JP2009109148A - Humidity conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily detect a failure of a four-way selector valve in a humidity conditioner. <P>SOLUTION: This humidity conditioner (10) includes a refrigerant circuit (50) to which a first and a second adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) and a four-way selector valve (55) are connected, and includes an operation control section (110) for controlling the four-way selector valve (55). The humidity conditioner (10) conditions air, which passes through the first and the second adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52), and supplies it into a room by alternately switching a circulating direction of refrigerant with the four-way selector valve (55) controlled by the operation control section (110). The humidity conditioner (10) also includes a pipe temperature sensor (95) for detecting the temperature of refrigerant flowing from the four-way selector valve (55) to the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), a high-pressure sensor (91) for detecting high pressure of the refrigerant circuit (50), and a failure determination section (120) for determining a failure of the four-way selector valve (55) when the temperature of refrigerant detected by the pipe temperature sensor (95) is not above a condensation temperature computed based on a result of the detection by the high-pressure sensor (91). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention passes through the adsorption heat exchanger while switching the operating state of the two adsorption heat exchangers as an evaporator and a condenser by alternately switching the refrigerant circulation direction by means of a four-way switching valve. The present invention relates to a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of air to be supplied and supplies the air indoors.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a humidity control apparatus that supplies dehumidified or humidified air to a room is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). The humidity control apparatus according to Patent Document 1 is configured to adjust the humidity of air by performing an adsorption operation for adsorbing moisture in the air to the adsorbent and a regeneration operation for desorbing moisture from the adsorbent. .

Such a humidity control apparatus includes a refrigerant circuit in which a compressor, an expander, two adsorption heat exchangers, and a four-way switching valve are connected. One of the adsorption heat exchangers functions as an evaporator for adsorption. While the operation is performed, the other adsorption heat exchanger is caused to function as a condenser to perform the regeneration operation. Then, the humidity control apparatus switches the refrigerant circulation direction by a four-way switching valve, thereby switching between the adsorption operation and the regeneration operation of the two adsorption heat exchangers, thereby performing adsorption heat exchange in which moisture is adsorbed in the operation before switching. While the regenerator performs the regeneration operation, the adsorption operation is performed by the adsorption heat exchanger from which moisture has been desorbed in the operation before switching. Thus, the humidity control apparatus is configured to perform semi-permanent dehumidification and humidification on the air by alternately switching between the adsorption operation and the regeneration operation of the two adsorption heat exchangers.
JP 2006-349304 A

  However, in the configuration in which the four-way switching valve is frequently switched as in the humidity control device described above, the possibility that the four-way switching valve will fail increases.

  If the four-way switching valve fails, the refrigerant circulation direction cannot be switched, and the operations of the two adsorption heat exchangers cannot be switched alternately. When the operation of the humidity control device is continued with the four-way switching valve in a failed state, the adsorption heat exchanger performing the adsorption operation reaches the saturation amount while the adsorption operation performing the regeneration operation. In the heat exchanger, all the adsorbed moisture has been desorbed. As a result, the humidity control device cannot continuously dehumidify and humidify the air.

  Therefore, in the humidity control apparatus, not only the durability required for the four-way switching valve is increased, but also the necessity for detecting the failure of the four-way switching valve is increased as compared with the air conditioner.

  The present invention has been made in view of this point, and an object of the present invention is to easily detect a failure of a four-way switching valve in a humidity control apparatus.

  The first invention includes two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) in which at least one performs an adsorption operation for adsorbing moisture and the other performs a regeneration operation for desorption of moisture, and a four-way switching valve for switching the refrigerant circulation direction (55) is connected to the refrigerant circuit (50) and a control unit (110) for controlling the four-way switching valve (55), and the control unit (110) circulates the refrigerant by the four-way switching valve (55). By switching the direction alternately, the humidity of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is adjusted to the room while switching the adsorption operation and the regeneration operation of the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52). The humidity control device to be supplied is the target. And it flows between the adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the four-way switching valve (55) that are controlled to perform the regeneration operation by the control unit (110) controlling the four-way switching valve (55). Refrigerant temperature detection means (95) for detecting the temperature of the refrigerant, condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91) for detecting a physical quantity related to the condensation temperature of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit (50), and the refrigerant temperature detection When the refrigerant temperature detected by the means (95) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result of the condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91), the four-way switching valve (55) fails. It is further assumed that a determination unit (120) that determines that the

  In the case of the above configuration, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) controlled to perform the regeneration operation from the four-way switching valve (55) and the condensation of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) By monitoring the temperature, the failure of the four-way selector valve (55) can be easily determined.

  That is, when the four-way switching valve (55) is normal, the high-pressure gas refrigerant flows from the four-way switching valve (55) to the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) that performs the regeneration operation. The temperature of the high-pressure gas refrigerant is higher than the condensing temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) because of the discharge superheat. Therefore, as long as the four-way switching valve (55) is normal, the refrigerant whose temperature is detected by the refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is a high-pressure gas refrigerant, and the detected temperature is the condensation temperature related quantity detecting means (91). It becomes higher than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result.

  However, when the four-way switching valve (55) is out of order, the four-way switching valve (55) does not operate as desired, and as a result, the adsorption heat exchanger ( 51, 52) and the four-way switching valve (55) are refrigerants having a temperature lower than that of the high-pressure refrigerant. That is, when the refrigerant temperature detected by the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result of the condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91), the four-way selector valve (55) fails. Can be determined.

  Therefore, the four-way selector valve (55) is failed based on the refrigerant temperature detected by the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) and the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result of the condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91). By determining, a failure of the four-way selector valve (55) can be determined easily and reliably. At this time, as long as the four-way switching valve (55) is normal, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing between the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) to be regenerated and the four-way switching valve (55) is high. By using a condensing temperature having a sufficient temperature difference with respect to the refrigerant, the refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) and the condensing temperature related quantity detecting means (91) can be used even though the four-way switching valve (55) is normal. It is possible to prevent a failure from being erroneously determined due to a detection error.

  According to a second aspect, in the first aspect, the refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is a pipe that connects the four-way switching valve (55) and the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52). The determination means (120) is provided in one pipe (58), and the controller (110) performs a regeneration operation on the adsorption heat exchanger (51) connected to the one pipe (58). When the four-way switching valve (55) is controlled so as to be performed, a failure of the four-way switching valve (55) is determined.

  In the case of the above configuration, the temperature detecting means is provided in one of the pipes (58) connecting the four-way switching valve (55) and the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52). . The controller (110) is configured so that the adsorption heat exchanger (51) connected to the one pipe (58) performs a regeneration operation, that is, the high-pressure refrigerant flows through the one pipe (58). Only when the four-way selector valve (55) is controlled by the determination means (120). By doing so, the number of temperature detecting means, that is, the number of parts can be reduced, and the configuration of the humidity control apparatus can be simplified.

  The refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is provided only in one pipe (58) of the pipes connecting the four-way switching valve (55) and the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52), and the one pipe (58 ) The four-way selector valve (55) is frequently switched in the humidity controller even when the adsorption heat exchanger (51) connected to) is controlled to perform a regeneration operation. Since the operation is performed, the opportunity for determining the failure frequently comes, and the failure of the four-way switching valve (55) can be reliably determined.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the invention, the determination unit (120) is configured so that the refrigerant temperature detected by the refrigerant temperature detection unit (95) is detected by the condensation temperature related amount detection unit (91). Assume that it is determined that the four-way switching valve (55) is out of order when a state that is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result continues for a predetermined time.

  In the case of the above configuration, the failure of the four-way switching valve (55) is determined in consideration of the heat capacity of the pipe (58) through which the high-pressure refrigerant flows. That is, since it is difficult for the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) to directly detect the temperature of the refrigerant, the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) detects the temperature of the pipe (58) through which the refrigerant flows. In such a case, even if the temperature of the refrigerant changes, it is difficult to immediately detect the temperature change of the refrigerant due to the heat capacity of the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) itself or the heat capacity of the piping. Therefore, in the above-described configuration, it is determined that the four-way switching valve (55) has failed when the temperature detected by the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) is below the evaporation temperature for a predetermined time. By doing so, it is possible to determine the failure after waiting for a change in the pipe (58) and the like accompanying the temperature change of the refrigerant, and it is possible to more accurately determine the failure of the four-way switching valve (55). In addition, even if the detection result of the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) or the condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91) suddenly fluctuates due to noise or the like, it is determined that the four-way switching valve (55) has failed. Therefore, it is strong against disturbance, and the failure of the four-way switching valve (55) can be determined more accurately.

  According to the present invention, the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) and the four-way switching valve (55) which are controlled to perform a regeneration operation by controlling the four-way switching valve (55) by the control unit (110). ) And the condensation temperature of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit (50) can be determined easily and accurately for the failure of the four-way switching valve (55).

  According to the second invention, the refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is provided only in one pipe (58) of the pipes connecting the four-way switching valve (55) and the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52). At the same time, when the control unit (110) controls the four-way switching valve (55) to cause the adsorption heat exchanger (51) connected to the one pipe (58) to perform the regeneration operation, the four-way switching valve By determining the failure of (55), the number of parts can be reduced and the configuration of the humidity control apparatus can be simplified. Moreover, even if it is the structure which performs a failure determination only when making the adsorption | suction heat exchanger (51) connected to this one piping (58) perform regeneration operation, the said humidity control apparatus has two adsorption | suction heat exchangers. (51, 52) Since the operation is performed while switching the adsorption operation and the regeneration operation, that is, while frequently switching the state of the four-way switching valve (55), the opportunity to determine the failure state comes frequently, and the four-way switching valve ( 55) can be determined reliably.

  According to the third invention, the state in which the temperature of the refrigerant detected by the refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is not more than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result of the condensation temperature related quantity detecting means (91) is a predetermined time. By determining that the four-way switching valve (55) has failed when the operation is continued, the four-way switching valve (55) can be broken in consideration of the heat capacity of the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) and the piping and disturbance. More accurate determination can be made.

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

  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 humidity control apparatus (10) will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, “front”, and “rear” used in the description here are the humidity control device (10) from the front side unless otherwise stated. It means the direction when viewed.

  The humidity control device (10) includes a casing (11). A refrigerant circuit (50) is accommodated in the casing (11). Connected to the refrigerant circuit (50) are a first adsorption heat exchanger (51), a second adsorption heat exchanger (52), a compressor (53), an electric expansion valve (54), and a four-way switching valve (55). Has been. 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 the casing (11) shown in FIG. 1, the left front side (ie, front) is the front panel (12), and the right back side (ie, back) is the back panel (13). Is the first side panel (14), and the left back side is the second side panel (15).

  The casing (11) is formed with an outside air suction port (24), an inside air suction port (23), an air supply port (22), and an exhaust port (21). The outside air inlet (24) and the inside air inlet (23) are open to the back panel (13). The outside air inlet (24) is disposed in the lower part of the back panel (13). The inside air suction port (23) is arranged in the upper part of the back panel (13). The air supply port (22) is disposed near the end of the first side panel (14) on the front panel (12) side. The exhaust port (21) is disposed near the end of the second side panel (15) on the front panel (12) side.

  The internal space of the casing (11) includes an upstream divider plate (71), a downstream divider plate (72), a central divider plate (73), a first divider plate (74), and a second divider plate ( 75). These partition plates (71 to 75) are all erected on the bottom plate of the casing (11), and divide the internal space of the casing (11) from the bottom plate of the casing (11) to the top plate. .

  The upstream divider plate (71) and the downstream divider plate (72) are parallel to the front panel portion (12) and the rear panel portion (13), and are spaced at a predetermined interval in the longitudinal direction of the casing (11). Has been placed. The upstream divider plate (71) is disposed closer to the rear panel portion (13). The downstream partition plate (72) is disposed closer to the front panel portion (12).

  The first partition plate (74) and the second partition plate (75) are installed in a posture parallel to the first side panel portion (14) and the second side panel portion (15). The first partition plate (74) is spaced a predetermined distance from the first side panel (14) so as to close the space between the upstream partition plate (71) and the downstream partition plate (72) from the right side. Has been placed. The second partition plate (75) is spaced from the second side panel (15) by a predetermined distance so as to close the space between the upstream partition plate (71) and the downstream partition plate (72) from the left side. Has been placed.

  The central partition plate (73) is disposed between the upstream partition plate (71) and the downstream partition plate (72) in a posture orthogonal to the upstream partition plate (71) and the downstream partition plate (72). Yes. The central partition plate (73) is provided from the upstream partition plate (71) to the downstream partition plate (72), and the space between the upstream partition plate (71) and the downstream partition plate (72) is left and right. It is divided into.

  In the casing (11), the space between the upstream partition plate (71) and the back panel (13) is divided into two upper and lower spaces, and the upper space forms the inside air passage (32). The lower space constitutes the outside air passage (34). The room air side passage (32) communicates with the room through a duct connected to the room air inlet (23). An inside air filter (27) and an inside air humidity sensor (96) are installed in the inside air passage (32). The outside air passage (34) communicates with the outdoor space via a duct connected to the outside air inlet (24). An outside air filter (28) and an outside air humidity sensor (97) are installed in the outside air passage (34).

  The space between the upstream divider plate (71) and the downstream divider plate (72) in the casing (11) is divided into left and right by the central divider plate (73), and is located on the right side of the central divider plate (73). The space constitutes the first heat exchanger chamber (37), and the space on the left side of the central partition plate (73) constitutes the second heat exchanger chamber (38). A first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is accommodated in the first heat exchanger chamber (37). The second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is accommodated in the second heat exchanger chamber (38). Moreover, although not shown in figure, the electric expansion valve (54) of a refrigerant circuit (50) is accommodated in the 1st heat exchanger chamber (37).

  Each adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) has an adsorbent supported on the surface of a so-called cross fin type fin-and-tube heat exchanger, and is a rectangular thick plate or flat rectangular parallelepiped as a whole. It is formed in a shape. Each adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is placed in the heat exchanger chamber (37, 38) with its front and back surfaces parallel to the upstream partition plate (71) and downstream partition plate (72). It is erected.

  In the internal space of the casing (11), the space along the front surface of the downstream partition plate (72) is partitioned vertically, and the upper portion of the vertically partitioned space is the air supply side passage ( 31), and the lower part constitutes the exhaust side passage (33).

  The upstream partition plate (71) is provided with four open / close dampers (41 to 44). Each damper (41-44) is formed in the shape of a substantially horizontally long rectangle. Specifically, in a part (upper part) facing the room air passage (32) in the upstream partition (71), the first room air damper (41) is attached to the right side of the central partition (73). The second inside air damper (42) is attached to the left side of the central partition plate (73). Moreover, in the part (lower part) which faces an external air side channel | path (34) among upstream side partition plates (71), the 1st external air side damper (43) is attached to the right side rather than a center partition plate (73), A second outside air damper (44) is attached to the left side of the central partition plate (73).

  The downstream partition plate (72) is provided with four open / close dampers (45 to 48). Each damper (45-48) is formed in the shape of a substantially horizontally long rectangle. Specifically, in the part (upper part) facing the supply side passageway (31) in the downstream partition plate (72), the first supply side damper (45) is located on the right side of the central partition plate (73). The second air supply side damper (46) is attached to the left side of the central partition plate (73). Moreover, in the part (lower part) which faces an exhaust side channel | path (33) among downstream partition plates (72), the 1st exhaust side damper (47) is attached to the right side rather than a center partition plate (73), A second exhaust side damper (48) is attached to the left side of the central partition plate (73).

  In the casing (11), the space between the air supply side passage (31) and the exhaust side passage (33) and the front panel portion (12) is divided into left and right by the partition plate (77). The space on the right side of (77) constitutes the air supply fan chamber (36), and the space on the left side of the partition plate (77) constitutes the exhaust fan chamber (35).

  The air supply fan (26) is accommodated in the air supply fan chamber (36). The exhaust fan chamber (35) accommodates an exhaust fan (25). The supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) are both centrifugal multiblade fans (so-called sirocco fans). The air supply fan (26) blows out the air sucked from the downstream side partition plate (72) side to the air supply port (22). The exhaust fan (25) blows out the air sucked from the downstream partition plate (72) side to the exhaust port (21).

  The supply fan chamber (36) accommodates a compressor (53) and a four-way switching valve (55) of the refrigerant circuit (50). The compressor (53) and the four-way selector valve (55) are disposed between the air supply fan (26) and the partition plate (77) in the air supply fan chamber (36).

  In the casing (11), the space between the first partition (74) and the first side panel (14) forms a first bypass passage (81). The starting end of the first bypass passage (81) communicates only with the outside air passage (34) and is blocked from the inside air passage (32). The terminal end of the first bypass passage (81) is partitioned by the partition plate (78) from the air supply side passage (31), the exhaust side passage (33), and the air supply fan chamber (36). A first bypass damper (83) is provided in a portion of the partition plate (78) facing the supply fan chamber (36).

  In the casing (11), the space between the second partition (75) and the second side panel (15) constitutes a second bypass passage (82). The starting end of the second bypass passage (82) communicates only with the inside air passage (32) and is blocked from the outside air passage (34). The terminal end of the second bypass passage (82) is partitioned by the partition plate (79) from the air supply side passage (31), the exhaust side passage (33), and the exhaust fan chamber (35). A second bypass damper (84) is provided in a portion of the partition plate (79) facing the exhaust fan chamber (35).

  In the right side view and the left side view of FIG. 2, the first bypass passage (81), the second bypass passage (82), the first bypass damper (83), and the second bypass damper (84) are shown. Is omitted.

<Configuration of refrigerant circuit>
As shown in FIG. 3, the refrigerant circuit (50) includes a first adsorption heat exchanger (51), a second adsorption heat exchanger (52), a compressor (53), an electric expansion valve (54), and a four-way switching valve. (55) is a 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 a discharge side connected to the first port (P1) of the four-way switching valve (55) via the discharge side connection pipe (56), and a suction side connected to the suction side connection pipe ( 57) and connected to the second port (P2) of the four-way selector valve (55). In the refrigerant circuit (50), the third port (P3) of the four-way switching valve (55) and one end of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) are connected via the first connection pipe (58), The fourth port (P4) of the switching valve (55) and one end of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) are connected via the second connecting pipe (59). Furthermore, in the refrigerant circuit (50), the other end of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the other end of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) are connected via the third connection pipe (60), An electric expansion valve (54) is interposed in the third connection pipe (60).

  The four-way selector valve (55) is in a first state (FIG. 3A) in which the first port (P1) and the third port (P3) communicate with each other and the second port (P2) and the fourth port (P4) communicate with each other. And the second state (shown in FIG. 3B) in which the first port (P1) and the fourth port (P4) communicate with each other and the second port (P2) and the third port (P3) communicate with each other. (Status).

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the four-way selector valve (55) includes a cylindrical main body (551) whose both ends are closed by plugs (552, 553). A short pipe which is the above-described four ports (P1 to P4) is provided on a side portion of the main body (551). Specifically, a first port (P1) is provided extending in the radial direction of the main body (551) at the longitudinal center of the main body (551). And the 2nd-4th port (P2-P4) is each provided in the diameter direction of the main body (551) on the opposite side to the 1st port (P1) across the longitudinal direction axis of the main body (551). Yes. These second to fourth ports (P2 to P4) are arranged in the longitudinal direction (from left to right in FIG. 4) in the order of the third, second and fourth ports (P3, P2, P4).

  Housed in the main body (551) are a bowl-shaped valve body (558) and pistons (555,556) integrally attached to both sides of the valve body (558) by connecting plates (557). . Inside the main body (551), there is provided a valve seat (554) on which a valve body (558) is seated at a portion corresponding to the opening of the third, second and fourth ports (P3, P2, P4). Yes.

  The interior of the main body (551) and the plug (552,553) is divided into three chambers, a high pressure chamber (R1), a first working chamber (R2), and a second working chamber (R3) by both pistons (555,556). Yes.

  The four-way switching valve (55) includes a pilot valve (559). The pilot valve (559) includes a first conduit (561) communicating with the first working chamber (R2), a second conduit (562) communicating with the second working chamber (R3), and a first port (P1). A third conduit (563) communicating with the second port (P2) and a fourth conduit (564) communicating with the second port (P2) are connected. The pilot valve (559) is in a first state in which the first conduit (561) and the third conduit (563) communicate with each other and the second conduit (562) and the fourth conduit (564) communicate with each other (FIG. 5 ( A state) and a second state (FIG. 5B) in which the first conduit (561) and the fourth conduit (564) communicate with each other and the second conduit (562) and the third conduit (563) communicate with each other. (State).

  Specifically, the pilot valve (559) switches to the first state when energization is stopped (OFF). Then, in the four-way switching valve (55), the first working chamber (R2) is filled with high-pressure gas refrigerant from the first port (P1), and the second working chamber (R3) is low-pressure from the second port (P2). Filled with gas refrigerant. That is, when the pilot valve (559) is switched to the first state, the piston (555,556) is pushed to the right in FIG. 4 due to the pressure difference between the two working chambers (R2, R3) (the state indicated by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 4). ), The valve body (558) is in the first state (the state shown in FIG. 3A) in which the second port (P2) and the fourth port (P4) communicate with each other.

  On the other hand, the pilot valve (559) switches to the second state when energized (ON). Then, in the four-way switching valve (55), the first working chamber (R2) is filled with the low pressure gas refrigerant from the second port (P2), and the second working chamber (R3) is filled with the high pressure from the first port (P1). Filled with gas refrigerant. That is, when the pilot valve (559) is switched to the second state, the piston (555, 556) is pushed to the left in FIG. 4 due to the pressure difference between the two working chambers (R2, R3) (state shown by the solid line in FIG. 4). Then, the valve body (558) enters the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B) in which the third port (P3) and the second port (P2) communicate with each other.

  In the refrigerant circuit (50), a discharge side connection pipe (56) connecting the discharge side of the compressor (53) and the first port (P1) of the four-way switching valve (55) includes a high pressure sensor (91), A discharge pipe temperature sensor (93) is attached. The high pressure sensor (91) measures the pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53). The discharge pipe temperature sensor (93) measures the temperature of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53). The high pressure sensor (91) constitutes a condensation temperature related quantity detection means.

  In the refrigerant circuit (50), a suction side connecting pipe (57) connecting the suction side of the compressor (53) and the second port of the four-way switching valve (55) includes a low pressure sensor (92), A suction pipe temperature sensor (94) is attached. The low pressure sensor (92) measures the pressure of the refrigerant sucked into the compressor (53). The suction pipe temperature sensor (94) measures the temperature of the refrigerant sucked into the compressor (53).

  In the refrigerant circuit (50), a pipe temperature sensor (95) is connected to the first connection pipe (58) connecting the third port (P3) of the four-way switching valve (55) and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). ) Is attached. The pipe temperature sensor (95) is disposed in the vicinity of the four-way switching valve (55) in this pipe and measures the temperature of the refrigerant flowing in the pipe. This pipe temperature sensor (95) constitutes a refrigerant temperature detecting means.

<Control device configuration>
The humidity control apparatus (10) includes a controller (100). The controller (100) includes an operation control unit (110) that controls the operation of the humidity control device (10), and a failure determination unit (120) that performs determination control of malfunction of the four-way switching valve (55). ing.

  The operation control unit (110) includes setting values (selection of dehumidification ventilation operation, humidification ventilation operation and simple ventilation operation described later, set target humidity, etc.) input from the user, detection results of the inside air humidity sensor (96), and outside air Based on the detection result of the humidity sensor (97), the operation control of the compressor (53) in the refrigerant circuit (50), the opening control of the electric expansion valve (54), the switching control of the four-way switching valve (55), Open / close control of dampers (41-48, 83, 84). This operation control part (110) comprises a control part.

  The failure determination unit (120) determines a failure of the four-way switching valve (55) based on the detection result of the high pressure sensor (91) and the detection result of the pipe temperature sensor (95). This failure determination unit (120) constitutes determination means.

  The detailed control contents of the operation control unit (110) and the failure determination unit (120) will be described below.

-Driving action-
In the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the operation control unit (110) of the controller (100) controls the electric expansion valve (54), the four-way switching valve (55), and the dampers (41 to 48, 83, 84). Thus, the dehumidification ventilation operation, the humidification ventilation operation, and the simple ventilation operation are selectively performed. The humidity control device (10) during dehumidification ventilation operation or humidification ventilation operation adjusts the humidity of the taken outdoor air (OA) and supplies it to the room as supply air (SA). To the outside as exhaust air (EA). On the other hand, the humidity control device (10) during the simple ventilation operation supplies the taken outdoor air (OA) directly to the room as supply air (SA), and at the same time discharges the taken indoor air (RA) as it is. To be discharged outside the room.

<Dehumidification ventilation operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the dehumidifying ventilation operation, a first operation and a second operation described later are alternately repeated at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 3 minutes). During the dehumidifying ventilation operation, the first bypass damper (83) and the second bypass damper (84) are always closed.

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the dehumidification / ventilation operation, outdoor air is taken as first air from the outside air inlet (24) into the casing (11), and indoor air is taken from the inside air inlet (23) to the casing (11). It is taken in as second air.

  First, the first operation of the dehumidifying ventilation operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, during the first operation, the first inside air damper (41), the second outside air side damper (44), the second air supply side damper (46), and the first exhaust side damper ( 47) is opened, and the second inside air damper (42), the first outside air damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper (48) are closed. In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the first operation, the four-way switching valve (55) is set to the first state (the state shown in FIG. 3A), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is condensed. The second adsorption heat exchanger (52) becomes an evaporator.

  The first air that has flowed from the outside air suction port (24) into the outside air passage (34) and passed through the outside air filter (28) passes through the second outside air damper (44) and passes through the second heat exchanger chamber (38). ) And then passes through the second adsorption heat 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 air passage (31) through the second supply air damper (46) and passes through the supply air fan chamber (36). Later, the air is supplied into the room through the air supply port (22).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed into the inside air passage (32) from the inside air suction port (23) and passed through the inside air filter (27) passes through the first inside air damper (41) to form the first heat exchanger chamber. (37) and then passes through the first 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 passage (33) through the first exhaust side damper (47) and passes through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (21).

  Next, the second operation of the dehumidifying ventilation operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, during this second operation, the second inside air side damper (42), the first outside air side damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper ( 48) is opened, and the first inside air damper (41), second outside air damper (44), second air supply damper (46), and first exhaust damper (47) are closed. In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the second operation, the four-way switching valve (55) is set to the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is evaporated. The second adsorption heat exchanger (52) becomes a condenser.

  The first air that has flowed into the outside air passage (34) from the outside air inlet (24) and passed through the outside air filter (28) passes through the first outside air damper (43) and passes through the first heat exchanger chamber (37). ) And then passes through the first adsorption heat 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 air passage (31) through the first supply air damper (45) and passes through the supply air fan chamber (36). Later, the air is supplied into the room through the air supply port (22).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed from the inside air suction port (23) into the inside air side passage (32) and passed through the inside air side filter (27) passes through the second inside air side damper (42) and is thus in the second heat exchanger chamber. (38) and then passes through the second 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 in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows into the exhaust side passage (33) through the second exhaust side damper (48) and passes through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (21).

<Humidified ventilation operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the humidification ventilation operation, a first operation and a second operation described later are alternately repeated at a predetermined time interval (for example, every 3 minutes). During the humidification ventilation operation, the first bypass damper (83) and the second bypass damper (84) are always closed.

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the humidification ventilation operation, outdoor air is taken as second air from the outside air inlet (24) into the casing (11), and indoor air is taken from the inside air inlet (23) to the casing (11). It is taken in as 1st air in.

  First, the 1st operation | movement of humidification ventilation operation is demonstrated. As shown in FIG. 6, during the first operation, the second inside air side damper (42), the first outside air side damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper ( 48) is opened, and the first inside air damper (41), second outside air damper (44), second air supply damper (46), and first exhaust damper (47) are closed. In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the first operation, the four-way switching valve (55) is set to the first state (the state shown in FIG. 3A), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is condensed. The second adsorption heat exchanger (52) becomes an evaporator.

  The first air that has flowed from the inside air suction port (23) into the inside air side passage (32) and passed through the inside air filter (27) passes through the second inside air side damper (42) and passes through the second heat exchanger chamber (38 ) And then passes through the second adsorption heat 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 in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows into the exhaust side passage (33) through the second exhaust side damper (48) and passes through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (21).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed into the outside air passage (34) from the outside air inlet (24) and passed through the outside air filter (28) passes through the first outside air damper (43) and enters the first heat exchanger chamber. (37) and then passes through the first 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 through the first air supply damper (45) into the air supply passage (31) and passes through the air supply fan chamber (36). Later, the air is supplied into the room through the air supply port (22).

  Next, the second operation of the humidification ventilation operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, during the second operation, the first inside air damper (41), the second outside air damper (44), the second air supply damper (46), and the first exhaust damper ( 47) is opened, and the second inside air damper (42), the first outside air damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper (48) are closed. In the refrigerant circuit (50) during the second operation, the four-way switching valve (55) is set to the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is evaporated. The second adsorption heat exchanger (52) becomes a condenser.

  The first air that has flowed from the inside air suction port (23) into the inside air passage (32) and passed through the inside air filter (27) passes through the first inside air damper (41) and passes through the first heat exchanger chamber (37 ) And then passes through the first adsorption heat 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 passage (33) through the first exhaust side damper (47) and passes through the exhaust fan chamber (35). It is discharged outside through the exhaust port (21).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed into the outside air passage (34) from the outside air inlet (24) and passed through the outside air filter (28) passes through the second outside air damper (44) to form the second heat exchanger chamber. (38) and then passes through the second 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 through the second supply air damper (46) into the supply air passage (31) and passes through the supply air fan chamber (36). Later, the air is supplied into the room through the air supply port (22).

<Simple ventilation operation>
The operation of the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation, the first bypass damper (83) and the second bypass damper (84) are opened, and the first room air damper (41) and the second room air damper ( 42), a first external air damper (43), a second external air damper (44), a first air supply damper (45), a second air supply damper (46), a first exhaust air damper (47), And the 2nd exhaust side damper (48) will be in a closed state. Further, during the simple ventilation operation, the compressor (53) of the refrigerant circuit (50) is stopped.

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation, outdoor air is taken into the casing (11) from the outside air inlet (24). The outdoor air that has flowed into the outside air passage (34) through the outside air inlet (24) flows from the first bypass passage (81) through the first bypass damper (83) into the supply fan chamber (36). Then, the air is supplied into the room through the air supply port (22).

  Further, in the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation, room air is taken into the casing (11) from the inside air suction port (23). The room air that has flowed into the inside air passage (32) through the inside air inlet (23) flows from the second bypass passage (82) through the second bypass damper (84) into the exhaust fan chamber (35). Then, it is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (21).

<Failure judgment>
Thus, while the operation control unit (110) of the controller (100) selectively performs any one of the dehumidification ventilation operation, the humidification ventilation operation, and the simple ventilation operation, the failure determination unit (120) includes the four-way switching valve (55 ) Failure is judged.

  Specifically, the failure determination unit (120) determines failure of the four-way switching valve (55) according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, the failure determination unit (120) determines whether or not the compressor (53) is in operation in step S1. When the compressor (53) is in operation, the process proceeds to step S2. On the other hand, when the compressor (53) is stopped, step S1 is repeated via step S8. Here, when a timer described later is started, the timer is stopped and reset in step S8.

  In step S2, the failure determination unit (120) determines whether or not the four-way switching valve (55) is in the first state, that is, whether or not energization of the pilot valve (559) is stopped (OFF). To do. When the four-way switching valve (55) is in the first state, the first connection pipe (58) and the discharge-side connection pipe (56) are connected via the four-way switching valve (55). When energization of the pilot valve (559) is stopped, the process proceeds to step S3. When energization of the pilot valve (559) is energized (ON), the process returns to step S1 via step S8. Here, when a timer to be described later is started, the timer is stopped and reset in step S8 when returning to step S1.

  In step S3, the failure determination unit (120) determines whether or not the start control is completed. Here, the activation control is a predetermined frequency for starting the operation of the humidity control device (10) after starting the compressor (53) when starting the operation of the humidity control device (10). It is the control which raises to the target frequency. Specifically, the opening degree of the electric expansion valve (54) is controlled so that the liquid refrigerant is sucked into the compressor (53) (so-called liquid back phenomenon), and the compressor (53) The operating frequency is gradually increased to the target frequency.

  When the start control is completed, the process proceeds to step S4. When the start control is not completed, the process returns to step S1. Here, when a timer to be described later is started, the timer is stopped and reset in step S8 when returning to step S1.

  In step S4, the failure determination unit (120) calculates the condensation temperature Tcg of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) from the detection result of the high pressure sensor (91), and also detects it by the pipe temperature sensor (95). Whether the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe (58) connecting the third port (P3) of the four-way switching valve (55) and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature Tcg. Determine whether. When the refrigerant temperature T4e in the pipe is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature Tcg, the process proceeds to step S5. On the other hand, when the refrigerant temperature T4e in the pipe is higher than the condensation temperature Tcg, the process returns to step S1 via step S8. Here, when a timer to be described later is started, the timer is stopped and reset in step S8 when returning to step S1.

  In step S5, the failure determination unit (120) starts a timer and proceeds to step S6. When the timer has already been started, the time measurement by the timer is continued.

  In step S6, the failure determination unit (120) determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 2 minutes) has elapsed since the timer was started. When the predetermined time has elapsed, it is determined that the four-way selector valve (55) has failed, and the process proceeds to step S7. On the other hand, when the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S1. Note that when returning from step S6 to step S1, the timer is not stopped and reset, and time measurement by the timer is continued.

  In step S7, the failure determination unit (120) sets a failure flag and turns on notification means (not shown) such as an LED to notify the user of the failure of the four-way switching valve (55).

  After the failure flag is set in step S7 by the failure determination unit (120), the failure flag is set, that is, the notification means is turned on unless the user performs a predetermined release operation with the remote controller or the like. Is maintained.

  That is, the failure determination unit (120) is (i) the compressor (53) is in operation, and (ii) the first connection pipe (58) and the discharge side connection pipe (56) are four-way switching valves (55). (Iv) The start-up control has been completed, and (iv) the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connecting pipe (58) is below the condensation temperature Tcg, and these four states continue for a predetermined time. It is determined that the four-way selector valve (55) has failed.

  That is, when the compressor (53) is in operation, high-pressure refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (53), and high-pressure refrigerant flows through the discharge-side connecting pipe (56). At this time, since the start-up control is completed, a sufficiently high and low differential pressure is generated in the refrigerant circuit (50), and the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53) determines the failure. Has risen to a sufficient value. When the four-way switching valve (55) is in the first state, the first connection pipe (58) is connected to the discharge-side connection pipe (56) of the compressor (53) by the four-way switching valve (55). The high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53) should flow through the one connection pipe (58). The temperature of the high-pressure refrigerant is usually sufficiently higher than the refrigerant condensation temperature Tcg in the refrigerant circuit (50). Here, when the four-way switching valve (55), specifically, when the valve body (558) is not operating normally, the operation control unit (110) controls the four-way switching valve (55) to the first state. However, the four-way selector valve (55) remains in the second state, and the low-pressure refrigerant is flowing into the first connection pipe (58) where the high-pressure refrigerant should be flowing, or the four-way selector valve ( The valve body (558) of 55) is in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state, and the high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second connection pipe (59) as well as the first connection pipe (58). Therefore, when the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe (58) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature Tcg, the valve body (558) is not in the first state, and the four-way switching valve (55) is broken. On the other hand, when the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe (58) is higher than the condensation temperature Tcg, it can be determined that the four-way switching valve (55) is operating normally.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the discharge-side connection pipe (56) is provided with the high-pressure sensor (91), and the first connection pipe (55) connecting the four-way switching valve (55) and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) ( 58) is provided with a pipe temperature sensor (95), and when the four-way selector valve (55) is controlled to connect the discharge side connecting pipe (56) and the first connecting pipe (58), the pipe temperature sensor By comparing the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connecting pipe (58) detected by (95) with the condensation temperature Tcg calculated from the detection result of the high-pressure sensor (91), the high-pressure refrigerant is flowing. Therefore, it is possible to confirm whether the refrigerant flowing through the assumed pipe is a high-pressure refrigerant or not, and it is possible to easily determine whether the four-way switching valve (55) has failed. Specifically, the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe (58) detected by the pipe temperature sensor (95) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature Tcg calculated from the detection result of the high pressure sensor (91). The failure of the four-way selector valve (55) can be easily determined.

  Further, as a comparison object of the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe (58) where the high-pressure refrigerant is assumed to flow, the refrigerant of the refrigerant circuit (50) having a sufficient difference from the temperature of the high-pressure refrigerant By using the condensation temperature Tcg, even if there is a detection error in the high pressure sensor (91) or the pipe temperature sensor (95), it is mistakenly considered that the four-way switching valve (55) is malfunctioning. It is possible to prevent the determination. Furthermore, in the configuration in which the refrigerant circulation direction is frequently switched by the four-way switching valve (55) as in the humidity control device (10), the refrigeration cycle is difficult to stabilize. Also from this point, it is effective to use the condensation temperature Tcg having a sufficient difference from the temperature of the high-pressure refrigerant as a comparison target of the temperature T4e of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe (58).

  Further, in the configuration in which the failure of the four-way switching valve (55) is determined based on the temperature of the refrigerant that actually flows through the pipe through which the high-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the four-way switching valve (55) will flow, as described above. As described above, only one of the first and second connection pipes (58, 59) connected to the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52), specifically, only the first connection pipe (58). When the pipe temperature sensor (95) is installed, the four-way selector valve (55) determines that the four-way selector valve (55) has failed when the second connecting pipe (59) is connected to the discharge-side connecting pipe (56). The failure of the four-way selector valve (55) can be determined only when the first connection pipe (58) is connected to the discharge side connection pipe (56). However, in the humidity control apparatus (10) that performs the humidity control operation while alternately switching the refrigerant circulation direction in the refrigerant circuit (50) at predetermined time intervals as in the present embodiment, the four-way switching valve (55) Since the first connection pipe (58) is frequently connected to the discharge-side connection pipe (56), it is possible to frequently determine the failure of the four-way switching valve (55). As a result, the failure of the four-way switching valve (55) can be reliably determined. And since it is only necessary to provide a temperature sensor in one of the first and second connecting pipes (58, 59), the number of parts is reduced and the configuration of the humidity control apparatus (10) is simplified. Can do.

-Modification of the embodiment-
In the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the adsorbent carried on the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is heated or cooled by the refrigerant. The adsorbent may be heated or cooled by supplying cold water or hot water to the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52).

  In the embodiment, the pipe temperature sensor (95) is provided only in the first connection pipe (58) of the first and second connection pipes (58, 59), and the first connection pipe (58) is provided with a high-pressure refrigerant. When the four-way selector valve (55) is controlled so that the flow of the four-way selector valve (55) is determined, the failure of the four-way selector valve (55) is determined, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the pipe temperature sensor (95) is provided in both the first and second connection pipes (58, 59), and the pipe on which the high-pressure refrigerant is assumed to flow by switching control of the four-way switching valve (55) is provided. A configuration may be adopted in which failure of the four-way switching valve (55) is determined based on the detection result of the provided pipe temperature sensor (95).

  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 abbreviate | omits a part of casing and an electrical component box from the humidity control apparatus seen from the front side. It is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view showing a humidity controller with a part thereof omitted. It is a piping system diagram showing the composition of a refrigerant circuit, (A) shows operation in the 1st operation, and (B) shows operation in the 2nd operation. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a four-way switching valve. It is a schematic explanatory drawing of the pilot valve connected to a four-way switching valve, (A) shows an OFF state, (B) shows an ON state. It is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the air flow in the first operation of the dehumidifying ventilation operation. It is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the air flow in the second operation of the dehumidifying ventilation operation. It is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view of a humidity control apparatus showing the air flow in the first operation of the humidification ventilation operation. It is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the air flow in the second operation of the humidification ventilation operation. It is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view of a humidity control apparatus showing the flow of air in simple ventilation operation. It is a flowchart figure of the failure determination by a failure determination part.

Explanation of symbols

10 Humidity control device
50 Refrigerant circuit
51 First adsorption heat exchanger
52 Second adsorption heat exchanger
55 Four-way selector valve
58 First connection pipe (one pipe)
91 High pressure sensor (Condensation temperature related quantity detection means)
95 Piping temperature sensor (refrigerant temperature detection means)
110 Operation control unit (control unit)
120 Failure determination unit (determination means)

Claims (3)

Two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) performing an adsorption operation for adsorbing moisture and at least one performing a regeneration operation for desorbing moisture and a four-way switching valve (55) for switching the refrigerant circulation direction are connected. A refrigerant circuit (50) and a control unit (110) for controlling the four-way switching valve (55), wherein the control unit (110) alternately switches the circulation direction of the refrigerant by the four-way switching valve (55). A humidity control device that adjusts the humidity of the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) and supplies it indoors while switching between the adsorption operation and the regeneration operation of the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52). There,
The refrigerant flowing between the adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the four-way switching valve (55) that are controlled to perform a regeneration operation by controlling the four-way switching valve (55) by the control unit (110). Refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) for detecting the temperature;
A condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91) for detecting a physical quantity related to the condensation temperature of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit (50);
When the refrigerant temperature detected by the refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result of the condensation temperature related quantity detecting means (91), the four-way selector valve (55) The humidity control apparatus further comprising: a determination unit (120) that determines that the battery is malfunctioning. In claim 1,
The refrigerant temperature detecting means (95) is provided in one pipe (58) of pipes connecting the four-way switching valve (55) and the two adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52),
The determination means (120) controls the four-way switching valve (55) so that the controller (110) causes the adsorption heat exchanger (51) connected to the one pipe (58) to perform a regeneration operation. A humidity control apparatus characterized by determining a failure of the four-way switching valve (55) during control. In claim 1 or 2,
The determination means (120) has a state in which the temperature of the refrigerant detected by the refrigerant temperature detection means (95) is equal to or lower than the condensation temperature calculated based on the detection result of the condensation temperature related quantity detection means (91). It is determined that the four-way switching valve (55) is out of order when it continues for a predetermined time.

Images