TWI897054B - Dehumidifier - Google Patents

Abstract

A dehumidifier (1) capable of efficiently selecting between air purification operation and dehumidification operation is provided. The dehumidifier (1) comprises: a first air path formed inside a housing (3), through which air flows through an air purifying device and reaches the dehumidifying device; a second air path formed inside the housing (3), through which air flows to the dehumidifying device without passing through the air purifying device; an air flow limiting device (51) for limiting the flow of air in the second air path; a compressor (6) for supplying refrigerant to the dehumidifying device; and a control device (18) for controlling the air supply device, the air flow limiting device (51) and the compressor (6). The control device (18) controls the airflow restriction device (51) in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information.

Description

Dehumidifier

This disclosure relates to a dehumidifier.

Patent Document 1 describes a dehumidifier. This dehumidifier has an air purification function, and the user can choose to operate it with either an emphasis on air purification or a focus on dehumidification.

The dehumidifier shown in Patent Document 1 dehumidifies air drawn in through an air intake by passing it through a heat exchanger. A filter is positioned between the air intake and the heat exchanger's ventilation path, in a manner that does not cover a portion of the airflow upstream of the heat exchanger, as viewed from the front side of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, a shutter capable of blocking the airflow is provided in the portion of the filter that does not cover the front side of the heat exchanger. The shutter can be selectively positioned to either cover or uncover the portion of the passage leading to the heat exchanger.

[Prior Patent Literature] [Patent Literature]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-211913

In addition to manually opening and closing the shutter, Patent Document 1 also discloses a configuration in which a humidity sensor is provided to open and close the shutter according to humidity. However, simply opening and closing the shutter does not allow for selective and efficient dehumidification and air purification operations.

This disclosure was developed to address the aforementioned issues. The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a dehumidifier that can selectively and efficiently perform dehumidification and air purification operations.

The dehumidifier disclosed herein comprises: a housing forming an inlet and an outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the inlet to the outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by having a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier. A second air passage is formed within the housing, and the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier. An airflow restricting device restricts the flow of the airflow in the second air passage. A compressor supplies refrigerant to the dehumidifier. A control device controls the air supply device, the airflow restricting device, and the compressor. The control device controls the airflow restricting device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information.

According to the present disclosure, a second air duct that does not pass through the air purifier is provided, allowing dehumidification operation to be performed by directing dehumidified air into the second duct. This reduces pressure loss and operating noise compared to dehumidification using only the first duct. Furthermore, because the control device controls the airflow in the second duct based on at least one of environmental information and ambient information, dehumidification and air purification operations can be performed efficiently.

1: Dehumidifier

2: Dehumidifier

3: Cabinet

5: Window

6: Electric compressor

7:Storage tank

8: Operation Display Panel

10: Box

10F: Front Box

10B: Rear box

11:Suction port

11A: Suction inlet cover

11A1: Vertical Plate

11A2: Crossboard

12: Blowing Outlet

13: Venetian blinds

15: Operation Notification Department

16: Substrate Box

17: Input Operation Section

17S: Operation mode switch

18: Main control device

19: Power Supply Department

20: Casters

21: Fan

21A: Motor

22:Refrigerant piping

23: Notification Department

23D: Display unit

23V: Voice Notification Unit

24:CPU

24T: Timer unit

25: Memory device

26: Wireless Communications Department

27: Drive circuit

28: Drive circuit

29: Drive circuit

31: Evaporator

32: Condenser

33: First Space

34: Second Space

35: Room temperature sensor

36: Fan box

37: Bell-shaped mouth

38: Rectification components

41: HEPA filter

42: Activated carbon filter

43: Bypass air duct

44: Main wind route

46: Wind Tunnel

46A: Wind guide surface

50: Suction port frame

50B: Section

50R1: Peripheral wall (partition wall)

50R2: Peripheral wall (partition wall)

50L1: Peripheral wall (partition wall)

50L2: Peripheral wall (partition wall)

51: Airflow restriction device

51B: Motor

51C: Sensor

51D: Sensor

51S: switch

53: Open/Close Detection Unit

61: Humidity sensor

62: Dust sensor

63: Gas Sensor

64: Human Detection Unit (Surrounding Information Acquisition Unit)

64S: Infrared sensor

65: Illumination determination unit (surrounding information acquisition unit)

65S: Illumination sensor

Figure 1 is a front view of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1.

Figure 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1.

Figure 3 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1.

Figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 3.

Figure 5 is the same transverse cross-sectional view as Figure 3, with additional dimensions.

Figure 6 is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken at the same location as Figure 5, in which the main components are virtually separated to make the dimensions of each part clear.

Figure 7 is a simplified three-dimensional diagram of the evaporator.

Figure 8 is a three-dimensional diagram illustrating the sizes of the HEPA filter and activated carbon filter that make up the air purifier.

Figure 9 is a dimensional diagram illustrating the suction port portion of the dehumidifier according to Embodiment 1, viewed from the front.

Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the airflow restriction device in embodiment 1.

Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the main control-related components of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1.

Figure 12 is a flow chart showing the operating steps of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1 during dehumidification operation.

Figure 13 is a flow chart showing the operating steps of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1 during air purification operation.

Figure 14 is a flow chart showing the operating steps of the dehumidifier of embodiment 1 during dehumidification and air purification operation.

Figure 15 is a flow chart showing the basic operating steps of the main control device when the dehumidifier of embodiment 1 starts operating.

Figure 16 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air in the dehumidifier of embodiment 1.

Figure 17 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air during dehumidification operation of the dehumidifier of Embodiment 1.

Figure 18 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air during air purification operation of the dehumidifier of Embodiment 1.

Figure 19 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air during dehumidification operation of the dehumidifier of Embodiment 2.

Figure 20 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air during air purification operation of the dehumidifier of Embodiment 2.

Figure 21 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the dehumidifier according to Embodiment 3.

Figure 22 is an exploded transverse cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier housing shown in Figure 21, before the dehumidifier is cut along line C-C.

Figure 23 is a front view of the suction inlet frame used in the dehumidifier of Figure 21.

Figure 24 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier shown in Figure 21, taken at the left and right center portions.

Figure 25 is a block diagram showing the main control-related components of the dehumidifier shown in Figure 21.

Figure 26 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the left and right center portion of the dehumidifier according to Embodiment 4.

The following describes the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same symbols in the various figures represent the same or corresponding parts. In this disclosure, repeated descriptions are appropriately simplified or omitted. Furthermore, this disclosure encompasses all possible combinations of the configurations described in the following embodiments.

Implementation form 1

Figures 1 to 20 illustrate a dehumidifier according to Embodiment 1. The sizes and positions of the dehumidifier components are shown in the illustrations and may differ from actual designs. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, some parts may be omitted from the drawings as appropriate.

Figure 1 is a front view of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 3 is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Figure 1. Figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 3.

In this disclosure, the dehumidifier 1 is described, in principle, with the dehumidifier 1 placed on a horizontal surface, such as a floor. Furthermore, the following description assumes that the surface with the suction port 11 is the front. However, in actual use, the dehumidifier 1 is designed with the suction port 11 on the back.

First, let's explain Figure 1.

Dehumidifier 1 includes a housing 10. Housing 10 forms part of a casing 3, which forms the outer shell of dehumidifier 1. The casing 3 has a bottom plate 4, on which a plurality of casters 20, described below, are mounted. The housing 3 is formed of a hollow box by the housing 10 and the bottom plate 4.

Base plate 4 is equipped with casters 20, each of which can be separated from the front, back, left, and right sides. These casters are used to move dehumidifier 1. Base plate 4 is used to support heavy objects such as the electric compressor 6 (described later). Therefore, base plate 4 is made of a metal plate with greater strength (rigidity) than box 10.

Box 10 is assembled into a box shape by fastening the ends of a plurality of thin metal plates together with fasteners such as screws (not shown). Alternatively, box 10 is assembled into a box shape by fastening a plurality of components together with fasteners such as screws (not shown). These plurality of components are integrally molded using a thermoplastic resin (plastic) material.

In embodiment 1, the box 10 includes a rear box 10B and a front box 10F. The rear box 10B forms the back portion of the box 10. The front box 10F forms the front portion of the box 10. The front box 10F is fixed to the rear box 10B using fasteners such as screws (not shown).

The upper box 10U, which is attached to the flat plate, is connected to the upper ends of the rear box 10B and the front box 10F. The upper box 10U is composed of two parts: a front portion 10UF and a rear portion 10UB. The front portion 10UF and the rear portion 10UB abut against each other from front to back, forming a flat surface. This surface serves as the top surface of the box 10 itself.

The box 10 has an inlet 11 and an outlet 12. The inlet 11 is an opening for taking air in from outside the box 10. The outlet 12 is an opening for sending air out from inside the box 10.

In embodiment 1, the air inlet 11 is formed in a square window shape in the center of the front case 10F. The air outlet 12 is formed in the top portion of the case 10. The air outlet 12 is opened by opening upward to a fixed angle using the front end as a fulcrum, as shown in Figure 16.

As shown in Figure 1 , the intake port 11 is square when viewing the housing 3 from the front. This intake port 11 can also be rectangular or circular. The intake port 11 can directly utilize the square window formed in the front box 10F of the housing 3, or a frame can be fitted into the inner side of this window, utilizing the inner side of this frame as the intake port 11.

Dehumidifier 1 includes an inlet cover 11A that covers inlet 11. Inlet cover 11A is, for example, lattice-shaped. Alternatively, inlet cover 11A may be entirely formed as thin louvers (shutter-shaped). This inlet cover 11A prevents foreign matter from entering the interior of housing 10 through inlet 11. Inlet cover 11A is removably secured to rear housing 10B using fasteners such as screws.

The suction port cover 11A is equipped with a "net" to prevent foreign matter from penetrating its entire surface. Alternatively, the suction port cover 11A can be formed integrally from a plastic material. The suction port cover 11A prevents large foreign matter (such as paper scraps or clothing fibers) that is lifted up in the air from entering the interior of the housing 3. However, this suction port cover 11A has a low pressure loss and lacks the ability to purify fine particles, and is not a type of air purifier described later. The "air purifier" of this embodiment is the activated carbon filter 42 and the HEPA filter 41.

In Figure 1 , reference numeral 11A1 denotes a vertical plate that forms the air inlet cover 11A. Reference numeral 11A2 denotes a horizontal plate that forms the air inlet cover 11A. These vertical plates 11A1 and horizontal plates 11A2 define a plurality of ventilation windows 5 in the air inlet cover 11A.

In Figure 1, reference numeral 6 denotes an electric compressor. Electric compressor 6 can be of either reciprocating or rotary type. This electric compressor 6 includes a motor (not shown) and forcibly circulates refrigerant through refrigerant piping 22 (also referred to as a "refrigerant circuit") connected to the evaporator 31 and condenser 32, described later. Specifically, electric compressor 6 compresses and supplies refrigerant within the refrigeration cycle formed by the refrigerant piping 22 connecting the evaporator 31 and condenser 32.

The motor (not shown) of the electric compressor 6 is powered by power from the drive circuit 27 (described later) to vary its number of revolutions per unit time. This change in speed alters the refrigerant supply performance, thereby increasing or decreasing (adjusting) cooling performance. The main control unit 18 controls the speed of the motor (not shown) of the electric compressor 6 by specifying a drive frequency for the drive circuit 27.

In Figure 1, reference numeral 7 denotes a water storage tank. Drainage generated on the exterior surface of the evaporator 31 during dehumidification drips directly into the water storage tank 7 and is directed there. Alternatively, drainage can be directed into the water storage tank 7 via a guide plate, such as a water pipe. Furthermore, the water storage tank 7 can be removed from the housing 3 through an outlet (not shown), formed on the side of the rear housing 10B or housing 10. This outlet is covered by a freely openable door (not shown) except when the water storage tank 7 is being removed.

Next, let’s explain Figure 2.

The dehumidifier 1 is equipped with a louver 13.

In this first embodiment, as described above, the louver 13 is formed of a single piece of the rear portion 10UB of the upper case 10U. Alternatively, the louver 13 may be formed of multiple plate-like members. The louver 13 is used to adjust the direction of air discharged from the air outlet 12. The louver 13 is positioned near the air outlet 12 so that it can be opened and closed freely.

The blinds 13 are adjusted in position by a connected blind-driving motor (not shown). This motor (not shown) adjusts the blinds' 13 tilt angle relative to the air outlet 12 in several steps. This adjusts the direction of the air (airflow AF) blowing out of the air outlet 12. Furthermore, the blind-driving motor (not shown) is controlled by a drive signal from a control board (not shown). This control board (not shown) is housed in a board case 16, which is made of a metal plate or a non-flammable, heat-resistant plastic box.

The dehumidifier 1 is equipped with an operation notification unit 15. The operation notification unit 15 is composed of an input operation unit 17 (see Figure 11) and a notification unit 23 (see Figure 11). The input operation unit 17 is used by the user to operate the dehumidifier 1. The notification unit 23 displays the status of the dehumidifier 1 to the user through visible information such as text. In addition, the notification unit 23 can also notify by sound. Inside the box 10 facing the operation notification unit 15, an operation display panel 8 is arranged, which controls the operation notification unit 15. The operation display panel 8 is arranged with an operation switch, which starts/stops the operation of the dehumidifier 1. Alternatively, the operation display panel 8 may be composed of two or more substrates: an operation substrate 8A and a display substrate 8B. The operation substrate 8A is used to assemble circuit components for the input operation unit 17 (described later), while the display substrate 8B is used to assemble circuit components related to the display unit 23D (described later).

The operation display panel 8 has an operation mode switching switch 17S (see FIG11 ), which switches the operation mode to one of three modes: "dehumidification operation mode," "air purification operation mode," and "dehumidification air purification operation mode."

The operation display panel 8 includes a notification unit 23 (see Figure 11) and an input operation unit 17. The notification unit 23 includes a liquid crystal display unit 23D located below the front portion 10UF (upper wall) of the upper cabinet 10U, within the operation notification unit 15. Information displayed on the display unit 23D is displayed above the upper cabinet 10U via the front portion 10UF. The operating conditions and status of the dehumidifier 1 are displayed to the outside of the cabinet 3 via the display unit 23D of the operation notification unit 15. The operation display panel 8 is positioned horizontally near the inner top of the front cabinet 10F.

Below the operation display panel 8, a power supply board (not shown) and a board box 16 are located. This board box 16 houses one or more control boards. The control board houses the drive circuit 28 for the fan 21 (described later) and the drive circuit (inverter circuit) 27 for the electric compressor 6.

As a device for discharging air, a fan 21 (rotating blades) is provided at the rear inside the cabinet 10. The fan 21 draws air into the cabinet 10 and discharges it to the outside. The fan 21 rotates, generating an airflow AF from the intake port 11 to the outlet 12 in the air path between the intake port 11 and the outlet 12.

Inside the housing 10, a motor 21A is housed. Motor 21A rotates the fan 21. In Embodiment 1, the fan 21 and motor 21A are located at the rear of the housing 3, that is, on the back side of the dehumidifier 1. Motor 21A is connected to the rotation center of the fan 21 via a horizontally extending shaft 21B. The rotation of motor 21A is controlled by a drive circuit 28 (see Figure 11), described later. Specifically, the start and stop of rotation of motor 21A, as well as the speed of rotation, are controlled by the drive circuit 28.

Fan 21 is a sirocco fan (multi-blade fan), with its rotating center fixed by shaft 21B. Fan 21 draws air from the front into the fan case 36 (described later) and blows this air out through outlet 12.

The fan box 36 surrounds the fan 21 and motor 21A. A bell-shaped opening 37 is formed on the front wall of the fan box 36, corresponding to the position of the fan 21. This bell-shaped opening 37 is a large circular opening with a rim that curves sharply toward the leeward side. The bell-shaped opening 37 smoothly draws in airflow passing through the condenser 32.

Dehumidifier 1 is a type of dehumidification device that removes moisture from the air. It includes an evaporator 31, a condenser 32, an electric compressor 6, and a pressure-reducing device (not shown). The evaporator 31 and condenser 32, along with the electric compressor 6 and the pressure-reducing device (not shown), form a refrigerant circuit.

The evaporator 31, condenser 32, electric compressor 6, and pressure-reducing device (not shown) are housed within the housing 10. As shown in Figure 2, the evaporator 31 and condenser 32 are vertically mounted, blocking the front side of the bell-shaped mouth 37. The electric compressor 6 is located at the bottom of the housing 10, as indicated by the dotted line in Figure 1.

In Figure 2, reference numeral 38 denotes a flat plate-shaped flow regulating member, formed integrally from, for example, a thermoplastic plastic material. As shown in Figure 4, flow regulating member 38 is formed with a frame 38B intersecting longitudinally and transversely. Multiple ventilation windows 38A are formed between these frames 38B. In other words, each ventilation window 38A is an independent opening. The ventilation windows 38A are regularly arranged horizontally and vertically throughout the flow regulating member 38.

The front, back, left, and right surfaces of frame 38B serve as flat guide surfaces of a fixed length D5 (see Figure 4) to direct the airflow AF in a straight line. Length D5 is set within a range of 10 mm to 15 mm (e.g., 12 mm). Furthermore, the diameter (opening area) of the ventilation window 38A is uniform across the entire flow-regulating member 38.

This flow straightening member 38 faces the front of the evaporator 31 across the first space 33. This evaporator 31 is part of the heat exchanger described later. Specifically, the flow straightening member 38 faces the evaporator 31 across a predetermined distance D3 (see Figures 5 and 6).

Furthermore, the flow straightening member 38 faces the back surface of the activated carbon filter 42, which is part of the air purifier (air purifier) described later, across the second space 34. Specifically, the flow straightening member 38 faces the back surface of the activated carbon filter 42, separated by a predetermined distance D4.

The evaporator 31, electric compressor 6, condenser 32, and pressure-reducing device (not shown) are sequentially connected via refrigerant piping (not shown). Refrigerant from the electric compressor 6 flows through the refrigerant circuit formed by the evaporator 31, electric compressor, condenser 32, and pressure-reducing device (not shown).

The evaporator 31 and condenser 32 are heat exchangers used to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the air. The electric compressor 6 shown in Figure 1 compresses the refrigerant. The pressure reducing device (not shown) reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The pressure reducing device (not shown) is, for example, an expansion valve or a capillary tube.

Dehumidifier 1 is an example of an air purifier that removes dust and odors from the air. It includes a HEPA filter 41 and an activated carbon filter 42, which are air purifier filters used to purify the air. HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are housed within housing 10. In embodiment 1, HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are located within front housing 10F, between the air inlet 11 and the flow regulating member 38.

The HEPA filter 41 collects fine dust from the air. The activated carbon filter 42 removes odors from the air. As described above, the activated carbon filter 42 is located in a space (hereinafter referred to as the "second space 34") separated from the front of the flow regulating member 38 by a predetermined distance D4.

With the inlet cover 11A removed, the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 can be inserted through the inlet 11 to a position in front of the flow regulating member 38. The HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are detachably mounted within the housing 10.

The rectifying member 38 also serves as a protective member. When the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are removed, it prevents the user from coming into contact with the evaporator 31. Therefore, even if the user pushes from the front, their fingers will not come into contact with the evaporator 31.

In embodiment 1, an air path is formed inside the housing 10, connecting the air intake 11 to the air outlet 12. Airflow AF flowing within this air path flows from the air intake 11 through the air intake cover 11A, HEPA filter 41, activated carbon filter 42, evaporator 31, condenser 32, and fan 21, in this order. This forms a series of air paths, where air entering from the air intake 11 passes through the air purification filters (HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42), then flows from the heat exchanger (evaporator 31, etc.) to the side of the fan 21.

Here, the upstream and downstream sides are determined using the airflow AF flowing through the air passage from the intake port 11 to the outlet port 12. For example, the side of the heat exchanger (evaporator 31, etc.) where the intake port 11 is located is considered the upstream side. Conversely, the side of the heat exchanger (evaporator 31, etc.) where the outlet port 12 is located is considered the downstream side.

In Figure 2, symbol 62 denotes a dust sensor. This dust sensor 62 is located at the top of the interior of the box 10. A small opening 62A (not shown) is provided near the dust sensor 62 within the box 10, allowing the dust sensor 62 to communicate with the exterior of the box 10. Dust sensor 62 communicates with the main control unit 18 (described later) to obtain dust detection information and measure the amount and concentration of dust in the room where the dehumidifier 1 is installed. Dust sensor 62 is capable of detecting particles as small as 0.1 μm, for example. The detection results of the dust sensor 62 are obtained by the main control device 18, and the obtained dust detection information can be displayed on the display unit 23D configured on the operation display panel 8.

In Figure 2, reference numeral 63 denotes a gas sensor. This gas sensor 63 is located within the chamber 10, below the air inlet 11. A small opening 63A (not shown) is provided in the chamber 10 wall near the gas sensor 63, connecting the exterior of the chamber 10 to the gas sensor 63. Gas sensor 63 communicates with the main control unit 18 to obtain gas detection information and measure the odor of the indoor air. The measurement results of the gas sensor 63 are obtained by the main control unit 18, and this information is displayed on the display unit 23D, which is located on the operation display panel 8.

In Figure 2, reference numeral 26 denotes a wireless communication unit (wireless communication module), which is housed near the top of the housing 10. Wireless communication unit 26 enables wireless communication with a local area network (LAN) device, such as a wireless router (not shown) installed in the home or office where dehumidifier 1 is installed. Alternatively, wireless communication unit 26 may be connected to an internet connection (not shown) via the LAN device.

Therefore, the wireless communication unit 26 can exchange information with remotely located data processing terminals (not shown) such as smartphones and other communication devices via Internet lines. Local area network devices can also be command devices that control total power usage within a home or office, or integrated management devices that collect information from multiple appliances and connect them. Some are also called "access points."

As shown in Figure 2, the shaft 21B of motor 21A extends horizontally. HL is the horizontal centerline that passes through the center of shaft 21B. This centerline HL is located at the vertical center of the intake port 11. In other words, shaft 21B is located at half the height of intake port 11, which has a height dimension H1.

Next, let’s explain Figure 3.

In Figure 3, the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are adjacent to the bypass air duct 43. The bypass air duct 43 is a space inside the front box 10F, extending across the entire height of the air inlet 11.

As shown in Figure 3, the bypass air passage 43 extends rearward from the air inlet 11. Specifically, it is a narrow passage extending from the front to the rear. In Figure 3, reference numeral 46 denotes an air tunnel extending rearward from the rim of the air inlet 11. The air tunnel 46 is integrally formed from a thin sheet metal member or a thermoplastic plastic member.

The gaps between the front end of the wind tunnel 46 and the left and right sides of the HEPA filter 41 serve as the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43. Conversely, the rear end of the wind tunnel 46 contacts the outer peripheral end of the flow straightening member 38 to prevent outward leakage of the airflow AF. The gaps between the rear end of the wind tunnel 46 and the left and right sides of the activated carbon filter 42 serve as the outlet 43B of the bypass air passage 43.

As can be seen from the above description, the air passage from the intake port 11 to the outlet port 12 is composed of two air passages: a main air passage 44 and a bypass air passage 43. The main air passage (also referred to as the "first air passage") 44 runs from the intake port 11 through the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42 to the rectifying member 38. The bypass air passage (also referred to as the "second air passage") 43 runs from the intake port 11 to the rectifying member 38 without passing through the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42.

The main air passage 44 and the bypass air passage 43 converge directly in front of the rectifying member 38. In Figure 3, W5 represents the front width of the air inlet 11. In other words, it represents the lateral width. In this embodiment 1, W5 is 315 mm. HL in Figure 3 is the centerline passing through the center of the rotating shaft 21B of the motor 21A, as shown in Figure 2.

In Figure 3, reference numeral 51 represents an airflow restriction device that opens and closes the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43, restricting the flow of the bypass airflow AF2. These airflow restriction devices 51 are located to the left and right of the air inlet 11 and are described in detail in Figure 4.

Next, let's explain Figure 4. Figure 4 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view of section E in Figure 3.

As shown in Figure 4, bypass airflow 43 is the airflow path through which airflow AF flows downstream without passing through HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42. In contrast to bypass airflow 43, the airflow path through which airflow AF passes through HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 is main airflow 44.

The bypass duct 43 is formed on the right and left sides of the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42, respectively. Specifically, the bypass duct 43 and the main duct 44 are adjacent and arranged parallel to each other in the front-to-back direction.

Furthermore, while the bypass duct 43 has a wall fixed by a wind tunnel 46 on its exterior, there is no wall inside the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42. In other words, there is no fixed object at the boundary between the bypass duct 43 and the main duct 44. However, the airflow through the bypass duct 43 (hereinafter referred to as the "bypass airflow," symbolized as AF2) and the airflow through the main duct 44 (hereinafter referred to as the "main airflow," symbolized as AF1) do not converge within the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42.

As shown in Figure 4 , by arranging a bypass duct 43, which is the airflow path that does not pass through the air purifier filter, adjacent to a main duct 44, which is the airflow path that passes through the air purifier filter, the airflow path in the dehumidifier 1 can be compactly configured, allowing the dehumidifier 1 to be downsized. Furthermore, when viewing the dehumidifier 1 from the front (front view), the longitudinal (vertical) height of the bypass duct 43 is preferably set to be approximately the same as the longitudinal (vertical) length of the HEPA filter 41. These dimensional relationships are explained in detail in Figures 5 and 6 .

The bypass airflow AF2 flowing in the bypass air passage 43 and the main airflow AF1 flowing in the main air passage 44 converge in the space downstream of the activated carbon filter 42, namely the first space 33 and the second space 34. The first space 33 originates from the rectifying member 38 and is only a distance D3 away. The second space 34 originates from the rectifying member 38 and is separated by a distance D4.

Specifically, the bypass airflow AF2 merges with the main airflow AF1 just before the evaporator 31 and then flows through an air duct within the housing 10. The evaporator 31 is located downstream of the activated carbon filter 42. Furthermore, the portion of the main airflow AF1 flowing through the main air duct 44 that passes near the left and right ends of the activated carbon filter 42 merges with the bypass airflow AF2 immediately after passing through the left and right ends of the rectifying member 38.

In the configuration described above, a first space 33 and a second space 34 are provided. However, as long as the airflows flowing in the bypass air duct 43 and the main air duct 44 can converge directly before the evaporator 31, at least the first space 33 is sufficient. If the first space 33 is not sufficiently large, the second space 34 can be provided. For example, if the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42, which are subject to air resistance during the passage of the main airflow AF1, are envisioned to move or bend downstream and come into contact with the flow straightening member 38, the second space 34 can be provided.

Downstream of the bypass airflow AF2 in the wind tunnel 46, wind guide surfaces 46A are formed. In the wind tunnel 46, a pair of left and right wind guide surfaces 46A are provided at locations connected to the flow straightening member 38. As shown in Figure 4 , these wind guide surfaces 46A are symmetrically inclined (at the same angle) toward the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 when viewed from a flat surface.

Air guide surface 46A is used to guide bypass airflow AF2, which passes through bypass air passage 43, toward the center of the front of the upwind side of the heat exchanger (e.g., evaporator 31). In other words, it has the function of slightly changing the direction of bypass airflow AF2 toward the centerline HL, which passes through the center of motor 21A's rotating shaft 21B.

The air guide surface 46A shown in Figure 4 is constructed entirely of a flat, inclined surface. By adjusting the normal direction (inclination angle) of this inclined surface, the direction of the bypass airflow AF2 can be adjusted. Furthermore, because the air guide surface 46A is constructed from a single surface without any uneven sections, the bypass airflow AF2 experiences minimal resistance and avoids unnecessary turbulence.

Alternatively, the air guide surface 46A can be formed of a curved surface. By adjusting the curvature of the curved surface, the expansion of the bypass airflow AF2 guided by the air guide surface 46A can be adjusted. In this manner, because the air guide surface 46A is provided in a portion of the second air duct (bypass air duct 43) on the upwind side of the heat exchanger (e.g., the evaporator 31), guiding the bypass airflow AF2 in a predetermined direction (in Figure 3, the direction of the centerline HL), the bypass airflow AF2 passing through the bypass air duct 43 can efficiently flow into the heat exchanger, thereby improving dehumidification efficiency.

Continue with the explanation of Figure 4.

An airflow restriction device 51 is installed in the bypass air passage 43. The airflow restriction device 51 is shown in detail in Figure 10 and comprises a plate-shaped baffle or partition that opens and closes the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43. These baffles or partitions are collectively referred to as switches 51S.

The shutter 51S is located further downstream of the air inlet cover 11A. One end of the shutter 51S is pivotally supported by a shaft 51E (see Figure 10). The shutter 51S is fixed between an open and closed position by a motor 51B (see Figure 10) that drives the shutter 51S. Furthermore, the shutter 51S is driven to remain stationary even at a specific position between the open and closed positions. The airflow restricting device 51 has a determining function and an adjusting function. The determining function determines whether the bypass airflow AF2 flows through the bypass airflow duct 43, and the adjusting function adjusts the amount of the bypass airflow AF2 flowing through the bypass airflow duct 43.

Next, let's explain Figure 5. Figure 5 is the same horizontal cross-sectional view as Figure 3, with additional dimensions.

D1 represents the thickness (depth) of the condenser 32 in the front-to-back direction, which is 51 mm. D2 represents the thickness (depth) of the evaporator 31 in the front-to-back direction, which is 38 mm. In this evaporator 31, two rows (two layers) of refrigerant pipes 22 are arranged in the front and back directions. This arrangement of two layers of refrigerant pipes 22 improves cooling performance compared to a single layer. In the figures, for simplicity, the evaporator 31 and condenser 32 are not drawn in proportion to their actual thickness and are drawn at equal sizes.

D4 is the distance between the activated carbon filter 42 and the flow straightening member 38, which is 15 mm. Furthermore, this distance D4 applies to the entire flow straightening member 38 and does not necessarily have to be exactly the same. If the activated carbon filter 42 partially bends downstream due to the passage of the airflow AF, the distance D4 may be slightly smaller in this area.

D3 is the facing distance between the flow regulating member 38 and the evaporator 31, which is 10 mm. Furthermore, in the evaporator 31, as shown in Figure 7, numerous thin metal plates 31F for heat exchange, known as plate heat sinks, are arranged at minute intervals (pitch) of less than 1 mm, and the refrigerant pipe 22 is positioned to penetrate these plates. The facing distance D3 is the distance between these thin plates 31F and the flow regulating member 38.

W1 is the transverse width (front width) of the main air passage 44, excluding the portion closed by the airflow restriction device 51, from the intake port 11. It is set to 255mm. W5 is the transverse width (front width) of the intake port 11. It is set to 315mm.

Next, let's explain Figure 6. Figure 6 is a transverse cross-sectional view taken at the same location as Figure 5. The main components are virtually separated to clarify the dimensions of each part. W2 is the transverse width of the evaporator 31, which is set to 270 mm. W3 is the transverse width of the condenser 32, which is also set to 270 mm.

W4 is the diameter of the opening of the bell-shaped mouth 37, set to 230 mm. BL is a horizontal reference line extending in the front-to-back direction from the center point (upper, lower, and left-to-right) of the opening of the bell-shaped mouth 37.

W6 is the horizontal width of the window 47A of the rear wind tunnel 47 (see Figure 4), which is set to 270 mm. This rear wind tunnel 47 surrounds the straightening member 38 on both sides. The straightening member 38 is embedded in this window 47A. H2 is the height of the window 47A of the rear wind tunnel 47. This height H2 is the same as the height H3 of the evaporator 31, which is 252 mm.

The condenser 32 and evaporator 31 each have a transverse width of 270 mm. They are positioned close to each other in the front-to-rear direction and, when viewed from the front, appear to overlap at the same position. Furthermore, the transverse width W6A of the flow straightening member 38 is also close to dimension W6 (270 mm) due to its fit with window 47A. The three components—flow straightening member 38, evaporator 31, and condenser 32—are aligned in a straight line in the front-to-rear direction, aligned with window 47A of the rear wind tunnel 47.

Furthermore, the three components—the flow straightening member 38, the evaporator 31, and the condenser 32—are aligned with the reference line BL and arranged in a straight line in the front-to-back direction. When viewed from the intake port 11, the four components—the flow straightening member 38, the evaporator 31, the condenser 32, and the bell-shaped mouth 37—are arranged so as to overlap on a straight line (reference line BL).

Furthermore, above the baseline BL, the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42 are positioned so as to overlap on a straight line. Therefore, the airflow AF drawn in through the intake port 11 flows in a straight line from front to rear within the range centered on the baseline BL, passing through either the bypass airflow 43 or the main airflow 44. This reduces airflow resistance and improves operating efficiency.

As explained above, the horizontal reference line BL is a straight line passing through the center point of the opening of the bell-shaped mouth 37. It also passes through the center points of the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42. Therefore, the reference line BL is also referred to as the center line of the air purifier (HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42).

The reference line BL is located at a position that coincides with the center line HL passing through the center of the rotating shaft 21B. The rectifying member 38, evaporator 31, condenser 32, HEPA filter 41, and activated carbon filter 42 are located above the reference line BL, each with its center portion. In other words, the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are positioned symmetrically about the reference line BL.

Next, let's explain Figure 7. Figure 7 is a simplified perspective view of the evaporator 31. Figure 7 shows the relationship between the lateral width dimension W6 of the flow straightening member 38 and the evaporator 31.

In Figure 7, W2 represents the transverse width of the evaporator 31, which, as mentioned above, is set to 270 mm. The refrigerant pipe 22 penetrates the evaporator 31 in two stages (two layers), front and back. The refrigerant pipe 22 snakes through the evaporator 31 from a first predetermined position to a second predetermined position. As shown in Figure 7, a portion of the refrigerant pipe 22 protrudes into a curved shape along the way.

As shown in Figure 7, the protrusion L2 of the refrigerant pipe 22 is 14 mm on the right side of the evaporator 31 and 26 mm on the left side. The height dimension H3 of the evaporator 31 is 252 mm.

Meanwhile, the lateral width W6 of the window 47A of the rear wind tunnel 47 surrounding the left and right sides of the airflow regulating member 38 is set to 270 mm, as described above. OB represents the left-right and top-bottom center point (second center point) of the evaporator 31 when viewed from the front. CL1 represents the horizontal centerline passing through the second center point OB of the evaporator 31. CV2 represents the vertical centerline passing through the second center point OB of the evaporator 31. Furthermore, D2 represents the depth of the evaporator 31, which, as described above, is 38 mm.

Next, let's explain Figure 8. Figure 8 is a three-dimensional diagram illustrating the sizes of the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42 that make up the air purifier.

Explanation of Figure 8(A).

The activated carbon filter 42 consists of a filter body 42A and a frame 42B. The filter body 42A collects dust and absorbs odors, while the frame 42B protects the entire perimeter of the filter body 42A. While the filter body 42A is inherently flexible, its integration with the frame 42B provides rigidity and ease of handling during replacement.

W8 is the horizontal width of the frame 42B, which is set to 255 mm. That is, as shown in Figures 5 and 6 , the horizontal width W8 of the frame 42B is set to be the same as the actual horizontal width W1 (255 mm) of the main air duct 44.

H4 is the height of the frame 42B and is set to 252 mm. This is the same as the (inner) height H2 of the window 47A of the rear wind tunnel 47 shown in Figure 7 . Furthermore, this height H4 is the same as the height H3 of the evaporator 31.

D6 is the depth of the frame 42B. In other words, it represents its thickness when viewed from the left and right sides, and is set to a value between 5 mm and 15 mm (e.g., 10 mm). The filter body 42A has the same depth as the frame 42B. The depth of the activated carbon filter 42 is determined by the depth D6 of the frame 42B. The thickness of the frame 42B when viewed from the front is approximately a few millimeters.

Next, let’s explain Figure 8(B).

The HEPA filter 41 consists of a filter body 41A and a frame 41B. The filter body 41A performs the dust collection function, while the frame 41B protects the entire perimeter of the filter body 41A. While the filter body 41A is inherently flexible, its integration with the frame 41B provides it with rigidity, making it easier for users to handle during replacement.

W9 is the horizontal width of the frame 41B and is set to 255mm. Specifically, as shown in Figures 5 and 6 , the horizontal width W9 of the frame 41B is set to be the same as the actual horizontal width W1 (255mm) of the main air duct 44.

H5 is the height of the frame 41B and is set to 252 mm. This is the same as the (inner) height H2 of the window 47A of the rear wind tunnel 47 shown in Figure 7 . Furthermore, this height H5 is the same as the height H3 of the evaporator 31.

D7 is the depth of the frame 41B. In other words, it represents the thickness when viewed from the left and right sides, and is set to a value between 20 mm and 40 mm (for example, 30 mm). The filter body 41A has the same depth as the frame 41B. The depth of the HEPA filter 41 is determined by the depth D7 of the frame 41B. Furthermore, the thickness of the frame 41B when viewed from the front is only a few millimeters.

Next, let's explain Figure 9. Figure 9 is a dimensional illustration of the suction port 11 portion of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1, viewed from the front. Figure 9 is a front view taken from the same position as Figure 1, but to clarify dimensional relationships, the size of the suction port 11 and other components is indicated by a dotted frame.

In Figure 9, CL1 is the horizontal centerline passing through the center point (first center point) OA of the intake port 11 when viewing the tank 10 from the front. CV2 is the vertical centerline passing through the center point (first center point) OA of the intake port 11.

As shown in Figure 2, H1 is the maximum height dimension of the intake port 11, which is 270 mm. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, W1 is the actual horizontal width of the main air duct 44, which is set to 255 mm. W5 is the horizontal width (front width) of the intake port 11, which is set to 315 mm. W7 is the horizontal width of the inlet portion of the bypass air duct 43 provided on the left and right sides of the intake port 11, each set to 30 mm.

The position of the first center point OA in Figure 9 and the second center point OB in Figure 7 are completely overlapping when viewed from the front. In other words, the second center point OB is located on a horizontal line passing through the first center point OA from the front.

Next, let's explain Figure 10. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the airflow restriction device 51 in embodiment 1.

The flap-shaped or flat-plate-shaped switch 51S is supported at one end by a shaft 51E of a motor 51B (e.g., a stepping motor). In Figure 10, the switch 51S is in the "open position" OP, laterally retracted from the bypass air passage 43, as indicated by the dashed line. When driven by the motor 51B, the switch 51S moves to a position (closed position CL) that closes the bypass air passage 43, with a height dimension H1 (270 mm) and a lateral width dimension W7 (30 mm) of the inlet 43A. In other words, at its maximum movement, the switch maintains the closed state at the closed position CL.

Furthermore, the shutter 51S is not required to completely seal the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 in the closed position CL. A slight gap around the shutter 51S in the closed position CL does not pose a problem for the basic performance of the dehumidifier 1. Alternatively, a sealing member made of a flexible silicone rubber material, such as silicone, could be provided at the inlet 43A, with the shutter 51S in close contact with this sealing member, to enhance airtightness during closure.

In Figure 10 , reference numerals 51C and 51D are sensors that electrically detect when the switch 51S is in the open position OP and the closed position CL. Sensors 51C and 51D are, for example, infrared light sensors or magnetic detection sensors. The detection signals from these sensors 51C and 51D are input to the switch detection unit 53 and, ultimately, as the switch detection signal, to the main control device 18 (see Figure 11 ), described later.

Next, Figure 11 is explained. Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the main control-related components of the dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 1. Sensors 51C and 51D described in Figure 10 are omitted from the illustration.

The main control unit 18 is responsible for controlling the entire dehumidifier 1. It includes a drive circuit, power supply circuit, and electronic components such as sensors that control the operation of the various components of the dehumidifier 1; a CPU (central processing unit) 24, such as a microcomputer, incorporated into this electronic circuit board; and memory devices such as ROM and RAM. The CPU 24 includes a timer unit 24T, which measures time, such as operating time.

The main control device 18 receives an input command signal corresponding to an operation of the input operation unit 17 and issues a command signal to the drive circuit (inverter circuit) 27 of the electric compressor 6. Furthermore, the main control device 18 issues a command signal to the drive circuit 28 to control the operation of the motor 21A of the fan 21. Furthermore, the main control device 18 issues a command signal to the drive circuit 29 to control the airflow restriction device 51.

The main control device 18 issues various command signals required for transmitting and receiving information to the wireless communication unit 26. Furthermore, when the wireless communication unit 26 is not in use, it issues command signals to stop and start power supply to the wireless communication unit 26.

Furthermore, the main control device 18 receives user commands from the input operation unit 17 and also issues commands via a local area network device and an internet line (not shown) to obtain necessary "control data" and "notification data" (these data will be described later) from the outside.

Furthermore, based on detection signals from the on/off detector 53, room temperature sensor 35, dust sensor 62, humidity sensor 61, and gas sensor 63, the main control unit 18 controls the drive circuit (inverter circuit) 27 and the drive circuit 29 of the airflow restricting device 51. The airflow restricting device 51, which receives the drive command from the drive circuit 29, comprises a switch 51S (see Figure 10) and a motor 51B.

The input operation unit 17 includes an operating mode switch 17S. The notification unit 23 includes a display unit 23D and an audio notification unit 23V.

The main control unit 18 includes a memory device 25, which stores various "operation programs" and parameter data used to control the dehumidifier 1 (hereinafter referred to as "control data"), as well as display data and audio notification data used by the display unit 23D and audio notification unit 23V (hereinafter referred to as "notification data"). The "operation programs" described above are also referred to as control programs. Hereinafter, they are collectively referred to as "programs."

The main control unit 18 serves as the master computer, providing overall control of the dehumidifier 1. Alternatively, one or more microcomputers (also referred to as "sub-control units" or "slave microcomputers") may be provided in a subordinate relationship with the main control unit 18 to control the input operation unit 17, the notification unit 23, or the drive circuit 27 of the electric compressor 6. Furthermore, the sub-control units may be configured to exclusively handle input operation data processing, notification, and drive control of the electric compressor 6.

The circuits, components, and devices shown in Figure 11 are conceptual and not necessarily physically configured as shown. The functions of these circuits can be distributed or centralized, and the specific configuration is not limited to that shown. Depending on the function or operating conditions, all or part of each function can be functionally or physically decentralized or centralized in any unit.

The functions of the timer unit 24T, the driver circuit 29, and the switch detection unit 53 are implemented by a processing circuit. The processing circuit that implements each function may be dedicated hardware or one or more processors executing programs stored in the memory device 25.

Alternatively, a dedicated processing unit can be provided, and its judgment signal can be input to the main control device 18. This processing unit centrally collects detection data from various sensors, such as the room temperature sensor 35, the dust sensor 62, a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature of important parts of the dehumidifier 1 (such as the electric compressor 6), and the gas sensor 63, and determines whether the operating status is appropriate or abnormal. In this case, the processing unit can also be dedicated hardware or implemented by a processor executing a program stored in the memory device 25.

Furthermore, the various functions of the main control device 18 are implemented using software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software and firmware are written as programs and stored in the memory device 25, which is a memory. The CPU (processor) 24 implements the various functions of the main control device 18 by reading and executing the programs stored in the memory device 25.

In addition, the memory device 25 is typically a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.

Furthermore, the dehumidifier 1 may not store some of the data and programs in the memory device 25 but rather store them on an external storage medium (such as a storage server). In this case, the dehumidifier 1 accesses the external storage medium (such as a storage server) via wireless or wired communication via the wireless communication unit 26 to obtain the required data or program information.

Furthermore, the operating programs of the main control device 18, the input operation unit 17, and the notification unit 23 can be updated to be appropriately improved according to the wishes of the user or the manufacturer of the dehumidifier 1. In this case, for example, the dehumidifier 1 can also receive the modified program via the wireless communication unit 26.

As shown in Figure 11, in this embodiment 1, the dehumidifier 1 includes a humidity sensor 61 (see Figure 3). The humidity sensor 61 is located inside the housing 10. An opening (not shown) is provided near the humidity sensor 61 in the housing 10, allowing the humidity sensor 61 to communicate with the exterior of the housing 10. The humidity sensor 61 obtains humidity detection information from the main control unit 18, thereby measuring the indoor humidity. The measurement results of the humidity sensor 61 are displayed on the display unit 23D, which receives display commands from the main control unit.

In Figure 11, reference numeral 19 denotes the power supply unit, which receives AC power from the commercial power source 40 and supplies power at a predetermined voltage to various components. For example, the power supply unit 19 receives 200V or 220V, 50Hz, or 60Hz power from the commercial power source 40, converts it into AC power or DC power at various voltages, such as 5V, 15V, or 220V, and supplies it to the main control unit 18, the drive circuit 27, the notification unit 23, and the drive circuit 29.

The input operation unit 17 is provided with a power switch operation button (not shown), which allows the user to turn the main power switch (not shown) located between the power supply unit 19 and the commercial power supply 40 on and off.

In Figure 11, reference numeral 13A is a drive circuit used to open and close the aforementioned shutter 13 installed on the top of the box 10. Reference numeral 13M is a motor that receives power from the drive circuit 13A and opens and closes the shutter 13.

Next, the operation of the dehumidifier 1 in Embodiment 1 will be described. In Embodiment 1, several preset "operation modes" are stored in the memory device 25 of the main control device 18.

Examples of "operation modes" include "dehumidification operation mode," "air purification operation mode," and "dehumidification and air purification automatic operation mode." Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation steps of the dehumidifier 1 during dehumidification operation according to Embodiment 1. Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation steps of the dehumidifier 1 during air purification operation according to Embodiment 1. Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the operation steps of the dehumidifier 1 during dehumidification and air purification operation according to Embodiment 1.

When dehumidifier 1 is stopped, main control unit 18 controls the compressor 6's drive motor (not shown), louver 13's drive motor 13M, and motor 21A to all stop. In other words, no power is supplied to the compressor 6's drive motor (not shown), motor 13M, and motor 21A.

Therefore, the blind 13 and the shutter 51S respectively maintain the closed state of the air outlet 12 and the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43.

Next, using Figure 12, we will explain how to start the "dehumidification mode."

The "dehumidification mode" is used to dehumidify the indoor environment. For example, the user turns on the operation switch (main power switch) on the input operation unit 17, activating the main control device 18 and thereby starting the operation of the dehumidifier 1.

When the dehumidification mode is selected by switching the operation mode switch 17S, the dehumidifier 1 starts the dehumidification operation according to the following steps.

First, the main control device 18 starts energizing the motor 13M that drives the blind 13 in order to open the air outlet 12, thereby controlling the open position of the blind 13 (step S001).

Motor 13M, for example, uses a stepper motor. It rotates incrementally by a fixed angle in a predetermined direction in response to the drive signal from drive circuit 13A. The internal mechanical structure of motor 13M enables high-precision positioning even with open-loop control. Motor 13M rotates in increments according to the number of pulses from drive circuit 13A. This allows the blind 13 to be maintained open to a specified angle (e.g., 45, 60, or 75 degrees).

Next, the main control device 18 sends a command signal to the drive circuit 29 to open the switch 51S to the open position OP (see Figure 10), supplying drive power to the motor 51B to control the open position.

Since motor 51B is, for example, a stepping motor, switch 51S rotates in a predetermined direction by a fixed angle in response to a drive signal from drive circuit 29. This rotation opens inlet 43A of bypass air passage 43 (step S002).

A drive command is sent from the main control unit 18 to the drive circuit 29, as indicated by the dashed arrow in Figure 10. This signal is also transmitted to the switch detection unit 53. When the switch detection unit 53 receives this signal, sensors 51C and 51D are activated.

When the bypass ventilation passage 43 is closed, the sensor corresponding to the closed position CL detects that the switch 51S has changed from a "present state" to a "non-present state" at a predetermined position.

The other sensor, corresponding to the open position OP, detects when the switch 51S changes from a "non-existent state" to a "present state" at a predetermined position. This allows the main control unit 18 to determine that the switch 51S has effectively opened the bypass air passage 43.

As described above, because a stepping motor is used for motor 51B, switch 51S rotates sequentially by a fixed angle in a predetermined direction in response to the drive signal from drive circuit 29. Therefore, the switch detection unit 53 and sensors 51C and 51D can be omitted.

In this embodiment 1, the opening and closing operation of the switch 51S, which is related to the basic function of the dehumidifier 1, is emphasized. In order to ensure safe operation even if there is any malfunction of the switch, an opening and closing detection unit 53 and sensors 51C and 51D are provided.

Next, after determining in step S002 that switch 51S is open, main control unit 18 drives motor 21A, controlling fan 21 to rotate at a preset high speed (step S003). It also controls the drive motor (not shown) that drives electric compressor 6. This causes electric compressor 6 to begin compressing the refrigerant (step S004).

The main control unit 18 uses the humidity sensor 61 to monitor humidity. The humidity sensor 61 begins detecting the humidity of the air surrounding it and transmits the detected data to the main control unit 18. The main control unit 18 then determines whether the humidity is above 50% (step S005). If the humidity is above 50%, the drive motor of the electric compressor 6 continues to operate, performing dehumidification (step S006). After a predetermined period of time, the process returns to step S005.

On the other hand, if the humidity is below 50% in step S005, the main control unit 18 controls the electric compressor 6 to stop driving the drive motor, and the electric compressor 6 stops compressing the refrigerant (step S007). At this time, the main control unit 18 controls the fan 21 to continue rotating the motor 21A, and after a predetermined period of time, returns to step S005.

In the above description, the humidity sensor 61's humidity detection threshold is set to 50% as an example of whether the dehumidification mode can be operated (a criterion for determining whether the dehumidification mode can be operated). However, the threshold may be another value.

Next, using Figure 13, we will explain the "air purification mode" scenario.

The "air purification mode" is an operation mode for purifying indoor air. For example, when the user turns on the main power switch of the input operation unit 17 and selects the air purification mode using the operation mode switching switch 17S, the dehumidifier 1 begins air purification operation according to the following steps.

First, the main control device 18 sends a start signal to the drive circuit 13A to open the air outlet 12 of the blind 13, thereby starting the operation of the blind driving motor 13M. The blind 13 is then opened to the predetermined position (step S101).

Next, the main control device 18 drives the motor 21A, controlling the fan 21 to rotate at a preset high speed (step S102). The main control device 18 issues measurement commands to the dust sensor 62 and the gas sensor 63. The dust sensor 62 and the gas sensor 63 respectively begin detecting dust and gas in the air surrounding the sensors and transmit the data to the main control device 18. The main control device 18 determines the degree of air pollution based on the acquired data (step S103).

If, in step S103, the air pollution level is determined to be low, the main control device 18 issues a speed change command to the drive circuit 28, causing the fan 21, which was previously operating at a high speed, to rotate at a low speed. The drive circuit 28 controls the motor 21A to reduce its number of revolutions per unit time (step S104), performing an air purification operation (weak) (step S105). After a predetermined period of time, the process returns to step S103.

On the other hand, if the air pollution level is determined to be high in step S103, the main control unit 18 initiates an air purification operation (strong) (step S106) to continue this strong operation, as the fan 21 has been operating at a high speed since step S102. Specifically, no speed change command is issued to the drive circuit 28, and the process returns to step S103 after a predetermined period of time.

Next, using Figure 14, we will explain the "Dehumidification Air Purification Mode" operation.

The dehumidification and air purification operation mode switches the dehumidifier 1 between the dehumidification mode and the air purification mode, depending on the indoor humidity or air pollution. For example, when the user turns on the main power switch of the input operation unit 17 and selects the dehumidification and air purification mode using the operation mode switch 17S, the dehumidifier 1 begins the dehumidification and air purification operation as follows.

First, the main control device 18 issues a drive command to the drive circuit 28, controlling the blind-driving motor 13M to open the blind 13 and the air outlet 12 (step S201). Next, the main control device 18 issues a drive command to the drive circuit 29, controlling the opening and closing motor 51B of the shutter 51S to open the shutter 51S. This opens the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 (step S202).

When the main control device 18 determines that the switch 51s has opened to a predetermined position, it issues a predetermined drive command to the drive circuit 28 to drive the motor 21A. The drive circuit 28 controls the speed of the motor 21A to rotate the fan 21 at a predetermined high speed (step S203).

Furthermore, the main control unit 18 starts the operation of the motor 6M (not shown) driving the electric compressor 6, controlling the motor 6M to drive at a predetermined rotational speed. This causes the electric compressor 6 to begin compressing the refrigerant (step S204).

The humidity sensor 61 begins detecting the humidity of the air surrounding it and transmits the humidity detection data to the main control device 18. The main control device 18 determines whether the humidity is above 50% (step S205).

If the humidity is above 50%, the motor 6M (not shown) driving the electric compressor 6 continues to operate. The dust sensor 62 and the gas sensor 63 begin detecting dust and gas in the air surrounding their respective sensors, determining the degree of air pollution (step S206). If the air pollution level is low, steps S202, S203, and S204 continue, and dehumidification operation is performed (step S207). After a predetermined time has passed from step S206, the process returns to step S205.

If the air is highly polluted, the main control unit 18 controls the motor 51B driving the airflow restrictor 51 to close the shutter 51S. Furthermore, the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 is closed (step S208). The dehumidification air purification mode is set to "Strong" (step S209). After a fixed time has passed from step S206, the process returns to step S205.

In step S205, if the humidity is below 50%, the main control unit 18 controls the electric compressor 6 to stop driving the motor 6M, and the refrigerant compression operation of the electric compressor 6 stops (step S210).

In this state, the main control device 18 controls the dust sensor 62 and the gas sensor 63 to begin detecting dust and gas in the air around their respective sensors and determine the degree of air pollution (step S211).

If the air pollution level is low, motor 21A is controlled to rotate fan 21 at a preset low speed (step S212), performing a circulation operation that only supplies air without dehumidification (step S213). After a fixed time, the process returns to step S205.

In the event of severe air pollution, the main control unit 18 sends a closing command signal to the drive circuit 29 to close the switch 51S. The drive circuit 29 then activates the drive motor 51B, moving the switch 51S to the closed position CL.

Through the above actions, the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 is closed (step S214). The fan 21 maintains the "strong" mode in step S203 and enters the "strong" air purification mode (step S215). After a fixed time has passed from step S214 or step S215, the process returns to step S205 in the dehumidification mode in Figure 12. Furthermore, the humidity threshold value of the humidity sensor 61 in step S205 is set to 50% as the criterion for switching to the dehumidification mode or the air purification mode, but other values may also be used.

In this manner, the provision of the airflow restriction device 51 that closes the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 facilitates selection of the air passage suitable for dehumidification and air purification operations from either the bypass air passage 43 or the main air passage 44, resulting in a highly user-friendly dehumidifier 1.

Next, Figure 15 is explained. Figure 15 is a flow chart showing the basic operating steps of the main control device 18 when the dehumidifier 1 of embodiment 1 starts operating.

First, use the input operation unit 17 to turn on the main power switch (not shown), and then operate the operation mode switch 17S. In this way, select an operation mode such as "Dehumidification Operation" or "Air Purification Operation."

Then, power begins to be supplied from the power supply unit 19 to the main control unit 18. The main control unit 18 then checks its internal components to see if there are any abnormalities.

Furthermore, if the initial abnormality determination indicates no abnormality, a command signal to open the blinds 13 is sent to the drive circuit 13A (step S300).

In step S300, the blind 13 is rapidly rotated to the predetermined open position by the motor 13M. Furthermore, the main control unit 18 sends an opening command signal to the drive circuit 29 for the switch 51S. Furthermore, the timer unit 24T begins measuring the elapsed time from this point in time (step S301).

The motor 51B of the airflow restrictor 51 is driven by the drive circuit 29. The switch 51S is rotated by the motor 51B about the shaft 51E through a range of approximately 90 degrees to the open position OP. This opens the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43.

Next, the main control device 18 waits for an opening detection signal from the opening/closing detection unit 53 to determine whether the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 is open (step S302). If the determination in step S302 is "Yes," a command signal to start air flow is sent to the drive circuit 28. In this case, the command for the air flow intensity is "High," and the fan 21 begins operating in the "High" operating mode determined based on the rated air flow performance (step S303).

On the other hand, if the result of step S302 is "No," the process proceeds to step S304. In step S304, if the time elapsed since step S301 does not exceed the predetermined "reference response time" (e.g., 10 seconds), the process returns to step S302 and determines whether the switch is open or closed based on the open detection signal from the open/close detector 53.

In step S304, if the time elapsed since step S301 exceeds the "reference response time" (e.g., 10 seconds), it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the airflow restricting device 51, and the notification unit 23 notifies the system that the switch 51S is not opening. For example, this notification is provided via text or an image on the display unit 23D. Furthermore, the audio notification unit 23V provides an audible notification, such as "The bypass air duct is not properly opened." Furthermore, after a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) has passed since these notifications, the main power switch is automatically turned off, and operation automatically terminates (step S305).

Alternatively, in place of step S305, the notification unit 23 may be used to notify the user of the operation without using the bypass air duct 43. Furthermore, if no input is made from the input operation unit 17, the power supply may be automatically turned off as shown in step S305.

Next, the air flow during the dehumidifier 1 of Embodiment 1's dehumidification and air purification operations will be described. Figure 16 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the air flow in the dehumidifier 1. Figure 17 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing the air flow during the dehumidification operation. Figure 18 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing the air flow during the air purification operation. The arrows in Figures 17 and 18 represent the air flow (airflow AF) during the operation of the dehumidifier 1.

During dehumidification operation, after the louver 13 and the shutter 51S are opened, the motor 21A is driven, and the fan 21 begins to rotate. Then, the electric compressor 6 begins to operate. As the fan 21 rotates, airflow AF is generated within the cabinet 10 from the suction port 11 to the discharge port 12. At this time, because the shutter 51S is open, the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 is also open. Air that has passed through the suction port cover 11A is branched into the bypass air passage 43 and the main air passage 44.

Of the bypass duct 43 and the main duct 44, the main duct 44 has a larger airflow area when viewing the dehumidifier 1 from the front. As shown in Figure 9 , the projected area of the main duct 44 when viewing the dehumidifier 1 from the front is determined by the height dimension H1 and the lateral width W1. As mentioned above, since H1 is 270 mm and W1 is 255 mm, the product of these two dimensions becomes the projected area.

On the other hand, the lateral width W7 of the bypass air duct 43 is 30 mm (see Figure 9). Furthermore, the height H1 of the bypass air duct 43 is 270 mm. In other words, the projected area of one bypass air duct 43 is determined by the product of the height H1 and the lateral width W7 (30 mm).

Because the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42, both of which have a thickness exceeding a certain value, are located in the main air duct 44, the pressure loss of the airflow AF passing through the main air duct 44 is relatively large. Therefore, the volume of the bypass airflow AF2 passing through the bypass air duct 43 is greater than the volume of the main airflow AF1 passing through the main air duct 44.

In the main air duct 44, the airflow (main airflow AF1) that has passed through the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42 merges with the bypass airflow AF2 that has passed through the bypass air duct 43 near the rectifying member 38.

The bypass airflow AF2 is the airflow that reaches the vicinity of the rectifying member 38 without passing through the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42. The bypass air passage 43, which forms part of the wind tunnel 46, has an air guide surface 46A directed toward the center of the evaporator 31. Therefore, the airflow AF2, which travels straight ahead through the bypass air passage 43, changes its course on the upwind side of the evaporator 31, which is part of the heat exchanger, toward the centerline HL (see Figures 2 and 3) passing through the center of the rotating shaft 21B.

In other words, airflow AF2 changes its course toward a horizontal reference line BL extending forward and backward through the center of the opening of the bell-shaped mouth 37 (see Figure 4). Consequently, near the rectifying member 38, the bypass airflow AF2 passing through the bypass air passage 43 and the main airflow AF1 passing through the left and right peripheral portions of the main air passage 44 are mixed before flowing into the evaporator 31.

The bypass airflow AF2 has a greater air volume per unit time than the main airflow AF1 passing through the main air passage 44. Furthermore, the bypass airflow AF2 has a higher wind speed than the main airflow AF1. Therefore, when the bypass air passage 43 lacks the wind-guiding surface 46A pointing toward the center of the heat exchanger, not only does pressure loss increase, but the wind speed distribution when entering the heat exchanger is also poor, resulting in poor heat exchange efficiency.

Downstream of the activated carbon filter 42, the evaporator 31, part of the heat exchanger, and the flow straightening member 38 are positioned facing each other across a first space 33 (distance D3, 10 mm). Furthermore, the activated carbon filter 42, part of the air purifier filter, and the flow straightening member 38 are positioned facing each other across a second space 34 (distance D4, 15 mm). Consequently, the bypass airflow AF2, which has passed through the bypass air passage 43, and the main airflow AF1, which has passed through the main air passage 44, are mixed within the second space 34 and the first space 33. This allows the airflow AF flowing into the evaporator 31 to be distributed and supplied to the evaporator 31 in a highly even manner, improving heat exchange efficiency.

Furthermore, the practical range of the spacing D3 of the first space 33 is 10 mm to 15 mm. Increasing this spacing D3 increases the depth of the housing 3. Furthermore, the practical range of the spacing D4 of the second space 34 is 15 mm to 20 mm. Increasing this spacing D4 increases the depth of the housing 3.

Furthermore, because the bypass ducts 43 are arranged parallel to the left and right sides of the main duct 44, the airflow imbalance entering the evaporator 31, which is part of the heat exchanger, can be reduced compared to a case where the bypass duct 43 is arranged only on one side of the main duct 44, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

The air (airflow AF) passing through the evaporator 31 exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 31. As mentioned above, the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 31 has been reduced in pressure by a pressure-reducing device (not shown). This pressure-reducing device is located midway in the refrigerant circuit (not shown) through which the refrigerant from the compressor 6 flows. Therefore, the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 31 has a lower temperature than the air drawn into the cabinet 10. The refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 31 absorbs heat from the air passing through the evaporator 31.

As shown above, the airflow AF passing through the evaporator 31 absorbs heat from the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 31. In other words, the airflow AF passing through the evaporator 31 is cooled by the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 31. As a result, moisture contained in the airflow AF passing through the evaporator 31 condenses, forming condensation. The condensed moisture in the air is removed from the air as liquid water. The removed water is stored, for example, in a water storage tank 7 (see Figure 1), which is located inside the housing 10. This water storage tank 7 is removable to the outside of the housing 10.

The air that has passed through the evaporator 31 is sent to the condenser 32. Heat is exchanged between the air passing through the condenser 32 and the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant piping of the condenser 32. The refrigerant flowing through the condenser 32 is cooled by the air passing through the condenser 32. The air passing through the condenser 32 is heated by the refrigerant flowing through the condenser 32.

The air that has passed through the condenser 32 is drier than the air outside the dehumidifier 1. This dry air then passes through the fan 21. The air that has passed through the fan 21 is then discharged from the outlet 12 toward the top of the housing 10. In this way, the dehumidifier 1 dehumidifies the air it receives. Furthermore, the dehumidifier 1 can supply dry air to the outside of the housing 3.

During air purification operation, after the louver 13 is opened, the motor 21A is driven with the shutter 51S closed, and the fan 21 begins to rotate. As the fan 21 rotates, airflow AF is generated within the cabinet 10 from the intake port 11 to the outlet 12. At this time, because the shutter 51S is closed, the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 43 is sealed. Because the bypass air passage 43 is sealed, the air that has passed through the intake cover 11A passes only through the main air passage 44 (supplying only the main airflow AF1 downstream).

When the fan 21 rotates, the interior of the cabinet 10 becomes negatively pressurized, drawing air into the main air duct 44. Because the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 are located in this main air duct 44, pressure loss is greater than during dehumidification operation. Therefore, the fan 21 rotates faster to produce the same air volume as during dehumidification operation, placing a greater load on the motor 21A. Consequently, operating noise (such as the rustling sound of the fan 21) increases. However, because the airflow AF1 passes only through the main air duct 44, the air blown out of the dehumidifier 1's outlet 12 is cleaner than during dehumidification operation. Furthermore, the activated carbon filter 42 also removes odorous components.

The air that has passed through the main air passage 44 flows into the evaporator 31. The flow of air into the evaporator 31 is the same as that during dehumidification operation.

Summary of Implementation Form 1.

A dehumidifier 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a housing 3 (housing 10) forming an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12; an air supply device (fan 21) generating an airflow AF from the air inlet 11 to the air outlet 12; two filters 41 and 42 serving as air purifiers disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10); and an evaporator 31 serving as a dehumidifier disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10) to remove moisture from the airflow AF.

Inside the housing 3, there are: a first air path (main air path 44), through which airflow AF passes through filters 41 and 42 and reaches the evaporator 31; a second air path (bypass air path 43), through which airflow AF reaches the evaporator 31 without passing through filters 41 and 42; and an airflow restrictor 51, which controls the amount of bypass airflow AF2 by varying the opening (cross-sectional area) of the inlet 43A of the second air path (bypass air path 43) from fully open to fully closed.

The inlet 43A of the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) is located outside the filters 41 and 42. The outlet 43B of the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) is located closer to the center of the filters 41 and 42 (closer to the centerline BL) than the inlet 43A.

Furthermore, the dehumidifier 1 is equipped with a control device (main control device 18) that controls the air supply device 21, the airflow restriction device 51, and the electric compressor 6. The control device (main control device 18) controls the airflow restriction device 51 in response to environmental information.

According to this embodiment, during dehumidification operation, because air flows through the second air path (bypass air path 43) without passing through filters 41 and 42, the rotation speed of fan 21 can be lowered compared to a case where all air flows through filters 41 and 42, thereby reducing noise generation.

Furthermore, the control device (main control device 18) automatically selects between dehumidification and air purification modes by controlling the airflow restriction device 51 in response to environmental information. Specifically, because the control device 18 automatically selects the appropriate air path for dehumidification and air purification, the user does not need to perform special air path selection, resulting in a highly user-friendly dehumidifier.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the environmental information obtained by the control device (main control device 18) includes at least one of first information indicating humidity and second information indicating air cleanliness. Therefore, depending on the humidity or air pollution level (determined by dust or odor components) in the space where the dehumidifier 1 is installed, it can automatically select between dehumidification operation using the second air duct 43 and air purification operation using the main air duct 44.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the control device (main control device 18) is configured to drive the air supply device and airflow restriction device 51 to bypass airflow AF2 in the second air duct 43 when both a first threshold value (e.g., 50% humidity) set for the first information and a second threshold value (low air pollution level) set for the second information are met. Therefore, depending on the humidity or air pollution level of the space where the dehumidifier 1 is installed, the dehumidification operation using the second air duct 43 or the air purification operation using the main air duct 44 can be automatically selected based on a fixed standard (threshold value).

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the dehumidifier 1 further includes an input operation unit 17 for accepting user input operations, and a notification unit 23 for notifying the user of the results of the input accepted by the input operation unit. The input operation unit 17 is provided with a power switch. When the power switch is turned on, the main control unit 18 drives the air supply device to generate airflow AF within the housing 3. The main control device 18 is configured to obtain environmental information (humidity and air pollution level) during the operation of the air supply device. When a first critical value (for example, humidity 50%) set for the first information and a second critical value (air pollution level "low") set for the second information (air pollution level) are both met (steps S205 and S206 in Figure 14), the main control device 18 drives the air flow restriction device 51 to allow air to flow in the second air path 43. Therefore, based on "environmental information" such as indoor humidity or air pollution levels, the dehumidification operation using the second air duct 43 or the air purification operation using the main air duct 44 can be automatically selected based on a fixed benchmark (threshold value). Furthermore, because environmental information is acquired during the operation of the air supply device 21, it can accurately obtain information based on the surrounding air conditions, allowing the appropriate operating mode to be selected based on the surrounding environment.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, compressor 6 is an electric compressor that compresses the refrigerant using motor power. A control device (main control device 18) issues command signals to the electric compressor 6, the air supply device 21, and the airflow restriction device 51. This control device 18 includes an operating program that obtains environmental information and determines whether to issue the aforementioned command signals. Therefore, depending on the humidity or air pollution level of the space where the dehumidifier 1 is installed, the electric compressor 6, the air supply device 21, and the airflow restriction device 51 are controlled separately. Based on the conditions specified in the operating program, the appropriate operating mode can be selected in response to the surrounding environment.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the air supply device receives one of the command signals and is configured to change its air supply performance via the drive circuit 28. Therefore, in response to "environmental information," the device can operate at an appropriate air supply intensity corresponding to the surrounding environment, according to the conditions specified by the operating program.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a humidity sensor 61 is provided to detect "humidity," a type of environmental information. Based on the detection results of the humidity sensor 61, the control device 18 can control the amount of airflow through the airflow restrictor 51, thereby enabling highly efficient dehumidification operation in accordance with the indoor humidity.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, because dust sensors 62 and gas sensors 63 are provided to detect air pollution, which is a type of environmental information, the control device 18 can control the amount of airflow through the airflow restrictor 51 based on the detection results of these air quality sensors. In other words, highly efficient air purification operation can be performed in response to the indoor air pollution status.

Furthermore, the control device 18 controls the amount of airflow through the airflow restrictor 51 based on the detection results of the humidity sensor 61, dust sensor 62, and gas sensor 63. Furthermore, the control device 18 controls the air supply device 21 or the electric compressor 6 based on these detection results. This allows for efficient and automatic selection between dehumidification and air purification operations.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the inlet 43A of the second air duct is located on the outer periphery of the air purifier (filters 41 and 42), while the outlet 43B of the second air duct 43 is located closer to the center of the air purifier (closer to the centerline BL) than the inlet 43A. This configuration allows the fan 21 to rotate at a lower speed during dehumidification operation than when all air is passed through the filters 41 and 42, thereby reducing noise generation. Furthermore, air from the bypass air duct 43 is directed to the downstream evaporator 31 for heat exchange.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the air purifier (filter) is a flat dust collection filter 41 installed in the first air duct 44. The lateral width W2 of the dehumidifier's evaporator 31 (e.g., 270 mm) is set larger than the maximum lateral width W9 of this filter 41 (e.g., 255 mm). This configuration allows airflows AF (AF1, AF2) that have passed through the main air duct 44 and the second air duct (bypass air duct 43) to exchange heat downstream of the evaporator 31 during both dehumidification and air purification operations. This second air duct does not pass through filters 41 and 42.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the air purifier comprises a first filter 41 and a second filter 42 (such as an activated carbon filter). The first filter 41 collects dust from the airflow AF, while the second filter 42 collects odor components from the airflow AF. This configuration provides a dehumidifier 1 capable of removing dust and odors.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a first filter 41 is positioned upstream of the airflow AF, while a second filter 42 is positioned downstream of the airflow AF, in contact with or close to the first filter 41. This configuration minimizes the depth of the air passage upstream of the evaporator 31, thereby preventing the dehumidifier 1 from increasing in size within the housing 3 (casing 10).

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the air inlet 11 is located at the front of the housing 3. When viewed from the front of the housing 3, the projected area encompassing the air inlet 11 and the inlet 43A of the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) is larger than the projected areas of the first and second filters 41 and 42. Specifically, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 9 , the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) is enlarged in the left-right direction by only the lateral width W7 (30 mm) of the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) relative to the respective left and right end surfaces of the first and second filters 41 and 42. Therefore, during dehumidification operation, air does not pass through the filters 41 and 42, and is supplied directly from the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) to the evaporator 31. Furthermore, this configuration does not sacrifice the area of the first filter 41 and the second filter 42, and therefore does not impair the air purification function.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when viewing the intake port 11 from the front of the housing 3, the inlet 43A of the second air passage is located further outward than the left and right edges of the intake port 11. Specifically, when viewing the intake port 11 from the front of the housing 3, the inlet 43A of the second air passage is located further to the right of the right edge or further to the left of the left edge of the intake port 11. Therefore, during dehumidification operation, air is supplied directly from the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) to the evaporator 31 without passing through the filters 41 and 42. Furthermore, this configuration does not compromise the area of the first and second filters 41 and 42, thus maintaining the air purification function.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a straight line connects the inlet 43A and outlet 43B of the second air passage. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4 , because the straight line from inlet 43A to outlet 43B forms a visible second air passage (bypass air passage 43), a large amount of air can be directly supplied from the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) to the evaporator 31 during dehumidification operation.

Furthermore, the first embodiment is characterized by a structure in which the first filter of the HEPA filter 41 maintains a predetermined thickness regardless of whether air to be dehumidified is passing through the first air passage or not. Specifically, as shown in FIG8 , because the structure includes a frame 41B and maintains the shape of the filter body 41A, the first air passage (main air passage 44) does not significantly deform, maintaining airflow.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the outer peripheral surfaces of the overlapping first and second filters 41, 42 form the inner wall of the second air passage (bypass air passage 43). Therefore, since a dedicated wall separating the first and second filters 41, 42 is not required to form the second air passage (bypass air passage 43), the structure can be simplified, resulting in cost savings.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the flow straightening member 38 has a characteristic structure (see Figures 3 and 4 ): a flat plate-shaped structure having multiple ventilation windows 38A. This allows for a more even distribution of the main airflow AF1 and the bypass airflow AF2 from the first and second filters 41 and 42 upstream of the evaporator 31. Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 4 , it is preferable if the inner surfaces of the multiple independent ventilation windows 38A are flat guide surfaces of a constant length (D5).

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a flow straightening member 38 is provided on the side opposite the suction port 11, separating the first and second filters 41, 42. This member maintains the distance between the filters 41 and 42 at a constant distance (distance D4) or greater. Consequently, the main airflow AF1 and the bypass airflow AF2 from the first and second filters 41, 42 are more evenly distributed upstream of the evaporator 31.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a flow straightening member 38 is provided to prevent the first filter 41 and the second filter 42 from moving toward the evaporator 31 side due to the passing main airflow AF1. Specifically, because the flow straightening member 38 has a rigid structure and is positioned to extend entirely across the upstream side of the evaporator 31, it prevents the first filter 41 and the second filter 42 from moving downstream or deforming due to the passing main airflow AF1. This prevents performance degradation caused by deformation or movement.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the distance between the rectifying member 38 and the evaporator 31 (distance D3 in the first space 33) is set within a range of 10 mm to 15 mm. Therefore, the main airflow AF1 and the bypass airflow AF2 are more evenly distributed upstream of the evaporator 31.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the air inlet 11 is located at the front of the housing 3 (box 10). When viewed from the front of the housing 3, the inlets 43A of the second air passage are located on both the left and right sides of the air inlet 11. This configuration allows air to be supplied directly to the evaporator 31 from the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) during dehumidification operation without passing through the filters 41 and 42. This reduces the bias in the airflow from the bypass air passage 43 into the evaporator 31, compared to a case where the bypass air passage 43 is located only on one side of the main air passage 44. This allows for a highly balanced flow of air into the evaporator 31. Furthermore, this configuration does not sacrifice the area of the first filter 41 and the second filter 42, and therefore does not impair the air purification function.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the airflow restricting device 51 is an opening/closing device that can selectively allow or block the bypass airflow AF2 in the second air passage (bypass air passage 43). Due to this configuration, as illustrated in FIG10 , the airflow restricting device 51 is constructed using a switch 51S and a motor 51B serving as a drive source. The switch 51S moves between an open position OP and a closed position CL, and the motor 51B operates the switch 51S. Therefore, the airflow restricting device 51 can be suitably installed within the housing 10, where installation space is limited.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the airflow restricting device 51 is characterized by a switch 51S that selectively allows and blocks the bypass airflow AF2 in the second air duct 43. Therefore, the airflow restricting device 51 can be suitably installed within the cabinet 10, where the installation space is limited.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the airflow restricting device 51 has a unique structure that receives an electrical signal and causes the switch 51S to open and close. Therefore, the user does not need to manually open and close the switch 51S, reducing the burden on the user associated with the dehumidification operation.

Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the dehumidifier 1 includes: a control unit (drive circuit 28) that controls the operation of the fan 21 of the air supply device; a refrigerant supply device (compressor 6) that supplies refrigerant to the dehumidifier (evaporator 31, etc.); a drive unit (motor 51B) that changes the position of the switch 51S; and a control unit (main control unit 18) that receives user commands and controls the control unit (drive circuit 28). The control unit (main control unit 18) issues a command to the drive unit (motor 51B) to open the switch 51S. Therefore, the user does not need to manually open and close the switch 51S, reducing the burden on the user associated with dehumidification operation.

While the fan 21 is running, the control device (main control device 18) receives commands from the user or detects that predetermined "environmental conditions" have been met. It then controls the drive unit (motor 51B) to open the aforementioned switch 51S.

Furthermore, the "environmental conditions" referred to herein are as described in the description of Embodiment 1, for example, meaning "the humidity in the room (space) where the dehumidifier 1 is installed exceeds 50%." Furthermore, as shown in the description of Figure 14 , it could also mean "exceeds 50%, or the degree of air pollution is low."

With this configuration, the user no longer needs to manually open or close the shutter 51S. Instead, the shutter 51S automatically opens by inputting a predetermined amount into the input operation unit 17. This reduces the burden on the user associated with dehumidification operation.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, the following second embodiment of a dehumidifier 1 is disclosed.

The dehumidifier 1 of the second embodiment includes: a housing 3 (housing 10) forming an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12; an air supply device (fan 21) generating an airflow AF from the air inlet 11 to the air outlet 12; two filters 41 and 42 serving as air purifiers disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10); and an evaporator 31 serving as a dehumidifier disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10) to remove moisture from the airflow AF.

Inside the housing 3, there are: a first air path (main air path 44), through which airflow AF passes through filters 41 and 42 and reaches the evaporator 31; a second air path (bypass air path 43), through which airflow AF reaches the evaporator 31 without passing through filters 41 and 42; and an airflow restrictor 51, which controls the amount of bypass airflow AF2 by varying the opening (cross-sectional area) of the inlet 43A of the second air path (bypass air path 43) from fully open to fully closed.

The aforementioned intake port 11 is located on the front of the housing 3. The projected shape of the intake port 11 as viewed from the front of the housing 3 is square or rectangular. The inlet 43A of the second air passage is continuous with and adjacent to the outer sides of the left and right edges of the intake port 11, and is formed symmetrically. The evaporator 31 is located substantially inward of the outer edge of the projected shape of the intake port 11 as viewed from the front of the housing 3.

Furthermore, a control device (main control device 18) is provided, which controls the air supply device, the airflow restriction device 51, and the electric compressor 6; the control device 18 controls the airflow restriction device 51 in response to environmental information.

Because of this configuration, the control device (main control device 18) controls the airflow restriction device 51 in response to environmental information, automatically selecting between dehumidification and air purification operations. In other words, because the control device 18 automatically selects the appropriate air path for dehumidification and air purification operations, no special effort is required from the user, resulting in a highly user-friendly dehumidifier.

Furthermore, due to this configuration, during dehumidification operation, air flows through the second air path (bypass air path 43), which does not pass through the air purifier, which has significant pressure loss. This allows the fan 21 to rotate at a lower speed than if all air were to flow through the air purifier, thereby reducing noise generation.

Furthermore, when viewing the intake port 11 from the front of the housing 3, the second air passage (bypass air passage 43) is configured to expand symmetrically outward from the left and right end surfaces of the intake port 11. This ensures that the air filtration (purification) area of the air purifier (filters 41 and 42) is not compromised, and bypass airflow AF2 can be supplied to the evaporator 31 in a highly balanced manner from both sides.

Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the evaporator 31 is characterized by a square or rectangular shape as viewed from the front of the housing 3 and includes multiple heat exchange fins with minute gaps through which the airflow AF passes. Therefore, when viewing the evaporator 31 from the front, a highly balanced bypass airflow AF2 is supplied from the bypass air passage 43 to the heat exchange fins at both the right and left ends.

Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the evaporator 31 has a transverse width W2 (270 mm, see Figure 7) as viewed from the front of the housing 3 that is larger than the transverse widths W8 and W9 of the air purifier (filters 41 and 42) (both 255 mm, see Figure 8), and smaller than the transverse width W1 (315 mm, see Figure 6) of the intake port 11 (front width). Therefore, when viewed from the front, the evaporator 31 can efficiently supply bypass airflow AF2 and main airflow AF1 to the heat exchange flat plate fins 31F at its right and left ends via the bypass air duct 43 and main air duct 44.

Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, a dehumidifier 1 according to the third embodiment is disclosed.

The dehumidifier 1 of the third embodiment includes: a housing 3 (housing 10) forming an inlet 11 and an outlet 12; an air supply device (fan 21) generating an airflow AF from the inlet 11 to the outlet 12; two filters 41 and 42 serving as air purifiers disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10); and an evaporator 31 serving as a dehumidifier disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10) to remove moisture from the airflow AF.

Inside the housing 3, there are: A first air path (main air path 44), which carries airflow AF through filters 41 and 42 to the evaporator 31; a second air path (bypass air path 43), which carries airflow AF to the evaporator 31 without passing through filters 41 and 42; and an airflow restriction device 51, which controls the bypass airflow AF2.

Furthermore, at the point where the main airflow AF1, which has passed through the first air path, and the bypass airflow AF2, which has passed through the second air path, converge, a flow straightening member 38 is positioned just before the evaporator 31. This straightening member is divided into a plurality of louvers 38A by frames 38B.

Furthermore, a control device (main control device 18) is provided to control the air supply device 21, the airflow restriction device 51, and the electric compressor 6. The control device controls the airflow restriction device 51 in response to environmental information.

Because of this configuration, the control device (main control device 18) controls the airflow restrictor 51 in response to environmental information, automatically selecting between dehumidification and air purification operation. Specifically, because the control device 18 automatically selects the appropriate air path for dehumidification and air purification operation, no special effort is required from the user, resulting in a highly user-friendly dehumidifier.

Furthermore, the presence of the aforementioned flow straightening member 38 prevents the distribution of the airflow AF upstream of the evaporator 31 from being concentrated in a limited area of the evaporator 31. In other words, the airflows from the first and second air paths can be efficiently directed toward the downstream evaporator 31, thereby improving dehumidification efficiency.

Implementation form 2

Figures 19 and 20 show dehumidifier 2 according to embodiment 2.

Figure 19 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air during dehumidification operation of the dehumidifier 2 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 20 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the flow of air during air purification operation of the dehumidifier 2 according to Embodiment 2. Components identical or corresponding to those of Embodiment 1 described in Figures 1 to 18 are designated by the same reference numerals.

In the second embodiment, the bypass air passage 43 shown in the first embodiment is positioned differently and is located below the air inlet 11.

In embodiment 1, the bypass air duct 43 is located on the left and right sides of the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42. The bypass air duct 43 and the main air duct 44 are located on the left and right sides of the air inlet 11, and are arranged parallel to each other.

In contrast, in embodiment 2, the bypass air duct 45 is located below the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42. The bypass air duct 45 and the main air duct 44 are arranged parallel to each other below the air inlet 11. In embodiment 2, no bypass air ducts are provided on the left and right sides of the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42.

In Embodiment 2, a bypass air duct 45 is provided below the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42. Its lateral width (W1) is equivalent to the lateral width of the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42. The bypass air duct 45 is a portion of the air duct that connects the air inlet 11 to the air outlet 12 within the space provided inside the front box 10F.

Because of this configuration, for example, if the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42 each have a lateral width of 255 mm, the lateral width W7 of the bypass air duct 45 is approximately 255 mm in Embodiment 2, rather than the 30 mm in Embodiment 1. Instead, the vertical dimension of the inlet 43A is set to approximately 30 mm.

The bypass airflow 45 is the airflow that allows the bypass airflow AF2 to flow downstream without passing through the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42. Here, the airflow in which the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42 are located is referred to as the main airflow 44.

The bypass duct 45 is positioned vertically above the main duct 44 and arranged in the front-to-back direction. This arrangement allows the dehumidifier 2 to be compact in its left-to-right dimensions by placing the bypass duct 45 adjacent to the main duct 44 below.

When viewing the dehumidifier 2 from the front, the lateral length of the bypass air passage 45 is preferably set to be approximately the same as the lateral length of the bypass air passage 45 of the HEPA filter 41. The term "front of the dehumidifier 2" used here is for the purpose of explaining this embodiment 2 and is different from the actual use of the dehumidifier 2.

The bypass air passage 45 and the main air passage 44 communicate with the exterior of the cabinet 10 via the space downstream of the activated carbon filter 42, namely, the second space 34, the rectifying member 38, the first space 33, and the air outlet 12.

That is, similar to the configuration described in Embodiment 1, the flow straightening member 38 faces the front of the evaporator 31, which is part of the heat exchanger, across the first space 33. Specifically, the flow straightening member 38 faces the evaporator 31 at a predetermined distance D3 (see Figures 5 and 6).

Furthermore, the flow straightening member 38 faces the back surface of the activated carbon filter 42 with the second space 34 interposed therebetween. In other words, the flow straightening member 38 faces the back surface of the activated carbon filter 42 with a predetermined distance D4 therebetween.

The main airflow AF1 that has passed through the main air passage 44 and the bypass airflow AF2 that has passed through the bypass air passage 43 merge just before the rectifying member 38 located downstream of the activated carbon filter 42 to form a single air passage.

The wind tunnel 46 is provided to cover the lower end surfaces of the HEPA filter 41 and the activated carbon filter 42 with a gap therebetween, and extends rearward from the edge of the air inlet 11.

The gap between the front end of the wind tunnel 46 and the lower end of the HEPA filter 41 forms the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 45. A guide surface 46A is provided at the rear end of the wind tunnel 46. This guide surface 46A redirects the bypass airflow AF2 flowing through the bypass air passage 45 upward (at an elevation angle) to direct it toward the center of the evaporator 31 (the second center point OB shown in Figure 7).

For example, the air guide surface 46A can be formed as a flat surface. By adjusting the normal direction of this plane, the direction of the bypass airflow AF2 can be adjusted. Alternatively, the air guide surface 46A can be formed as a curved surface. By adjusting the curvature of the curved surface, the expansion of the bypass airflow AF2 can be adjusted.

A shutter 51S is installed in the bypass air duct 45 to open and close the duct. The shutter 51S is constructed of a plate-shaped member and is located downstream of the air inlet cover 11A. The shutter 51S is supported by a shaft (not shown) located on the lower end of the plate-shaped shutter 51S, on the side opposite the HEPA filter 41, and is driven by a motor 51B (not shown) that drives the shutter. The rotation angle of the motor 51B is controlled by the main control unit 18 (not shown). Therefore, a stepper motor is preferably used for the motor 51B.

The switch 51S opens and closes the inlet 43A of the bypass air passage 45. The switch 51S is driven by a driving motor 51B (not shown) about a rotating shaft 51E (not shown) from a position closing the bypass air passage 45 to a position opening the bypass air passage 45 downstream of the bypass airflow AF2. The switch 51S is constructed from a single plate-shaped member. Because the rotating shaft 51E driven by the opening and closing motor 51B is a single unit, the dehumidifier 2 has a simple structure and is easily controlled.

Although not shown, this second embodiment also includes a gas sensor 63. This gas sensor 63 is located within the housing 10, below or near the intake port 11, on the right or left side of the intake port 11. An opening (not shown) is provided in the wall of the housing 10 near the gas sensor 63, connecting it to the outside of the housing 10. This opening allows the gas sensor 63 to easily sense the indoor air surrounding the dehumidifier 2.

As described in Embodiment 1, the gas sensor 63 transmits gas detection data to the main control device 18. Based on this data, the main control device 18 determines the odor level of the indoor air. Furthermore, similar to Embodiment 1, the measurement results of the gas sensor 63 are displayed on the aforementioned display unit 23D by the main control device 18.

The operation of the dehumidifier 2 of Embodiment 2 is similar to that of the dehumidifier 1 of Embodiment 1, including a dehumidification mode, an air purification mode, and a dehumidified air purification mode. The opening and closing control of the switch 51S and the control of the opening degree in the dehumidification mode, air purification mode, and dehumidified air purification mode are similar to the opening and closing control of the switch 51S of the dehumidifier 1 of Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the opening degree refers to the ratio of the flow rate of the bypass airflow AF2 flowing in the bypass air passage 45 within a range of 100% to 0% (closed). For example, 80%, 70%, 50%, and 30% represent intermediate opening ratios.

Summary of Implementation Form 2

In this second embodiment, the following dehumidifier 2 is disclosed. The dehumidifier 2 illustrated in this second embodiment includes: a housing 3 (housing 10) forming an inlet 11 and an outlet 12; an air supply device (fan 21) generating an airflow AF from the inlet 11 to the outlet 12; two filters 41 and 42 serving as air purifiers disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10); and an evaporator 31 serving as a dehumidifier disposed within the housing 3 (housing 10) to remove moisture from the airflow AF.

Inside the housing 3, there are: a first air path (main air path 44), through which airflow AF passes through filters 41 and 42 and reaches the evaporator 31; a second air path (bypass air path 45), through which airflow AF reaches the evaporator 31 without passing through filters 41 and 42; and an airflow restrictor 51, which controls the amount of bypass airflow AF2 in the second air path (bypass air path 45).

The inlet 43A of the second air duct is located on the outer periphery below the filters 41 and 42. The outlet 43B of the second air duct 45 is located closer to the center of the filters 41 and 42 (closer to the centerline BL) than the inlet 43A. Furthermore, a control device (main control device 18) is provided to control the air supply device, the airflow restriction device 51, and the electric compressor 6. The main control device 18 controls the airflow restriction device 51 in response to environmental information.

Because of this structure, during dehumidification operation, air flows through the second air path (bypass air path 45), which does not pass through filters 41 and 42. This allows the fan to rotate at a lower speed than if all air were to flow through filters 41 and 42, thereby reducing noise generation.

Furthermore, the control device (main control device 18) automatically selects between dehumidification and air purification modes by controlling the airflow restriction device 51 based on environmental information. Specifically, because the control device 18 automatically selects the appropriate air path for dehumidification and air purification, the user does not need to perform special air path selection, resulting in a highly user-friendly dehumidifier. Furthermore, with other components identical to those of Embodiment 1, the same benefits as those described in Embodiment 1 can be achieved.

Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the second air duct (bypass air duct 45) is positioned below the HEPA filter 41 and activated carbon filter 42, and the second air duct (bypass air duct 45) is arranged parallel to the main air duct 44 in a vertical relationship. This allows the dehumidifier 2 to have a small horizontal dimension (lateral width).

Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the bypass air duct 45 is positioned adjacent to the lower portion of the main air duct 44. Furthermore, the air guide surface 46A provided in the bypass air duct 45 is configured to redirect the airflow passing through the bypass air duct 45 from a horizontal direction to an upward direction (elevation angle) and direct it toward the center of the evaporator 31. Alternatively, the bypass air duct 45 may be positioned adjacent to the upper portion of the main air duct 44. In this case, the air guide surface 46A provided in the bypass air duct 45 may also be configured to redirect the airflow passing through the bypass air duct 45 from a horizontal direction to a downward direction (elevation angle) and direct it toward the center of the evaporator 31.

Implementation form 3

Figures 21 to 25 illustrate a dehumidifier 1 according to Embodiment 3. Figure 21 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the dehumidifier. Figure 22 is an exploded transverse sectional view of the dehumidifier 1 shown in Figure 21, taken along line C-C. Figure 23 is a front view of the suction inlet frame used in the dehumidifier 1 shown in Figure 21. Figure 24 is a longitudinal (vertical) sectional view taken along the left-right center of the dehumidifier 1 shown in Figure 21. Figure 25 is a block diagram showing the main control-related components of the dehumidifier 1 shown in Figure 21. Components identical or corresponding to those in the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 20 are designated by the same reference numerals.

This third embodiment modifies the components of the bypass air duct 43 shown in the first embodiment. Furthermore, it features a human sensor 64, an example of a surrounding information acquisition unit that detects the presence of a user, etc., within the space where the dehumidifier 1 is installed. Furthermore, an infrared sensor 64S is installed within the housing 3 to detect the presence of a person.

As shown in Figure 21, a square suction inlet frame 50 is embedded in the front box 10F, which forms the suction inlet 11, as viewed from the front (front) side. This suction inlet frame 50 is formed entirely of thermoplastic plastic material by integral molding.

When viewing the air inlet frame 50 from the front (front), as shown in Figure 23, the upper wall 50T and lower wall 50U connect the right peripheral wall 50R to the left peripheral wall 50L. Furthermore, the right bypass air duct 43 is formed between the upper wall 50T, lower wall 50U, and right peripheral wall 50R.

Figure 22(A) shows the suction port frame 50 installed in the front box 10F, but as shown by the dotted line, the suction port cover 11A is not installed.

Figure 22(B) shows the state before the suction port frame 50 is installed in the front box 10F. Therefore, the cross-sectional shapes of the suction port frame 50 and the front box 10F are fully understood. Furthermore, in Figure 22(B), as indicated by the dotted line, the suction port cover 11A is not installed.

A left-side bypass air passage 43 is formed between the upper wall 50T, the lower wall 50U, and the left peripheral wall 50L. The inlet 43A and outlet 43B of the left and right bypass air passages 43 are of the same size (diameter).

Reference numeral 50B denotes a stepped portion (recessed portion) formed at the front ends of the peripheral walls 50L and 50R, which is used to receive the suction port cover 11A. Specifically, this stepped portion 50B allows the suction port cover 11A to be removably mounted on the housing 10 without protruding forward beyond the front surface of the front housing 10F.

As shown above, one of the characteristic features of this third embodiment is the formation of right-side peripheral walls 50R1 and 50R2 and left-side peripheral walls 50L1 and 50L2 as continuous partitions extending from the edge of the intake port 11 toward the downstream side of the airflow AF. These partitions (peripheral walls 50R1, 50R2, 50L1, 50L2) divide the space between the inlet 43A and outlet 43B of the bypass air passage 43 into two spaces.

Furthermore, one of these spaces serves as the first air passage, while the other serves as the second air passage (bypass passage 43). Specifically, rather than forming bypass passage 43 using the outer peripheral surfaces of the two filters 41 and 42 as described in Embodiments 1 and 2, a bypass passage 43 of a predetermined size is formed within the interior of the intake frame 50.

Next, let's explain Figure 24. In the dehumidifier 1 shown in Figure 24, the bypass air duct 43 and the main air duct 44 are adjacent to each other on the left and right, similar to the first embodiment.

On the rear side of the housing 3 of the dehumidifier 1 is a heat-sensing infrared sensor 64S. This sensor detects the surface temperature of the target area without any contact. The infrared sensor 64S is connected to the human sensor 64 (see Figure 25).

Based on the sensing results of infrared sensor 64S, the presence of a person in the room is determined. For example, if the sensing results of infrared sensor 64S change significantly, it can be inferred that the heat source has moved, and the presence of a person can be determined. Infrared sensor 64S can be any sensor capable of detecting the presence of a person, such as an ultrasonic sensor or other human detection sensor.

The infrared sensor 64S's detection range (target area) is set toward the rear of the dehumidifier 1's housing 3, namely, the rear box 10B. In actual use, the rear box 10B is the side of the dehumidifier 1 that is most accessible to users. Therefore, the dehumidifier 1 can be positioned so that the rear box 10B faces the center of the room, for example.

Alternatively, the infrared sensor 64S can detect the presence of a person and control the opening and closing of the switch 51S. For example, if the human sensor 64 detects the presence of a person in the room based on the sensing signal from the infrared sensor 64S, the main control device 18 can send a command signal to the airflow restriction device 51 to close the switch 51S, assuming that the movement of the person will cause dust to be raised. In other words, the drive motor 51B is controlled to operate with the switch 51S closed. This means that the air purification operation is automatically performed without any special input from the user.

Next, let's explain Figure 25. Reference symbol 64 denotes the human presence sensor, which receives the sensing signal from the infrared sensor 64S and determines the presence of a person. This human presence sensor 64 does not require dedicated hardware and can be implemented as part of the program that implements the functions of the main control device 18. Furthermore, a processing circuit shared with other sensors (e.g., the dust sensor 62) can also be provided to maintain the human presence detection function.

Reference numeral 64M denotes a drive mechanism, which is used to expand the sensing range of the infrared sensor 64S. This drive mechanism 64M is a driving source that drives an actuator, etc., in response to a command signal from the main control device 18. This actuator comprises electrical and mechanical components such as an electric motor.

Drive mechanism 64M is fixed to infrared sensor 64S. When drive mechanism 64M is actuated, the temperature sensing surface of infrared sensor 64S is oriented within a fixed range in the vertical or horizontal direction (e.g., 45 degrees in the horizontal direction, 15 degrees in the vertical direction), as indicated by the dashed line in Figure 24. In other words, the sensing range is expanded by the operation of drive mechanism 64M. Furthermore, drive mechanism 64M changes the direction of the sensing surface of infrared sensor 64S at fixed intervals. This drive type is determined by main control unit 18. Installation of drive mechanism 64M is not essential.

Alternatively, the infrared sensor 64S of the human sensing unit 64 can be configured so that the user can select the human sensing range. For example, the user can input the sensing range using the input operation unit 17 and the display unit 23D. The sensing range can be displayed graphically on the display unit 23D, and the user can determine the sensing range while viewing the graphical display using the input operation unit 17.

Summary of Implementation Form 3.

As described above, in this third embodiment, the air inlet frame 50 is incorporated into the front box 10F to form the bypass air passage 43.

That is, the bypass air passage 43 is not formed by utilizing the outer peripheral end surfaces of the two filters 41 and 42 as shown in the first and second embodiments.

Therefore, the bypass air passage 43 is formed so that its air permeability is not affected by the position or shape of the outer peripheral end surfaces of the filters 41 and 42. In other words, if the filters 41 and 42 are removed for replacement or inspection and then reinstalled during operation, there is no concern that the air permeability of the bypass air passage 43 will be reduced if the installation position of the filters 41 and 42 changes.

In contrast, according to the configuration of Embodiment 3, even if the placement of filters 41 and 42 is changed, there is no need to worry about the air permeability of bypass air passage 43 being directly affected. Therefore, the desired air permeability can be ensured even during long-term use, thereby maintaining stable dehumidification performance.

Furthermore, the dehumidifier 1 of embodiment 3 is provided with an infrared sensor 64S in the space where the dehumidifier 1 is installed. This sensor senses the heat emitted by a person, such as a user, and a human sensor 64 is provided. This sensor senses the presence of a person based on the sensing data from the infrared sensor 64S.

Furthermore, the main control device 18 controls the opening and closing of the switch 51S of the airflow restricting device 51 in response to the human detection result from the human sensor 64.

Because of this configuration, according to Embodiment 3, air purification and dehumidification operations can be appropriately and automatically selected depending on whether or not a user is in the room.

Furthermore, in this third embodiment, the main control device 18 is characterized by obtaining information regarding the presence of a person, such as a user, based on detection information from the infrared sensor 64S as a type of ambient information (human sensing information). If a third threshold value set for this human sensing information (third information) is met (for example, the presence of a person for a predetermined period of time or longer), the main control device 18 performs any of the following actions.

(1) In the "air purification priority mode", the state of the second air passage 43 is changed from a state where the bypass airflow AF2 flows to a state where the bypass airflow AF2 does not flow, or the state of the second air passage 43 is maintained closed by the airflow restriction device 51 (maintaining a state where the bypass airflow AF2 does not flow).

(2) In the "reduced operating noise mode", the state of the second air passage 43 is changed from a state where the bypass airflow AF2 is not flowing to a state where the bypass airflow AF2 is flowing, or the second air passage 43 is maintained open by the airflow restriction device 51 (maintaining the state where the bypass airflow AF2 is flowing).

The "Air Purification Priority Mode" is an operating mode selectable via the operating mode switching switch 17S on the input operation unit 17. Specifically, when the dehumidifier 1 detects the presence of a person in the living space, this convenient operating mode is designed to address dust generated by human movement, etc. Furthermore, the "Reduced Operation Noise Mode" is an operating mode selectable via the operating mode switching switch 17S on the input operation unit 17. Specifically, when the dehumidifier 1 detects the presence of a person in the living space, this mode aims to minimize the operating noise of the dehumidifier 1 and maintain a comfortable living space. This is also a convenient operating mode. Other advantages of Embodiment 3 are the same as those described for Embodiments 1 and 2.

Implementation form 4

Next, Embodiment 4 will be described. Figure 26 shows the structure of the dehumidifier 1 of Embodiment 4. Figure 26 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier of Embodiment 4, taken along the left-right center portion. Components identical or corresponding to those of the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 25 are designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

This fourth embodiment is characterized by obtaining information about the brightness of the space where the dehumidifier 1 is installed as a type of ambient information. Therefore, it is characterized by providing an illumination determination unit 65 (not shown) for obtaining ambient information, and also providing an illumination sensor 65S in the housing 3 for sensing illumination.

As shown in Figure 26, an illuminance sensor 65S is located on the upper surface 10UF of the dehumidifier 1 housing 10 (front housing 10F). This illuminance sensor 65S detects the brightness of the room. It is connected to the main control unit 18 via the aforementioned illuminance determination unit 65 (not shown).

The illuminance determination unit 65 does not require dedicated hardware and can be implemented as part of the program that implements the functions of the main control device 18. Alternatively, a processing circuit shared with other sensors (e.g., the dust sensor 62) can be provided to maintain the illuminance determination function.

Alternatively, the main control device 18 can detect the indoor brightness using the illumination sensor 65s and drive the motor 51B of the airflow restrictor 51 to control the opening and closing of the switch 51S (adjust the opening). For example, if the room is dark, such as at night, the switch 51S may be operated in the fully open position to minimize operating noise.

Summary of Implementation Form 4.

As described above, the dehumidifier 1 disclosed in this fourth embodiment includes not only the components of the first embodiment but also an illumination determination unit 65 and an illumination sensor 65S for detecting brightness. The illumination determination unit 65 uses illumination measurement data from the illumination sensor 65S to determine the illumination level. Furthermore, based on the illumination determination result, the main control unit 18 determines the degree of opening and closing of the bypass air duct 43 via the airflow restriction device 51. In other words, because the main control unit 18 automatically controls the opening and closing of the bypass air duct 43 in response to the room's brightness, it can appropriately select between air purification and dehumidification operation.

Furthermore, in this fourth embodiment, since the human sensor 64 described in the third embodiment is also provided, control can also be performed by sensing the presence of a person, as described in the fourth embodiment.

The various sensors for acquiring "environmental information" (humidity sensor 61, dust sensor 62, gas sensor 63) and the various sensors for acquiring "surrounding information" (infrared sensor 64S, illuminance sensor 65S) described in Embodiments 1 through 4 can be used individually or in appropriate combinations.

[Industrial Utilization]

The dehumidifier disclosed herein can be used, for example, to dehumidify indoor air.

1: Dehumidifier 3: Casing 5: Window 6: Electric compressor 7: Water tank 10: Casing 10F: Front cassette 11: Inlet 11A: Inlet cover 11A1: Vertical plate 11A2: Horizontal plate 20: Casters 51: Airflow restriction device

Claims (7)

A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information. The air purifier is a filter disposed in the first air duct. The lateral width of the evaporator of the dehumidifier is configured to be larger than the maximum lateral width of the filter. A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information. The air purifier is a filter disposed in the first air duct. The intake port is located at the front of the housing. When viewing the intake port from the front of the housing, a projected area encompassing the intake port and the inlet of the second air duct is larger than a projected area of the filter. A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information. The intake port is located at the front of the housing. When viewed from the front of the housing toward the intake port, the inlet of the second air passage is located further outward than the left and right side edges of the intake port. The second air passage is formed in a straight line from the inlet to the outlet of the second air passage. A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information. A partition wall is formed extending continuously from the rim of the inlet to the downstream side of the airflow. The partition wall divides the area between the inlet and the outlet of the second airflow path into two spaces. One of the two spaces is the first airflow path. The other of the two spaces is the second airflow path. A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and ambient information. The air purifier comprises a first filter for collecting dust from the airflow and a second filter for collecting odor components from the airflow. The first filter and the second filter each comprise a filter body and a frame covering the outer peripheral portion of the filter body. The outer peripheral surface of the frame of the first filter and the outer peripheral surface of the frame of the second filter constitute the inner wall surface of the second air passage. A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information. The airflow restriction device is capable of controlling the flow rate of the airflow in the second air path in multiple stages. A dehumidifier comprises: a housing forming an air inlet and an air outlet; an air supply device generating an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; an air purifier disposed within the housing; and a dehumidifier disposed within the housing for removing moisture from the airflow. The dehumidifier is characterized by: having: a first air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow passes through the air purifier and reaches the dehumidifier; a second air path formed within the housing, wherein the airflow reaches the dehumidifier without passing through the air purifier; an airflow restriction device restricting the flow of the airflow in the second air path; and a control device controlling the air supply device and the airflow restriction device. The control device controls the airflow restriction device in response to at least one of environmental information and surrounding information. The airflow restriction device includes a switch that controls the amount of airflow passing through the second air path; and a motor that receives an electrical signal and changes the position of the switch.