JP2008256256A - Air conditioning device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an air conditioning device capable of humidifying a room by combining an adsorption heat exchanger and a humidifying means. <P>SOLUTION: This air conditioning device 1 comprises a refrigerant circuit 10 of a vapor compression type refrigerating cycle, a control portion 4 and the humidifying means 21. In the refrigerant circuit 10, a refrigerant is circulated successively through a compressor 11, an indoor heat exchanger 15, a first expansion valve 14a and an evaporating mechanism 13 in this order. The control portion 4 controls a refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant circuit 10. The humidifying means 21 humidifies the room. An adsorption heat exchanger 116 is further disposed at a high pressure side of the refrigerant circuit 10, and the adsorption heat exchanger 116 holds an adsorbent desorbing moisture at a high temperature. The evaporating mechanism 13 is disposed near the adsorption heat exchanger 116 and condenses the moisture from the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger 116. The humidifying means 21 humidifies the room by using the dew condensation water generated by the evaporating mechanism 13. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly to an air conditioner that can humidify a room during heating operation.

  In recent years, adsorbents that adsorb and desorb moisture have come to be used as humidifying means for air conditioners. A typical example is an adsorption heat exchanger, which is a heat exchanger in which an adsorbent mainly composed of zeolite particles is supported on the surface of a radiation fin. When the adsorption heat exchanger is an evaporator, the refrigerant depressurized by the expansion valve absorbs heat and evaporates, whereby the adsorbent is cooled, and moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. When the adsorption heat exchanger is a condenser, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor releases heat and condenses, whereby the adsorbent is heated and moisture is desorbed into the air.

For example, in a refrigerant circuit in which refrigerant circulates in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an adsorption heat exchanger, an expansion valve, and an outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor during the heating operation is the indoor heat exchanger And the adsorption heat exchanger, the refrigerant is expanded by the expansion valve, evaporated by the outdoor heat exchanger, and sucked into the compressor. At this time, by allowing the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger to flow into the room, the moisture released from the adsorbent diffuses with the air and the room is humidified (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2005-114291 A

  However, when the adsorption heat exchanger itself is used as a humidifying means, an operation for adsorbing moisture to the adsorption heat exchanger and an operation for desorbing moisture are required. During the operation for adsorbing moisture, The air conditioner cannot humidify the room. In order to fully exhibit the function of the adsorption heat exchanger, it is preferable to combine it with other humidifying means, but an invention relating thereto is not disclosed yet.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner that humidifies a room by combining an adsorption heat exchanger and humidifying means.

  An air conditioner according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a refrigerant circuit of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle, a control unit, and humidification means. In the refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor, the condenser, the first expansion mechanism, and the evaporation mechanism. The control unit controls the refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant circuit. The humidifying means humidifies the room. An adsorption heat exchanger is further provided on the high pressure side of the refrigerant circuit, and the adsorption heat exchanger carries an adsorbent that desorbs moisture at a high temperature. The evaporation mechanism is disposed in the vicinity of the adsorption heat exchanger and condenses moisture from the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger. The humidifying means humidifies the room using the condensed water generated by the evaporation mechanism.

  In this air conditioner, the adsorption heat exchanger becomes a high temperature as a radiator, and the adsorbent desorbs moisture. Since the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger contains moisture desorbed from the adsorbent, dew condensation water generated by the evaporation mechanism increases as compared with the case where there is no adsorption heat exchanger. Since the condensed water is replenished as water for humidification, a decrease in humidification capacity due to water shortage is prevented.

  An air conditioner according to a second aspect is the air conditioner according to the first aspect, wherein the evaporation mechanism includes a first evaporator and a second evaporator. The refrigerant circuit is further provided with a second expansion mechanism that depressurizes the refrigerant entering the second evaporator.

  In this air conditioner, since the refrigerant decompressed by the first expansion mechanism is further decompressed by the second expansion mechanism and evaporated by the second evaporator, the temperature of the second evaporator becomes lower than the temperature of the first evaporator. . As a result, more condensed water is generated than the amount of condensed water generated by the first evaporator alone, so that there is no shortage of humidifying water.

  An air conditioner according to a third aspect of the present invention is the air conditioner according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, wherein the refrigerant circuit is further provided with a third expansion mechanism capable of depressurizing the refrigerant entering the adsorption heat exchanger. Yes.

  In this air conditioner, the control unit controls the third expansion mechanism as necessary to depressurize the refrigerant and lower the temperature of the adsorption heat exchanger. At this time, since the adsorbent is cooled, the adsorbent stops moisture desorption and adsorbs moisture. As a result, water for the next desorption is replenished.

  An air conditioner according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioner according to the first aspect of the present invention or the second aspect of the present invention, wherein in the refrigerant circuit, the first portion of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor is allowed to flow to the adsorption heat exchanger. An on-off valve is further provided.

  In this air conditioner, the controller closes the first on-off valve as necessary and cuts off the flow of the refrigerant toward the adsorption heat exchanger, so that the temperature of the adsorption heat exchanger decreases, the adsorbent is naturally cooled, and the adsorption The agent stops moisture desorption and adsorbs moisture. As a result, water for the next desorption is replenished.

  An air conditioner according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioner according to the second aspect of the present invention, wherein the refrigerant circuit includes a second opening / closing that allows a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to flow to the second evaporator. A valve is further provided.

  In this air conditioner, the control unit opens the second on-off valve as necessary to flow the refrigerant to the second evaporator. When the second evaporator is frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor is flowed to the second evaporator without changing the circulation direction of the refrigerant circuit, so that it can be quickly defrosted and thawed.

  An air conditioner according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the air conditioner according to the second aspect of the present invention, wherein the refrigerant circuit is further provided with a four-way switching valve. The four-way switching valve can flow refrigerant from the compressor to the condenser or the first evaporator and the second evaporator by switching the flow path. When at least one of the first evaporator and the second evaporator is frosted, the control unit controls the four-way switching valve to switch the refrigerant flow path, and causes the refrigerant to flow through the first evaporator and the second evaporator.

  In this air conditioner, when the first evaporator and the second evaporator are frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor is caused to flow to the first evaporator and the second evaporator. can do.

  An air conditioner according to a seventh aspect of the present invention includes a refrigerant circuit of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle, a control unit, and humidification means. In the refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor, the adsorption heat exchanger, the expansion mechanism, and the evaporator. An adsorbent that desorbs moisture at a high temperature is supported on the surface of the adsorption heat exchanger. The evaporator condenses moisture from the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger. The control unit controls the refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant circuit. The humidifying means humidifies the room. The evaporator is disposed in the vicinity of the adsorption heat exchanger. The humidifying means humidifies the room using the condensed water generated in the evaporator.

  In this air conditioner, the adsorption heat exchanger becomes a high temperature as a condenser, and the adsorbent desorbs moisture. The evaporator becomes cold and causes moisture in the air to condense. Since the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger contains moisture desorbed from the adsorbent, the condensed water generated in the evaporator increases as compared to the case where there is no adsorption heat exchanger. Since the condensed water is replenished as humidifying water for the humidifying means, a reduction in humidification capacity due to water shortage is prevented.

  An air conditioner according to an eighth invention is the air conditioner according to the seventh invention, wherein the refrigerant circuit is further provided with a four-way switching valve. The four-way switching valve can flow the refrigerant from the compressor to the adsorption heat exchanger or the evaporator by switching the flow path. When the evaporator forms frost, the control unit controls the four-way switching valve to switch the refrigerant flow path, and causes the refrigerant to flow through the evaporator.

  In this air conditioner, when the evaporator is frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor is caused to flow through the evaporator, so that it can be quickly defrosted and melted.

  In the air conditioner according to the first aspect of the present invention, the amount of condensed water generated by the evaporation mechanism increases as compared with the case where there is no adsorption heat exchanger. Since the condensed water is replenished as humidifying water for the humidifying means, a reduction in humidification capacity due to water shortage is prevented.

  In the air conditioner according to the second invention, the temperature of the second evaporator is lower than the temperature of the first evaporator. As a result, more condensed water is generated than the amount of condensed water generated by the first evaporator alone, so that there is no shortage of humidifying water.

  In the air conditioner according to the third aspect of the invention, the adsorbent is cooled as necessary, so that the adsorbent stops the desorption of moisture and adsorbs moisture. As a result, water for the next desorption is replenished.

  In the air conditioner according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the adsorbent is naturally cooled as necessary, and the adsorbent stops moisture desorption and adsorbs moisture. As a result, water for the next desorption is replenished.

  In the air conditioner according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the second evaporator is frosted or frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor is caused to flow to the second evaporator without changing the circulation direction of the refrigerant circuit. It can be quickly defrosted and thawed.

  In the air conditioner according to the sixth aspect of the invention, when the first evaporator and the second evaporator are frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor is caused to flow to the first evaporator and the second evaporator. Can be defrosted and thawed.

  In the air conditioner according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the amount of condensed water generated in the evaporator increases compared to the case where there is no adsorption heat exchanger. Since the condensed water is replenished as humidifying water for the humidifying means, a reduction in humidification capacity due to water shortage is prevented.

  In the air conditioning apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the invention, when the evaporator is frosted or frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor is caused to flow through the evaporator, so that it can be quickly defrosted and melted.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are specific examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[First Embodiment]
<Schematic configuration of air conditioner>
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the air conditioning apparatus 1 includes a refrigerant circuit 10 through which a refrigerant flows. The refrigerant circuit 10 is formed by connecting a compressor 11, a four-way switching valve 12, an evaporation mechanism 13, a first expansion valve 14a, an indoor heat exchanger 15, an accumulator 20, and the like. The refrigerant leaving the compressor 11 flows to either the evaporation mechanism 13 or the indoor heat exchanger 15 by the four-way switching valve 12.

  For example, during the heating operation, the control unit 4 causes the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1 and causes the refrigerant to flow to the indoor heat exchanger 15. On the other hand, during the cooling operation, the control unit 4 causes the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path indicated by the dotted line in FIG. The first expansion valve 14a depressurizes the refrigerant by narrowing the refrigerant flow path. The accumulator 20 accumulates excess liquid refrigerant and returns only the gas refrigerant to the compressor 11.

  In the refrigerant circuit 10, an adsorption heat exchanger 116 is further provided between the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the first expansion valve 14a. In the evaporation mechanism 13, the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b are connected in parallel and function as an evaporator. In particular, the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is intended to dew moisture in the air.

  An adsorption agent mainly composed of zeolite is supported on the surface of the adsorption heat exchanger 116. The adsorbent is not limited to zeolite, but silica gel, activated carbon, organic polymer polymer material having hydrophilicity or water absorption, ion exchange resin material having carboxylic acid group or sulfonic acid group, high temperature sensitivity. It is selected from functional polymer materials such as molecules.

  In the refrigerant circuit 10, a second expansion valve 14b is provided between the first expansion valve 14a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b, and a third expansion valve 14c is provided between the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the adsorption heat exchanger 116. Is provided. Since the second expansion valve 14b further depressurizes the refrigerant depressurized by the first expansion valve 14a, the evaporating temperature of the refrigerant in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is lower than the evaporating temperature of the refrigerant in the outdoor heat exchanger 13a. The temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is lower than the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 13a. The third expansion valve 14c serves to depressurize the refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger 15 to the adsorption heat exchanger 116, but is normally open.

  Humidifying means 21 is disposed in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger 15. The humidifying means 21 gives appropriate moisture to the air that passes through the indoor heat exchanger 15 and is blown into the room. Water supplied to the humidifying means 21 is stored in the tank 23. The water in the tank 23 is water obtained by purifying the dew condensation water generated in the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. The water is pumped up by the pump 25 and conveyed to the humidifying means 21 through the hose 22. . The humidifying means 21 is selected from an ultrasonic humidifier, a heating humidifier, and a spray humidifier.

  In this embodiment, the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the humidifying means 21 are on the indoor unit 3 side, and the others are on the outdoor unit 2 side. The control unit 4 includes a CPU and a memory, and controls each device of the air conditioner 1.

<Outdoor unit 2>
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing structures of an outdoor unit and a water collecting unit of the air conditioner. In FIG. 2, a water collecting unit 7 that collects moisture from the air by condensation is disposed above the outdoor unit 2. The water collection unit 7 includes an adsorption heat exchanger 116, a dew condensation heat exchanger 13b, and a drain pan 31b. The drain pan 31b is located below the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b and causes dew condensation water generated by the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b to flow downward. A vent hole 102 is provided on the wall surface of the water catching unit 7, from which outside air is sucked. The sucked outside air becomes an air flow A, passes through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 and the condensation heat exchanger 13b, and enters the outdoor unit 2 through the internal vent 103.

  In the outdoor unit 2, the compressor 11, the four-way switching valve 12, the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, and the drain pan 31a shown in FIG. 1 are arranged. In addition, an outdoor fan 81 is also arranged, and sucks outside air by rotating and applies outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger 13a to actively exchange heat with the refrigerant. A blower outlet 105 is provided on the wall surface of the outdoor unit 2, and air exchanged by the outdoor heat exchanger 13 a is blown out. The outside air that has entered the outdoor unit 2 from the internal vent 103 is also heat-exchanged by the outdoor heat exchanger 13 a and blown out from the blowout port 105.

  A water supply unit 26 is arranged below the outdoor unit 2. The water supply unit 26 includes a hose 22, a tank 23 and a pump 25. The water in the tank 23 is pumped up by the pump 25 and conveyed to the humidifying means 21 through the hose 22. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the tank. In FIG. 3, condensed water flows into the inside of the water purification tank 32 from the inlet 32a. The water purified in the water purification tank 32 flows into the tank 23 through the second electromagnetic valve 34. The water in the tank 23 is pumped up by the pump 25 from the bottom side of the tank 23.

  A first solenoid valve 33 and a second solenoid valve 34 are connected below the water purification tank 32. The water that has passed through the first electromagnetic valve 33 is discharged from the drain port 51. The water that has passed through the second electromagnetic valve 34 enters the tank 23. A third electromagnetic valve 35 is connected to the bottom surface side of the tank 23, and water that has passed through the third electromagnetic valve 35 is discharged from the drain 51. The pump 25 draws water from the bottom surface side of the tank 23 and sends it to the three-way valve 36, and the water is supplied from the three-way valve 36 to the humidifying means 21.

  The water in the tank 23 is irradiated with ultraviolet rays from an ultraviolet lamp 37 for sterilization. Although the ultraviolet lamp 37 is attached to the upper part of the tank 23, since the installation is easy, workability | operativity is good. The sterilizing means is not limited to the ultraviolet lamp 37, and may be, for example, an ozone generator.

  Further, when the air conditioner 1 is installed in a cold region, a heater is disposed in the vicinity of the tank 23 or in the tank 23 in order to prevent the water in the tank 23 from freezing. The heater does not need to be operating at all times, but only when the outside temperature reaches below freezing point.

  The heater may be any heating means that can prevent the water in the tank 23 from freezing. For example, in the case of an electric heater, it is selected from nichrome wire, sheathed heater, carbon heater, ceramic heater, seat heater and the like. It is also possible to select a heat pump type in which piping on the high pressure side (compressor outlet, condenser outlet, etc.) in the refrigeration cycle is heated by being drawn to the lower part of the tank 23 or in the vicinity thereof. Furthermore, two compressors can be connected in parallel, and one compressor can be arranged in the vicinity of the tank 23 to heat the water in the tank 23 by the heat radiation of the compressor.

<Water circulation path>
FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing a water circulation path. As shown in FIG. 4, the inside of the water purification tank 32 is divided into a first tank 321 and a second tank 322 by a water purification filter 323, and the water that has entered the water purification tank 32 is first supplied to the first tank 321. It is stored, and then passes through the water purification filter 323 and is stored in the second tank 322. When water passes through the water purification filter 323, impurities contained in the water are removed by the water purification filter 323. Such a water purification means is easy to install without increasing the size.

  When the inside of the first tank 321 is full, the first electromagnetic valve 33 opens the flow path and drains water. The water in the second tank 322 flows into the tank 23 when the second electromagnetic valve 34 opens the flow path. When the tank 23 is full, the second electromagnetic valve 34 closes the flow path. When the water in the tank 23 becomes unnecessary, the third electromagnetic valve 35 opens the flow path and drains it.

  The three-way valve 36 not only supplies the water sent from the pump 25 to the humidifying means 21 but also returns the water to the second tank 322 of the water purification tank 32 as necessary. By returning water to the 2nd tank 322, the water after purified water is forced to flow through the purified water filter 323 to the water side before purified water, and the purified water filter 323 is cleaned. That is, water flows backward from the second tank 322 to the first tank 321, and impurities accumulated on the surface of the water purification filter 323 are returned to the first tank 321. At this time, when the first electromagnetic valve 33 opens the flow path, the water in the first tank 321 can be discharged while removing impurities accumulated on the water purification filter 323.

<Operation of air conditioner>
The air conditioner 1 can switch between the cooling operation and the heating operation by changing the flow path of the refrigerant with the four-way switching valve 12. This embodiment demonstrates the case where the refrigerant circuit is a circuit for heating operation.

  During the heating operation, the control unit 4 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1 and causes the compressor 11 and the indoor heat exchanger 15 to communicate with each other. Since the third expansion valve 14c is normally open, the indoor heat exchanger 15 and the adsorption heat exchanger 116 function as a condenser. The outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b function as an evaporator. That is, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 is introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 15, and the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 15 is introduced into the adsorption heat exchanger 116 after exchanging heat with indoor air. The refrigerant in the adsorption heat exchanger 116 also exchanges heat with the outside air. As a result, the temperature of the refrigerant decreases, and the medium temperature / high pressure state is reached.

  The refrigerant that has exited the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is decompressed by the first expansion valve 14a, part of it is introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, and the others are further decompressed by the second expansion valve 14b to the condensation heat exchanger 13b. be introduced. Since the control unit 4 controls the second expansion valve 14b to set the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature of the outside air, the temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is set to the outdoor heat exchanger. It becomes lower than the temperature of 13a. As a result, even when the dew point temperature of the outside air is low and no dew condensation occurs in the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, dew condensation always occurs in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b.

  Further, in the adsorption heat exchanger 116, the refrigerant heats the adsorbent to desorb moisture contained in the adsorbent into the air, so that the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is desorbed from the adsorbent. Contains released moisture. Since the moisture is also condensed when passing through the condensation heat exchanger 13b, the condensation water generated in the condensation heat exchanger 13b is larger than that in the case where the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is not provided. The refrigerant that has exited the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the refrigerant that has exited the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b are sucked into the compressor 11 again.

  Since the moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger 116 decreases as the heating time increases, it is preferable to adsorb moisture regularly. In the present embodiment, the control unit 4 periodically squeezes the refrigerant flow path with the third expansion valve 14c to depressurize the refrigerant, evaporates the refrigerant with the adsorption heat exchanger 116, and cools the adsorbent. As a result, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent.

<Modification of First Embodiment>
FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. In FIG. 5, the air conditioner 101 includes a refrigerant circuit 110. In the evaporation mechanism 13 of the refrigerant circuit 110, the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, the second expansion valve 14b, and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b are connected in series.

  The refrigerant exiting the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is depressurized by the first expansion valve 14a and introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 13a to absorb heat. The refrigerant that has exited the outdoor heat exchanger 13a is further decompressed by the second expansion valve 14b and introduced into the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. Since the control unit 4 controls the second expansion valve 14b to set the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature of the outside air, the temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is set to the outdoor heat exchanger. It becomes lower than the temperature of 13a. As a result, even when the dew point temperature of the outside air is low and no dew condensation occurs in the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, dew condensation always occurs in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b.

<Features of First Embodiment>
(1)
In the refrigerant circuit 10 (or 110) of the air conditioner 1 (or 101), the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor 11, the indoor heat exchanger 15, the adsorption heat exchanger 116, the first expansion valve 14a, and the evaporation mechanism 13. . The adsorption heat exchanger 116 carries an adsorbent that desorbs moisture at a high temperature. The evaporation mechanism 13 is disposed in the vicinity of the adsorption heat exchanger 116 and condenses moisture from the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger 116. The humidifying means 21 humidifies the room using the condensed water generated by the evaporation mechanism 13.

  The adsorption heat exchanger 116 becomes a high temperature as a radiator and the adsorbent desorbs moisture. Since the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 contains moisture desorbed from the adsorbent, the dew condensation water generated in the evaporation mechanism 13 increases as compared with the case where the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is not provided. Since the condensed water is replenished as water for humidification, a decrease in humidification capacity due to water shortage is prevented.

(2)
The evaporation mechanism 13 includes an outdoor heat exchanger 13a and a dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. A second expansion valve 14b that further depressurizes the refrigerant entering the condensation heat exchanger 13b is further provided on the upstream side of the refrigerant flow of the condensation heat exchanger 13b. Since the refrigerant decompressed by the first expansion valve 14a is further decompressed by the second expansion valve 14b, the temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b becomes lower than the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 13a. As a result, more condensed water is generated than the amount of condensed water generated by the outdoor heat exchanger 13a alone, so that humidification water is not insufficient.

(3)
A third expansion valve 14 c that can depressurize the refrigerant entering the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is further provided on the upstream side of the refrigerant flow of the adsorption heat exchanger 116. The control unit 4 controls the third expansion valve 14c as necessary to depressurize the refrigerant and lower the temperature of the adsorption heat exchanger 116. At this time, since the adsorbent is cooled, the adsorbent stops moisture desorption and adsorbs moisture. As a result, water for the next desorption is replenished.

(4)
The refrigerant circuit 10 (or 110) is further provided with a four-way switching valve 12. The four-way switching valve 12 can flow the refrigerant from the compressor 11 to the indoor heat exchanger 15 or the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b by switching the flow path. When at least one of the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is frosted, the control unit 4 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to switch the refrigerant flow path, thereby switching the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger. A refrigerant is passed through 13b. When the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b are frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant from the compressor flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b, so that the defrost and thaw quickly. Can do.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

<Schematic configuration of air conditioner>
FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, the air conditioning apparatus 201 includes a refrigerant circuit 210 through which refrigerant flows. The refrigerant circuit 210 is formed by connecting the compressor 11, the four-way switching valve 12, the evaporation mechanism 13, the first expansion valve 14a, the indoor heat exchanger 15, the accumulator 20, and the like. The control unit 204 includes a CPU and a memory, and controls each device of the air conditioning apparatus 201.

  The refrigerant leaving the compressor 11 flows to either the evaporation mechanism 13 or the indoor heat exchanger 15 by the four-way switching valve 12. For example, at the time of heating operation, the control unit 204 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path shown by the solid line in FIG. 6 to flow the refrigerant to the indoor heat exchanger 15 side. On the other hand, during the cooling operation, the control unit 204 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path indicated by the dotted line in FIG. The first expansion valve 14a depressurizes the refrigerant by narrowing the refrigerant flow path. The accumulator 20 stores excess liquid refrigerant and returns only the gas refrigerant to the compressor 11.

  In the evaporation mechanism 13 of the refrigerant circuit 210, an outdoor heat exchanger 13a, a second expansion valve 14b, and a dew condensation heat exchanger 13b are connected in series. Both the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b function as an evaporator. In particular, the dew heat exchanger 13b is intended to dew moisture in the air.

  Further, the refrigerant circuit 210 is formed with a first diversion circuit 250 and a second diversion circuit 260 that divert a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11. In the first shunt circuit 250, the refrigerant flows in the order of the compressor 11, the first electromagnetic on-off valve 251, the adsorption heat exchanger 116, the capillary tube 252, and the accumulator 20. In the second shunt circuit 260, the refrigerant flows in the order of the compressor 11, the second electromagnetic on-off valve 261, the check valve 262, and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b.

<Operation of air conditioner>
During the heating operation, the control unit 204 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path indicated by the solid line in FIG. 6 so that the compressor 11 communicates with the indoor heat exchanger 15. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger 15 functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the condensation heat exchanger 13b function as an evaporator. That is, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 is introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 15, and the refrigerant dissipates heat in the indoor heat exchanger 15 and condenses. As a result, the temperature of the refrigerant is lowered to a medium temperature / high pressure state.

  The refrigerant exiting the indoor heat exchanger 15 is decompressed by the first expansion valve 14a, introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, and absorbs heat to evaporate. The refrigerant that has exited the outdoor heat exchanger 13a is further decompressed by the second expansion valve 14b and introduced into the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. Since the control unit 204 controls the second expansion valve 14b to set the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature of the outside air, the temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is set to the outdoor heat exchanger. It becomes lower than the temperature of 13a. As a result, even when the dew point temperature of the outside air is low and no dew condensation occurs in the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, dew condensation always occurs in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b.

  In the first shunt circuit 250, part of the high-temperature refrigerant that has exited the compressor 11 flows to the adsorption heat exchanger 116. Since there is a capillary tube 252 downstream of the adsorption heat exchanger 116, the refrigerant in the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is maintained at a high pressure and functions as a radiator. As a result, the adsorbent is heated and moisture contained in the adsorbent is desorbed into the air, so that the air flow A passing through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 contains moisture desorbed from the adsorbent.

  Since the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is located downstream of the air flow A flowing from the adsorption heat exchanger 116, moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is also condensed by the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. As a result, the dew condensation water generated in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b becomes larger than that in the case where the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is not provided.

  Since the moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger 116 decreases as the heating time increases, it is preferable to adsorb moisture regularly. In the present embodiment, the first electromagnetic on-off valve 251 is controlled as necessary to close the refrigerant flow path so that the high-temperature refrigerant does not flow into the adsorption heat exchanger 116, thereby naturally cooling the adsorbent. As a result, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent.

  In the second shunt circuit 260, since the second electromagnetic on-off valve 261 is always closed, the high-temperature refrigerant from the compressor 11 does not flow into the condensation heat exchanger 13b. However, when the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is frosted, the control unit 204 controls the second electromagnetic opening / closing valve 261 to open the refrigerant flow path and to flow the high temperature refrigerant to the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. The dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is defrosted by the heat radiation of the high-temperature refrigerant.

<Modification of Second Embodiment>
FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus according to a modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those in the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. In FIG. 7, the air conditioning apparatus 301 includes a refrigerant circuit 310 through which a refrigerant flows. In the evaporation mechanism 13 of the refrigerant circuit 310, the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the condensation heat exchanger 13b are connected in parallel, and the second expansion valve 14b is connected in series upstream of the refrigerant flow of the condensation heat exchanger 13b. ing. A part of the refrigerant exiting the first expansion valve 14a is introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, and the remaining refrigerant is decompressed again by the second expansion valve 14b and introduced into the condensation heat exchanger 13b. Since the control unit 204 controls the second expansion valve 14b to set the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature of the outside air, the temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is set to the outdoor heat exchanger. It becomes lower than the temperature of 13a. As a result, even when the dew point temperature of the outside air is low and no dew condensation occurs in the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, dew condensation always occurs in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b.

<Features of Second Embodiment>
(1)
In the refrigerant circuit 210 (or 310) of the air conditioner 201 (or 301), the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor 11, the indoor heat exchanger 15, the first expansion valve 14a, and the evaporation mechanism 13. The evaporation mechanism 13 includes an outdoor heat exchanger 13a and a dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. A second expansion valve 14b that further depressurizes the refrigerant entering the condensation heat exchanger 13b is further provided on the upstream side of the refrigerant flow of the condensation heat exchanger 13b.

  A first shunt circuit 250 and a second shunt circuit 260 are formed in the refrigerant circuit 210 (or 310). In the first shunt circuit 250, the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor 11, the first electromagnetic on-off valve 251, the adsorption heat exchanger 116, and the capillary tube 252. In the second shunt circuit 260, the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor 11, the second electromagnetic on-off valve 261, and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b.

  The controller 204 closes the first electromagnetic on-off valve 251 and cuts off the flow of the refrigerant toward the adsorption heat exchanger 116 as necessary, so that the temperature of the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is lowered and the adsorbent is naturally cooled. Stops adsorption of moisture and adsorbs moisture. As a result, water for the next desorption is replenished. Moreover, the control part 204 opens the 2nd electromagnetic on-off valve 261 as needed, and flows a refrigerant | coolant to the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. When the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor can be flowed to the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b without changing the circulation direction of the refrigerant circuit. Can do.

(2)
The refrigerant circuit 210 (or 310) is further provided with a four-way switching valve 12. The four-way switching valve 12 can flow the refrigerant from the compressor 11 to the indoor heat exchanger 15 or the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the condensation heat exchanger 13b by switching the flow path. When at least one of the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is frosted, the control unit 204 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to switch the refrigerant flow path, thereby switching the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger. A refrigerant is passed through 13b. When the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b are frosted and frozen, the high-temperature refrigerant from the compressor can flow to the outdoor heat exchanger 13a and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. can do.

[Third Embodiment]
<Schematic configuration of air conditioner>
FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted. In FIG. 8, the air conditioner 401 includes two independent refrigerant circuits 410 and 510. The first refrigerant circuit 410 is formed by connecting devices such as the compressor 11, the four-way switching valve 12, the outdoor heat exchanger 13a, the first expansion valve 14a, the indoor heat exchanger 15, and the accumulator 20.

  The second refrigerant circuit 510 is formed by connecting devices such as the compressor 111, the four-way switching valve 112, the adsorption heat exchanger 116, the second expansion valve 14b, the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b, and the accumulator 120. The first refrigerant circuit 410 is used for indoor air conditioning, and the second refrigerant circuit 510 is used for generating condensed water. The control unit 404 includes a CPU and a memory, and controls each device of the air conditioning apparatus 401.

<Operation of air conditioner>
The air conditioner 401 can switch between the cooling operation and the heating operation by changing the refrigerant flow path using the four-way switching valve 12. This embodiment demonstrates the case where the refrigerant circuit is a circuit for heating operation.

  In the first refrigerant circuit 410 during the heating operation, the control unit 404 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to select the flow path indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1 so that the compressor 11 communicates with the indoor heat exchanger 15. The indoor heat exchanger 15 and the outdoor heat exchanger 13a function as a condenser and an evaporator, respectively. That is, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11 is introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 15 and exchanges heat with the indoor air, so that the temperature is lowered and the medium-temperature and high-pressure state is obtained. The refrigerant exiting the indoor heat exchanger 15 is decompressed by the first expansion valve 14a and introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 13a. Here, heat exchange with outdoor air is performed, and the air is sucked into the compressor 11 again.

  In the second refrigerant circuit 510, the control unit 404 controls the four-way switching valve 112 to select the flow path shown by the solid line in FIG. 1, and causes the compressor 111 and the adsorption heat exchanger 116 to communicate with each other. That is, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 111 is introduced into the adsorption heat exchanger 116 and exchanges heat with outdoor air, so that the temperature is lowered and the medium temperature and high pressure state is obtained.

  The refrigerant exiting the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is decompressed by the second expansion valve 14b and introduced into the condensation heat exchanger 13b. The evaporation temperature of the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is set to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature of the outside air in order to dew moisture from the outside air. The dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is disposed downstream of the air flow A that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger 116. In the adsorption heat exchanger 116, since the refrigerant heats the adsorbent to desorb moisture contained in the adsorbent, moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is present in the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger 116. include. Since the moisture is also condensed when passing through the condensation heat exchanger 13b, the condensation water generated in the condensation heat exchanger 13b is larger than that in the case where the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is not provided.

  Since the moisture adsorbed by the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger 116 decreases as the heating time increases, it is preferable to adsorb moisture regularly. In the present embodiment, the control unit 404 periodically controls the four-way switching valve 112 to select the flow path indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 8 so that the adsorption heat exchanger 116 functions as an evaporator to cool the adsorbent. ing. As a result, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent.

  When the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is frosted, the control unit 404 controls the four-way switching valve 112 to select the flow path indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 8 so that the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b functions as a condenser. A high-temperature refrigerant is passed through the vessel 13b. The dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is defrosted by the heat radiation of the high-temperature refrigerant. Also at this time, since the adsorption heat exchanger 116 functions as an evaporator, the adsorbent is cooled, and moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent.

<Features of Third Embodiment>
(1)
The air conditioner 401 includes a first refrigerant circuit 410 that is used for indoor air conditioning, and a second refrigerant circuit 510 that is used to generate condensed water. The second refrigerant circuit 510 includes an adsorption heat exchanger 116 that is a condenser and a condensation heat exchanger 13b that is an evaporator. The air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 contains moisture desorbed from the adsorbent, and the moisture is condensed when it passes through the condensation heat exchanger 13b. For this reason, the dew condensation water which generate | occur | produces in the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is more than the case where the adsorption heat exchanger 116 is not employ | adopted as a condenser. The condensed water is conveyed to the humidifying means 21 and used as humidifying water. The second refrigerant circuit 510 is independent of the first refrigerant circuit 410 used for indoor air conditioning and is filled with humidifying water without deteriorating the heating performance.

(2)
The second refrigerant circuit 510 is further provided with a four-way switching valve 112. The four-way switching valve 112 can flow the refrigerant from the compressor 111 to the adsorption heat exchanger 116 or the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b by switching the flow path. When the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b is frosted, the control unit 404 controls the four-way switching valve 12 to switch the refrigerant flow path so that the refrigerant flows through the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b. Since the high-temperature refrigerant | coolant which came out from the compressor 111 can be poured into the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b, it can defrost and melt | dissolve quickly.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment, the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 passes through the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b and then passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 13a. Alternatively, a dedicated fan may be provided to form an air path so that the air flow A passes from the adsorption heat exchanger 116 through the condensation heat exchanger 13b and blows out. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing structures of an outdoor unit and a water catching unit of the air conditioner according to the fourth embodiment. The same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 9, an adsorption heat exchanger 116, a dew condensation heat exchanger 13 b, a drain pan 31 b, and a fan 118 are arranged in the water capturing unit 7. The drain pan 31b is positioned below the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b, and causes the dew condensation water generated by the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b to flow further downward. The wall surface is provided with a vent 102 and a blower outlet 119 at a position away from the vent 102 by a predetermined distance. The fan 118 employs a sirocco fan having a high static pressure. When the fan 118 rotates, outside air is sucked from the vent 102, and the outside air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 and the condensation heat exchanger 13b. And it blows out from the blower outlet 119. By providing the fan 118, the amount of air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger 116 and the dew condensation heat exchanger 13b can be freely adjusted, and the amount of dew condensation water can be easily controlled.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the dew condensation water is always collected by combining the adsorption heat exchanger and the dew condensation heat exchanger. Therefore, the air provided with the humidifying means that uses the dew condensation water as humidification water. Useful for harmony devices.

The block diagram of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. The perspective view which shows the structure of the outdoor unit and water collection unit of an air conditioning apparatus. The perspective view of a tank. The circuit diagram which shows the circulation path of water. The block diagram of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on the modification of 1st Embodiment of this invention. The block diagram of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The block diagram of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The block diagram of the air conditioning apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. The perspective view which shows the structure of the outdoor unit and water collection unit of the air conditioning apparatus which concern on 4th Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1, 101, 201, 301, 401 Air conditioner 4, 204, 404 Control unit 10, 110, 210, 310 Refrigerant circuit 11, 111 Compressor 12, 112 Four-way switching valve 13 Evaporating mechanism 13a Outdoor heat exchanger (first 1 evaporator)
13b Condensation heat exchanger (second evaporator)
14a First expansion valve (first expansion mechanism)
14b Second expansion valve (second expansion mechanism)
14c 3rd expansion valve (3rd expansion mechanism)
15 Indoor heat exchanger (condenser)
21 Humidifying means 116 Adsorption heat exchanger 251 First electromagnetic on-off valve 261 Second electromagnetic on-off valve 410 First refrigerant circuit 510 Second refrigerant circuit

Claims (8)

A refrigerant circuit (10, 110, 210, 310) of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle in which the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor (11), the condenser (15), the first expansion mechanism (14a), and the evaporation mechanism (13); ,
A control unit (4, 204) for controlling the refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant circuit;
Humidifying means (21) for humidifying the room;
With
An adsorption heat exchanger (116) carrying an adsorbent that desorbs moisture at a high temperature is further provided on the high-pressure side of the refrigerant circuit,
The evaporation mechanism (13) is disposed in the vicinity of the adsorption heat exchanger (116) to dew moisture from the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (116),
The humidifying means (21) humidifies the room using the condensed water generated by the evaporation mechanism (13).
Air conditioner (1, 101, 201, 301). The evaporation mechanism (13) includes a first evaporator (13a) and a second evaporator (13b),
The refrigerant circuit is further provided with a second expansion mechanism (14b) that depressurizes the refrigerant entering the second evaporator (13b).
The air conditioner (1, 101, 201, 301) according to claim 1. The refrigerant circuit (10, 110) is further provided with a third expansion mechanism (14c) that can depressurize the refrigerant entering the adsorption heat exchanger (116).
The air conditioner (1, 101) according to claim 1 or 2. The refrigerant circuit (210, 310) is further provided with a first on-off valve (251) for flowing a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (11) to the adsorption heat exchanger (116).
The air conditioner (201, 301) according to claim 1 or claim 2. The refrigerant circuit (210, 310) is further provided with a second on-off valve (261) that allows a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (11) to flow to the second evaporator (13b). ing,
The air conditioning apparatus (201, 301) according to claim 2. In the refrigerant circuit (10, 110, 210, 310), the refrigerant that has flowed out of the compressor (11) by switching the flow path is supplied to the condenser (15) or the first evaporator (13a) and the first refrigerant. A four-way switching valve (12) that can flow to the two evaporators (13b) is further provided,
When at least one of the first evaporator (13a) and the second evaporator (13b) is frosted, the controller (4, 204) controls the four-way switching valve (12) to flow the refrigerant. The path is switched, and the refrigerant flows through the first evaporator (13a) and the second evaporator (13b).
The air conditioning apparatus (1, 101, 201, 301) according to claim 2. Compressor (111),
An adsorption heat exchanger (116) having an adsorbent that desorbs moisture at a high temperature supported on the surface;
Expansion mechanism (14b),
An evaporator (13b) that condenses moisture from the air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (116);
A refrigerant circuit (510) of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle in which the refrigerant circulates in this order,
A controller (404) for controlling the refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant circuit (510);
Humidifying means (21) for humidifying the room;
With
The evaporator (13b) is disposed in the vicinity of the adsorption heat exchanger (116),
The humidifying means (21) humidifies the room using condensed water generated in the evaporator (13b).
Air conditioner (401). In the refrigerant circuit (510), a four-way switching valve capable of flowing the refrigerant from the compressor (111) to the adsorption heat exchanger (116) or the evaporator (13b) by switching the flow path. (112) is further provided,
When the evaporator (13b) is frosted, the controller (404) controls the four-way switching valve (112) to switch the refrigerant flow path, and causes the refrigerant to flow through the evaporator (13b).
The air conditioning apparatus (1) according to claim 7.

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