JP7611511B2 - Ventilation system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a ventilation device.

As an example of a ventilation device, Patent Document 1 discloses an air conditioner that can perform a humidification operation to supply humidified air from an outdoor unit to an indoor unit.

Patent document 1 discloses an air conditioner with a humidification function that blows humidified air supplied from outside into a room. The air conditioner described in patent document 1 is characterized by having a humidity sensor located near the connection of the humidification hose that transports the humidified air.

JP 2001-91000 A

However, the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of improving ventilation functions.

Therefore, the objective of this disclosure is to provide a ventilation device that can improve ventilation function by solving the above problems.

The ventilation device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first flow path connecting a first inlet/outlet connected to the outside of the room and a second inlet/outlet connected to the inside of the room, a fan arranged in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction for generating an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction for generating an air flow from the inside to the outside of the room, an absorbent arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet/outlet side than the fan and absorbing moisture in the air, and a heater arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet/outlet side than the absorbent and heating the air heading toward the absorbent, and executes operation modes including a humidification operation in which the heater heats the outdoor air and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent and heads toward the room, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air heads toward the outside of the room, and the fan rotates in the first rotation direction in the humidification operation and in the exhaust ventilation operation the fan rotates in the second rotation direction.

An air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a ventilation device, and the ventilation device is disposed in the outdoor unit.

This disclosure can improve ventilation function.

Schematic diagram of an air conditioner including a ventilation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Schematic diagram of ventilation system Top view of vortex fan A cross-sectional view of the vortex blower fan taken along line AA in FIG. Diagram showing the intake ventilation operation of the ventilation system Diagram showing exhaust ventilation operation of the ventilation system Diagram showing humidification operation of the ventilation system Diagram showing dehumidification operation of the ventilation system Diagram showing regeneration operation of the ventilation system

(Background to this disclosure)
Conventional ventilation devices perform an intake ventilation operation to send outdoor air from the outside into the room. The intake ventilation operation allows fresh outdoor air to be sent into the room.

However, in the intake ventilation operation, it is difficult to efficiently exhaust polluted indoor air to the outside. For example, polluted indoor air includes air containing particles such as PM2.5 or having a high concentration of gas such as _CO2 . Therefore, there is a demand for the execution of exhaust ventilation operation that efficiently exhausts indoor air to the outside.

Therefore, the inventors have discovered a ventilation device configuration that can change the air flow in the ventilation device and perform both intake ventilation operation and exhaust ventilation operation.

Based on these new findings, the inventors have come to the following disclosure.

The ventilation device of the first aspect of the present disclosure includes a first flow path connecting a first inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet/outlet connected to the indoor side, a fan arranged in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction that generates an air flow from the outdoor side to the indoor side and a second rotation direction that generates an air flow from the indoor side to the outdoor side, an absorbent arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet/outlet side than the fan and absorbing moisture in the air, and a heater arranged in the first flow path closer to the first inlet/outlet side than the absorbent and heating the air heading toward the absorbent, and executes operation modes including a humidification operation in which the heater heats the outdoor air and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent and heads toward the indoor side, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air heads toward the outdoor side, and the fan rotates in the first rotation direction in the humidification operation and in the exhaust ventilation operation the fan rotates in the second rotation direction.

With this configuration, the ventilation device can perform a humidification operation in which humidified outdoor air is sent into the room, as well as an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air is blown out to the outside, improving the ventilation function.

In the ventilation device of the second aspect of the present disclosure, the operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater is stopped and moisture is collected by the absorbent material and the dry outdoor air is directed into the room, and in the dehumidification operation, the fan may rotate in the first rotation direction.

With this configuration, the ventilation device can further perform a dehumidification operation to send dried outdoor air into the room, improving the ventilation function.

The ventilation device of the third aspect of the present disclosure further includes a second flow path connected between the fan and the absorbent material in the first flow path, and a first damper disposed at a position where the first flow path and the second flow path are connected, and the second flow path is provided with a third inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side, and the first damper may switch the direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the second flow path.

This configuration allows the second inlet/outlet to be connected to the third inlet/outlet without passing through the absorbent material.

In the ventilation device of the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the first damper may switch the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet/outlet to the first flow path in a first direction toward the second inlet/outlet through the first flow path in a humidification operation, and may switch the flow direction of the indoor air flowing from the second inlet/outlet to the first flow path in a second direction toward the third inlet/outlet through the second flow path in an exhaust ventilation operation.

This configuration allows indoor air to be discharged to the outside through the second flow path without passing through the absorbent material.

In the ventilation device of the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating mode further includes an intake ventilation operation in which air is supplied from the outside to the inside of the room, and in the intake ventilation operation, the fan rotates in a first rotation direction, and the first damper may switch the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the third inlet/outlet to the second flow path to a third direction toward the second inlet/outlet through the first flow path.

This configuration allows outdoor air to be sent into the room through the second flow path without passing through the absorbent material.

The ventilation device of the sixth aspect of the present disclosure may further include a controller for a user to select an operation mode, and the operation mode selected by the user may be executed via the controller.

This configuration allows the user to select the operating mode they want to run on the ventilation device.

The ventilation device of the seventh aspect of the present disclosure further includes a third flow path connected between the fan and the second inlet/outlet in the first flow path, and a second damper disposed at a position where the first flow path and the third flow path are connected, and the third flow path is provided with a fourth inlet/outlet connected to the outside of the room, and the second damper may switch the direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the third flow path.

With this configuration, the outdoor air flowing through the first flow path can be discharged to the outside through the third flow path.

In the ventilation device of the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating mode further includes a regeneration operation in which the absorbent material is dried by heated outdoor air, and in the regeneration operation, the fan rotates in a first rotation direction, and the second damper may switch the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet/outlet to the first flow path to a fourth direction toward the fourth inlet/outlet through the third flow path.

With this configuration, regeneration operation can be further performed to regenerate the absorbent material.

In the ventilator of the ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation may be performed alternately.

This configuration allows dehumidification operation to be performed continuously and intermittently.

In the ventilation device of the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the fan may be a vortex fan.

This configuration increases pressure and improves fan efficiency.

In the ventilation device of the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the absorbent material may be a polymeric sorption material.

This configuration allows the material to absorb moisture quickly, release the moisture at a low heating temperature, and retain moisture for a long period of time.

The air conditioner of the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure comprises an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a ventilation device, and the ventilation device is disposed in the outdoor unit.

This configuration improves the ventilation function of the air conditioner.

The ventilator of the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a ventilator for an air conditioner having an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and is equipped with a flow path connecting a first inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet/outlet connected to the indoor side, and a fan disposed in the flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction that generates an air flow from the outdoors to the indoors and a second rotation direction that generates an air flow from the indoors to the outdoors.

With this configuration, the air conditioner can perform an intake ventilation operation to send outdoor air into the room, as well as an exhaust ventilation operation to blow indoor air outside, improving the ventilation function.

(Embodiment)
An air conditioner will be described as an example of a configuration including a ventilation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[Overall configuration]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner 1 including a ventilation device 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 1, the air conditioner 1 according to this embodiment includes an indoor unit 10, an outdoor unit 20, and a ventilation device 30. The indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit 20 are connected via a refrigerant pipe 50. The ventilation device 30 is disposed outdoors. The ventilation device 30 may also be disposed in the outdoor unit 20. For example, the ventilation device 30 is disposed on the upper surface of the outer casing of the outdoor unit 20.

<Indoor unit>
The indoor unit 10 includes a first heat exchanger 11, an indoor fan 12, an air outlet 13, and a part of the refrigerant piping 50. The indoor unit 10 is placed in a room to be air-conditioned. The first heat exchanger 11 exchanges heat with air. The indoor fan 12 blows the air, the temperature of which has been adjusted by the first heat exchanger 11, into the room through the air outlet 13.

<Outdoor unit>
The outdoor unit 20 includes a second heat exchanger 21, an outdoor fan 22, a compressor 23, an expansion valve 24, and a part of the refrigerant piping 50. The outdoor unit 20 is disposed outside the room, which is defined by a wall K from the room. The second heat exchanger 21 exchanges heat with the air. The outdoor fan 22 blows the air, the temperature of which has been adjusted by the second heat exchanger 21, toward the outside of the room. The compressor 23 compresses the refrigerant that has flowed in from the refrigerant piping 50, and the expansion valve 24 expands the refrigerant that has flowed in from the refrigerant piping 50. The flow direction of the refrigerant may be changed, for example, by using a four-way valve depending on the operation mode (cooling operation, heating operation) of the air conditioner 1.

The refrigerant piping 50 has a flow path through which the refrigerant flows inside the refrigerant piping 50, and circulates the refrigerant. The refrigerant piping 50 is arranged to connect the first heat exchanger 11, the compressor 23, the second heat exchanger 21, and the expansion valve 24.

Next, the components of the ventilation device 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the ventilation device 30.

<Ventilation equipment>
In this embodiment, the ventilation device 30 includes a housing 31, a first flow path P1, a second flow path P2, a third flow path P3, a heater 32, an absorbent material 33, a fan 34, a first damper 35, a second damper 36, and a controller 37.

<Case>
2, the housing 31 is a member that houses components of the ventilation device 30 and constitutes the external appearance of the ventilation device 30. The housing 31 is also provided with a plurality of inlet/outlet ports. Air flows into or out of the housing 31 through the plurality of inlet/outlet ports. More specifically, the housing 31 is provided with a first inlet/outlet E1, a second inlet/outlet E2, a third inlet/outlet E3, and a fourth inlet/outlet E4.

The first inlet/outlet E1, the third inlet/outlet E3, and the fourth inlet/outlet E4 are connected to the outside of the room. The first inlet/outlet E1, the third inlet/outlet E3, and the fourth inlet/outlet E4 are, for example, openings that penetrate the side wall of the housing 31 that is placed outside the room.

The second inlet/outlet E2 is connected to the indoor side. The second inlet/outlet E2 may be indirectly connected to the indoor side. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the second inlet/outlet E2 is connected to the indoor unit 10 via piping 60 and communicates with the room through the air outlet 13 of the indoor unit 10.

<First flow path>
As shown in FIG. 2, the first flow path P1 is a flow path formed inside the housing 31 and through which air flows. For example, the first flow path P1 is a space defined by the inner wall of the housing 31. The first flow path P1 may also be a flow path formed by piping arranged in the housing 31. The first flow path P1 connects the first inlet/outlet E1 and the second inlet/outlet E2. The second flow path P2 and the third flow path P3 are connected to the first flow path P1. The second flow path P2 is connected to the first flow path P1 between the absorbent material 33 and the fan 34 described later. The second flow path P2 is connected to the first flow path P1 between the fan 34 and the second inlet/outlet E2 described later.

Here, we define indoor air and outdoor air. As shown in Figure 1, the air that exists in the indoor space that is defined by wall K and is the target of air conditioning is called indoor air. On the other hand, the air that exists in the outdoor space that is isolated from the indoor space by wall K is called outdoor air.

<Heater>
As shown in Fig. 2, the heater 32 is disposed in the first flow path P1 and heats the air moving toward the absorbent 33. For example, the heater 32 heats the outdoor air flowing into the housing 31 from the first inlet/outlet E1. The heater 32 may be a heater whose electrical resistance increases when a current flows and the temperature increases. For example, the heater 32 is a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater that can suppress an excessive increase in the heating temperature. In the case of a PTC heater, the heater 32 itself adjusts the heating temperature within a certain temperature range, so there is no need to monitor the heating temperature.

<Absorbing material>
The absorbent 33 is a member through which the outdoor air can pass and which absorbs moisture from the outdoor air passing therethrough or imparts moisture to the outdoor air passing therethrough. The absorbent 33 is disposed in the first flow path P1 farther from the first inlet/outlet E1 than the heater 32. The absorbent 33 may have a disk-like shape and may rotate around a center. During operation of the ventilation device 30, the absorbent 33 may continue to rotate at a constant rotational speed.

The absorbent 33 may be made of a polymeric adsorbent that adsorbs moisture in the air. The polymeric adsorbent is, for example, made of cross-linked sodium polyacrylate. Compared to adsorbents such as silica gel and zeolite, the polymeric adsorbent has a higher rate of absorbing moisture, can release the moisture it holds at a low heating temperature, and can retain moisture for a long period of time.

<Fans>
The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1 and generates an air flow in the first flow path P1. The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1 farther from the first inlet/outlet E1 than the heater 32 and the absorbent material 33. The fan 34 may be disposed in the housing 31 such that the rotation axis of the fan 34 is aligned along a direction from the top surface to the bottom surface of the housing 31.

The fan 34 can change its rotation direction. More specifically, the fan 34 can change its rotation direction between a first rotation direction X1 that generates an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room, and a second rotation direction X2 that generates an air flow from the inside to the outside of the room. In the embodiment, the first rotation direction X1 is clockwise, and the second rotation direction X2 is counterclockwise.

For example, fan 34 is the vortex fan shown in Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 3A is a top view of the vortex fan, and Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the vortex fan taken along line A-A in Figure 3A.

3A and 3B, the fan 34 includes an impeller 41 and a casing 42. A flow path 43 through which air flows is formed between the impeller 41 and the casing 42. The impeller 41 has a plurality of blades 44 spaced apart from each other. The rotation direction of the impeller 41 is changeable. The casing 42 is provided with two inlet/outlets 45 and 46 connected to the flow path 43. The inlet/outlets 45 and 46 are connected to the first flow path P1. The inlet/outlets 45 and 46 are oriented in directions parallel to each other. In addition, the flow path 43 between the inlet/outlets 45 and 46 is narrow. This configuration can prevent air leakage and improve the efficiency of the fan 34.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the blades 44 are plate-shaped members extending radially outward from the center of rotation of the fan 34. The blades 44 may extend along radial straight lines extending outward from the center of rotation of the fan 34. When the impeller 41 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, the blades 44 can send air from the inlet outlet 45 to the inlet outlet 46. Although not shown, when the impeller 41 rotates in the second rotation direction X2, the blades 44 can send air from the inlet outlet 46 to the inlet outlet 45. With this configuration, the fan 34 can send air in different directions. In addition, compared to other fans whose rotation direction can be changed, the fan 34 can easily generate a pressure rise. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent foreign matter such as dust from accumulating in the flow path 43.

<First damper>
The first damper 35 is a member that switches the direction of air flow in the housing 31. As shown in Fig. 2, the first damper 35 is disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 are connected to each other.

The first damper 35 is rotatable. By rotating the first damper 35 in one direction, the second flow path P2 can be closed, and the first inlet/outlet E1 can be connected to the second inlet/outlet E2 or the fourth inlet/outlet E4. By rotating the first damper 35 in the other direction, the first flow path P1 on the first inlet/outlet E1 side can be closed, and the second inlet/outlet E2 can be connected to the third inlet/outlet E3.

<Second damper>
The second damper 36 is a member that switches the direction of air flow in the housing 31. As shown in Fig. 2, the second damper 36 is disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the third flow path P3 are connected to each other.

The second damper 36 is rotatable. By rotating the second damper 36 in one direction, the third flow path P3 is closed, and the second inlet/outlet E2 is connected to the first inlet/outlet E1 or the third inlet/outlet E3. By rotating the second damper 36 in the other direction, the first flow path P1 on the second inlet/outlet E2 side is closed, and the first inlet/outlet E1 is connected to the fourth inlet/outlet E4.

<Controller>
The controller 37 controls the operation modes described below in the ventilation device 30. The elements constituting the controller 37 may include, for example, a memory (not shown) that stores a program that causes these elements to function, and a processing circuit (not shown) corresponding to a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the processor may execute the program to function as these elements. More specifically, the controller 37 controls the rotation direction of the fan 34 and the rotation of the first damper 35 and the second damper 36.

The user selects an operation mode from multiple operation modes of the ventilation device 30 via the controller 37. The controller 37 executes one operation mode selected by the user. For example, when the user selects the operation of the ventilation device 30, the controller 37 executes a humidification operation, a dehumidification operation, and a ventilation operation. Note that the regeneration operation is executed based on the duration of the dehumidification operation and the amount of moisture held by the absorbent 33, rather than on the user's operation.

Next, the operation modes of the ventilation device 30 will be described with reference to Figs. 4 to 8. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the intake ventilation operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the exhaust ventilation operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the humidification operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the dehumidification operation of the ventilation device 30. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the regeneration operation of the ventilation device 30.

<Intake ventilation operation>
In the intake ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outdoor air is sent into the room. The intake ventilation operation is performed in a state where the heater 32 is stopped (OFF state). The first damper 35 closes the first flow path P1 on the first inlet/outlet E1 side, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

As shown in FIG. 4, outdoor air flows from the outside into the second flow path P2 through the third inlet/outlet E3, and is caused to flow toward the first flow path P1 by the first damper 35. The outdoor air then passes through the fan 34, and is caused to flow toward the inside of the room through the first flow path P1 and the second inlet/outlet E2 by the second damper 36.

<Exhaust ventilation operation>
In the exhaust ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in the second rotation direction X2, and the indoor air is blown out to the outside. In the intake ventilation operation, the heater 32 is stopped (OFF state). The first damper 35 closes the first flow path P1 on the first inlet/outlet E1 side, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

As shown in FIG. 5, indoor air flows from the room into the first flow path P1 through the second inlet/outlet E2, and is urged by the second damper 36 to flow through the first flow path P1 toward the fan 34. The indoor air passes through the fan 34, and is urged by the first damper 35 to flow through the second flow path P2 and the third inlet/outlet E3 toward the outside.

<Humidification operation>
In the humidifying operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outside air is sent into the room. In the heating operation, the heater 32 is operated (ON state). The first damper 35 closes the second flow path P2, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

As shown in FIG. 6, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the first flow path P1 through the first inlet/outlet E1. The outdoor air is heated by the heater 32, and the heated outdoor air removes moisture held by the absorbent material 33. The humidified outdoor air flows toward the room through the first flow path P1 and the second inlet/outlet E2 by the first damper 35 and the second damper 36.

<Dehumidification operation>
In the dehumidifying operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outside air is sent into the room. The dehumidifying operation is performed in a state where the heater 32 is stopped (OFF state). The first damper 35 closes the second flow path P2, and the second damper 36 closes the third flow path P3.

As shown in FIG. 7, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the first flow path P1 through the first inlet/outlet E1. The outdoor air passes through the absorbent material 33 without being heated by the heater 32, and moisture in the outdoor air is thus captured by the absorbent material 33. The dried outdoor air flows toward the room through the first flow path P1 and the second inlet/outlet E2 by the first damper 35 and the second damper 36.

When the dehumidification operation continues, the absorbent 33 continues to capture moisture from the outdoor air. As a result, the absorbent 33 may reach a saturated state where it can no longer retain moisture. In this case, a regeneration operation is performed to regenerate the collection capacity of the absorbent 33.

<Regeneration operation>
In the regeneration operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the outdoor air is blown out to the outside. The regeneration operation is performed in a state in which the heater 32 is activated (ON state). The first damper 35 closes the second flow path P2, and the second damper 36 closes the first flow path P1 on the second inlet/outlet E2 side.

As shown in FIG. 8, outdoor air flows from the outside of the room into the first flow path P1 through the first inlet/outlet E1. The outdoor air is heated by the heater 32, and the heated air removes moisture held by the absorbent 33. This dries the absorbent 33, and its moisture collection capacity is restored. The humidified outdoor air is caused by the second damper 36 to flow toward the outside of the room through the third flow path P3 and the fourth inlet/outlet E4.

The regeneration operation is performed in conjunction with the dehumidification operation. Specifically, the regeneration operation is performed when the duration of the dehumidification operation is longer than the time it takes for the absorbent 33 to become saturated. In this case, the dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation are performed alternately. This allows the dehumidification operation to continue intermittently.

The direction in which air flows during humidification and dehumidification operation may be referred to as the "first direction," the direction in which air flows during exhaust ventilation operation may be referred to as the "second direction," the direction in which air flows during intake ventilation operation may be referred to as the "third direction," and the direction in which air flows during regeneration operation may be referred to as the "fourth direction."

[effect]
The ventilation device 30 according to the embodiment can provide the following effects.

The ventilation device 30 includes a first flow path P1, a heater 32, an absorbent 33, and a fan 34. The first flow path P1 connects a first inlet/outlet E1 connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet/outlet E2 connected to the indoor side. The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1 and can change between a first rotation direction X1 that generates an air flow from the outside to the indoor side and a second rotation direction X2 that generates an air flow from the indoor side to the outdoor side. The absorbent 33 is disposed on the first inlet/outlet E1 side of the fan 34 in the first flow path P1 and absorbs moisture in the air. The heater 32 is disposed on the first inlet/outlet E1 side of the absorbent 33 in the first flow path P1 and heats the air that is directed toward the absorbent 33. The ventilation device 30 executes operation modes including a humidification operation in which the heater 32 heats outdoor air, and the heated outdoor air takes moisture from the absorbent and is directed toward the indoor side, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air is directed toward the outdoor side. In humidification operation, the fan 34 rotates in a first rotation direction X1, and in exhaust ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in a second rotation direction X2.

With this configuration, the ventilation device 30 can perform both a humidification operation in which humidified outdoor air is sent into the room, and an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air is blown outside, improving the ventilation function. In the exhaust ventilation operation, dirty indoor air can be easily exhausted to the outside, improving the cleanliness of the indoor air.

The operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater 32 is stopped, moisture is collected by the absorbent material 33, and the dry outdoor air is directed into the room. In the dehumidification operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1.

With this configuration, the ventilation device 30 can further perform a dehumidification operation to send dried outdoor air into the room, improving the ventilation function.

The ventilation device 30 further includes a second flow path P2 connected between the fan 34 and the absorbent material 33 in the first flow path P1, and a first damper 35 arranged at a position where the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 are connected. The second flow path P2 is provided with a third inlet/outlet E3 connected to the outdoor side. The first damper 35 switches the direction of the air flowing through the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2.

With this configuration, the fan 34 can be connected to the outside of the room via the second flow path P2. Also, the second inlet/outlet E2 and the third inlet/outlet E3 can be connected to each other without passing through the absorbent material 33.

In humidification operation, the first damper 35 switches the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet/outlet E1 to the first flow path P1 to a first direction toward the second inlet/outlet E2 through the first flow path P1. In exhaust ventilation operation, the first damper 35 switches the flow direction of the indoor air flowing from the second inlet/outlet E2 to the first flow path P1 to a second direction toward the third inlet/outlet E3 through the second flow path P2.

This configuration allows indoor air to be discharged to the outside through the second flow path P2 without passing through the absorbent material 33. This prevents contaminants such as fine particles and gases contained in the indoor air from adhering to the absorbent material 33.

The operation modes further include an intake ventilation operation in which air is supplied from the outside to the inside of the room. In the intake ventilation operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the first damper 35 switches the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the third inlet/outlet E3 to the second flow path P2 to a third direction toward the second inlet/outlet E2 through the first flow path P1.

This configuration allows the outdoor air to be sent into the room through the second flow path P2 without passing through the absorbent material 33. Therefore, during intake ventilation operation, the absorbent material 33 does not absorb excess moisture. Furthermore, since the intake ventilation operation is performed with the heater 32 stopped, the energy efficiency of the ventilation device 30 can be improved.

In addition, in the ventilation device 30, the dehumidification and ventilation functions are independent of each other. In the intake ventilation and exhaust ventilation operations, air does not pass through the heater 32 and the absorbent material 33, so the air resistance of the ventilation device 30 can be reduced. Therefore, the efficiency of the fan 34 in the intake ventilation and exhaust ventilation operations can be improved.

The ventilation device 30 further includes a controller 37 for the user to select an operation mode. The operation mode selected by the user is executed via the controller 37.

This configuration allows the ventilation device 30 to execute an appropriate operation mode in response to a user request. For example, when a user recognizes the generation of polluted air indoors, the user can select exhaust ventilation operation, and the controller 37 can execute exhaust ventilation operation.

The ventilation device 30 further includes a third flow path P3 connected between the fan 34 and the second inlet/outlet E2 in the first flow path P1, and a second damper 36 disposed at a position where the first flow path P1 and the third flow path P3 are connected. The third flow path P3 is provided with a fourth inlet/outlet E4 connected to the outdoor side. The second damper 36 switches the direction of air flowing through the first flow path P1 and the third flow path P3.

This configuration allows the outdoor air flowing through the first flow path P1 to be discharged outside the room.

The operation mode further includes a regeneration operation in which the absorbent 33 is dried by heated outdoor air. In the regeneration operation, the fan 34 rotates in the first rotation direction X1, and the second damper 36 switches the flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet/outlet E1 to the first flow path P1 to a fourth direction toward the fourth inlet/outlet E4 through the third flow path P3.

With this configuration, the absorbent material 33 can be dried by the inflow of outdoor air, and the moisture held by the absorbent material 33 can be discharged to the outside. This allows the absorbent material 33 to be regenerated.

Dehumidification and regeneration operations are performed alternately.

This configuration allows dehumidification operation to be performed continuously and intermittently.

Fan 34 is a vortex blower fan.

This configuration allows a pressure increase in the fan 34, improving the efficiency of the fan 34.

The absorbent material 33 is a polymeric sorption material.

This configuration allows the absorbent 33 to absorb moisture at a high rate, thereby improving the efficiency of the dehumidification operation of the ventilation device 30. In addition, the moisture held by the absorbent 33 can be desorbed at a low heating temperature. This improves the efficiency of the humidification and regeneration operation of the ventilation device 30. Furthermore, the absorbent 33 can retain moisture for a long period of time. This prevents the retained water from leaking into the ventilation device 30 over time and promoting corrosion of the ventilation device 30.

It comprises an indoor unit 10, an outdoor unit 20, and a ventilation device 30, and the ventilation device 30 is disposed in the outdoor unit 20.

This configuration improves the ventilation function of the air conditioner 1. In addition, since the ventilation device 30 is placed in the outdoor unit 20, it can be easily installed in an existing outdoor unit 20.

The ventilation device 30 is for an air conditioner 1 that includes an indoor unit 10 and an outdoor unit 20. The ventilation device 30 includes a first flow path P1 and a fan 34. The first flow path P1 connects a first inlet/outlet E1 connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet/outlet E2 connected to the indoor side. The fan 34 is disposed in the first flow path P1 and is capable of changing between a first rotation direction X1 that generates an air flow from the outdoors to the indoors and a second rotation direction X2 that generates an air flow from the indoors to the outdoors.

With this configuration, the air conditioner 1 can perform an intake ventilation operation to send outdoor air into the room, as well as an exhaust ventilation operation to blow indoor air outside, improving the ventilation function.

The first flow path P1 may also be referred to as the "flow path."

In the embodiment, an air conditioner 1 including a ventilation device 30 is described, but is not limited to an air conditioner 1. The ventilation device 30 may be applied to other devices.

In the embodiment, an example in which the fan 34 is a vortex fan is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The fan 34 may be another fan that can change the direction of rotation.

In the embodiment, an example in which the controller 37 executes one operation mode selected by the user will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The ventilation device 30 may further include a sensor that measures humidity, and the controller 37 may switch the operation mode depending on the humidity measured by the sensor. For example, when the indoor humidity measured by the sensor falls below a certain threshold, the controller 37 executes a humidification operation. The sensor may also measure air-related parameters other than humidity.

In the embodiment, the first damper 35 and the second damper 36 are described as being rotatable, but the present invention is not limited to this. The first damper 35 and the second damper 36 may be dampers different from the damper that rotates. Furthermore, the first damper 35 and the second damper 36 may be opening and closing mechanisms.

In the embodiment, an example in which the regeneration operation is performed in conjunction with the dehumidification operation has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The regeneration operation may be performed depending on the state of the absorbent 33. For example, if the absorbent 33 has not yet reached a saturated state after the dehumidification operation has been performed, the regeneration operation may not be performed. In addition, if the duration of the dehumidification operation is short, or if a humidification operation is performed after the dehumidification operation has been performed, the regeneration operation may not be performed.

Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims, unless they depart therefrom.

The ventilation device disclosed herein is useful as a ventilation device for an air conditioner.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Air conditioner 10 Indoor unit 11 First heat exchanger 12 Indoor fan 13 Air outlet 20 Outdoor unit 21 Second heat exchanger 22 Outdoor fan 23 Compressor 24 Expansion valve 30 Ventilator 31 Housing 32 Heater 33 Absorbent material 34 Fan 35 First damper 36 Second damper 37 Controller P1 First flow path P2 Second flow path P3 Third flow path E1 First inlet/outlet E2 Second inlet/outlet E3 Third inlet/outlet E4 Fourth inlet/outlet

Claims (13)

A first flow path connecting a first inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet/outlet connected to the indoor side;
a fan disposed in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction for generating an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction for generating an air flow from the inside of the room to the outside of the room;
an absorbent material that is disposed on the first inlet/outlet side of the fan in the first flow path and absorbs moisture in the air;
a heater that is disposed on the first inlet/outlet side of the absorbent in the first flow path and heats air flowing toward the absorbent;
A third inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side, the first flow path between the fan and the absorbent, and a second flow path connected to the first flow path;
Equipped with
a humidification operation in which the heater heats the outdoor air passing through the first flow path , and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent material and flows into the room;
an exhaust ventilation operation in which indoor air bypasses the absorbent material and passes through the second flow path toward the outside of the room;
The ventilation device, wherein the fan rotates in the first rotation direction in the humidification operation, and the fan rotates in the second rotation direction in the exhaust ventilation operation. The operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater is stopped and the outdoor air, which has been dried by capturing moisture in the absorbent, is directed toward the room.
The ventilation device according to claim 1 , wherein the fan rotates in the first rotation direction in the dehumidifying operation. a first damper disposed at a position where the first flow path and the second flow path are connected ;
The first damper switches a direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the second flow path.
3. A ventilation device according to claim 1 or 2. The first damper is
In the humidifying operation, a flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet/outlet to the first flow path is switched to a first direction toward the second inlet/outlet through the first flow path;
The ventilation device according to claim 3, wherein in the exhaust ventilation operation, a flow direction of the indoor air flowing from the second inlet/outlet to the first flow path is switched to a second direction toward the third inlet/outlet through the second flow path. The operation mode further includes an intake ventilation operation for supplying air from the outside to the room,
In the intake ventilation operation,
The fan rotates in the first rotational direction,
The ventilation device according to claim 4 , wherein the first damper switches a flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the third inlet/outlet to the second flow path, to a third direction toward the second inlet/outlet through the first flow path. a controller for user selection of the operating mode;
6. The ventilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the operating mode selected by a user via the controller is executed. a third flow path connected between the fan and the second inlet/outlet in the first flow path;
A second damper is disposed at a position where the first flow path and the third flow path are connected,
The third flow path is provided with a fourth inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side,
The second damper switches a direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the third flow path.
3. A ventilation device according to claim 2. The operation mode further includes a regeneration operation in which the absorbent material is dried by the heated outdoor air,
In the regeneration operation,
The fan rotates in the first rotational direction,
The ventilation device according to claim 7 , wherein the second damper switches a flow direction of the outdoor air flowing from the first inlet/outlet to the first flow path to a fourth direction toward the fourth inlet/outlet through the third flow path. The ventilation device according to claim 8, wherein the dehumidification operation and the regeneration operation are performed alternately. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fan is a vortex fan. The ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the absorbent material is a polymeric sorbent material. An indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and the ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The ventilation device is disposed in the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. A first flow path connecting a first inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side and a second inlet/outlet connected to the indoor side;
a fan disposed in the first flow path and capable of changing a first rotation direction for generating an air flow from the outside to the inside of the room and a second rotation direction for generating an air flow from the inside of the room to the outside of the room;
an absorbent material that is disposed on the first inlet/outlet side of the fan in the first flow path and absorbs moisture in the air;
a heater that is disposed on the first inlet/outlet side of the absorbent in the first flow path and heats air flowing toward the absorbent;
Equipped with
A humidification operation in which the heater heats outdoor air, and the heated outdoor air removes moisture from the absorbent material and flows into the room;
and an exhaust ventilation operation in which the indoor air is directed to the outside of the room.
In the humidification operation, the fan rotates in the first rotation direction, and in the exhaust ventilation operation, the fan rotates in the second rotation direction,
The operation mode further includes a dehumidification operation in which the heater is stopped and the outdoor air, which has been dried by capturing moisture in the absorbent, is directed toward the room.
In the dehumidifying operation, the fan rotates in the first rotation direction,
a third flow path connected between the fan and the second inlet/outlet in the first flow path;
a second damper disposed at a position where the first flow path and the third flow path are connected,
The third flow path is provided with a fourth inlet/outlet connected to the outdoor side,
The second damper switches the direction of air flowing through the first flow path and the third flow path.

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