JP6219632B2 - Desiccant air conditioner - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a desiccant air conditioner including two desiccant rotors.

  An air conditioner using two desiccant rotors has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this air conditioner, a first flow path for guiding air from the outside to the indoor space (air conditioning target space) and a second flow path for guiding the air from the indoor space to the outside are provided in the apparatus housing. A first moisture absorption region is provided in the inflow channel portion of the first channel, a first regeneration region is provided in the discharge channel portion of the first channel, and one desiccant rotor (first desiccant rotor) is the first It is disposed across the moisture absorption area and the first regeneration area. In addition, a second moisture absorption region is provided downstream of the first moisture absorption region in the inflow channel portion of the first channel, a second regeneration region is provided in the discharge channel portion of the second channel, and the other desiccant rotor. The (second desiccant rotor) is disposed across the second moisture absorption area and the second regeneration area.

  In this air conditioner, air from the outside flows into the indoor space through the first flow path (the first moisture absorption area, the second moisture absorption area, and the first regeneration area), and the moisture in the air flows through the first flow path. Air that has been absorbed by the hygroscopic material of the first desiccant rotor in the hygroscopic region and is heated is cooled by the first heat exchanger and then fed to the second hygroscopic region. In the second moisture absorption region, moisture in the cooled air is absorbed by the moisture absorbent of the second desiccant rotor in the second moisture absorption region, and the air that has been excessively absorbed and has risen in temperature is cooled by the second heat exchanger. After that, it is fed to the first reproduction area. In the first regeneration zone, the excessively hygroscopic air takes away the moisture absorbed by the hygroscopic material of the first desiccant rotor and the hygroscopic material is regenerated, and the air cooled by the heat of vaporization accompanying the desorption of moisture is The indoor space can be cooled by the cooled air that is discharged into the indoor space.

  In addition, air from the indoor space is discharged to the outside through the second flow path (second regeneration zone), and the air heated by the second heat exchanger during the flow passes through the second desiccant rotor in the second regeneration zone. Moisture absorbed by the hygroscopic material is taken away to regenerate the hygroscopic material, and the air cooled by the heat of vaporization accompanying the desorption of moisture is discharged to the outside.

JP 2008-57953 A

  Such an air conditioner has the following problems to be solved. Air from the outside air flows into the indoor space through the first flow path, and when it flows, small dust, dust, etc. contained in this air are removed from the rotor part of the desiccant rotor (particularly, the first desiccant rotor) (that is, air passes through). If this is used over a long period of time, the rotor may become clogged. When clogging occurs in the rotor portion, the moisture absorption performance of the desiccant rotor is reduced, and the cooling capacity and cooling efficiency of the air conditioner are reduced due to the decrease in moisture absorption.

  In this conventional desiccant air conditioner, air from the outside flows from one side of the first desiccant rotor, passes through the first moisture absorption region, flows downstream, and flows through the first flow path downstream. Is configured to flow from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor and flow through the first regeneration zone, and therefore, dust adhering to the surface of the first desiccant rotor in the first moisture absorption zone, There is a problem that dust and the like are easily peeled off from the first desiccant rotor in the first regeneration area, and the dust and dust that have been peeled flow downstream and flow into the indoor space (air-conditioning target space).

  An object of the present invention is to provide a desiccant air conditioner that can remove small dust, dust and the like adhering to a desiccant rotor by using an air flow.

The desiccant air conditioner according to claim 1 of the present invention includes first and second desiccant rotors for absorbing moisture in the air, and first and second heat exchangers for heat exchange, External air passes through the first flow path through the moisture absorption part of the first desiccant rotor, the first heat exchanger, the moisture absorption part of the second desiccant rotor, the second heat exchanger, and the regeneration part of the first desiccant rotor. And flows into the air-conditioning target space, and a part of the air in the air-conditioning target space flows through the first heat exchanger through the first intermediate branch flow path of the second flow path and is discharged to the outside. Is a desiccant air conditioner that flows through the second heat exchanger and the regeneration portion of the second desiccant rotor through the second intermediate branch channel of the second channel and is discharged to the outside,
External air flows into the hygroscopic section from one side of the first desiccant rotor through the first flow path, and the air flowing through the first flow path flows from the single side of the first desiccant rotor to the regeneration section. Configured to flow into
A flow switching connection flow path and a discharge connection flow path are provided in association with the first desiccant rotor, and the flow switching connection flow path bypasses the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor and the first flow path. The discharge connection flow path connects the upstream side of the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor in the first flow path and the second flow path,
In addition, a feeding connection channel is disposed in relation to the second channel, and the feeding connection channel includes the second channel and the first channel or the flow switching connection channel. connection,
During the cleaning operation, the air that has flowed into the first flow path from the outside flows into the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor through the flow switching connection flow path , and from the air-conditioning target space to the second air flow. The air that has flowed into the flow path passes through the feed connection flow path and flows through the first flow path or the flow switching connection flow path, and then flows into the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the desiccant rotor, and the desiccant The air that has passed through the regeneration unit of the rotor is discharged to the outside through the discharge connection channel and the second channel.

  Further, in the desiccant air conditioner according to claim 2 of the present invention, the first and second flow path switching means are arranged in relation to the flow switching connection flow path, and the discharge connection flow path is related to the flow switching connection flow path. In the normal operation, the first flow path switching means is held in the first switching state, and the air from the upstream side of the first flow path is downstream thereof. The second flow path switching means flows the air that has been held in the first switching state and has passed through the regeneration unit from the one side of the first desiccant rotor to the downstream side of the first flow path, The third flow path switching means is held in the first switching state, and allows air from the upstream side of the first flow path to flow downstream toward the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor, and during the cleaning operation. The first flow path switching means is switched to the second switching state. The air from the upstream side of the first flow path is caused to flow to the flow switching connection flow path, and the second flow path switching means is switched to the second switching state and the air flowing through the flow switching connection flow path is The third flow path switching means flows to the regeneration portion of the 1 desiccant rotor, and the third flow path switching means is switched to the second switching state, and discharges and connects the air that has passed through the regeneration portion from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor. It is made to flow toward the 2nd channel through a channel.

Further, in the desiccant air conditioner according to claim 3 of the present invention, a fourth flow path switching means is disposed in association with the feed connection flow path, and the fourth flow path switching means is operated during normal operation. The air from the upstream side of the second flow path is held in the first switching state, and the air from the upstream side of the second flow path is switched to the second switching state during the cleaning operation. It is made to flow in the above-mentioned feed connection channel.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a desiccant air conditioner comprising: first and second desiccant rotors for absorbing moisture in the air; and first and second heat exchangers for heat exchange. And external air passes through the first flow path to regenerate the moisture absorption part of the first desiccant rotor, the first heat exchanger, the moisture absorption part of the second desiccant rotor, the second heat exchanger, and the first desiccant rotor. And a part of the air in the air-conditioning target space flows through the first heat exchanger through the first intermediate branch flow path of the second flow path and is discharged to the outside. A desiccant air conditioner whose remainder flows through the second heat exchanger and the regeneration part of the second desiccant rotor through the second intermediate branch channel of the second channel and is discharged to the outside,
External air flows into the hygroscopic section from one side of the first desiccant rotor through the first flow path, and the air flowing through the first flow path flows from the single side of the first desiccant rotor to the regeneration section. Configured to flow into
In connection with the first desiccant rotor, a discharge connection flow path is provided, the discharge connection flow path being upstream of the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor in the first flow path and the second flow path. And a feed connection channel is provided in association with the second channel, the feed connection channel being the first desiccant rotor in the second channel and the first channel. Connected to the downstream side of the playback unit,
During the cleaning operation, the air flowing from the air-conditioning target space to the second flow path flows into the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor through the feed connection flow path, and then the discharge connection flow path and the It is characterized by being discharged to the outside through the second flow path.

  According to the desiccant air conditioner according to claim 1 of the present invention, external air flows into the moisture absorption part from one side of the first desiccant rotor through the first flow path, and the air flowing through the first flow path is Since it flows into the regeneration part from this one side of the first desiccant rotor, dust, dust, etc. adhering to the first desiccant rotor are difficult to peel off in the moisture absorption part, and dust, dust, etc. are in the air-conditioned space during normal operation (cooling operation). It is possible to reduce the flow.

Further, during the cleaning operation, air that has flowed from the outside to the first flow path flows into the regeneration unit from the other side of the first desiccant rotor through the flow switching connection flow path, so that the first desiccant rotor is flown by this air flow. Dust, dust, etc. adhering to the air easily peel off, and the removed dust, dust, etc. are discharged together with air through the discharge connection flow path, so that the first desiccant rotor can be cleaned cleanly without polluting the air-conditioning target space. it can.
Further, a feed connection channel that connects the second channel and the first channel (or flow switching connection channel) is provided, and air from the air-conditioning target space is connected to the second channel and the feed connection during the cleaning operation. After being sent to the first flow path (or the flow switching connection flow path) through the flow path, the air from the air-conditioning target space together with the air from the outside passes through the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor from the other surface side. It flows to the second flow path through the discharge connection flow path, thereby increasing the amount of air passing through the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor and effectively removing dust, dust, etc. adhering to the first desiccant rotor. be able to.

  Further, according to the desiccant air conditioner according to claim 2 of the present invention, the first and second flow path switching means are maintained in the first switching state during normal operation. The air flows from the one side of the first desiccant rotor to the downstream side of the first flow path after passing through the regenerating portion. Therefore, the air from the outside can be cooled and fed to the air-conditioned space. Further, during the cleaning operation, the first and second flow path switching means are switched to the second switching state, so that air from the upstream side of the first flow path passes through the flow switching connection flow path and the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor. And after passing through this regeneration section from the other side, it flows to the second flow path through the discharge connection flow path, and therefore, dust, dust, etc. adhering to the first desiccant rotor are removed using air from the outside. Can be discharged to the outside.

Further, according to the desiccant air conditioner according to claim 3 of the present invention, the fourth flow path switching means is held in the first switching state during the air conditioning operation. Since the air is supplied to the downstream side of the air and is switched to the second switching state during the cleaning operation, the air from the air target space is supplied to the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor through the second flow path and the feed connection flow path. be able to.

According to the desiccant air conditioner according to claim 4 of the present invention, the external air flows into the moisture absorption part from one side of the first desiccant rotor through the first flow path, and also flows through the first flow path. Since it flows into the regeneration part from this one side of the first desiccant rotor, it is possible to reduce the flow of dust, dust, etc. into the air-conditioning target space during normal operation, as described above. Also, during the cleaning operation, air from the air-conditioned space flows from the other side of the first desiccant rotor through the second flow path and the feed connection flow path to the regeneration unit. Thus, dust, dust, etc. adhering to the first desiccant rotor can be removed and discharged to the outside.

The figure which shows simply 1st Embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner according to this invention. The figure for demonstrating the flow of the air at the time of normal operation of the desiccant air conditioner of FIG. The figure for demonstrating the flow of the air at the time of the cleaning driving | operation of the desiccant air conditioner of FIG. The block diagram which shows simply the control system of the desiccant air conditioner of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the clogging check in the desiccant air conditioner of FIG. The figure which shows 2nd Embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner according to this invention simply. The figure which shows simply 3rd Embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner according to this invention. The figure which shows simply 4th Embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner according to this invention.

  Hereinafter, various embodiments of a desiccant air conditioner according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment]
First, the desiccant air conditioner of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In FIG. 1, a desiccant air conditioner 2 shown in FIG. 1 includes a first desiccant rotor 4, a first heat exchanger 6 (consisting of a sensible heat exchanger), a second desiccant rotor 8 and a second heat exchanger 10 (sensible heat). It is composed of an exchanger.

  In this embodiment, the desiccant air conditioner 2 includes an external suction part 12, an external discharge part 14, an indoor suction part 16 and an indoor discharge part 18, and air from outside is sucked through the external suction part 12 and is discharged from the air-conditioning target space. Air that has flowed through the desiccant air conditioner 2 is discharged from the external discharge unit 14 to the outside, air from the air-conditioning target space (indoor space) is sucked from the indoor suction unit 16, and air that has flowed from the outside into the desiccant air conditioner 2 Is sent from the indoor discharge unit 18 to the air-conditioning target space (indoor space). For example, a suction duct (not shown) is connected to the indoor suction portion 16, and air in the air-conditioning target space is sucked through the suction duct. In addition, for example, a supply duct (not shown) is connected to the indoor discharge unit 18, and air cooled as described later passes through the supply duct to the air-conditioning target space (one or more indoors). Space).

  In the desiccant air conditioner 2, the air sucked from the outside air suction unit 12 flows to the indoor discharge unit 18 through the first flow path 24 for guiding the air from the outside to the air conditioning target space (indoor space). The air sucked from the suction part 16 flows to the external discharge part 14 through the second flow path 26 for discharging the air from the indoor space to the outside.

  In this embodiment, the first flow path 24 extending from the outside air suction section 12 reaches the second desiccant rotor 8 through the moisture absorption section 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4 and the first heat exchanger 6, and this second desiccant rotor. 8 passes through the hygroscopic section 30 and the second heat exchanger 10, and further passes through the regeneration section 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 to the indoor discharge section 18. Further, the discharge passage 26 extending from the indoor suction portion 16 has its intermediate portion branched into a first intermediate branch passage 32 and a second intermediate branch passage 34, and the first intermediate branch passage 32 has a first heat exchange. The second intermediate branch flow path 34 passes through the second heat exchanger 10 and the regeneration section 36 of the second desiccant rotor 8 through the regenerator 36 of the second desiccant rotor 8. It merges with the downstream side portion of the passage 26 and reaches the external discharge portion 14 through the downstream side portion of the second flow path 26.

  The first and second desiccant rotors 4 and 8 are disk-shaped, and the whole of them is configured, for example, in a honeycomb structure and provided with a large number of air holes, and a hygroscopic material is carried on the surface of these honeycomb structures (for example, , Applied). The first desiccant rotor 4 includes an upstream side portion of the first flow path 24 (specifically, a portion between the outside air suction portion 12 and the first heat exchanger 6 and the first moisture absorption area K1) and its It is disposed across the downstream side portion (specifically, the portion between the second heat exchanger 10 and the indoor discharge portion 18 and the first regeneration zone S1). The part located in the 1st moisture absorption area K1 in the 1st desiccant rotor 4 functions as the moisture absorption part 28, and a moisture absorption material absorbs the water | moisture content contained in air in this moisture absorption part 28. FIG. Further, the portion of the first desiccant rotor 4 that is located in the first regeneration zone S1 functions as the regeneration unit 31. In the regeneration unit 31, moisture that has been absorbed is taken away and the moisture absorbent material is regenerated.

  The first desiccant rotor 4 is drivably coupled to a first drive source 42 composed of, for example, an electric motor. The first desiccant rotor 4 is driven by the first drive source 42 in the direction indicated by the arrow and the first moisture absorption region K1 and the first By being rotated through the one regeneration zone S1, and thus pivoting, moisture in the air is adsorbed in the first adsorption zone K1, and moisture adsorbed in the first regeneration zone S1 is continuously released. .

  The second desiccant rotor 8 is an intermediate portion of the first flow path 24 (specifically, a portion between the first heat exchanger 6 and the second heat exchanger 10 and the second moisture absorption region K2). ) And the second flow path 26 (specifically, the second intermediate branch flow path 34 is located downstream from the second heat exchanger 10 and extends across the second regeneration zone S2). Is done. The part located in the 2nd moisture absorption area K2 in the 2nd desiccant rotor 8 functions as the moisture absorption part 30, and in this moisture absorption part 30, a moisture absorption material absorbs the water | moisture content contained in the air. Further, the portion of the second desiccant rotor 8 located in the second regeneration region S2 functions as the regeneration unit 36. In the regeneration unit 36, moisture absorbed is taken away and the moisture absorbent material is regenerated.

  The second desiccant rotor 8 is drivably coupled to a second drive source 46 composed of, for example, an electric motor. The second desiccant rotor 8 is driven by the second drive source 46 in the direction indicated by the arrow and the second moisture absorption region K2 and the second desiccant rotor 8. 2 Rotating through the regeneration zone S2, and thus rotating, the moisture in the air is adsorbed in the second adsorption zone K2, and the moisture adsorbed in the second regeneration zone S2 is continuously released. .

  The first flow path 24 is provided with a suction blower 50 for sucking external air, and the suction blower 50 is disposed on the upstream side of the moisture absorbing portion 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4. The second flow path 26 is provided with a discharge blower 52 for discharging the air in the air-conditioning target space (indoor space). The discharge blower 52 is connected to the first and second intermediate branch flow paths 32 and 34. It is provided on the upstream side of the branch portion.

  In the desiccant air conditioner 2, the second intermediate branch channel 34 of the second channel 26 (specifically, the portion between the second heat exchanger 10 and the regeneration unit 36 of the second desiccant rotor 8). ) Is provided with a hot water heat exchanger 54 as a heating means. In association with the hot water heat exchanger 54, a heat source device 56 for generating hot water is provided, and the heat source device 56 and the hot water heat exchanger 54 are connected via a hot water circulation channel 58. Is circulated through the hot water circulation channel 58 and the hot water heat exchanger 54. An electric heating means (for example, an electric heater) may be used as the heating means.

  In this desiccant air conditioner 2, the external air flows to the air conditioned space (indoor space) through the first flow path 24, and the air in the air conditioned space (indoor space) flows to the outside through the second flow path 26 and thus flows. In the meantime, the air flowing through the first flow path 24 is cooled as follows, and the generated cooling air is sent to the air-conditioning target space.

  The air sucked into the first flow path 24 through the outside air suction part 12 flows into the first desiccant rotor 4, and the moisture in the air while flowing through the moisture absorption part 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4 in the first moisture absorption part K1. Is adsorbed by the hygroscopic material of the hygroscopic portion 28 and its temperature rises. The dehumidified high-temperature air flows to the first heat exchanger 6, and heat exchange is performed between the air flowing through the first intermediate branch flow path 32 in the first heat exchanger 6, and this heat exchange is performed. As a result, the temperature of the air flowing through the first flow path 24 decreases. Thereafter, the dehumidified air whose temperature has decreased flows into the second desiccant rotor 8 and moisture in the air flows into the hygroscopic material of the hygroscopic part 30 while flowing through the hygroscopic part 30 of the second desiccant rotor 8 in the second hygroscopic region K2. Furthermore, it is adsorbed and excessively absorbed to increase its temperature.

  The excessively dehumidified high-temperature air flows to the second heat exchanger 10, and heat exchange is performed between the air flowing through the second intermediate branch flow path 34 in the second heat exchanger 10. Due to the heat exchange, the temperature of the air in the first flow path 24 decreases, and the air whose temperature has decreased flows into the first desiccant rotor 4. In the first regeneration zone S1, the air dehumidified excessively while it flows through the regeneration unit 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 deprives the moisture adsorbed by the hygroscopic material of the regeneration unit 31 (due to this deprivation of moisture). The dehumidifying material of the first desiccant rotor 4 is regenerated), and the humidity of the air rises due to the deprived moisture, while the air is cooled by the heat of vaporization associated with the desorption of the moisture. The air thus sent is sent from the indoor discharge unit 18 to the air-conditioning target space.

  In addition, while the air sent to the 2nd center branch flow path 34 from the air conditioning object space flows through the 2nd heat exchanger 10 as mentioned above, it heats with the air which flows through the 1st flow path 24. The heated air is further heated by the heat exchange with the hot water flowing from the heat source device 56 through the hot water circulation line 58 in the hot water heat exchanger 54, and thus heated. Air flows to the second desiccant rotor 8. In the second regeneration zone S2, the warmed air deprives the moisture adsorbed by the moisture absorbent of the second desiccant rotor 8 while flowing through the regeneration unit 36 of the second desiccant rotor 8, thereby The hygroscopic material of the 2-desiccant rotor 8 is regenerated, and the air containing the moisture is discharged to the outside through the second flow path 26.

  The desiccant air conditioner 2 is configured as follows in order to clean the first desiccant rotor 4 using the air flow. In relation to the first desiccant rotor 4, a flow switching connection flow path 62 is provided to bypass the regeneration unit 31. One end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62 is connected to the upstream side of the regeneration unit 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 in the first flow path 24, and the other end side is the first desiccant rotor 4 in the first flow path 12. Is connected to the downstream side of the reproduction unit 31. In this embodiment, a first flow path switching means 64 is disposed at a connection portion between one end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62 and the first flow path 24, and the other end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62. A second flow path switching means 66 is provided at the connection between the first flow path 24 and the first flow path 24.

  Further, a discharge connection channel 68 that connects the first channel 24 and the second channel 26 is provided in association with the first desiccant rotor 4. One end side of the discharge connection channel 68 is connected to the upstream side of the regeneration unit 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 in the first channel 24, and the other end side is connected to the second channel 26 (specifically, the first channel The intermediate branch channel 32 and the second intermediate branch channel 34 are connected to the downstream portion of the junction. In this embodiment, the third flow path switching means 70 is disposed at the connection portion between the one end side of the discharge connection flow path 68 and the first flow path 24.

  Further, in relation to the second flow path 26, a feed connection flow path 72 for feeding air from the second flow path 26 to the first flow path 24 side is provided. One end side of the feed connection flow path 72 is connected to the second flow path 26 (specifically, a portion between the discharge fan 52 and the branch portions of the first and second intermediate branch flow channels 32 and 34). The other end side is connected to the flow switching connection flow path 62. In relation to the feed connection flow path 72, a fourth flow path switching means 74 is provided. The fourth flow path switching means 74 is connected to the second flow path 26 and one end side of the feed connection flow path 72. It is arranged at the connection part.

  The other end side of the feed connection flow path 72 is upstream of the first flow path switching means 64 in the first flow path 24 (specifically, the second heat exchanger 10 and the first flow path switching). A portion between the first 64 and the second flow path switching means 66 in the first flow path 24 (specifically, the regeneration region 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 and the second flow path switching means 66). May be connected to a portion between the two.

  Referring also to FIGS. 2 and 3, each of first to fourth flow path switching means 64, 66, 70, 74 is constituted by a flow path switching valve, for example, and is switched to the first and second switching states. . The first flow path switching means 64 communicates the upstream side and the downstream side of the first flow path 24 when in the first switching state (see FIG. 2), and upstream of the first flow path 24 when in the second switching state. The side and the one end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62 are communicated (see FIG. 3). The second channel switching means 66 communicates the upstream side and the downstream side of the first channel 24 in the first switching state (see FIG. 2), and the upstream side of the first channel 24 in the second switching state. And the other end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62 are communicated (see FIG. 3). The third flow path switching means 70 communicates the upstream side and the downstream side of the first flow path 24 in the first switching state (see FIG. 2), and the first flow path 24 in the second switching state. Are connected to one end side of the discharge connection flow path 68 (see FIG. 3). Further, the fourth flow path switching means 74 communicates the upstream side of the second flow path 26 with the downstream side in the first switching state (see FIG. 2), and the second flow path 26 in the second switching state. The upstream side communicates with one end side of the feed connection flow path 72 (see FIG. 3).

  The desiccant air conditioner 2 is further configured as follows to detect a clogged state of the first desiccant rotor 4. With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 together with FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the first temperature detecting means 76 and the first temperature upstream of the first moisture absorption area K1 of the first flow path 24 as viewed in the flow direction of the intake air. Humidity detection means 78 is provided. The first temperature detection means 76 detects the temperature of the inflow side air flowing into the moisture absorption part 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4, and the first humidity detection means 78 detects the humidity (relative humidity) of the inflow side air. .

  In addition, a second temperature detection means 80 and a second humidity detection means 82 are disposed on the downstream side of the first moisture absorption area K1 of the first flow path 24 as viewed in the flow direction of the intake air. The second temperature detection means 80 detects the temperature of the outflow side air flowing out from the hygroscopic portion 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4, and the second humidity detection means 82 detects the humidity (relative humidity) of the outflow side air. .

  Detection signals from the first and second temperature detection means 76, 80 and the first and second humidity detection means 78, 82 are sent to the controller 84, and the controller 84 performs the first desiccant rotor based on these detection signals. 4 is detected. The illustrated controller 84 includes, for example, a microprocessor, and includes an absolute humidity calculating unit 86, an absolute humidity difference calculating unit 88, a clogging determining unit 90, an operation switching signal generating unit 92, and an operation control unit 94. The absolute humidity calculating means 86 calculates the absolute humidity (x1) of the inflow side air based on the detected temperature of the first temperature detecting means 76 and the detected humidity of the first humidity detecting means 78, and the second temperature detecting means 80 Based on the detected temperature and the detected humidity of the second humidity detecting means 82, the absolute humidity (x2) of the outflow side air is detected. Further, the absolute humidity difference calculating means 88 is a humidity difference (Δx) (Δx = x1−x2) between the absolute humidity (x1) of the inflow side air and the absolute humidity (x2) of the outflow side air, in other words, the first moisture absorption region. The amount of moisture absorbed by the first desiccant rotor 4 at K1 is calculated, and the clogging determining means 90 determines the occurrence of clogging as described later based on this absolute humidity difference (Δx). Further, the operation switching signal generating means 92 generates an operation switching signal for switching from the normal operation (air conditioning operation) to the cleaning operation and from the cleaning operation to the normal operation as described later. The first and second drive sources 42, 46, the suction blower 50, the discharge blower 52, the first to fourth flow path switching means 64, 66.70, 74 and the like are controlled.

  The controller 84 further includes an integration timer 96 and memory means 98. The integration timer 96 measures the integrated operation time of the desiccant air conditioner 2, and a clogging check described later is executed every time the integration timer 96 reaches 100 hours, for example. The memory means 98 stores the accumulated operation time for executing the clogging check (in this embodiment, 100 hours, 200 hours, 300 hours,...), And a determination criterion as a reference for occurrence of clogging. The value, the operation time of the cleaning operation, and the like are stored.

  In association with the controller 84, cleaning operation display means 100 is provided. The cleaning operation display means 88 is composed of, for example, an LED lamp (not shown), and the operation control means 94 turns on the cleaning operation display means 88 during the cleaning operation to notify that the cleaning operation is in progress.

  Next, switching to the cleaning operation in the desiccant air conditioner 2 will be described. Referring mainly to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, when a power switch (not shown) of the desiccant air conditioner 2 is turned on (closed), the process proceeds from step S1 to step S2, and the desiccant air conditioner 2 is activated. The first to fourth channel switching means 64, 66, 70, 74 are held in the first switching state (see FIG. 2), and are cooled as described above while the external air flows through the first channel 24. The cooling operation is performed, and the integration timer 96 is activated to integrate the operation time (step S3). And when the integration time of this integration timer 96 reaches the time of the clogging check (for example, reaches 100 hours, 200 hours, 300 hours,... From the start of use of the desiccant air conditioner 2), step S4 is followed by step S5. Then, the clogging check of the first desiccant rotor 4 is performed.

  In checking the clogged state, the absolute humidity of the inflow side air and the outflow side air is calculated (step S6). That is, the first temperature detection means 76 detects the temperature of the inflow side air flowing into the first moisture absorption area S1, the first humidity detection means 78 detects the humidity of the inflow side air, and the absolute humidity calculation means 86 detects these. Based on the temperature and the detected humidity, the absolute humidity (x1) of the inflow side air is calculated. Further, the second temperature detection means 80 detects the temperature of the outflow side air flowing out from the first moisture absorption area S1, the second humidity detection means 82 detects the humidity of the outflow side air, and the absolute humidity calculation means 86 detects these. Based on the temperature and the detected humidity, the absolute humidity (x2) of the outflow side air is calculated.

  Then, based on the absolute humidity (x1) of the inflow side air and the absolute humidity (x2) of the outflow side air, the absolute humidity difference calculation means 88 performs the absolute humidity difference (Δx) of the air flowing through the hygroscopic portion 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4. = X1-x2) is calculated (step S7), and the absolute humidity difference (Δx) is the amount of moisture absorbed by the moisture absorbing portion 28 of the first desiccant rotor 4.

  Thereafter, the occurrence of clogging is determined based on the absolute humidity difference (Δx) (step S8), and it is determined whether the absolute humidity difference (Δx) is larger than the determination reference value (xt) (Δx> xt). Done. When the absolute humidity difference (Δx) is larger than the determination reference value (xt) (Δx> xt), it means that the moisture absorption amount of the first desiccant rotor 4 has hardly decreased. The process proceeds from step S8 to step S9 to step S10, where the clogging determination means 90 determines that there is no clogging in the first desiccant rotor 4 and determines that there is no clogging. This check is finished.

  Further, when the absolute humidity difference (Δx) is equal to or less than the determination reference value (xt) (Δx ≦ xt), the moisture absorption amount of the first desiccant rotor 4 is reduced due to adhesion of dust, dust, and the like. In such a case, the process proceeds from step S8 to step S9 to step S12, and the clogging determination means 90 determines that “clogging has occurred” because the first desiccant rotor 4 is clogged. Proceeding to S13, the clogging state check is completed.

  If it is determined in the clogging check that “clogging has occurred”, the process proceeds to step S14, where the operation switching signal generation unit 92 generates an operation switching signal, and the controller 84 performs normal operation (that is, cooling) based on this operation switching signal. The operation is switched from the operation) to the cleaning operation, and the first desiccant rotor 4 is cleaned (step S15).

  In this cleaning operation, the first and second drive sources 42 and 46 are driven (that is, the first and second desiccant rotors 4 and 8 are rotated in a predetermined direction), and the suction blower 50 and the discharge blower 52 are operated. In this state, the operation control means 94 changes the first to fourth flow path switching means 64, 66, 70, 74 from the first switching state (the state shown in FIG. 2) to the second switching state (the state shown in FIG. 3). ). That is, the first flow path switching means 64 communicates the upstream side of the first flow path 24 and one end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62, and the second flow path switching means 66 is connected to the flow switching connection flow path 62. The other end side communicates with the first flow path 24, and the third flow path switching means 70 communicates the downstream side of the first flow path 12 with one end side of the discharge connection flow path 68, and the fourth flow path switching. The means 74 communicates the upstream side of the second flow path 26 with the feed connection flow path 72.

  Therefore, in this cleaning operation, the air that has flowed into the first flow path 24 from the outside flows into the flow switching connection flow path 62 through the first flow path 24 and flows into the second flow path 26 from the air-conditioning target space. The air flows through the second flow path 26 and the feed connection flow path 72 to the flow switching connection flow path 62, and the air flowing through the flow switching connection flow path 62 is in the opposite direction to that during normal operation (cooling operation). The regenerative portion 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 flows from the other surface side toward the one surface side, and dust, dust, etc. adhering to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 are removed during the flow, and the cleaning is performed. At this time, the air flowing into the first flow path 24 from the outside and the air flowing into the second flow path 26 from the air-conditioning target space flow through the regeneration unit 31 of the desiccant rotor 4, so that the flow rate of the air is large. Dust and dust can be effectively removed by the flow. The air that has passed through the regeneration unit 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 flows to the second flow path 26 through the first flow path 24 and the discharge connection flow path 68, and is discharged to the outside through the second flow path 26. During the cleaning operation, the operation control means 94 activates the cleaning operation display means 100 to notify that effect.

  This cleaning operation is continuously performed for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 hours). When the first desiccant rotor 4 is cleaned for a predetermined time, the process proceeds from step S16 to step S17, and the operation switching signal generating unit 92 is activated. An operation switching signal is generated, and the cleaning operation is switched to the normal operation (cooling operation) based on the operation switching signal, whereby the cleaning operation is completed and the cooling operation is restarted (step S18).

  In this cooling operation, the operation control means 94 changes the first to fourth flow path switching means 64, 66, 70, 74 from the second switching state (state shown in FIG. 3) to the first switching state (shown in FIG. 2). The first flow path switching means 64 communicates the upstream side of the first flow path 24 and its downstream side, and the second flow path switching means 66 is connected to the upstream side of the first flow path 24 and its The third flow path switching means 70 communicates with the upstream side of the first flow path 12 and its downstream side, and the fourth flow path switching means 74 communicates with the upstream side of the second flow path 26. Therefore, the air from the outside flows through the first flow path 24 and is cooled and then supplied to the air-conditioning target space, and from the air-conditioning target space, as described above. The air is discharged outside through the second flow path 26 (the first intermediate branch flow path 32 and the second intermediate branch flow path 34).

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner will be described with reference to FIG. In the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those in the first embodiment described above, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 6, in the desiccant air conditioner 2 </ b> A of the second embodiment, in relation to the first desiccant rotor 4, a flow switching connection flow path 62 is provided to bypass the regeneration unit 31, and A discharge connection flow path 68 that connects the first flow path 24 and the second flow path 26 is provided. Further, a first flow path switching means 64 is disposed at a connection portion between one end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62 and the first flow path 24, and the other end side of the flow switching connection flow path 62 is connected to the first flow path. The second flow path switching means 66 is provided at the connection portion with the path 24, and the third flow path switching means 70 is disposed at the connection portion between the one end side of the discharge connection flow path 68 and the first flow path 24. It is installed. The flow switching connection flow path 62, the discharge connection flow path 68, and the first to third flow path switching means 64, 66, 70 may have substantially the same configuration as that of the first embodiment described above, and this second implementation. In the embodiment, the feed connection flow path 72 and the fourth flow path switching means 74 related thereto in the first embodiment are omitted. In FIG. 6, the first and second temperature detecting means and the first and second humidity detecting means are omitted.

  Also in the second embodiment, the first to third flow path switching means 64, 66, and 70 are controlled to be switched in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and are first to third during normal operation (cooling operation). The flow path switching valves 64, 66, and 70 are held in the first switching state, and the air flowing into the first flow path 24 from the outside is cooled and cooled as described above while flowing through the first flow path 24. Air is sent to the air-conditioned space. Further, during the cleaning operation, the first to third flow path switching means 64, 66, and 70 are switched to the second switching state, and the air flowing into the first flow path 24 from the outside is switched through the first flow path 24. It flows in the connection flow path 62, flows through the regenerative portion 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 from the other surface side to the one surface side through the flow switching connection flow path 62, and adheres to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 when flowing. Dust and dust are removed. The air containing dust, dust, and the like is discharged to the outside through the first flow path 24, the discharge connection flow path 68, and the second flow path 26, and thus uses the air that has flowed into the first flow path 24 from the outside. As a result, dust, dirt, etc. adhering to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 can be removed. In this cleaning operation, the discharge fan 52 may be operated to discharge the air in the air-conditioning target space to the outside through the second flow path 26. However, the operation of the discharge fan 52 is stopped. May be.

  In the second embodiment, dust attached to the first desiccant rotor 4 is removed by using the flow of air flowing into the first flow path 12 from the outside. In order to enhance the cleaning effect, It is preferable to increase the flow rate of air flowing through the first flow path 24 by increasing the rotational speed of the suction blower 50 during the cleaning operation.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, in the desiccant air conditioner 2 </ b> B of the third embodiment, in relation to the first desiccant rotor 4, the first flow path 24 (part upstream of the regeneration unit 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4) and A discharge connection flow path 68 that connects the second flow path 26 is provided, and the second flow path 26 and the first flow path 24 (specifically, the first flow path 24 (specifically, the first flow path 26) A feed connection flow path 72 is provided to connect the regenerator 31 of the desiccant rotor 4 to the downstream side portion. Further, a third flow path switching means 70 is disposed at a connection portion between one end side of the discharge connection flow path 68 and the first flow path 24, and one end side of the feed connection flow path 72 and the second flow path. 26, the fourth flow path switching valve 74 is disposed, the discharge connection flow path 68, the feed connection flow path 72, and the third and fourth flow path switching means 70, 74 are the first described above. The configuration may be substantially the same as that of the embodiment, and in the third embodiment, the flow switching connection flow path 62 and the first and second flow path switching means 64 and 66 related thereto in the first embodiment are omitted. ing. In FIG. 7, the first and second temperature detecting means and the first and second humidity detecting means are omitted.

  Also in the third embodiment, the third and fourth flow path switching means 70 and 74 are controlled to be switched in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and during the normal operation (cooling operation), the third and fourth flow paths are controlled. The switching valves 70 and 74 are held in the first switching state, and the air flowing into the first flow path 24 from the outside is cooled as described above while flowing through the first flow path 24, and the cooled air is air-conditioned. It is sent to the target space. Further, during the cleaning operation, the third and fourth flow path switching means 70 and 74 are switched to the second switching state, and the air flowing into the second flow path 26 from the air-conditioning target space passes through the feed connection flow path 72 to the first. It flows in the flow path 24, flows through the reproducing part 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4 from the other surface side toward the one surface side, and dust, dust, etc. adhering to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 are removed during the flow. The air containing dust, dust, and the like is discharged to the outside through the first flow path 24, the discharge connection flow path 68, and the second flow path 26 as described above, and thus the second flow from the air-conditioning target space. Dust, dust, and the like attached to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 can be removed using the air flowing into the passage 26. Note that during this cleaning operation, the suction blower 50 is deactivated, and external air does not flow downstream through the first flow path 24.

  In the third embodiment, dust attached to the first desiccant rotor 4 is removed using the flow of air flowing into the second flow path 26 from the air-conditioning target space, so that the cleaning effect is enhanced. In the cleaning operation, it is preferable to increase the flow rate of the air supplied from the second flow path 26 to the first flow path 24 by increasing the rotational speed of the discharge fan 52.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 8, in the desiccant air conditioner 2 </ b> C of the fourth embodiment, during normal operation (cooling operation), air from the outside passes through the first flow path 12 from one side of the first desiccant rotor 4 to the moisture absorbing portion. 28 flows downstream through the first flow path 24 and flows downstream through the first flow path 24 from the one side of the first desiccant rotor 4 to the downstream side through the regenerating unit 31, and during the cleaning operation, the normal operation is performed. Similarly to the time, the air flowing in the downstream side of the first flow path 24 is configured to flow from the one side of the first desiccant rotor 4 to the downstream side through the regeneration unit 31.

  In relation to this, the discharge connection flow path 68C connects the second flow path 26 and the first flow path 24 (specifically, a portion downstream of the regeneration unit 31 of the first desiccant rotor 4). The third flow path switching means 70C is disposed at the connecting portion between the one end side of the discharge connection flow path 68C and the first flow path 24, and the discharge connection flow path 68C and the third flow path switching means. 70C may have substantially the same configuration as that of the first embodiment described above. In FIG. 8, the first and second temperature detection means and the first and second humidity detection means are omitted.

  Also in the fourth embodiment, the third flow path switching means 70C is controlled to be switched in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and during normal operation (cooling operation), the third flow path switching valve 70C is in the first switching state. The air flowing into the first flow path 24 from the outside is cooled as described above while flowing through the first flow path 24, and the cooled air is supplied to the air-conditioning target space. Further, during the cleaning operation, the third flow path switching means 70C is switched to the second switching state, and the air that has flowed into the first flow path from the outside flows to the first desiccant rotor 4 through the first flow path 24, and this first The reproduction unit 31 of the desiccant rotor 4 flows from one side to the other side, and dust, dust, and the like attached to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 are removed during the flow. The air containing dust, dust, etc. is discharged to the outside through the first flow path 24, the discharge connection flow path 68C and the second flow path 26, and thus the air that has flowed into the first flow path 24 from the outside is used. As a result, dust, dirt, etc. adhering to the surface of the first desiccant rotor 4 can be removed. During this cleaning operation, the discharge fan 52 may be activated or deactivated.

  In the fourth embodiment, dust or the like attached to the first desiccant rotor 4 is removed using the flow of air flowing into the first flow path 24 from the outside. Therefore, the rotational speed of the suction blower 50 is increased. Thus, the cleaning effect can be enhanced by increasing the flow rate of the air flowing through the first flow path 24.

  In the fourth embodiment, cleaning is performed using the air that has flowed into the first flow path 24 from the outside. However, instead of such air, the air conditioning target space is changed to the second flow path 26. Cleaning may be performed using the inflowing air, or cleaning may be performed using both of these airs.

  As mentioned above, although various embodiment of the desiccant air conditioner according to this invention was described, this invention is not limited to these embodiment, A various change thru | or correction | amendment are possible without deviating from the scope of the present invention. .

2, 2A. 2B. 2C Desiccant Air Conditioner 4 First Desiccant Rotor 8 Second Desiccant Rotor 24 First Channel 26 Second Channel 62 Flow Switching Connection Channel 64 First Channel Switching Unit 66 Second Channel Switching Unit 68, 68C Discharge Connection Flow Paths 70, 70C Third flow path switching means 72 Feed connection flow path 74 Fourth flow path switching means K1 First moisture absorption area K2 Second moisture absorption area S1 First regeneration area S2 Second regeneration area

Claims (4)

The first desiccant rotor includes first and second desiccant rotors for absorbing moisture in the air, and first and second heat exchangers for heat exchange, and external air passes through the first flow path. The first heat exchanger, the hygroscopic part of the second desiccant rotor, the second heat exchanger, and the regenerating part of the first desiccant rotor to be supplied to the air conditioned space, and the air conditioned space A part of the air flows through the first heat exchanger through the first intermediate branch channel of the second channel and is discharged to the outside, and the remaining part passes through the second intermediate branch channel of the second channel. A desiccant air conditioner that flows through the regeneration unit of the second heat exchanger and the second desiccant rotor and is discharged to the outside,
External air flows into the hygroscopic section from one side of the first desiccant rotor through the first flow path, and the air flowing through the first flow path flows from the single side of the first desiccant rotor to the regeneration section. Configured to flow into
A flow switching connection flow path and a discharge connection flow path are provided in association with the first desiccant rotor, and the flow switching connection flow path bypasses the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor and the first flow path. The discharge connection flow path connects the upstream side of the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor in the first flow path and the second flow path,
In addition, a feeding connection channel is disposed in relation to the second channel, and the feeding connection channel includes the second channel and the first channel or the flow switching connection channel. connection,
During the cleaning operation, the air that has flowed into the first flow path from the outside flows into the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor through the flow switching connection flow path , and from the air-conditioning target space to the second air flow. The air that has flowed into the flow path passes through the feed connection flow path and flows through the first flow path or the flow switching connection flow path, and then flows into the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the desiccant rotor, and the desiccant The desiccant air conditioner characterized in that the air that has passed through the regeneration section of the rotor is discharged to the outside through the discharge connection channel and the second channel.   The first and second flow path switching means are disposed in relation to the flow switching connection flow path, and the third flow path switching means is disposed in relation to the discharge connection flow path, so that normal operation is performed. Sometimes, the first flow path switching means is held in the first switching state and flows air from the upstream side of the first flow path to the downstream side, and the second flow path switching means is in the first switching state. The air passing through the regeneration unit from the one side of the first desiccant rotor is caused to flow downstream of the first flow path, and the third flow path switching means is held in the first switching state. Air from the upstream side of the first flow path flows toward the downstream side toward the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor, and during the cleaning operation, the first flow path switching means switches to the second switching state. And the air from the upstream side of the first flow path to the flow switching connection flow path The second flow path switching means is switched to the second switching state and flows the air flowing through the flow switching connection flow path toward the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor, and the third flow path switching means is The air that has been switched to the second switching state and has passed through the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor is caused to flow toward the second flow path through the discharge connection flow path. The desiccant air conditioner according to 1. In relation to the feed connection flow path, a fourth flow path switching means is disposed, and the fourth flow path switching means is maintained in the first switching state during normal operation and is upstream of the second flow path. air from the flow on the downstream side, and wherein the second that is switched to the switching state flowing air from the upstream side of the second flow path to said feed connection channel during the cleaning operation according to claim 2 The desiccant air conditioner described in 1. The first desiccant rotor includes first and second desiccant rotors for absorbing moisture in the air, and first and second heat exchangers for heat exchange, and external air passes through the first flow path. The first heat exchanger, the hygroscopic part of the second desiccant rotor, the second heat exchanger, and the regenerating part of the first desiccant rotor to be supplied to the air conditioned space, and the air conditioned space A part of the air flows through the first heat exchanger through the first intermediate branch channel of the second channel and is discharged to the outside, and the remaining part passes through the second intermediate branch channel of the second channel. A desiccant air conditioner that flows through the regeneration unit of the second heat exchanger and the second desiccant rotor and is discharged to the outside,
External air flows into the hygroscopic section from one side of the first desiccant rotor through the first flow path, and the air flowing through the first flow path flows from the single side of the first desiccant rotor to the regeneration section. Configured to flow into
In connection with the first desiccant rotor, a discharge connection flow path is provided, the discharge connection flow path being upstream of the regeneration portion of the first desiccant rotor in the first flow path and the second flow path. And a feed connection channel is provided in association with the second channel, the feed connection channel being the first desiccant rotor in the second channel and the first channel. Connected to the downstream side of the playback unit,
During the cleaning operation, the air flowing from the air-conditioning target space to the second flow path flows into the regeneration unit from the other surface side of the first desiccant rotor through the feed connection flow path, and then the discharge connection flow path and the A desiccant air conditioner discharged outside through the second flow path.

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