JP2018087650A - Humidifier - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a humidifier capable of preventing the deterioration of its performance caused by dirt resulting from dust or the like sticking to a rotor in an adsorption area.SOLUTION: There is provided a humidifier 60 comprising a humidifying heater, a humidifying rotor 63, a humidifying fan and a flow-path switching mechanism 140. The humidifying rotor revolves around an adsorption area 63a and a desorption area 63b to adsorb moisture in air at the adsorption area and to desorb the moisture at the desorption area by virtue of the heat from the humidifying heater. The humidifying fan sends air containing the moisture desorbed from the humidifying rotor at the desorption area. The flow-path switching mechanism 140 is disposed downstream in the air flow direction relative to the humidifying fan and changes over the conditions of air flow sent from the humidifying fan at least between a first condition and a second condition. In the first condition, the air sent from the humidifying fan flows toward a space to be humidified. In the second condition, the air sent from the humidifying fan flows toward the adsorption area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to a humidifier. In particular, the present invention relates to a humidifier including a rotor that circulates in an adsorption area and a desorption area, adsorbs moisture from air in the adsorption area, and desorbs moisture in the desorption area.

Conventionally, a humidifier for humidifying a humidification target space is known.

  For example, Cited Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-118312) discloses a humidifier mounted on an outdoor unit of an air conditioner. In the humidifying device of Cited Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-118312), the rotor circulates around the adsorption area and the desorption area, adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area, and desorbs moisture in the desorption area.

  In such a humidifier, dirt such as dust in the outside air adheres to the rotor in the adsorption area, which may reduce the efficiency of the humidifier.

  The subject of this invention is providing the humidification apparatus which can suppress that a performance falls by dirt, such as dust adhering to a rotor in an adsorption | suction area.

  A humidifier according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a heater, a rotor, a fan, and a flow path switching mechanism. The rotor goes around the adsorption area and the desorption area. The rotor adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area, and desorbs the moisture by the heat of the heater in the desorption area. The fan blows air containing moisture desorbed from the rotor in the desorption area. The flow path switching mechanism is disposed on the downstream side in the air blowing direction of the fan, and switches the flow state of the air blown from the fan between at least the first state and the second state. In the first state, air blown from the fan flows into the humidification target space. In the second state, air blown from the fan flows to the adsorption area.

  In the humidifying device according to the first aspect of the present invention, an air flow generated by a fan used for sending moisture-containing air to the humidification target space can be sent to the adsorption area of the rotor. Therefore, dirt (attachment) such as dust adhering to the rotor in the suction area can be removed using the airflow of the humidifying fan, and the efficiency reduction of the humidifying device can be suppressed.

  A humidifying device according to a second aspect of the present invention is the humidifying device according to the first aspect, and when the rotor adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area during the humidification operation, the adsorbed air flow penetrates the rotor in the adsorption area. Then flow. In the second state, the air blown from the fan is supplied downstream from the rotor in the flow direction of the adsorbed air flow.

  In the humidifier according to the second aspect of the present invention, an air flow in the opposite direction to the adsorbed air flow (the air flow flowing through the rotor in the adsorbing area during the humidifying operation) can be generated in the adsorption area. Therefore, it is easy to remove dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor during the humidifying operation from the rotor.

  A humidifying device according to a third aspect of the present invention is the humidifying device according to the second aspect, wherein air flows through the rotor in the same direction as the adsorbed air flow in the adsorption area during a predetermined period other than during the humidifying operation. .

  In the humidifying device according to the third aspect of the present invention, in the adsorption area, air flows through the rotor in the same direction as during the humidifying operation in addition to during the humidifying operation, so that dirt such as dust tends to adhere to the rotor. However, here, dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor can be removed using the airflow of the humidifying fan, so that a reduction in efficiency of the humidifying device can be suppressed.

  A humidifier according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the humidifier according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the fan is operated and the flow path switching mechanism is blown from the fan before the start of the humidification operation. The air flow state is switched to the second state.

  Here, the fact that the fan is operated before the start of the humidifying operation includes a case where this state is maintained when the fan is already operated. Further, here, when the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of the air blown from the fan to the second state before the humidification operation is started, the flow state of the air blown from the fan is already switched to the second state. This includes the case where this state is maintained when

  In the humidifying device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor before the start of the humidifying operation can be removed using the airflow of the humidifying fan. Therefore, it is easy to operate the humidifier efficiently.

  A humidifier according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the humidifier according to any of the first to fourth aspects, and the humidifier is mounted on an outdoor unit of an air conditioner. The outdoor unit has an outdoor fan and a heat exchanger. When the outdoor fan is operated, air flows through the rotor in the adsorption area regardless of whether the humidifying operation is being performed. After the outdoor fan is stopped, the fan is operated, and the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of the air blown from the fan to the second state.

  Here, the operation of the fan after the outdoor fan is stopped includes a case where this state is maintained when the fan is already operating. Further, here, when the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of the air blown from the fan to the second state after the outdoor fan is stopped, the flow state of the air blown from the fan is already switched to the second state. Including the case of maintaining this state when

  In the humidifying device according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, after a situation occurs in which dirt such as dust adheres to the rotor in the adsorption area, dust or the like attached to the rotor using the airflow of the humidifying fan is used. Dirt can be removed. Therefore, it is easy to operate the humidifier efficiently.

  A humidifier according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the humidifier according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of the air blown from the fan to the second state. The rotor goes around the adsorption area and the desorption area.

  In the humidifying device according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, since air flows from the fan to the suction area while the rotor is rotating, it is easy to remove dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor without leaving it. .

  In the humidifying device according to the first aspect of the present invention, an air flow generated by a fan used for sending moisture-containing air to the humidification target space can be sent to the adsorption area of the rotor. Therefore, dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor in the suction area can be removed by using the airflow of the humidifying fan, and a reduction in efficiency of the humidifying device can be suppressed.

  In the humidifying device according to the second aspect of the present invention, in the adsorption area, an air flow in the direction opposite to the adsorbed air flow can be generated, so that dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor during the humidification operation is removed from the rotor. Easy to remove.

  In the humidifier according to the third aspect of the present invention, it is easy to suppress a decrease in efficiency of the humidifier even under conditions where dirt such as dust is likely to adhere to the rotor.

  In the humidifier according to the fourth aspect and the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is easy to suppress the efficiency reduction of the humidifier.

  In the humidifying device according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is easy to remove dirt such as dust adhering to the rotor without leaving it behind.

It is a schematic block diagram of the air conditioning machine which has the outdoor unit by which the humidification apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is mounted. It is a schematic plan view of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner of FIG. The outdoor unit with the top plate removed is drawn. It is a schematic front view of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner of FIG. The outdoor unit is depicted with the protective grille removed from the front plate. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the humidification rotor of the humidification apparatus of FIG. 1, and the flow of the air which passes a humidification rotor at the time of humidification operation. It is a schematic perspective view of the humidification apparatus of FIG. The humidifying device with the humidifying heater removed is drawn. It is a schematic perspective view of a humidification device for demonstrating blowing of the air of the path | route for dust removal which the humidification device of FIG. 1 has. The humidification device is depicted with the humidification heater and the suction duct removed. It is a block diagram of the outdoor unit of the air conditioner of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the dust removal process which the humidification apparatus of FIG. 1 performs. The flow of a process at the time of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 being drive | operated in the state which does not perform a humidification driving | operation of a humidifier is shown. It is a flowchart explaining the dust removal process which the humidification apparatus of FIG. 1 performs. The flow of a process when the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is drive | operated in the state which the humidification apparatus is performing humidification operation is shown.

  A humidifier 60 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are specific examples of the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

(1) The whole structure of the air conditioner by which a humidifier and a humidifier are mounted The humidifier 60 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is mounted in the air conditioner 10 (refer FIG. 1). As will be described later, the humidifier 60 is mounted on the outdoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10 (see FIG. 1), and its operation is controlled by the outdoor side control unit 51 (see FIG. 7) of the outdoor unit 30. The humidifier 60 operates as if it is a part of the air conditioner 10.

  The air conditioner 10 in which the humidifying device 60 is mounted is configured to be capable of performing a cooling operation for cooling a room that is an air-conditioning target space and a heating operation for heating a room that is an air-conditioning target space. The air conditioner 10 may be configured to be able to execute other operation modes, for example, a dehumidifying operation and a blowing operation. The operation content of the air conditioner 10 is determined based on, for example, a command from a remote controller (not shown) operated by the user of the air conditioner 10, the temperature of the air-conditioning target space, or the like.

  The humidifier 60 is configured to perform a humidifying operation in which moisture in outdoor air is adsorbed by a humidifying rotor 63 described later, and the adsorbed moisture is desorbed and supplied to the humidifying target space. The humidification target space is the same space as the air conditioning target space of the air conditioner 10. Here, the humidifier 60 is configured to be able to execute the humidifying operation only when the air conditioner 10 is in the heating operation. However, the humidifier 60 may be configured to be able to perform the humidifying operation other than when the air conditioner 10 is performing the heating operation.

  The air conditioner 10 can execute the cooling operation and the heating operation regardless of whether the humidifying device 60 is performing a humidifying operation or whether the humidifying device 60 has stopped the humidifying operation.

  Whether or not the humidifying device 60 performs the humidifying operation is determined based on, for example, a command from a remote controller (not shown) operated by the user of the air conditioner 10 equipped with the humidifying device 60, the humidity of the humidifying target space, or the like. The

  The air conditioner 10 mainly includes an indoor unit 20 and an outdoor unit 30 (see FIG. 1). A refrigerant circuit 90 is configured by connecting the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 30 by the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14 and the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16 (see FIG. 1). The refrigerant moves between the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 30 via the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14 and the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16 and circulates in the refrigerant circuit 90. The refrigerant circuit 90 mainly includes a compressor 31 of the outdoor unit 30 described later, a four-way switching valve 32, an outdoor heat exchanger 33, an electric expansion valve 34, an accumulator 36, and the indoor heat exchanger 21 of the outdoor unit 30 ( (See FIG. 1). When the refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit 90, a vapor compression refrigeration cycle is performed in the air conditioner 10. In addition, although it does not limit, the kind of refrigerant | coolant is R32 of a HFC refrigerant | coolant, for example.

  A humidifier 60 is mounted on the outdoor unit 30. There is air movement between the outdoor unit 30 and the indoor unit 20 via the air supply hose 18 (see FIG. 1). The air supply hose 18 is an air flow path for supplying outdoor air to the humidification target space during the humidification operation of the humidifier 60. During the humidification operation, high-humidity air containing a large amount of moisture is supplied from the outdoor unit 30 side (humidification device 60) to the indoor unit 20 via the air supply hose 18.

(2) Detailed configuration of air conditioner The detailed configuration of the air conditioner 10 on which the humidifier 60 is mounted will be described below separately for the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 30.

  Note that, as described above, in the present embodiment, the humidifier 60 operates as if it is a part of the air conditioner 10. Therefore, here, the humidifier 60 will also be described in the description of the outdoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10.

(2-1) Indoor Unit As shown in FIG. 1, the indoor unit 20 mainly includes an indoor heat exchanger 21 and an indoor fan 22.

  Although the indoor heat exchanger 21 is not limited, For example, it is a cross fin type fin and tube type heat exchanger comprised with the heat exchanger tube and the heat exchanger fin. The liquid side of the indoor heat exchanger 21 is connected to the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14 (see FIG. 1). The gas side of the indoor heat exchanger 21 is connected to the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16 (see FIG. 1). In the indoor heat exchanger 21, heat exchange is performed between the indoor air and the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tubes. The indoor heat exchanger 21 functions as an evaporator (heat absorber) during cooling operation and cools indoor air. The indoor heat exchanger 21 functions as a condenser (heat radiator) during heating operation and heats indoor air.

  The indoor fan 22 is driven by a fan motor (not shown), takes in indoor air and blows it to the indoor heat exchanger 21, and promotes heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air in the indoor heat exchanger 21. Although the indoor fan 22 is not limited, it is a crossflow fan, for example. The indoor fan 22 is disposed on the downstream side of the indoor heat exchanger 21 in the air flow direction during operation of the indoor fan 22. When the indoor fan 22 is driven, indoor air is sucked from the upper inlet of the indoor unit 20, passes through the indoor heat exchanger 21, and is blown out from the lower outlet of the indoor unit 20.

  The indoor unit 20 is connected to the outdoor unit 30 via the air supply hose 18 (see FIG. 1). The air supply port 25 of the air supply hose 18 is disposed in the upstream space of the indoor heat exchanger 21 in the air flow direction during operation of the indoor fan 22. The other end side of the air supply hose 18 opposite to the air supply port 25 is connected to a flow path switching mechanism 140 of the humidifier 60 described later. When the humidifying device 60 is performing a humidifying operation, high-humidity air sent from the humidifying device 60 is supplied from the air supply port 25 to the upstream space of the indoor heat exchanger 21. When the indoor fan 22 is driven in a state where high humidity air is supplied from the air supply port 25, high humidity air is blown out from the indoor unit 20 into the room.

(2-2) Outdoor Unit The outdoor unit 30 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. The description of the outdoor unit 30 includes the description of the humidifier 60.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the outdoor unit 30 from which a top plate 48 of the casing 40 described later is removed. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the outdoor unit 30 from which a later-described protective grill 56 is removed. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a humidifying rotor 63 of the humidifying device 60 described later and a flow of air passing through the humidifying rotor 63 during the humidifying operation. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of the humidifying device 60 with the humidifying heater 71 described later removed. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the humidifying device 60 for explaining the blowing of air through the dust removal path 100 of the humidifying device 60. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the outdoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10.

  In the following explanation, there are cases where the placement and orientation are described using expressions such as “up”, “down”, “left”, “right”, “front (front)”, “rear (back)”. Unless otherwise specified, these expressions follow the arrows shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG.

  The outdoor unit 30 mainly includes a casing 40, a compressor 31, a four-way switching valve 32, an outdoor heat exchanger 33, an electric expansion valve 34, an accumulator 36, an outdoor fan 39, a liquid side closing valve 37, and a gas side closing valve 38. And an electrical component unit 50 (see FIGS. 1 to 3). Moreover, the humidifier 60 is mounted in the outdoor unit 30 (refer FIG. 1).

  The compressor 31, the four-way switching valve 32, the outdoor heat exchanger 33, the electric expansion valve 34, the accumulator 36, the liquid side closing valve 37, and the gas side closing valve 38 are connected by a refrigerant pipe. Specifically, the suction port of the compressor 31 and the four-way switching valve 32 are connected by a suction pipe 91. The suction pipe 91 is provided with an accumulator 36. The discharge port of the compressor 31 and the four-way switching valve 32 are connected by a discharge pipe 92. The four-way switching valve 32 and the gas side of the outdoor heat exchanger 33 are connected by a first gas refrigerant pipe 93. The outdoor heat exchanger 33 and the liquid side closing valve 37 connected to the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14 are connected by a liquid refrigerant pipe 94. The liquid refrigerant pipe 94 is provided with an electric expansion valve 34. The four-way switching valve 32 and the gas side closing valve 38 connected to the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16 are connected by a second gas refrigerant pipe 95.

(2-2-1) Casing The casing 40 includes various configurations of the outdoor unit 30 such as the compressor 31, the four-way switching valve 32, the outdoor heat exchanger 33, the electric expansion valve 34, the accumulator 36, the outdoor fan 39, and humidification. A housing that houses the device 60.

  The casing 40 mainly includes a left side plate 45, a front plate 46, a right side plate 47, a top plate 48, a bottom plate 49, a back surface portion 44, and a partition plate 43 (see FIGS. 2 and 3).

  The inside of the casing 40 is divided into a blower chamber 41 and a machine chamber 42 by a partition plate 43 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In the blower chamber 41, an outdoor heat exchanger 33 and an outdoor fan 39 are mainly disposed. In the machine room 42, a compressor 31, a four-way switching valve 32, an electric expansion valve 34, and an accumulator 36 are mainly disposed. The humidifier 60 is disposed across the blower chamber 41 and the machine chamber 42. That is, the humidifying device 60 is partially disposed in the blower chamber 41 and partially disposed in the machine chamber 42.

  The partition plate 43 extends from the top plate 48 side toward the bottom plate 49 side. The partition plate 43 extends in a curved shape from the inner surface side of the front plate 46 toward the right end of the outdoor heat exchanger 33 (see FIG. 2). The partition plate 43 shields the wind from flowing from the blower chamber 41 into the machine chamber 42.

  The front plate 46 is formed with a circular outlet 46a on the lower left side (see FIG. 3). A ring-shaped bell mouth 52 is attached to the air outlet 46a along the periphery thereof (see FIG. 3). When the outdoor fan 39 is driven, outdoor air is sucked in from the back side and the left side of the outdoor heat exchanger 33, passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 33, and is blown out from the outlet 46a. A protective grill 56 is attached to the front plate 46 of the casing 40 in order to prevent the outdoor fan 39 (described later) from coming into contact with the propeller 39b (see FIG. 2). The protective grill 56 covers the air outlet 46a. The protective grill 56 is formed with a plurality of openings for blowing out air.

  Further, the front plate 46 is formed with a suction opening 46b for supplying outdoor air to a humidifying rotor 63 of the humidifying device 60 described later (see FIG. 3). The suction opening 46 b is provided on the upper right side of the air outlet 46 a of the front plate 46. The suction opening 46b is an opening formed in a fan shape. The suction opening 46b is an opening formed in a fan shape with a central angle of about 240 °. In addition, the shape of the suction opening 46b is an example, Comprising: It is not limited to the shape shown here.

(2-2-2) Compressor The compressor 31 is disposed in the machine room 42 and fixed to the bottom plate 49.

  The compressor 31 drives a compression mechanism (not shown) by a motor (not shown) to compress the refrigerant. The compressor 31 is a rotary compressor, for example. However, the type of the compressor 31 is not limited to the rotary compressor, and may be another type of compressor such as a scroll compressor. The compressor 31 is preferably an inverter-driven compressor with variable frequency. The compressor 31 sucks the refrigerant from the suction pipe 91 and discharges the high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant compressed by a compression mechanism (not shown) to the discharge pipe 92.

(2-2-3) Four-way switching valve The four-way switching valve 32 is disposed in the machine room 42.

  The four-way switching valve 32 switches the flow direction of the refrigerant when the air conditioner 10 is switched between the cooling operation and the heating operation.

  During the cooling operation, the four-way switching valve 32 connects the discharge pipe 92 and the first gas refrigerant pipe 93 and also connects the suction pipe 91 and the second gas refrigerant pipe 95 (four-way switching valve 32 in FIG. 1). (See the solid line inside.) During the heating operation, the four-way switching valve 32 connects the discharge pipe 92 and the second gas refrigerant pipe 95 and also connects the suction pipe 91 and the first gas refrigerant pipe 93 (four-way switching valve 32 in FIG. 1). (See dashed line inside).

(2-2-4) Outdoor Heat Exchanger The outdoor heat exchanger 33 is disposed in the blower chamber 41.

  The outdoor heat exchanger 33 is a cross fin type fin-and-tube heat exchanger configured by heat transfer tubes and heat transfer fins, although not limited thereto. In the outdoor heat exchanger 33, heat is exchanged between the outdoor air and the refrigerant flowing through the heat transfer tubes. The outdoor heat exchanger 33 functions as a condenser (heat radiator) during the cooling operation, and functions as an evaporator (heat absorber) during the heating operation.

  The outdoor heat exchanger 33 is formed in an L shape so as to face the back surface portion 44 and the left side plate 45 of the casing 40 (see FIG. 2). The outdoor heat exchanger 33 extends from the vicinity of the bottom plate 49 to the vicinity of the top plate 48.

(2-2-5) Electric Expansion Valve The electric expansion valve 34 is disposed in the machine room 42.

  The electric expansion valve 34 is an electric expansion valve with a variable opening, which is provided to adjust the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit 90.

(2-2-6) Accumulator The accumulator 36 is disposed in the machine room 42.

  The accumulator 36 is provided in the suction pipe 91. The accumulator 36 separates the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant into a gas-phase refrigerant and a liquid-phase refrigerant. By providing the accumulator 36 in the suction pipe 91, a gas-phase refrigerant is mainly supplied to the compressor 31.

(2-2-7) Outdoor Fan The outdoor fan 39 is disposed in the blower chamber 41. The outdoor fan 39 is provided on the downstream side of the outdoor heat exchanger 33 in the air flow direction during operation of the outdoor fan 39. The outdoor fan 39 supplies outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger 33 and promotes heat exchange between the outdoor air and the refrigerant in the outdoor heat exchanger 33.

  The outdoor fan 39 mainly includes a fan motor 39a and a propeller 39b (see FIG. 2).

  A part of the propeller 39b is arranged so as to enter a space surrounded by the bell mouth 52 attached to the air outlet 46a of the front plate 46 of the casing 40 (see FIG. 2). The fan motor 39a drives the propeller 39b. When the propeller 39b is driven by the fan motor 39a, outdoor air is taken into the blower chamber 41 from the back side and the left side of the casing 40. The outdoor air taken into the blower chamber 41 passes through the outdoor heat exchanger 33 and is then discharged from the blower outlet 46a to the outside of the blower chamber 41.

  During the humidifying operation of the humidifier 60, when a humidifying rotor 63 (described later) adsorbs moisture from outdoor air in an adsorption area 63a (described later), outdoor air flows through the humidifying rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a. The flow of air that flows through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a during the humidification operation is referred to herein as an adsorption air flow. In the present embodiment, the outdoor fan 39 also functions as an air supply fan that supplies outdoor air to the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a during the humidifying operation of the humidifier 60, that is, generates an adsorbed air flow. Specifically, during the humidification operation of the humidifier 60, the propeller 39b is driven by the fan motor 39a, so that outdoor air is taken into the blower chamber 41 from the suction opening 46b, and the taken outdoor air is absorbed into the adsorption area. It passes through the humidification rotor 63 at 63a.

  In the air conditioner 10, the air supply to the humidification rotor 63 by the outdoor fan 39 is always performed not only during the humidification operation of the humidification device 60 but also during the operation of the outdoor fan 39. That is, in the humidifying device 60 of the present embodiment, in the adsorption area 63a during a predetermined period other than during the humidifying operation (when the humidifying operation is not performed and the outdoor fan 39 of the air conditioner 10 is operated). The air flows through the humidification rotor 63. In other words, in the humidifying device 60 of the present embodiment, when the outdoor fan 39 is operated, air flows through the humidifying rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a regardless of whether or not the humidifying operation is being performed. Note that, even when the humidifying device 60 is in the humidifying operation or during a predetermined period other than during the humidifying operation, the air is passed through the humidifying rotor 63 in the same direction (from the front side to the rear side) in the adsorption area 63a. Flowing. That is, the direction of the adsorbed air flow is the same as the direction of air flowing through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a during a predetermined period other than during the humidifying operation. When the outdoor fan 39 is operated, the air that has passed through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a is discharged from the blower outlet 46a formed in the front plate 46 to the outside of the blower chamber 41.

(2-2-8) Liquid-side closing valve and gas-side closing valve The liquid-side closing valve 37 and the gas-side closing valve 38 are three-way valves provided with service ports.

  A liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14 for exchanging refrigerant between the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 30 and a liquid refrigerant pipe 94 are connected to the liquid side closing valve 37. When the air conditioner 10 is in operation, the liquid side shut-off valve 37 is opened, and the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14 and the liquid refrigerant pipe 94 communicate with each other.

  A gas refrigerant communication pipe 16 that exchanges refrigerant between the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 30 and a second gas refrigerant pipe 95 are connected to the gas side shut-off valve 38. When the air conditioner 10 is in operation, the gas-side shut-off valve 38 is opened, and the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16 and the second gas refrigerant pipe 95 communicate with each other.

(2-2-9) Humidifier The humidifier 60 adsorbs moisture in the outdoor air, desorbs the adsorbed moisture, and supplies it to the room that is the humidification target space. As shown in FIG. 2, the humidifier 60 is disposed between the front plate 46 and the back surface portion 44 so as to straddle the blower chamber 41 and the machine chamber 42.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the humidifier 60 includes a humidification rotor 63, an adsorption duct 68, a humidification heater 71, a first humidification duct 73, a humidification fan 75, a second humidification duct 180, and a flow path switching mechanism. 140, and a dust removal path 100.

(2-2-9-1) Humidification rotor The humidification rotor 63 is an example of a rotor. The humidification rotor 63 adsorbs moisture in the air. Further, the humidification rotor 63 releases the adsorbed moisture by being heated.

  The humidification rotor 63 is a disk-shaped member as shown in FIGS. The material of the humidification rotor 63 is not limited, but is an adsorbent such as silica gel or zeolite. The humidification rotor 63 has a honeycomb structure. Adsorbents such as silica gel and zeolite adsorb moisture from air at room temperature, and release moisture when the temperature rises due to exposure to air heated by a heater.

  The humidification rotor 63 faces the suction opening 46 b formed in the front plate 46. The humidification rotor 63 faces the humidification heater 71 disposed between the humidification rotor 63 and the front plate 46. The humidification rotor 63 adsorbs moisture in a fan-shaped region having a central angle of about 240 ° facing the suction opening 46b. A region where the humidifying rotor 63 adsorbs moisture from outdoor air is referred to as an adsorption area 63a (see FIG. 4). Further, the humidification rotor 63 desorbs moisture in a fan-shaped region adjacent to the suction area 63a and not facing the suction opening 46b and having a central angle of about 120 °. A region where moisture adsorbed by the humidification rotor 63 is desorbed by the heat of the humidification heater 71 is referred to as a desorption area 63b (see FIG. 4). The humidification rotor 63 faces the humidification heater 71 in the detachment area 63b. The adsorption area 63a is disposed closer to the bell mouth 52 than the desorption area 63b.

  The humidification rotor 63 is driven and rotated by a rotor driving motor 64 (see FIG. 3) of the humidification device 60, and goes around the adsorption area 63a and the desorption area 63b. That is, in the humidifying rotor 63, a portion arranged in the adsorption area 63a at a certain rotation angle is arranged in the desorption area 63b at another rotation angle. Further, the humidifying rotor 63 is arranged in the desorption area 63b at a certain rotation angle, and is arranged in the suction area 63a at another rotation angle. The rotation center axis of the humidification rotor 63 is arranged coaxially with the fan-shaped center axis of the suction opening 46 b formed in the front plate 46.

  A mechanism for rotating the humidification rotor 63 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. The humidification rotor 63 is surrounded by an annular frame body 65. A gear 65t is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the frame body 65 as shown in FIG. The gear 65t meshes with a pinion gear 64a that rotates when the rotor driving motor 64 is driven (see FIG. 3). When the rotor drive motor 64 is driven and the pinion gear 64a rotates, the humidifying rotor 63 rotates together with the frame body 65.

  In addition, in order to suppress that air passes the outer side of the frame body 65, without passing through the humidification rotor 63, the circumference | surroundings of the frame body 65 are surrounded by the wall (refer FIG. 6).

(2-2-9-2) Adsorption Duct As shown in FIG. 5, the humidifier 60 has an adsorption duct 68 for introducing outside air to the adsorption area 63a. The suction duct 68 has an air inlet 681 that opens toward the suction opening 46 b of the front plate 46. The shape of the air inlet 681 is a fan shape having the same central angle as that of the suction opening 46b of about 240 °.

  The outdoor air flowing in from the suction opening 46b is sucked from the air inlet 681, and then flows in the suction duct 68 to reach the suction area 63a. In the adsorption area 63a, moisture in the outdoor air is adsorbed by the humidification rotor 63. The air that has passed through the humidification rotor 63 is discharged from the air outlet 683 (see FIG. 3) of the adsorption duct 68. The air outlet 683 is adjacent to a space that becomes negative pressure when the outdoor fan 39 rotates, specifically, an upstream end portion of the bell mouth 52. Air is sucked from the air inlet 681 by the action of the pressure on the air outlet 683 side being lower than the pressure on the air inlet 681 side.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the suction opening 46b is provided in the right diagonal upper side of the blower outlet 46a of the front board 46 adjacent to the blower outlet 46a. The air pushed forward by the outdoor fan 39 advances along the bell mouth 52 and is blown out from the blower outlet 46a, so that the air blown out from the blower outlet 46a is hardly sucked from the suction opening 46b. Therefore, the humidification rotor 63 can take in air containing more moisture in the adsorption area 63a. This will be described in more detail.

  The humidifying operation is usually performed during the heating operation. During the heating operation, the air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger 33 that functions as an evaporator (heat absorber) is low in temperature and humidity. When air with a low moisture content is sucked from the suction opening 46b, the moisture content that can be adsorbed by the humidification rotor 63 decreases. However, since the air that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger 33 is not sucked from the suction opening 46b, relatively much moisture-containing air can be taken in from the suction opening 46b.

(2-2-9-3) Humidification heater The humidification heater 71 is a heater for heating the humidification rotor 63. The humidification rotor 63 releases (desorbs) moisture by being heated by the heat of the humidification heater 71 in the desorption area 63b. Specifically, the humidification heater 71 heats the air sent to the desorption area 63b in order to release moisture from the humidification rotor 63 in the desorption area 63b. The heated air causes the humidification rotor 63 to release moisture when passing through the desorption area 63b, and is sucked into the humidification fan 75 as high-humidity air.

(2-2-9-4) First humidification duct The first humidification duct 73 guides air to the desorption area 63b via the humidification heater 71, and further guides the air that has passed through the humidification rotor 63 to the humidification fan 75 ( (See FIG. 1).

  More specifically, the first humidification duct 73 guides the outdoor air to the humidification heater 71 so that the outdoor air passes through the desorption area 63 b of the humidification rotor 63 from the back side to the front side. Further, the first humidifying duct 73 is heated by the humidifying heater 71 to become a high temperature, and guides the air that has passed through the desorption area 63 b of the humidifying rotor 63 from the front side to the back side to the humidifying fan 75. The hot air desorbs moisture when passing through the humidification rotor 63 in the desorption area 63b, and becomes high-temperature and high-humidity air toward the humidification fan 75. The air flow in the first humidification duct 73 is generated by the humidification fan 75.

(2-2-9-5) Humidification fan The humidification fan 75 is disposed in the machine room 42.

  The humidification fan 75 is a blower that blows air taken in through the first humidification duct 73. The humidification fan 75 blows air containing moisture desorbed from the humidification rotor 63 in the desorption area 63b toward the indoor unit 20. Further, the humidifying fan 75 blows air taken in through the first humidifying duct 73 toward the adsorption area 63a and blows it to the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a. The flow destination of air sent from the humidifying fan 75 (that is, whether the air is blown toward the indoor unit 20 or the humidifying rotor 63) is switched by the flow path switching mechanism 140.

  The humidifying fan 75 mainly has an impeller 75a that sends out air in a predetermined direction and a fan motor 75b that drives the impeller 75a (see FIG. 1). The rotation shaft of the fan motor 75b is directly connected to the rotation shaft of the impeller 75a. The humidifying fan 75 is arranged in such a posture that the rotation shaft of the impeller 75a is in the horizontal direction.

  The impeller 75a is surrounded by a fan casing 81 (see FIG. 2). The outlet of the fan casing 81 is connected to the inlet of the second humidifying duct 180 (see FIG. 5). The outside of the fan motor 75b is covered with a motor cover 82 (see FIG. 2).

(2-2-9-6) Second Humidification Duct The second humidification duct 180 is a duct that guides the air blown from the humidification fan 75 to the flow path switching mechanism 140 (see FIG. 1).

(2-2-9-7) Channel Switching Mechanism The channel switching mechanism 140 is disposed on the downstream side in the air blowing direction of the humidifying fan 75. The channel switching mechanism 140 is a mechanism that switches the channel through which the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows. The flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow path of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 between the flow path toward the indoor unit 20 and the flow path toward the adsorption area 63a of the humidification rotor 63. In other words, the flow path switching mechanism 140 is sent from the humidifying fan 75 to the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75, from the first state where the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows to the humidifying target space, and from the humidifying fan 75. Switching between the second state in which air flows to the adsorption area 63a.

  A second humidification duct 180, an air supply hose 18, and a dust removal path 100 are connected to the flow path switching mechanism 140.

  The flow path switching mechanism 140 is, for example, an air flow path switching unit (damper) disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-229054. The air supplied from the humidifying fan 75 is switched so that the air supplied from the air through the second humidifying duct 180 is directed toward the air supply hose 18 or toward the dust removal path 100. .

  Furthermore, the flow path switching mechanism 140 may block the flow path so that the second humidification duct 180 does not communicate with either the air supply hose 18 or the dust removal path 100 when the humidification fan 75 is stopped. It may be configured to be possible.

(2-2-9-8) Dust Removal Path The dust removal path 100 guides the air blown out by the humidifying fan 75 to the suction area 63a, and the air path for blowing air to the humidification rotor 63 in the suction area 63a. It is. This will be described in more detail.

  In the adsorption area 63a, when the outdoor fan 39 is operated and the outdoor air flows through the humidifying rotor 63 from the front side to the rear side, dust may adhere to the humidifying rotor 63 (particularly the front side). In particular, in the humidifier 60, not only during the humidification operation but also during the operation of the outdoor fan 39, outdoor air flows through the humidification rotor 63 from the front side to the rear side in the adsorption area 63a (that is, the ventilation time is long). ), Dust is likely to adhere. The dust removal path 100 is an air path for guiding the air blown out by the humidifying fan 75 to the adsorption area 63a in order to remove the dust (attached matter) attached to the humidifying rotor 63.

  One end of the dust removal path 100 is connected to the flow path switching mechanism 140 (see FIG. 1). The other end of the dust removal path 100 opens near the humidification rotor 63. The opening 100a of the dust removal path 100 provided for blowing air to the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a is provided on the back side of the humidification rotor 63 (see FIG. 6). Therefore, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state, the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 passes through the dust removal path 100 to the adsorption area. 63a, which is supplied downstream from the humidification rotor 63 in the flow direction of the adsorbed air flow (see FIG. 6). As described above, the adsorption air flow is a flow of air flowing through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a during the humidification operation.

  Moreover, the opening 100a of the dust removal path 100 provided for blowing air to the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a faces the back surface of the humidification rotor 63 (see FIG. 6). Therefore, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state, the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 passes through the dust removal path 100 to the adsorption area. In 63a, it flows through the humidification rotor 63 in the direction opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbed air flow (that is, from the back side to the front side) (see FIG. 6).

  Note that the dust removal path 100 may blow air to the back surface of the humidification rotor 63 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the back surface of the humidification rotor 63 (here, a generally horizontal direction). In another aspect, the dust removal path 100 may blow air on the back surface of the humidification rotor 63 in a direction inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to the back surface of the humidification rotor 63.

(2-2-10) Electrical component unit The electrical component unit 50 is a control board in which electronic components are integrated. The electrical component unit 50 is located in the blower chamber 41.

  The electrical component unit 50 includes a CPU and a memory (not shown), and functions as an outdoor control unit 51 that controls the operation of each unit of the outdoor unit 30 (see FIG. 7). The outdoor side control unit 51 also functions as a control unit of the humidifying device 60.

  The outdoor side control part 51 controls the operation | movement of each part of the outdoor unit 30, and the humidifier 60, when CPU runs the program memorize | stored in memory. The outdoor side control part 51 is electrically connected with apparatuses, such as the compressor 31, the four-way switching valve 32, the electric expansion valve 34, the outdoor fan 39, etc. which the outdoor unit 30 has (refer FIG. 7). Further, the outdoor control unit 51 includes a rotor driving motor 64, a humidifying heater 71, a fan motor 75 b, a flow path switching mechanism 140 (a motor for driving an opening / closing member included in the flow path switching mechanism 140 ( (Not shown)) and the like (see FIG. 7). The outdoor control unit 51 includes an outdoor temperature sensor (not shown) that measures the temperature of outdoor air, an outdoor heat exchanger temperature sensor (not shown) attached to the outdoor heat exchanger 33, a discharge pipe, and the like. A discharge temperature sensor (not shown) provided at 92, a humidity sensor (not shown) disposed in the second humidification duct 180, and the like are electrically connected. Furthermore, the outdoor side control part 51 is connected so that communication with the indoor side control part (not shown) of the indoor unit 20 is possible, and controls operation | movement of each part of the air conditioner 10 in cooperation with an indoor side control part. To do.

  Among the functions of the outdoor side control unit 51, a control for removing dust (attachment) attached to the humidification rotor 63 of the humidification device 60 will be described.

  The outdoor side controller 51 operates the humidifying fan 75 before the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 is started, and the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state. The operation of a motor (not shown) for driving the opening / closing member of the fan motor 75b and the flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled.

  Further, the outdoor control unit 51 operates the humidifying fan 75 when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is stopped (after the outdoor fan 39 is stopped), and the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 by the flow path switching mechanism 140. The operation of the motor (not shown) for driving the opening / closing member of the fan motor 75b and the flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled so as to switch to the second state.

(3) Operation of the air conditioner The operation of the air conditioner 10 during the cooling operation and the heating operation will be described below.

(3-1) Cooling Operation During the cooling operation, the outdoor control unit 51 is configured such that the discharge pipe 92 and the first gas refrigerant pipe 93 are connected, and the suction pipe 91 and the second gas refrigerant pipe 95 are connected. The four-way switching valve 32 is controlled (see the solid line in the four-way switching valve 32 in FIG. 1).

  In such a state of the refrigerant circuit 90, when the compressor 31 and the outdoor fan 39 are operated by the outdoor side control unit 51 and the indoor fan 22 is operated by the indoor side control unit (not shown), the following operation is performed. Thus, the indoor space that is the air-conditioning target space is cooled.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sucked into the compressor 31 and compressed to become a high-pressure gas refrigerant. The high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 31 is sent to the outdoor heat exchanger 33 via the four-way switching valve 32, and is condensed by exchanging heat with outdoor air supplied by the outdoor fan 39. It becomes a liquid refrigerant. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant is depressurized by the electric expansion valve 34 and then sent to the indoor unit 20 via the liquid-side closing valve 37 and the liquid refrigerant communication pipe 14. In addition, the outdoor side control part 51 adjusts the opening degree of the electric expansion valve 34 so that the superheat degree of the refrigerant | coolant in the refrigerant | coolant exit of the indoor heat exchanger 21 may become a predetermined target value, for example. The low-pressure refrigerant sent to the indoor unit 20 becomes a refrigerant in a gas-liquid two-phase state, enters the indoor heat exchanger 21, exchanges heat with indoor air in the indoor heat exchanger 21, and evaporates to generate low-pressure gas. Becomes a refrigerant. The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sent to the outdoor unit 30 via the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16, and flows into the accumulator 36 via the gas-side closing valve 38 and the four-way switching valve 32. The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the accumulator 36 is again sucked into the compressor 31.

  Thus, the air conditioner 10 can perform a cooling operation in which the outdoor heat exchanger 33 functions as a condenser (heat radiator) and the indoor heat exchanger 21 functions as an evaporator (heat absorber).

(3-2) Heating Operation During the heating operation, the outdoor control unit 51 is configured such that the discharge pipe 92 and the second gas refrigerant pipe 95 are connected, and the suction pipe 91 and the first gas refrigerant pipe 93 are connected. The four-way switching valve 32 is controlled (see the dotted line in the four-way switching valve 32 in FIG. 1).

  In such a state of the refrigerant circuit 90, when the compressor 31 and the outdoor fan 39 are operated by the outdoor side control unit 51 and the indoor fan 22 is operated by the indoor side control unit (not shown), the following operation is performed. Thus, the indoor space that is the air-conditioning target space is heated.

  The low-pressure gas refrigerant is sucked into the compressor 31 and compressed to become a high-pressure gas refrigerant. The high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 31 is sent to the indoor unit 20 via the four-way switching valve 32, the gas side closing valve 38 and the gas refrigerant communication pipe 16. The high-pressure gas refrigerant sent to the indoor unit 20 is condensed by exchanging heat with indoor air in the indoor heat exchanger 21, and becomes a high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Sent. The liquid refrigerant passes through the liquid side closing valve 37 and enters the electric expansion valve 34. The liquid refrigerant is decompressed by the electric expansion valve 34 and then flows into the outdoor heat exchanger 33. In addition, the outdoor side control part 51 adjusts the opening degree of the electric expansion valve 34, for example so that the refrigerant | coolant which flows in into the outdoor heat exchanger 33 may be pressure-reduced to the pressure which can be evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 33. . The low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the outdoor heat exchanger 33 exchanges heat with the outdoor air supplied by the outdoor fan 39 to evaporate into a low-pressure gas refrigerant, and passes through the four-way switching valve 32. And flows into the accumulator 36. The low-pressure gas refrigerant that has flowed into the accumulator 36 is again sucked into the compressor 31.

  Thus, the air conditioner 10 can perform a heating operation in which the outdoor heat exchanger 33 functions as an evaporator (heat absorber) and the indoor heat exchanger 21 functions as a condenser (heat radiator).

(4) Operation of Humidifier The operation during the humidifying operation of the humidifier 60 and the process for removing dust (adhered matter) attached to the humidification rotor 63 (dust removal process) will be described below. In addition, since dust removal treatment is also related to the operation of the air conditioner 10, a part of the operation of the air conditioner 10 will be mentioned in the description of the dust removal processing.

(4-1) Humidification Operation Here, the humidification operation is performed simultaneously with the heating operation of the air conditioner 10.

  As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 5, the air inlet 681 (see FIG. 5) of the suction duct 68 opens toward the suction opening 46 b (see FIG. 3) of the front plate 46, and the suction duct 68. The air outlet 683 (see FIG. 2) is adjacent to the upstream end of the bell mouth 52, which is under negative pressure when the outdoor fan 39 rotates. When the outdoor fan 39 is operated during the heating operation of the air conditioner 10, the pressure on the air outlet 683 side becomes lower than the pressure on the air inlet 681 side, and the outdoor air is sucked in from the air inlet 681 by the action, and the air It flows to the outlet 683.

  During the humidifying operation, the outdoor control unit 51 continuously rotates the humidifying rotor 63 at a predetermined first speed by, for example, the rotor driving motor 64. The operation of the humidification rotor 63 during the humidification operation is an example, and is not limited to such an operation. In the adsorption area 63 a, the humidification rotor 63 that has adsorbed moisture of outdoor air flowing from the air inlet 681 is carried to the desorption area 63 b as the humidification rotor 63 rotates, and opposes the humidification heater 71 that heats the humidification rotor 63. Move to the position you want.

  Further, during the humidification operation, the outdoor side control unit 51 drives the humidification fan 75. When the humidifying fan 75 is driven, outdoor air passes through the first humidifying duct 73 and is sent to the surroundings of the humidifying heater 71 to be heated. The air heated by the humidifying heater 71 flows toward the humidifying fan 75 through the desorption area 63 b of the humidifying rotor 63. At this time, moisture is released (desorbed) from the portion of the humidifying rotor 63 exposed to the heated air.

  During the humidification operation, the outdoor control unit 51 communicates with the second humidification duct 180 and the air supply hose 18, and the air blown from the humidification fan 75 passes through the second humidification duct 180 and supplies the air supply hose. 18, that is, the flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled so that the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 is switched to the first state (the opening / closing member included in the flow path switching mechanism 140 is operated). Controls the operation of a motor (not shown)). Therefore, the air containing a relatively large amount of water sent out from the humidifying fan 75 is blown out to the air supply hose 18 through the second humidifying duct 180 and is guided to the indoor unit 20.

(4-2) Dust Removal Process A process for removing dust (attachment) attached to the humidification rotor 63 performed in the humidification device 60 will be described below. Here, it is divided into a case where the air conditioner 10 is operated in a state where the humidifying device 60 is not performing a humidifying operation, and a case where the air conditioner 10 is operated in a state where the humidifying device 60 is performing a humidifying operation, The dust removal process of the humidifier 60 will be described.

(A) When the air conditioner is operated in a state where the humidifying device does not perform the humidifying operation About the dust removal processing of the humidifying device 60 in the case where the air conditioner 10 is operated in the state where the humidifying device 60 is not performing the humidifying operation. This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In particular, the processes in steps S3 to S8 described below are the dust removal process (dust removal process after the air conditioner operation is stopped) of the humidification rotor 63 performed after the air conditioner 10 is stopped.

  First, in step S1, the outdoor side control unit 51 and the indoor side control unit of the indoor unit 20 cooperate to operate the air conditioner 10 (cooling operation) in response to a user command or the like of the air conditioner 10 from a remote controller (not shown). Or heating operation).

  Next, in step S2, the outdoor side control unit 51 and the indoor side control unit of the indoor unit 20 cooperate to operate the air conditioner 10 in accordance with a user command or the like of the air conditioner 10 via a remote controller (not shown). Stop. As a result, the operation of the outdoor fan 39 is stopped, and the supply of air to the humidification rotor 63 by the outdoor fan 39 in the adsorption area 63a is stopped.

  Next, in step S3, the outdoor control unit 51 determines that the flow path switching mechanism 140 is in a flow state of air blown from the humidifying fan 75 (the humidifying fan when the humidifying fan 75 is operated in step S4 described later). The flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled so as to switch the flow state of the air blown from 75) to the second state in which the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows to the adsorption area 63a. Specifically, the outdoor-side control unit 51 drives the motor that drives the opening / closing member of the flow path switching mechanism 140 so that the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state. (Not shown). Here, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state, the flow path switching mechanism 140 has already changed the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75. This includes the case of maintaining this state when switching to the second state.

  Next, in Step S <b> 4, the outdoor control unit 51 starts the operation of the humidifying fan 75. Specifically, the outdoor side controller 51 starts operation of the fan motor 75b.

  By performing Step S3 and Step S4, air is blown to the humidification rotor 63 from the opening 100a of the dust removal path 100 in the suction area 63a. After execution of step S3 and step S4, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S <b> 5, the outdoor control unit 51 rotates the humidification rotor 63. Specifically, the outdoor side control unit 51 drives the rotor driving motor 64 to rotate the humidification rotor 63. That is, here, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidification fan 75 to the second state, the humidification rotor 63 circulates around the adsorption area 63a and the desorption area 63b.

  Note that the operation of the humidification rotor 63 in step S5 may not be the same as the operation of the humidification rotor 63 during the humidification operation. For example, during the humidification operation, the humidification rotor 63 continuously rotates at the first speed. On the other hand, in step S5, the humidification rotor 63 may continuously rotate at a second speed that is slower than the first speed. Moreover, in step S5, the humidification rotor 63 may rotate intermittently. How to rotate the humidification rotor 63 in step S5 may be determined as appropriate so that dust adhering to the entire humidification rotor 63 can be removed by the air blown out by the dust removal path 100.

  Next, in step S6, it is determined whether the humidification rotor 63 has rotated a predetermined angle after the rotation of the humidification rotor 63 is started in step S5. The predetermined angle is, for example, 360 degrees. However, the predetermined angle is not limited to 360 degrees, and may be larger than 360 degrees or smaller than 360 degrees. For example, the predetermined angle may be about 240 degrees (the same angle as the central angle of the fan-shaped suction area 63a). The determination process in step S6 is repeated until it is determined that the humidification rotor 63 has rotated a predetermined angle after starting the rotation in step S5.

  Here, the determination is performed using the rotation angle of the humidification rotor 63, but instead of the rotation angle, the determination is based on whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the humidification rotor 63 started rotating. May be performed.

  In step S <b> 7, the outdoor control unit 51 stops the rotation of the humidification rotor 63. Specifically, the outdoor control unit 51 stops the rotor driving motor 64 and stops the rotation of the humidification rotor 63.

  Next, in Step S <b> 8, the outdoor side control unit 51 stops the operation of the humidifying fan 75. Specifically, the outdoor side controller 51 stops the operation of the fan motor 75b.

  Note that the order of step S7 and step S8 may be reversed, and step S7 and step S8 may be executed simultaneously.

(B) When the air conditioner is operated in a state where the humidifier is performing the humidifying operation The dust removing process of the humidifier 60 when the air conditioner 10 is operated in the state where the humidifier 60 is performing the humidifying operation Will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In particular, the processes in steps S11 to S16 described below are a dust removal process (a dust removal process before the start of the humidification operation) of the humidification rotor 63 performed before the start of the humidification operation. Steps S21 to S25 described below are dust removal processing of the humidification rotor 63 (dust removal processing after stopping the air conditioner operation) performed after the air conditioner 10 is stopped.

  When the user of the air conditioner 10 requests the humidification operation of the humidifier 60 and the operation of the air conditioner 10 (here, the heating operation) simultaneously via a remote controller (not shown), before the humidification operation of the humidifier 60 ( Before the start of the operation of the air conditioner 10, the dust removal process before the start of the humidification operation in steps S11 to S16 is executed.

  First, in step S11, the outdoor control unit 51 causes the flow path switching mechanism 140 to be in a flow state of air blown from the humidifying fan 75 (the humidifying fan 75 when the humidifying fan 75 is operated in step S12 described later). The flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled so that the air flow from the humidification fan 75 is switched to the second state in which the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows to the adsorption area 63a. Specifically, the outdoor-side control unit 51 drives the motor that drives the opening / closing member of the flow path switching mechanism 140 so that the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state. (Not shown). Here, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state, the flow path switching mechanism 140 has already changed the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75. This includes the case of maintaining this state when switching to the second state.

  Next, in step S <b> 12, the outdoor control unit 51 starts the operation of the humidifying fan 75. Specifically, the outdoor side controller 51 starts operation of the fan motor 75b.

  By performing Step S11 and Step S12, air is blown to the humidification rotor 63 from the opening 100a of the dust removal path 100 in the suction area 63a. After execution of step S11 and step S12, the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S <b> 13, the outdoor control unit 51 rotates the humidification rotor 63. Specifically, the outdoor side control unit 51 drives the rotor driving motor 64 to rotate the humidification rotor 63. That is, here, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidification fan 75 to the second state, the humidification rotor 63 circulates around the adsorption area 63a and the desorption area 63b. Since the rotation operation of the humidification rotor 63 in step S13 is the same as the rotation operation of the humidification rotor 63 in step S5 described above, description thereof is omitted here.

  Next, in step S14, it is determined whether the humidification rotor 63 has rotated a predetermined angle after the rotation of the humidification rotor 63 is started in step S13. Since the process of step S14 is the same as the process of step S6, description is abbreviate | omitted here.

  Next, in Step S <b> 15, the outdoor side controller 51 stops the rotation of the humidification rotor 63. Specifically, the outdoor control unit 51 stops the rotor driving motor 64 and stops the rotation of the humidification rotor 63.

  Next, in step S <b> 16, the outdoor control unit 51 stops the operation of the humidifying fan 75. Specifically, the outdoor side controller 51 stops the operation of the fan motor 75b.

  Note that the order of these steps S15 and S16 may be reversed, and steps S15 and S16 may be executed simultaneously.

  Thus, the dust removal process before the start of the humidifying operation is completed.

  Next, in step S17, the outdoor side control unit 51 and the indoor side control unit of the indoor unit 20 cooperate to start operation of the air conditioner 10 (here, heating operation).

  Next, in step S18, the outdoor side control unit 51 determines that the flow path switching mechanism 140 is in a flow state of air blown from the humidifying fan 75 (the humidifying fan when the humidifying fan 75 is operated in step S19 described later). The flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled so as to switch the flow state of the air blown from 75 to the first state in which the air blown from the humidification fan 75 flows to the humidification target space. Specifically, the outdoor-side control unit 51 drives the motor that drives the opening / closing member of the flow path switching mechanism 140 so that the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the first state. (Not shown).

  Next, in step S19, the outdoor side control part 51 controls operation | movement of each structure of the humidification apparatus 60 so that the humidification apparatus 60 may start a humidification driving | operation. Specifically, the outdoor side control part 51 starts the fan motor 75b, and starts the driving | operation of the humidification fan 75. FIG. Moreover, the outdoor side control part 51 turns ON the humidification heater 71. FIG. Moreover, the outdoor side control part 51 drives the motor 64 for a rotor drive, and rotates the humidification rotor 63 at 1st speed.

  Next, in step S20, the outdoor side control unit 51 and the indoor side control unit of the indoor unit 20 cooperate to operate the air conditioner 10 in accordance with a user command or the like of the air conditioner 10 via a remote controller (not shown). Stop. As a result, the operation of the outdoor fan 39 is stopped, and the supply of air to the humidification rotor 63 by the outdoor fan 39 in the adsorption area 63a is stopped.

  Next, in Step S <b> 21, the outdoor side control unit 51 turns off the humidifying heater 71.

  Next, in Step S22, the outdoor control unit 51 determines that the flow path switching mechanism 140 is in a flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75, and the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows to the adsorption area 63a. The flow path switching mechanism 140 is controlled to switch between the two states. Specifically, the outdoor-side control unit 51 drives the motor that drives the opening / closing member of the flow path switching mechanism 140 so that the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state. (Not shown).

  The subsequent processing of step S23 to step S25 is the same as the processing of step S6 to step S8 already described, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  Thus, the dust removal process is terminated after the air conditioner operation is stopped.

  In the case where the operation of the air conditioner 10 is started in a state where the humidifying device 60 is not performing the humidifying operation, and then the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 is started during the operation of the air conditioner 10, the flowchart of FIG. The processing after step S18 may be executed. Conversely, when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is started while the humidifying device 60 is performing the humidifying operation, and only the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 is subsequently stopped, when the air conditioner 10 is stopped, It suffices if the processes of steps S3 to S8 in the flowchart are executed.

(5) Features (5-1)
The humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment includes a humidifying heater 71 as an example of a heater, a humidifying rotor 63 as an example of a rotor, a humidifying fan 75 as an example of a fan, and a flow path switching mechanism 140. The humidification rotor 63 goes around the adsorption area 63a and the desorption area 63b. The humidification rotor 63 adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area 63a, and desorbs the moisture by the heat of the humidification heater 71 in the desorption area 63b. The humidification fan 75 blows air containing moisture desorbed from the humidification rotor 63 in the desorption area 63b. The flow path switching mechanism 140 is arranged on the downstream side in the blowing direction of the humidifying fan 75 and switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 between at least the first state and the second state. In the first state, the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows into the humidifying target space. In the second state, air blown from the humidifying fan 75 flows to the adsorption area 63a.

  In the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, the air flow generated by the humidifying fan 75 used to send moisture-containing air to the humidifying target space can be sent to the adsorption area 63 a of the humidifying rotor 63. Therefore, dirt (attachment) such as dust adhering to the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a can be removed by using the airflow of the humidification humidifier fan 75, and the efficiency reduction of the humidifier 60 can be suppressed. is there.

(5-2)
In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, when the humidification rotor 63 adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area 63a during the humidification operation, the adsorbed air flow flows through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a. In the second state of the flow state of the air blown from the humidification fan 75, the air blown from the humidification fan 75 is supplied downstream from the humidification rotor 63 in the flow direction of the adsorption air flow.

  In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, in the adsorption area 63a, it is possible to generate an air flow in a direction opposite to the adsorption air flow (the flow of air flowing through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a during the humidification operation). Therefore, it is easy to remove dirt such as dust attached to the humidification rotor 63 during the humidification operation from the humidification rotor 63.

(5-3)
In the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, air flows through the humidifying rotor 63 in the same direction as the adsorbed air flow in the adsorption area 63a during a predetermined period other than during the humidifying operation. Specifically, in the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, when the outdoor fan 39 of the air conditioner 10 is in operation, the humidifying rotor 63 is moved in the same direction as the adsorbed air flow in the adsorption area 63a even during the humidifying operation. Air flows through.

  In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, in the adsorption area 63a, air flows through the humidifying rotor 63 in the same direction as during the humidifying operation other than during the humidifying operation, so that dirt such as dust adheres to the humidifying rotor 63. Cheap. However, here, dirt such as dust adhering to the humidification rotor 63 can be removed using the airflow of the humidification humidifier fan 75, so that a reduction in efficiency of the humidifier 60 can be suppressed.

(5-4)
In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, the humidifying fan 75 is operated before the start of the humidifying operation, and the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state.

  Here, when the flow switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidification fan 75 to the second state before the start of the humidification operation, the flow state of the air blown from the humidification fan 75 is already set. This includes the case of maintaining this state when switched to the second state.

  In the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, dirt such as dust attached to the humidifying rotor 63 can be removed using the airflow of the humidifying humidifier fan 75 before the start of the humidifying operation. Therefore, it is easy to operate the humidifier 60 efficiently.

(5-5)
The humidifier 60 of the above embodiment is mounted on the outdoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10. The outdoor unit 30 includes an outdoor fan 39 and an outdoor heat exchanger 33. When the outdoor fan 39 is operated, air flows through the humidification rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a regardless of whether the humidification operation is being performed. After the outdoor fan 39 is stopped, the humidifying fan 75 is operated, and the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state.

  Here, the operation of the humidifying fan 75 after the outdoor fan 39 is stopped includes a case where this state is maintained when the humidifying fan 75 is already operated. Here, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state after the outdoor fan 39 is stopped, the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 has already been changed. This includes the case of maintaining this state when switched to the second state.

  In the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, after a situation where dirt such as dust may adhere to the humidifying rotor 63 in the adsorption area 63a occurs, the humidifying fan 63 adheres to the humidifying rotor 63 using the air flow of the humidifying humidifier fan 75. Dirt such as dust can be removed. Therefore, it is easy to operate the humidifier 60 efficiently.

(5-6)
In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state, the humidifying rotor 63 goes around the adsorption area 63a and the desorption area 63b.

  In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, since air flows from the humidifying fan 75 to the suction area 63a while the humidifying rotor 63 is rotating, dirt such as dust adhering to the humidifying rotor 63 is removed without leaving behind. Is easy.

(6) Modification A modification of the above embodiment is shown below. Note that the modified examples may be combined as appropriate within a range that does not contradict each other.

(6-1) Modification A
In the above embodiment, the humidifier 60 is mounted on the outdoor unit 30 of the air conditioner 10 and operates as if it is a part of the air conditioner 10.

  However, the aspect of use of the humidifier is not limited to the aspect of the above embodiment, and the humidifier may be an apparatus independent of the air conditioner. For example, the humidifier may include a dedicated control unit that controls the operation of each component of the humidifier. In addition, the humidifier may be a device installed alone (not mounted on an outdoor unit of the air conditioner). When the humidifier is an independent device from the air conditioner and air is not supplied to the humidifier rotor by the outdoor fan of the air conditioner, the humidifier supplies air to the humidifier rotor in the adsorption area. It is preferable to have a fan.

  In addition, when a humidifier is an apparatus independent of an air conditioner, after the process of step S11-step S14 in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is performed as a dust removal process before a humidification operation start, a humidification operation is started. It is preferable that it is comprised. Moreover, it is preferable that the process of step S21-step S25 in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is performed as a dust removal process after a humidification operation stop at the time of a humidification operation stop.

(6-2) Modification B
In the above embodiment, the opening 100 a of the dust removal path 100 through which the air from the humidifying fan 75 blows out is provided on the back side of the humidifying rotor 63.

  However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and the opening of the dust removal path through which the air from the humidifying fan 75 blows may be provided on the front side of the humidifying rotor 63. In other words, when the flow path switching mechanism 140 switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 to the second state, the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 passes through the dust removal path, and the suction area. 63a, which may be supplied upstream of the humidification rotor 63 in the flow direction of the adsorption air flow. In this case, the air blown from the humidifying fan 75 toward the humidifying rotor 63 is inclined to the front surface of the humidifying rotor 63 from the direction perpendicular to the front surface of the humidifying rotor 63 (for example, the front surface of the humidifying rotor 63). It is preferable that the spraying is performed from a direction close to parallel to. Even when configured in this way, dust attached to the front surface of the humidification rotor 63 can be removed by the air blown out from the dust removal path 100 so as to be peeled off from the front surface of the humidification rotor 63. .

(6-3) Modification C
In the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, the humidifying rotor 63 is configured such that the air passage surface is a vertical surface and rotates around a horizontal rotation axis. However, the structure of the humidifier 60 is not limited to the structure of the said embodiment. For example, the humidification rotor may be configured so that the air passage surface is a horizontal plane and rotates around a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. Further, for example, the humidification rotor may be configured to rotate around a rotation axis extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction, with an air passage surface inclined with respect to a vertical plane or a horizontal plane. .

(6-4) Modification D
In the humidifying device 60 of the above-described embodiment, when the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 and the operation of the air conditioner 10 are performed simultaneously, the humidifying rotor 63 is operated before the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 (before the air conditioner 10 starts operation). The dust removal process before starting the humidifying operation (the process of steps S11 to S16 described with reference to FIG. 9) is executed.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the dust removal process before the start of the humidifying operation may be omitted. Also in this case, when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is stopped, dust removal processing when the air conditioner is stopped (steps S3 to S8 described with reference to FIG. 8 and steps S21 to S25 described with reference to FIG. 9). Therefore, the adhesion of dust to the humidification rotor 63 can be suppressed.

  Conversely, the dust removal processing when the air conditioner is stopped (steps S3 to S8 described with reference to FIG. 8 and steps S21 to S25 described with reference to FIG. 9) is omitted and humidified. Only the dust removal process before the start of operation (the processes of steps S11 to S16 described with reference to FIG. 9) may be executed.

(6-5) Modification E
In the humidifier 60 of the above embodiment, the dust removal process (the dust removal process when the air conditioner is stopped) is executed when the operation of the air conditioner 10 is stopped, but the timing of the dust removal process is not limited to this. For example, in the humidifier 60, the dust removal process may be executed when the outdoor fan 39 is stopped regardless of whether the operation of the air conditioner 10 is stopped.

(6-6) Modification F
In the humidifying device 60 of the above embodiment, the air heated by the humidifying heater 71 passes through the humidifying rotor 63 in the desorption area 63b and then sucked into the humidifying fan 75. The structure of the humidifying device 60 is such a structure. It is not limited to.

  For example, in a humidifier of another form, a structure in which air blown out by a humidification fan is heated by a humidification heater and passes through a humidification rotor may be employed. When such a structure is employed, the flow path switching mechanism that switches the flow state of the air blown from the humidification fan may be disposed between the humidification fan and the humidification heater in the air flow direction.

(6-7) Modification G
In the above-described embodiment, the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 is performed simultaneously with the heating operation of the air conditioner 10, but is not limited thereto. The humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 may be performed independently of the heating operation of the air conditioner 10. For example, the outdoor fan 39 may be operated in a state where the compressor 31 is not operated in the air conditioner 10, and the humidifying operation of the humidifier 60 may be executed.

  When the humidifying operation is performed alone, the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 60 is performed after the processing of step S11 to step S14 in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is performed as the dust removal processing before starting the humidifying operation. It is preferable.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be widely applied to a humidifier equipped with a rotor that circulates in an adsorption area and a desorption area, adsorbs moisture from air in the adsorption area, and desorbs moisture in the desorption area.

10 air conditioner 30 outdoor unit 33 outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger)
39 Outdoor fan 60 Humidifying device 63 Humidification rotor (rotor)
63a Adsorption area 63b Desorption area 71 Humidification heater (heater)
75 Humidification fan (fan)
140 Channel switching mechanism

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-11831

Claims (6)

A heater (71);
A rotor (63) that orbits the adsorption area (63a) and the desorption area (63b), adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area, and desorbs moisture by the heat of the heater in the desorption area;
A fan (75) for blowing air containing moisture desorbed from the rotor in the desorption area;
Arranged on the downstream side in the blowing direction of the fan, the flow state of the air blown from the fan is at least a first state in which the air blown from the fan flows into the humidification target space, and blown from the fan. A flow path switching mechanism (140) for switching between the second state in which the air flowing into the adsorption area flows,
A humidifier (60) comprising: When the rotor adsorbs moisture from the air in the adsorption area during the humidification operation, the adsorption air flow flows through the rotor in the adsorption area,
In the second state, air blown from the fan is supplied downstream from the rotor in the flow direction of the adsorption air flow.
The humidifier according to claim 1. In a predetermined period other than during humidification operation, air flows through the rotor in the same direction as the adsorption air flow in the adsorption area.
The humidifier according to claim 2. Before the start of humidification operation, the fan is operated, and the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of air blown from the fan to the second state.
The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The humidifier is mounted on an outdoor unit (30) having an outdoor fan (39) and a heat exchanger (33) of the air conditioner (10). When the outdoor fan is operated, whether the humidifying operation is being performed or not. Regardless, in the adsorption area, air flows through the rotor,
After the outdoor fan stops, the fan is operated, and the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of air blown from the fan to the second state.
The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 4. When the flow path switching mechanism switches the flow state of air blown from the fan to the second state, the rotor circulates around the adsorption area and the desorption area.
The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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