JP5786774B2 - Humidity control device - Google Patents

Description

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

  Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose humidity control devices that adjust the humidity of air using an adsorption heat exchanger that supports an adsorbent. This humidity control apparatus includes a refrigerant circuit provided with a compressor, an expansion valve, a four-way switching valve, and two adsorption heat exchangers.

  This humidity control apparatus performs a so-called batch operation. Specifically, in this humidity control apparatus, the four-way switching valve of the refrigerant circuit operates every predetermined time (for example, every 3 minutes) during operation of the compressor. When the four-way switching valve of the refrigerant circuit is activated, the first adsorption heat exchanger serves as a condenser and the second adsorption heat exchanger serves as an evaporator, and the second adsorption heat exchanger serves as a condenser. The operation in which the adsorption heat exchanger becomes an evaporator switches between each other.

The humidity control apparatus, these two operations, repeated alternately at predetermined time intervals, and air dehumidified in the adsorption heat exchanger functioning as an evaporator, is humidified in the adsorption heat exchanger functioning as a condenser One of the air is supplied to the room and the other is discharged to the outside. Specifically, the humidity control apparatus includes a dehumidifying operation for supplying dehumidified outdoor air to the room and discharging the humidified indoor air to the outside, and supplying dehumidified outdoor air to the room for dehumidifying the room air. Humidification operation that discharges to the outside.

JP 2006-329591 A JP 2004-353889 A

  As described above, the humidity control devices disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 alternately perform the two operations described above. At that time, in the refrigerant circuit, the four-way switching valve operates during operation of the compressor. For this reason, in the refrigerant circuit of the humidity control apparatus, the difference ΔP between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle fluctuates periodically.

The fluctuation of the pressure difference ΔP in the refrigerant circuit of the humidity controller will be described with reference to FIG. Four-way switching valve is actuated at time t _1, the operation of the humidity control apparatus is switched. In this case, at time t ₁ , the second adsorption heat exchanger that has been functioning as a condenser is connected to the suction side of the compressor, and the first adsorption heat exchanger that has been functioning as an evaporator is compressed. Connect to the discharge side of the machine. Therefore, the pressure difference ΔP is first rapidly decreases thereafter until the time t ₂ when the first operation is completed (i.e., until the next time the four-way switching valve is actuated) Yuku gradually increased. Then, the four-way switching valve operates while the pressure difference ΔP is increasing, and the operation of the humidity control device is switched. Then, the pressure difference ΔP decreases again rapidly, then slide into gradually increased until the time t ₃ when the second operation is completed.

  Thus, in the refrigerant circuit of the humidity control apparatus, the four-way switching valve operates in a state where the pressure difference ΔP is relatively large. For this reason, the flow direction and flow velocity of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit may change abruptly and noise may occur. In particular, in the refrigerant circuit of the humidity control apparatus, the four-way switching valve frequently operates at relatively short time intervals. For this reason, there is a possibility that the user's comfort may be impaired by noise generated when the four-way switching valve is operated.

  This invention is made | formed in view of this point, The objective is to reduce the noise which arises at the time of the action | operation of a four-way selector valve in the humidity control apparatus which is equipped with an adsorption heat exchanger and performs batch operation.

  The first invention includes a first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) and a second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) each carrying an adsorbent, a variable capacity compressor (31), and an expansion valve (37,38). ) And a four-way switching valve (32), and a refrigerant circuit (30) for performing a refrigeration cycle, and operating the four-way switching valve (32) at every predetermined switching time, thereby providing the second adsorption heat. A first operation in which the exchanger (33b) serves as a radiator to humidify air and the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) serves as an evaporator to dehumidify the air, and the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) ) Becomes a radiator and humidifies air, and the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) becomes an evaporator and alternately repeats a second operation of dehumidifying the air, and the first adsorption heat exchanger ( 33a) and a humidity control device that supplies air that has passed through one of the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) to the room and discharges air that has passed through the other to the outside Is targeted. When the difference between the high pressure and the low pressure in the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) exceeds a predetermined reference pressure, the compressor ( 31) is provided with a controller (100) that performs a switching preparation operation for temporarily reducing the capacity of (31).

  In the first invention, the four-way switching valve (32) of the refrigerant circuit (30) is operated every predetermined switching time, and the first operation and the second operation are switched each time the switching time elapses. In the refrigerant circuit (30), a refrigeration cycle is performed, and one of the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functions as a radiator and the other functions as an evaporator. In the adsorption heat exchanger (33a, 33b) functioning as a radiator, moisture is desorbed from the adsorbent heated by the refrigerant, and this moisture is given to the air passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (33a, 33b). In the adsorption heat exchanger (33a, 33b) functioning as an evaporator, moisture in the air passing therethrough is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the adsorption heat generated at that time is absorbed by the refrigerant and evaporated.

  In the humidity control apparatus (10) of the first invention, the difference ΔP between the high pressure and low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) varies. This pressure difference ΔP temporarily decreases immediately after the four-way switching valve (32) is actuated (that is, immediately after the operation of the humidity control device (10) is switched from one of the first operation and the second operation to the other), Then it gradually increases. The controller (100) of the present invention performs a switching preparation operation when the pressure difference ΔP exceeds a predetermined reference pressure. In this switching preparation operation, the controller (100) reduces the capacity of the compressor (31) at a time that is a first predetermined time before the operation time of the four-way switching valve (32), and reduces the capacity of the four-way switching valve (32 ) Will return to the original capacity of the compressor (31).

  When the controller (100) of the first aspect of the invention performs the switching preparation operation, the capacity of the compressor (31) is temporarily reduced before the four-way switching valve (32) is actuated. When the capacity of the compressor (31) decreases, the difference ΔP between the high pressure and low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) also decreases. Therefore, in this case, the pressure difference ΔP at the time when the four-way switching valve (32) is operated is lower than when the capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant until the four-way switching valve (32) is operated.

In the first invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the controller (100) operates the four-way switching valve (32) to reduce the capacity of the compressor (31) reduced during the switching preparation operation. It keeps constant until it does.

In the first invention, the controller (100) performing the switching preparation operation keeps the reduced capacity of the compressor (31) constant until the next time the four-way switching valve (32) is operated.

Further, according to the first invention, in addition to the above-described configuration, the controller (100) has a second predetermined point in time when the four-way switching valve (32) is operated from the start of the first operation and the second operation. Until the time before, the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) is kept constant, and the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) during the second predetermined time until the four-way switching valve (32) operates. On the other hand, the first predetermined time is longer than the second predetermined time.

In the first invention, the controller (100) performs the opening degree control operation. When the first operation or the second operation is started, the controller (100) next performs a second predetermined time when the four-way switching valve (32) is operated next (that is, when the first operation or the second operation is finished). Until the time before, the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) is kept constant. When the second predetermined time before the point in time when the four-way switching valve (32) is activated, the controller (100) causes the expansion valve (37, 38) to remain on until the four-way switching valve (32) is activated. Adjust the opening. That is, the controller (100) adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) over the second predetermined time until each operation is completed in each of the first operation and the second operation that are repeatedly performed. On the other hand, the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) is kept constant during other periods.

In the controller (100) of the first invention, the first predetermined time related to the switching preparation operation is longer than the second predetermined time related to the opening degree control operation. As described above, the controller (100) performs the switching preparation operation when the difference ΔP between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) exceeds the reference pressure. In that case, the controller (100) reduces the capacity of the compressor (31) when the first predetermined time before the point in time when the four-way switching valve (32) operates, and then the four-way switching valve (32) operates. When the second predetermined time before the time comes, the opening control of the expansion valve (37, 38) is started.

In addition to the above-described configuration, the first invention provides the controller (100) with the expansion valve (37) in a state where the capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant during the switching preparation operation. , 38) is started.

The controller (100) of the first invention starts adjusting the opening of the expansion valve (37, 38) after the capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant during the switching preparation operation.

  In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the controller (100) includes the compressor (31) from the start of the first operation and the second operation to the start of the switching preparation operation. Is maintained at the required capacity determined according to the humidity control load of the humidity control apparatus, and the capacity of the compressor (31) is made lower than the required capacity during the switching preparation operation.

  In the second invention, the controller (100) determines the required capacity according to the humidity control load of the humidity control apparatus (10). Then, during the period from the start of the first operation and the second operation to the start of the switching preparation operation, the controller (100) holds the capacity of the compressor (31) at the required capacity. When performing the switching preparation operation, the controller (100) lowers the capacity of the compressor (31) below the required capacity when the first predetermined time before the next operation of the four-way switching valve (32) occurs.

  In the present invention, the controller (100) of the humidity control apparatus (10) performs a switching preparation operation when the difference ΔP between the high pressure and low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) exceeds the reference pressure. For this reason, the capacity | capacitance of a compressor (31) falls temporarily over the 1st predetermined time until a four-way selector valve (32) act | operates, and the pressure difference (DELTA) P also falls. Therefore, according to the present invention, the pressure difference ΔP when the four-way switching valve (32) is operated is compared with the case where the operating capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant until the four-way switching valve (32) is operated. Can be reduced. As a result, fluctuations in the flow direction and flow rate of the refrigerant accompanying the operation of the four-way switching valve (32) can be suppressed, and noise caused by the operation of the four-way switching valve (32) can be reduced.

  Particularly, the controller (100) of the fourth aspect of the invention starts adjusting the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) after reducing the capacity of the compressor (31) by the switching preparation operation. The controller (100) of the present invention keeps the capacity of the compressor (31) constant during the switching preparation operation. Therefore, according to the present invention, the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) can be adjusted while the capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant, and the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) can be adjusted. Can be appropriately controlled.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidity control apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the humidity control apparatus according to the embodiment in which a part of the casing is omitted. FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram schematically showing a humidity control apparatus according to an embodiment in which a part of the casing is omitted, in which (A) is a plan view, (B) is a front view, and (C ) Is a left side view, and (D) is a right side view. 4A and 4B are schematic cross-sectional views schematically showing the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment, in which FIG. 4A is a YY cross-section of FIG. 3A and FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of FIG. A ZZ cross section is shown. FIG. 5: is a circuit diagram which shows the refrigerant circuit of the humidity control apparatus of embodiment, and a block diagram which shows the structure of the controller. FIG. 6 is a view corresponding to FIG. 3 illustrating the flow of air in the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment, and illustrates the flow of air in the first operation of the dehumidifying operation and the second operation of the humidifying operation. FIG. 7 is a view corresponding to FIG. 4 showing the air flow in the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment, and shows the air flow in the first operation of the dehumidifying operation and the second operation of the humidifying operation. FIG. 8 is a view corresponding to FIG. 3 illustrating the flow of air in the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment, and illustrates the flow of air in the second operation of the dehumidifying operation and the first operation of the humidifying operation. FIG. 9 is a view corresponding to FIG. 4 illustrating the air flow in the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment, and illustrates the air flow in the second operation of the dehumidifying operation and the first operation of the humidifying operation. FIG. 10 is a time chart showing temporal changes in the rotational speed of the compressor and the opening degree of the expansion valve in the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a graph showing temporal changes in the difference ΔP between the high and low pressures of the refrigeration cycle in the humidity control apparatus of the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a graph showing temporal changes in the difference ΔP between the high pressure and low pressure of the refrigeration cycle in the conventional humidity control apparatus.

  An embodiment of the present invention will be described. The embodiments described below are essentially preferable examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its application, or its use.

  The humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment is a floor-type humidity control apparatus that is installed on the floor surface of a room and performs indoor ventilation and humidity adjustment. This humidity control apparatus (10) is mainly installed in a house.

  The configuration of the humidity control apparatus (10) will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, “up”, “down”, “right”, “left”, “front”, and “rear” indicate the directions of the humidity control device (10) shown in FIG. 1 unless otherwise specified. Use as a reference when viewed from the side.

<Overall configuration of humidity control device>
As shown in FIG. 1, the humidity control apparatus (10) includes a vertically long rectangular parallelepiped box-shaped casing (11). The casing (11) has a rectangular plate-like bottom plate (12) and top plate (13), and panels (14, 15, and 4) arranged one by one corresponding to the four sides of the bottom plate (12) and top plate (13). 16, 17). Of these panels (14,15,16,17), the one arranged on the front side is the front panel (14), the one arranged on the rear side is the rear panel (15), and is arranged on the right side. The right side panel (16) is the left side panel (17), and the left side panel (17) is the one arranged on the left side.

  Four duct connection ports (18a to 18d) are attached to the top plate (13). Specifically, on the top plate (13), the air supply connection port (18a) is on the front right side, the exhaust connection port (18b) is on the rear right side, and the outside air connection port (18c) is on the front left side. A room air connection port (18d) is provided. Each of the air supply connection port (18a) and the room air connection port (18d) communicates with the indoor space via a duct. The exhaust connection port (18b) and the outside air connection port (18c) each communicate with the outdoor space through a duct. In the humidity control apparatus (10), outdoor air (OA) is sucked into the outdoor air connection port (18c), and indoor air (RA) is sucked into the indoor air connection port (18d). In the humidity control apparatus (10), supply air (SA) is blown out from the air supply connection port (18a), and exhaust air (EA) is blown out from the exhaust connection port (18b).

  As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, a lower space (S1), an intermediate space (S2), and an upper space (S3) are formed in the casing (11).

  In the lower space (S1), an outside air inflow channel (61), a reheat chamber (63), and a machine chamber (60) are formed.

  The outside air inflow path (61) extends upward along the left side panel (17) of the casing (11). The outside air inflow passage (61) communicates with the outside air connection port (18c) via an outside air suction chamber (19c) described later (see FIGS. 3C and 4A).

  The reheat chamber (63) is formed on the left side of the casing (11). In the reheat chamber (63), a lower lower outside air channel (63a) and an upper upper outside air channel (63b) are formed. The lower outside air channel (63a) and the upper outside air channel (63b) communicate with each other. The lower outside air flow path (63a) communicates with the outside air inflow path (61) through the communication port (62) (see FIG. 3C). An insect filter (26), a pleat filter (27), and a reheat heat exchanger (35) are disposed in the lower outside air flow path (63a). The reheat heat exchanger (35) is a cross-fin type fin-and-tube heat exchanger.

  The lower outside air flow path (63a) is provided with an outside air humidity sensor (113), a first outside air temperature sensor (114), and a second outside air temperature sensor (115). The outside air humidity sensor (113) and the first outside air temperature sensor (114) are arranged on the upstream side of the reheat heat exchanger (35). The outdoor air humidity sensor (113) measures the relative humidity of the outdoor air before passing through the reheat heat exchanger (35). The first outside air temperature sensor (114) measures the temperature of the outdoor air before passing through the reheat heat exchanger (35). On the other hand, the second outside air temperature sensor (115) is disposed downstream of the reheat heat exchanger (35). The second outside air temperature sensor (115) measures the temperature of the outdoor air after passing through the reheat heat exchanger (35).

  The machine room (60) is formed on the right side of the casing (11). An electrical component box (90), a compressor (31), and a four-way selector valve (32) are arranged in the machine room (60). The electrical component box (90) accommodates a printed circuit board provided with a switching element constituting the inverter, a printed circuit board provided with a microcomputer constituting the controller (100), and the like.

  In the intermediate space (S2), an intermediate outside air flow path (64), an intermediate exhaust flow path (65), a first humidity control chamber (66a), and a second humidity control chamber (66b) are formed. .

  The intermediate outside air flow path (64) is formed along the left side panel (17) of the casing (11) and communicates with the upper outside air flow path (63b). On the other hand, the intermediate exhaust channel (65) is formed along the right side panel (16) of the casing (11) and communicates with the exhaust communication channel (68). The exhaust communication channel (68) extends upward along the right side panel (16) of the casing (11). Further, the exhaust communication channel (68) communicates with the exhaust connection port (18b) through an exhaust chamber (19b) described later (see FIGS. 3D and 4A).

  The first humidity control chamber (66a) and the second humidity control chamber (66b) are provided between the intermediate external air flow path (64) and the intermediate exhaust flow path (65) to the intermediate external air flow path (64) and the intermediate exhaust flow path ( 65) is a space formed over the upper side. The first humidity control chamber (66a) is formed near the front panel (14) of the casing (11), and the second humidity control chamber (66b) is formed near the rear panel (15) of the casing (11). .

  A first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) is accommodated in the first humidity control chamber (66a), and a second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) is accommodated in the second humidity adjustment chamber (66b). Each of the adsorption heat exchangers (33a, 33b) is obtained by carrying an adsorbent on the surface of a cross fin type fin-and-tube heat exchanger. Each adsorption heat exchanger (33a, 33b) is installed in a posture in which air passes vertically. As the adsorbent, zeolite, silica gel, activated carbon, an organic polymer material having a hydrophilic functional group, or the like is used. Moreover, as an adsorbent, you may use the material (what is called a sorbent) which has the function not only to adsorb | suck moisture but to absorb moisture.

  A first damper (D1) and a second damper (D2) are attached side by side to the outside air damper partition plate (45a) that partitions the intermediate outside air flow path (64) and the humidity control chambers (66a, 66b). The first damper (D1) intermittently connects between the first humidity control chamber (66a) and the intermediate outside air flow path (64). The second damper (D2) intermittently connects between the second humidity control chamber (66b) and the intermediate outside air flow path (64).

  A third damper (D3) and a fourth damper (D4) are attached side by side to the exhaust damper partition plate (45b) that partitions the intermediate exhaust passage (65) and the humidity control chambers (66a, 66b). The third damper (D3) intermittently connects between the first humidity control chamber (66a) and the intermediate exhaust passage (65). The fourth damper (D4) intermittently connects between the second humidity control chamber (66b) and the intermediate exhaust passage (65).

  In the upper space (S3), an indoor air supply chamber (19a), an outdoor exhaust chamber (19b), an outdoor air suction chamber (19c), and an indoor air suction chamber (19d) are formed. The indoor air supply chamber (19a) communicates with the air supply connection port (18a), the outdoor exhaust chamber (19b) communicates with the exhaust connection port (18b), and the outdoor air suction chamber (19c) communicates with the external air connection port (18c). The room air suction chamber (19d) communicates with the room air connection port (18d). An air supply fan (85) is provided in the indoor air supply chamber (19a). An exhaust fan (88) is provided in the outdoor exhaust chamber (19b).

  In the upper space (S3), an upper inside air channel (69) and an upper air supply channel (70) are formed. The upper inside air flow path (69) is formed adjacent to both the first humidity control chamber (66a) and the second humidity control chamber (66b), and communicates with the inside air suction chamber (19d). The upper air supply channel (70) is formed adjacent to both the first humidity control chamber (66a) and the second humidity control chamber (66b), and communicates with the indoor air supply chamber (19a).

  A fifth damper (D5) and a sixth damper (D6) are mounted side by side on the inside air damper partition plate (48a) that partitions the upper inside air flow path (69) and the humidity control chambers (66a, 66b). The fifth damper (D5) intermittently connects between the first humidity control chamber (66a) and the upper inside air flow path (69). The sixth damper (D6) intermittently connects between the second humidity control chamber (66b) and the upper inside air flow path (69).

  A seventh damper (D7) and an eighth damper (D8) are mounted side by side on the supply damper partition plate (48b) that partitions the upper supply passage (70) and the humidity control chambers (66a, 66b). . The seventh damper (D7) intermittently connects between the first humidity control chamber (66a) and the upper air supply channel (70). The eighth damper (D8) intermittently connects between the second humidity control chamber (66b) and the upper air supply channel (70).

  An inside air humidity sensor (111) is provided in the upper inside air channel (69). The room air humidity sensor (111) measures the relative humidity of the room air before passing through the adsorption heat exchanger (33a, 33b).

<Refrigerant circuit>
The humidity control apparatus (10) includes a refrigerant circuit (30) provided with the above-described compressor (31) and adsorption heat exchanger (33a, 33b). The refrigerant circuit (30) will be described with reference to FIG.

Refrigerant circuit (30) is a closed circuit which the refrigerant is charged, it performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant circuit (30) includes a compressor (31), a four-way switching valve (32), a first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), a second adsorption heat exchanger (33b), and a bridge circuit (36a). And a one-way circuit (36) and a reheat circuit (36c).

  In the refrigerant circuit (30), the discharge pipe (31a) of the compressor (31) is connected to the first port of the four-way switching valve (32), and the suction pipe (31b) of the compressor (31) is connected to the four-way switching valve (32). ) To the third port. In the refrigerant circuit (30), the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), the bridge circuit (36a), and the second adsorption heat are sequentially arranged from the second port to the fourth port of the four-way switching valve (32). An exchanger (33b) is arranged.

  The bridge circuit (36a) is a circuit in which four check valves (CV-1, CV-2, CV-3, CV-4) are connected in a bridge shape. In the bridge circuit (36a), the inflow side of the first check valve (CV-1) and the outflow side of the second check valve (CV-2) are connected, and the outflow side of the first check valve (CV-1) Is connected to the outflow side of the third check valve (CV-3), and the inflow side of the third check valve (CV-3) is connected to the outflow side of the fourth check valve (CV-4). The inflow side of the stop valve (CV-4) and the inflow side of the second check valve (CV-2) are connected. The bridge circuit (36a) is connected between the first check valve (CV-1) and the second check valve (CV-2) to the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), and the third check valve ( The space between CV-3) and the fourth check valve (CV-4) is connected to the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b).

  The one-way circuit (36) is connected to the bridge circuit (36a). Specifically, the one-way circuit (36) has an inlet end connected between the first check valve (CV-1) and the third check valve (CV-3), and an outlet end thereof connected to the second reverse valve. Connect between the check valve (CV-2) and the fourth check valve (CV-4). In the one-way circuit (36), the refrigerant always flows from the inlet end toward the outlet end. The one-way circuit (36) is provided with a first expansion valve (37).

  The reheat circuit (36c) is connected to the one-way circuit (36). The reheat circuit (36c) is provided with a reheat heat exchanger (35) and a second expansion valve (38) in series. The reheat circuit (36c) has one end on the reheat heat exchanger (35) side connected to the upstream side of the first expansion valve (37), and the other end on the second expansion valve (38) side connected to the first expansion valve (37). ) Connect to the downstream side.

  The compressor (31) is a hermetic compressor in which a compression mechanism and an electric motor that drives the compression mechanism are accommodated in one casing. AC is supplied to the electric motor of the compressor (31) through an inverter. When the output frequency of the inverter (that is, the operating frequency of the compressor) is changed, the rotational speed of the electric motor and the compression mechanism driven thereby changes, and the capacity of the compressor (31) changes.

  The four-way switching valve (32) includes a first state (state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 5) in which the first port and the fourth port communicate and the second port and the third port communicate, and the first port and the second port. Are switched to the second state (the state indicated by the broken line in FIG. 5) in which the third port and the fourth port communicate. The first expansion valve (37) and the second expansion valve (38) are variable-opening electronic expansion valves each including a valve body and a pulse motor that drives the valve body.

  The refrigerant circuit (30) is provided with a first refrigerant temperature sensor (116) and a second refrigerant temperature sensor (117). The first refrigerant temperature sensor (116) is attached to the gas-side end of the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) (that is, the end connected to the four-way switching valve (32)), and the refrigerant flowing there Measure the temperature. The second refrigerant temperature sensor (117) is attached to the gas side end of the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) (that is, the end connected to the four-way switching valve (32)), and the refrigerant flowing there Measure the temperature.

  The refrigerant circuit (30) is provided with a high pressure sensor (118) and a low pressure sensor (119). The high pressure sensor (118) is attached to a pipe connecting the discharge pipe (31a) of the compressor (31) and the four-way switching valve (32), and measures the pressure of the high pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (31). The measured value of the high pressure sensor (118) is the high pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30). The low pressure sensor (119) is attached to a pipe connecting the suction pipe (31b) of the compressor (31) and the four-way switching valve (32), and measures the pressure of the low pressure refrigerant sucked into the compressor (31). The measured value of the low pressure sensor (119) is the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30).

<Controller>
The humidity control apparatus (10) includes a controller (100). Measurement values of sensors (111 to 117) provided in the humidity control apparatus (10) are input to the controller (100). The controller (100) controls the operation of the humidity control apparatus (10) using the input measurement values of the sensors (111 to 117).

  As shown in FIG. 5, the controller (100) includes a compressor controller (101) and an expansion valve controller (102). The compressor control unit (101) controls the rotational speed of the compressor (31) by adjusting the frequency of the alternating current supplied to the compressor (31) (that is, the output frequency of the inverter). That is, the compressor control unit (101) controls the capacity of the compressor (31). On the other hand, an expansion valve control part (102) controls the opening degree of a 1st expansion valve (37) and a 2nd expansion valve (38). The controller (100) operates the four-way switching valve (32) and the dampers (D1 to D8) and controls the rotational speed of the fans (85, 88).

-Driving action-
The operation of the humidity controller (10) will be described. The humidity control apparatus (10) selectively performs a dehumidifying operation for supplying dehumidified air to the room and a humidifying operation for supplying humidified air to the room.

<Dehumidifying operation>
The dehumidifying operation is mainly performed in the summer when the temperature and humidity of the outdoor air are relatively high. During the dehumidifying operation, the humidity control apparatus (10) alternately executes the first operation and the second operation for each predetermined switching time (for example, 180 seconds). That is, in the humidity control apparatus (10), the four-way switching valve (32) operates every time the switching time elapses, and the first operation and the second operation are switched to each other.

  First, the operation of the refrigerant circuit (30) during the dehumidifying operation will be described.

  In the first operation of the dehumidifying operation, in the refrigerant circuit (30), the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functions as a condenser (that is, a radiator), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) serves as an evaporator. Perform a functioning refrigeration cycle. In the refrigerant circuit (30), the four-way selector valve (32) is set to the first state. Further, the controller (100) appropriately adjusts the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37), and holds the second expansion valve (38) in a fully closed state or a slightly opened state. When the compressor (31) is operated, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (31) dissipates heat in the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b), passes through the bridge circuit (36a), and passes through the one-way circuit (36 ). In the one-way circuit (36), the refrigerant is decompressed by the first expansion valve (37). The refrigerant decompressed by the first expansion valve (37) passes through the bridge circuit (36a), evaporates by the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), and is sucked into the compressor (31).

  In the second operation of the dehumidifying operation, in the refrigerant circuit (30), the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functions as a condenser (that is, a radiator), and the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) serves as an evaporator. Perform a functioning refrigeration cycle. In the refrigerant circuit (30), the four-way selector valve (32) is set to the second state. Further, the controller (100) appropriately adjusts the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37), and holds the second expansion valve (38) in a fully closed state or a slightly opened state. When the compressor (31) is operated, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (31) dissipates heat in the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), passes through the bridge circuit (36a), and passes through the one-way circuit (36 ). In the one-way circuit (36), the refrigerant is decompressed by the first expansion valve (37). The refrigerant decompressed by the first expansion valve (37) passes through the bridge circuit (36a), evaporates in the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b), and is sucked into the compressor (31).

  In the dehumidifying operation of the humidity control apparatus (10), the reheat heat exchanger (35) is in a stopped state in which the refrigerant does not substantially flow.

  Next, the flow of air during the dehumidifying operation will be described.

  In the first operation of the dehumidifying operation, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first damper (D1), the fourth damper (D4), the sixth damper (D6), and the seventh damper (D7) are opened. The second damper (D2), the third damper (D3), the fifth damper (D5), and the eighth damper (D8) are closed, and the air supply fan (85) and the exhaust fan (88) are operated. .

  In the first operation of the dehumidifying operation, outdoor air (OA) that flows through the duct and is taken into the outdoor air suction chamber (19c) flows into the lower outdoor air channel (63a) through the outdoor air inflow passage (61). The air flows through the insect filter (26) and the pleat filter (27) in order, and then passes through the reheat heat exchanger (35). In the dehumidifying operation, the reheat heat exchanger (35) is stopped as described above. For this reason, air is not heated in the reheat heat exchanger (35).

  The air that has passed through the reheat heat exchanger (35) flows through the upper outside air passage (63b), the intermediate outside air passage (64), and the first damper (D1) in this order, and then passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a). To do. In the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functioning as an evaporator, water vapor in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the refrigerant absorbs the heat of adsorption generated at that time and evaporates. The air dehumidified by the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) flows through the seventh damper (D7), the upper air supply passage (70), the indoor air supply chamber (19a) in this order, and is supplied to the indoor space through the duct. Supplied as air (SA).

  In the first operation of the dehumidifying operation, the room air (RA) that flows through the indoor duct and is taken into the room air suction chamber (19d) flows in order through the upper room air flow path (69) and the sixth damper (D6). It passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b). In the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functioning as a condenser (that is, a radiator), moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is imparted to the air. The air humidified in the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) flows in order through the fourth damper (D4), the intermediate exhaust passage (65), the exhaust communication passage (68), and the outdoor exhaust chamber (19b). It is discharged as exhaust air (EA) through the outdoor space.

  In the second operation of the dehumidifying operation, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the second damper (D2), the third damper (D3), the fifth damper (D5), and the eighth damper (D8) are opened. The first damper (D1), the fourth damper (D4), the sixth damper (D6), and the seventh damper (D7) are closed, and the air supply fan (85) and the exhaust fan (88) are operated. .

  In the second operation of the dehumidifying operation, outdoor air (OA) that flows through the duct and is taken into the outdoor air suction chamber (19c) flows into the lower outdoor air channel (63a) through the outdoor air inflow passage (61). The air flows through the insect filter (26) and the pleat filter (27) in order, and then passes through the reheat heat exchanger (35). In the dehumidifying operation, the reheat heat exchanger (35) is stopped as described above. For this reason, air is not heated in the reheat heat exchanger (35).

  The air that has passed through the reheat heat exchanger (35) flows through the upper outside air passage (63b), the intermediate outside air passage (64), and the second damper (D2) in this order, and then passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b). To do. In the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functioning as an evaporator, water vapor in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent, and the refrigerant absorbs the heat of adsorption generated at that time and evaporates. The air dehumidified by the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) flows through the eighth damper (D8), the upper air supply channel (70), the indoor air supply chamber (19a) in this order, and is supplied to the indoor space through the duct. Supplied as air (SA).

  In the second operation of the dehumidifying operation, the room air (RA) that flows through the indoor duct and is taken into the room air suction chamber (19d) flows in order through the upper room air flow path (69) and the fifth damper (D5). It passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a). In the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functioning as a condenser, moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is given to the air. The air humidified in the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) passes through the third damper (D3) and passes through the intermediate exhaust passage (65), the exhaust communication passage (68), and the outdoor exhaust chamber (19b) in this order. It flows and is discharged as exhaust air (EA) to the outdoor space through the duct.

<Humidification operation>
The humidification operation is mainly performed in the winter when the temperature and humidity of the outdoor air are relatively low. During the humidifying operation, the humidity control apparatus (10) alternately performs the first operation and the second operation for each predetermined switching time (for example, 210 seconds). That is, in the humidity control apparatus (10), the four-way switching valve (32) operates every time the switching time elapses, and the first operation and the second operation are switched to each other.

  First, the operation of the refrigerant circuit (30) during the humidifying operation will be described.

  In the first operation of the humidifying operation, in the refrigerant circuit (30), the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functions as a condenser (that is, a radiator), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) serves as an evaporator. Perform a functioning refrigeration cycle. In the refrigerant circuit (30), the four-way selector valve (32) is set to the first state. In addition, when the refrigerant is allowed to flow to the reheat heat exchanger (35), the controller (100) holds the first expansion valve (37) in a fully closed state and appropriately adjusts the opening degree of the second expansion valve (38). To do. When the compressor (31) is operated, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (31) dissipates heat in the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b), passes through the bridge circuit (36a), and reheats the circuit (36c). Flowing. In the reheat circuit (36c), the high-pressure refrigerant flows through the reheat heat exchanger (35), and the refrigerant radiates heat to the outdoor air (OA). The refrigerant radiated by the reheat heat exchanger (35) is decompressed by the second expansion valve (38). The refrigerant decompressed by the second expansion valve (38) passes through the bridge circuit (36a), evaporates in the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), and is sucked into the compressor (31).

  In the second operation of the humidifying operation, in the refrigerant circuit (30), the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functions as a condenser (that is, a radiator), and the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) serves as an evaporator. Perform a functioning refrigeration cycle. In the refrigerant circuit (30), the four-way selector valve (32) is set to the second state. In addition, when the refrigerant is allowed to flow to the reheat heat exchanger (35), the controller (100) holds the first expansion valve (37) in a fully closed state and appropriately adjusts the opening degree of the second expansion valve (38). To do. When the compressor (31) is operated, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (31) dissipates heat in the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a), passes through the bridge circuit (36a), and reheats the circuit (36c). Flowing. In the reheat circuit (36c), the high-pressure refrigerant flows through the reheat heat exchanger (35), and the refrigerant radiates heat to the outdoor air (OA). The refrigerant radiated by the reheat heat exchanger (35) is decompressed by the second expansion valve (38). The refrigerant decompressed by the second expansion valve (38) passes through the bridge circuit (36a), evaporates in the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b), and is sucked into the compressor (31).

  As described above, during the humidification operation, the refrigerant may be supplied to the reheat circuit (36c), and the refrigerant may flow through the reheat heat exchanger (35). The heating capacity of the reheat heat exchanger (35) is adjusted by controlling the opening degree of the second expansion valve (38). Further, when the temperature of the outdoor air (OA) becomes higher than a predetermined temperature during the humidifying operation, the controller (100) appropriately adjusts the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37), and the second expansion valve. (38) is held in a fully closed state or slightly opened state. In this case, the reheat heat exchanger (35) is stopped.

  Next, the flow of air during the humidifying operation will be described.

  In the first operation of the humidifying operation, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the second damper (D2), the third damper (D3), the fifth damper (D5), and the eighth damper (D8) are opened. The first damper (D1), the fourth damper (D4), the sixth damper (D6), and the seventh damper (D7) are closed, and the air supply fan (85) and the exhaust fan (88) are operated. .

  In the first operation of the humidification operation, outdoor air (OA) that flows through the duct and is taken into the outdoor air suction chamber (19c) flows into the lower outdoor air channel (63a) through the outdoor air inflow passage (61). The air flows through the insect filter (26) and the pleat filter (27) in order, and then passes through the reheat heat exchanger (35). In the humidification operation, a refrigerant is appropriately supplied to the reheat heat exchanger (35), and the outdoor air (OA) is heated by the reheat heat exchanger (35).

  The air heated by the reheat heat exchanger (35) flows through the upper outside air passage (63b), the intermediate outside air passage (64), and the second damper (D2) in this order, and passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b). pass. In the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functioning as a condenser, moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is given to the air. The air humidified by the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) flows through the eighth damper (D8), the upper air supply channel (70), the indoor air supply chamber (19a) in this order, and is supplied to the indoor space through the duct. Supplied as air (SA).

  In the first operation of the humidification operation, the room air (RA) that flows through the indoor duct and is taken into the room air suction chamber (19d) flows in order through the upper room air flow path (69) and the fifth damper (D5). It passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a). In the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functioning as an evaporator, water vapor in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air deprived of moisture by the adsorbent of the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) consists of the third damper (D3), the intermediate exhaust passage (65), the exhaust communication passage (68), and the outdoor exhaust chamber (19b). In order, and is discharged as exhaust air (EA) through the duct to the outdoor space.

  In the second operation of the humidifying operation, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first damper (D1), the fourth damper (D4), the sixth damper (D6), and the seventh damper (D7) are opened. The second damper (D2), the third damper (D3), the fifth damper (D5), and the eighth damper (D8) are closed, and the air supply fan (85) and the exhaust fan (88) are operated. .

  In the second operation of the humidification operation, outdoor air (OA) that flows through the duct and is taken into the outdoor air suction chamber (19c) flows into the lower outdoor air channel (63a) through the outdoor air inflow passage (61). The air flows through the insect filter (26) and the pleat filter (27) in order, and then passes through the reheat heat exchanger (35). In the humidification operation, a refrigerant is appropriately supplied to the reheat heat exchanger (35), and the outdoor air (OA) is heated by the reheat heat exchanger (35).

  The air heated by the reheat heat exchanger (35) flows through the upper outside air passage (63b), the intermediate outside air passage (64), and the first damper (D1) in this order, and passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a). pass. In the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functioning as a radiator, moisture desorbed from the adsorbent is imparted to the air. The air humidified by the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) flows in order through the seventh damper (D7), the upper air supply channel (70), and the indoor air supply chamber (19a), and is supplied to the indoor space through the duct. Supplied as air (SA).

  In the second operation of the humidifying operation, the room air (RA) that flows through the indoor duct and is taken into the room air suction chamber (19d) flows in order through the upper room air flow path (69) and the sixth damper (D6). It passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b). In the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functioning as an evaporator, water vapor in the air is adsorbed by the adsorbent. The air deprived of moisture by the adsorbent of the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) is the fourth damper (D4), the intermediate exhaust passage (65), the exhaust communication passage (68), the outdoor exhaust chamber (19b) In order, and is discharged as exhaust air (EA) through the duct to the outdoor space.

<Control of compressor by controller>
As described above, the compressor control unit (101) of the controller (100) performs an operation of adjusting the capacity of the compressor (31). The operation performed by the compressor control unit (101) will be described.

  The compressor control unit (101) determines the capacity (that is, the required capacity) of the compressor (31) necessary for causing the humidity control apparatus (10) to exhibit the humidity control capacity corresponding to the humidity control load. Specifically, the compressor control unit (101) determines whether the humidity control capacity is excessive or insufficient based on the measured values of the humidity sensors (111, 113) and the outside air temperature sensor (114, 115), the set value of the humidity of the indoor air, and the like. Then, the rotational speed (required rotational speed N) of the compressor (31) is determined so that the humidity control apparatus (10) exhibits the humidity control capability commensurate with the humidity control load. The required rotational speed N of the compressor (31) is the required capacity of the compressor (31). The compressor control unit (101) updates the required rotational speed N, for example, every 10 minutes.

  The compressor control unit (101) performs a switching preparation operation when the difference ΔP between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle exceeds the reference pressure during the execution of the first operation and the second operation. The operation of the compressor control unit (101) will be described with reference to FIG.

As described above, in the refrigerant circuit (30), the four-way switching valve (32) operates every time a predetermined switching time elapses. In FIG. 10, the four-way selector valve at time t ₁₀ (32) is switched from the second state to the first state, the four-way selector valve at time t ₂₀ (32) is switched from a first state to a second state, the time t four-way switching valve in ₃₀ (32) is switched from the second state to the first state, the four-way selector valve at time t ₄₀ (32) is switched from a first state to a second state, at time t ₅₀ the four-way selector valve ( 32) switches from the second state to the first state.

For example, when the first operation starts at time t ₁₀ , the compressor control unit (101) holds the rotational speed of the compressor (31) at the required rotational speed N. Then, the next time becomes four-way switching valve (32) is the first predetermined time than the time t ₂₀ Delta] t ₁ only before time t ₁₂ to operate, the compressor control section (101), a pressure difference ΔP between the reference pressure comparing To do. Specifically, the compressor control section (101) calculates the pressure difference [Delta] P by subtracting the measured value P _L of the low-pressure sensor (119) from the measured value P _H of the high pressure sensor (118) ([Delta] P = P _H - P _L ), it is determined whether or not the calculated pressure difference ΔP exceeds the reference pressure. The first predetermined time Δt ₁ is set to 20 seconds, for example, and the reference pressure is set to 1.5 MPa, for example.

If the pressure difference ΔP at time t ₁₂ is the reference pressure or less, the compressor control section (101) continues to hold the rotational speed of the compressor (31) to the required rotational speed N. In this case, even after passing the time t ₁₂ the rotational speed of the compressor (31) is held in the required rotational speed N, at time t ₂₀ the four-way selector valve (32) is switched from the first state to the second state .

On the other hand, when the pressure difference ΔP at time t ₁₂ exceeds the reference pressure, the compressor control section (101) performs the switching preparatory operation. Specifically, the compressor control unit (101) starts an operation for reducing the rotational speed of the compressor (31) from the required rotational speed N to the switching rotational speed N ′. The difference ΔN (= N−N ′) between the requested rotational speed N and the switching rotational speed N ′ is set to 22 rps (22 revolutions per second), for example. Since the compression mechanism provided in the compressor (31) and the rotor of the electric motor have a certain amount of mass, their rotational speed cannot be changed instantaneously. Therefore, the rotational speed of the compressor (31) begins to gradually decrease from the time t _12, the switching speed N 'time t ₁₃ after Delta] t ₃ seconds. Then, the compressor control section (101), then between times t ₂₀ to the four-way selector valve (32) is activated, it holds the rotational speed of the compressor (31) to the switching rotation speed N '.

Four-way selector valve (32) when switched from a first state to a second state at time t _20, the compressor control section (101), the required rotational rotational speed of the compressor (31) from the switching speed N ' The operation for returning to the speed N is started. As described above, it takes some time to change the rotational speed of the compressor (31). Therefore, the rotational speed of the compressor (31) begins to gradually rise from the time t _20, the required rotational speed N at a time t ₂₁ after Delta] t ₃ seconds.

Second operation that started at time t ₂₀ also, the compressor control section (101) performs the same operation as first operation that started at time t _10. In other words, the next time the four-way selector valve (32) reaches the first predetermined time Delta] t ₁ only before time t ₂₂ than than the time t ₃₀ to operate, the compressor control section (101), the reference pressure the pressure difference ΔP Compare with When the pressure difference ΔP is equal to or less than the reference pressure, the compressor control unit (101) holds the rotational speed of the compressor (31) at the required rotational speed N. On the other hand, when the pressure difference ΔP exceeds the reference pressure, the compressor control unit (101) performs a switching preparation operation. That is, the compressor control section (101), over a period Delta] t ₃ seconds pulled compressor (31) rotational speed required rotational speed N from the switching speed N 'to the time t _22, then the next four-way selector valve (32) holds the rotational speed switching rotational speed N 'of the compressor (31) to time t ₃₀ to operate. Then, the four-way selector valve (32) when switched from the second state to the first state at time t _30, the compressor control section (101), the rotation of the compressor (31) from the time t ₃₀ over Delta] t ₃ seconds The speed is returned from the rotational speed N ′ during switching to the required rotational speed N. Thereafter, the compressor control unit (101) repeats the same operation.

<Control of expansion valve by controller>
As described above, the expansion valve control unit (102) of the controller (100) performs an operation of adjusting the opening degrees of the first expansion valve (37) and the second expansion valve (38). The operation performed by the expansion valve control unit (102) will be described.

  During the dehumidifying operation, the expansion valve control unit (102) adjusts the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) and holds the second expansion valve (38) in a fully closed state or a slightly opened state. Here, the operation in which the expansion valve controller (102) adjusts the opening of the first expansion valve (37) during the dehumidifying operation will be described with reference to FIG.

Time The t _10, operates the four-way selector valve (32), operation of the humidity control apparatus (10) is switched to the first operation from the second operation. Expansion valve control section (102) stores the degree of opening of the first expansion valve at time t ₁₀ to the second operation is completed (37).

When the first operation is started at time t _10, the expansion valve control section (102), then the four-way selector valve (32) earlier by the second predetermined time Delta] t ₂ than than the time t ₂₀ to operate the time t ₁₄ Until the first expansion valve (37) is kept open. Then, past the time t _14, the expansion valve control section (102), as the degree of superheat SH of the refrigerant at the outlet of the first adsorption heat exchanger functioning as an evaporator (33a) becomes a predetermined target degree of superheat The opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) is adjusted. Note that the second predetermined time Δt ₂ is set to 12 seconds, for example.

  At that time, the expansion valve control unit (102) calculates the superheat degree SH of the refrigerant using the measured value of the first refrigerant temperature sensor (116) and the measured value of the low pressure sensor (119). If the calculated superheat degree SH is higher than the target superheat degree, the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) is increased. If the calculated superheat degree SH is lower than the target superheat degree, the first expansion valve (37) is opened. Reduce the degree.

When the first operation the four-way selector valve (32) is actuated at time t ₂₀ to end, the expansion valve control section (102) stores the degree of opening of the first expansion valve at time t ₂₀ (37).

When the second operation is started at time t _20, the expansion valve control section (102), the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37), is changed to the opening degree at time t ₁₀ to the second operation of the previous time is completed, Hold at that opening. In addition, when changing the opening degree of a 1st expansion valve (37), the valve body is driven by a pulse motor. Therefore, the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) does not change instantaneously but gradually changes over a period of time.

Expansion valve control section (102), then the four-way selector valve (32) is between until the second predetermined time than the than the time t ₃₀ Delta] t ₂ only before time t ₂₄ to operate, the first expansion valve ( Keep the opening of 37) constant. Then, past the time t _24, the expansion valve control section (102), as the degree of superheat SH of the refrigerant at the outlet of the second adsorption heat exchanger functioning as an evaporator (33b) becomes a predetermined target degree of superheat The opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) is adjusted.

  At that time, the expansion valve control unit (102) calculates the superheat degree SH of the refrigerant using the measured value of the second refrigerant temperature sensor (117) and the measured value of the low pressure sensor (119). If the calculated superheat degree SH is higher than the target superheat degree, the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) is increased. If the calculated superheat degree SH is lower than the target superheat degree, the first expansion valve (37) is opened. Reduce the degree.

When the second operation the four-way selector valve (32) is actuated at time t ₃₀ to end, the expansion valve control section (102) stores the degree of opening of the first expansion valve at time t ₃₀ (37). Further, when the first operation is started at time t _30, the expansion valve control section (102), a first expansion valve the opening of (37), changes the degree of opening at the time t ₂₀ to the first operation of the previous time is completed And hold at that opening. Thereafter, the expansion valve control unit (102) repeats the same operation.

By the way, in the controller (100) of this embodiment, the first predetermined time Δt ₁ is longer than the second predetermined time Δt ₂ . Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10, in the first operation started at time t _10, the switching of the rotational speed the time t ₁₃ of the compressor (31) by the compressor control section (101) for switching preparatory operation when dropped to the rotational speed N ', the expansion valve control unit to the time ₁₄ later than the time t ₁₃ (102) starts opening adjustment of the first expansion valve (37). Similarly, in the second operation started at time t _20, the compressor control section (101) until the switching speed N 'of the rotational speed the time t ₂₃ of the compressor (31) by performing the switching preparatory operation It decreases, the expansion valve control unit to the time ₂₄ later than the time t ₂₃ (102) starts opening adjustment of the first expansion valve (37). As described above, in the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) can be adjusted while the rotational speed of the compressor (31) is maintained at the switching rotational speed N ′. Done.

Even during the humidifying operation, the expansion valve control unit (102) performs the same operation as during the dehumidifying operation. As described above, during the humidification operation, the expansion valve control unit (102) holds the first expansion valve (37) in a fully closed state and adjusts the opening of the second expansion valve (38); An operation of adjusting the opening of the first expansion valve (37) while keeping the second expansion valve (38) in a fully closed state or a minute opening is selectively performed. The expansion valve control unit (102) adjusts the opening degree of the first expansion valve (37) or the second expansion valve (38) in Δt ₂ seconds until the four-way switching valve (32) is operated.

-Effect of the embodiment-
In the humidity control apparatus (10) of the present embodiment, the compressor control unit (101) of the controller (100), when the difference ΔP between the high pressure and low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) exceeds the reference pressure, Performs switchover preparation. For this reason, the rotational speed of the compressor (31) temporarily decreases over the first predetermined time Δt ₁ until the four-way switching valve (32) operates, and the pressure difference ΔP also decreases. This point will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a graph showing fluctuations in the pressure difference ΔP in the refrigerant circuit (30).

Four-way selector valve (32) is actuated at time t _10, the humidity control apparatus (10) is switched to the first operation from the second operation. In this case, at time t _10, the first adsorption heat exchanger functioning as a condenser in the second operation (33a) is connected to the suction pipe of the compressor (31) (31b), the second operation The second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) functioning as an evaporator is connected to the discharge pipe (31a) of the compressor (31). For this reason, the pressure difference ΔP gradually increases after sharply decreasing, as shown by a solid line in FIG.

Since the pressure difference ΔP at time t ₁₂ is greater than 1.5MPa which is a reference pressure, the compressor control section (101) performs the switching preparatory operation. When the compressor control section (101) to initiate a handover preparation operation at time t _12, since the rotational speed of the compressor (31) decreases, the pressure difference ΔP decreases gradually. The pressure difference ΔP is, then the four-way selector valve (32) continues to decrease until time t ₂₀ to operate.

Four-way selector valve (32) is actuated at time t _20, when the humidity control apparatus (10) switches to the second operation from the first operation, the second adsorption heat exchanger which has been functioning as a condenser during the first operation The compressor (33b) is connected to the suction pipe (31b) of the compressor (31), and the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) functioning as an evaporator during the first operation is the discharge pipe of the compressor (31). Connect to (31a). For this reason, the pressure difference ΔP gradually increases after sharply decreasing, as shown by a solid line in FIG.

Since the pressure difference ΔP at time t ₂₂ is greater than 1.5MPa which is a reference pressure, the compressor control section (101) performs the switching preparatory operation. When the compressor control section (101) to initiate a handover preparation operation at time t _22, since the rotational speed of the compressor (31) decreases, the pressure difference ΔP decreases gradually. The pressure difference ΔP is, then the four-way selector valve (32) continues to decrease until time t ₃₀ to operate.

  As described above, when the compressor control unit (101) of the controller (100) executes the switching preparation operation, the pressure difference ΔP at the time when the four-way switching valve (32) is operated is operated by the four-way switching valve (32). As compared with the case where the operating capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant until (until indicated by a broken line in FIG. 10), it becomes smaller. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, fluctuations in the flow direction and flow rate of the refrigerant accompanying the operation of the four-way switching valve (32) can be suppressed, and noise caused by the operation of the four-way switching valve (32) can be reduced. it can.

In the controller (100) of the present embodiment, the first predetermined time Δt ₁ is longer than the second predetermined time Δt ₂ . For this reason, even when the compressor control unit (101) executes the switching preparation operation, the compressor (102,) is controlled while the expansion valve control unit (102) adjusts the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38). 31) The rotation speed is kept constant. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) can be adjusted while the rotation speed of the compressor (31) is kept constant, and the expansion valve (37, 38) It is possible to appropriately control the opening degree.

  As described above, the present invention is useful for a humidity control apparatus that includes an adsorption heat exchanger and performs a batch operation.

10 Humidity control device
30 Refrigerant circuit
31 Compressor
32 Four-way selector valve
33a First adsorption heat exchanger
33b Second adsorption heat exchanger
37 Expansion valve
38 Expansion valve
100 controller

Claims (2)

A first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) and a second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) each carrying an adsorbent, a variable capacity compressor (31), an expansion valve (37, 38), and a four-way switching valve (32) and a refrigerant circuit (30) for performing a refrigeration cycle,
By operating the four-way switching valve (32) at predetermined switching times, the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) serves as a heat radiator to humidify the air and the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a). And the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) serves as a radiator to humidify the air and the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) serves as an evaporator. The second operation to dehumidify the air is repeated alternately,
A humidity control apparatus that supplies air that has passed through one of the first adsorption heat exchanger (33a) and the second adsorption heat exchanger (33b) to a room and exhausts air that has passed through the other to the outside,
When the difference between the high pressure and the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle performed by the refrigerant circuit (30) exceeds a predetermined reference pressure, the compressor (31) over a first predetermined time until the four-way switching valve (32) operates. comprising a controller for switching preparatory operation to temporarily reduce the capacity (100),
The controller (100) keeps the capacity of the compressor (31) reduced during the switching preparation operation constant until the four-way switching valve (32) operates,
The controller (100) opens the opening of the expansion valve (37, 38) from the start of the first operation and the second operation until a second predetermined time before the time when the four-way switching valve (32) is activated. Is held constant, and an opening degree control operation is performed to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve (37, 38) during the second predetermined time until the four-way switching valve (32) operates.
The first predetermined time is longer than the second predetermined time;
The controller (100) starts opening adjustment of the expansion valve (37, 38) in a state where the capacity of the compressor (31) is kept constant during the switching preparation operation. Humidity control device characterized by. In claim 1,
The controller (100) determines the compressor (31) according to the humidity control load of the humidity control apparatus from the start of the first operation and the second operation to the start of the switching preparation operation. The humidity control apparatus is characterized in that the capacity of the compressor (31) is made lower than the required capacity during the switching preparation operation.

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