (62) is in a closed state.

  The first air flows from the lower right channel (66) through the second lower right opening (26) to the second lower channel (56). On the other hand, the second air flows from the lower left channel (68) through the second left opening (32) into the second channel (52).

  The first air in the second lower flow path (56) is dehumidified and dehumidified while flowing through the humidity adjusting side passage (85) of the second adsorption element (82), and then the second upper flow path ( 55). On the other hand, the second air in the second flow path (52) absorbs heat of adsorption while flowing through the cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element (82), and then flows into the central flow path (57). Then, it is heated while passing through the heat exchanger for heating (102) and then flows into the first lower flow path (54). Subsequently, the second air is introduced from the first lower flow path (54) to the humidity adjustment side passage (85) of the first adsorption element (81), is given moisture desorbed from the adsorbent, and then the second air is added. 1 Flows into the upper flow path (53).

  The dehumidified first air that has flowed into the second upper flow path (55) flows into the upper left flow path (67) through the second upper left opening (35), and then into the second space (42). Inflow. The first air is cooled by exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the second heat source heat exchanger (104), and then supplied to the room through the air supply port (16).

  On the other hand, the second air flowing into the first upper channel (53) flows into the upper right channel (65) through the first upper right opening (23), and then passes through the first space (41). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (14).

-Operation control at startup-
When the humidity control device is started, a circulation operation is first performed. This circulation operation is performed in order to shorten the time required for the relative humidity of the room air (RA) to reach a predetermined target value. In the humidity control apparatus, when the relative humidity of the room air (RA) reaches the target value during the circulation operation, switching to the ventilation operation is performed.

<Humidification operation>
In the circulation operation during the humidifying operation, the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95) is set higher than the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96). That is, in this circulation operation, the air volume of outdoor air (RA) taken in as the first air is larger than the air volume of indoor air (SA) taken in as the second air. For this reason, during the circulation operation, the amount of water in the first air adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) increases as compared with the case where the air volume of the first air and the air volume of the second air are equal. Since the moisture adsorbed on the adsorption element (81 82) is imparted to the second air, the humidification amount for the second air increases. In the circulation operation, the air volume ratio of the first air to the second air is set within a predetermined range. This point will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 12, the horizontal axis represents the air volume ratio, and the vertical axis represents the elapsed time ratio. The air volume ratio is the ratio of the air volume of the first air to the air volume of the second air. Elapsed time ratio means different airflow ratios when the time from when the humidity controller is activated when the airflow ratio is set to 100% until the relative humidity of the indoor air (RA) reaches the target value is used as the reference value. The elapsed time is expressed as a ratio to the reference value.

  Further, the data shown in FIG. 12 shows the air flow rate ratio and elapsed time until the indoor air (RA) becomes 20 ° C./40 RH% when the outside air condition is 0 ° C./50 RH% in the humidity control apparatus of this embodiment. It represents the relationship with the ratio. As shown in the figure, the elapsed time ratio when the air volume of the first air and the air volume of the second air are set equal is 100%. On the other hand, when the air volume ratio increases, the elapsed time ratio decreases. This is because if the air volume of the first air is larger than the air volume of the second air, the amount of moisture in the first air adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) increases and the amount of humidification for the second air increases. .

  Regarding the above data, when the air volume ratio is 100% or more and less than 120%, the elapsed time ratio decreases as the air volume ratio increases. By setting the air volume of the first air larger than the air volume of the second air, the amount of moisture in the first air adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) increases and the amount of humidification for the second air increases. It is.

  On the other hand, when the air volume ratio is approximately 120% or more, the elapsed time ratio does not decrease so much even if the air volume ratio increases. The flow rate of the first air passing through the adsorbing element (81, 82) increases, and the moisture in the first air becomes difficult to be adsorbed by the adsorbing element (81, 82). This is because the amount of water adsorbed on the adsorption element (81, 82) does not increase even if it is set larger than this.

  In other words, the humidification amount for the second air does not increase when the air flow rate ratio is increased to a certain extent, and as a result, the elapsed time ratio does not decrease too much. On the other hand, if the air flow ratio is too large, the amount of power for driving the exhaust fan (95) will increase. Therefore, during the circulation operation, the rotation speed of the air supply fan (96) and the rotation speed of the exhaust fan (95) are set so that the air volume ratio is 100% or more and less than 130%. Further, the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96) and the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95) are preferably set so that the air volume ratio is 100% or more and less than 120%, and the air volume ratio is about 110%. It is most desirable to set so that

  On the other hand, when the detected value of the humidity sensor (1) reaches a predetermined reference value (here, relative humidity of 40%) during the circulation operation of the humidity control device, the operation is switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. In the ventilation operation, the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96) is set equal to the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95), and the second air having an air volume equal to the first air is taken into the casing (10).

<Dehumidifying operation>
In the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, the rotation speed of the air supply fan (96) is set higher than the rotation speed of the exhaust fan (95). That is, in this circulation operation, the air volume of outdoor air (RA) taken in as the first air is larger than the air volume of indoor air (SA) taken in as the second air.

  During the circulation operation, as the air volume ratio of the first air to the second air increases, the amount of water in the first air adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) increases. On the other hand, when the air volume ratio is above a certain level, the flow rate of the first air passing through the adsorption element (81, 82) increases and the moisture in the first air becomes difficult to be adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82). In addition, the amount of water adsorbed on the adsorption elements (81, 82) does not increase beyond that. In other words, the dehumidification amount with respect to the first air does not increase when the air flow rate ratio is increased to a certain extent, and as a result, the elapsed time ratio does not decrease too much. For this reason, in the circulation operation, the air volume ratio is set within a predetermined range.

  During the circulation operation, in the dehumidifying operation, the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96) and the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95) are set so that the air volume ratio is 100% or more and less than 130%, as in the humidifying operation. The Further, the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96) and the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95) are preferably set so that the air volume ratio is 100% or more and less than 120%, and the air volume ratio is about 110%. It is most desirable to set so that

  On the other hand, when the detected value of the humidity sensor (1) reaches a predetermined reference value (here, the relative humidity is 47%) during the circulation operation of the humidity control device, the operation is switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. In the ventilation operation, the rotational speed of the air supply fan (96) is set equal to the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (95), and the second air having an air volume equal to the first air is taken into the casing (10).

-Effect of Embodiment 1-
In this embodiment, when starting the humidity control device, the circulation operation is first performed, and then the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation.

  Here, during the ventilation operation, outdoor air (OA) is conditioned by the humidity controller and then supplied to the room, so that the absolute humidity of the air (SA) supplied to the room is substantially constant. On the other hand, during the circulation operation, the indoor air (RA) is conditioned by the humidity controller and then sent back to the room, so the absolute humidity of the air (SA) supplied to the room is the absolute value of the room air (RA). Varies with humidity.

  For example, when supplying the humidified second air into the room, if the absolute humidity of the room air (RA) gradually increases due to the operation of the humidity controller, the second air supplied to the room is accordingly increased. Absolute humidity also increases. In addition, when supplying the first air dehumidified by the humidity control device to the room, if the absolute humidity of the indoor air (RA) gradually decreases due to the operation of the humidity control device, the first air supplied to the room is accordingly reduced. Absolute humidity also decreases. For this reason, during the circulation operation, the change rate of the absolute humidity of the room air (RA) is higher than that during the ventilation operation. Further, unlike the ventilation operation, the exhaust from the room to the outside is not performed during the circulation operation, and this also increases the rate of change of the absolute humidity of the room air (RA).

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment in which the circulation operation is first performed at the time of activation, the time until the relative humidity of the room air (RA) reaches a predetermined target value is shortened compared to the case where the ventilation operation is performed immediately after the activation. be able to.

  In the present embodiment, in the circulation operation, the flow rate of the indoor air (RA) going indoors and the flow rate of the outdoor air (OA) going outdoor are set to different values. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the flow rates of the indoor air (RA) and the outdoor air (OA) that pass through the humidity control device are set so that the relative humidity of the indoor air (RA) from the start of the humidity control device is a predetermined target value. It is possible to set a value suitable for shortening the time required to reach the value.

  In the present embodiment, in the circulation operation during the dehumidifying operation, the flow rate of the first air toward the room is larger than the flow rate of the second air toward the outdoors. That is, when the flow rate of the first air that is dehumidified and supplied into the room when passing through the adsorption element (81, 82) is equal to the flow rate of the second air that goes outside the room, More than that. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the flow rate of the first air that is dehumidified and supplied to the room can be sufficiently secured, and the time until the relative humidity of the room air (RA) reaches the predetermined target value is further shortened. be able to.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in the circulation operation during the humidifying operation, the flow rate of the first air toward the outdoor is larger than the flow rate of the second air toward the indoor. That is, when the flow rate of the second air that is humidified and supplied to the room when passing through the adsorption element (81, 82) is equal to the flow rate of the second air that is directed indoors. More than that. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the flow rate of the second air that is humidified and supplied to the room can be sufficiently secured, and the time until the relative humidity of the room air (RA) reaches a predetermined target value is further shortened. be able to.

  According to the present embodiment, when the detected value of the humidity sensor (1) that detects the relative humidity of the room air (RA) reaches a predetermined reference value, the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the humidity sensor (1) can adjust the indoor humidity with high accuracy, and the indoor comfort can be maintained.

-Modification 1 of Embodiment 1-
In the humidity control apparatus of the first embodiment, the configuration of the humidity control apparatus may be changed. Here, this modification will be described with respect to differences from the first embodiment.

  The humidity control apparatus of this modification is provided with a temperature sensor (not shown) as temperature detection means instead of the humidity sensor (1) for detecting the relative humidity of the room air (RA). This temperature sensor is for detecting the temperature of indoor air (RA), and is provided in the vicinity of the indoor inlet (15) in the casing (10).

  In the humidity controller, the temperature of the room air (RA) taken into the casing (10) is detected by a temperature sensor. In the humidity control apparatus, in each of the humidifying operation and the dehumidifying operation, the circulation operation is performed at the time of activation, and when a predetermined reference condition is established during the circulation operation, the operation is switched to the ventilation operation. Specifically, when the detected value of the temperature sensor reaches a predetermined reference value during the circulation operation, the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation.

  Here, for example, in winter, even if the temperature of the outdoor air (OA) varies, the relative humidity is about 80%. Therefore, in the circulation operation, when the outdoor air (OA) temperature is low, the absolute humidity is also low, and the amount of moisture in the outdoor air (OA) adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) on the adsorption side is reduced. The temperature of the adsorption element (81, 82) does not rise. Therefore, the heating amount for the air (SA) supplied to the room in the adsorption element (81, 82) on the adsorption side and the humidification amount for the air (SA) supplied to the room in the adsorption element (81, 82) on the regeneration side Less. And since the temperature of outdoor air (OA) is low, the temperature of room air (RA) rises only moderately, and since the absolute humidity of the air (SA) supplied indoors is low, Relative humidity rises only slowly.

  On the other hand, when the temperature of the outdoor air (OA) is high, the absolute humidity is also high, and the amount of moisture in the outdoor air (OA) adsorbed by the adsorption element (81, 82) on the adsorption side increases, and this adsorption element (81 , 82) rises. Therefore, the heating amount for the air (SA) supplied to the room in the adsorption element (81, 82) on the adsorption side and the humidification amount for the air (SA) supplied to the room in the adsorption element (81, 82) on the regeneration side Will increase. And since the temperature of outdoor air (OA) is high, the temperature of indoor air (RA) rises quickly, and the relative humidity of indoor air (RA) is high because the absolute humidity of air (SA) supplied to the room is high. Will rise quickly.

  Thus, if the temperature rise rate of the indoor air (RA) is high, the relative humidity rise rate is also high. Conversely, if the temperature rise rate of the room air (RA) is low, the relative humidity rise rate is low. Become. That is, there is a correlation between the temperature of the indoor air (RA) and the relative humidity, and both change in conjunction with each other. Therefore, the relative humidity of room air (RA) can be estimated from the detected value of the temperature sensor. Therefore, by setting the predetermined reference value to a value at which the relative humidity of the room air (RA) becomes a target value (40% during the humidifying operation and 47% during the dehumidifying operation), the relative humidity of the room air (RA) is set as the target. When the value is reached, the operation can be switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation.

  Further, a database may be provided in the humidity control apparatus, and the reference value may be changed using this database. As described above, when the temperature of the indoor air (RA) taken in is low, the temperature of the air (SA) supplied to the room is low, and the temperature rising rate of the room air (RA) is low. Moreover, if the temperature of the taken-in indoor air (RA) is high, the temperature of the air (SA) supplied indoors will be high, and the temperature rising rate of the indoor air (RA) will be high. For this reason, a database for setting a reference value based on temperature data of air (SA) and room air (RA) supplied to the room is provided in the humidity controller, and air (SA) and room By measuring the temperature of air (RA) with a temperature sensor and setting a reference value, the relative humidity of room air (RA) can be estimated with high accuracy.

  In this modification, when the detected value of the temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the indoor air (RA) reaches a predetermined reference value, the operation is switched from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. As described above, since there is a correlation between the temperature of the room air (RA) and the relative humidity, the relative humidity of the room air (RA) can be estimated from the detection value of the temperature sensor. Therefore, according to this modification, a temperature sensor can be used to determine whether to switch from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation. In addition, when the temperature sensor is used for determining whether to switch from the ventilation operation to the circulation operation, the cost of components can be reduced as compared with the case where the humidity sensor (1) is used.

-Modification 2 of Embodiment 1
In the humidity control apparatus of the first embodiment, the configuration of the humidity control apparatus may be changed. Here, this modification will be described with respect to differences from the first embodiment.

  In the humidity control apparatus of this modification, a timer (not shown) is provided in place of the humidity sensor (1) for detecting the relative humidity of the room air (RA). This timer is for measuring the elapsed time from the startup of the humidity control device.

  In the humidity control apparatus, in each of the humidifying operation and the dehumidifying operation, the circulation operation is performed at the time of activation, and when a predetermined reference condition is satisfied during the circulation operation, the operation is switched to the ventilation operation. Specifically, when the measured value of the timer reaches a predetermined reference value during the circulation operation, the humidity control device switches from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation.

  Here, tests are performed under various operating conditions in advance, and the elapsed time from when the humidity control device starts up until the relative humidity of the room air (RA) reaches the target value (40% during humidification operation and 47% during dehumidification operation). Can be set as a reference value based on the data obtained in the test, the elapsed time from the start-up when the relative humidity of the room air (RA) is expected to reach the target value.

  In this modification, when the measured value of the timer that measures the elapsed time from the start reaches a predetermined reference value, the circulation operation is switched to the ventilation operation. As described above, if a test is performed in advance and the elapsed time from the start-up when the relative humidity of the room air (RA) is expected to reach the target value is set as the reference value, the room air (RA) is measured according to the measured value of the timer. ) Relative humidity can be estimated. Therefore, according to this modification, a timer can be used to determine whether to switch from the circulation operation to the ventilation operation.

<< Embodiment 2 of the Invention >>
Embodiment 2 of this invention changes the structure of the humidity control apparatus of the said Embodiment 1. FIG. Here, the difference between the present embodiment and the first embodiment will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in the humidity control apparatus of this embodiment, the heat exchanger (102) for heating the refrigerant circuit is installed in a state where it is laid almost horizontally in the central flow path (57). The heating heat exchanger (102) is disposed at a height such that the upper surface thereof substantially coincides with the lower surfaces of the first adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82). Further, a first shutter (61) and a second shutter (62) are provided on both sides of the heating heat exchanger (102).

<< Embodiment 3 of the Invention >>
Embodiment 3 of this invention changes the structure of the humidity control apparatus of the said Embodiment 1. FIG. Here, the difference between the present embodiment and the first embodiment will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, the humidity control apparatus of the present embodiment includes a third shutter (63) and a fourth shutter (64) in addition to the first shutter (61) and the second shutter (62). Is provided.

  The third shutter (63) is for partitioning the first flow path (51) and the first lower flow path (54). The fourth shutter (64) is for partitioning the second flow path (52) and the second lower flow path (56). The third shutter (63) and the fourth shutter (64) are both configured to be openable and closable.

  In the humidity control apparatus of this embodiment, the first operation for performing the adsorption operation for the first adsorption element (81) and the regeneration operation for the second adsorption element (82), and the adsorption for the second adsorption element (82). The operation and the second operation for performing the regeneration operation for the first adsorption element (81) are switched. In addition, although the humidity control apparatus of this embodiment performs humidification operation and dehumidification operation by switching the flow path of 1st air and 2nd air, only humidification operation is demonstrated here and description is abbreviate | omitted about dehumidification operation. .

(First operation)
As shown in FIG. 14, in the first operation, the first, third and fourth shutters (61, 63, 64) are in a closed state, and the second shutter (62) is in an open state.

  In the first air that has flowed into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81), the moisture contained therein is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The first air from which moisture has been removed by the first adsorption element (81) passes through the first heat source heat exchanger (103) and is then discharged outside the room. On the other hand, the second air flowing into the (81) cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in the humidity adjustment side passage (85) and is heated by the heat exchanger (102) for heating. Then, it flows into the humidity control side passageway (85) of the second adsorption element (82) through the second shutter (62). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the second air is given to the second air. The second air humidified by the second adsorption element (82) is supplied to the room after passing through the second heat source heat exchanger (104).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, it is possible to regenerate after changing the shutter to be opened and closed and heating the second adsorption element (82). In this case, the first, second and third shutters (61, 62, 63) are closed, and the fourth shutter (64) is opened.

  The second air flowing into the cooling side passage (86) of the first adsorption element (81) absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in the humidity adjustment side passage (85) and is heated by the heating heat exchanger (102). Later, it flows into the cooling side passageway (86) of the second adsorption element (82). The second air that has passed through the cooling side passage (86) once flows out into the second passage (52), and then passes through the fourth shutter (64) to the humidity adjustment side passage ( 85). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the second air is given to the second air. The second air humidified by the second adsorption element (82) is supplied to the room after passing through the second heat source heat exchanger (104).

(Second operation)
As shown in FIG. 16, in the second operation, the second, third, and fourth shutters (62, 63, 64) are in the closed state, and the first shutter (61) is in the open state.

  In the first air that has flowed into the humidity adjustment side passageway (85) of the second adsorption element (82), the moisture contained therein is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The first air deprived of moisture by the second adsorption element (82) passes through the first heat source heat exchanger (103) and is then discharged outside the room. On the other hand, the second air flowing into the (82) cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in the humidity adjustment side passage (85) and is heated by the heat exchanger (102) for heating. Then, it flows into the humidity control side passageway (85) of the first adsorption element (81) through the first shutter (61). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the second air is given to the second air. The second air humidified by the first adsorption element (81) is supplied into the room after passing through the second heat source heat exchanger (104).

  Also, as shown in FIG. 17, it is possible to regenerate after changing the shutter to be opened and closed and heating the first adsorption element (81). In this case, the first, second and fourth shutters (61, 62, 64) are closed, and the third shutter (63) is opened.

  The second air flowing into the (82) cooling side passage (86) of the second adsorption element absorbs the heat of adsorption generated in the humidity adjustment side passage (85) and is heated by the heating heat exchanger (102). Later, it flows into the cooling side passageway (86) of the first adsorption element (81). The second air that has passed through the cooling side passage (86) once flows out to the first passage (51), and then passes through the third shutter (63) to the humidity adjustment side passage ( 85). In the humidity adjusting side passageway (85), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the second air is given to the second air. The second air humidified by the first adsorption element (81) is supplied into the room after passing through the second heat source heat exchanger (104).

  According to this embodiment, in the operation of regenerating after heating the adsorption element (81, 82) on the regeneration side, the humidity adjustment side passage (85) and the cooling side passage (86) of the adsorption element (81, 82) The second air passes through both. Therefore, the temperature of the adsorption element (81, 82) can be increased as compared with the case where the second air is introduced only into the humidity control side passage (85), and the adsorption element (81, 82) is reliably regenerated. Can do.

-Modification of Embodiment 3-
You may change the structure of the humidity control apparatus of the said Embodiment 3. FIG. Here, this modification will be described with respect to differences from the third embodiment.

  In the humidity control apparatus of the third embodiment, the first shutter (61) and the second shutter (62) are always in the closed state in the operation of regenerating after heating the adsorption element (81, 82) on the regeneration side. Yes.

  The humidity control apparatus of the present modification is configured to perform only the operation of regenerating after heating the adsorption element (81, 82) in the adsorption element (81, 82) on the regeneration side. As shown in FIG. 18, the humidity control apparatus is provided with only the third shutter (63) and the fourth shutter (64), and is located at the location of the first shutter (61) and the second shutter (62). Is provided with a partition plate (not shown) for preventing air flow.

  As described above, the present invention is useful for a humidity control apparatus that adjusts indoor humidity.

It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the circulation operation at the time of humidification operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 2nd operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the circulation operation | movement at the time of a humidification driving | operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the ventilation operation | movement at the time of a humidification driving | operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 2nd operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the ventilation operation | movement at the time of a humidification driving | operation. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the structure of the adsorption | suction element of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the circulation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation, or ventilation operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the flow of the air in the 2nd operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the circulation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation, or ventilation operation | movement. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the circulation operation at the time of a dehumidification driving | operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 2nd operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the circulation operation at the time of a dehumidification operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the ventilation operation | movement at the time of a dehumidification driving | operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1, and the flow of the air in 2nd operation | movement of ventilation operation | movement at the time of a dehumidification driving | operation. It is a figure which shows the relationship between air volume ratio and elapsed time ratio. It is a figure which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2, and the flow of the air in 1st operation | movement of the circulation operation | movement or ventilation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation. It is a figure which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3, and the flow of the air in 1st operation | movement of the circulation operation | movement or ventilation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation. It is a figure which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3, and the flow of the air in 1st operation | movement of the circulation operation | movement or ventilation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation. It is a figure which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3, and the flow of the air in 2nd operation | movement of the circulation operation | movement or ventilation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation. It is a figure which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3, and the flow of the air in 2nd operation | movement of the circulation operation | movement or ventilation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation. It is a figure which shows the structure of the humidity control apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3, and the flow of the air in 1st operation | movement of the circulation operation | movement or ventilation operation | movement at the time of humidification operation.

Explanation of symbols

(1) Humidity detection means (humidity sensor)
(81,82) Adsorption element (95) Second fan (exhaust fan)
(96) First fan (supply fan)

Claims (7)

A first fan (96) for supplying air into the room, a second fan (95) for discharging air to the room, and an adsorbing element (81, 81) provided with an adsorbent for adsorbing moisture in the air 82)
A humidity control device that adsorbs moisture from one of the indoor air and the outdoor air to the adsorption element (81, 82) and applies the moisture desorbed from the adsorption element (81, 82) to the other. There,
Ventilation operation that takes in outdoor air and supplies it to the room while taking in indoor air and discharges it to the outside, and circulation operation that takes in indoor air, supplies it to the room, takes in outdoor air, and discharges it outside the room And
A humidity control apparatus that performs the above-described circulation operation at startup and switches to the ventilation operation when a predetermined reference condition is satisfied during the circulation operation. The humidity control apparatus according to claim 1,
A humidity control device in which the flow rate of air going indoors is different from the flow rate of air going outdoor in circulation operation. In the humidity control apparatus of Claim 2,
A dehumidifying operation is possible in which moisture in the air going indoors is adsorbed by the adsorbing element (81, 82), and moisture desorbed from the adsorbing element (81, 82) is given to the air going out of the room. A humidity control apparatus in which the flow rate of air toward the room is greater than the flow rate of air toward the outside in a circulating operation during operation. In the humidity control apparatus of Claim 2,
It is configured to allow a humidifying operation in which moisture in the air going outdoors is adsorbed by the adsorbing element (81, 82) and moisture desorbed from the adsorbing element (81, 82) is given to the air going indoors. A humidity control device in which the flow rate of the air going to the outside is larger than the flow rate of the air going to the room in the circulation operation during operation. The humidity control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Humidity detection means (1) for detecting the humidity of room air is provided,
A humidity control apparatus having a reference condition that the detected value of the humidity detecting means (1) reaches a predetermined reference value. The humidity control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of the indoor air is provided,
A humidity control apparatus in which a detection condition of the temperature detection means reaches a predetermined reference value as a reference condition. The humidity control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
A timer that measures the elapsed time from startup is provided,
A humidity control apparatus whose reference condition is that the measured value of the timer reaches a predetermined reference value.

Images