JP2024044236A - Dehumidifying/humidifying device with sterilization functions - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a dehumidifying/humidifying device with sterilization functions capable of releasing a hypochlorous acid while keeping comfortability throughout the year.

SOLUTION: A dehumidifying/humidifying device 2 with sterilization functions includes: a refrigeration cycle 7 including a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c switching circulation of a refrigerant, an evaporator 7d; a first heat exchanger 7e performing one of heating and cooling, and a second heat exchanger 7f performing the other of heating and cooling; and a humidification/sterilization part 8 adding humidification/sterilization components to air circulating inside. The dehumidifying/humidifying device includes: a dehumidification mode where a refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is made a first circulation state by the four-way valve 7c, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator performing cooling and also the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser performing heating; and a humidification mode where the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is made a second circulation state different from the first circulation state by the four-way valve 7c, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as an evaporator and also the first heat exchanger 7e functions as the condenser.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

COPYRIGHT: (C)2024,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a dehumidifier with a sterilization function that dehumidifies and sterilizes a target space, typically an indoor space.

Conventionally, air conditioning systems that supply sterilized clean air disinfect the air by bringing the air supplied indoors into contact with a gas-liquid contact area containing hypochlorous acid and releasing it. is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-133521 A

In conventional air conditioning systems, hypochlorous acid is released using a humidifier or two-fluid nozzle, which releases hypochlorous acid along with moisture. Although it is possible to humidify the target space into which the hypochlorous acid is released, this increases the humidity in the target space, especially in the summer when the relative humidity is high, which can lead to a decrease in comfort.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a dehumidification/humidification device with a sterilization function that can release hypochlorous acid while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

In order to achieve this objective, the dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to the present invention includes a suction port that takes in external air, a compressor, an expander, a four-way valve that switches the flow state of refrigerant, and an evaporator. A refrigeration cycle comprising: a first heat exchanger that performs either heating or cooling; and a second heat exchanger that performs the other heating or cooling; and a refrigeration cycle that humidifies and sterilizes the air circulating inside. It has a humidifying and sterilizing section that adds components, a first heat exchange air path, and a second heat exchange air path that is independent of the first heat exchange air path, and the air flowing through the first heat exchange air path and the second heat exchange air path are a heat exchange part that exchanges heat with the air flowing through the two heat exchange air passages; a first air passage through which a first portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows in the order of the evaporator and the first heat exchange air passage; The second part of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the second heat exchange air path, and the third part of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the first heat exchanger and the humidification/sterilization section. It is provided with a third air passage that circulates in order, and an outlet that blows out the air that has passed through the first air passage, the second air passage, and the third air passage to the outside. A dehumidification mode in which the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle is set to the first flow state by a four-way valve, the first heat exchanger functions as an evaporator for cooling, and the second heat exchanger functions as a condenser for heating. , the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is set to a second flow state different from the first flow state by a four-way valve, and the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, and the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser. mode.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a dehumidification/humidification device with a sterilization function that can release hypochlorous acid while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of installation of a dehumidifying/humidifying device with sterilizing function according to embodiment 1 of the present invention in a living space. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidification/humidification device with sterilization function according to embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying/humidifying device with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in a dehumidifying mode. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the humidifying/dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in a humidifying mode.

The dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to the present invention includes a suction port that takes in external air, a compressor, an expander, a four-way valve that switches the refrigerant flow state, an evaporator, and one that controls heating or cooling. A refrigeration cycle that includes a first heat exchanger that performs heating or cooling, and a second heat exchanger that performs heating or cooling, and humidification and sterilization that humidifies and adds a sterilization component to the air circulating inside. and a first heat exchange air passage and a second heat exchange air passage independent of the first heat exchange air passage, the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage. a first air passage through which a first part of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the evaporator and then the first heat exchange air passage; and a first part of the air taken in from the suction port. A second air path in which two parts flow through the second heat exchange air path, and a third air path in which a third part of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the first heat exchanger and the humidifying and sterilizing section in that order. , an outlet for blowing out the air flowing through the first air path, the second air path, and the third air path to the outside. A dehumidification mode in which the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle is set to the first flow state by a four-way valve, the first heat exchanger functions as an evaporator for cooling, and the second heat exchanger functions as a condenser for heating. , the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is set to a second flow state different from the first flow state by a four-way valve, and the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, and the first heat exchanger functions as a condenser. mode.

According to this configuration, in the dehumidification mode, the first portion of the external air taken in from the suction port flows through the first air path. In the process, a first portion of the air passes through a cooled evaporator to a lower temperature and is condensed, or dehumidified. Then, the low-temperature air flows through the first heat exchange air passage, and is then blown out from the air outlet. Further, a second portion of external air taken in from the suction port flows through the second air path. In the process, the second portion of the air flows through the second heat exchange air path, exchanges heat with the low temperature air flowing through the first heat exchange air path, becomes lower temperature, and is dehumidified, that is, dehumidified. The second portion of the dehumidified air is then blown out from the outlet. Further, a third portion of external air taken in from the suction port flows through the third air path. In the process, the third portion of air passes through the cooled first heat exchanger and becomes cooler. Then, the low-temperature air flows through the humidifying and sterilizing section, where it is humidified and added with a sterilizing component, and then blown out from the air outlet. As a result, while dehumidifying the air circulating inside the device, it is possible to introduce low-temperature air in which moisture is difficult to evaporate into the humidifying and sterilizing section, so that the amount of humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing section can be suppressed.

On the other hand, in the humidification mode, a first portion of external air taken in from the suction port flows through the first air path. In the process, the first part of the air passes through a cooled evaporator and becomes cold. Then, the low-temperature air flows through the first heat exchange air passage, and is then blown out from the air outlet. Further, a second portion of external air taken in from the suction port flows through the second air path. In the process, the second portion of air flows through the second heat exchange air path and is blown out from the outlet. Moreover, the third portion of the air taken in from the suction port passes through the heated first heat exchanger and becomes high temperature. Then, the high-temperature air flows through the humidifying and sterilizing section, where it is humidified and added with a sterilizing component, and then blown out from the air outlet. As a result, it is possible to introduce high-temperature air in which moisture is easily vaporized into the humidification and sterilization section, so that the amount of humidification in the humidification and sterilization section can be increased.

In other words, a dehumidifier with sterilization function can switch between dehumidification mode and humidification mode to dehumidify while releasing sterilizing components during periods of high humidity (e.g., the Japanese summer), and humidify while releasing sterilizing components during periods of low humidity (e.g., the Japanese winter). In other words, a dehumidifier with sterilization function is a device that can release sterilizing components while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

Further, in the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to the present invention, in the first air passage, the first part flows through the evaporator, the first heat exchange air passage, and the second heat exchanger in this order, and the second air passage The second portion flows through the second heat exchange air path and the second heat exchanger in this order. As a result, in the dehumidification mode, the air that has been cooled by flowing through the evaporator or the second heat exchange air path and has become low temperature flows through the second heat exchanger, promoting heat dissipation from the second heat exchanger. be done. As a result, the temperature of the evaporator becomes lower, and dehumidification in the evaporator can be promoted. Furthermore, since the temperature of the first heat exchanger becomes lower and the air flowing through the humidification and sterilization section becomes lower temperature, humidification by the humidification and sterilization section is further suppressed. In other words, the dehumidification effect in the dehumidification mode can be enhanced.

Furthermore, in the dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to the present invention, the mixing unit mixes the air that has passed through the first air passage, the air that has passed through the second air passage, and the air that has passed through the third air passage. The air mixed in the mixing section is blown out from the outlet. Thereby, variations in the temperature, humidity, and sterilizing components of the air blown out from the outlet can be reduced, and comfort can be further improved.

Further, the dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to the present invention further includes a bypass air path through which the fourth portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the second heat exchanger, and the air outlet includes a bypass air path. Blow out the circulated air to the outside. By doing so, the amount of air flowing through the second heat exchanger increases, heat radiation from the second heat exchanger is promoted in the dehumidification mode, and heat absorption by the second heat exchanger is promoted in the humidification mode. As a result, in the dehumidification mode, the evaporator becomes cooler and dehumidification in the evaporator is facilitated. Furthermore, since the temperature of the first heat exchanger becomes lower and the air flowing through the humidification and sterilization section becomes lower temperature, humidification by the humidification and sterilization section is further suppressed. Furthermore, in the humidification mode, the temperature of the first heat exchanger becomes higher and the air flowing through the humidification and sterilization section becomes higher temperature, so that humidification by the humidification and sterilization section is further promoted. In other words, the dehumidification effect can be enhanced in the dehumidification mode, and the humidification effect can be enhanced in the humidification mode.

The dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function according to the present invention is provided with a mixing section that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air duct, the air that has flowed through the second air duct, the air that has flowed through the third air duct, and the air that has flowed through the bypass air duct, and the air mixed in the mixing section is blown out from the air outlet. This reduces the variation in temperature, humidity, and sterilizing components of the air blown out from the air outlet, further improving comfort.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiment is an example of the present invention, and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. Also, each figure described in the embodiment is a schematic diagram, and the ratio of the size and thickness of each component in each figure does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio.

(Embodiment 1)
First, an overview of a dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of installation of a dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention in a living space 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function is installed on the reverse side of the ceiling 1a of the living space 1. The dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function takes in the intake air 3 of the living space 1, adds sterilizing components to the intake air 3 while dehumidifying or humidifying it, and releases it into the living space 1 as blown air 4 to which the sterilizing components have been added. In other words, the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function can be said to be a device that dehumidifies or humidifies the living space 1, and supplies the sterilizing components to the living space 1 to sterilize it. Although not specifically shown, the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function is connected to an external power source, as well as to a water supply facility and a drainage facility.

As will be described in detail later, the blown air 4 is air that has been sterilized while being dehumidified or humidified in the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier/humidifier 2. In addition, because the blown air 4 contains a sterilizing component, it can also be said to be air that sterilizes the walls of the living space 1, etc.

Next, the specific configuration of the dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2 according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function includes an inlet 5, an outlet 6, a refrigeration cycle 7, a humidifying and sterilizing section 8, a heat exchange section 9, a first air path 10, and a second air path 11. , a third air path 12, a bypass air path 13, a mixing section 14, a first blower 15, and a second blower 16. The refrigeration cycle 7 includes a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c, an evaporator 7d, a first heat exchanger 7e, a second heat exchanger 7f, and a refrigerant pipe 7g. The heat exchange section 9 includes a first heat exchange air passage 9a and a second heat exchange air passage 9b.

The suction port 5 is an intake port for taking in the intake air 3 of the living space 1 into the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function, and is arranged on the top surface 1a of the living space 1.

The air outlet 6 is an air outlet for supplying the air (intake air 3) taken in by the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier/humidifier 2 to the living space 1 as blown air 4, and is located on the top surface 1a of the living space 1.

The first air passage 10 is one of the air passages that communicate between the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14 (air outlet 6). The first air passage 10 is an air passage through which a part of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (first airflow 3a described later) flows through the evaporator 7d of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the heat exchange section 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 in this order, and is arranged to connect the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14. In other words, in the first air passage 10, from the upstream side, the evaporator 7d of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the heat exchange section 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 (air outlet 6) are arranged in this order.

The second air passage 11 is one of the air passages that communicate between the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14 (air outlet 6). The second air passage 11 is an air passage through which a portion of the air taken in from the intake port 5 (second airflow 3b described later) flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange section 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 in this order, and is arranged to communicate and connect the intake port 5 and the mixing section 14. In other words, in the second air passage 11, from the upstream side, the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange section 9, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 (air outlet 6) are arranged in this order.

The third air passage 12 is one of the air passages that communicate between the suction port 5 and the mixing section 14 (the blowout port 6). In the third air path 12, a part of the air taken in from the suction port 5 (a third air flow 3c described later) is transferred to the first heat exchanger 7e of the refrigeration cycle 7, the second blower 16, the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, and the mixing This is an air passage that flows in the order of the section 14 and is arranged so as to connect the suction port 5 and the mixing section 14 in communication. In other words, in the third air passage 12, the first heat exchanger 7e of the refrigeration cycle 7, the second blower 16, the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, and the mixing section 14 (air outlet 6) are arranged in this order.

The bypass air passage 13 is one of the air passages that communicate between the suction port 5 and the mixing section 14 (the blowout port 6). The bypass air passage 13 is an air passage through which the suction port 5, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 flow in this order, and connects the suction port 5 and the mixing section 14 in this order. It is arranged like this. In other words, in the bypass air passage 13, the second heat exchanger 7f of the refrigeration cycle 7, the first blower 15, and the mixing section 14 (air outlet 6) are arranged in this order.

The first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 can also be considered as branch air passages leading from the intake port 5 to the exhaust port 6.

The mixing section 14 is a space that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, the third air duct 12, and the bypass air duct 13 and allows it to flow to the air outlet 6, and is arranged to communicate and connect the connections of the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, the third air duct 12, and the bypass air duct 13 with the mixing section 14 and the air outlet 6.

In the refrigeration cycle 7, a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c, an evaporator 7d, a first heat exchanger 7e, and a second heat exchanger 7f are connected by a refrigerant pipe 7g to form a refrigerant flow path. It is a member. In a refrigeration cycle, a copper pipe is often used as the refrigerant pipe 7g, and the pipes are connected by welding. Further, in the refrigeration cycle, for example, an alternative fluorocarbon (HFC134a) is used as a refrigerant.

The compressor 7a is a device that compresses the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas (working medium gas) in the refrigeration cycle, and increases the pressure to heat it up. In this embodiment, the compressor 7a heats up the refrigerant gas to about 45°C. The compressor 7a is located outside the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, the third air duct 12, the bypass air duct 13, and the mixing section 14.

The expander 7b is a device that reduces the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant liquefied by the condenser to produce a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid. The expansion device 7b has a variable throttle opening and adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path. The expansion device 7b itself is located outside the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, the third air duct 12, the bypass air duct 13, and the mixing section 14.

The four-way valve 7c is a valve for switching the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 between a first flow state and a second flow state. The first flow state is a state in which the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor 7a, the four-way valve 7c, the second heat exchanger 7f, the expander 7b, the first heat exchanger 7e, the four-way valve 7c, the evaporator 7d, and the compressor 7a. The second flow state is a state in which the refrigerant circulates in the order of the compressor 7a, the four-way valve 7c, the first heat exchanger 7e, the expander 7b, the second heat exchanger 7f, the four-way valve 7c, the evaporator 7d, and the compressor 7a. The four-way valve 7c is disposed outside the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, the bypass air passage 13, and the mixing section 14.

The evaporator 7d is a device that performs cooling, and functions as an evaporator in the refrigeration cycle 7. The evaporator 7d is installed between the suction port 5 and the heat exchange section 9 (first heat exchange air path 9a) in the first air path 10.

The first heat exchanger 7e is a device that performs either cooling or heating, and in the refrigeration cycle 7, it functions as an evaporator when cooling and as a condenser when heating. More specifically, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator and performs cooling when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in a first flow state, and functions as a condenser and performs heating when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in a second flow state. The first heat exchanger 7e is disposed between the intake port 5 and the second blower 16 in the third air passage 12.

The second heat exchanger 7f is a device that performs either cooling or heating, and functions as a condenser or an evaporator in the refrigeration cycle 7. More specifically, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the first flow state, and functions as a condenser when the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the second flow state. functions as an evaporator. The second heat exchanger 7f is arranged so as to straddle the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13. More specifically, the second heat exchanger 7f is located between the heat exchange section 9 (first heat exchange air path 9a) and the first blower 15 in the first air path 10, and is located between the second air path 11 In the bypass air passage 13, it is located between the heat exchange part 9 (second heat exchange air passage 9b) and the first air blower 15, and in the bypass air passage 13, it is arranged so as to be located between the suction port 5 and the first air blower 15. be done.

The condenser (either the first heat exchanger 7e or the second heat exchanger 7f) exchanges heat between the refrigerant gas, which has been heated to a high temperature and pressure by the compressor 7a, and the air, thereby releasing the heat to the outside (outside the refrigeration cycle). In the condenser, the temperature of the refrigerant gas introduced (approximately 45°C) is higher than the temperature of the air, so when heat is exchanged, the air is heated and the refrigerant gas is cooled. At this time, the refrigerant gas is condensed under high pressure and liquefied.

The evaporator (evaporator 7d, and the other of first heat exchanger 7e and second heat exchanger 7f) is a device in which the refrigerant that has flowed through the expander 7b absorbs heat from the air and evaporates, turning the liquid refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas. In the evaporator, the temperature of the refrigerant introduced is lower than the temperature of the air, so when heat is exchanged, the air is cooled and the temperature of the refrigerant is raised.

The refrigerant pipe 7g is a pipe that connects the compressor 7a, the expander 7b, the four-way valve 7c, the evaporator 7d, the first heat exchanger 7e, and the second heat exchanger 7f. The refrigerant pipe 7g is, for example, a copper pipe, and a refrigerant (refrigerant gas) flows through the pipe.

The humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 is a device that adds hypochlorous acid gas to the air (third air flow 3c described later) flowing inside. The humidification and sterilization section 8 has a centrifugal crushing unit and a hypochlorous acid water tank. The humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 uses a motor to rotate a centrifugal crushing unit, sucks up the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid water tank with centrifugal force, and scatters, collides, and crushes it around (in the centrifugal direction). to vaporize hypochlorous acid along with the finely divided water. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas is added to the air flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 together with the finely divided water. The humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is arranged between the second blower 16 and the mixing section 14 in the third air path 12 . Note that the hypochlorous acid gas added in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 corresponds to the "sterilizing component" in the claims. Furthermore, the "sterilization component" can also be called a "purification component."

The heat exchange unit 9 has a first heat exchange air passage 9a and a second heat exchange air passage 9b independent of the first heat exchange air passage 9a, and is a device that exchanges heat between the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. More specifically, the heat exchange unit 9 is a heat exchanger equipped with a sensible heat type heat exchange element. The heat exchange unit 9 is provided with a first heat exchange air passage 9a through which air flows in a predetermined direction and a second heat exchange air passage 9b through which air flows in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first heat exchange air passage 9a. In the first heat exchange air passage 9a, heat exchange occurs between the air flowing inside and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. Similarly, in the second heat exchange air passage 9b, heat exchange occurs between the air flowing inside and the air flowing through the first heat exchange air passage 9a. As shown in FIG. 2, the heat exchange unit 9 is disposed at a position where the first air passage 10 and the second air passage 11 intersect.

The first blower 15 is a blower fan for circulating air through the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, and the bypass air duct 13, and for blowing the air to the outside through the mixing section 14 and the air outlet 6. For example, a sirocco fan or an axial flow fan is used as the blower fan. The first blower 15 is disposed between the second heat exchanger 7f and the mixing section 14 so as to straddle the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, and the bypass air duct 13.

The second blower 16 is a blower fan that circulates air through the third air path 12 and blows it out through the mixing section 14 and the blower outlet 6. As the ventilation fan, for example, a sirocco fan or an axial fan is used. The second blower 16 is arranged between the first heat exchanger 7e and the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 in the third air path 12.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the flow of air inside the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in a dehumidifying mode. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the dehumidifying/humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention in a humidifying mode.

The sterilization-equipped dehumidifier 2 operates the first blower 15 and the second blower 16 to take in the intake air 3 from the intake port 5. The intake air 3 taken in from the intake port 5 is divided into a first airflow 3a flowing into the first air passage 10, a second airflow 3b flowing into the second air passage 11, a third airflow 3c flowing into the third air passage 12, and a fourth airflow 3d flowing into the bypass air passage. Here, the first airflow 3a corresponds to the "first part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claims, the second airflow 3b corresponds to the "second part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claims, the third airflow 3c corresponds to the "third part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claims, and the fourth airflow 3d corresponds to the "fourth part of the air taken in from the intake port" in the claims. In this embodiment, the temperature of the intake air 3 is 27°C, the relative humidity is 60%, and the air volume is 420 m ³ /h. Furthermore, the air volume of the first airflow 3a at the time of taking in air from the suction port 5 is 120 m ³ /h, the air volume of the second airflow 3b is 100 m ³ /h, the air volume of the third airflow 3c is 120 m ³ /h, and the air volume of the fourth airflow 3d is 80 m ³ /h.

The first airflow 3a is taken into the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function from the suction port 5, and then passes through the evaporator 7d, the first heat exchange air passage 9a, the second heat exchanger 7f, and the first blower 15 in this order. It circulates and flows into the mixing section 14.

The second airflow 3b is taken into the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier/humidifier 2 through the intake port 5, and then passes through the second heat exchange air duct 9b, the second heat exchanger 7f, and the first blower 15, and then flows into the mixer 14.

The third airflow 3c is taken into the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function through the suction port 5, and then flows through the first heat exchanger 7e, the second blower 16, and the humidification and sterilization section 8 in this order, and then passes through the mixing section 14. flows into.

The fourth airflow 3d is taken into the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier/humidifier 2 through the intake port 5, and then passes through the second heat exchanger 7f and the first blower 15, before flowing into the mixer 14.

The first airflow 3a, the second airflow 3b, the third airflow 3c, and the fourth airflow 3d that flow into the mixing section 14 are mixed and blown out to the outside from the air outlet 6 as blown air 4.

Next, the dehumidification mode and humidification mode of the dehumidification/humidification device 2 with a sterilization function will be described in detail.

With reference to Figure 3, the operation of the refrigeration cycle in the dehumidification mode of the dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2, the state transition of the air circulating inside, and the operation of the humidification/sterilization unit 8 will be described. The dehumidification mode is a mode in which hypochlorous acid gas is released while dehumidifying, and is used when it is desired to perform sterilization with hypochlorous acid gas while dehumidifying during the summer when humidity is high.

The dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function cools the air using the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e by setting the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 to the first flow state. More specifically, the four-way valve 7c is switched so that the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the first flow state, the opening degree of the expander 7b is adjusted, and the operation of the compressor 7a is started. At this time, the high temperature and high pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 7a flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the second heat exchanger 7f. At this time, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser. Thereafter, the refrigerant passes through the expander 7b and is depressurized, and then flows through the first heat exchanger 7e. At this time, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator. Thereafter, the refrigerant flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the evaporator 7d. Thereafter, the refrigerant flows into the compressor 7a.

The first airflow 3a is an airflow that flows through the first air passage 10 by the first blower 15.

The first air flow 3a (temperature 27° C., relative humidity 60%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) is taken into the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function through the suction port 5, and then flows through the first air path 10. , and is cooled by flowing through the evaporator 7d. As a result, the temperature of the first airflow 3a becomes lower than the dew point temperature, dew condensation occurs, and moisture contained in the first airflow 3a is removed. That is, the first airflow 3a is dehumidified by flowing through the evaporator 7d. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a flowing through the evaporator 7d is 10° C., and the relative humidity is 95%.

Thereafter, the first air flow 3a (temperature 10° C., relative humidity 95%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) flows through the first heat exchange air path 9a of the heat exchange section 9, and flows through the second heat exchange air path 9b. The temperature is increased by exchanging heat with the second air flow 3b. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a flowing through the first heat exchange air path 9a is 18° C., and the relative humidity is 60%.

Then, the first airflow 3a (temperature 18°C, relative humidity 60%, air volume 120 ^m3 /h) flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as a condenser. As a result, a part of the heat equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator and the energy for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 in the compressor 7a is discharged from the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as a condenser to the first airflow 3a. As a result, the temperature of the first airflow 3a is raised. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 7f is 32°C, and the relative humidity is 35%.

Thereafter, the first airflow 3a (temperature: 32° C., relative humidity: 35%, air volume: 120 m ³ /h) passes through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixer 14 .

The second airflow 3b is an airflow that flows through the second air passage 11 by the first blower 15.

The second airflow 3b (temperature 27°C, relative humidity 60%, air volume ^100m3 /h) is taken into the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier 2 from the inlet 5, and then flows through the second air duct 11 and flows through the second heat exchange air duct 9b of the heat exchanger 9. At this time, the second airflow 3b (temperature 27°C, relative humidity 60%, air volume ^100m3 /h) is cooled by heat exchange with the first airflow 3a (temperature 10°C, relative humidity 95%, air volume ^120m3 /h) flowing through the first heat exchange air duct 9a. As a result, the temperature of the second airflow 3b becomes equal to or lower than the dew point temperature, condensation occurs, and the second airflow 3b is dehumidified. In other words, the second airflow 3b is dehumidified by flowing through the second heat exchange air duct 9b. At this time, the air volume (100 ^m3 /h) flowing through the second heat exchange air duct 9b is smaller than the air volume (120 ^m3 /h) flowing through the first heat exchange air duct 9a. In this embodiment, the second airflow 3b flowing through the second heat exchange air duct 9b has a temperature of 18°C and a relative humidity of 90%.

Then, the second airflow 3b (temperature 18°C, relative humidity 90%, air volume 100 ^m3 /h) flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as a condenser. As a result, a part of the heat equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator and the energy for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 in the compressor 7a is discharged from the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as a condenser to the second airflow 3b. As a result, the temperature of the second airflow 3b is raised. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second airflow 3b that has flowed through the second heat exchanger 7f is 32°C, and the relative humidity is 35%.

Thereafter, the second airflow 3b (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, air volume 100 m ³ /h) passes through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixer 14 .

Further, the third airflow 3c is an airflow that flows through the third airway 12 by the second blower 16.

The third air flow 3c (temperature 27°C, relative humidity 60%, air volume 120 ^m3 /h) is taken into the dehumidifier with sterilization function 2 from the inlet 5, then flows through the third air duct 12 and is cooled by passing through the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator. In this embodiment, the third air flow 3c that has passed through the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator has a temperature of 19°C and a relative humidity of 95%.

Thereafter, the third air flow 3c (temperature 19° C., relative humidity 95%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) flows through the second blower 16 and then through the humidification and sterilization section 8 . As a result, hypochlorous acid gas is added to the third air flow 3c. It is also humidified at the same time. However, since the third airflow 3c introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is low temperature and high humidity air, humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is suppressed. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is 19° C., and the relative humidity is 99%.

Thereafter, the third airflow 3c (temperature 19° C., relative humidity 99%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) flows into the mixing section 14 .

Furthermore, the fourth airflow 3d is an airflow that flows through the bypass air passage 13 by the first blower 15.

The fourth air flow 3d (temperature 27° C., relative humidity 60%, air volume 80 m ³ /h) is taken into the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function from the suction port 5, and then flows through the bypass air path 13, It flows through the second heat exchanger 7f which functions as a condenser. As a result, one part of the amount of heat corresponding to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator, and the energy for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 in the compressor 7a. part is exhausted from the second heat exchanger 7f, which functions as a condenser, to the fourth air stream 3d. At this time, the total amount of energy exhausted from the second heat exchanger 7f to the first airflow 3a, the second airflow 3b, and the fourth airflow 3d is in the evaporator 7d and the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as an evaporator. This corresponds to the sum of the energy absorbed and the energy for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 in the compressor 7a. As a result, the temperature of the fourth airflow 3d is increased. In this embodiment, the temperature of the fourth airflow 3d flowing through the second heat exchanger 7f is 32° C., and the relative humidity is 35%.

Thereafter, the fourth airflow 3d (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, air volume 80 m ³ /h) passes through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixer 14 .

A first airflow 3a (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, air volume 120m ³ /h), a second airflow 3b (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, airflow 100m ³ /h), and a third airflow flowed into the mixing part 14. The airflow 3c (temperature 19°C, relative humidity 99%, air volume 120m ³ /h) and the fourth airflow 3d (temperature 32°C, relative humidity 35%, airflow 80m ³ /h) are mixed in the mixing section 14 and dehumidified. , and is blown out from the outlet 6 as blown air 4 to which hypochlorous acid gas has been added. At this time, the temperature of the blown air 4 is 28° C., the relative humidity is 47%, the air volume is 420 m ³ /h, and the amount of dehumidification is 25 L/day.

As described above, in the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilizing function according to the present embodiment, by executing the dehumidifying mode, the air flowing inside the device is dehumidified, and the humidifying sterilizing section 8 has a low temperature and a high temperature. Since humid air in which moisture is difficult to vaporize can be introduced, humidification when hypochlorous acid gas is vaporized and released can be suppressed. Therefore, dehumidification can be performed while adding hypochlorous acid gas, such as in the hot and humid summer months.

Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the operation of the refrigeration cycle in the humidification mode of the dehumidification/dehumidification device 2 with a sterilization function, the state transition of the air flowing therein, and the operation of the humidification/dehumidification section 8 will be described. Humidification mode is a mode that releases hypochlorous acid gas while humidifying, and is used when you want to humidify and also sterilize with hypochlorous acid gas, such as during the winter when humidity is low. .

The dehumidification/humidification device 2 with a sterilization function heats the air by the first heat exchanger 7e by setting the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 to the second flow state. More specifically, the four-way valve 7c is switched so that the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 is in the second flow state, the opening degree of the expander 7b is adjusted, and the operation of the compressor 7a is started. At this time, the high temperature and high pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 7a flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the first heat exchanger 7e. At this time, the first heat exchanger 7e functions as a condenser. Thereafter, the refrigerant passes through the expander 7b and is depressurized, and then flows through the second heat exchanger 7f. At this time, the second heat exchanger 7f functions as an evaporator. Thereafter, the refrigerant flows through the four-way valve 7c and then through the evaporator 7d. Thereafter, the refrigerant flows into the compressor 7a.

The first airflow 3a is an airflow that flows through the first air passage 10 by the first blower 15.

The first airflow 3a (temperature 20°C, relative humidity 30%, air volume 120 ^m3 /h) is taken into the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function from the inlet 5, then flows through the first air duct 10 and passes through the evaporator 7d. As a result, the first airflow 3a absorbs heat and is cooled by the evaporator 7d. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that has passed through the evaporator 7d is 15°C, and the relative humidity is 42%.

Thereafter, the first air flow 3a (temperature 15° C., relative humidity 42%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) flows through the first heat exchange air path 9a of the heat exchange section 9, and flows through the second heat exchange air path 9b. The temperature is increased by exchanging heat with the second air flow 3b. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a flowing through the first heat exchange air path 9a is 18° C., and the relative humidity is 34%.

Then, the first airflow 3a (temperature 18°C, relative humidity 34%, air volume 120 ^m3 /h) flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as an evaporator. As a result, the first airflow 3a absorbs heat and is cooled by the second heat exchanger 7f. In this embodiment, the temperature of the first airflow 3a that flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as an evaporator is 13°C, and the relative humidity is 47%.

Thereafter, the first air flow 3a (temperature 13° C., relative humidity 47%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) flows through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixing section 14 .

The second airflow 3b is an airflow that flows through the second air passage 11 by the first blower 15.

The second air flow 3b (temperature 20° C., relative humidity 30%, air volume 100 m ³ /h) is taken into the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function through the suction port 5, and then flows through the second air path 11. , which flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the heat exchange section 9. At this time, the second air flow 3b (temperature 20°C, relative humidity 30%, air volume 100 m ³ /h) is the first air flow 3a (temperature 15°C, relative humidity 42%, air volume 100 m 3 /h) flowing through the first heat exchange air path 9a. 120 m ³ /h) and is cooled by heat exchange. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second airflow 3b flowing through the second heat exchange air path 9b is 17° C., and the relative humidity is 37%.

Then, the second airflow 3b (temperature 17°C, relative humidity 37%, air volume 100 ^m3 /h) flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as an evaporator. As a result, the second airflow 3b absorbs heat and is cooled by the second heat exchanger 7f. In this embodiment, the temperature of the second airflow 3b that flows through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as an evaporator is 12°C, and the relative humidity is 49%.

Thereafter, the second air flow 3b (temperature 12° C., relative humidity 49%, air volume 100 m ³ /h) flows through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixing section 14 .

Further, the third airflow 3c is an airflow that flows through the third airway 12 by the second blower 16.

The third airflow 3c (temperature 20°C, relative humidity 30%, air volume 120 ^m3 /h) is taken into the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier/humidifier 2 from the inlet 5, then flows through the third air duct 12 and is heated by passing through the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as a condenser. At this time, an amount of heat equivalent to the sum of the energy absorbed in the evaporator 7d and the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as an evaporator and the energy for circulating the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle 7 in the compressor 7a is discharged from the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as a condenser to the third airflow 3c. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c that has passed through the first heat exchanger 7e functioning as a condenser is 45°C, and the relative humidity is 7%.

Thereafter, the third airflow 3c (temperature 45° C., relative humidity 7%, air volume 120 m ³ /h) flows through the second blower 16 and then through the humidification and sterilization section 8 . As a result, hypochlorous acid gas is added to the third air flow 3c. It is also humidified at the same time. At this time, since the third airflow 3c introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is high temperature and low humidity air, humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is promoted. In this embodiment, the temperature of the third airflow 3c flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 is 22° C., and the relative humidity is 80%.

Thereafter, the third airflow 3c (temperature: 22° C., relative humidity: 80%, air volume: 120 m ³ /h) flows into the mixing section 14 .

Furthermore, the fourth airflow 3d is an airflow that flows through the bypass air passage 13 by the first blower 15.

The fourth airflow 3d (temperature 20°C, relative humidity 30%, air volume 80 ^m3 /h) is taken into the dehumidifier with sterilization function 2 from the inlet 5, then flows through the bypass air duct 13 and passes through the second heat exchanger 7f functioning as an evaporator. As a result, the fourth airflow 3d has heat absorbed by the second heat exchanger 7f and is cooled. In this embodiment, the temperature of the fourth airflow 3d that has passed through the second heat exchanger 7f is 13°C, and the relative humidity is 47%.

Thereafter, the fourth airflow 3d (temperature: 13°C, relative humidity: 47%, air volume: 80 m ³ /h) passes through the first blower 15 and flows into the mixer 14 .

A first airflow 3a (temperature 13°C, relative humidity 47%, air volume 120m ³ /h), a second airflow 3b (temperature 12°C, relative humidity 49%, airflow 100m ³ /h), and a third airflow flowed into the mixing part 14. The airflow 3c (temperature 22°C, relative humidity 80%, air volume 100m ³ /h) and the fourth airflow 3d (temperature 13°C, relative humidity 47%, airflow 80m ³ /h) are mixed in the mixing section 14 and humidified. , and is blown out from the outlet 6 as blown air 4 to which hypochlorous acid gas has been added. At this time, the temperature of the blown air 4 is 16° C., the relative humidity is 64%, the air volume is 420 m ³ /h, and the humidification amount is 31 L/day.

As described above, in the dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2 of this embodiment, by executing the humidification mode, the air circulating inside the device is heated and high-temperature, low-humidity air in which moisture vaporizes easily can be introduced into the humidifier/sterilizer unit 8. Therefore, when humidifying while adding hypochlorous acid gas in the humidifier/sterilizer unit 8, the amount of humidification can be increased compared to when simply introducing air from within the living space 1. Therefore, humidification can be performed while adding hypochlorous acid gas during low-temperature, low-humidity seasons such as winter.

As described above, the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function according to the first embodiment provides the following advantages:

(1) The dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function includes a suction port 5 that takes in external air, a compressor 7a, an expander 7b, a four-way valve 7c that switches the refrigerant flow state, an evaporator 7d, and a heating Alternatively, a refrigeration cycle 7 including a first heat exchanger 7e that performs one of cooling and a second heat exchanger 7f that performs the other of heating or cooling, and humidifying and sterilizing the air flowing therethrough. It has a humidifying and sterilizing section 8 that adds components, a first heat exchange air path 9a, and a second heat exchange air path 9b that is independent of the first heat exchange air path 9a, and the first heat exchange air path 9a. The heat exchange section 9 exchanges heat between the air flowing through the air flow path and the air flowing through the second heat exchange air passage 9b, and the first portion (first air flow 3a) of the air taken in from the suction port 5 is transferred to the evaporator 7d, A first air passage 10 that flows in the order of the first heat exchange air passage 9a, and a second air passage where a second portion (second air flow 3b) of the air taken in from the suction port 5 flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b. 11, a third air path 12 through which a third portion (third air flow 3c) of air taken in from the suction port 5 flows through the first heat exchanger 7e and the humidifying/sterilizing section 8 in this order, and the first air path 10. , a second air passage 11, and an air outlet 6 for blowing out the air flowing through the third air passage 12 to the outside. The four-way valve 7c puts the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 into a first flow state, and the first heat exchanger 7e functions as an evaporator for cooling, and the second heat exchanger 7f functions as a condenser for heating. The refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle 7 is set to a second flow state different from the first flow state by the four-way valve 7c, and the second heat exchanger 7f functions as an evaporator, and the first heat exchanger 7e has a humidification mode in which it functions as a condenser.

According to this configuration, in the dehumidification mode, the first portion (first airflow 3a) of external air taken in from the suction port 5 flows through the first air path 10. In the process, the first portion of air (first airflow 3a) passes through the cooled evaporator 7d, becomes low temperature, and is dew-condensed, that is, dehumidified. Then, the low-temperature air flows through the first heat exchange air path 9a, and is then blown out from the air outlet 6. Further, a second portion (second airflow 3b) of external air taken in from the suction port 5 flows through the second air path 11. In the process, the second part of the air (second air flow 3b) flows through the second heat exchange air path 9b, becomes low temperature by exchanging heat with the low temperature air flowing through the first heat exchange air path 9a, and condenses. , that is, it is dehumidified. Thereafter, the second portion of the dehumidified air (second airflow 3b) is blown out from the outlet 6. Further, a third portion (third airflow 3c) of external air taken in from the suction port 5 flows through the third air path 12. In the process, the third portion of air (third airflow 3c) passes through the cooled first heat exchanger 7e and becomes low temperature. Then, the low-temperature air flows through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, where it is humidified and added with a sterilizing component, and then blown out from the air outlet 6. As a result, while dehumidifying the air circulating inside the device, it is possible to introduce low-temperature air in which moisture does not evaporate easily into the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, so that the amount of humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8 can be suppressed. .

On the other hand, in the humidification mode, the first part (first airflow 3a) of the outside air taken in from the intake port 5 flows through the first air passage 10. In the process, the first part (first airflow 3a) of the air passes through the cooled evaporator 7d and becomes cold. The cold air then flows through the first heat exchange air passage 9a and is then blown out from the outlet 6 to the outside. In addition, the second part (second airflow 3b) of the outside air taken in from the intake port 5 flows through the second air passage 11. In the process, the second part (second airflow 3b) of the air passes through the second heat exchange air passage 9b and is then blown out from the outlet 6 to the outside. In addition, the third part (third airflow 3c) of the air taken in from the intake port 5 passes through the heated first heat exchanger 7e and becomes hot. The hot air then flows through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, where it is humidified and has sterilizing components added, and is then blown out from the outlet 6 to the outside. As a result, high-temperature air in which moisture evaporates easily can be introduced into the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8, so the amount of humidification in the humidifying and sterilizing unit 8 can be increased.

In other words, in the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function, by switching between the dehumidifying mode and the humidifying mode, it dehumidifies while releasing sterilizing ingredients during periods of high humidity (for example, summer in Japan), and dehumidifies while releasing sterilizing ingredients during periods of low humidity (for example, during the summer season in Japan). For example, during Japan's winter season, it is possible to humidify while releasing sterilizing ingredients. In other words, the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function is a device that can release sterilization components while maintaining comfort throughout the year.

(2) In the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function, the first air flow 3a flows through the first air path 10 in the order of the evaporator 7d, the first heat exchange air path 9a, and the second heat exchanger 7f, In the second air passage 11, the second air flow 3b flows through the second heat exchange air passage 9b and the second heat exchanger 7f in this order. As a result, in the dehumidification mode, the air that is cooled by flowing through the evaporator 7d or the second heat exchange air path 9b and becomes low temperature flows through the second heat exchanger 7f. heat dissipation is promoted. As a result, the temperature of the evaporator 7d becomes lower, and dehumidification in the evaporator 7d can be promoted. Furthermore, since the first heat exchanger 7e becomes lower in temperature and the air flowing through the humidification and sterilization section 8 becomes lower in temperature, humidification by the humidification and sterilization section 8 is further suppressed. In other words, the dehumidification effect in the dehumidification mode can be enhanced.

(3) In the dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilization function, the air flowing through the first air path 10 (first air flow 3a), the air flowing through the second air path 11 (second air flow 3b), and the third air flow It includes a mixing section 14 that mixes the air (third airflow 3c) that has passed through the passage 12, and the air mixed in the mixing section 14 is blown out from the blow-off port 6. Thereby, variations in temperature, humidity, and sterilizing components of the air blown out from the outlet 6 can be reduced, and comfort can be further improved.

(4) In the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function, the fourth portion (fourth airflow 3d) of the air taken in from the inlet 5 is provided with a bypass air passage 13 through which the second heat exchanger 7f flows, and the outlet 6 blows the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage 13 to the outside. In this way, the amount of air flowing through the second heat exchanger 7f increases, and in the dehumidification mode, the heat dissipation of the second heat exchanger 7f is promoted, and in the humidification mode, the heat absorption of the second heat exchanger 7f is promoted. As a result, in the dehumidification mode, the evaporator 7d becomes colder, and dehumidification in the evaporator 7d is promoted. Furthermore, the first heat exchanger 7e becomes colder, and the air flowing through the humidification/sterilization unit 8 becomes colder, so that humidification by the humidification/sterilization unit 8 is further suppressed. In addition, in the humidification mode, the first heat exchanger 7e becomes hotter, and the air flowing through the humidification/sterilization unit 8 becomes hotter, so that humidification by the humidification/sterilization unit 8 is further promoted. In other words, the dehumidifying effect can be increased in dehumidification mode, and the humidifying effect can be increased in humidification mode.

(5) The dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function is provided with a mixing section 14 that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air duct 10 (first airflow 3a), the air that has flowed through the second air duct 11 (second airflow 3b), the air that has flowed through the third air duct 12 (third airflow 3c), and the air that has flowed through the bypass air duct 13 (fourth airflow 3d), and the air mixed in the mixing section 14 is blown out from the air outlet 6. This reduces the variation in temperature, humidity, and sterilizing components of the air blown out from the air outlet 6, further improving comfort.

Although the present invention has been described above based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. can be easily inferred.

The dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment is installed on the underside of the ceiling surface 1a of the living space 1, but this is not limited to this. For example, the same effect can be obtained with a device configuration that can be placed on the floor of the living space 1.

Further, in the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilizing function according to the present embodiment, hypochlorous acid gas is added as a sterilizing component to the third airflow 3c flowing through the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by vaporizing a chemical solution containing a sterilizing component such as chlorus acid water, ozone water, or hydrogen peroxide solution in the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, a sterilizing component such as chlorine gas, ozone gas, or hydrogen peroxide gas can be used. may be added to the third airflow 3c. Even in this manner, the living space 1 can be sterilized. In other words, it is possible to create a device that can release sterilizing ingredients throughout the year while maintaining comfort.

In addition, in the dehumidifier/humidifier 2 with sterilization function according to this embodiment, the intake air 3 is taken from the living space 1 and the exhaust air 4 is blown into the living space 1, but this is not limited to the above. For example, air supplied to the living space 1 by a ventilation device separately installed in the living space 1 may be taken into the device as intake air 3, and after being subjected to humidity control and the addition of sterilizing components, it may be blown into the living space 1 as exhaust air 4. More specifically, the ventilation device and the intake port 5 are connected in communication with each other by a duct, and the air supplied to the living space 1 by the ventilation device is transported to the intake port 5 through the duct and taken into the device as intake air 3. In this manner, humidity control and sterilization of the living space 1 can also be performed.

In addition, the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier 2 according to the present embodiment has one each of the suction port 5 and the blower port 6, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 may each have a suction port for taking in air, and a blower port corresponding to each suction port. In other words, without providing the mixing section 14, blower ports corresponding to the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 may each be provided, and the first air flow 3a, the second air flow 3b, the third air flow 3c, and the fourth air flow 3d that have flowed through the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13 may each be blown out to the outside individually. In this way, the constraints on the configuration of the sterilization-equipped dehumidifier 2 are reduced, and effects such as miniaturization of the device or reduction in pressure loss can be enjoyed.

Further, in the dehumidifying and dehumidifying device 2 with a sterilizing function according to the present embodiment, a centrifugal crushing unit is used as the humidifying and sterilizing section 8, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a vaporization filter configured to contain hypochlorous acid water may be used. Even in this case, it is possible to humidify and add hypochlorous acid gas to the air flowing inside, and the living space 1 can be humidified and sterilized.

In addition, the dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function 2 according to this embodiment is provided with two blowers, the first blower 15 and the second blower 16, but this is not limited to the above. For example, one blower may be placed close to the intake port 5. Alternatively, a blower may be provided inside each of the first air duct 10, the second air duct 11, the third air duct 12, and the bypass air duct 13. In this way, air can be circulated through each air duct, and the same effect can be achieved.

In addition, in the dehumidifying/humidifying device 2 with sterilization function according to the present embodiment, the second heat exchanger 7f is arranged in the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13, but this is not limited to this. For example, the second heat exchanger 7f may be arranged outside the air passage (outside the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, the third air passage 12, and the bypass air passage 13) and air may be circulated by another blower. In that case, the bypass air passage 13 is not necessary. Alternatively, the second heat exchanger 7f may be arranged only in the bypass air passage 13. Alternatively, the second heat exchanger 7f may be arranged in either or both of the first air passage 10 and the second air passage 11 without providing the bypass air passage 13. Alternatively, the second heat exchanger 7f may be arranged in either the first air passage 10 or the second air passage 11 and the bypass air passage 13. Even in this way, the temperature and humidity conditions of the blown air 4 change, but the same effect can be enjoyed.

In addition, in the dehumidifying and humidifying device 2 with a sterilization function according to the present embodiment, the first air passage 10, the second air passage 11, and the bypass air passage 13 are designed to prevent air from flowing back and forth between the air passages. Although it is separated from the port 5 to the mixing section 14, it is not limited thereto. For example, a wall separating the downstream side of the first heat exchange air path 9a of the first air path 10, the downstream side of the second heat exchange air path 9b of the second air path 11, and the bypass air path 13, etc. The air flowing downstream from the first heat exchange air passage 9a of the first air passage 10 and the air flowing downstream from the second heat exchange air passage 9b of the second air passage 11 before flowing into the mixing section 14. The air flowing through the bypass air passage 13 may be mixed with the air flowing through the bypass air passage 13. Even in this case, similar effects can be obtained.

The dehumidifier/humidifier with sterilization function according to this embodiment improves the comfort of the space throughout the year by switching between dehumidification and humidification, while reducing the risk of infection through sterilization, and is useful as a device that sterilizes while dehumidifying or humidifying indoor spaces, etc.

1 Living space 1a Top surface 2 Dehumidifier with sterilization function 3 Intake air 3a First airflow 3b Second airflow 3c Third airflow 3d Fourth airflow 4 Blowout air 5 Suction port 6 Blowout port 7 Refrigeration cycle 7a Compressor 7b Expansion Container 7c Four-way valve 7d Evaporator 7e First heat exchanger 7f Second heat exchanger 7g Refrigerant pipe 8 Humidification and sterilization section 9 Heat exchange section 9a First heat exchange air path 9b Second heat exchange air path 10 First air path 11 Second air passage 12 Third air passage 13 Bypass air passage 14 Mixing section 15 First air blower 16 Second air blower

Claims (5)

A suction port that takes in outside air,
A compressor, an expander, a four-way valve that switches the refrigerant flow state, an evaporator, a first heat exchanger that performs either heating or cooling, and a second heat exchanger that performs the other heating or cooling. A refrigeration cycle consisting of;
a humidifying and sterilizing section that humidifies and adds a sterilizing component to the air circulating inside;
It has a first heat exchange air path and a second heat exchange air path independent of the first heat exchange air path, and air flows through the first heat exchange air path and air flows through the second heat exchange air path. a heat exchange section that exchanges heat between the
a first air path through which a first portion of air taken in from the suction port flows through the evaporator and the first heat exchange air path in this order;
a second air path through which a second portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the second heat exchange air path;
a third air path through which a third portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the first heat exchanger and the humidifying and sterilizing section in this order;
an outlet that blows out the air that has passed through the first air path, the second air path, and the third air path to the outside;
Equipped with
The four-way valve causes the flow of refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle to be in a first flow state, and the first heat exchanger functions as an evaporator for cooling, and the second heat exchanger functions as a condenser for heating. the refrigerant flow in the refrigeration cycle is set to a second flow state different from the first flow state by the four-way valve, the second heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, and the first heat exchanger functions as an evaporator; A dehumidifying device with a sterilization function, which has a humidifying mode in which an exchanger functions as a condenser. In the first air path, the first portion flows through the evaporator, the first heat exchange air path, and the second heat exchanger in this order,
The dehumidifying and dehumidifying device with a sterilization function according to claim 1, wherein the second portion flows through the second air passage in the order of the second heat exchange air passage and the second heat exchanger. a mixing section that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the air that has flowed through the second air passage, and the air that has flowed through the third air passage,
The dehumidifying/humidifying device with sterilization function according to claim 2 , wherein the air mixed in the mixing section is blown out from the air outlet to the outside. further comprising a bypass air path through which a fourth portion of the air taken in from the suction port flows through the second heat exchanger;
The dehumidifier and dehumidifier with a sterilization function according to claim 2, wherein the air outlet blows out the air that has passed through the bypass air path to the outside. a mixing section that mixes the air that has flowed through the first air passage, the air that has flowed through the second air passage, the air that has flowed through the third air passage, and the air that has flowed through the bypass air passage,
The dehumidifying/humidifying device with sterilization function according to claim 4, wherein the air mixed in the mixing section is blown out to the outside from the air outlet.

Images