JP7422948B2 - air conditioner - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and particularly relates to humidification operation.

Absolute humidity decreases in winter. As a result, the risk of infection tends to increase in winter because the virus loses surface moisture and becomes airborne, making it easier for it to invade the mouth or throat. In order to reduce the risk of infection, it is important to maintain a constant level of humidity through humidification.

As a conventional humidifying means, a humidifying means using a heat pump type air conditioner has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 collects water generated by an outdoor unit during heating, transports the collected water to the indoor unit using a pump, etc., and uses the transported water to cool the room. Humidify. In addition, in an air conditioner, the colder the outdoor air temperature becomes, the more frost is likely to form on the outdoor heat exchanger that serves as an evaporator and exchanges heat between the outside air and the refrigerant. Therefore, an air conditioner that can perform a defrost operation to melt the frost attached to an outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat between outside air and refrigerant as an evaporator in an environment where the outside air temperature is low has been proposed (for example, Patent Document (see 2).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-213780 International Publication No. 2014/083867

The air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 starts heating operation when the outdoor heat exchanger is dry, so it takes time until water can actually be collected. Therefore, it is difficult to perform heating and humidification simultaneously and continuously, and the responsiveness until the room is actually humidified is low. Furthermore, the air conditioner described in Patent Document 2 has the main purpose of melting frost attached to an outdoor heat exchanger, and does not use the melted frost as humidifying water.

The present disclosure solves the above-mentioned problems, and can perform heating and humidification simultaneously and continuously, and uses melted frost as humidifying water to provide immediate response until the room can actually be humidified. The purpose is to provide an air conditioner with high performance.

The air conditioner according to the present disclosure includes a main circuit in which a refrigerant circulates, which includes a compressor, a flow path switching device, an indoor heat exchanger, a pressure reducing device, and a plurality of parallel heat exchangers connected in parallel with each other through refrigerant piping. a bypass circuit that connects the discharge side of the compressor and a plurality of parallel heat exchangers, and includes a bypass pipe through which a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor branches and flows; A flow rate adjustment device that adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant discharged by the refrigerant, an indoor blower that sends indoor air to the indoor heat exchanger, and a plurality of parallel heat exchangers are respectively arranged. It was created by multiple outdoor blowers that send air respectively, a water collection device that collects water generated from multiple parallel heat exchangers, a heating device that heats and evaporates the water collected in the water collection device, and a heating device. A conveyance device that conveys air containing water vapor to an indoor space, a humidifier that is placed in the indoor space and discharges the air containing water vapor conveyed by the conveyance device to the indoor space, a compressor, and a flow path switch. A control device that controls a device, a pressure reduction device, an indoor blower, a plurality of outdoor blowers, a heating device, and a conveyance device, and the control device always targets a part of the plurality of parallel heat exchangers to be defrosted. It has a continuous humidification/heating operation mode in which the heating device and the conveyance device are controlled and air containing water vapor is discharged from the humidification device into the indoor space.

According to the present disclosure, an air conditioner includes a water collection device that collects water generated from a plurality of parallel heat exchangers, and a heating device that heats and evaporates the water collected in the water collection device. In addition, an air conditioner is equipped with a transport device that transports air containing water vapor created by a heating device to the indoor space, and a transport device that is placed in the indoor space and transports the air containing water vapor that is transported by the transport device to the indoor space. and a humidifying device that discharges water into the air. In addition, the air conditioner includes a control device, and the control device has a continuous humidification/heating operation mode. In the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, moisture obtained by defrosting is collected and vaporized by heating. The vaporized air is transported indoors to humidify the room, so that heating operation can be performed while constantly humidifying the room. Therefore, the air conditioner can perform heating and humidification simultaneously and continuously, and can increase the responsiveness to actually humidify the room by using melted frost as humidifying water.

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device in FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the flow of refrigerant during a cooling operation mode in the air conditioner according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a ph diagram in the cooling operation mode of the air conditioner according to the embodiment. It is a figure showing the flow of the refrigerant in the normal heating operation mode in the air conditioner of the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a ph diagram in the normal heating operation mode of the air conditioner according to the embodiment. It is a figure showing the flow of the refrigerant in the continuous heating operation mode or the continuous humidification heating operation mode in the air conditioner of the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a ph diagram in the continuous heating operation mode or the continuous humidification heating operation mode in the air conditioner according to the embodiment. 2 shows a control flow of the humidification unit in the continuous humidification/heating operation mode of the air conditioner according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, an air conditioner according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings and the like. In the following drawings, the same reference numerals are the same or equivalent, and are common throughout the entire embodiment described below. Further, in the drawings, the size relationship of each component may differ from the actual one. The forms of the constituent elements shown in the entire specification are merely examples, and are not limited to the forms described in the specification. In particular, the combinations of components are not limited to those in each embodiment, and components described in other embodiments can be applied to other embodiments. Moreover, the height of pressure and temperature is not determined particularly in relation to absolute values, but is determined relatively depending on the state and operation of the device.

Embodiment.
[Overall configuration of air conditioner 100]
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner 100 according to an embodiment. The air conditioner 100 is a device that adjusts the air in an indoor space to be air-conditioned. The air conditioner 100 uses a heat pump cycle that circulates refrigerant, and operates in a cooling operation mode and a heating operation mode.

The air conditioner 100 includes an outdoor unit 10, an indoor unit 20, and a humidification unit 30. The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are connected by a first extension pipe 21 and a second extension pipe 22, and the indoor unit 20 and the humidifying unit 30 are connected by an indoor/outdoor connection duct (not shown). has been done.

The air conditioner 100 further includes a control device 90. The control device 90 controls various operation modes of the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20, such as a cooling operation mode and a heating operation mode. Note that the heating operation mode includes a normal heating operation mode, a continuous heating operation mode, a continuous humidifying heating operation mode, and the like. Further, the control device 90 controls the humidification of the indoor space by controlling each device included in the humidification unit 30.

The outdoor unit 10 includes a compressor 1, a flow path switching device 2, a first parallel heat exchanger 41 and a second parallel heat exchanger 42, a first outdoor blower 61 and a second outdoor blower 62, a pressure reducing device 3, and a flow rate. It has an adjustment device 7. The outdoor unit 10 also includes a first main switching device 71, a second main switching device 72, a first sub-switching device 81, and a second sub-switching device 82. The outdoor unit 10 also includes a first outdoor pressure sensor 91 and a second outdoor pressure sensor 92, as well as a first outdoor temperature and humidity sensor 93 and a second outdoor temperature and humidity sensor 94.

The indoor unit 20 includes an indoor heat exchanger 5 , an indoor blower 63 , an indoor pressure sensor 95 , a temperature sensor 96 , an indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 , and a humidifier 34 . The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are connected by a first extension pipe 21 and a second extension pipe 22. Here, in the embodiment, the air conditioner 100 has one outdoor unit 10 and one indoor unit 20, but the air conditioner 100 has two or more outdoor units 10 and two or more indoor units 20. But that's fine.

The humidifying unit 30 includes a water collecting device 31, a heating device 32, a conveying device 33, and a humidifying device 34. Further, the humidifying unit 30 includes a transport hose 36 and a drainage device 35. The humidifying unit 30 and the indoor unit 20 are connected by a conveying hose 36. Further, the humidifying unit 30 has a water level sensor 98 or a weight sensor 99. The humidifying unit 30 collects water condensed in the outdoor unit 10 with a water collecting device 31, evaporates the water into water vapor with a heating device 32, transports the air containing water vapor indoors with a conveying device 33, and collects water condensed in the outdoor unit 10 with a water collecting device 31. to supply air containing water vapor into the room.

[Configuration of refrigerant circuit 14 of air conditioner 100]
Here, the configuration of the refrigerant circuit 14 in this air conditioner 100 will be explained. The refrigerant circuit 14 is a refrigerant circuit to which the refrigerant pipe 16 is connected. The refrigerant pipe 16 is a pipe through which a refrigerant flows. The refrigerant circuit 14 has a main circuit 15 and a bypass circuit 18.

(Main circuit 15)
The main circuit 15 is the main circuit of the refrigerant circuit 14 in the air conditioner 100. The air conditioner 100 includes a compressor 1, a flow path switching device 2, a first parallel heat exchanger 41, a second parallel heat exchanger 42, a pressure reduction device 3, and an indoor heat exchanger 5 connected by a refrigerant pipe 16. This constitutes a main circuit 15 which is a refrigerant circuit in which refrigerant circulates.

In the main circuit 15, the discharge side of the compressor 1 and the flow path switching device 2 are connected by a discharge pipe 23. Further, in the main circuit 15, the suction side of the compressor 1 and the flow path switching device 2 are connected through a suction pipe 24. The discharge pipe 23 and the suction pipe 24 form part of the refrigerant pipe 16. Further, the first extension pipe 21 and the second extension pipe 22 described above form part of the refrigerant pipe 16 in the main circuit 15.

Further, the refrigerant pipe 16 configuring the main circuit 15 has a parallel pipe 28 . The parallel pipe 28 is a refrigerant pipe 16 in a portion of the main circuit 15 that constitutes a portion between the flow path switching device 2 and the pressure reducing device 3, where the refrigerant circuit 14 is formed as a parallel circuit. The parallel pipe 28 has a first connection pipe 25 and a second connection pipe 26. A first parallel heat exchanger 41 is connected to the first connection pipe 25, and a second parallel heat exchanger 42 is connected to the second connection pipe 26. Note that the number of connection pipes constituting the parallel pipe 28, that is, the number of parallel circuits, is the same as the number of heat exchangers such as the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42.

(Bypass circuit 18)
The bypass circuit 18 is a refrigerant circuit 14 that branches part of the high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 and supplies the refrigerant to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 for defrosting. . Note that defrosting refers to removing frost from the evaporator in response to frost buildup on the evaporator.

In the air conditioner 100, a refrigerant that connects the refrigerant circuit 14 between the compressor 1 and the flow path switching device 2 and the refrigerant circuit 14 between the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the first main switching device 71. The circuit 14 is called a bypass circuit 18. In the air conditioner 100, the refrigerant circuit 14 between the compressor 1 and the flow path switching device 2 and the refrigerant circuit 14 between the second parallel heat exchanger 42 and the second main switching device 72 are connected. The refrigerant circuit 14 is called a bypass circuit 18. The refrigerant pipe 16 that constitutes the bypass circuit 18 is referred to as a bypass pipe 27. The bypass circuit 18 connects the discharge side of the compressor 1 and a plurality of parallel heat exchangers, and includes a bypass pipe 27 through which a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 branches and flows.

The bypass circuit 18 is composed of a bypass piping 27, and the flow rate adjustment device 7, a first sub-switching device 81, and a second sub-switching device 82 are connected to the bypass piping 27. The bypass pipe 27 connects the discharge pipe 23 to the first connection pipe 25 and the second connection pipe 26 by bypassing the flow path switching device 2. A part of the refrigerant branches and flows. Note that the bypass pipe 27 may be configured to connect the refrigerant pipe 16 that connects the flow path switching device 2 and the first extension pipe 21 to the first connection pipe 25 and the second connection pipe 26. That is, one end of the bypass pipe 27 is connected to the discharge pipe 23 or the refrigerant pipe 16 that connects the flow path switching device 2 and the first extension pipe 21, the other end is branched, and each other end is connected to the first extension pipe 21. It is connected to the connection pipe 25 or the second connection pipe 26.

In the bypass circuit 18 , the flow rate adjustment device 7 is connected to a bypass pipe 27 between the discharge pipe 23 and the first connection pipe 25 and the second connection pipe 26 . The first sub-opening/closing device 81 is connected to the bypass pipe 27 between the flow rate adjustment device 7 and the first connection pipe 25. The second sub-opening/closing device 82 is connected to the bypass pipe 27 between the flow rate adjustment device 7 and the second connection pipe 26. Bypass piping 27 between the flow rate adjustment device 7 and the first sub-switching device 81 and the second sub-switching device 82 connects the flow rate regulating device 7 and the first sub-switching device 81 to the flow rate regulating device 7 and the second sub-switching device 82. It branches into a circuit with device 82. That is, one branched pipe of the bypass pipe 27 is provided with a first sub-switching device 81, and the other pipe is provided with a second sub-switching device 82.

Here, as the refrigerant to be circulated through the refrigerant circuit 14, for example, a fluorocarbon refrigerant or an HFO refrigerant can be used. Examples of the fluorocarbon refrigerant include HFC refrigerant such as R32 refrigerant, R125, or R134, or mixed refrigerant such as R410A, R407c, or R404A. Furthermore, examples of the HFO refrigerant include HFO-1234yf, HFO-1234ze (E), and HFO-1234ze (Z).

In addition, other refrigerants to be circulated in the refrigerant circuit 14 include CO ₂ refrigerant, HC refrigerant, ammonia refrigerant, or a mixed refrigerant of the above refrigerants such as a mixed refrigerant of R32 and HFO-1234yf, etc., and the above compression type refrigerant. Refrigerants used in heat pumps can be used. The HC refrigerant is, for example, propane or isobutane refrigerant.

[Each device included in the air conditioner 100]
(Devices included in outdoor unit 10)
The compressor 1 sucks refrigerant at a low temperature and low pressure, compresses the sucked refrigerant, and discharges the refrigerant at a high temperature and high pressure. The flow path switching device 2 switches the direction in which the refrigerant flows in the refrigerant circuit, and is, for example, a four-way valve.

The air conditioner 100 can switch between a cooling operation mode and a heating operation mode by switching the flow direction of the refrigerant using the flow path switching device 2. In FIG. 1, the direction of the solid line arrow indicates the direction in which the refrigerant flows in the heating operation mode, and the direction of the broken line arrow indicates the direction in which the refrigerant flows in the cooling operation mode.

The first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are connected to the parallel piping 28, respectively. The first parallel heat exchanger 41 is connected to the first connection pipe 25 , and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is connected to the second connection pipe 26 .

The first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are, for example, outdoor heat exchangers that exchange heat between outside air, which is outdoor air, and a refrigerant. The first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 function as a condenser during the cooling operation mode, and function as an evaporator during the heating operation mode. The first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are arranged in parallel with each other. The outdoor unit 10 has a first parallel heat exchanger 41 and a second parallel heat exchanger 42, and has a plurality of heat exchangers.

In the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment, a configuration in which two heat exchangers are arranged in parallel as the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is illustrated, but three or more heat exchangers are arranged in parallel. A configuration in which heat exchangers are arranged in parallel may also be used. Note that the number of heat exchangers in the outdoor unit 10 may be one. Further, here, it is assumed that the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 have the same area for heat exchange, the same heat exchange rate, and the same capacity.

The first outdoor blower 61 is arranged near the first parallel heat exchanger 41. The first outdoor blower 61 sends outdoor air to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 . Further, the second outdoor blower 62 is arranged near the second parallel heat exchanger 42 . The second outdoor blower 62 sends outdoor air to the second parallel heat exchanger 42 . The number of outdoor blowers in the outdoor unit 10 in the embodiment is two, the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62, but the number of outdoor blowers may be three or more. That is, the plurality of outdoor blowers are respectively arranged corresponding to the plurality of parallel heat exchangers, and send air to each of the plurality of parallel heat exchangers.

The pressure reducing device 3 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant and expands it. The pressure reducing device 3 in the embodiment is, for example, an electronic expansion valve whose opening degree can be adjusted. The opening degree of the pressure reducing device 3 may be adjusted by the control device 90. In the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the pressure reducing device 3 is installed in the outdoor unit 10, but the pressure reducing device 3 may be installed in the indoor unit 20.

The first main switching device 71 is connected to the first connection pipe 25. In the refrigerant circuit 14 between the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the flow path switching device 2, the first main switching device 71 connects the confluence section 13 with the first connection pipe 25 and the second connection pipe 26, and the first It is connected to the first connection pipe 25 between the parallel heat exchanger 41 and the parallel heat exchanger 41 . Note that, as shown in FIG. 1, a first sub-switching device 81 is provided in the first connecting pipe 25 between the first main switching device 71 and the first parallel heat exchanger 41 in the middle of the bypass circuit 18. Bypass piping 27 is connected.

The first main switching device 71 is a device that adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the first connection pipe 25 in the main circuit 15. When the first main switching device 71 is open, the refrigerant flows into the first parallel heat exchanger 41, and when the first main switching device 71 is closed, the refrigerant does not flow into the first parallel heat exchanger 41.

The second main switching device 72 is connected to the second connection pipe 26. In the refrigerant circuit 14 between the second parallel heat exchanger 42 and the flow path switching device 2, the second main switching device 72 connects the confluence section 13 with the first connection pipe 25 and the second connection pipe 26, and the second It is connected to the second connection pipe 26 between the parallel heat exchanger 42 and the parallel heat exchanger 42 . Note that, as shown in FIG. 1, a second sub-switching device 82 is provided in the second connecting pipe 26 between the second main switching device 72 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 in the middle of the bypass circuit 18. Bypass piping 27 is connected.

The second main switching device 72 is a device that adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the second connection pipe 26 in the main circuit 15. When the second main switching device 72 is open, the refrigerant flows into the second parallel heat exchanger 42, and when the second main switching device 72 is closed, the refrigerant does not flow into the second parallel heat exchanger 42.

The first main opening/closing device 71 and the second main opening/closing device 72 may be any device that can open and close the flow path. The first main opening/closing device 71 and the second main opening/closing device 72 are configured by, for example, a solenoid valve, a four-way valve, a three-way valve, a two-way valve, or the like. Main switching devices such as the first main switching device 71 and the second main switching device 72 are provided corresponding to the parallel heat exchangers, respectively.

The flow rate adjustment device 7 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant and expands it. Further, the flow rate adjustment device 7 adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the bypass pipe 27 in the bypass circuit 18 . The flow rate adjustment device 7 is provided in the bypass pipe 27 and adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant discharged by the compressor 1. The opening degree of the flow rate adjustment device 7 is adjusted by the control device 90. The flow rate adjustment device 7 is, for example, an electronic expansion valve whose opening degree can be adjusted.

The first sub-opening/closing device 81 is a device that adjusts the flow rate of refrigerant flowing through the bypass pipe 27 in the bypass circuit 18. When the first sub-switching device 81 is open, the refrigerant flows between the discharge pipe 23 and the first connecting pipe 25, and when the first sub-switching device 81 is closed, the refrigerant flows between the discharge pipe 23 and the first connecting pipe 25. Refrigerant does not flow between the

The second sub-opening/closing device 82 is a device that adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the bypass pipe 27 in the bypass circuit 18. When the second sub-switching device 82 is open, the refrigerant flows between the discharge pipe 23 and the second connecting pipe 26, and when the second sub-switching device 82 is closed, the refrigerant flows between the discharge pipe 23 and the second connecting pipe 26. Refrigerant does not flow between the

The first sub-opening/closing device 81 and the second sub-opening/closing device 82 may be any device that can open and close the flow path. The first sub-opening/closing device 81 and the second sub-opening/closing device 82 are configured by, for example, a solenoid valve, a four-way valve, a three-way valve, a two-way valve, or the like. Sub-switching devices such as the first sub-switching device 81 and the second sub-switching device 82 are provided corresponding to the parallel heat exchangers, respectively.

The first outdoor pressure sensor 91 is provided between the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the pressure reducing device 3 in the first connecting pipe 25 . The first outdoor pressure sensor 91 detects the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the first connection pipe 25. When the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functions as a condenser, the first outdoor pressure sensor 91 functions as a condensation pressure sensor. Further, when the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functions as an evaporator, the first outdoor pressure sensor 91 functions as an evaporation pressure sensor.

The second outdoor pressure sensor 92 is provided between the second parallel heat exchanger 42 and the pressure reducing device 3 in the second connection pipe 26 . The second outdoor pressure sensor 92 detects the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the second connection pipe 26. When the second parallel heat exchanger 42 functions as a condenser, the second outdoor pressure sensor 92 functions as a condensation pressure sensor. Further, when the second parallel heat exchanger 42 functions as an evaporator, the second outdoor pressure sensor 92 functions as an evaporation pressure sensor.

The first outdoor pressure sensor 91 or the second outdoor pressure sensor 92 may be attached to the suction side of the compressor 1 to detect suction pressure. Further, the first outdoor pressure sensor 91 and the second outdoor pressure sensor can be replaced by a temperature sensor (not shown) that detects the temperature of the refrigerant if the refrigerant is in a gas-liquid two-phase state. In this case, the temperature value detected by the temperature sensor is converted into the refrigerant pressure as the saturation temperature. When detecting the temperature of the refrigerant, the method of detecting the temperature may be a direct method in which the temperature of the refrigerant is detected by the contact between the temperature sensor and the refrigerant, or a method of detecting the temperature of the outer surface of piping or a heat exchanger, etc. An indirect method may also be used.

The first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93 is provided in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and detects the outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity of outdoor air near the first parallel heat exchanger 41 . Further, the second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94 is provided in the second parallel heat exchanger 42 and detects the outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity of the outdoor air near the second parallel heat exchanger 42 .

(Devices included in indoor unit 20)
The indoor heat exchanger 5 exchanges heat between indoor air, which is a space to be air-conditioned, and a refrigerant, for example. The indoor heat exchanger 5 functions as an evaporator during the cooling operation mode, and functions as a condenser during the heating operation mode. In the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment, a configuration in which the indoor unit 20 has one indoor heat exchanger 5 is illustrated, but a configuration in which the indoor unit 20 has two or more indoor heat exchangers 5 may be used. .

The indoor blower 63 is placed near the indoor heat exchanger 5. The indoor blower 63 sends indoor air to the indoor heat exchanger 5.

The indoor pressure sensor 95 is provided in the indoor heat exchanger 5 and detects the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the indoor heat exchanger 5. When the indoor heat exchanger 5 functions as a condenser, the indoor pressure sensor 95 functions as a condensation pressure sensor. Moreover, when the indoor heat exchanger 5 functions as an evaporator, the indoor pressure sensor 95 functions as an evaporation pressure sensor.

The indoor pressure sensor 95 may be attached to the discharge side of the compressor 1 to detect the discharge pressure. In addition, the indoor pressure sensor 95 can be replaced by a temperature sensor 96 that detects the temperature of the refrigerant if the refrigerant is in a gas-liquid two-phase state. In this case, the temperature value detected by the temperature sensor is converted into the refrigerant pressure as the saturation temperature.

The temperature sensor 96 is attached to a portion where the refrigerant is in a gas-liquid two-phase state, and is used to detect the saturation temperature of the refrigerant. The indoor temperature and humidity sensor 97 is provided in the indoor heat exchanger 5 and detects the temperature and relative humidity of indoor air.

The humidifying device 34 is a device that constitutes the humidifying unit 30, and is also a device that is disposed within the indoor unit 20. The humidifier 34 is arranged at a position through which the air blown by the indoor blower 63 passes. The humidifier 34 is a device for humidifying the indoor air blown by the indoor blower 63 and humidifying the indoor space. The humidifier 34 is formed with a humidified air outlet 34a, and air containing water vapor collected in the water collection device 31 of the humidifier unit 30 is discharged from the outlet 34a. The humidifier 34 is arranged in the indoor space and discharges the air containing water vapor transported by the transport device 33 into the indoor space.

(Devices included in humidification unit 30)
The water collection device 31 is a device that collects condensed water generated in the outdoor unit 10. For example, the water collection device 31 is disposed below the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42, and the water condensation water generated in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is Collect water. The water collection device 31 may be, for example, a drain pan provided in the outdoor unit 10, or a saucer provided separately from the drain pan to collect condensed water.

The heating device 32 is a device that heats and evaporates the water collected by the water collection device 31. The heating device 32 is attached to or placed near the water collection device 31 and heats the water collected by the water collection device 31. The heating device 32 may be, for example, a submersible heater or an external heater. The heating device 32 is used to melt the frozen water, if the water collected in the water collection device 31 is frozen.

The conveyance device 33 is provided on the conveyance hose 36 and conveys the air containing water vapor near the water collection device 31 to the indoor unit 20. The air near the water collection device 31 is, for example, the air inside the water collection device 31 or the air above the water collection device 31, and contains water vapor heated and vaporized by the heating device 32. This water vapor is obtained by vaporizing water collected by the water collection device 31 and heated by the heating device 32.

The conveyance device 33 is, for example, a pump, and pumps up the water vapor vaporized by the heating device 32 and conveys it to the indoor unit 20 . The air containing water vapor transported by the transport device 33 is supplied to the humidifier 34 and is discharged into the indoor space through the humidifier 34. The conveying device 33 conveys the air containing water vapor produced by the heating device 32 into the indoor space.

The transport hose 36 has one end connected to a humidifier 34 disposed in the indoor unit 20 and the other end connected to a water collection device 31 disposed in the humidification unit 30 . Air mainly flows through the transport hose 36 . The conveying device 33 and the drainage device 35 are provided between the humidifying device 34 and the water collecting device 31 in the conveying hose 36 . The water vapor transported toward the indoor unit 20 partially condenses along the transport hose 36. Therefore, the transport hose 36 may be attached perpendicularly to the bottom surface of the water collection device 31 so that water condensed within the transport hose 36 is collected in the water collection device 31.

The drainage device 35 is a device for discharging condensed water that has condensed within the transport hose 36. The drainage device 35 is, for example, an on-off valve, and by opening the valve, water accumulated in the transport hose 36 can be discharged. The opening and closing of the valve in the drainage device 35 is controlled by an opening/closing device control section 196 (see FIG. 2) of a control device 90, which will be described later. However, the valve of the drainage device 35 may be opened and closed by the user without using the control device 90.

The water level sensor 98 detects changes in the water level of the water collected in the water collection device 31. The water level sensor 98 is attached inside the water collection device 31. Weight sensor 99 detects the weight of water collected in water collection device 31 . The humidifying unit 30 may have only one of the water level sensor 98 and the weight sensor 99, or may have both the water level sensor 98 and the weight sensor 99.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device 90 in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. The control device 90 controls various operations of the air conditioner 100, such as a cooling operation mode and a heating operation mode, and maintains or changes a set room temperature. As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 90 includes a driving state determination section 190, a storage section 191, and a clock section 192. The control device 90 also includes a compressor control section 193 , a pressure reducing mechanism control section 194 , a blower control section 195 , an opening/closing device control section 196 , a heating device control section 197 , and a conveying device control section 198 .

The operating state determination unit 190 determines the control flow of the humidifying unit 30 in the continuous humidifying and heating operating mode, which will be described later, based on operating information indicating the operating state of the air conditioner 100 supplied from the outside and information detected by various sensors. Make a judgment. The storage unit 191 stores in advance programs, data, etc. necessary for control performed by the control device 90. The clock unit 192 includes, for example, a timer or a real-time clock, and is used to obtain the current time and to measure a set time.

The compressor control unit 193 controls the operating frequency of the compressor 1. The pressure reduction mechanism control unit 194 controls the opening degrees of the flow rate adjustment device 7 and the pressure reduction device 3. The blower control unit 195 controls the rotational speed of the first outdoor blower 61 , the second outdoor blower 62 , and the indoor blower 63 . The switching device control unit 196 controls the opening degree of the first main switching device 71, the second main switching device 72, the first sub-switching device 81, the second sub-switching device 82, the drainage device 35, and the like.

The heating device control unit 197 controls the start and stop of heating by the heating device 32 and the amount of heating. Note that the required indoor humidification amount (kg/h) is approximately determined depending on the housing type, indoor volume, etc. If the supplied humidification amount (kg/h) exceeds the required humidification amount (kg/h), condensation may occur, or the humidity conditions desired by the user cannot be obtained, so the heating amount must be changed. There are cases where Therefore, it is desirable for the air conditioner 100 to be able to determine the heating amount by inputting the indoor volume, housing type, etc., on the user side using a remote control or the like. The conveyance device control unit 198 drives and stops the conveyance device 33 and controls the amount of fluid conveyed.

The operating state determination unit 190 includes a first outdoor pressure sensor 91, a second outdoor pressure sensor 92, a first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93, a second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94, an indoor pressure sensor 95, a temperature sensor 96, and an indoor temperature/humidity sensor. 97, the detection data of the water level sensor 98 and the weight sensor 99 is received.

The control device 90 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer having a control processing device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Further, the control device 90 has a storage device (not shown), and has data in the form of a program of processing procedures related to control and the like. Then, the control arithmetic processing device executes processing based on the data of the program to realize control.

[Operation of air conditioner 100]
Next, the operation operations of each operation mode executed by this air conditioner 100 will be explained. The operation of the air conditioner 100 includes modes such as a cooling operation mode, a normal heating operation mode, a continuous heating operation mode, and a continuous humidification and heating operation mode. In the cooling operation mode, both the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 function as a condenser. In the normal heating operation mode, both the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 function as an evaporator.

In the continuous heating operation mode, the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are alternately defrosted while continuing the heating operation mode. In the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are alternately defrosted while continuing the heating operation mode. In addition, in the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are alternately defrosted, and the moisture obtained by the defrost is used to continuously humidify the indoor space. . Each operation mode will be explained below.

(Cooling operation mode)
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the flow of refrigerant during the cooling operation mode in the air conditioner 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a ph diagram in the cooling operation mode of the air conditioner 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the solid arrow shown in FIG. 3 indicates the direction in which the refrigerant flows. Moreover, the vertical axis of FIG. 4 shows the pressure P [Mpa], and the horizontal axis shows the specific enthalpy h [kg/kJ]. Further, points (a) to (d) in FIG. 4 show the state of the refrigerant at the portions with the same symbols in FIG. 3. The flow and state of the refrigerant in the air conditioner 100 in the cooling operation mode will be described using FIGS. 3 and 4.

In the air conditioner 100 in the cooling operation mode, the discharge side of the compressor 1 is connected to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 by the flow path switching device 2. A refrigerant circuit 14 is formed to which the suction side and the indoor heat exchanger 5 are connected. Here, the flow rate adjustment device 7 is closed. Further, the first main opening/closing device 71 and the second main opening/closing device 72 are open. In the refrigerant circuit 14 shown in FIG. 3, the parts through which the refrigerant flows are shown by solid lines, and the parts where the refrigerant does not flow are shown by broken lines.

In the cooling operation mode, the compressor 1 compresses the sucked low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and discharges the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. In the compression process of the refrigerant in the compressor 1, the refrigerant is compressed so as to be heated by the amount of the adiabatic efficiency of the compressor 1, compared to a case where the refrigerant is adiabatically compressed along an isentropic line. This change in refrigerant is represented by the line shown from point (a) to point (b) in FIG.

The high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 passes through the flow path switching device 2 and branches into two, and one of the branched refrigerants flows through the first connection pipe 25 and is connected to the first main pipe. It passes through the opening/closing device 71 and flows into the first parallel heat exchanger 41 which functions as a condenser. The other branched refrigerant flows through the second connection pipe 26, passes through the second main switching device 72, and flows into the second parallel heat exchanger 42, which functions as a condenser.

The refrigerant that has flowed into the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is transferred to the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62 in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42. It exchanges heat with the outdoor air being sent, condenses and liquefies, becoming a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The change in the refrigerant in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is determined by considering the pressure loss in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 at point (b) in FIG. ) to point (c).

The medium temperature and high pressure liquid refrigerant flowing out from each of the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 flows into the pressure reducing device 3 after joining together. The medium-temperature and high-pressure liquid state refrigerant that has flowed into the pressure reducing device 3 is expanded and depressurized in the pressure reducing device 3 to become a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The change in refrigerant in the pressure reducing device 3 is performed under constant enthalpy. The change in the refrigerant at this time is represented by a vertical line extending from point (c) to point (d) in FIG.

The low-temperature and low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing out from the pressure reducing device 3 passes through the second extension pipe 22 and flows into the indoor heat exchanger 5 that functions as an evaporator. The refrigerant that has flowed into the indoor heat exchanger 5 exchanges heat with the indoor air sent by the indoor blower 63 and evaporates to become a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. At this time, indoor air is cooled and air conditioning is performed indoors. The change in the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 5 is represented by a straight line extending from point (d) to point (a) in FIG. 4, taking pressure loss into consideration. The low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant that has flowed out of the indoor heat exchanger 5 passes through the first extension pipe 21 and the flow path switching device 2, is sucked into the compressor 1, and is compressed by the compressor 1.

(Normal heating operation mode)
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the flow of refrigerant in the normal heating operation mode in the air conditioner 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a ph diagram in the normal heating operation mode of the air conditioner 100 according to the embodiment. Note that the solid arrow shown in FIG. 5 indicates the direction in which the refrigerant flows. Moreover, the vertical axis of FIG. 6 shows the pressure P [Mpa], and the horizontal axis shows the specific enthalpy h [kg/kJ]. Further, points (a) to (d) in FIG. 6 show the state of the refrigerant at the portions with the same symbols in FIG. 5. The flow and state of the refrigerant in the air conditioner 100 during the normal heating operation mode will be described using FIGS. 5 and 6.

The normal heating operation mode is a mode in which a plurality of parallel heat exchangers all operate as evaporators. In the air conditioner 100 in the normal heating operation mode, the discharge side of the compressor 1 and the indoor heat exchanger 5 are connected by the flow path switching device 2, and the suction side of the compressor 1 and the first parallel heat exchanger are connected. A refrigerant circuit 14 is formed to which the refrigerant circuit 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 are connected. Here, the flow rate adjustment device 7 is closed. Further, the first main opening/closing device 71 and the second main opening/closing device 72 are open. In the refrigerant circuit 14 shown in FIG. 5, the parts through which the refrigerant flows are shown by solid lines, and the parts where the refrigerant does not flow are shown by broken lines.

In the normal heating operation mode, the compressor 1 compresses the sucked refrigerant in a low temperature and low pressure gas state and discharges it in a high temperature and high pressure gas state. In the compression process of the refrigerant in the compressor 1, the refrigerant is compressed so as to be heated by the amount of the adiabatic efficiency of the compressor 1, compared to a case where the refrigerant is adiabatically compressed along an isentropic line. This change in refrigerant is represented by the line shown from point (a) to point (b) in FIG.

The high temperature and high pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 flows out from the outdoor unit 10 after passing through the flow path switching device 2 . The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant that has flowed out of the outdoor unit 10 passes through the first extension pipe 21, flows into the indoor unit 20, and flows into the indoor heat exchanger 5, which functions as a condenser.

The refrigerant that has flowed into the indoor heat exchanger 5 exchanges heat with indoor air in the indoor heat exchanger 5, condenses and liquefies, and becomes a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. At this time, indoor air is warmed and heating is performed indoors. The change in the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 5 is represented by a straight line extending from point (b) to point (c) in FIG. 6, taking pressure loss into consideration.

The medium-temperature and high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 5 passes through the second extension pipe 22 and returns to the outdoor unit 10 . The liquid refrigerant that has flowed into the outdoor unit 10 flows into the pressure reducing device 3 . The medium-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant that has flowed into the pressure reducing device 3 is expanded and depressurized to become a medium-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The change in refrigerant in the pressure reducing device 3 is performed under constant enthalpy. The change in the refrigerant at this time is represented by a vertical line extending from point (c) to point (d) in FIG. Note that the pressure reducing device 3 is controlled so that the degree of subcooling of the medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant is approximately 5K to 20K.

The medium-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing out from the pressure reducing device 3 is branched and flows into a first parallel heat exchanger 41 and a second parallel heat exchanger 42 that function as evaporators. The medium-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed into the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is mixed with outdoor air in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42. The refrigerant undergoes heat exchange and evaporates to become a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The change in the refrigerant in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is determined by considering the pressure loss in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 at point (d) in FIG. ) to point (a).

The low-temperature and low-pressure gaseous refrigerant that has flowed out of the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 passes through the first connection pipe 25 and the second connection pipe 26, and passes through the first main switchgear 71 and the second connection pipe 26. After passing through the second main opening/closing device 72, they merge together. Thereafter, the low temperature and low pressure gaseous refrigerant passes through the flow path switching device 2, is sucked into the compressor 1, and is compressed by the compressor 1.

(Continuous heating operation mode)
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the flow of refrigerant during the continuous heating operation mode or the continuous humidification heating operation mode in the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a ph diagram in the continuous heating operation mode or continuous humidification heating operation mode in the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment. Note that the solid arrow shown in FIG. 7 indicates the direction in which the refrigerant flows. Moreover, the vertical axis of FIG. 8 shows the pressure P [Mpa], and the horizontal axis shows the specific enthalpy h [kg/kJ]. Further, points (a) to (f) in FIG. 8 show the state of the refrigerant at the portions with the same symbols in FIG. 7. The flow and state of the refrigerant in the air conditioner 100 in the continuous heating operation mode will be described using FIGS. 7 and 8. The continuous heating operation mode is performed when frost forms on the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 during the normal heating operation mode.

The continuous heating operation mode is a mode in which some of the plurality of parallel heat exchangers are subjected to defrosting and the others are operated as evaporators. In the air conditioner 100 in the continuous heating operation mode, the discharge side of the compressor 1 and the indoor heat exchanger 5 are connected by the flow path switching device 2, and the suction side of the compressor 1 and the first parallel heat exchanger are connected. 41 or the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is formed. In the air conditioner 100 in the continuous heating operation mode, one of the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is selected as a target for defrosting and defrosting is performed, and the other The heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and continues the heating operation mode.

In the air conditioner 100 in the continuous heating operation mode, the opening and closing states of the first main switching device 71 and the second main switching device 72, as well as the first sub-switching device 81 and the second sub-switching device 82 are switched alternately. In the air conditioner 100, the target of defrosting is alternately switched between the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 by switching the open/close state of the opening/closing device in this way. The flow of refrigerant flowing through the parallel piping 28 and the bypass piping 27 is directed between the first parallel heat exchanger 41 or the second parallel heat exchanger 42 to be defrosted, and the first parallel heat exchanger 41 or the second parallel heat exchanger 42 which functions as an evaporator. The switching is performed by switching between the heat exchanger 42 and the heat exchanger 42 .

The first main switching device 71 is opened and the first sub-switching device 81 is closed, so that the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functions as an evaporator, the second main switching device 72 is closed, and the second sub-switching device 81 is closed. By opening the opening/closing device 82, the second parallel heat exchanger 42 becomes a target for defrosting. Furthermore, by closing the first main switching device 71 and opening the first sub switching device 81, the first parallel heat exchanger 41 becomes the target of defrosting, the second main switching device 72 is opened, and the second By closing the sub-switching device 82, the second parallel heat exchanger 42 functions as an evaporator.

In the embodiment, the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is defrosted, and the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functions as an evaporator. The following describes the case where heating is continued. Note that when the first parallel heat exchanger 41 is selected as a target for defrosting, only the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing through the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is switched, and other operations are not performed. This is the same as when the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is selected as the target for defrosting.

In the air conditioner 100 in the continuous heating operation mode, the discharge side of the compressor 1 and the indoor heat exchanger 5 are connected by the flow path switching device 2, and the suction side of the compressor 1 and the first parallel heat exchanger 41 are connected. A refrigerant circuit 14 is formed to which the refrigerant circuit 14 is connected. Here, the flow rate adjustment device 7 is open. Further, the first main opening/closing device 71 is open, and the second main opening/closing device 72 is closed. Further, the first sub-switching device 81 is closed, and the second sub-switching device 82 is opened. In the refrigerant circuit 14 shown in FIG. 7, the parts through which the refrigerant flows are shown by solid lines, and the parts where the refrigerant does not flow are shown by broken lines.

First, the flow of refrigerant in the main circuit 15 will be explained. In the continuous heating operation mode, the compressor 1 compresses the sucked low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and discharges the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. In the compression process of the refrigerant in the compressor 1, the refrigerant is compressed so as to be heated by the amount of the adiabatic efficiency of the compressor 1, compared to a case where the refrigerant is adiabatically compressed along an isentropic line. The change in the refrigerant at this time is represented by a line extending from point (a) to point (b) in FIG.

A part of the high temperature and high pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 passes through the flow path switching device 2 and the first extension pipe 21, and flows into the indoor heat exchanger 5 which acts as a condenser. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant undergoes heat exchange with indoor air in the indoor heat exchanger 5, condenses and liquefies, and becomes a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. At this time, indoor air is warmed and heating is performed indoors. The change in the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 5 is represented by a straight line extending from point (b) to point (c) in FIG. 8, taking pressure loss into consideration.

The medium-temperature and high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing out of the indoor heat exchanger 5 passes through the second extension pipe 22 and flows into the pressure reducing device 3 . The medium-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant that has flowed into the pressure reducing device 3 is expanded and depressurized to become a medium-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The change in refrigerant in the pressure reducing device 3 is performed under the condition that the enthalpy is constant. The change in the refrigerant at this time is represented by a vertical line extending from point (c) to point (d) in FIG. Thereafter, the medium-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant that has flowed out of the pressure reducing device 3 joins with the refrigerant that has flowed through the second parallel heat exchanger 42, which will be defrosted, to be described later, thereby increasing its enthalpy.

The refrigerant in the gas-liquid two-phase state does not flow into the second parallel heat exchanger 42, which is the target of defrosting, but flows into the first parallel heat exchanger 41, which acts as an evaporator, and in the first parallel heat exchanger 41, It exchanges heat with outdoor air and evaporates into gas. The change in the refrigerant in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 is represented by a straight line extending from point (d) to point (a) in FIG. 8, considering the pressure loss in the first parallel heat exchanger 41. The low temperature and low pressure gaseous refrigerant flowing out from the first parallel heat exchanger 41 passes through the first connection pipe 25 and the first main switching device 71, then passes through the flow path switching device 2 and is compressed. It is sucked into the machine 1 and compressed by the compressor 1.

Next, the flow of refrigerant in the bypass circuit 18 will be explained. A portion of the high temperature and high pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 flows into the bypass pipe 27 . The refrigerant that has flowed into the bypass pipe 27 flows into the flow rate adjustment device 7 and is depressurized in the flow rate adjustment device 7. The change in the refrigerant in the flow rate adjustment device 7 is performed under the condition that the enthalpy is constant. The change in the refrigerant at this time is represented by a vertical line extending from point (b) to point (e) in FIG.

The refrigerant whose pressure has been reduced in the flow rate adjustment device 7 passes through the second sub-switching device 82, flows into the second connection pipe 26, and flows into the second parallel heat exchanger 42 to be defrosted. The refrigerant flowing into the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is cooled by heat exchange with the frost attached to the second parallel heat exchanger 42 . In this way, the high temperature and high pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 flows into the second parallel heat exchanger 42, thereby melting the frost attached to the second parallel heat exchanger 42. The change in the refrigerant at this time is represented by a line extending from point (e) to point (f) in FIG.

The second parallel heat exchanger 42 is defrosted, and the refrigerant flowing out from the second parallel heat exchanger 42 joins the main circuit 15 . The refrigerant that has joined the main circuit 15 flows into the first parallel heat exchanger 41, which acts as an evaporator, and is evaporated.

In the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment, when switching from the normal heating operation mode to the continuous heating operation mode, the increase in the refrigerant flow rate based on the change in the drive frequency of the compressor 1 is transferred to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 to be defrosted. Alternatively, it is made to flow through the second parallel heat exchanger 42. For this reason, the control device 90 adjusts the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment device 7.

In the air conditioner 100 of the embodiment, the control device 90 determines the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment device 7 in the continuous heating operation mode based on the operating state in the normal heating operation mode. Therefore, the first parallel heat exchanger 41 or the second parallel heat exchanger 42 to be defrosted can be defrosted while maintaining the heating capacity in the continuous heating operation mode.

When each of the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is defrosted in sequence, water is generated by melting the frost. The water collecting device 31 of the humidifying unit 30 collects and stores water generated by melting frost on the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 in one place.

The presence or absence of frost formation is determined by the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90. When the control device 90 determines that there is frost formation, the control device 90 shifts to the continuous heating operation mode. The operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines, for example, that the evaporation temperature detected by the first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93 and the second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94 has a value lower than a preset evaporation temperature threshold. In this case, it is determined that frost has formed. The evaporation temperature threshold value is stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the evaporation temperature threshold value stored in the storage unit 191 when making a determination.

Further, the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines, for example, when the saturation temperature converted from the suction pressure of the compressor 1 has significantly decreased from the set outside air temperature compared to a set outside air temperature set in advance. It may be determined that there is frost on the surface. The set outside air temperature is stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the set outside air temperature stored in the storage unit 191 when making a determination.

Further, the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines that frost has formed when, for example, the temperature difference between the outside air temperature and the evaporation temperature becomes a preset value or more and the elapsed time exceeds a certain time. You may. In this case, the outside temperature is detected by, for example, the first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93 and the second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94. Further, the evaporation temperature is calculated by converting the pressures detected by the first outdoor pressure sensor 91 and the second outdoor pressure sensor 92 by the control device 90, for example. The preset value is stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the value stored in the storage unit 191 when making a determination. Further, the elapsed time is measured by the clock section 192 of the control device 90.

The continuous heating operation mode is performed only when the room temperature detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 approaches a preset set temperature and the frequency of the compressor 1 is below a preset set frequency value. May be set. The set temperature and set frequency values are stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the set temperature and set frequency stored in the storage unit 191 when making a determination.

When the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines that the first parallel heat exchanger 41 or the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is in the frosted state during the normal heating operation mode, the operating state determination unit 190 performs a defrost operation to eliminate the frosted state. is deemed necessary. When the operating state determining unit 190 determines that defrosting is necessary, the switching device control unit 196 closes the first main switching device 71 or the second main switching device 72 corresponding to the heat exchanger to be defrosted. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the target of defrosting is the second parallel heat exchanger 42, the switchgear control unit 196 closes the second main switchgear 72 corresponding to the second parallel heat exchanger 42. .

Furthermore, when the target of defrosting is the second parallel heat exchanger 42, the switching device control unit 196 of the control device 90 opens the second sub-switching device 82, opens the flow rate adjustment device 7, and adjusts the degree of opening. Further, the switching device control unit 196 opens the first main switching device 71 corresponding to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functioning as an evaporator, and closes the first sub switching device 81. As a result, the defrost circuit connecting the compressor 1, flow rate adjustment device 7, second sub-switching device 82, and second parallel heat exchanger 42 is opened in order, and the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functions as an evaporator. , a continuous heating operation mode in which defrosting is performed in the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is started. Then, the opening/closing device control unit 196 further opens the first auxiliary opening/closing device 81 and the fourth opening/closing device, and opens the flow rate adjustment device 7 to a preset opening degree.

When the target of defrosting is the first parallel heat exchanger 41, the switchgear control unit 196 closes the first main switchgear 71 corresponding to the first parallel heat exchanger 41. Furthermore, when the target of defrosting is the first parallel heat exchanger 41, the switching device control unit 196 opens the first sub-switching device 81, opens the flow rate adjustment device 7, and adjusts the degree of opening. Further, the switching device control unit 196 opens the second main switching device 72 corresponding to the second parallel heat exchanger 42 functioning as an evaporator, and closes the second sub switching device 82. As a result, the defrost circuit connecting the compressor 1, flow rate adjustment device 7, first sub-switching device 81, and first parallel heat exchanger 41 is opened in order, and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 functions as an evaporator. , a continuous heating operation mode in which defrosting is performed in the first parallel heat exchanger 41 is started. Then, the opening/closing device control unit 196 further opens the first auxiliary opening/closing device 81 and the fourth opening/closing device, and opens the flow rate adjustment device 7 to a preset opening degree.

(Continuous humidification heating operation mode)
The continuous humidification/heating operation mode is an operation mode in which the indoor space is humidified during the normal heating operation mode or the continuous humidification/heating operation mode. Alternatively, the continuous humidification/heating operation mode is set when the operation state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines that humidification is necessary during the normal heating operation mode or the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, or when the operation mode is set in advance. This is performed when the continuous humidification/heating operation mode is set. In the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, some of the parallel heat exchangers are always subject to defrost, the control device 90 controls the heating device 32 and the conveyance device 33, and the humidification device 34 controls the air containing water vapor. This is an operation mode that discharges water into the indoor space.

The operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines that humidification is necessary, for example, when the indoor humidity detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 falls below a preset humidity value. Further, the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines that humidification is necessary, for example, when the continuous operating time in the normal heating operating mode or the continuous heating operating mode exceeds a preset set operating time. You may judge. The preset humidity value or the preset operating time is stored in advance in the storage section 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 uses the preset humidity value and the preset operating time stored in the storage section 191 for determination. Refer to the set operating time.

FIG. 9 shows a control flow of the humidification unit 30 in the continuous humidification/heating operation mode of the air conditioner 100 according to the embodiment. The operation of the humidifying unit in the continuous humidifying and heating operation mode will be described using FIG. 9.

In the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, the control device 90 acquires indoor humidity (step S1). The indoor humidity is the relative humidity of the indoor space detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97. The relative humidity detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 is received by the control device 90 .

The operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 calculates the required amount of humidification (kg/h) that is the amount of humidification necessary for the indoor space (step S2). The required humidification amount (kg/h) is the amount of humidification required in the indoor space during the normal heating operation mode or the continuous heating operation mode.

The required humidification amount (kg/h) is determined from the absolute humidity determined from the indoor temperature and relative humidity detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 installed indoors, and the set relative humidity and set temperature set in advance as targets. It is calculated based on the difference from the set absolute humidity and the capacity (horsepower) of the air conditioner 100. Specifically, the required humidification amount (kg/h) is determined by room volume x ventilation frequency x air density x required absolute humidity. Here, since the capacity of the air conditioner 100 is selected according to the volume of the room, the capacity of the room can be estimated from the capacity of the air conditioner 100. Note that the set relative humidity and temperature, or the set absolute humidity, and the capacity (horsepower) of the air conditioner 100 are stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 The set relative humidity, set temperature, or set absolute humidity stored in section 191 is referred to.

If the indoor unit 20 does not have the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97, the required humidification amount (kg/h) corresponding to the outdoor temperature detected by the first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93 or the second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94. may be determined in advance. By predetermining the required humidification amount (kg/h) corresponding to the outdoor temperature, the control device 90 can adjust the outdoor temperature detected by the first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93 or the second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94. Based on this, the required humidification amount (kg/h) can be determined. In addition, if you want to calculate the required humidification amount (kg/h) more accurately, the user should be able to set the approximate number of ventilations per hour using a remote control, etc., and calculate the required humidification amount (kg/h). The equation may be multiplied by the ventilation amount (m ³ /h) calculated from the set number of ventilations per hour.

After calculating the required humidification amount (kg/h), the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 calculates the water collection rate (kg/h) from the water collection amount obtained by defrosting and the time measured by the timer 192. ) is calculated (step S3). The amount of collected water is detected by a water level sensor 98 or a weight sensor 99. The amount of water collected may be determined by directly measuring the weight using a weight sensor 99 installed in the water collection device 31, or based on the water level detected using a water level sensor 98 installed inside the water collection device 31. It may be calculated by the control device 90. The water collection rate (kg/h) is the increase in the amount of water collected in the water collection device 31 per hour. The time for measuring the amount of increase in water is, for example, stored in advance in the storage unit 191 as a set time, and the timer unit 192 measures the set time.

Further, the amount of water collected is calculated based on the flow rate of air passing through the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 and the detection by the first outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 93 and the second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor 94. The absolute humidity of the air may be calculated based on the amount of change in the absolute humidity of the air. Note that the flow rate of air passing through the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is determined from the rotational speed of the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62.

The operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines whether the water collection rate (kg/h) in the water collection device 31 is the same as the calculated required humidification amount (kg/h) and the water collection rate (kg/h). h) exceeds the required humidification amount (kg/h) (step S4). That is, the operating state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 determines whether the water collection rate (kg/h) in the water collection device 31 is greater than or equal to the calculated required humidification amount (kg/h). Based on the result of comparing the water collection rate (kg/h) and the required humidification amount (kg/h), the control device 90 discharges air containing water vapor from the humidifier 34 or discharges air containing water vapor from the humidifying device 34. By stopping the discharge of the air from the humidifier 34, the amount of humidification by the humidifier 34 is controlled.

If the water collection rate (kg/h) is smaller than the required humidification amount (kg/h) (step S4 is NO), the heating device control unit 197 of the control device 90 causes the heating device 32 to perform heating. do not have. At this time, if the heating device 32 is heating, the heating device control section 197 stops the heating device 32, and the transport device control section 198 stops the transport device 33 (step S5).

Further, when the water collection speed (kg/h) is smaller than the required humidification amount (kg/h) (when step S4 is NO), the blower control unit 195 of the control device 90 controls the first outdoor blower 61 or The rotation speed of the second outdoor blower 62 is lowered to a preset rotation speed (step S6). If the control device 90 determines that the water collection rate (kg/h) is smaller than the required humidification amount (kg/h) (if step S4 is NO), the control device 90 operates the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower. 62 is lowered to a preset rotation speed, and the amount of frost formed on the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is increased.

The outdoor blower whose rotational speed is lowered is an outdoor blower that corresponds to the parallel heat exchanger serving as the evaporator. As will be described later, when the rotational speed of the outdoor blower corresponding to the parallel heat exchanger functioning as the evaporator is reduced, the amount of frost on the parallel heat exchanger functioning as the evaporator increases. The set number of rotations is stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the set quantity and set number of rotations stored in the storage unit 191 when making a determination. The set rotational speed of the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62 is such that, for example, when the water collection speed (kg/h) is lower than the required humidification amount (kg/h), the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62 The rotation speed is a certain value lower than the rotation speed at the start of operation of 62. Further, the set rotation speed of the first outdoor fan 61 and the second outdoor fan 62 is determined by the control device 90 to a target value such that the water collection speed (kg/h) and the required humidification amount (kg/h) are equal. It is even better to set the rotation speeds based on feedback control of the set rotation speeds of the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62, for example, PI control or PID control.

In addition, in order to continue the continuous humidification and heating operation mode, it is necessary to frost the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 and collect humidification water used for humidification. Frost is generated when water vapor around the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 loses heat to the low-temperature first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 . In order to increase the amount of frost on the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42, the blower control unit 195 lowers the rotation speed of the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62, and It is effective to lower the evaporation temperatures of the parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42.

The control device 90 stops the heating device 32 and the conveyance device 33 in step S5, returns to step S3, and calculates the water collection speed (kg/h) in the water collection device 31. Further, in step S6, the control device 90 reduces the rotation speed of the first outdoor blower 61 or the second outdoor blower 62 to a preset rotation speed, and then returns to step S3 to collect water in the water collection device 31. Calculate the water velocity (kg/h).

When the water collection speed (kg/h) in the water collection device 31 is the same as the calculated required humidification amount (kg/h), or when the water collection speed (kg/h) exceeds the required humidification amount (kg/h) (If step S4 is YES), the heating device control unit 197 drives the heating device 32 to heat and vaporize the water collected in the water collection device 31 to generate water vapor ( Step S7). In addition, if the water collection rate (kg/h) in the water collection device 31 is the same as the calculated required humidification amount (kg/h), or the water collection rate (kg/h) is the required humidification amount (kg/h). (step S4 is YES), the conveying device control unit 198 drives the conveying device 33 to convey the water vapor generated by the heating of the heating device 32 to the humidifying device 34 (step S4). S7).

The water vapor generated by the heating by the heating device 32 is conveyed by the conveying device 33 to the humidifying device 34 arranged in front of the indoor blower 63. The water vapor transported to the humidifier 34 is transported indoors by the air sent out by the indoor blower 63, and the room is humidified.

After driving the heating device 32 and the conveying device 33 in step S7, the control device 90 acquires the indoor humidity after a predetermined set time has elapsed (step S8). The indoor humidity is the relative humidity of the indoor space detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97. The relative humidity detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 is received by the control device 90 . The set time is stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the set time stored in the storage unit 191. Further, the elapsed time is measured by the clock section 192 of the control device 90.

After acquiring the indoor humidity after a lapse of a set time, the driving state determination unit 190 of the control device 90 compares the acquired indoor humidity with a predetermined target humidity (step S9). The target humidity is stored in advance in the storage unit 191 of the control device 90, and the control device 90 refers to the target humidity stored in the storage unit 191 when making a determination.

In step S9, if the operating state determination unit 190 determines that the indoor humidity is higher than "humidity 5% higher than the target humidity", or if the indoor humidity is lower than "humidity 5% lower than the target humidity" If it is determined (NO in step S9), the process returns to step S1.

In step S9, if the operating state determination unit 190 determines that the indoor humidity is within the range of "humidity 5% higher than the target humidity" and equal to or higher than "humidity 5% lower than the target humidity" (step S9 In the case of YES), the control device 90 stops the heating device 32 (step S10). Further, in step S9, if the operating state determination unit 190 determines that the indoor humidity is within the range of "humidity 5% higher than the target humidity" and equal to or higher than "humidity 5% lower than the target humidity" (step If S9 is YES), the control device 90 stops the transport device 33 (step S10). In step S9, if the control device 90 determines that the indoor humidity is within the range relative to the target humidity, the control device 90 stops the heating device 32 and the transport device 33, and stops the humidification unit 30 from humidifying the indoor space. Stop.

Next, the operation of the heat pump cycle in the continuous humidification/heating operation mode will be explained. The basic operation of the continuous humidifying heating operation mode and the Ph diagram that can be taken are the same as the continuous heating operation mode shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

When the air conditioner 100 is in a continuous humidification/heating operation mode that achieves both humidification and heating, the air conditioner 100 starts continuous heating operation regardless of whether or not there is frost on the parallel heat exchanger. Simultaneously with the continuous heating operation, the blower control unit 195 of the control device 90 controls the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower so that the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the parallel heat exchanger to be defrosted becomes below the frost point temperature in terms of saturation temperature. The air volume is controlled by adjusting the rotation speed of the outdoor blower 62. Simultaneously with the continuous heating operation, the compressor control unit 193 of the control device 90 controls the frequency of the compressor 1 so that the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the parallel heat exchanger to be defrosted becomes below the frost point temperature in terms of the saturation temperature. control. After the defrosting of one parallel heat exchanger is completed, the air conditioner 100 defrosts the other parallel heat exchanger.

More specifically, when entering the continuous humidification heating operation mode, the blower control unit 195 of the control device 90 lowers the rotation speed of the first outdoor blower 61 corresponding to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 targeted for frosting. . Further, the switching device control unit 196 opens the first main switching device 71 corresponding to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 functioning as an evaporator, and closes the first sub switching device 81.

Further, when the continuous humidification/heating operation mode is entered, the switching device control unit 196 of the control device 90 closes the second main switching device 72 corresponding to the second parallel heat exchanger 42 targeted for defrosting. Furthermore, the second sub-opening/closing device 82 is opened, and the flow rate adjustment device 7 is opened. In the air conditioner 100, through these steps, the defrost circuit connecting the compressor 1, the flow rate adjustment device 7, the second sub-switching device 82, and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is opened in order, and the continuous humidification heating operation mode is entered. will be started. Then, the opening/closing device control unit 196 of the control device 90 further opens the first auxiliary opening/closing device 81 and the second auxiliary opening/closing device 82, and the pressure reducing mechanism control unit 194 controls the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment device 7 to a preset opening degree. open at the same time.

If the first parallel heat exchanger 41 is to be defrosted and the second parallel heat exchanger 42 is to be frosted, the above operation is reversed. That is, when entering the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, the blower control unit 195 of the control device 90 lowers the rotation speed of the second outdoor blower 62 corresponding to the second parallel heat exchanger 42 targeted for frosting. Further, the switching device control unit 196 opens the second main switching device 72 corresponding to the second parallel heat exchanger 42 functioning as an evaporator, and closes the second sub switching device 82.

Furthermore, when the continuous humidification/heating operation mode is entered, the switching device control unit 196 of the control device 90 closes the first main switching device 71 corresponding to the first parallel heat exchanger 41 targeted for defrosting. Furthermore, the first sub-opening/closing device 81 is opened, and the flow rate adjustment device 7 is opened. In the air conditioner 100, through these steps, the defrost circuit connecting the compressor 1, the flow rate adjustment device 7, the first sub-switching device 81, and the first parallel heat exchanger 41 is opened in order, and the continuous humidification heating operation mode is activated. will be started. Then, the opening/closing device control unit 196 of the control device 90 further opens the first auxiliary opening/closing device 81 and the second auxiliary opening/closing device 82, and the pressure reducing mechanism control unit 194 controls the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment device 7 to a preset opening degree. open at the same time.

As described above, the air conditioner 100 calculates the required indoor humidification amount (kg/h) based on the indoor air temperature and indoor humidity. The control device 90 of the air conditioner 100 controls the air volume of the first outdoor blower 61, the second outdoor blower 62, etc. and the frequency of the compressor 1 so that the amount of frost formation and the required humidification amount (kg/h) are balanced. properly control.

Note that the water collected in the water collection device 31 by the operating state determination unit 190 is frozen based on detection information such as outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity by the first outdoor temperature and humidity sensor 93 and the second outdoor temperature and humidity sensor 94. If so, the control device 90 may drive the heating device 32. The heating device control unit 197 of the control device 90 adjusts the heating amount of the heating device 32 to melt frozen water.

Note that the actual humidification amount is obtained from the formula of air volume x absolute humidity difference x air density. The air volume can be calculated from the rotation speed of the indoor blower 63. The absolute humidity difference is determined from the difference between the absolute humidity of the air blown from the indoor unit 20 and the absolute humidity of the air sucked into the indoor unit 20. That is, the absolute humidity difference can be calculated from the temperature and humidity value at the blowout position of the indoor unit 20 and the temperature and humidity value at the suction position, which are obtained by the indoor temperature and humidity sensor 97. The air density is a substantially constant value and is stored in the storage unit 191 in advance.

The control device 90 controls the rotation speed of the indoor fan 63, the temperature and humidity detected by the indoor temperature and humidity sensor 97, the actual humidification amount (kg/h) derived from the preset air density, and the required humidification amount. (kg/h). The blower control unit 195 of the control device 90 controls the rotation speed of the indoor blower 63 so that the actual humidification amount (kg/h) approaches the required humidification amount (kg/h). The air conditioner 100 determines the difference between the required humidification amount (kg/h) and the actual humidification amount (kg/h), controls the rotation speed of the indoor fan 63, and brings both values closer together. In order to control the rotation speed of the indoor fan 63 and bring both values close to each other, the control device 90 sets the target value so that the actual humidification amount (kg/h) and the required humidification amount (kg/h) become equal. It is desirable to perform feedback control of the indoor blower 63, such as PI control or PID control.

[Effects of air conditioner 100]
The air conditioner 100 includes a water collection device 31 that collects water generated from a plurality of parallel heat exchangers such as a first parallel heat exchanger 41 and a second parallel heat exchanger 42, and water collected in the water collection device 31. It has a heating device 32 that heats and evaporates water. The air conditioner 100 also includes a conveying device 33 that conveys air containing water vapor produced by the heating device 32 to the indoor space, and a conveying device 33 that is arranged in the indoor space and contains the water vapor conveyed by the conveying device 33. It has a humidifier 34 that discharges air into the indoor space. Furthermore, the air conditioner 100 includes a control device 90, and the control device 90 has a continuous humidification/heating operation mode. In the continuous humidification/heating operation mode, the air conditioner 100 collects moisture obtained by defrosting, vaporizes it by heating, transports the vaporized air into the room, humidifies the room, and thereby, Heating operation can be performed while constantly humidifying the room. Therefore, the air conditioner 100 can perform heating and humidification simultaneously and continuously, and can improve the responsiveness to actually humidify the room by using melted frost as humidification water. In addition, if you do not use defrost and collect the condensed water generated by the outdoor unit during heating by natural falling, for example, when the outside temperature is 7°C or 6°C, the water will drop from the dry surface of the heat exchanger. It takes about 30 minutes for the water to drip and accumulate in the water collection device. The reason why it takes about 30 minutes for water to accumulate in the water collecting device from a dry surface of the heat exchanger is thought to be largely due to surface tension. Under the same conditions, it also takes time to store water in the water collection device 31 using frost formation and defrost, but this method is less affected by surface tension, so water can be stored faster than when defrost is not used. You can save. Therefore, when storing water in the water collecting device 31 using frost formation and defrost, the responsiveness until the room can be humidified can be made higher than when defrost is not used.

Furthermore, if defrost is not used when storing water in the water collection device, water used for humidification cannot be stably secured during winter heating operation due to frost formation. On the other hand, in the continuous humidification operation mode, the air conditioner 100 collects moisture obtained by defrosting, vaporizes it by heating, transports the vaporized air into the room, humidifies the room, and thereby , heating operation can be performed while constantly humidifying the room. The air conditioner 100 can stably secure water for humidification by using defrost even under frost conditions.

In addition, the control device 90 always defrosts some of the plurality of parallel heat exchangers, controls the heating device 32 and the conveyance device 33, and supplies air containing water vapor from the humidifier 34 to the indoor space. It has a continuous humidifying and heating operation mode. When transporting the collected water stored in the water collection device 31 in a liquid state, an evaporation device is required on the indoor unit 20 side, and the casing size of the humidifier 34 must be increased to accommodate it in the indoor unit 20. There is a need to. Since the air conditioner 100 transports the collected water in the vapor state rather than in the liquid state, there is no need for an evaporation device on the indoor unit 20 side. The housing size can be reduced. Since the air conditioner 100 transports the collected water not in a liquid state but in a steam state, there is no need to use a pump for transporting the liquid, which can reduce costs.

The air conditioner 100 also includes a heating device 32 that heats and evaporates water collected in the water collection device 31. Since the air conditioner 100 uses condensed water from outdoor heat exchangers such as the first parallel heat exchanger 41 and the second parallel heat exchanger 42, the water once collected is heated to about 60°C to 80°C for sanitary reasons. It must be heated to a maximum temperature and sterilized. The air conditioner 100 can humidify the indoor space by converting the water stored in the water collection device 31 into steam using the heating device 32, and can also sterilize the water used for humidification.

The air conditioner 100 also includes an indoor temperature/humidity sensor 97 that detects the indoor temperature and indoor humidity of the indoor space. The operating state determination unit 190 determines the required humidification amount (kg/h), which is the amount of humidification necessary for the indoor space, based on the indoor temperature and indoor humidity detected by the indoor temperature and humidity sensor during the continuous humidification and heating operation mode. calculate. The operating state determination unit 190 then calculates the required amount of humidification, which is the amount of humidification necessary for the indoor space, calculated based on the indoor temperature and indoor humidity detected by the indoor temperature and humidity sensor 97, and the amount of humidification collected in the water collection device 31. Compare the water collection rate, which is the increase in the amount of water collected per hour. Based on the result, the control device 90 discharges the air containing water vapor from the humidifier 34 or stops discharging the air containing water vapor from the humidifier 34 . Controls the amount of humidification. Therefore, the air conditioner 100 can perform heating and humidification simultaneously and continuously, and can keep the room at a comfortable temperature and humidity.

In addition, if the water collection rate (kg/h) is the same as the required humidification amount (kg/h) or exceeds the required humidification amount (kg/h), the control device 90 controls the heating device 32 and the conveying device. 33 is driven. When the water collection rate (kg/h) is the same as the required humidification amount (kg/h), even if heating is performed by the heating device 32, the evaporation amount and the water collection amount are the same, and the water collection device 31 The water does not decrease. When the water collection rate (kg/h) exceeds the required humidification amount (kg/h), even if heating is performed by the heating device 32, the water collection amount exceeds the evaporation amount. Therefore, the air conditioner 100 can perform heating and humidification simultaneously and continuously, and can keep the room at a comfortable temperature and humidity.

Further, if the water collection rate (kg/h) is smaller than the required humidification amount (kg/h), the control device 90 stops the heating device 32 and the conveying device 33, and The rotational speed of a plurality of outdoor blowers such as the second outdoor blower 62 is lowered to a preset rotational speed. When the water collection rate (kg/h) is smaller than the required humidification amount (kg/h), when heating is performed by the heating device 32, the amount of evaporation exceeds the amount of water collected. Therefore, when the water collection rate (kg/h) is smaller than the required humidification amount (kg/h), the control device 90 stops heating by the heating device 32, and the air conditioner 100 32 can be prevented from being supplied with more power than necessary, and the water collection device 31 can be prevented from being in a dry state. Furthermore, by lowering the rotation speed of the outdoor blower corresponding to the parallel heat exchanger that functions as an evaporator, the amount of frost formed on the parallel heat exchanger that functions as an evaporator can be increased, and the amount of water collected can be increased.

The air conditioner 100 also includes a water level sensor 98 that is attached to the water collection device 31 and measures the water level of the water collection device 31, and the control device 90 derives the water collection speed based on the water level detected by the water level sensor 98. Measure the amount of water used for water collection. Therefore, the air conditioner 100 can identify the amount of water collected by a simple means.

The air conditioner 100 also includes a weight sensor 99 that is attached to the water collection device 31 and detects the weight of water collected in the water collection device 31, and the control device 90 controls the weight of the water detected by the weight sensor 99. Measure the amount of water collected, which is used to derive the water collection rate. Therefore, the air conditioner 100 can identify the amount of water collected by a simple means.

The air conditioner 100 also includes outdoor temperature and humidity sensors such as a first outdoor temperature and humidity sensor 93 and a second outdoor temperature and humidity sensor 94 that are attached to a plurality of parallel heat exchangers and detect outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity. Equipped with. The control device 90 then determines the rotational speed of a plurality of outdoor blowers such as the first outdoor blower 61 and the second outdoor blower 62, and the amount of change in the absolute humidity of the air calculated based on the detection by the outdoor temperature and humidity sensor. Based on this, the water collection amount used to derive the water collection rate is determined. In the air conditioner 100, since there is no need to newly provide a detection device to the water collection device 31, material costs, manufacturing costs, etc. can be reduced compared to the case where a detection device is provided to the water collection device 31.

The control device 90 also controls the rotation speed of the indoor fan 63, the temperature and humidity detected by the indoor temperature and humidity sensor 97, and the actual humidification amount (kg/h) derived from the preset air density, and the necessary Compare the amount of humidification (kg/h). The blower control unit 195 of the control device 90 controls the rotation speed of the indoor blower 63 so that the actual humidification amount (kg/h) approaches the required humidification amount (kg/h). The air conditioner 100 determines the difference between the required humidification amount (kg/h) and the actual humidification amount (kg/h), controls the rotation speed of the indoor fan 63, and brings the two values closer to each other to increase the required humidification amount. Ensuring sufficient humidification.

In addition, the heating device 32 heats and evaporates the water collected in the water collection device 31 in the continuous humidification heating operation mode, and when the water collected in the water collection device 31 is frozen, it freezes. It is used to dissolve water. Therefore, by including the heating device 32, the air conditioner 100 can generate water vapor for humidifying the indoor space, and can prevent the water collected in the water collecting device 31 from freezing.

The air conditioner 100 also has a conveyance hose 36 that connects the water collection device 31 and the humidifier 34 and through which air containing water vapor passes. A drainage device 35 is provided for discharging water. The air conditioner 100 is equipped with the drainage device 35, so that when condensed water or the like accumulates in the transport hose 36, the accumulated water can be discharged.

The configurations shown in the embodiments described above are examples of the contents of the present disclosure, and can be combined with other known technologies, and the configurations can be modified without departing from the gist of the present disclosure. It is also possible to omit or change parts.

1 Compressor, 2 Flow path switching device, 3 Pressure reducing device, 5 Indoor heat exchanger, 7 Flow rate adjustment device, 10 Outdoor unit, 13 Merging section, 14 Refrigerant circuit, 15 Main circuit, 16 Refrigerant piping, 18 Bypass circuit, 20 indoor unit, 21 first extension piping, 22 second extension piping, 23 discharge piping, 24 suction piping, 25 first connection piping, 26 second connection piping, 27 bypass piping, 28 parallel piping, 30 humidification unit, 31 water collection device, 32 heating device, 33 conveyance device, 34 humidification device, 34a discharge port, 35 drainage device, 36 conveyance hose, 41 first parallel heat exchanger, 42 second parallel heat exchanger, 61 first outdoor blower, 62 2 outdoor blower, 63 indoor blower, 71 first main switching device, 72 second main switching device, 81 first sub-switching device, 82 second sub-switching device, 90 control device, 91 first outdoor pressure sensor, 92 second Outdoor pressure sensor, 93 First outdoor temperature/humidity sensor, 94 Second outdoor temperature/humidity sensor, 95 Indoor pressure sensor, 96 Temperature sensor, 97 Indoor temperature/humidity sensor, 98 Water level sensor, 99 Weight sensor, 100 Air conditioner, 190 Operation State determination section, 191 Storage section, 192 Timing section, 193 Compressor control section, 194 Decompression mechanism control section, 195 Air blower control section, 196 Opening/closing device control section, 197 Heating device control section, 198 Conveying device control section.

Claims (10)

A main circuit in which a refrigerant circulates, which includes a compressor, a flow path switching device, an indoor heat exchanger, a pressure reduction device, and a plurality of parallel heat exchangers connected in parallel with each other, connected by refrigerant piping;
a bypass circuit that connects the discharge side of the compressor and the plurality of parallel heat exchangers, and includes a bypass pipe through which a part of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor branches and flows;
a flow rate adjustment device provided in the bypass piping and adjusting the flow rate of the refrigerant discharged by the compressor;
an indoor blower that sends indoor air to the indoor heat exchanger;
a plurality of outdoor blowers, each of which is arranged corresponding to the plurality of parallel heat exchangers, and which sends air to each of the plurality of parallel heat exchangers;
a water collection device that collects water generated from the plurality of parallel heat exchangers;
a heating device that heats and evaporates the water collected in the water collection device;
a conveying device that conveys air containing water vapor produced by the heating device to an indoor space;
a humidifier that is disposed in the indoor space and discharges the water vapor-containing air transported by the transport device to the indoor space;
a control device that controls the compressor, the flow path switching device, the pressure reducing device, the indoor blower, the plurality of outdoor blowers, the heating device, and the conveying device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
Continuous humidification in which a part of the plurality of parallel heat exchangers is always subject to defrost, the heating device and the conveying device are controlled, and the air containing the water vapor is discharged from the humidifying device to the indoor space. An air conditioner with a heating operation mode. It has an indoor temperature and humidity sensor that detects the indoor temperature and indoor humidity of the indoor space,
The control device includes:
a required amount of humidification that is the amount of humidification necessary for the indoor space calculated based on the indoor temperature and the indoor humidity detected by the indoor temperature and humidity sensor during the continuous humidification and heating operation mode, and the water collection device Based on the comparison result, the air containing the water vapor is discharged from the humidifier, or the air containing the water vapor is discharged from the humidifier. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the amount of humidification by the humidifier is controlled by stopping discharge of air from the humidifier. The control device includes:
The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the heating device and the conveyance device are driven when the water collection speed is the same as the required humidification amount or exceeds the required humidification amount. The control device includes:
2. If the water collection speed is lower than the required humidification amount, the heating device and the conveying device are stopped, and the rotation speed of the plurality of outdoor blowers is reduced to a preset rotation speed. Or the air conditioner according to 3. A water level sensor attached to the water collection device and measuring the water level of the water collection device,
The control device includes:
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the water collection amount used for deriving the water collection rate is measured based on the water level detected by the water level sensor. a weight sensor attached to the water collection device to detect the weight of water collected in the water collection device;
The control device includes:
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the water collection amount used for deriving the water collection rate is measured based on the weight of water detected by the weight sensor. an outdoor temperature/humidity sensor attached to the plurality of parallel heat exchangers to detect outdoor temperature and outdoor humidity;
The control device includes:
Claim 2, wherein the water collection amount used for deriving the water collection speed is determined based on the rotational speed of the plurality of outdoor blowers and the amount of change in absolute humidity of the air calculated based on detection by the outdoor temperature and humidity sensor. The air conditioner according to any one of items 6 to 6. The control device includes:
The actual humidification amount is compared with the actual humidification amount derived from the rotation speed of the indoor blower, the temperature and humidity detected by the indoor temperature/humidity sensor, and a preset air density, and the actual humidification amount is determined. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the rotational speed of the indoor blower is controlled so that the amount of humidification approaches the required amount of humidification. The heating device includes:
In the continuous humidification and heating operation mode, the water collected in the water collection device is heated and evaporated, and if the water collected in the water collection device is frozen, it is used to melt the frozen water. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which is used. a conveyance hose connecting the water collection device and the humidification device and through which air containing the water vapor passes;
The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the transport hose is provided with a drainage device for discharging water condensed inside the transport hose.

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