JP2014066375A - Humidity controller - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To secure comfort in an indoor space (200) even in operation conditions where humidity control over outdoor air through a humidity controller is not necessary.SOLUTION: A humidity controller (10) dehumidifies or humidifies outdoor air to be supplied into a room by using adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) connected to a refrigerant circuit. Further, the humidity controller (10) performs a sensible heat treatment operation in which one of the adsorption heat exchangers (51, 52) operates always as a condenser and the other operates always as an evaporator, and a simple ventilation operation in which the outdoor air is supplied into the room while a compressor of the refrigerant circuit is stopped. In the sensible heat treatment operation, the outdoor air supplied into the room is cooled by the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) as the evaporator or heated by the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) as the condenser. A controller of the humidity controller (10) selects one of the sensible heat treatment operation and simple ventilation operation according to the temperature of the outdoor air.

Description

  The present invention relates to a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of air using an adsorption heat exchanger carrying an adsorbent.

  Conventionally, a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of air using an adsorbent is known. Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a humidity control apparatus including an adsorption heat exchanger having an adsorbent supported on the surface thereof.

  The humidity control apparatus disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 is provided with a refrigerant circuit including two adsorption heat exchangers. In this refrigerant circuit, the first adsorption heat exchanger serves as a condenser and the second adsorption heat exchanger serves as an evaporator, and the second adsorption heat exchanger serves as a condenser and performs the first adsorption. The operation in which the heat exchanger becomes an evaporator is alternately performed. In the adsorption heat exchanger operating as an evaporator, moisture in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. In an adsorption heat exchanger that operates as a condenser, moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent and applied to the air.

  The humidity control apparatus disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 performs indoor ventilation. The humidity control device during the dehumidifying operation dehumidifies the sucked outdoor air with an adsorption heat exchanger that operates as an evaporator and then supplies it to the indoor space, and at the same time from the adsorption heat exchanger that operates the sucked indoor air as a condenser. It is discharged to the outdoor space together with the desorbed moisture. On the other hand, the humidity control device during the humidifying operation humidifies the sucked outdoor air with an adsorption heat exchanger that operates as a condenser and supplies it to the indoor space, and at the same time, absorbs heat from the sucked indoor air as an evaporator. After dehumidifying with a vessel, discharge to the outdoor space.

JP 2004-353887 A JP 2006-078108 A

  By the way, when the absolute humidity of outdoor air and the absolute humidity of indoor air are comparable, it is not necessary to adjust the humidity of the outdoor air which a humidity control apparatus supplies to indoor space. On the other hand, indoor ventilation must always be performed regardless of the absolute humidity of outdoor air and indoor air. For this reason, when the humidity adjustment of the outdoor air supplied to indoor space is unnecessary, the humidity control apparatus disclosed by patent document 1 performs the driving | operation which supplies outdoor air as it is, without adjusting humidity.

  However, even if the absolute humidity of the outdoor air and the absolute humidity of the room air are approximately the same, the temperature of the outdoor air may differ from the temperature of the room air. For this reason, if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space as it is, the comfort of the indoor space may be impaired. In other words, if outdoor air having a temperature higher than the room temperature is supplied as it is to the indoor space being cooled, or outdoor air having a temperature lower than the room temperature is supplied as it is to the indoor space being heated, it may cause discomfort to the occupants. There is.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and an object thereof is to ensure the comfort of the indoor space even under operating conditions in which the humidity adjustment of the outdoor air is unnecessary.

  The first invention is a refrigerant circuit that performs a refrigeration cycle by providing a compressor (53) and a first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and a second adsorption heat exchanger (52) each carrying an adsorbent. (50), the second air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as a radiator and the first air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as an evaporator And the first air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as a radiator and the second air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as an evaporator. The outdoor air sucked as one of the first air and the second air is supplied to the indoor space (200), and the indoor air sucked as the other of the first air and the second air is performed. The target is a humidity control device that discharges air to the outdoor space (201). Then, only one of the humidity control operation in which the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated for a first predetermined time and the first operation and the second operation is performed, or the first operation and the second operation are performed. A sensible heat treatment operation in which the operation is alternately repeated every second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time, and outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) with the compressor (53) stopped, and the indoor air When the humidity control condition is established, it is possible to selectively execute the simple ventilation operation that discharges the air to the outdoor space (201) and the humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) needs to be adjusted. When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) is provided for selecting either the sensible heat treatment operation or the simple ventilation operation based on the outdoor temperature. Performing the operation selected by the controller (95) A.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the first invention selectively performs a humidity control operation, a sensible heat treatment operation, and a simple ventilation operation. The humidity control apparatus (10) performs an operation of alternately repeating the first operation and the second operation for each first predetermined time as a humidity control operation. The humidity control apparatus (10) performs a sensible heat treatment on either one of the operation for performing only one of the first operation and the second operation and the operation for alternately repeating the first operation and the second operation for each second predetermined time. Do as driving. The humidity control device (10) performs an operation of supplying outdoor air to the indoor space (200) and discharging the indoor air to the outdoor space (201) as a simple ventilation operation with the compressor (53) stopped. .

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the humidity control operation, the temperature and absolute humidity of the first air decrease when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator, and the temperature of the second air The absolute humidity rises when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a radiator. Then, the humidity control device (10) supplies either the first air or the second air that has passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) to the indoor space (200) and discharges the other to the outdoor space (201). To do.

  The case where the humidity control apparatus (10) performs the operation of performing only one of the first operation and the second operation as the sensible heat treatment operation will be described. When the humidity controller (10) performs only the first operation, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) always functions as a radiator, and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) always functions as an evaporator. When the humidity controller (10) performs only the second operation, the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) always functions as a radiator and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) always functions as an evaporator. To do. Immediately after the start of the sensible heat treatment operation, the temperature and absolute humidity of the first air and the second air change as they pass through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). However, when the duration of the sensible heat treatment operation reaches a certain level, the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) that functions as an evaporator is substantially saturated, and the adsorption heat exchanger (51 that functions as a radiator) , 52) the water content of the adsorbent is extremely low. For this reason, after the duration of the sensible heat treatment operation reaches a certain level, only the temperatures of the first air and the second air change when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), and the first air and the second air The absolute humidity of the two airs hardly changes when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52).

  A case will be described in which the humidity control apparatus (10) performs an operation in which the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated every second predetermined time as the sensible heat treatment operation. The second predetermined time is longer than the first predetermined time (that is, the duration of the first operation and the second operation during the humidity control operation). As the duration time of the first operation and the second operation becomes longer, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator increases, and the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) Moisture inside is less likely to be adsorbed. Further, as the duration time of the first operation and the second operation becomes longer, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a radiator decreases, and this adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) Moisture does not easily desorb from the water. For this reason, in the sensible heat treatment operation in which the duration time of the first operation and the second operation is longer than the humidity control operation, the temperature of the first air and the second air when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) The amount of change increases, and the amount of change in absolute humidity of the first air and the second air when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) decreases.

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation, the compressor (53) stops and the refrigerant does not circulate through the refrigerant circuit (50). For this reason, the outdoor air sucked into the humidity control device (10) is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is without adjusting its temperature and absolute humidity. Further, the indoor air sucked into the humidity control device (10) is discharged to the outdoor space (201) as it is without adjusting its temperature and absolute humidity.

  The humidity controller (10) of the first invention is provided with a controller (95). The humidity controller (10) executes the operation selected by the controller (95). When the humidity control condition is satisfied, the controller (95) selects the humidity control operation. On the other hand, when the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) selects either the sensible heat treatment operation or the simple ventilation operation based on the outdoor temperature. Whether or not the comfort of the indoor space (200) is impaired when the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is can be determined based on the outdoor air temperature. Therefore, the controller (95) determines whether to select the sensible heat treatment operation or the simple ventilation operation based on the outdoor temperature.

  In the second invention, in the first invention, when the operation to be performed is changed from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchange are performed. The air passing through one of the chambers (52) is switched from outdoor air to room air, and the air passing through the other of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is changed from room air. The simple ventilation operation is executed by switching to outdoor air.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the second invention switches the air flow path when the operation to be performed is changed from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation. For example, when outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and indoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) during the sensible heat treatment operation, the humidity controller (10) A simple ventilation operation is performed by changing the air flow path so that the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) and the indoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). When the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) and the indoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) during the sensible heat treatment operation, the humidity controller (10) The simple ventilation operation is performed by changing the air flow path so that the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the indoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52).

  For example, at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation, room air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) that functions as a radiator, and outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) that functions as an evaporator. Suppose that In this case, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is relatively low, and the moisture content of the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is relatively high. When the simple ventilation operation is performed without changing the air flow path, the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) having a relatively high moisture content of the adsorbent, and the indoor space (200) There is a risk that the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the air will rise when passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52).

  On the other hand, the humidity control apparatus (10) of the second invention changes the air flow path when the operation to be performed is switched from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation. In the above example, the humidity control apparatus (10) passes the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) through which the room air has passed at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation, and the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). A simple ventilation operation is performed by changing the air flow path so that the indoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) through which the outdoor air has passed. That is, the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) after passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) in which the moisture content of the adsorbent is relatively low. Therefore, an increase in the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) after the start of the simple ventilation operation can be suppressed.

  Further, for example, at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation, outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as a radiator, and indoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as an evaporator. Suppose you were passing. In this case, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is relatively low, and the moisture content of the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is relatively high. When the simple ventilation operation is started without changing the air flow path, the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) in which the moisture content of the adsorbent is relatively low, and the indoor space (200) There is a risk that the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the air will decrease when it passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51).

  On the other hand, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the second invention, the air flow path is changed when the operation to be performed is switched from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation. In the above example, the humidity controller (10) passes the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) through which the room air has passed at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation, and the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). The simple ventilation operation is performed by changing the air flow path so that the indoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) through which the outdoor air has passed. That is, the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) after passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) in which the moisture content of the adsorbent is relatively high. Accordingly, a decrease in the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) after the start of the simple ventilation operation can be suppressed.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect, the controller (95) stops the air conditioner (150) that blows air into the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control apparatus. Sometimes the sensible heat treatment operation is prohibited.

  In the third aspect of the invention, the controller (95) prohibits the sensible heat treatment operation when the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control device (10) is stopped. When the air conditioner (150) is stopped, it can be estimated that the occupant determines that the indoor space (200) does not need to be cooled or heated. In such a case, it is useless for the humidity control apparatus (10) to perform the sensible heat treatment operation for adjusting the temperature of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200). Therefore, in such a case, the controller (95) prohibits the sensible heat treatment operation.

  In a fourth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to third aspects of the invention, the humidity control operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the first air and sucking indoor air as the second air is a dehumidifying operation, When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state where the outdoor air is sucked as the first air and the indoor air is sucked as the second air is the cooling operation, the controller (95) When the dehumidifying operation is selected and the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the cooling operation is selected when the determination condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor temperature is satisfied, and the determination condition is not satisfied. The simple ventilation operation is selected.

  In a fifth aspect of the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects, the humidity control operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as first air and indoor air is sucked in as second air is a dehumidifying operation, When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state where the outdoor air is sucked as the first air and the indoor air is sucked as the second air is the cooling operation, the controller (95) When the dehumidifying operation is selected and the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control device is performing the cooling operation and the outdoor The cooling operation is selected when the determination condition that the temperature is equal to or higher than the room temperature and the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the cooling set temperature of the air conditioner (150), and when the determination condition is not satisfied, single It is for selecting the ventilation mode.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of each of the fourth and fifth inventions performs a dehumidification operation as a humidity control operation and performs a cooling operation as a sensible heat treatment operation. During the dehumidifying operation, the humidity control device (10) supplies the outdoor air dehumidified when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator to the indoor space (200) and functions as a radiator The indoor air humidified when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is discharged to the outdoor space (201). The humidity control device (10) during the cooling operation supplies the outdoor air cooled when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator to the indoor space (200) and functions as a radiator The indoor air heated when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is discharged to the outdoor space (201).

  In the fourth invention, when the humidity control condition is satisfied, the controller (95) selects the dehumidifying operation, and the humidity control device (10) performs the dehumidifying operation. When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) determines whether the determination condition is satisfied. The determination condition is a condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor temperature. If the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is when the outdoor air temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor air temperature, there is a risk of discomfort to the occupants. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the cooling operation when the determination condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the outdoor air temperature is lower than the indoor air temperature, even if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is, there is no risk of discomfort to the occupants. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the simple ventilation operation when the determination condition is not satisfied.

  In the fifth invention, when the humidity control condition is satisfied, the controller (95) selects the dehumidifying operation, and the humidity control device (10) performs the dehumidifying operation. When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) determines whether the determination condition is satisfied. The judgment condition is that the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control device (10) is performing the cooling operation, the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor temperature, and the outdoor temperature is The condition is that the temperature is higher than the cooling set temperature of the air conditioner (150). When the air conditioner (150) is performing a cooling operation, it can be determined that the person in the room wants to cool the room. Also, if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is when the outdoor air temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor air temperature, or when the outdoor air temperature is equal to or higher than the cooling set temperature of the air conditioner (150), the occupants are inconvenient. May give a pleasant feeling. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the cooling operation when the determination condition is satisfied. On the other hand, if this judgment condition is not satisfied, the occupant does not want to cool the room, or even if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is, the occupant may feel uncomfortable. It can be judged that it is not. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the simple ventilation operation when the determination condition is not satisfied.

  In a sixth aspect of the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects, the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as first air and indoor air is sucked in as second air is a cooling operation. In this case, when the state in which the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the outdoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time during the cooling operation, the controller (95) The operation is forcibly switched from the cooling operation to the simple ventilation operation.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the sixth invention performs the cooling operation as the sensible heat treatment operation. The humidity control device (10) during the cooling operation supplies the outdoor air cooled when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator to the indoor space (200) and functions as a radiator The indoor air heated when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is discharged to the outdoor space (201).

  Here, during the cooling operation, outdoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator. During this cooling operation, if the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) (that is, the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator) falls below the dew point temperature of the outdoor air, it evaporates. When the outdoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a vessel, moisture in the outdoor air may be condensed. That is, drain water may be generated in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator. Therefore, the controller (95) of the sixth aspect of the invention controls the humidity controller (95) when a state where the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the outdoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time during the cooling operation. The operation in 10) is forcibly switched from the cooling operation to the simple ventilation operation.

  In a seventh aspect of the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects of the invention, the humidity control operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the second air and sucking indoor air as the first air is a humidifying operation, When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state where the outdoor air is sucked as the second air and the indoor air is sucked as the first air is the heating operation, the controller (95) When the humidifying operation is selected and the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the heating operation is selected when the determination condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor temperature is satisfied, and the determination condition is not satisfied. The simple ventilation operation is selected.

  In an eighth aspect of the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects of the invention, the humidity control operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as second air and indoor air is sucked in as first air is a humidifying operation, When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as the second air and indoor air is sucked in as the first air is the heating operation, the controller (95) When the humidification operation is selected and the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the air conditioner (150) that blows out air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control device is performing the heating operation and the outdoor The heating operation is selected when the determination condition that the temperature is equal to or lower than the room temperature and the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the heating set temperature of the air conditioner (150) is selected. single It is for selecting the ventilation mode.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of each of the seventh and eighth inventions performs a humidification operation as a humidity control operation and performs a heating operation as a sensible heat treatment operation. The humidity control device (10) during the humidification operation supplies the outdoor air humidified when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a radiator to the indoor space (200) and functions as an evaporator The indoor air dehumidified when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is discharged to the outdoor space (201). The humidity control device (10) during heating operation supplies outdoor air heated when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a radiator to the indoor space (200) and functions as an evaporator The indoor air cooled when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is discharged to the outdoor space (201).

  In the seventh invention, when the humidity control condition is satisfied, the controller (95) selects the humidification operation, and the humidity control device (10) performs the humidification operation. When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) determines whether the determination condition is satisfied. The determination condition is a condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor temperature. If outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is when the outdoor air temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor air temperature, there is a risk of discomfort to the occupants. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the heating operation when the determination condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the outdoor air temperature exceeds the indoor air temperature, even if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is, there is no risk of discomfort to the occupants. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the simple ventilation operation when the determination condition is not satisfied.

  In the eighth invention, when the humidity control condition is satisfied, the controller (95) selects the humidifying operation, and the humidity control device (10) performs the humidifying operation. When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) determines whether the determination condition is satisfied. The judgment condition is that the air conditioner (150) that blows out air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control device (10) performs heating operation, the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor temperature, and the outdoor temperature is The condition is that the temperature is equal to or lower than the heating set temperature of the air conditioner (150). When the air conditioner (150) is performing the heating operation, it can be determined that the occupant wants to heat the room. In addition, if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is when the outdoor air temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor air temperature, or when the outdoor air temperature is equal to or lower than the heating set temperature of the air conditioner (150), the occupants are inconvenient. May give a pleasant feeling. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the heating operation when the determination condition is satisfied. On the other hand, if this determination condition is not satisfied, the occupant does not want to heat the room, or even if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is, the occupant may feel uncomfortable. It can be judged that it is not. Therefore, the controller (95) selects the simple ventilation operation when the determination condition is not satisfied.

  In a ninth aspect of the invention, in the first to third aspects of the invention, the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as second air and indoor air is sucked in as first air is a heating operation. In this case, when the controller (95) continues a state where the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature during the heating operation for a predetermined reference time, the controller (95) The operation is forcibly switched from the heating operation to the simple ventilation operation.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the ninth invention performs the heating operation as the sensible heat treatment operation. The humidity control device (10) during heating operation supplies outdoor air heated when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a radiator to the indoor space (200) and functions as an evaporator The indoor air cooled when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is discharged to the outdoor space (201).

  Here, during the heating operation, the room air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator. During this heating operation, if the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) (that is, the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator) falls below the dew point temperature of the room air, When indoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a vessel, moisture in the indoor air may condense. That is, drain water may be generated in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator. Therefore, the controller (95) of the ninth aspect of the present invention provides a humidity control device (95) when a state in which the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature during the heating operation continues for a predetermined reference time. The operation in 10) is forcibly switched from heating operation to simple ventilation operation.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present invention is provided with a controller (95). When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the controller (95) selects one of the sensible heat treatment operation and the simple ventilation operation based on the outdoor temperature. For this reason, if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is and the comfort of the indoor space (200) is impaired, if the controller (95) selects the sensible heat treatment operation, the adsorption heat exchanger (51,52 ), The outdoor air whose temperature is adjusted is supplied to the indoor space (200). In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the sensible heat treatment operation, it is mainly the temperature of the outdoor air that changes in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), and the absolute humidity of the outdoor air does not change so much.

  As described above, in the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a situation where the humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) is not necessary, the outdoor air whose temperature is mainly adjusted is supplied to the indoor space (200). . Therefore, according to the present invention, it is unnecessary to adjust the humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200), but if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is, the comfort of the indoor space (200) is impaired. In addition, by causing the humidity control apparatus (10) to perform a sensible heat treatment operation, outdoor air whose temperature is mainly adjusted can be supplied to the indoor space (200), and the comfort of the indoor space (200) can be ensured.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the second aspect of the invention switches the outdoor air and indoor air flow paths when the operation to be performed is changed from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation. Specifically, the adsorption heat exchange in which outdoor air passed through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) through which room air passed at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation and outdoor air passed through at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation. The flow paths of the outdoor air and the room air are switched so that the room air passes through the chambers (51, 52). Therefore, it is possible to suppress changes in the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) after the start of the simple ventilation operation, and to ensure the comfort of the indoor space (200) after the start of the simple ventilation operation. Can do.

  In the third aspect, the controller (95) prohibits the sensible heat treatment operation when the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control device (10) is stopped. . For this reason, it is possible to avoid a situation where the humidity control apparatus (10) performs the sensible heat treatment operation in a situation where the occupant does not want to cool or heat the room, and the running cost of the humidity control apparatus (10) can be suppressed.

  In each of the fourth and fifth inventions, the controller (95) selects one of the cooling operation and the simple ventilation operation in accordance with the success or failure of a predetermined determination condition. For this reason, it is possible to select an appropriate one of the cooling operation and the simple ventilation operation, and it is possible to ensure the comfort of the indoor space (200).

  When the state in which the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is below the outdoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time during the cooling operation, the controller (95) of the sixth aspect of the present invention ) Is forcibly switched from cooling operation to simple ventilation operation. For this reason, the generation of drain water can be prevented in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator during the cooling operation. As a result, it is possible to prevent failures caused by the generation of drain water and improve the reliability of the humidity control apparatus (10).

  In each of the seventh and eighth inventions, the controller (95) selects one of the heating operation and the simple ventilation operation in accordance with the success or failure of a predetermined determination condition. For this reason, it is possible to select an appropriate one of the heating operation and the simple ventilation operation, and it is possible to ensure the comfort of the indoor space (200).

  The controller (95) according to the ninth aspect of the present invention provides a humidity control device (10) when a state in which the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time during the heating operation. ) Is forcibly switched from heating operation to simple ventilation operation. For this reason, generation | occurrence | production of drain water can be prevented in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) which functions as an evaporator during heating operation. As a result, it is possible to prevent failures caused by the generation of drain water and improve the reliability of the humidity control apparatus (10).

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a building showing an installation state of the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view, a right side view, and a left side view showing a schematic structure of the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a piping system diagram showing the configuration of the refrigerant circuit, where (A) shows the flow of the refrigerant during the first operation, and (B) shows the flow of the refrigerant during the second operation. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller of the humidity control apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view, right side view, and left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the air flow during the first operation of the dehumidifying operation. FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view, a right side view, and a left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the air flow during the second operation of the dehumidifying operation. FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view, right side view, and left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the air flow during the first operation of the humidification operation. FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view, right side view, and left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing the flow of air during the second operation of the humidification operation. FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view, right side view, and left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing a state in which the air flow path is set to the first path during the simple ventilation operation. FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view, right side view, and left side view of the humidity control apparatus showing a state in which the air flow path is set to the second path during the simple ventilation operation. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the operation mode determination unit of the controller.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments and modifications described below are essentially preferable examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its application, or its use.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment is for adjusting the humidity of the indoor space (200) and ventilating the indoor space (200). The humidity of the sucked outdoor air (OA) is adjusted to adjust the humidity of the indoor space (200). At the same time, the sucked indoor air (RA) is discharged to the outdoor space (201).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the humidity control apparatus (10) of this embodiment is installed in a building together with an air conditioner (150). The air conditioner (150) includes an outdoor unit (152) and an indoor unit (151), and selectively performs a cooling operation and a heating operation. The humidity control apparatus (10) is connected to the indoor space (200) through which the indoor unit (151) of the air conditioner (150) blows air through ducts (102, 103). Specifically, the humidity control device (10) is connected to the indoor space (200) via the air supply duct (102) and the inside air suction duct (103), and the exhaust duct (101) and the outside air suction duct (104) are connected. To the outdoor space (201).

<Overall configuration of humidity control device>
The humidity control apparatus (10) will be described with reference to FIG. 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). The refrigerant circuit (50) includes a first adsorption heat exchanger (51), a second adsorption heat exchanger (52), a compressor (53), a four-way switching valve (54), and an electric expansion valve (55). It is connected. Details of the refrigerant circuit (50) will be described later.

  The casing (11) is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is slightly flat and relatively low in height. 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) has an outside air inlet duct (104), the inside air inlet (23) has an inside air inlet duct (103), the air inlet (22) has an air inlet duct (102), and an air outlet. An exhaust duct (101) is connected to (21).

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

  In the internal space of the casing (11), an upstream partition plate (71), a downstream partition plate (72), and a central partition plate (73) are provided. These partition plates (71 to 73) are all installed upright on the bottom plate of the casing (11), and the internal space of the casing (11) is partitioned from the bottom plate of the casing (11) to the top plate. doing.

  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 arrangement of the central partition plate (73) will be described later.

  In the casing (11), the space between the upstream divider 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 indoor space (200) via a duct connected to the room air suction port (23). The outside air passage (34) communicates with the outdoor space (201) via a duct connected to the outside air inlet (24).

  An inside air side filter (27), an inside air temperature sensor (91), and an inside air humidity sensor (92) are installed in the inside air passage (32). The room air temperature sensor (91) measures the temperature of the room air flowing through the room air side passage (32). The room air humidity sensor (92) measures the relative humidity of the room air flowing through the room air side passage (32). On the other hand, an outside air filter (28), an outside air temperature sensor (93), and an outside air humidity sensor (94) are installed in the outside air passage (34). The outside air temperature sensor (93) measures the temperature of the outdoor air flowing through the outside air passage (34). The outside air humidity sensor (94) measures the relative humidity of the outdoor air flowing through the outside air passage (34). 5-8, illustration of the inside air temperature sensor (91), the inside air humidity sensor (92), the outside air temperature sensor (93), and the outside air humidity sensor (94) is omitted.

  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 (55) 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. As this adsorbent, materials capable of adsorbing moisture in the air, such as zeolite, silica gel, activated carbon, and organic polymer materials having a hydrophilic functional group, are used. The “adsorbent” in the present specification includes a material that performs both adsorption and absorption of water vapor (so-called sorbent).

  Each adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) is formed in the shape of a rectangular thick plate or a flat rectangular parallelepiped as a whole. Each adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) has a front face and a rear face parallel to the upstream partition plate (71) and the downstream partition plate (72), and the heat exchanger chamber (37, 38). It is installed in a standing state.

  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 four dampers (41 to 44) provided on the upstream partition plate (71) constitute a switching mechanism (40) for switching the air flow path.

  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). The four dampers (45 to 48) provided in the downstream partition plate (72) constitute a switching mechanism (40) that switches the air flow path.

  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 the compressor (53) and the four-way switching valve (54) of the refrigerant circuit (50). The compressor (53) and the four-way selector valve (54) are disposed between the air supply fan (26) and the partition plate (77) in the air supply fan chamber (36).

<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), a four-way switching valve (54), and an electric expansion. It is a closed circuit provided with a valve (55). The refrigerant circuit (50) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle by circulating the filled refrigerant. Although not shown, the refrigerant circuit (50) is provided with a plurality of temperature sensors and pressure sensors.

  In the refrigerant circuit (50), the compressor (53) has its discharge pipe connected to the first port of the four-way switching valve (54) and its suction pipe connected to the second port of the four-way switching valve (54). ing. In the refrigerant circuit (50), the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the electric expansion valve (55), the first port, in order from the third port to the fourth port of the four-way switching valve (54). A two-adsorption heat exchanger (52) is arranged.

  The four-way switching valve (54) includes a first state (state shown in FIG. 3A) in which the first port and the third port communicate with each other, and the second port and the fourth port communicate with each other. The second port and the fourth port can communicate with each other, and the second port and the third port can communicate with each other in the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B).

  The compressor (53) is a hermetic compressor in which a compression mechanism and an electric motor that drives the compression mechanism are housed in one casing. Alternating current is supplied to the electric motor of the compressor (53) via an inverter. When the output frequency of the inverter (that is, the operating frequency of the compressor (53)) is changed, the rotational speed of the electric motor and the compression mechanism driven thereby changes, and the operating capacity of the compressor (53) changes. Increasing the rotational speed of the compression mechanism increases the operating capacity of the compressor (53), and decreasing the rotational speed of the compression mechanism decreases the operating capacity of the compressor (53).

<Configuration of controller>
The humidity control device (10) is provided with a controller (95) which is a controller. The controller (95) receives the measured values of the inside air humidity sensor (92), the inside air temperature sensor (91), the outside air humidity sensor (94), and the outside air temperature sensor (93). In addition, the controller (95) receives measurement values of a temperature sensor and a pressure sensor provided in the refrigerant circuit (50). The controller (95) also has a signal indicating the operating state of the air conditioner (150) (for example, a signal indicating whether or not the air conditioner (150) is in operation, and the operation of the air conditioner (150)). A signal indicating whether the operation is cooling or heating is input. The controller (95) controls the operation of the humidity controller (10) based on these input measurement values and signals. That is, the controller (95) controls the operations of the dampers (41 to 48), the fans (25, 26), the compressor (53), the electric expansion valve (55), and the four-way switching valve (54).

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 4, the controller (95) is provided with the compressor control part (96) and the operation mode determination part (97). A compressor control part (96) sets the target value of the operating frequency of a compressor (53) based on the measured value etc. of the sensor (91-94) mentioned above. The operation mode determination unit (97) performs an operation to be performed by the humidity controller (10) based on the measurement values of the sensors (91 to 94) described above, a signal indicating the operation state of the air conditioner (150), and the like. To decide.

-Driving action-
The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment selectively performs a dehumidifying operation, a humidifying operation, a cooling operation, a heating operation, and a simple ventilation operation. The dehumidifying operation and the humidifying operation are humidity control operations for the purpose of adjusting the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200). That is, the dehumidifying operation and the humidifying operation are operations mainly for processing the latent heat load (dehumidifying load or humidifying load) of the indoor space (200). The cooling operation and the heating operation are sensible heat treatment operations for the purpose of adjusting the temperature of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200). That is, the cooling operation and the heating operation are operations mainly for processing the sensible heat load (cooling load or heating load) of the indoor space (200). The simple ventilation operation is an operation for performing only ventilation of the indoor space (200).

  In each of the dehumidifying operation, the humidifying operation, the cooling operation, the heating operation, and the simple ventilation operation, the air supply fan (26) and the exhaust fan (25) operate. The humidity control device (10) supplies the sucked outdoor air (OA) as supply air (SA) to the indoor space (200), and sucks the indoor air (RA) as exhaust air (EA). 201).

<Dehumidifying operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the dehumidifying operation, outdoor air is sucked into the casing (11) from the outside air inlet (24) as first air, and indoor air is drawn from the inside air inlet (23) into the casing (11). Into the second air. In the refrigerant circuit (50), the compressor (53) operates to adjust the opening of the electric expansion valve (55). Then, the humidity control apparatus (10) during the dehumidifying operation alternately repeats a first operation and a second operation described later for 3 minutes. That is, in the dehumidifying operation, the first predetermined time that is the duration of the first operation and the second operation is set to 3 minutes.

  First, the first operation of the dehumidifying operation will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the first operation of the dehumidifying operation, the switching mechanism (40) sets the air circulation path to the second path. Specifically, 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) are opened, and the second inside air The side damper (42), the first outside air damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper (48) are closed. During the first operation, the four-way switching valve (54) is set to the first state (the state shown in FIG. 3A). In the refrigerant circuit (50), a refrigeration cycle is performed, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functions as a condenser (that is, a radiator), and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functions as an evaporator. To do.

  The first air flowing into the outside air passage (34) flows into the second heat exchanger chamber (38) through the second outside air damper (44), and then passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). pass. 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. Further, in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the temperature of the first air is somewhat lowered. The first air dehumidified in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) flows through the second air supply damper (46) into the air supply passage (31) and passes through the air supply fan chamber (36). Later, the air is supplied to the indoor space (200) through the air supply port (22).

  On the other hand, the 2nd air which flowed into the inside air side passage (32) flows into the 1st heat exchanger room (37) through the 1st inside air side damper (41), and after that, the 1st 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 to the outdoor space (201) through the exhaust port (21).

  Next, the second operation of the dehumidifying operation will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the second operation of the dehumidifying operation, the switching mechanism (40) sets the air circulation path to the first path. Specifically, the second inside air damper (42), the first outside air side damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper (48) are opened, and the first inside air is discharged. The side damper (41), the second outside air side damper (44), the second air supply side damper (46), and the first exhaust side damper (47) are closed. Further, during the second operation, the four-way switching valve (54) is set to the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B). In the refrigerant circuit (50), a refrigeration cycle is performed, the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functions as a condenser (ie, a radiator), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functions as an evaporator. To do.

  The first air that has flowed into the outside air passage (34) flows into the first heat exchanger chamber (37) through the first outside air damper (43), and then passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). pass. 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. Moreover, in the 1st adsorption heat exchanger (51), the temperature of 1st air falls somewhat. The first air dehumidified in 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 to the indoor space (200) through the air supply port (22).

  On the other hand, the 2nd air which flowed into the inside air side passage (32) flows into the 2nd heat exchanger room (38) through the 2nd inside air side damper (42), and after that, the 2nd 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 to the outdoor space (201) through the exhaust port (21).

<Humidification operation>
In the humidity control device (10) during the humidifying operation, outdoor air is sucked into the casing (11) from the outside air inlet (24) as second air, and indoor air is drawn from the inside air inlet (23) into the casing (11). Into the first air. In the refrigerant circuit (50), the compressor (53) operates to adjust the opening of the electric expansion valve (55). The humidity control apparatus (10) during the humidifying operation repeatedly performs a first operation and a second operation, which will be described later, alternately every 3 minutes and 30 seconds. That is, in the humidifying operation, the first predetermined time that is the duration time of the first operation and the second operation is set to 3 minutes 30 seconds.

  First, the first operation of the humidifying operation will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the first operation of the humidifying operation, the switching mechanism (40) sets the air circulation path to the first path. Specifically, the second inside air damper (42), the first outside air side damper (43), the first air supply side damper (45), and the second exhaust side damper (48) are opened, and the first inside air is discharged. The side damper (41), the second outside air side damper (44), the second air supply side damper (46), and the first exhaust side damper (47) are closed. In this first operation, the four-way selector valve (54) is set to the first state (the state shown in FIG. 3A). In the refrigerant circuit (50), a refrigeration cycle is performed, the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functions as a condenser (that is, a radiator), and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functions as an evaporator. To do.

  The 1st air which flowed into the inside air side passage (32) flows into the 2nd heat exchanger room (38) through the 2nd inside air side damper (42), and the 2nd adsorption heat exchanger (52) is passed after that. pass. 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 to the outdoor space (201) through the exhaust port (21).

  On the other hand, the second air that has flowed into the outside air passage (34) flows into the first heat exchanger chamber (37) through the first outside air damper (43), and then 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. In the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the temperature of the second air rises somewhat. The second air humidified in 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 to the indoor space (200) through the air supply port (22).

  Next, the second operation of the humidifying operation will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the second operation of the humidifying operation, the switching mechanism (40) sets the air circulation route to the second route. Specifically, 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) are opened, and the second inside air The side 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 this second operation, the four-way selector valve (54) is set to the second state (the state shown in FIG. 3B). In the refrigerant circuit (50), a refrigeration cycle is performed, the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functions as a condenser (ie, a radiator), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functions as an evaporator. To do.

  The 1st air which flowed into the inside air side passage (32) flows into the 1st heat exchanger room (37) through the 1st inside air side damper (41), and the 1st adsorption heat exchanger (51) is passed after that. pass. 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 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 to the outdoor space (201) through the exhaust port (21).

  On the other hand, the second air flowing into the outside air passage (34) flows into the second heat exchanger chamber (38) through the second outside air damper (44), and then 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. In the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the temperature of the second air rises somewhat. The second air humidified in 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 to the indoor space (200) through the air supply port (22).

<Cooling operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the cooling operation, outdoor air is sucked into the casing (11) from the outside air inlet (24) as the first air, and indoor air is drawn from the inside air inlet (23) into the casing (11). Into the second air. In the refrigerant circuit (50), the compressor (53) operates to adjust the opening of the electric expansion valve (55). The humidity control apparatus (10) during the cooling operation performs only one of a first operation and a second operation described later.

  First, the first operation of the cooling operation will be described. This first operation is the same as the first operation of the dehumidifying operation shown in FIG. That is, in the first operation of the cooling operation, the first air that is outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) that functions as an evaporator, and the second air that is indoor air functions as a condenser. To pass through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51).

  During the first operation of the cooling operation, the amount of moisture adsorbed on the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) gradually increases. That is, the moisture content of the adsorbent in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) gradually increases. As the moisture content of the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) increases, the moisture in the first air becomes difficult to be adsorbed by the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). When the duration of the first operation of the cooling operation reaches a certain level (for example, about 20 minutes), the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is substantially saturated, and moisture in the first air Will not be adsorbed by the second adsorption heat exchanger (52).

  Thus, during the first operation of the cooling operation, in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the temperature of the first air decreases, but the absolute humidity does not decrease that much. For this reason, during the first operation of the cooling operation, the first air (outdoor air) cooled when passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is supplied to the indoor space (200).

  Next, the second operation of the cooling operation will be described. This second operation is the same as the second operation of the dehumidifying operation shown in FIG. That is, in the second operation of the cooling operation, the first air that is outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) that functions as an evaporator, and the second air that is indoor air functions as a condenser. To pass through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52).

  During the second operation of the cooling operation, the amount of moisture adsorbed on the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) gradually increases. That is, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) gradually increases. As the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) increases, the moisture in the first air becomes difficult to be adsorbed by the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). When the duration of the second operation of the cooling operation reaches a certain level (for example, about 20 minutes), the adsorbent in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is substantially saturated, and moisture in the first air Will not be adsorbed by the first adsorption heat exchanger (51).

  Thus, during the second operation of the cooling operation, in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the temperature of the first air is lowered, but the absolute humidity is not so lowered. Therefore, during the second operation of the cooling operation, the first air (outdoor air) cooled when passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is supplied to the indoor space (200).

<Heating operation>
In the humidity control device (10) during heating operation, outdoor air is sucked into the casing (11) from the outside air inlet (24) as second air, and indoor air is drawn from the inside air inlet (23) into the casing (11). Into the first air. In the refrigerant circuit (50), the compressor (53) operates to adjust the opening of the electric expansion valve (55). The humidity control apparatus (10) during the heating operation performs only one of a first operation and a second operation described later.

  First, the first operation of the heating operation will be described. This first operation is the same as the first operation of the humidifying operation shown in FIG. That is, in the first operation of the heating operation, the second air that is outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) that functions as a condenser, and the first air that is indoor air functions as an evaporator. To pass through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52).

  During the first operation of the heating operation, the amount of moisture adsorbed on the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) gradually decreases. That is, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) gradually decreases. As the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) decreases, it becomes difficult for moisture to desorb from the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). When the duration of the first operation of the heating operation reaches a certain level (for example, about 20 minutes), the moisture content of the adsorbent in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) becomes extremely low, and the first adsorption heat exchanger The amount of moisture given to the second air from (51) becomes almost zero.

  Thus, in the first operation of the heating operation, in the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the temperature of the first air rises, but the absolute humidity does not rise so much. For this reason, during the first operation of the heating operation, the second air (outdoor air) heated when passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is supplied to the indoor space (200).

  Next, the second operation of the heating operation will be described. This second operation is the same as the second operation of the humidifying operation shown in FIG. That is, in the second operation of the heating operation, the second air that is outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) that functions as a condenser, and the second air that is indoor air functions as an evaporator. To pass through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51).

  During the second operation of the heating operation, the amount of moisture adsorbed on the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) gradually decreases. That is, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) gradually decreases. As the moisture content of the adsorbent in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) decreases, it becomes difficult for moisture to desorb from the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). When the duration of the second operation of the heating operation reaches a certain level (for example, about 20 minutes), the moisture content of the adsorbent in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) becomes extremely low, and the second adsorption heat exchanger The amount of moisture applied to the second air from (52) becomes almost zero.

  Thus, in the second operation of the heating operation, in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the temperature of the first air rises, but the absolute humidity does not rise so much. For this reason, during the second operation of the heating operation, the second air (outdoor air) heated when passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is supplied to the indoor space (200).

<Simple ventilation operation>
In the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation, the compressor (53) of the refrigerant circuit (50) stops. The electric expansion valve (55) is normally held in a fully closed state. Further, in the humidity control apparatus (10) during the simple ventilation operation, the switching mechanism (40) is stopped, and the air circulation path is fixed to either the first path or the second path.

  When the air flow path is set to the first path, outdoor air and room air flow in the humidity control apparatus (10) as shown in FIG. That is, outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) after passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), and indoor air is discharged to the outdoor space (201) after passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). .

  On the other hand, when the air circulation path is set to the second path, outdoor air and room air flow in the humidity control apparatus (10) as shown in FIG. That is, outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) after passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), and indoor air is discharged to the outdoor space (201) after passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). .

  During the simple ventilation operation, the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) does not exchange moisture or heat with the air passing therethrough. Therefore, the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is without adjusting the temperature and the absolute humidity. Further, the room air is discharged to the outdoor space (201) as it is without adjusting the temperature and the absolute humidity.

-Controller control action-
As described above, the controller (95) includes the compressor control unit (96) and the operation mode determination unit (97) (see FIG. 4). Here, the operation performed by the compressor control unit (96) and the control operation performed by the operation mode determination unit (97) will be described. Here, the control operation performed by the controller (95) when starting the simple ventilation operation will also be described.

<Operation of compressor controller>
The compressor control unit (96) sets a target value (target frequency) of the operating frequency of the compressor (53) every time a predetermined determination time (for example, 10 minutes) elapses.

  The compressor control unit (96) calculates the absolute humidity of the room air (the room absolute humidity) using the measured values of the room air humidity sensor (92) and the room temperature sensor (91), and the room air humidity sensor (94) The absolute humidity of the outdoor air (outdoor absolute humidity) is calculated using the measured value of the temperature sensor (93). In addition, the set temperature and set relative humidity of the room air set by the user are input to the compressor control unit (96). The compressor control unit (96) calculates the target absolute humidity of the room air using the set temperature and the set relative humidity of the room air.

  Based on the absolute humidity of the indoor air, the absolute humidity of the outdoor air, the target absolute humidity of the indoor air, and the current operating frequency of the compressor (53), the compressor control unit (96) ) To set the target frequency. That is, when it is necessary to increase the amount of dehumidification or humidification in order to bring the absolute humidity of the room air close to the target absolute humidity, the compressor control unit (96) sets the target frequency of the compressor (53) to the current compressor ( Set a value higher than the operating frequency in 53). On the other hand, if the absolute humidity of the room air is already at the same level as the target absolute humidity, the compressor control unit (96) sets the target frequency of the compressor (53) Set to a value lower than the operating frequency of the compressor (53).

  The controller (95) outputs a control signal to the inverter so that the output frequency of the inverter becomes the target frequency set by the compressor control unit (96). When the output frequency of the inverter reaches the target frequency, the rotation speed of the compressor (53) (that is, the rotation speed of the electric motor that drives the compression mechanism) becomes a value corresponding to the target frequency.

<Operation of operation mode determination unit>
An operation mode determination part (97) determines the operation which a humidity control apparatus (10) should perform every time predetermined determination time (for example, 10 minutes) passes. That is, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects any one of the dehumidifying operation, the humidifying operation, the cooling operation, the heating operation, and the simple ventilation operation as an operation to be executed by the humidity control apparatus (10). .

  Below, the operation | movement which an operation mode determination part (97) performs is demonstrated, referring FIG. In the following description, the outdoor absolute humidity is the absolute humidity of the outdoor air calculated by the compressor control unit (96) using the measured values of the outdoor humidity sensor (94) and the outdoor temperature sensor (93). The absolute humidity is the absolute humidity of the room air calculated by the compressor controller (96) using the measured values of the room air humidity sensor (92) and the room air temperature sensor (91), and the target absolute humidity is the setting of the room air It is the target absolute humidity of the indoor air calculated by the compressor control unit (96) using the temperature and the set relative humidity. The outdoor air temperature is a measured value of the outdoor air temperature sensor (93), and the indoor air temperature is a measured value of the indoor air temperature sensor (91).

  First, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (1-1) is successful. The condition (1-1) is a condition that “the outdoor absolute humidity is equal to or higher than the target absolute humidity and the outdoor absolute humidity is equal to or higher than a predetermined reference humidity”. The reference humidity in the condition (1-1) is set to 9 g / kg (DA), for example.

  The condition (1-1) is a condition that is satisfied when the outdoor absolute humidity is equal to or higher than the target absolute humidity and the outdoor absolute humidity is relatively high. For this reason, when the condition (1-1) is satisfied, it may be necessary to dehumidify the outdoor air supplied to the room. Therefore, when the condition (1-1) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) performs an operation for selecting one of the dehumidifying operation, the cooling operation, and the simple ventilation operation.

  Specifically, when the condition (1-1) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (2-1) is satisfied. Condition (2-1) is a condition that “the target frequency of the compressor (53) is equal to or higher than the minimum frequency”. The minimum frequency of the compressor (53) is the lower limit value of the operating frequency adjustment range of the compressor (53).

  When the condition (2-1) is satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity of dehumidifying the outdoor air supplied to the room is high. Therefore, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the dehumidifying operation as an operation to be performed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In this case, the controller (95) outputs a control signal to the dampers (41 to 48) and the like so that the operating state of the humidity control device (10) is the dehumidifying operation. In the operation mode determination unit (97) of the present embodiment, it is necessary to adjust the humidity (dehumidification) of the outdoor air supplied to the room that both the condition (1-1) and the condition (2-1) are satisfied. This is the humidity control condition.

  When the condition (2-1) is not satisfied, the condition (2-2) is always satisfied. The condition (2-2) is a condition that “the target frequency of the compressor (53) is less than the lowest frequency”. When the condition (2-2) is satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity of dehumidifying the outdoor air supplied to the room is low. That is, when the condition (2-2) is satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity of causing the humidity control apparatus (10) to perform the dehumidifying operation is low. Therefore, when the condition (2-2) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) performs an operation for selecting one of the cooling operation and the simple ventilation operation.

  When the condition (2-2) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (3-2) is satisfied. Condition (3-2) is a condition that “the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor temperature”. In the situation where the condition (3-2) is satisfied, if the outdoor air is supplied to the room as it is, there is a possibility that the occupant may feel uncomfortable. Therefore, when the condition (3-2) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the cooling operation as an operation to be executed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In this case, the controller (95) outputs a control signal to the dampers (41 to 48) or the like so that the operation state of the humidity control apparatus (10) is the cooling operation. In the operation mode determination unit (97) of the present embodiment, the condition (3-2) is a determination condition indicating that the cooling operation should be selected.

  When the condition (3-2) is not satisfied, the condition (3-3) is always satisfied. The condition (3-3) is a condition that “the outdoor temperature is less than the room temperature”. In the situation where the condition (3-3) is satisfied, even if the outdoor air is supplied to the room as it is, there is no possibility of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants. Therefore, when the condition (3-3) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the simple ventilation operation as the operation to be performed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In this case, the controller (95) outputs a control signal to the dampers (41 to 48) and the like so that the operation state of the humidity control device (10) is the simple ventilation operation.

  When the condition (1-1) is not satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (1-4) is satisfied. The condition (1-4) is a condition that “the outdoor absolute humidity is equal to or lower than the target absolute humidity and the outdoor absolute humidity is equal to or lower than a predetermined reference humidity”. The reference humidity in the condition (1-4) is set to 9 g / kg (DA), for example.

  The condition (1-4) is a condition that is satisfied when the outdoor absolute humidity is equal to or lower than the target absolute humidity and the outdoor absolute humidity is relatively low. For this reason, when the condition (1-4) is satisfied, there is a possibility that the outdoor air supplied to the room needs to be humidified. Therefore, when the condition (1-4) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) performs an operation for selecting one of the humidification operation, the heating operation, and the simple ventilation operation.

  Specifically, when the condition (1-4) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (2-4) is satisfied. Condition (2-4) is a condition that “the target frequency of the compressor (53) is equal to or higher than the lowest frequency”.

  When the condition (2-4) is satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity for humidifying the outdoor air supplied to the room is high. Therefore, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the humidification operation as the operation to be performed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In this case, the controller (95) outputs a control signal to the dampers (41 to 48) and the like so that the operating state of the humidity control apparatus (10) is the humidifying operation. In the operation mode determination unit (97) of the present embodiment, it is necessary to adjust the humidity (humidification) of the outdoor air supplied to the room so that both the condition (1-4) and the condition (2-4) are satisfied. This is the humidity control condition.

  When the condition (2-4) is not satisfied, the condition (2-5) is always satisfied. Condition (2-5) is a condition that “the target frequency of the compressor (53) is less than the lowest frequency”. When the condition (2-5) is satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity for humidifying the outdoor air supplied to the room is low. That is, when the condition (2-5) is satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity of causing the humidity control apparatus (10) to perform the humidifying operation is low. Therefore, when the condition (2-5) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) performs an operation for selecting one of the heating operation and the simple ventilation operation.

  When the condition (2-5) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (3-5) is satisfied. The condition (3-5) is a condition that “the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the room temperature”. In the situation where the condition (3-5) is satisfied, if the outdoor air is supplied to the room as it is, there is a risk of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants. Therefore, when the condition (3-5) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the heating operation as the operation to be executed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In this case, the controller (95) outputs a control signal to the dampers (41 to 48) or the like so that the operation state of the humidity control apparatus (10) is the heating operation. In the operation mode determination unit (97) of the present embodiment, the condition (3-5) is a determination condition indicating that the heating operation should be selected.

  When the condition (3-5) is not satisfied, the condition (3-6) is always satisfied. Condition (3-6) is a condition that “the outdoor temperature exceeds the indoor temperature”. In the situation where the condition (3-6) is satisfied, even if the outdoor air is supplied to the room as it is, there is no possibility of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants. Therefore, when the condition (3-6) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the simple ventilation operation as the operation to be performed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In this case, the controller (95) outputs a control signal to the dampers (41 to 48) and the like so that the operation state of the humidity control device (10) is the simple ventilation operation.

  When both the condition (1-1) and the condition (1-4) are not satisfied, it can be determined that the necessity of adjusting the humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the room is low. Therefore, in this case, the operation mode determination unit (97) performs an operation for selecting one of the cooling operation, the heating operation, and the simple ventilation operation.

  Specifically, when the condition (1-1) and the condition (1-4) are not satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines whether the condition (1-7) is satisfied. Condition (1-7) is “the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor temperature, the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the cooling set temperature of the air conditioner (150), and the air conditioner (150) is performing the cooling operation. Is the condition. When this condition (1-7) is satisfied, if the outdoor air is supplied to the room as it is, the outdoor air having a relatively high temperature is blown out as it is into the indoor space (200) during the cooling, which is uncomfortable for the people in the room. There is a risk of giving. Therefore, when the condition (1-7) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the cooling operation as an operation to be performed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In the operation mode determination unit (97) of the present embodiment, the condition (1-7) is a determination condition indicating that the cooling operation should be selected.

  When the condition (1-7) is not satisfied (that is, when all of the condition (1-1), the condition (1-4), and the condition (1-7) are not satisfied), the operation mode determination unit (97) The success or failure of the condition (1-8) is determined. Condition (1-8) is that “the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor temperature, the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the heating set temperature of the air conditioner (150), and the air conditioner (150) is performing the heating operation. Is the condition. If the outdoor air is supplied to the room as it is when this condition (1-8) is satisfied, the outdoor air having a relatively low temperature is blown out as it is into the heated indoor space (200). There is a risk of giving. Therefore, when the condition (1-8) is satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) selects the heating operation as an operation to be executed by the humidity control apparatus (10). In the operation mode determination unit (97) of the present embodiment, the condition (1-8) is a determination condition indicating that the heating operation should be selected.

  When the condition (1-8) is not satisfied (that is, when all of the condition (1-1), the condition (1-4), the condition (1-7), and the condition (1-8) are not satisfied), the operation mode is determined. The unit (97) selects the simple ventilation operation as the operation to be performed by the humidity control apparatus (10). For example, when the air conditioner (150) is stopped, since the conditions (1-7) and (1-8) are not satisfied, the operation mode determination unit (97) Select simple ventilation operation as the operation to be performed. That is, the operation mode determination unit (97) prohibits the cooling operation and the heating operation when the air conditioner (150) is stopped.

  During the execution of the cooling operation and the heating operation, the operation mode determination unit (97) performs the following operation.

  When the humidity controller (10) is performing the cooling operation, the operation mode determination unit (97) monitors the refrigerant evaporation temperature and the outdoor dew point temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50). When the state in which the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the outdoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time (for example, 3 minutes), the operation mode determination unit (97) ) Is forcibly switched from the cooling operation to the simple ventilation operation.

  When the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the outdoor dew point temperature, moisture in the outdoor air condenses when the outdoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator. There is a risk that drain water is generated. Therefore, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines that the humidity control device (10) when the state in which the drain water can be generated in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator continues for a predetermined reference time. The operation for stopping the cooling operation and starting the simple ventilation operation is performed. Since the compressor (53) stops in simple ventilation operation, the outdoor air is not cooled in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52), so drain water is generated in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). I don't have to.

  Moreover, when the humidity control apparatus (10) is performing the heating operation, the operation mode determination unit (97) monitors the refrigerant evaporation temperature and the indoor dew point temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50). When the state in which the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time (for example, 3 minutes 30 seconds), the operation mode determination unit (97) (10) Forcibly switches the operation to be performed from heating operation to simple ventilation operation.

  When the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature, moisture in the indoor air is condensed when the indoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator. There is a risk that drain water is generated. Therefore, the operation mode determination unit (97) determines that the humidity control device (10) when the state in which the drain water can be generated in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator continues for a predetermined reference time. The operation for stopping the heating operation and starting the simple ventilation operation is performed. In simple ventilation operation, the compressor (53) stops, so the indoor air is not cooled in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). Therefore, drain water is generated in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). I don't have to.

<Control action when starting simple ventilation operation>
The controller (95) performs an operation of changing the flow paths of the outdoor air and the indoor air when the operation state of the humidity control apparatus (10) is switched from the cooling operation or the heating operation to the simple ventilation operation.

  The operation of the controller (95) when the humidity controller (10) stops the first operation of the cooling operation and starts the simple ventilation operation will be described.

  In the first operation of the cooling operation, the switching mechanism (40) configured by the dampers (41 to 48) sets the air circulation path to the second path (circulation path shown in FIG. 5). During the first operation of the cooling operation, the moisture content of the adsorbent in the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) that functions as an evaporator gradually increases, and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) that functions as a condenser. The moisture content of the adsorbent gradually decreases. For this reason, when the simple ventilation operation is started without changing the air flow path, the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) having a relatively high moisture content of the adsorbent, and the indoor space (200 ) May increase when the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) passes through. If it does so, damp outdoor air will be supplied indoors and there exists a possibility of giving an uncomfortable feeling to a resident.

  Therefore, when the humidity control apparatus (10) stops the first operation of the cooling operation and starts the simple ventilation operation, the controller (95) indicates that the air circulation path is the second path (circulation path shown in FIG. 5). The dampers (41 to 48) are operated so as to switch from the first route (the distribution route shown in FIG. 9) to the first route. When the air flow path is switched to the first path and the humidity controller (10) starts the simple ventilation operation, the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) having a relatively low moisture content of the adsorbent. . For this reason, when passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the absolute humidity of the outdoor air does not increase, and therefore there is no possibility of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants.

  The operation of the controller (95) when the humidity controller (10) stops the second operation of the cooling operation and starts the simple ventilation operation will be described.

  In the second operation of the cooling operation, the switching mechanism (40) configured by the dampers (41 to 48) sets the air flow path to the first path (flow path shown in FIG. 6). During the second operation of the cooling operation, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as an evaporator gradually increases, and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as a condenser is increased. The moisture content of the adsorbent gradually decreases. For this reason, when the simple ventilation operation is started without changing the air flow path, the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) having a relatively high moisture content of the adsorbent, and the indoor space (200 ) May increase when the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the first adsorbing heat exchanger (51) passes through. If it does so, damp outdoor air will be supplied indoors and there exists a possibility of giving an uncomfortable feeling to a resident.

  Therefore, when the humidity control apparatus (10) stops the second operation of the cooling operation and starts the simple ventilation operation, the controller (95) indicates that the air circulation path is the first path (circulation path shown in FIG. 6). The dampers (41 to 48) are operated so as to switch from to the second route (the distribution route shown in FIG. 10). When the air flow path is switched to the second path and the humidity control device (10) starts the simple ventilation operation, the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) having a relatively low moisture content of the adsorbent. . For this reason, when passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the absolute humidity of the outdoor air does not increase, and therefore there is no possibility of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants.

  The operation of the controller (95) when the humidity controller (10) stops the first operation of the heating operation and starts the simple ventilation operation will be described.

  In the first operation of the heating operation, the switching mechanism (40) configured by the dampers (41 to 48) sets the air flow path to the first path (flow path shown in FIG. 7). During the first operation of the heating operation, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as an evaporator gradually increases, and the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as a condenser is increased. The moisture content of the adsorbent gradually decreases. For this reason, when the simple ventilation operation is started without changing the air flow path, the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) having a relatively low moisture content of the adsorbent, and the indoor space (200 ) May be lowered when passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). If it does so, dry outdoor air will be supplied indoors and there exists a possibility of giving an unpleasant feeling to a resident.

  Therefore, when the humidity control apparatus (10) stops the first operation of the heating operation and starts the simple ventilation operation, the controller (95) indicates that the air circulation path is the first path (the circulation path shown in FIG. 7). The dampers (41 to 48) are operated so as to switch from to the second route (the distribution route shown in FIG. 10). When the air circulation path is switched to the second path and the humidity controller (10) starts the simple ventilation operation, the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) having a relatively high moisture content of the adsorbent. . For this reason, when passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), the absolute humidity of the outdoor air does not decrease, and therefore, there is no possibility of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants.

  The operation of the controller (95) when the humidity controller (10) stops the second operation of the heating operation and starts the simple ventilation operation will be described.

  In the second operation of the heating operation, the switching mechanism (40) configured by the dampers (41 to 48) sets the air circulation path to the second path (circulation path shown in FIG. 8). During the second operation of the heating operation, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as an evaporator gradually increases, and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as a condenser is increased. The moisture content of the adsorbent gradually decreases. For this reason, when the simple ventilation operation is started without changing the air flow path, the outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) having a relatively low moisture content of the adsorbent, and the indoor space (200 ) May be reduced when passing through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52). If it does so, dry outdoor air will be supplied indoors and there exists a possibility of giving an unpleasant feeling to a resident.

  Therefore, when the humidity control apparatus (10) stops the second operation of the heating operation and starts the simple ventilation operation, the controller (95) indicates that the air flow path is the second path (flow path shown in FIG. 8). The dampers (41 to 48) are operated so as to switch from the first route (the distribution route shown in FIG. 9) to the first route. When the air circulation path is switched to the first path and the humidity controller (10) starts the simple ventilation operation, the outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) having a relatively high moisture content of the adsorbent. . For this reason, when passing through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51), the absolute humidity of the outdoor air does not decrease, and therefore there is no possibility of giving uncomfortable feeling to the occupants.

-Effect of the embodiment-
The operation mode determination unit (97) of the controller (95) of the present embodiment does not need to adjust the humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200), but if the outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200) as it is, When there is a risk of discomfort to the occupants, the cooling operation or the heating operation is selected. The humidity control apparatus (10) during the cooling operation supplies outdoor air cooled when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator to the indoor space (200). Further, the humidity control apparatus (10) during the heating operation supplies the outdoor air heated when passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a condenser to the indoor space (200). Therefore, according to the present embodiment, when the humidity adjustment of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) is unnecessary, but the temperature adjustment is necessary, the temperature-controlled outdoor air is supplied to the indoor space (200). It is possible to ensure the comfort of the indoor space (200).

  When the controller (95) of the present embodiment changes the operation performed by the humidity control apparatus (10) from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation, the air flow path is changed from one of the first path and the second path to the other. Operate the dampers (41 to 48) to switch to. That is, outdoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) through which room air has passed at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation (ie, cooling operation or heating operation), and outdoor air passes at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation. The flow paths of the outdoor air and the indoor air are switched so that the indoor air passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). Therefore, it is possible to suppress changes in the absolute humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) after the start of the simple ventilation operation, and to ensure the comfort of the indoor space (200) after the start of the simple ventilation operation. Can do.

  When the operation mode determination unit (97) of the controller (95) of the present embodiment continues the state where the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the outdoor dew point temperature during the cooling operation over a predetermined reference time, The operation of the humidity controller (10) is forcibly switched from the cooling operation to the simple ventilation operation. In addition, when the operation mode determination unit (97) continues the state in which the evaporation temperature of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature during the heating operation for a predetermined reference time, the humidity control device (10) Forcibly switches from heating operation to simple ventilation operation. For this reason, the generation of drain water can be prevented in the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator during the cooling operation or the heating operation. As a result, it is possible to prevent failures caused by the generation of drain water and improve the reliability of the humidity control apparatus (10).

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment performs only the first operation and the second operation during the cooling operation and the heating operation. Therefore, the four-way selector valve (54) is not switched during the cooling operation and the heating operation. Therefore, the difference between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed in the refrigerant circuit (50) (that is, the difference between the pressure of the refrigerant sucked into the compressor (53) and the pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (53)). The power consumption of the compressor (53) during the cooling operation and the heating operation can be kept low.

  The reason will be explained. The cooling operation and the heating operation may be performed in a situation where the difference between the outdoor temperature and the indoor temperature is relatively small. On the other hand, the difference between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed in the refrigerant circuit (50) is set according to the difference between the outdoor temperature and the room temperature. Therefore, in principle, if the difference between the outdoor temperature and the room temperature is small, the difference between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed in the refrigerant circuit (50) can be reduced.

  However, the general four-way switching valve (54) includes a valve body that is driven using the pressure of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (50). For this reason, in order to move the valve body and switch the four-way switching valve (54), the difference between the high pressure and low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed in the refrigerant circuit (50) is set to a certain reference pressure difference (for example, about 0.4 MPa). ) It is necessary to set above.

  On the other hand, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the four-way selector valve (54) does not switch during the cooling operation and the heating operation. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, during the cooling operation and the heating operation, the difference between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed in the refrigerant circuit (50) is the reference pressure required to operate the four-way switching valve (54). It becomes possible to set a value smaller than the difference. As a result, as described above, the power consumption of the compressor (53) during the cooling operation and the heating operation can be kept low.

-Modification of the embodiment-
The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment may alternately repeat the first operation and the second operation for each second predetermined time during the sensible heat treatment operation (that is, during the cooling operation and the heating operation). . This second predetermined time is set to about 30 to 60 minutes, for example. That is, the second predetermined time is longer than 3 minutes, which is the duration time of the first operation and the second operation during the dehumidifying operation (that is, the first predetermined time), and the first operation and the second operation during the humidifying operation are longer. It is longer than 3 minutes 30 seconds, which is the duration (that is, the first predetermined time).

  Here, as the duration time of the first operation and the second operation becomes longer, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as an evaporator increases, and the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) ) Makes it difficult for moisture in the air to be adsorbed. Further, as the duration time of the first operation and the second operation becomes longer, the moisture content of the adsorbent of the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) functioning as a radiator decreases, and this adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52) Moisture does not easily desorb from the water. Therefore, in the sensible heat treatment operation (that is, the cooling operation and the heating operation) in which the duration time of the first operation and the second operation is longer than the humidity control operation (that is, the dehumidifying operation and the humidifying operation), the adsorption heat exchanger (51 , 52), the amount of change in the temperature of the first air and the second air becomes large, and the change in the absolute humidity of the first air and the second air when the heat passes through the adsorption heat exchanger (51, 52). The amount becomes smaller. Therefore, also in the sensible heat treatment operation of the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present modification, outdoor air whose temperature is mainly adjusted is supplied to the indoor space (200).

  In addition, the controller (95) of the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present modification is also used when the operation state of the humidity control apparatus (10) is switched from the sensible heat treatment operation (that is, the cooling operation and the heating operation) to the simple ventilation operation. The operation of changing the flow path of the outdoor air and the indoor air is performed. At that time, the controller (95) determines the air flow path in the simple ventilation operation based on the air flow path at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation. That is, when the air flow path at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation is the first path (the flow paths shown in FIGS. 6 and 7), the controller (95) sets the air flow path in the simple ventilation operation to the second flow path. Set to the route (distribution route shown in FIG. 10). On the other hand, when the air flow path at the end of the sensible heat treatment operation is the second path (the flow path shown in FIGS. 5 and 8), the controller (95) sets the air flow path in the simple ventilation operation to the first flow path. Set to the route (distribution route shown in FIG. 9).

  As described above, the present invention is useful for a humidity control apparatus that adjusts the humidity of air using an adsorption heat exchanger carrying an adsorbent.

10 Humidity control device
50 Refrigerant circuit
51 First adsorption heat exchanger
52 Second adsorption heat exchanger
53 Compressor
95 Controller
150 air conditioner
200 indoor space (200)
201 Outdoor space (201)

Claims (9)

A compressor (53), a first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and a second adsorption heat exchanger (52) each carrying an adsorbent, and a refrigerant circuit (50) for performing a refrigeration cycle;
A first operation in which the second air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as a radiator and the first air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as an evaporator; A second operation in which the second air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) functioning as a radiator and the first air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) functioning as an evaporator. Done
The outdoor air sucked as one of the first air and the second air is supplied to the indoor space (200), and the indoor air sucked as the other of the first air and the second air is discharged to the outdoor space (201). A humidity control device,
A humidity control operation in which the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated for a first predetermined time; and
A sensible heat treatment operation in which only one of the first operation and the second operation is performed, or the first operation and the second operation are alternately repeated for a second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time;
A simple ventilation operation for supplying outdoor air to the indoor space (200) and discharging the indoor air to the outdoor space (201) in a state where the compressor (53) is stopped can be selectively executed.
When the humidity control condition indicating that the humidity of the outdoor air supplied to the indoor space (200) needs to be adjusted is satisfied, the humidity control operation is selected. When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, A controller (95) for selecting either the heat treatment operation or the simple ventilation operation based on the outdoor temperature;
A humidity control apparatus that performs the operation selected by the controller (95). In claim 1,
When the operation to be performed is changed from the sensible heat treatment operation to the simple ventilation operation, the air passing through one of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is outdoor air. Switch from room air to room air, switch the air passing through the other of the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) from room air to outdoor air, and execute the simple ventilation operation. Humidity control device characterized by. In claim 1 or 2,
The controller (95) prohibits the sensible heat treatment operation when the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity controller is stopped. apparatus. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The humidity control operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as first air and indoor air is sucked in as second air is a dehumidifying operation,
When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the first air and sucking indoor air as the second air is a cooling operation,
The controller (95)
When the humidity control condition is satisfied, while selecting the dehumidifying operation,
When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the cooling operation is selected when the determination condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the room temperature is satisfied, and the simple ventilation operation is selected when the determination condition is not satisfied. Humidity control device. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The humidity control operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as first air and indoor air is sucked in as second air is a dehumidifying operation,
When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the first air and sucking indoor air as the second air is a cooling operation,
The controller (95)
When the humidity control condition is satisfied, while selecting the dehumidifying operation,
When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control apparatus is performing a cooling operation, and the outdoor temperature is equal to or higher than the indoor temperature, and The cooling operation is selected when the determination condition that the outdoor air temperature is equal to or higher than the cooling set temperature of the air conditioner (150) is satisfied, and the simple ventilation operation is selected when the determination condition is not satisfied. Humidity control device. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the first air and sucking indoor air as the second air is a cooling operation,
When the state in which the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the outdoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time during the cooling operation, the controller (95) A humidity control device forcibly switching from the cooling operation to the simple ventilation operation. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The humidity control operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as second air and indoor air is sucked in as first air is a humidifying operation,
When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the second air and sucking indoor air as the first air is a heating operation,
The controller (95)
When the humidity control condition is satisfied, while selecting the humidification operation,
When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the heating operation is selected when the determination condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the room temperature is satisfied, and the simple ventilation operation is selected when the determination condition is not satisfied. Humidity control device. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The humidity control operation performed in a state in which outdoor air is sucked in as second air and indoor air is sucked in as first air is a humidifying operation,
When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the second air and sucking indoor air as the first air is a heating operation,
The controller (95)
When the humidity control condition is satisfied, while selecting the humidification operation,
When the humidity control condition is not satisfied, the air conditioner (150) that blows air to the same indoor space (200) as the humidity control apparatus is performing heating operation, and the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the indoor temperature, and The heating operation is selected when the determination condition that the outdoor temperature is equal to or lower than the heating set temperature of the air conditioner (150) is satisfied, and the simple ventilation operation is selected when the determination condition is not satisfied. Humidity control device. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
When the sensible heat treatment operation performed in a state of sucking outdoor air as the second air and sucking indoor air as the first air is a heating operation,
When the state in which the refrigerant evaporation temperature in the refrigerant circuit (50) is lower than the indoor dew point temperature continues for a predetermined reference time during the heating operation, the controller (95) A humidity control device forcibly switching from a heating operation to the simple ventilation operation.

Images