JP2008145092A - Humidity conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a humidity conditioner for controlling the humidity of air utilizing an adsorbent, detecting a change in gas quantity due to clogging of a filter. <P>SOLUTION: Two adsorbing heat exchangers 51, 52 carrying an adsorbent are housed in a casing 11 of the humidity conditioner. Further, an exhaust fan 25, an air supply fan 25, an outside air filter 27 for purifying the outside air and an inside air filter 28 for purifying the inside air are housed in the casing 11. An outside air temperature sensor 61 and an outside air humidity sensor 71 are installed in an outside air passage 32, and a supply air temperature sensor 62 and an air supply humidity sensor 72 are installed in the air supply passage 33. A controller of the humidity conditioner 10 determines the flow rate of air passing through the two adsorbing heat exchangers 51, 52 using the absolute humidity of air, calculated from the outside air temperature sensor 61 and the outside air humidity sensor 71, and the absolute humidity of air, calculated from the supply air temperature sensor 62 and the supply air humidity sensor 72. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of captured air and supplies the air to a room.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, humidity control apparatuses that adjust indoor humidity by adsorbing or desorbing moisture from an adsorbent are known.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of outdoor air that has been taken in and supplies the air to the room. This humidity control apparatus includes two adsorbing elements for bringing air into contact with the adsorbent. This humidity control apparatus adsorbs moisture in the air to the first adsorption element and simultaneously regenerates the second adsorption element with high-temperature air, and adsorbs moisture in the air to the second adsorption element. At the same time, the operation of regenerating the first adsorption element with high-temperature air is alternately repeated. Then, one of the air dehumidified by the adsorption element and the air to which moisture desorbed from the adsorption element is supplied is supplied to the room, and the other is discharged to the outside.

Patent Document 2 discloses a humidity control apparatus that uses an adsorption heat exchanger carrying an adsorbent instead of an adsorbing element. In this humidity control apparatus, two adsorption heat exchangers are connected to a refrigerant circuit, moisture in the air is adsorbed to an adsorption heat exchanger operating as an evaporator, and desorbed from the adsorption heat exchanger operating as a condenser. Add moisture to the air.
JP 2003-131465 A JP 2004-294048 A

  By the way, in this humidity control apparatus, the pressure loss of the air at the time of passing through the humidity control apparatus during operation gradually increases, and accordingly, the flow rate of air supplied from the humidity control apparatus to the room may decrease. . In other words, the humidity control apparatus may be provided with a filter in order to clean the taken-in air. When dust or the like accumulates on the filter, the pressure loss of air when passing through the filter increases, and the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control device may decrease. In addition, factors other than clogging of the filter, such as dust accumulation on portions other than the filter, may increase air pressure loss in the humidity control device and cause a reduction in air volume.

  Variations in the amount of air supplied to the room during operation of the humidity control device affect the comfort of the room. Therefore, it is desirable for the humidity control device to detect a change in the air volume caused by an increase in air pressure loss by some method.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to detect a change in air volume caused by filter clogging in a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of air using an adsorbent. There is.

  The first invention includes a humidity control member (51, 52,...) Having an adsorbent and bringing the adsorbent into contact with air. The humidity control member (51, 52,...) It is intended for humidity control equipment that adjusts humidity and supplies it indoors. And the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71, ...) for detecting the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity adjusting member (51, 52, ...), and the humidity adjusting member (51, 52, ...) Outlet-side humidity detection means (62, 72,...) For detecting the absolute humidity of the air downstream, and the detected values of the inlet-side humidity detection means (61, 71,...) And the outlet-side humidity detection means (62, 72), and an air volume estimating means (94) for estimating the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Based on the detected value of.

  In the first invention, the air taken into the humidity control device (10) is sent to the humidity control member (51, 52,...) And contacts the adsorbent. In the humidity control member (51, 52,...), Moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, or moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is given to the air. The humidity control device (10) supplies the air whose humidity is adjusted by the humidity control members (51, 52,...) To the room. In this humidity control apparatus (10), the absolute humidity of the air before the humidity is adjusted by the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is detected by the inlet side humidity detection means (61, 71,...) The absolute humidity of the air after the humidity has been adjusted by the member for use (51, 52,...) Is detected by the outlet side humidity detecting means (62, 72,.

  Here, when the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes, the flow velocity of the air when passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes. As a result, the contact time between the air and the adsorbent in the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes, and the amount of moisture exchanged between the air and the adsorbent changes. That is, when the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes, the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes. Moreover, the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Also varies depending on the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...).

  Thus, the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...), the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...), and the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) There is a correlation with the absolute humidity of the air downstream of 52, ...). Therefore, the air volume estimation means (94) of the first invention is based on the detection value of the inlet side humidity detection means (61, 71,...) And the detection value of the outlet side humidity detection means (62, 72,...). Based on the humidity control member (51, 52,...), The flow rate of air is estimated.

  According to a second invention, in the first invention, the air volume estimating means (94) is configured such that the air conditioning member (51, 52,...) 51), by using the phenomenon that the difference between the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the upstream and the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is increased. It is comprised so that the flow volume of the air which passes a member (51,52, ...) may be estimated.

  When the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases, the flow rate of air when passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases accordingly. As the air flow rate decreases, the time during which the air is in contact with the adsorbent increases. Therefore, if the adsorbent is in the operation of adsorbing moisture in the air, the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Increases the amount of moisture taken from the air, and the humidity control member (51, 52,. ...) The absolute humidity of the air downstream is low. Further, during the operation of desorbing moisture from the adsorbent, the amount of moisture applied to the air from the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) increases, and the humidity control member (51, 52, ...). The absolute humidity of the air downstream is increased. That is, when the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control members (51, 52,...) Decreases, the difference in the absolute humidity of air before and after the humidity control members (51, 52,...) Increases.

  Therefore, in the second invention, “the air flow before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases as the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases. The flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is estimated using the phenomenon that the difference in absolute humidity increases.

  In a third aspect based on the first aspect, the air volume estimation means (94) is configured such that the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is a predetermined reference value. The estimated value of the difference between the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) And the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Calculated using the detected value of the humidity detecting means (61, 71,...), And compared with the calculated estimated value, the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the detected outlet side humidity. When the difference from the detected value of the means (62, 72, ...) is large, it is judged that the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) is less than the reference value. It is.

  In the third aspect of the present invention, the air volume estimating means (94) includes the “humidity adjusting member (51, 52,. The difference between the absolute humidity of the air before and after “...” is estimated using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...). The air volume estimating means (94) includes an estimated value of “difference in absolute humidity of air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...)” And an actual measurement value thereof (that is, inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,. ...) and the difference between the detected value of the outlet side humidity detecting means (62, 72, ...). As described above, when the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases, the difference in the absolute humidity of the air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,. Expanding. Therefore, if the measured value of the “difference in absolute humidity of air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...)” Is larger than the estimated value, the air volume estimating means (94) It is determined that the flow rate of the air actually passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is lower than the reference value.

  The fourth invention comprises the blower fan (25, 26) for supplying air to the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) in the third invention, while the air volume estimating means (94) When calculating the estimated value of the difference between the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) and the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) The detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) are used.

  In the fourth invention, the air volume estimating means (94) uses the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) together with the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,. 51, 52,...)) Is calculated. For example, when the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) is variable, the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) changes when the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) changes. To do. As described above, when the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) changes, the amount of moisture transferred between the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) and the air changes. To do. Therefore, the air volume estimating means (94) of the present invention calculates the estimated value of the “difference in the absolute humidity of the air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...)”. ) Is also considered.

  A fifth invention includes the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) that performs the refrigeration cycle by circulating the refrigerant in the third invention, and uses the heat released from the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) to control the humidity. On the other hand, the air volume estimating means (94) is adapted to regenerate the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...). When the estimated value of the difference from the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the dampening member (51, 52,...) Is calculated, the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the refrigerant circuit ( 50, 100) and the capacity of the compressor (53, 101) provided.

  In the fifth invention, the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...) Is regenerated using the heat obtained by the refrigeration cycle in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100). That is, during the regeneration of the humidity control member (51, 52,...), The adsorbent provided therein is heated by the heat generated by the refrigeration cycle, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent.

  Here, when the compression capacity of the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) changes, the amount of refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) changes, and the amount of warm heat obtained by the refrigeration cycle changes. As a result, the amount of heat used to regenerate the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes, and the amount of moisture desorbed from the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes. Further, when the amount of moisture remaining on the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes after the regeneration is finished, the amount of moisture adsorbed on the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Thereafter changes. . That is, when the capacity of the compressor (53, 101) of the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) is variable, the amount of moisture transferred between the humidity control member (51, 52,...) And the air is reduced by the compressor ( 53, 101). Therefore, the air volume estimation means (94) of the fifth aspect of the invention calculates the inlet side humidity detection when calculating the estimated value of “the difference in absolute humidity of air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...)”. The capacity of the compressor (53, 101) is taken into account together with the detected value of the means (61, 71, ...).

  In a sixth aspect based on the first aspect, the air volume estimating means (94) is configured such that the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is a predetermined reference value. An estimated value of the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...) Is calculated using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,. During the operation of adsorbing moisture in the air to the member (51, 52,...), When the detected value of the outlet humidity detecting means (62, 72,...) Is lower than the calculated estimated value. Moisture desorbed from the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) while determining that the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) is less than the reference value. During the operation of applying air to the air, when the detected value of the outlet side humidity detecting means (62, 72,...) Is higher than the calculated estimated value, the humidity control member (51, 52,...) The flow rate of air passing through is one which determines that fewer than the reference value.

  In the sixth aspect of the invention, the air volume estimating means (94) includes the “humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...) When the flow rate of air passing through the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,. ..)) Is estimated by using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...). Then, the air volume estimation means (94) includes an estimated value of “the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...)” And an actual measurement value thereof (that is, outlet side humidity detection means (62, 72, ...) and the detected value).

  As described above, when the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases, the difference in the absolute humidity of the air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,. Expanding. Accordingly, the air volume estimating means (94) of the sixth invention is configured so that the “humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...)” During the operation of adsorbing moisture in the air to the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,. If the measured value of “absolute air humidity downstream” is lower than the estimated value, the flow rate of the air actually passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) At that time is the reference value. It is judged that it is lower than. In addition, the air volume estimating means (94) is provided in the “downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) During operation of imparting moisture desorbed from the humidity control member (51, 52,...) To the air. If the actual measured value of “Absolute humidity of air at” is higher than the estimated value, the flow rate of air actually passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Judge that it is lower.

  While a seventh invention includes the blower fan (25, 26) for supplying air to the humidity control member (51, 52,...) In the sixth invention, the air volume estimation means (94) includes: When calculating the estimated value of the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...), The detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the blower fan (25 , 26).

  In the seventh invention, the air volume estimating means (94) uses the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) together with the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,. 51, 52, ...), the estimated value of the absolute humidity of the air downstream is calculated. For example, when the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) is variable, the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) changes when the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) changes. To do. As described above, when the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) changes, the amount of moisture transferred between the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) and the air changes. To do. Therefore, the air volume estimating means (94) of the present invention calculates the estimated value of “absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...)” Of the blower fan (25, 26). Also consider the rotational speed.

  According to an eighth aspect, in the sixth aspect, the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) that performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating the refrigerant is provided, and the humidity control is performed using heat released from the refrigerant of the refrigerant circuit (50, 100). While the air volume estimating means (94) is configured to regenerate the components (51, 52,...), The estimated value of the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control members (51, 52,...) Is calculated using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the capacity of the compressor (53, 101) provided in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100).

  In the eighth invention, the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is regenerated using the heat obtained by the refrigeration cycle in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100). That is, during the regeneration of the humidity control member (51, 52,...), The adsorbent provided therein is heated by the heat generated by the refrigeration cycle, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent.

  Here, if the capacity | capacitance of the compressor (53,101) of a refrigerant circuit (50,100) changes, the circulation amount of the refrigerant | coolant in a refrigerant circuit (50,100) will change, and the quantity of the heat obtained by a refrigerating cycle will change. As a result, the amount of heat used to regenerate the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes, and the amount of moisture desorbed from the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes. Further, when the amount of moisture remaining on the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Changes after the regeneration is finished, the amount of moisture adsorbed on the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Thereafter changes. . That is, when the capacity of the compressor (53, 101) of the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) is variable, the amount of moisture transferred between the humidity control member (51, 52,...) And the air is reduced by the compressor ( 53, 101). Therefore, the air volume estimating means (94) according to the eighth aspect of the invention calculates the estimated value of “absolute humidity of air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...)” The capacity of the compressor (53, 101) is considered together with the detected value of 61, 71, ...).

  According to a ninth invention, in the first, second, third, or sixth invention, a plurality of the humidity control members (51, 52,...) Are provided, and the first humidity control member (51, 111, 151). The first operation of adsorbing moisture in the air to the second humidity control member (52, 112, 152) and the second moisture simultaneously adsorbing the moisture in the air to the first humidity control member (51, 111, 151) The second operation of regenerating the humidity control member (52, 112, 152) is alternately repeated.

  In the ninth invention, the humidity controller (10) performs the first operation and the second operation alternately. In the first operation, the first humidity control member (51, 111, 151) that has adsorbed moisture during the second operation is regenerated, while the second humidity control member (52, 112, 152) regenerated during the second operation is air. Adsorbs moisture inside. In the second operation, the second humidity control member (52, 112, 152) that has adsorbed moisture during the first operation is regenerated, while the first humidity control member (51, 111, 151) regenerated during the second operation is air. Adsorbs moisture inside.

  A tenth aspect of the invention is the ninth aspect of the invention, further comprising a refrigerant circuit (50) for circulating a refrigerant to perform a refrigeration cycle, and an adsorbent is carried on an outer surface and connected to the refrigerant circuit (50). An adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is provided as the humidity control member, and the refrigerant circuit (50) has a second adsorption with the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) as a condenser. Switching between the operation in which the heat exchanger (52) becomes an evaporator and the operation in which the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) becomes a condenser and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) becomes an evaporator. It is configured to be executable.

  In the tenth invention, the humidity control device (10) is provided with the refrigerant circuit (50), and the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is connected to the refrigerant circuit (50). In the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a condenser, the adsorbent supported on the surface of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is heated by the refrigerant, and moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent. In the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent supported on the surface of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), and the heat of adsorption generated at that time is absorbed. Heat is absorbed by the refrigerant. During the first operation, the refrigerant circuit (50) performs an operation in which the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as a condenser and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as an evaporator. During the second operation, the refrigerant circuit (50) performs an operation in which the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as a condenser and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as an evaporator.

  An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the first, second, third or sixth aspect, wherein the filter member (27, 28) is disposed upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) and purifies air. ) And filter state detecting means (93) for detecting the clogged state of the filter member (27, 28) using the estimated value of the air flow rate estimated by the air volume estimating means (94). is there.

  In the eleventh invention, the filter state detecting means (93) is provided in the humidity control apparatus (10). As the amount of dust or the like collected on the filter member (27, 28) increases, the resistance (ie, pressure loss) when air passes through the filter member (27, 28) increases accordingly. . For this reason, unless the ventilation capacity of a fan or the like for circulating air is changed, the flow rate of air passing through the filter member (27, 28), that is, the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) Will decrease. Thus, there is a correlation between the degree of clogging of the filter member (27, 28) and the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...). Therefore, the filter state detecting means (93) of the present invention detects the clogged state of the filter members (27, 28) using the estimated value of the air flow rate estimated by the air volume estimating means (94).

  In a twelfth aspect according to the eleventh aspect, the normal operation for supplying the air whose humidity is adjusted by the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...) While controlling the operating state of the component equipment to the room, and the component equipment. The filter state detection operation in which the filter state detection means (93) detects the clogged state of the filter member (27, 28) while the operation state of the filter is kept constant can be selectively executed. Is.

  In the twelfth invention, in the humidity control apparatus (10), the normal operation and the filter state detection operation are selectively performed. During normal operation, the operating state of the components of the humidity control apparatus (10) is appropriately controlled. On the other hand, during the filter state detection operation, the operation state of the components of the humidity control device (10) is fixed, and the filter state detection means (93) detects the clogged state of the filter members (27, 28) in that state. To do.

  A thirteenth aspect of the invention is the first, second, third or sixth aspect of the invention, wherein a casing (11) forming an air passage for communicating between the room and the outdoors, and an air disposed in the air passage. And a blower fan (25, 26) that conveys the air, and is configured to adjust the humidity of the taken outdoor air with the humidity control member (51, 52,...) And then supply the indoor air to the room. The blower fan using the estimated air flow rate estimated by the air volume estimating means (94) so that the flow rate of air supplied to the room is maintained at the target air flow rate even if the ventilation resistance in the passage changes. Fan control means (91) for adjusting the blowing capacity of (25, 26) is provided.

  In the thirteenth invention, the humidity control apparatus (10) adjusts the humidity of the taken outdoor air with the humidity control members (51, 52,...) And then supplies the indoor air to the room. That is, this humidity control apparatus (10) performs indoor ventilation. When ventilating a room, it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of ventilation at all times. That is, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present invention, it is necessary to keep the flow rate of air supplied to the room after humidity adjustment is constant. On the other hand, during the operation of the humidity control apparatus (10), pressure loss increases while air passes through the air passage in the casing due to contamination of the humidity control members (51, 52,...). . For this reason, unless any countermeasure is taken, the flow rate of the air supplied from the humidity control device (10) into the room gradually decreases. Therefore, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present invention, that is, the humidity control apparatus (10) that performs indoor ventilation, the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,. The fan control means (91) adjusts the blowing capacity of the blower fans (25, 26) by using the estimated air volume value calculated by the air volume estimating means (94).

  In a fourteenth aspect based on the thirteenth aspect, the casing (11) is provided with an air supply passage and an exhaust passage as the air passage, and is disposed in the air supply passage. An air supply fan (26) that supplies outdoor air to the room and an exhaust fan (25) that is disposed in the exhaust passage and exhausts the room air to the outside are accommodated as the blower fan, and the fan control means (91 ) Is an air supply that adjusts the air supply capacity of the air supply fan (26) so that the flow rate of air supplied to the room is maintained at the target air supply amount even if the ventilation resistance in the air supply passage changes. The air blowing capacity of the exhaust fan (25) is adjusted so that the flow rate of the air discharged to the outside is maintained at the target displacement even when the air flow resistance in the exhaust air passage is changed. Exhaust side control means (96).

  In the fourteenth invention, the humidity control apparatus (10) performs air supply from the outdoor to the indoor by the air supply fan (26), and exhausts from the indoor to the outdoor by the exhaust fan (25). That is, the humidity control apparatus (10) mechanically performs both supply to the room and exhaust from the room. In the humidity control apparatus (10), in order to keep the indoor air pressure constant, the flow rate of the air supplied to the room and the flow rate of the air discharged to the outside must be the same value. In addition, for example, the air supply amount may be set to a value larger than the exhaust amount in order to keep the indoor air pressure at a value slightly higher than the atmospheric pressure. In this case, the values of the air supply amount and the exhaust amount are also different. If it is not kept constant, the atmospheric pressure in the room will be too high or too low. Therefore, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present invention, the air supply side control means (95) controls the air supply fan (26) to keep the air supply amount constant, and the exhaust side control means (96) The fan (25) is controlled to keep the displacement constant.

  In the present invention, the air volume estimation means (94) uses the detection value of the inlet side humidity detection means (61, 71,...) And the detection value of the outlet side humidity detection means (62, 72,...) The flow rate of air passing through the members (51, 52,...) Is estimated. The amount of change in the absolute humidity of the air when passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) of the humidity control device (10) is the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...). to be influenced. Therefore, according to the present invention, by considering the absolute humidity of the air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52, ...), the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) is reduced. It becomes possible to estimate.

  Here, the inlet-side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the outlet-side humidity detecting means (62, 72,...) Are detecting means that can be used for various purposes such as capacity control of the humidity control device (10). However, according to the present invention, it is possible to estimate the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Using such highly versatile detection means. In other words, for example, if the humidity control device (10) is provided with a detection means with limited use such as an air flow sensor that detects only the air flow, the number of parts of the humidity control device (10) increases. According to the present invention, since the flow rate of air can be estimated using detection means that can be used for other purposes, it is possible to estimate the air flow rate while suppressing an increase in the number of parts of the humidity control device (10). it can.

  In the fourth aspect of the invention, the air volume estimating means (94) detects the humidity on the inlet side when calculating the estimated value of “the difference in absolute humidity of air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...)”. The detection value of the means (61, 71,...) And the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) are taken into consideration. In the seventh aspect of the invention, the air volume estimating means (94) detects the inlet side humidity when calculating the estimated value of “absolute humidity of air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...)”. The detection value of the means (61, 71,...) And the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) are taken into consideration. Therefore, according to these inventions, even when the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) is variable, the air volume passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) By the air volume estimating means (94) is reduced. It can be estimated accurately.

  In the fifth aspect of the invention, the air volume estimating means (94) detects the inlet side humidity when calculating the estimated value of “the difference in absolute humidity of air before and after the humidity control member (51, 52,...)”. The capacity of the compressor (53, 101) is taken into account together with the detected value of the means (61, 71, ...). In the eighth aspect of the invention, the air volume estimating means (94) detects the inlet side humidity when calculating the estimated value of “absolute humidity of air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...)”. The capacity of the compressor (53, 101) is taken into account together with the detected value of the means (61, 71, ...). Therefore, according to these inventions, even when the capacity of the compressor (53, 101) is variable, the air volume passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is accurately estimated by the air volume estimating means (94). it can.

  In the eleventh aspect, the filter state detection means (93) detects the clogged state of the filter member (27, 28) using the estimated value of the air flow rate estimated by the air volume estimation means (94). . If the clogged state of the filter member (27, 28) can be detected, it is possible to display a message prompting the user to clean the filter member (27, 28) according to the degree of clogging, and the humidity control device (10) It is possible to suppress the performance degradation.

  In the twelfth aspect of the invention, the humidity controller (10) performs a filter state detection operation. Here, when the operating state of the components of the humidity control device (10) changes, the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the outlet side humidity detecting means (62, 72,...) Therefore, it is difficult to ensure the accuracy of the estimated value of the air flow rate obtained by the air volume estimating means (94). On the other hand, during the filter state detection operation, the operation state of the components of the humidity controller (10) is kept constant. Therefore, according to the present invention, the accuracy of the estimated value of the air flow rate obtained by the air volume estimation means (94) can be easily improved.

  In the thirteenth aspect of the invention, the air volume estimating means (94) estimates the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...), And the estimated air volume calculated by the air volume estimating means (94) is used. Utilizing the fan control means (91), the air blowing capacity of the air blowing fans (25, 26) is adjusted. Therefore, according to the present invention, even if the pressure loss during the passage of air through the casing due to dirt or the like of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Increases, It is possible to ensure the flow rate of the air supplied to.

  In the fourteenth aspect, the air supply side control means (95) controls the air supply fan (26) to keep the air supply amount constant, and the exhaust side control means (96) controls the exhaust fan (25). By controlling, the displacement is kept constant. Therefore, according to the present invention, even in a state where the pressure loss during the passage of air through the casing due to contamination of the humidity control member (51, 52,. Can be kept in.

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

Embodiment 1 of the Invention
An embodiment of the present invention will be described. The humidity control device (10) of the present embodiment performs indoor ventilation as well as indoor humidity adjustment. At the same time, the taken outdoor air (OA) is humidity-adjusted and supplied to the room. ) To the outside.

<Overall configuration of humidity control device>
The said humidity control apparatus (10) is demonstrated referring FIG.1 and FIG.2. Unless otherwise specified, “up”, “down”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, “front”, and “back” are used for the humidity control device (10) on the front side. It means the direction when seen from.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) includes a casing (11). A refrigerant circuit (50) is accommodated in the casing (11). The refrigerant circuit (50) includes a first adsorption heat exchanger (51), a second adsorption heat exchanger (52), a compressor (53), a four-way switching valve (54), and an electric expansion valve (55). It is connected. Details of the refrigerant circuit (50) will be described later.

  The casing (11) is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is slightly flat and relatively low in height. In this casing (11), a front panel (12) is erected on the left front side in FIG. 1, and a rear panel (13) is erected on the right rear side in FIG. The length in the direction is almost equal to the length in the direction from the right front to the left back.

  In the front panel (12) of the casing (11), an exhaust port (21) is opened at a position on the left side, and an air supply port (22) is opened at a position on the right side. In the central part of the rear panel (13) of the casing (11), an outside air inlet (23) is opened at an upper position, and an inside air inlet (24) is opened at a lower position.

  The internal space of the casing (11) is partitioned into a space having a relatively small volume on the front panel (12) side and a space having a relatively large volume on the back panel (13) side.

  The space on the front panel (12) side in the casing (11) is partitioned into two left and right spaces. In the left and right spaces, the left space constitutes an exhaust fan chamber (35), and the right space constitutes an air supply fan chamber (36). The exhaust fan chamber (35) communicates with the outdoor space via the exhaust port (21). The exhaust fan chamber (35) accommodates an exhaust fan (25), and the outlet of the exhaust fan (25) is connected to the exhaust port (21). On the other hand, the air supply fan chamber (36) communicates with the indoor space through the air supply port (22). The supply fan chamber (36) accommodates the supply fan (26), and the outlet of the supply fan (26) is connected to the supply port (22). The air supply fan chamber (36) also houses a compressor (53).

  On the other hand, the space on the back panel (13) side in the casing (11) is divided into three front and rear spaces by the first partition plate (16) and the second partition plate (17) erected in the casing (11). It is partitioned. These partition plates (16, 17) extend in the left-right direction of the casing (11). The first partition plate (16) is disposed near the back surface of the casing (11), and the second partition plate (17) is disposed near the front surface of the casing (11).

  In the casing (11), the space behind the first partition plate (16) is partitioned into two upper and lower spaces, the upper space is the outside air flow path (32), and the lower space is the inside air side. Each flow path (34) is configured. The outside air channel (32) communicates with the outdoor space via the outside air inlet (23). The outside air channel (32) is provided with an outside air filter (27), which is a filter member that extends in the left and right direction and divides the channel (32) into the front and rear. The room air channel (34) communicates with the room through the room air inlet (24). The room air side flow path (34) is provided with a room air side filter (28) which is a filter member extending left and right and dividing the flow path (34) into the front and rear.

  On the other hand, the space in front of the second partition plate (17) is partitioned into two upper and lower spaces, the upper space being the exhaust side flow path (31) and the lower space being the air supply side flow path (33). Is configured. The exhaust side flow path (31) communicates with the exhaust fan chamber (35). The supply side flow path (33) communicates with the supply fan chamber (36).

  The space between the first partition plate (16) and the second partition plate (17) is further divided into two left and right spaces by the central partition plate (18). The space on the right side of the central partition plate (18) constitutes the first heat exchanger chamber (37), and the space on the left side constitutes the second heat exchanger chamber (38). The first heat exchanger chamber (37) accommodates the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), and the second heat exchanger chamber (38) accommodates the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). These two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) are arranged so as to cross the heat exchanger chambers (37, 38) in which they are accommodated in the left-right direction.

  The first partition plate (16) is provided with four open / close dampers (41 to 44). Specifically, in the first partition plate (16), the first damper (41) is on the upper right side, the second damper (42) is on the upper left side, and the third damper (43) is on the lower left side. The fourth dampers (44) are respectively attached to the lower part of each. When the first damper (41) is opened, the outside air flow path (32) and the first heat exchanger chamber (37) communicate with each other. When the second damper (42) is opened, the outside air flow path (32) and the second heat exchanger chamber (38) communicate with each other. When the third damper (43) is opened, the inside air flow path (34) and the first heat exchanger chamber (37) communicate with each other. When the fourth damper (44) is opened, the inside air flow path (34) and the second heat exchanger chamber (38) communicate with each other.

  The second partition plate (17) is provided with four open / close dampers (45 to 48). Specifically, in the second partition plate (17), the fifth damper (45) is located on the upper right side, the sixth damper (46) is located on the upper left side, and the seventh damper (47) is located on the lower left side. The eighth damper (48) is attached to the lower part of each. When the fifth damper (45) is opened, the exhaust side flow path (31) and the first heat exchanger chamber (37) communicate with each other. When the sixth damper (46) is opened, the exhaust side flow path (31) and the second heat exchanger chamber (38) communicate with each other. When the seventh damper (47) is opened, the air supply side flow path (33) and the first heat exchanger chamber (37) communicate with each other. When the eighth damper (48) is opened, the air supply side flow path (33) and the second heat exchanger chamber (38) communicate with each other.

  An outside air temperature sensor (61) and an outside air humidity sensor (71) are installed downstream of the outside air side filter (27) in the outside air channel (32). The outside air temperature sensor (61) measures the temperature of the outdoor air flowing through the outside air channel (32). The outside air humidity sensor (71) measures the relative humidity of the outdoor air flowing through the outside air channel (32). The outside air temperature sensor (61) and the outside air humidity sensor (71), together with the controller (90) described later, constitute inlet side humidity detecting means for detecting the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). ing.

  An air supply temperature sensor (62) and an air supply humidity sensor (72) are installed in the air supply side flow path (33). In the air supply side flow path (33), the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) flows. The air supply temperature sensor (62) measures the temperature of the air flowing through the air supply side flow path (33). The air supply humidity sensor (72) measures the relative humidity of the outdoor air flowing through the air supply side flow path (33). The supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity sensor (72), together with the controller (90) described later, have outlet side humidity detection means for detecting the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). It is composed.

  An inside air temperature sensor (63) and an inside air humidity sensor (73) are installed downstream of the inside air side filter (28) in the inside air channel (34). The room air temperature sensor (63) measures the temperature of the room air flowing through the room air side channel (34). The room air humidity sensor (73) measures the relative humidity of the room air flowing through the room air side channel (34).

<Configuration of refrigerant circuit>
The refrigerant circuit (50) will be described with reference to FIG.

  The refrigerant circuit (50) includes a first adsorption heat exchanger (51), a second adsorption heat exchanger (52), a compressor (53), a four-way switching valve (54), and an electric expansion valve (55). Closed circuit. The refrigerant circuit (50) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle by circulating the filled refrigerant.

  In the refrigerant circuit (50), the compressor (53) has its discharge side connected to the first port of the four-way switching valve (54) and its suction side connected to the second port of the four-way switching valve (54). Yes. One end of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is connected to the third port of the four-way switching valve (54). The other end of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is connected to one end of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) via the electric expansion valve (55). The other end of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is connected to the fourth port of the four-way switching valve (54).

  The four-way switching valve (54) has a first state (the state shown in FIG. 3A) in which the first port and the third port communicate with each other and the second port and the fourth port communicate with each other, It is possible to switch to the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B) in which one port communicates with the fourth port and the second port communicates with the third port.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) are both constituted by cross fin type fin-and-tube heat exchangers. These adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) include a copper heat transfer tube (58) and aluminum fins (57). The plurality of fins (57) provided in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) are each formed in a rectangular plate shape and are arranged at regular intervals. Moreover, the heat exchanger tube (58) is provided so that it may penetrate each fin (57).

  In each of the adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52), an adsorbent is supported on the surface of each fin (57), and the air passing between the fins (57) is supported on the fin (57). Contact with. As this adsorbent, those capable of adsorbing water vapor in the air such as zeolite, silica gel, activated carbon, and organic polymer material having a hydrophilic functional group are used. The first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) constitute a humidity control member.

<Configuration of controller>
The humidity control device (10) is provided with a controller (90). As shown in FIG. 5, the controller (90) has a fan control unit (91) for controlling the air volume of the exhaust fan (25) and the air supply fan (26), and the humidity control capacity of the humidity control device (10). A humidity control unit (92) that controls the state of the refrigeration cycle of the refrigerant circuit (50) for adjustment, and a filter state detection unit that is a filter state detection unit that detects a clogged state of the outside air filter (27) (93) and an air volume estimation unit (94) for estimating the air volume Q of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52).

  The fan control unit (91) is configured to be able to set the air volume of the supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) in three stages of “large”, “medium”, and “small”. Specifically, the fan control unit (91) changes the current value (or voltage value) of the electric power supplied to the fan motors of the air supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) to three levels. Adjust the air volume of the air fan (26) and exhaust fan (25).

  Although not shown, the humidity control unit (92) is provided with a humidity input unit for the user to input a desired room humidity and a temperature input unit for the user to input a desired room temperature.

  The humidity input unit is configured so that the desired indoor humidity can be selected from three levels of “low”, “medium”, and “high”. In the humidity control unit (92), ranges of relative humidity corresponding to “low”, “medium”, and “high” are preset. When any of “low”, “medium”, and “high” is input to the humidity input unit, the humidity control unit (92) sets the relative humidity range corresponding to the input to the target humidity.

  For example, when “low” is input to the humidity input unit, the humidity control unit (92) sets “40% or more and less than 50%” as the target humidity, and “medium” is input to the humidity input unit. Then, the humidity control section (92) sets “50% or more and less than 60%” as the target humidity, and when “high” is input to the humidity input section, the humidity control section (92) displays “60% or more and 70”. Set the target humidity to less than%. In addition, when a desired room temperature is input to the temperature input unit, the humidity control unit (92) sets the desired room temperature to a target temperature (for example, 25 ° C.).

  Although not shown, the humidity control unit (92) includes a calculation unit. The calculation unit calculates the absolute humidity at the temperature and humidity from the target humidity and the target temperature. The humidity control unit (92) sets the absolute humidity calculated by the calculation unit as the target absolute humidity, and adjusts the humidity control capability of the humidity control device (10) so that the indoor absolute humidity approaches the target absolute humidity.

The air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the air volume Q of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). The air volume estimation unit (94) stores a database function shown in Equation 1 in order to estimate the air volume Q of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52).
Formula 1: Xsa = J (Xoa, Q, F) + K

  In the above equation 1, Xsa is the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) (ie, the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52)), and Xoa is the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) (ie, The absolute humidity of the air upstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), Q is the air volume of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), and F is the operating frequency of the compressor (53) (ie , K represents a correction value considering the pressure loss due to the duct and the characteristics of the indoor space in which the humidity control device (10) is installed. It should be noted that the air volume Q of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) may be considered to be substantially the same as the air volume supplied to the room by the air supply fan (26).

The database function of the above equation 1 is that the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA), the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA), the air volume Q of the air passing through the outdoor air filter (27), and the compressor (53) It is expressed as a function of the operating frequency F. The database function of Equation 1 is obtained by creating the database function of Equation 2 when designing the humidity control device (10) and determining the value of K when installing the humidity control device (10).
Formula 2: Xsa = J (Xoa, Q, F)

  In the initial state of the outdoor air filter (27), the database function of Equation 2 is the outdoor air taken in from the air volume Q of the supply fan (26), the operating frequency F of the compressor (53), and the outdoor air inlet (23). While measuring the absolute humidity Xoa of (OA), the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA) blown out from the inside air inlet (24) is measured, and the obtained data is used as the air volume Q, the operating frequency F, and the absolute humidity Xoa. It is created by organizing it as a correlation equation. At that time, the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA) is calculated by the air volume estimation unit (94) using the detection value of the outdoor air temperature sensor (61) and the detection value of the outdoor air humidity sensor (71). The absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA) is calculated by the air volume estimation unit (94) using the detection value of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the detection value of the supply air humidity sensor (72). “The initial state of the outside air filter (27)” means that the outside air filter (27) is contaminated immediately after the humidity control device (10) is installed or immediately after the outside air filter (27) is cleaned or replaced. It means “not attached”.

  By the way, when the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) (that is, the flow rate of air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52)) changes, the air flow before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is changed. The absolute humidity difference of the air changes. Specifically, when the air volume Q decreases, the wind speed when contacting the adsorbent decreases accordingly. And, the lower the flow rate of the air in contact with the adsorbent, the longer the time that the air is in contact with the adsorbent. Therefore, the amount of change in the humidity of the air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) increases. That is, the difference between the absolute humidity of the air before passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) and the absolute humidity of the air after passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) increases. Thus, there is a correlation between the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) and the humidity change amount of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52).

  Further, when the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) changes, the refrigerant circulation amount in the refrigerant circuit (50) changes, and accordingly, the refrigerant in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) serving as a condenser. The amount of heat released from the refrigerant and the amount of heat absorbed by the refrigerant in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) serving as an evaporator change. For this reason, the amount of moisture exchanged between the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) and air changes, and the difference in absolute humidity of air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) changes.

  Therefore, in the database function of Equation 2, the correlation using the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA), the air volume Q of the air passing through the outdoor air filter (27), and the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) as parameters. The absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA) is expressed by the equation.

  In addition, the length and shape of the duct when installing the humidity control apparatus (10) are different for each installation location, and the pressure loss of the duct is also different for each installation location. For this reason, even if the air volume of the air supply fan (26) set in the fan control unit (91) is the same, the flow rate of the air actually blown from the air supply fan (26) varies depending on the installation location. . Furthermore, in this humidity control apparatus (10), the temperature or humidity of the indoor supply air (SA) varies depending on the temperature and humidity of the indoor air (RA) taken from the room. Specifically, when the temperature or humidity of the indoor air (RA) taken in from the room by the humidity controller (10) changes, the amount of heat absorbed by the refrigerant and the amount of moisture absorbed by the adsorbent in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) Changes, and the operating state of the humidity control device (10) also changes accordingly, so that the temperature or humidity of the indoor supply air (SA) changes. For this reason, K is determined in consideration of the pressure loss due to the duct and the characteristics of the indoor space in which the humidity control device (10) is installed, thereby eliminating these effects.

  The database function of Formula 2 is the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) for the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) and the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) in the installed state of the humidity controller (10). ) Represents the relationship of the amount of change in humidity of the air passing through. According to the database function of Equation 2, the outdoor air filter (27) is calculated from the absolute humidity Xoa of outdoor air (OA), the absolute humidity Xsa of supply air (SA), and the operating frequency F of the compressor (53). The air volume Q of the air passing through can be estimated.

  The air volume estimating unit (94) uses the equation 1 to initialize the air volume of the air supply fan (26) when it is set to “large”, “medium”, and “small”. The air volume Q (0) of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) in the state is estimated. At that time, the value of the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) is transmitted from the humidity control section (92) to the air volume estimating section (94). When the air volume of the air supply fan (26) is “large”, the estimated air volume QH (0), when it is “medium”, estimated air volume QM (0), and when it is “small” The estimated value QL (0) of the air volume is stored in the filter state detection unit (93).

  Based on the air volume Q of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) estimated by the air volume estimation section (94), the filter state detection section (93) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27). To detect.

  The filter state detection unit (93) estimates the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) by the air volume estimation unit (94) at a predetermined time every day (for example, midnight). The filter state detector (93) compares the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) estimated by the air volume estimator (94) with the air volume Q (0) and compares the air volume Q (0) Detect clogging. When the outside air filter (27) needs to be replaced, a “filter replacement sign” is displayed. Details of the operation of the filter state detector (93) will be described later.

-Driving action-
The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment performs a dehumidifying operation or a humidifying operation. During the dehumidifying or humidifying operation, the humidity control device (10) adjusts the humidity of the outdoor air (OA) that has been taken in and supplies it to the room as supply air (SA), and at the same time discharges the taken indoor air (RA). Discharge outside as air (EA).

<Dehumidifying operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the dehumidifying operation, a first operation and a second operation described later are alternately repeated at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 3 minutes).

  First, the first operation of the dehumidifying operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 6, during the first operation, only the second damper (42), the third damper (43), the fifth damper (45), and the eighth damper (48) are in the open state, and the rest. The dampers (41, 44, 46, 47) are closed. In this state, the air supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) of the humidity control apparatus (10) are operated. When the air supply fan (26) is operated, outdoor air is taken as first air from the outside air inlet (23) into the casing (11). When the exhaust fan (25) is operated, room air is taken as second air from the inside air suction port (24) into the casing (11).

  In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the first operation, as shown in FIG. 3 (A), the four-way switching valve (54) is set to the first state. In the refrigerant circuit (50) in this state, the refrigerant circulates to perform a refrigeration cycle. At that time, in the refrigerant circuit (50), the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53) passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the electric expansion valve (55), and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) in this order. The first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as a condenser and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as an evaporator.

  The first air that has flowed into the outside air flow path (32) from the outside air inlet (23) flows into the second heat exchanger chamber (38) through the second damper (42), and then the second heat of adsorption. Pass through the exchanger (52). In the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), moisture in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the heat of adsorption generated at that time is absorbed by the refrigerant. The first air dehumidified by the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows into the supply side flow path (33) through the eighth damper (48), and is supplied after passing through the supply fan chamber (36). It is supplied into the room through the mouth (22).

  On the other hand, the 2nd air which flowed into the inside air side channel (34) from the inside air suction port (24) flows into the 1st heat exchanger room (37) through the 3rd damper (43), and after that the 1st Passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51). In the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the refrigerant, and the desorbed moisture is given to the second air. The second air given moisture in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) flows into the exhaust side flow path (31) through the fifth damper (45) and exhausts after passing through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged out of the room through the mouth (21).

  The second operation of the dehumidifying operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, during the second operation, only the first damper (41), the fourth damper (44), the sixth damper (46), and the seventh damper (47) are opened, and the rest The dampers (42, 43, 45, 48) are closed.

  In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the second operation, as shown in FIG. 3 (B), the four-way selector valve (54) is set to the second state. In the refrigerant circuit (50) in this state, the refrigerant circulates to perform a refrigeration cycle. At that time, in the refrigerant circuit (50), the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53) passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the electric expansion valve (55), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) in this order. The first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as an evaporator and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as a condenser.

  The first air that has flowed into the outside air flow path (32) from the outside air inlet (23) flows into the first heat exchanger chamber (37) through the first damper (41), and then the first heat of adsorption. Pass through the exchanger (51). In the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), moisture in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the adsorption heat generated at that time is absorbed by the refrigerant. The first air dehumidified by the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) flows into the supply side flow path (33) through the seventh damper (47), and is supplied after passing through the supply fan chamber (36). It is supplied into the room through the mouth (22).

  On the other hand, the 2nd air which flowed into the inside air side channel (34) from the inside air suction port (24) flows into the 2nd heat exchanger room (38) through the 4th damper (44), and is 2nd after that. Passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (52). In the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the refrigerant, and the desorbed moisture is given to the second air. The second air given moisture by the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows into the exhaust side flow path (31) through the sixth damper (46), and exhausts after passing through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged out of the room through the mouth (21).

<Humidification operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the humidification operation, a first operation and a second operation described later are alternately repeated at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 3 minutes).

  First, the first operation of the humidifying operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 8, during the first operation, only the first damper (41), the fourth damper (44), the sixth damper (46), and the seventh damper (47) are in the open state, and the rest. The dampers (42, 43, 45, 48) are closed. In this state, the air supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) of the humidity control apparatus (10) are operated. When the air supply fan (26) is operated, outdoor air is taken as second air from the outside air inlet (23) into the casing (11). When the exhaust fan (25) is operated, room air is taken as first air from the inside air suction port (24) into the casing (11).

  In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the first operation, as shown in FIG. 3 (A), the four-way switching valve (54) is set to the first state. In the refrigerant circuit (50), as in the first operation of the dehumidifying operation, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as a condenser and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as an evaporator. .

  The 1st air which flowed into the inside air side channel (34) from the inside air suction port (24) flows into the 2nd heat exchanger room (38) through the 4th damper (44), and then the 2nd adsorption heat Pass through the exchanger (52). In the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), moisture in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the heat of adsorption generated at that time is absorbed by the refrigerant. The first air deprived of moisture by the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows into the exhaust side flow path (31) through the sixth damper (46) and exhausts after passing through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged out of the room through the mouth (21).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed into the outside air flow path (32) from the outside air inlet (23) flows into the first heat exchanger chamber (37) through the first damper (41), and then the first air Passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51). In the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the refrigerant, and the desorbed moisture is given to the second air. The second air humidified by the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) flows into the supply side flow path (33) through the seventh damper (47), and is supplied after passing through the supply fan chamber (36). It is supplied into the room through the mouth (22).

  The second operation of the humidifying operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 9, during the second operation, only the second damper (42), the third damper (43), the fifth damper (45), and the eighth damper (48) are in the open state, and the rest. The dampers (41, 44, 46, 47) are closed.

  In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the second operation, as shown in FIG. 3 (B), the four-way selector valve (54) is set to the second state. In this refrigerant circuit (50), as in the second operation of the dehumidifying operation, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as an evaporator and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as a condenser. .

  The 1st air which flowed into the inside air side channel (34) from the inside air inlet (24) flows into the 1st heat exchanger room (37) through the 3rd damper (43), and after that, the 1st heat of adsorption Pass through the exchanger (51). In the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), moisture in the first air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the adsorption heat generated at that time is absorbed by the refrigerant. The first air deprived of moisture by the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) flows into the exhaust side flow path (31) through the fifth damper (45), and exhausts after passing through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged out of the room through the mouth (21).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed into the outside air flow path (32) from the outside air inlet (23) flows into the second heat exchanger chamber (38) through the second damper (42), and then the second air. Passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (52). In the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the refrigerant, and the desorbed moisture is given to the second air. The second air humidified by the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows into the supply side flow path (33) through the eighth damper (48) and passes through the supply fan chamber (36) before being supplied. It is supplied into the room through the mouth (22).

-Controller operation-
The operation of the controller (90) will be described.

  The humidity control section (92) of the controller (90) controls the operating frequency of the compressor (53) so that the indoor humidity desired by the user is obtained. The filter state detection unit (93) detects a clogged state of the outside air filter (27) at a predetermined time every day.

  The operation of the humidity control unit (92) will be described. When the user inputs desired room humidity and room temperature, the humidity control unit (92) sets the humidity to the target humidity and sets the temperature to the target temperature. Then, the humidity control unit (92) calculates the absolute humidity at the temperature and the humidity from the target temperature and the target humidity in the calculation unit, and sets the calculated absolute humidity as the target absolute humidity. The computing unit calculates the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) from the detected values of the outdoor temperature sensor (61) and the outdoor air humidity sensor (71), and detects the indoor air temperature sensor (63) and the indoor air humidity sensor (73). The absolute humidity of the indoor air (RA) is calculated from the value, and the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) is calculated from the detected values of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity sensor (72).

  Based on the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA), indoor air (RA) and supply air (SA) and the target absolute humidity, the humidity control unit (92) causes the indoor absolute humidity to approach the target absolute humidity. To control the humidity control capacity of the humidity control device (10). The humidity control capacity of the humidity control apparatus (10) is controlled by changing the operation frequency of the compressor (53) and changing the refrigerant circulation amount in the refrigerant circuit (50), for example.

  The operation of the filter state detection unit (93) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the filter state detector (93) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27), the initial air volume Q (0) corresponding to the air volume setting value of the air supply fan (26) at that time is calculated. select. Specifically, when the air volume of the air supply fan (26) is “large”, Q (0) = QH (0), and when the air volume is “medium”, Q (0) = QM (0), When the air volume is “small”, Q (0) = QL (0).

  First, in step ST11, the air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the detection values of the outside air temperature sensor (61) and the outside air humidity sensor (71) and the detection values of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity sensor (72). Receive. The air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA) using the detection value of the outside air temperature sensor (61) and the detection value of the outside air humidity sensor (71). The air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA) using the detection value of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the detection value of the supply air humidity sensor (72). When step ST11 ends, the process proceeds to step ST12.

  In step ST12, the air volume estimation unit (94) receives the value of the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) from the humidity control unit (92). The air volume estimation unit (94) uses the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA), the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA), the operating frequency F of the compressor (53), and the database function of Equation 1 above. Thus, the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) is estimated. When step ST12 ends, the process proceeds to step ST13.

In step ST13, the filter state detection unit (93) compares the estimated air volume Q with the initial air volume Q (0) of the outside air filter (27). Then, when the condition of Expression 3 is satisfied, the filter state detection unit (93) proceeds to step ST14 and displays “filter replacement sign”. L represents a preset constant. When the condition of Expression 3 is not satisfied in step ST13 and when step ST14 is completed, the detection of the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) by the filter state detection unit (93) is completed.
Formula 3: Q ≦ Q (0) × L

  As described above, the filter state detector (93) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) at a predetermined time every day. When the condition of Expression 3 is satisfied, a “filter replacement sign” is displayed. For example, when L = 0.9, the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) detected by the filter state detector (93) is equal to the air volume Q (0) in the initial state of the outside air filter (27). When it drops to 90% or less, a “filter change sign” is displayed.

  As described above, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated. During the continuation of the first operation and the second operation, the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) changes as shown in FIG. FIG. 11 shows changes in absolute humidity over time for the first air and the second air that have passed through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) during the dehumidifying operation. Moreover, in FIG. 11, the time when the 1st operation | movement of the humidity control apparatus (10) was started is made into the starting point, and this starting point is made into the elapsed time 0 minutes. FIG. 11 shows data when the first operation and the second operation are switched every 3 minutes.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) during the first operation of the dehumidifying operation rapidly decreases immediately after the start of the first operation. The absolute humidity of the air reaches a minimum value (peak value) 20 to 30 seconds after the start of the first operation, and then gradually increases to approach the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA). . Further, the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) during the second operation of the dehumidifying operation rises rapidly immediately after the start of the second operation. The absolute humidity of the air reaches a maximum value (peak value) 20 to 30 seconds after the start of the second operation, and then gradually decreases and approaches the absolute humidity of the room air (RA). .

  Therefore, the air volume estimation unit (94) of the present embodiment calculates the peak value of the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) during the first operation or the second operation, as the supply air (SA ) As absolute humidity Xsa.

  Specifically, during the dehumidifying operation, the air volume estimation unit (94) determines the minimum value of the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) during the first operation as the supply air (SA ) As absolute humidity Xsa. The air volume estimation unit (94) averages the minimum value of the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) for the first operation for a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times), and the average value obtained. May be used as the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA).

  In addition, during the humidifying operation, the air volume estimation unit (94) determines the maximum value of the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) during the second operation, as the supply air (SA). Used as absolute humidity Xsa. The air volume estimation unit (94) averages the maximum absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) for a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times) of the second operation, and obtains the average value. May be used as the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA).

-Effect of Embodiment 1-
In the present embodiment, the clogged state of the outdoor air filter (27) affects the amount of change in air humidity before and after contacting the adsorbent, so the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) and the supply air (SA) Based on the absolute humidity, the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) is detected. The absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) is calculated based on the outside air temperature sensor (61) and the outside air humidity sensor (71), and the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) is calculated from the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity. Calculated based on sensor (72). By the way, these sensors (61, 62, 71, 72) for detecting the temperature and humidity are used for controlling the operating state of the humidity control device (10). In this embodiment, the temperature or humidity sensors (61,..., 71,...) Used for controlling the operating state of the humidity control device (10) are also used to detect the clogging state of the outside air filter (27). ing. This eliminates the need for a separate sensor to detect clogging of the outside air filter (27), so the condition of the outside air filter (27) can be detected without complicating the configuration of the humidity control device (10). can do.

  By the way, in a general air conditioner using a heat exchanger that does not carry an adsorbent, the flow rate of air passing through the heat exchanger can be estimated using the temperature difference between the air before and after the heat exchanger. Is possible. For example, in a heat exchanger functioning as an evaporator, as the flow rate of air passing therethrough decreases, the temperature difference between the air before and after the heat exchanger increases, and as a result, downstream of the heat exchanger. The temperature of the air is getting lower. In addition, in a heat exchanger functioning as a condenser, the temperature difference between the air before and after the heat exchanger increases as the flow rate of air passing through the heat exchanger decreases, and as a result, in the downstream of the heat exchanger. The air temperature is getting higher. For this reason, for the temperature difference between the air before and after the heat exchanger, the measured value is compared with the reference value measured at the reference air volume, and if the measured value is larger than the reference value, the heat exchanger is It can be determined that the flow rate of the passing air has decreased from the reference air volume.

  From this, also in the humidity control apparatus (10) of this embodiment, the flow rate of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is estimated from the temperature difference of the air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). It may seem that you can. However, for the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) carrying the adsorbent, it is extremely difficult to accurately estimate the flow rate of the air passing therethrough from the temperature difference between the air before and after the adsorbent.

  This point will be described. Adsorption heat is generated when moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. In the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) serving as an evaporator, the refrigerant absorbs the adsorption heat and evaporates. For this reason, the temperature of air does not decrease so much while passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), and in some cases, it hardly changes. Further, in order to desorb moisture from the adsorbent, heat must be supplied to the adsorbent from the outside. In the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) which is a condenser, most of the heat released from the refrigerant is consumed to desorb moisture from the adsorbent. For this reason, the temperature of air does not rise so much while passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), and in some cases, it hardly changes. Therefore, even if the temperature difference between the air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is monitored, it is difficult to estimate the flow rate of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) from that value. .

  On the other hand, in the air volume estimation unit (94) of the present embodiment, the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is changed using the absolute humidity values Xoa, Xsa of the air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). The flow rate of the passing air is estimated. When air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), the amount of moisture contained in the air (that is, the absolute humidity of the air) changes relatively large. When the flow rate of air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) changes, the difference in absolute humidity of the air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) fluctuates relatively accordingly. . Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the flow rate of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) can be accurately estimated.

-Modification 1 of embodiment-
As described above, in the air volume estimation unit (94) of the present embodiment, the peak value of the absolute humidity of the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) during the first operation or the second operation is supplied. Although the absolute humidity Xsa of air (SA) is used, the value used as the absolute humidity Xsa of supply air (SA) is not limited to this. For example, the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) when a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) has elapsed from the start of the first operation or the second operation is expressed as supply air (SA) The absolute humidity Xsa may be used. In addition, regarding the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), the temporal average value from the start time of the first operation or the second operation to the time when a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) has passed is obtained. The calculated value may be used as the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA).

-Modification 2 of embodiment-
In the controller (90) of the present embodiment, the air volume estimation unit (94) is incorporated in the filter state detection unit (93), and the measured value of the difference in absolute humidity of the air before and after the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) The clogged state of the outside air filter (27) may be detected by comparing the reference values.

  Also in this modification, the filter state detection unit (93) stores the database function represented by the above equation 1. A filter state detection part (93) acquires the value in the determination time about each of the absolute humidity Xoa of outdoor air (OA), and the operating frequency F of a compressor (53). In addition, the filter state detection unit (93) uses the air volume Q of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) as the air volume Q of the air supply fan (26) in the initial state of the outside air filter (27). A value stored in advance is used.

  The filter state detector (93) calculates the estimated absolute value Xsa_e of the supply air (SA) using the values of the absolute humidity Xoa, the operating frequency F, the air volume Q of air, and the database function of Equation 1. . Further, the filter state detection unit (93) calculates the absolute humidity measurement value Xsa_m of the supply air (SA) from the detection value of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the detection value of the supply air humidity sensor (72). A measured value Xoa_m of the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) is calculated from the detected value of the temperature sensor (61) and the detected value of the outdoor air humidity sensor (71). Subsequently, the filter state detector (93) detects the absolute value | ΔX_e | of the difference between the measured value Xoa_m of the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) and the estimated value Xsa_e of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA), and the outdoor air. The absolute value | ΔX_m | of the difference between the measured value Xoa_m of the absolute humidity (OA) and the measured value Xsa_m of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) is calculated.

  If the absolute value | ΔX_m | is larger than the absolute value | ΔX_e |, the flow rate of the air actually passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) at that time is In some cases, it is reduced compared to the flow rate of air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). Therefore, when the absolute value | ΔX_m | becomes larger than the absolute value | ΔX_e | to some extent, the filter state detection unit (93) determines that the clogging of the outside air filter (27) is progressing, and “filter replacement sign” Is displayed.

  In the present modification, the filter state detection unit (93) clogs the outside air filter (27) by comparing the measured value Xsa_m of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) with the estimated value Xsa_e. May be configured to detect. In this case, the filter state detection unit (93) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) as follows.

  During the dehumidifying operation, if the measured value Xsa_m of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) is lower than the estimated value Xsa_e, the air volume passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is reduced to the outside air filter (27 ) In the initial state. Therefore, the filter state detection unit (93) during the dehumidifying operation clogs the outside air filter (27) when the measured value Xsa_m of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) is lower than the estimated value Xsa_e to some extent. It is determined that the process is in progress, and a “filter exchange sign” is displayed.

  If the measured value Xsa_m of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) exceeds the estimated value Xsa_e during the humidification operation, the air volume passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is reduced by the outside air filter (27 ) In the initial state. Therefore, the filter state detection unit (93) during the humidifying operation clogs the outside air filter (27) when the measured value Xsa_m of the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) exceeds the estimated value Xsa_e to some extent. It is determined that the process is in progress, and a “filter exchange sign” is displayed.

  As described above, this modification does not calculate the estimated value itself of “the air volume passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52)” as in the above embodiment, but the adsorption heat exchanger (51 , 52) is the same as the above embodiment in that the correlation between the amount of change in the absolute humidity of the air and the flow rate of the air passing therethrough is utilized. Therefore, the filter state detector (93) of this modification also passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) substantially based on the amount of change in the absolute humidity of the air in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). The air flow rate is estimated.

—Modification 3 of Embodiment—
In the humidity control device (10) that does not perform ventilation in the above embodiment, the detected values of the room air temperature sensor (63) and the room air humidity sensor (73), the air supply temperature sensor (62), and the air supply humidity sensor (72 ) Of the outside air filter (27) may be detected based on the detected value. In this modification, the inside air temperature sensor (63) and the inside air humidity sensor (73) constitute an inlet side humidity detecting means together with the controller (90). The supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity sensor (72) together with the controller (90) constitute outlet side humidity detection means.

-Modification 4 of the embodiment-
In the above embodiment, the controller (90) may be provided with a timer for measuring the accumulated operation time of the humidity control apparatus (10) after filter replacement. In this modification, the controller (90) detects the clogging of the outside air filter (27) detected by the filter state detection unit (93) when the accumulated operation time measured by the timer reaches a predetermined reference value. Even if the status does not reach “filter replacement sign”, “filter replacement sign” is displayed. This timer is used to cut off the replacement determination of the outside air filter (27).

<< Embodiment 2 of the Invention >>
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The present embodiment is obtained by changing the configuration of the controller (90) in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the first embodiment. Here, the difference between the present embodiment and the first embodiment will be described.

  The controller (90) of the present embodiment is configured to cause the humidity control device (10) to ventilate the room all day. In addition, the controller (90) detects the filter state from the normal operation in which the humidity control unit (92) controls the operation of the humidity controller (10) at a predetermined time of the night (for example, midnight). Switch to operation temporarily.

  In the filter state detection operation, the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) is fixed to a predetermined specified value, and the air volume of the air supply fan (26) is fixed to a predetermined specified value (for example, “medium”). The In this filter state detection operation, the filter state detector (93) of the controller (90) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27).

The filter state detection unit (93) of the present embodiment detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) only during the filter state detection operation. For this reason, the filter state detection unit (93) stores a database function represented by Expression 4.
Formula 4: Xsa = J (Xoa, Q) + K

  The database function of Equation 4 is obtained by excluding the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) from the parameters of the database function of Embodiment 1 shown in Equation 1 above. As described above, the operation frequency F of the compressor (53) is fixed to a predetermined specified value during the filter state detection operation. That is, the value of the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) is known when the filter state detection unit (93) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27). Therefore, the filter state detection unit (93) of the present embodiment uses the database function of Equation 4 in which the operating frequency F of the compressor (53) is excluded from the parameters to check the clogged state of the outside air filter (27). To detect.

-Operation of the filter status detector-
The operation of the filter state detection unit (93) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the filter state detection unit (93) detects the clogged state of the outside air filter (27), the air volume Q in the initial state corresponding to the set value of the air volume of the air supply fan (26) during the filter state detection operation Select (0). In this embodiment, since the set value of the air volume of the air supply fan (26) during the filter state detection operation is set to “medium”, Q (0) = QM (0) is set accordingly.

 In step ST20, the filter state detection unit (93) switches the operation of the humidity controller (10) from the normal operation to the filter state detection operation. During the filter state detection operation, the operation frequency of the compressor (53) and the air volume of the air supply fan (26) are fixed to a constant value, while the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated.

  The air volume estimation unit (94) proceeds from step ST20 to step ST21, and calculates the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA) and the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA). The operation of the air volume estimation unit (94) in step ST21 is the same as the operation performed by the air volume estimation unit (94) of the first embodiment in step ST11 of FIG.

  In subsequent step ST22, the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) using the database function shown in Expression 4. The operation of the air volume estimation unit (94) in step ST21 is the same as the operation performed by the air volume estimation unit (94) of Embodiment 1 in step ST12 of FIG. 10 except that the database function of Expression 4 is used.

  In subsequent step ST23, the filter state detection unit (93) performs the same operation as that performed by the filter state detection unit (93) of the first embodiment in step ST13 of FIG. The value of the air volume Q (0) in the initial state of the filter (27) is compared. And when the said Formula 3 is not materialized, a filter state detection part (93) transfers to step ST25, and resumes a normal driving | operation. On the other hand, when the above equation 3 is established, the filter state detection unit (93) shifts to step ST14 to display “filter replacement sign”, and then shifts to step ST25 to resume normal operation.

-Effect of Embodiment 2-
In the present embodiment, the filter state detection operation is performed so that the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) can be detected without considering the state of the refrigeration cycle of the refrigerant circuit (50). By maintaining the refrigeration cycle state of the refrigerant circuit (50) constant in the filter state detection operation, the operating frequency of the compressor (53) and the electric expansion valve ( 55) The air volume Q of the air passing through the outside air filter (27) can be estimated by the database function not including the opening degree, and the clogging state of the outside air filter (27) is detected from the air volume Q. be able to. In other words, considering the change in the absolute humidity of the outdoor air (OA) and the absolute humidity of the supply air (SA) as the state of the air supplied from the outside to the room, the clogged state of the outdoor air filter (27) is determined. Can be detected. Therefore, since the detection of the clogging state of the outside air filter (27) is simplified and errors are less likely to occur, the detection accuracy of the clogging state of the outside air filter (27) can be improved.

<< Embodiment 3 of the Invention >>
Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, the configuration of the filter state detection unit (93) of the first embodiment is changed. Here, the difference from the first embodiment will be described for the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment is provided with an exhaust temperature sensor (64) and an exhaust humidity sensor (74). The exhaust temperature sensor (64) and the exhaust humidity sensor (74) are provided in the exhaust side flow path (31). In the exhaust side flow path (31), the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) flows. The exhaust temperature sensor (64) measures the temperature of the air flowing through the exhaust side flow path (31). The exhaust humidity sensor (74) measures the relative humidity of the outdoor air flowing through the exhaust side flow path (31). The exhaust temperature sensor (64) and the exhaust humidity sensor (74) together with the controller (90) constitute outlet side humidity detection means for detecting the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). .

  Moreover, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of this embodiment, the inside air temperature sensor (63) and the inside air humidity sensor (73) together with the controller (90) are the absolute air upstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). An inlet side humidity detecting means for detecting humidity is configured.

  In the controller (90) of the present embodiment, the air volume estimation unit (94) not only provides the flow rate of air supplied from the outside to the room (that is, the supply air flow rate) but also the flow rate of air discharged from the room to the outside ( That is, the exhaust flow rate) is also estimated. The operation of the air volume estimating unit (94) estimating the supply air flow rate is the same as that in the first embodiment. Here, the operation in which the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the exhaust gas flow rate will be described.

The air volume estimation unit (94) of the present embodiment stores a database function shown in Expression 5.
Formula 5: Xea = J (Xra, Q ′, F) + K

  The database function of Expression 5 is obtained by replacing Xsa with Xea, Xoa with Xra, and Q with Q ′ in the database function of Expression 1. Xea is the absolute humidity of the exhaust air (EA) (ie, the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52)), and Xra is the absolute humidity of the room air (RA) (ie, the adsorption heat exchanger ( Q 'represents the air volume of the exhaust fan (25) (that is, the flow rate of air passing through the inside air filter (28)). The database function of Expression 5 is determined by the same method as the database function of Expression 1.

  The air volume estimation unit (94) of the present embodiment calculates the absolute humidity Xra of the indoor air (RA) using the detected value of the indoor air temperature sensor (63) and the detected value of the indoor air humidity sensor (73), and exhaust gas The absolute humidity Xea of the exhaust air (EA) is calculated using the detected value of the temperature sensor (64) and the detected value of the exhaust humidity sensor (74). The air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the air volume Q ′ of the exhaust fan (25) using the calculated absolute humidity Xra of the indoor air (RA), the absolute humidity Xea of the exhaust air (EA), and the database function of Expression 5. presume. The operation in which the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the air volume Q ′ of the exhaust fan (25) is the same as the operation in which the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the air volume Q of the supply fan (26).

  In the controller (90) of the present embodiment, the filter state detection unit (93) detects not only the clogged state of the outside air side filter (27) but also the clogged state of the inside air side filter (28). It is configured. The operation of the filter state detection unit (93) detecting the clogged state of the outside air filter (27) is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  An operation in which the filter state detection unit (93) detects the clogged state of the inside air filter (28) will be described. The filter state detection unit (93) compares the estimated value calculated by the air volume estimation unit (94) with the reference value in the initial state of the inside air filter (28) for the air volume Q ′ of the exhaust fan (25). . When the estimated value is 90% or less of the reference value, the filter state detection unit (93) determines that the inside air filter (28) is clogged, and the “filter replacement sign” Is displayed.

<< Embodiment 4 of the Invention >>
Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment performs control on the air supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) so that the air supply flow rate and the exhaust flow rate are kept constant in the third embodiment. It is what. Here, the difference from the third embodiment will be described with respect to the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the humidity controller (10) of the present embodiment includes an inlet side temperature sensor (66), an inlet side humidity sensor (76), an outlet side temperature sensor (67), and an outlet side humidity. And a sensor (77). These sensors (66, 67, 76, 77) are all installed in the first heat exchanger chamber (37).

  The inlet side temperature sensor (66) and the inlet side humidity sensor (76) are parts of the first heat exchanger chamber (37) on the upstream side of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) (that is, the rear panel (13)). It is installed at the side of the side. The inlet side temperature sensor (66) measures the temperature of the air before passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). The inlet side humidity sensor (76) measures the relative humidity of the air before passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). The inlet side temperature sensor (66) and the inlet side humidity sensor (76) together with the controller (90) constitute an inlet side humidity detecting means for detecting the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). ing.

  The outlet side temperature sensor (67) and the outlet side humidity sensor (77) are parts of the first heat exchanger chamber (37) on the downstream side of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) (that is, the front panel (12)). It is installed at the side of the side. The outlet side temperature sensor (67) measures the temperature of the air after passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). The outlet side humidity sensor (77) measures the relative humidity of the air after passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). The outlet side temperature sensor (67) and the outlet side humidity sensor (77), together with the controller (90), constitute outlet side humidity detecting means for detecting the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). ing.

  As shown in FIG. 15, in the controller (90) of this embodiment, the air supply side control part (95) and the exhaust side control part (96) are provided in the fan control part (91). In the fan control unit (91) of the present embodiment, the target value (target air supply amount) of the supply air (SA) supplied into the room and the target value of the flow rate of exhaust air (EA) exhausted outside the room (Target displacement) is set. These target air supply amount and target exhaust air amount may be appropriately determined by an installation operator according to indoor conditions when installing the humidity control apparatus (10), or may be appropriately set by a user using a remote controller or the like. .

  The air supply side control unit (95) adjusts the rotational speed of the air supply fan (26) so that the air supply amount of the air supply fan (26) is maintained at the target air supply amount. The exhaust side control unit (96) adjusts the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (25) so that the air flow rate of the exhaust fan (25) is maintained at the target exhaust amount. Control operations performed by the air supply side control unit (95) and the exhaust side control unit (96) will be described later.

  In the air volume estimation unit (94) of the present embodiment, the database function represented by Expression 1 and the database function represented by Expression 5 are stored as in the case of Embodiment 3. The air volume estimation unit (94) includes a detection value of the inlet side temperature sensor (66), a detection value of the inlet side humidity sensor (76), a detection value of the outlet side temperature sensor (67), and the outlet side humidity. The detection value of the sensor (77) is input. The air volume estimation unit (94) uses the detected values of the sensors (66, 67, 76, 77) and the two database functions, and the flow rate of the supply air (SA) supplied into the room and is discharged outside the room. Estimate the flow rate of exhaust air (EA). The operation of the air volume estimation unit (94) will be described later.

-Controller control action-
When the dehumidifying operation and the humidifying operation are performed over a long period of time, dust in the outdoor air gradually accumulates in the outdoor air filter (27), and the pressure loss of air when passing through the outdoor air filter (27) increases. Similarly, dust in room air gradually accumulates in the room air filter (28), and the pressure loss of air when passing through the room air filter (28) increases. Furthermore, dust that has not been collected by the filters (27, 28) adheres to the surface of the fins (57) of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) and accumulates, and the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). ) Increases the pressure loss of the air as it passes through.

  Thus, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of this embodiment, the pressure loss when air passes through the casing (11) gradually increases. Therefore, if the input to the air supply fan (26) and exhaust fan (25) is kept constant, the flow rate of supply air (SA) supplied to the room and exhaust air (EA) discharged to the outside Will gradually decrease. Therefore, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the fan control unit (91) of the controller (90) performs a predetermined control operation to keep the air volume of each fan (25, 26) at the target air volume.

  The fan control unit (91) of the present embodiment alternately performs control on the air supply fan (26) and control on the exhaust fan (25) in conjunction with switching between the first operation and the second operation.

  Specifically, in the second operation of the dehumidifying operation and the first operation of the humidifying operation, the outdoor air sucked by the air supply fan (26) passes through the first heat exchanger chamber (37). During these operations, the air volume estimation unit (94) includes the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA) calculated from the detection values of the inlet side temperature sensor (66) and the inlet side humidity sensor (76), and the outlet side temperature sensor. (67) and the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA) calculated from the detected value of the outlet side humidity sensor (77) and the database function of Equation 1 are used to pass through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). Estimate the flow rate of air (ie, the flow rate of supply air (SA)). The air supply side control unit (95) compares the estimated value of the flow rate of the supply air (SA) estimated by the air volume estimating unit (94) with the target air supply amount so that the estimated value becomes the target air supply amount. Adjust the rotation speed of the air supply fan (26).

  Here, when the estimated value of the supply air (SA) flow rate is below the target supply air amount, the supply side control unit (95) sets the estimated value of the supply air (SA) flow rate to the target supply air amount. The rotational speed of the air supply fan (26) necessary for approaching is calculated, and the actual rotational speed of the air supply fan (26) is increased to the calculated value. As a result, the flow rate of the supply air (SA) is maintained at the target supply air amount.

  On the other hand, in the first operation of the dehumidifying operation and the second operation of the humidifying operation, the room air sucked by the exhaust fan (25) passes through the first heat exchanger chamber (37). During these operations, the air volume estimation unit (94) includes the absolute humidity Xra of the indoor air (RA) calculated from the detected values of the inlet side temperature sensor (66) and the inlet side humidity sensor (76), and the outlet side temperature sensor. (67) and the absolute humidity Xea of the exhaust air (EA) calculated from the detected value of the outlet side humidity sensor (77) and the database function of Equation 5 are used to pass through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). Estimate the flow rate of air (ie, the flow rate of exhaust air (EA)). The exhaust side control unit (96) compares the estimated value of the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) estimated by the air volume estimation unit (94) with the target exhaust amount, and the exhaust fan so that the estimated value becomes the target exhaust amount. Adjust the rotation speed of (25).

  Here, when the estimated value of the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) is below the target displacement, the exhaust side control unit (96) makes the estimated value of the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) close to the target displacement. The required rotational speed of the exhaust fan (25) is calculated, and the actual rotational speed of the exhaust fan (25) is increased to the calculated value. As a result, the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) is maintained at the target displacement.

  The control of the air supply fan (26) by the air supply side control unit (95) and the control of the exhaust fan (25) by the exhaust side control unit (96) are performed each time the first operation and the second operation are switched. It is not always necessary to do this. For example, it may be done at intervals of several hours or every other day.

  As in the case of the third embodiment, the filter state detection unit (93) of the present embodiment detects both the clogged state of the outside air side filter (27) and the clogged state of the inside air side filter (28). To detect.

  As described above, during the second operation of the dehumidifying operation or the first operation of the humidifying operation, the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the flow rate of the supply air (SA). The filter state detection unit (93) is configured to estimate the flow rate of the supply air (SA) obtained by the air volume estimation unit (94) and the supply air in the initial state where dust is not attached to the outside air filter (27) ( Compare the initial air supply flow rate, which is the flow rate of (SA). When the estimated value of the flow rate of the supply air (SA) is, for example, 90% or less of the initial supply air flow rate, the filter state detection unit (93) causes the outside air filter (27) to be clogged. It is determined that there is a filter replacement sign.

  Further, during the first operation of the dehumidifying operation and the second operation of the humidifying operation, the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA). The filter state detection unit (93) is configured to estimate the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) obtained by the air volume estimation unit (94) and the exhaust air in the initial state where dust is not attached to the inside air filter (28) ( Compare the initial exhaust flow rate, which is the flow rate of EA). When the estimated value of the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) is, for example, 90% or less of the initial exhaust flow rate, the filter state detection unit (93) is clogged with the inside air filter (28). And “filter replacement sign” is displayed.

-Modification 1 of Embodiment 4
In the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the inlet side temperature sensor (66), the inlet side humidity sensor (76), the outlet side temperature sensor (67), and the outlet side humidity sensor (77) are connected to the second side. You may provide in a heat exchanger chamber (38). In the second heat exchanger chamber (38) of the present modification, an inlet side temperature sensor (66) and an inlet side humidity sensor (76) are arranged upstream of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), and the second adsorption An outlet side temperature sensor (67) and an outlet side humidity sensor (77) are disposed downstream of the heat exchanger (52).

  In this modification, during the second operation of the dehumidifying operation or the first operation of the humidifying operation, the air volume estimating unit (94) estimates the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA), and the exhaust side control unit (96) is the exhaust fan. Adjust the rotation speed of (25). Further, in this modification, the air volume estimation unit (94) estimates the flow rate of the supply air (SA) during the first operation of the dehumidification operation or the second operation of the humidification operation, and the supply side control unit (95) Adjusts the rotation speed of the air supply fan (26).

-Modification 2 of Embodiment 4
Similarly to the humidity control apparatus (10) of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment includes an outside air temperature sensor (61), an outside air humidity sensor (71), and an air supply A temperature sensor (62), an air supply humidity sensor (72), an inside air temperature sensor (63), an inside air humidity sensor (73), an exhaust temperature sensor (64), and an exhaust humidity sensor (74) are provided. It may be.

  The fan control unit (91) of the present modification performs control on the air supply fan (26) and control on the exhaust fan (25) regardless of switching between the first operation and the second operation.

  Specifically, in both the first operation and the second operation, the air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA) from the detected values of the outdoor temperature sensor (61) and the outdoor air humidity sensor (71). The absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA) can be calculated from the detection values of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity sensor (72). Therefore, the air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the flow rate of the supply air (SA) using the absolute humidity Xoa of the outdoor air (OA), the absolute humidity Xsa of the supply air (SA), and the database function of Equation 1. Can be estimated. Then, the air supply side control unit (95) controls the rotation speed of the air supply fan (26) so that the estimated value of the flow rate of the supply air (SA) estimated by the air volume estimation unit (94) becomes the target air supply amount. Adjust.

  In both the first operation and the second operation, the air volume estimation unit (94) calculates the absolute humidity Xra of the room air (RA) from the detected values of the room air temperature sensor (63) and the room air humidity sensor (73). The absolute humidity Xea of the exhaust air (EA) can be calculated from the detection values of the exhaust temperature sensor (64) and the exhaust humidity sensor (74). Therefore, the air volume estimation unit (94) uses the absolute humidity Xra of the indoor air (RA), the absolute humidity Xea of the exhaust air (EA), and the database function of Equation 5 to calculate the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA). Can be estimated. Then, the air supply side control unit (95) adjusts the rotational speed of the exhaust fan (25) so that the estimated value of the flow rate of the exhaust air (EA) estimated by the air volume estimation unit (94) becomes the target exhaust amount. .

<< Other Embodiments >>
About the said embodiment, it is good also as the following structures.

-First modification-
In each of the above-described embodiments, the filter state detection unit (93) is configured such that the outside air filter (27) is clogged or the inside air filter (27) is in a state where the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated. Although the clogging state of 28) is detected, it is possible to detect the clogging state of the filter (27, 28) even if it is not in that state.

  For example, the clogged state of the filter (27, 28) can be detected by the following procedure.

  First, the operating state of the humidity control device (10) is maintained in the state during the first operation, and the regeneration of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is continuously performed for a relatively long time (for example, about 15 minutes). . Thereafter, the compressor (53) is stopped, and the first damper (41), the third damper (43), the fifth damper (45), and the seventh damper (47) are set in a closed state. Wait for the temperature of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) to drop.

  When the temperature of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is sufficiently lowered, the first damper (41) and the seventh damper (47) are opened to operate the air supply fan (26), and the first adsorption heat exchanger Supply outdoor air to (51). Since almost no moisture remains in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), moisture in the outdoor air is adsorbed by the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). At that time, the filter state detection unit (93) includes detection values of the outside air temperature sensor (61) and the outside air humidity sensor (71), detection values of the supply air temperature sensor (62) and the supply air humidity sensor (72), and Is entered.

  Thus, even when the moisture in the outdoor air is adsorbed to the sufficiently dried first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the difference in absolute humidity of the air before and after the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is It expands as the flow rate of air passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) decreases. Therefore, the filter state detection unit (93) of the present modification has a difference in the absolute humidity of the air before and after the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) in the initial state where dust is not attached to the outside air filter (27). Is stored as a reference humidity difference, and if the measured value of the absolute humidity difference before and after the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is larger than the reference humidity difference, the outside air filter (27) is clogged. It is determined that the flow rate of the outdoor air is decreasing.

-Second modification-
In the said embodiment, the humidity control apparatus (10) may be comprised as follows. As shown in FIG. 16, the humidity controller (10) of the first modified example includes a refrigerant circuit (100) and two adsorbing elements (111, 112). The refrigerant circuit (100) is a closed circuit in which a compressor (101), a condenser (102), an expansion valve (103), and an evaporator (104) are connected in order. When the refrigerant is circulated in the refrigerant circuit (100), a vapor compression refrigeration cycle is performed. This refrigerant circuit (100) constitutes heat source means. The first adsorbing element (111) and the second adsorbing element (112) each include an adsorbent such as zeolite and constitute a humidity control member. In addition, a large number of air passages are formed in each adsorption element (111, 112), and air contacts the adsorbent when passing through the air passages.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) repeats the first operation and the second operation. As shown in FIG. 10A, the humidity controller (10) in the first operation supplies air heated by the condenser (102) to the first adsorption element (111) to regenerate the adsorbent. On the other hand, the air deprived of moisture by the second adsorption element (112) is cooled by the evaporator (104). In addition, as shown in FIG. 10B, the humidity control apparatus (10) in the second operation supplies the air heated by the condenser (102) to the second adsorption element (112) and supplies the adsorbent. While regenerating, the air deprived of moisture by the first adsorption element (111) is cooled by the evaporator (104). The humidity control apparatus (10) includes a dehumidifying operation for supplying air dehumidified when passing through the adsorption element (111, 112) into the room, and the air humidified when passing through the adsorption element (111, 112) in the room. Switching between humidification operation to be supplied to.

-Third modification-
In the said embodiment, the humidity control apparatus (10) may be comprised as follows. As shown in FIG. 17, the humidity control apparatus (10) of the second modified example includes a humidity control unit (150). The humidity control unit (150) includes a Peltier element (153) and a pair of suction fins (151 and 152). The adsorption fins (151 and 152) are obtained by carrying an adsorbent such as zeolite on the surface of a so-called heat sink. The suction fins (151 and 152) constitute a humidity control member. The Peltier element (153) has a first suction fin (151) bonded to one surface and a second suction fin (152) bonded to the other surface. When direct current is passed through the Peltier element (153), one of the two suction fins (151, 152) becomes the heat absorption side and the other becomes the heat dissipation side. This Peltier element (153) constitutes a heat source means.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) repeats the first operation and the second operation. The humidity control unit (150) in the first operation regenerates the adsorbent of the first adsorption fin (151) on the heat dissipation side to humidify the air, while the second adsorption fin (152) on the heat absorption side. Moisture is adsorbed on the adsorbent and dehumidified. The humidity control unit (150) in the first operation regenerates the adsorbent of the second adsorption fin (152) on the heat dissipation side to humidify the air, while the first adsorption fin (on the heat absorption side) Adsorb moisture to the adsorbent of 151) to dehumidify the air. The humidity control apparatus (10) includes a dehumidifying operation for supplying air dehumidified when passing through the humidity control unit (150) to the room, and air humidified when passing through the humidity control unit (150). The operation is switched to the humidifying operation for supplying the air to the room.

  In addition, the above embodiment is an essentially preferable illustration, Comprising: It does not intend restrict | limiting the range of this invention, its application thing, or its use.

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

It is a perspective view which omits a part of casing and shows the humidity control apparatus of Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view, a right side view, and a left side view showing the humidity control apparatus of Embodiment 1 with a part of the casing omitted. FIG. 2 is a piping system diagram showing the configuration of the refrigerant circuit of the first embodiment, where (A) shows the operation during the first operation, and (B) shows the operation during the second operation. It is a schematic perspective view of an adsorption heat exchanger. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller according to the first embodiment. It is the top view of the humidity control apparatus which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of a dehumidification driving | operation, a right view, and a left view. It is the top view of the humidity control apparatus which shows the flow of the air in 2nd operation | movement of a dehumidification driving | operation, a right view, and a left view. It is the top view of the humidity control apparatus which shows the flow of the air in the 1st operation | movement of a humidification driving | operation, a right view, and a left view. It is the top view of the humidity control apparatus which shows the flow of the air in 2nd operation | movement of a humidification driving | operation, a right view, and a left view. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement which the air volume estimation part and filter state detection part of Embodiment 1 perform. It is a related figure of the absolute humidity and elapsed time of the 1st air and the 2nd air during the 1st operation and the 2nd operation changing alternately during dehumidification operation. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement which the air volume estimation part and filter state detection part of Embodiment 2 perform. It is the top view which omits a part of casing and shows the humidity control apparatus of Embodiment 3, a right view, and a left view. FIG. 6 is a plan view, a right side view, and a left side view showing the humidity control apparatus of Embodiment 4 with a part of the casing omitted. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller according to a fourth embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the humidity control apparatus in the 2nd modification of other embodiment, Comprising: (A) shows the operation | movement in 1st operation | movement, (B) shows the operation | movement in 2nd operation | movement. It is. It is a schematic perspective view of the humidity control unit in the 3rd modification of other embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

10 Humidity control device
25 Exhaust fan (fan)
26 Air supply fan (fan)
27 Outside air filter (filter member)
28 Inside air filter (filter member)
50 Refrigerant circuit
51 First adsorption heat exchanger (humidity control member)
52 Second adsorption heat exchanger (humidity control member)
53 Compressor
61 Outside air temperature sensor (inlet humidity detection means)
62 Supply air temperature sensor (exit side humidity detection means)
63 Inside air temperature sensor (inlet humidity detection means)
64 Exhaust temperature sensor (exit side humidity detection means)
66 Inlet side temperature sensor (Inlet side humidity detection means)
67 Outlet temperature sensor (exit side humidity detection means)
71 Outside air humidity sensor (inlet humidity detection means)
72 Air supply humidity sensor (exit side humidity detection means)
73 Inside air humidity sensor (inlet side humidity detection means)
74 Exhaust humidity sensor (exit side humidity detection means)
76 Inlet humidity sensor (Inlet humidity detector)
77 Exit side humidity sensor (exit side humidity detection means)
91 Fan control unit (fan control means)
93 Filter status detector (filter status detector)
94 Airflow estimation unit (airflow estimation means)
95 Supply side control section (Supply side control means)
96 Exhaust side control (exhaust side control means)
100 Refrigerant circuit
101 compressor
111 First adsorption element (humidity control member)
112 Second adsorption element (humidity control member)
151 1st adsorption fin (humidity control member)
152 2nd adsorption fin (humidity control member)

Claims (14)

A humidity control member (51, 52, ...) that has an adsorbent and makes the adsorbent come into contact with air, and adjusts the humidity of the taken-in air with the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) A humidity control device for supplying indoors,
Inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71, ...) for detecting the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...);
Outlet-side humidity detecting means (62, 72, ...) for detecting the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...);
Passes the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) based on the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71, ...) and the detected value of the outlet side humidity detecting means (62, 72, ...) A humidity control apparatus comprising air volume estimation means (94) for estimating a flow rate of air to be performed. In claim 1,
The air volume estimation means (94) is configured to detect the absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) As the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Decreases. And the phenomenon that the difference between the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Increases, the air that passes through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) A humidity control apparatus configured to estimate a flow rate. In claim 1,
The air volume estimation means (94)
The absolute humidity of the air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) In a state where the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is a predetermined reference value. While calculating the estimated value of the difference from the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the wet member (51, 52,...) Using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...)
When the difference between the detected value of the inlet-side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the detected value of the outlet-side humidity detecting means (62, 72,...) Is larger than the calculated estimated value. A humidity control apparatus, characterized in that it is determined that the flow rate of air passing through the dampening member (51, 52, ...) is less than the reference value. In claim 3,
While provided with a blower fan (25, 26) for supplying air to the humidity control member (51, 52, ...),
The air volume estimation means (94) includes an absolute humidity of air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) and an absolute humidity of air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...). A humidity control apparatus using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71, ...) and the rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26) when calculating the estimated value of the difference. In claim 3,
A refrigerant circuit (50, 100) that performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating refrigerant is provided, and the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...) Is regenerated using heat released from the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100). While configured into
The air volume estimation means (94) includes an absolute humidity of air upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) and an absolute humidity of air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...). When calculating the estimated value of the difference, the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And the capacity of the compressor (53, 101) provided in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100) are used. Humidity control device. In claim 1,
The air volume estimation means (94)
Estimated absolute humidity of air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) When the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is a predetermined reference value. Is calculated using the detected value of the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71, ...),
During the operation of adsorbing moisture in the air to the humidity control member (51, 52,...), The detected value of the outlet side humidity detecting means (62, 72,...) Is compared with the calculated estimated value. While determining that the flow rate of the air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) is lower than the reference value when low,
During the operation of imparting moisture desorbed from the humidity control member (51, 52,...) To the air, the outlet-side humidity detection means (62, 72,...) Is compared with the calculated estimated value. When the value is high, it is determined that the flow rate of air passing through the humidity control member (51, 52,...) Is less than the reference value. In claim 6,
While provided with a blower fan (25, 26) for supplying air to the humidity control member (51, 52, ...),
The air volume estimating means (94) calculates the estimated value of the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) When the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And a rotational speed of the blower fan (25, 26). In claim 6,
A refrigerant circuit (50, 100) that performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating refrigerant is provided, and the humidity adjusting member (51, 52,...) Is regenerated using heat released from the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100). While configured into
The air volume estimating means (94) calculates the estimated value of the absolute humidity of the air downstream of the humidity control member (51, 52,...) When the inlet side humidity detecting means (61, 71,...) And a capacity of a compressor (53, 101) provided in the refrigerant circuit (50, 100). In claim 1, 2, 3 or 6,
A plurality of humidity control members (51, 52,...)
A first operation for regenerating the first humidity control member (51,111,151) and simultaneously adsorbing moisture in the air to the second humidity control member (52,112,152), and the first humidity control member (51,111,151) The humidity control apparatus is configured to alternately and repeatedly perform the second operation of regenerating the second humidity control member (52, 112, 152) at the same time as adsorbing the moisture. In claim 9,
It is equipped with a refrigerant circuit (50) that circulates refrigerant to perform a refrigeration cycle,
An adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) that carries an adsorbent on the outer surface and is connected to the refrigerant circuit (50) is provided as the humidity control member,
The refrigerant circuit (50) includes an operation in which the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) serves as a condenser and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) serves as an evaporator, and the second adsorption heat exchanger ( The humidity control apparatus is configured so that the operation can be switched between the operation in which 52) becomes a condenser and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) becomes an evaporator. In claim 1, 2, 3 or 6,
A filter member (27, 28) disposed upstream of the humidity control member (51, 52, ...) to purify air;
And a filter state detecting means (93) for detecting a clogged state of the filter member (27, 28) using the estimated value of the air flow rate estimated by the air volume estimating means (94). Humidity control device. In claim 11,
Normal operation for supplying the air whose humidity is adjusted by the humidity control member (51, 52,...) While controlling the operation state of the component equipment,
A filter state detection operation in which the filter state detection means (93) detects the clogged state of the filter member (27, 28) while the operation state of the component device is kept constant can be selectively executed. A humidity control device characterized by that. In claim 1, 2, 3 or 6,
A casing (11) that forms an air passage for communicating the room and the outside, and a blower fan (25, 26) that is arranged in the air passage and conveys air, While it is configured to adjust the humidity with the members (51, 52, ...) and then supply it to the room,
The air flow estimation means (94) is used to estimate the air flow rate so that the flow rate of air supplied to the room is maintained at the target air flow rate even if the ventilation resistance in the air passage changes. A humidity control apparatus comprising a fan control means (91) for adjusting the blowing capacity of the blower fans (25, 26). In claim 13,
In the casing (11), an air supply passage and an exhaust passage are formed as the air passage, and an air supply fan (26) that is disposed in the air supply passage and supplies outdoor air to the room. And an exhaust fan (25) disposed in the exhaust passage and exhausting indoor air to the outside is housed as the blower fan,
The fan control means (91) blows air from the air supply fan (26) so that the flow rate of air supplied to the room is maintained at the target air supply amount even if the ventilation resistance in the air supply passage changes. Supply side control means (95) for adjusting the capacity, and the exhaust fan (25) so that the flow rate of the air discharged to the outside is maintained at the target exhaust amount even if the blowing resistance in the exhaust passage changes. The humidity control apparatus is characterized by comprising exhaust side control means (96) for adjusting the air blowing capacity.

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