JP2001074336A - heat pump - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [PROBLEMS] To use a moisture permeable membrane for the treatment of steam in a heat pump using steam under atmospheric pressure as a refrigerant. SOLUTION: An evaporating section (10) is formed in a closed container shape, and an internal first low-pressure space (12) is brought into a reduced pressure state. Water is supplied to the first low-pressure space (12), and the water is cooled by self-evaporation. Evaporated water vapor flows from the first low-pressure space (12) to the compressor (50).
Is sucked into. The compressor (50) sends the sucked steam to the second low-pressure space (32) of the steam discharging section (30). The water vapor discharging portion (30) is formed in a container shape, and a second low-pressure space (32) is defined therein by a moisture permeable film (31). The steam pressurized by the compressor (50) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (31),
The air is discharged from the second low-pressure space (32) to the outdoor air in the second air space (33).

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat pump using steam as a refrigerant.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-257890, there has been known a heat pump which performs cooling and heating by utilizing the evaporation and condensation of water.

During cooling, the heat pump supplies water into a vacuum container maintained in a reduced pressure state (for example, about 4 to 5 mmHg), and generates cold water by self-evaporating water stored in the vacuum container. The generated cold water is pressurized to atmospheric pressure by a pump, taken out of the vacuum container, and used for cooling. Further, the vacuum vessel is maintained in a reduced pressure state by discharging the internal water vapor by the compressor.
The steam discharged by the compressor is introduced into a condenser.
Cooling water flows through the heat transfer tubes of the condenser, and water vapor is condensed outside the tubes by the cooling water inside the tubes.

[0004] On the other hand, during heating, the heat pump supplies water that has been subjected to heat exchange with the heat source water to a vacuum vessel to evaporate the water. The water vapor in the vacuum vessel is compressed by a compressor and sent to a condenser. The pressure of the steam is lower than the atmospheric pressure even after the compression. On the other hand, water is circulated through the heat transfer tubes of the condenser. Then, heat exchange is performed between water in the pipe and steam outside the pipe, and the water in the pipe is heated by heat of condensation of the steam.
The generated hot water is used for heating.

[0005]

In a conventional heat pump using water vapor at a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure as a refrigerant as described above, the water vapor is introduced into a condenser in order to process the evaporated water vapor, and the water vapor is introduced into a heat transfer tube. And condensed. On the other hand, conventionally, a moisture permeable membrane which does not allow liquid water to pass therethrough but allows gaseous water vapor to pass therethrough has been known. However, in a heat pump using low-pressure steam as a refrigerant, a moisture permeable membrane is not used for treating the evaporated steam, and a new device using the moisture permeable membrane has been desired.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above point, and an object thereof is to use steam under atmospheric pressure as a refrigerant, and to use a moisture permeable membrane for the treatment of steam. To provide an improved heat pump. still,
In this specification, the concept of the heat pump includes a so-called refrigerating device. That is, the heat pump in the present specification may be one that pumps out heat and only cools the target, or may pump up heat and heats only the target.

[0007]

Means for Solving the Problems -Solution means- A first solution means adopted by the present invention is directed to a heat pump, and has a first low-pressure space (12) in a predetermined reduced pressure state. (1) An evaporator (10) for evaporating water in the low-pressure space (12), a booster (50, 90) for sucking water vapor from the first low-pressure space (12) and raising the pressure, and a moisture permeable for transmitting the water vapor. The pressure increasing means (50, 9) partitioned by the membrane (31)
0), the second low-pressure space (3
And a water vapor discharge section (30) for permeating the moisture permeable membrane (31) and discharging water vapor from the second low-pressure space (32).

A second solution taken by the present invention is directed to a heat pump, in which a first low-pressure space (12) is defined by a moisture-permeable membrane (11) permeable to water vapor, and the first low-pressure space (12). Is brought into a predetermined reduced pressure state, and the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11) opposite to the first low pressure space (12) is brought into contact with water, and the water vapor evaporated from the water is removed to the first low pressure space (12) side. Evaporating part (10) for moving to the first low-pressure space (12)
Pressure boosting means (50,90) for suctioning water vapor from water and increasing the pressure
And a second low-pressure space (32) partitioned by a moisture permeable membrane (31) through which water vapor is transmitted and into which the steam pressurized by the pressure increasing means (50, 90) is introduced. ) And a water vapor discharge section (30) for discharging water vapor from the second low pressure space (32).

A third solution taken by the present invention is directed to a heat pump, which is partitioned by a moisture permeable membrane (11) permeable to water vapor so that a first low-pressure space (12) and an air space (13) are partitioned. The first low-pressure space (12) is brought into a predetermined reduced pressure state, and air and water are introduced into the air space (13),
The air is cooled by evaporating water in the air space (13), and water vapor in the air space (13) is removed from the first low-pressure space (1).
2) and the first low-pressure space (1)
Pressurizing means (50, 90) for suctioning water vapor from 2) and increasing the pressure
And a second low-pressure space (32) partitioned by a moisture permeable membrane (31) through which water vapor is transmitted and into which the steam pressurized by the pressure increasing means (50, 90) is introduced. ) And a water vapor discharge section (30) for discharging water vapor from the second low pressure space (32).

A fourth solution taken by the present invention is directed to a heat pump, wherein a first low-pressure space (12) is defined by a moisture-permeable membrane (11) permeable to water vapor. Is brought into a predetermined reduced pressure state, and the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11) opposite to the first low-pressure space (12) is brought into contact with the air to be cooled, so that the water vapor in the air to be cooled is converted into the first low-pressure space ( 12) The steam separator (15) to be moved to the side,
The pressure increasing means (50, 90) for sucking water vapor from the low pressure space (12) and increasing the pressure and the moisture permeable membrane (31) permeable to the water vapor are divided by the pressure increasing means (50, 90). A water vapor discharge section (30) having a second low pressure space (32) to be introduced, and permeating the moisture permeable membrane (31) to discharge water vapor from the second low pressure space (32); 15)
And a humidification cooling section (25) for cooling the air to be cooled supplied from the humidifier by humidification.

The fifth solution taken by the present invention is as follows:
In the fourth solution, the water vapor discharging section (3
0) contacting the surface of the moisture-permeable membrane (31) opposite to the second low-pressure space (32) with the atmosphere to form the second low-pressure space (32).
Is released to the atmosphere.

A sixth solution taken by the present invention is the fifth solution, wherein the third low-pressure space (42) is defined by the moisture-permeable membrane (41) through which water vapor passes, while the pressure increasing means ( 50,90) into the third low-pressure space (4
2), and the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (41) opposite to the third low pressure space (42) is brought into contact with water, and the water vapor in the third low pressure space (42) is released from the moisture permeable membrane (41). A condensing section (40) configured to permeate and condense, and heat the object using heat of condensation of water vapor in the condensing section (40). .

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the sixth aspect, an operation of heating the object and an operation of cooling the object using latent heat of evaporation of water in the evaporator (10). Is switched and performed.

The eighth solution taken by the present invention is as follows:
In the fourth solution, the water vapor discharging section (3
And heating means (35) for heating an object by heat of condensation of water vapor discharged from the second low-pressure space (32).

According to a ninth solution of the present invention, in the eighth solution, the condensed water generated by the heating of the object by the heating means (35) is supplied to the evaporating section (10). It is configured in.

The tenth solution taken by the present invention is as follows.
In any one of the ninth to ninth solutions, a bleeding means (65) for bleeding the second low-pressure space (32) is provided.

The eleventh solution of the present invention is as follows.
In any one of the tenth to tenth solving means, the boosting means (5
0) is a compressor (5
0).

The twelfth solution taken by the present invention is as follows.
In any one of the tenth to tenth solving means, the boosting means (9
No. 0) is provided with an absorbing medium for absorbing and releasing moisture, absorbing water vapor by absorbing the absorbing medium, and heating the absorbing medium to release moisture, thereby increasing the pressure of the water vapor.

The thirteenth solution taken by the present invention is as follows.
In any one of the tenth to tenth solving means, the boosting means comprises:
Steam generating means for generating steam by heating (115)
And an ejector (110) for sucking steam from the first low-pressure space (12) by a jet of steam generated by the steam generating means (115).

-Operation- In the first solution, the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10) is set to a predetermined pressure equal to or lower than the atmospheric pressure. Water is supplied to the first low-pressure space (12). In the first low-pressure space (12) in a reduced pressure state, a part of the supplied water evaporates, and the remaining water is deprived of latent heat of evaporation and cooled. Then, if the cold heat of the cooled water is used, it is possible to cool the object. The water vapor in the first low pressure space (12) is supplied to the pressure increasing means (50, 9
0) is sucked and discharged. Therefore, water evaporates continuously in the first low-pressure space (12).

On the other hand, a second low-pressure space (32) is provided in the water vapor discharge section (30). This second low-pressure space (32)
It is partitioned by the moisture permeable membrane (31). The steam pressurized by the pressurizing means (50, 90) is introduced into the second low-pressure space (32). Therefore, the second low-pressure space (32) has a higher pressure than the first low-pressure space (12). The water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (31) and is discharged from the second low-pressure space (32).

In the second solution, the first low-pressure space (12) is provided in the evaporator (10). The first low-pressure space (12) is partitioned by the moisture permeable membrane (11) and has a predetermined pressure equal to or lower than the atmospheric pressure. Water is supplied to the evaporating section (10). The supplied water comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11) on the side opposite to the first low-pressure space (12). Part of the supplied water evaporates into water vapor, and the water vapor passes through the moisture permeable membrane (1).
It passes through 1) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). The rest of the supplied water is deprived of latent heat of evaporation and cooled. On the other hand, the steam in the first low-pressure space (12) is supplied to the pressure increasing means (50, 9).
0) is sucked and sent to the water vapor discharge section (30),
Thereafter, the water is discharged from the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30). This operation is similar to that of the first solving means.

In the third solution, the first low-pressure space (12) and the air space (13) are provided in the evaporating section (10).
The first low-pressure space (12) and the air space (13) are formed by a moisture permeable membrane (1).
It is divided by 1). The first low-pressure space (12)
The predetermined pressure is equal to or lower than the atmospheric pressure. In the air space (13),
Water and air are supplied. In the air space (13), the supplied water evaporates. The water vapor in the air space (13)
It passes through the moisture-permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). Then, in the air space (13), cold heat is generated by the evaporation of water, and the generated cold heat cools the air.
On the other hand, the steam in the first low-pressure space (12) is supplied to the pressure increasing means (50, 9).
0) is sucked and sent to the water vapor discharge section (30),
Thereafter, the water is discharged from the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30). This operation is similar to that of the first solving means.

In the fourth solution, the first low-pressure space (12) is provided in the water vapor separation section (15). The first low-pressure space (12) is partitioned by the moisture permeable membrane (11) and has a predetermined pressure equal to or lower than the atmospheric pressure. To the steam separation section (15)
Inside air such as indoor air or indoor air is supplied. The supplied inside air is supplied to the first low pressure space (12) in the moisture permeable membrane (11).
And contact the opposite surface. The water vapor contained in shy air is
It passes through the moisture-permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). That is, water vapor is taken from the inside air, and the inside air is in a dry state. On the other hand, the water vapor in the first low pressure space (12) is sucked by the pressure increasing means (50, 90) and sent to the water vapor discharge section (30), and thereafter, the second low pressure space (32) in the water vapor discharge section (30). Is discharged from This operation is similar to that of the first solving means.

On the other hand, the dried inside air from which the steam has been deprived in the steam separating section (15) is sent to the humidifying cooling section (25).
In the humidification cooler, the dry air is humidified and cooled. That is, when the inside air is humidified, the absolute humidity rises due to a change in enthalpy and the temperature falls. The inside air cooled by humidification and adjusted to an appropriate humidity is used for, for example, cooling.

In the fifth solution, the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (31) on the side opposite to the second low pressure space (32) in the water vapor discharge section (30) comes into contact with the atmosphere. Then, the water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) permeates through the moisture permeable membrane (31) due to the difference in water vapor pressure on both sides of the moisture permeable membrane (31) and is released to the atmosphere.

In the sixth solution, the condenser (40) is provided, and the condenser (40) is provided with the third low-pressure space (42). The third low-pressure space (42) is partitioned by the moisture permeable membrane (41). The steam pressurized by the pressurizing means (50, 90) is introduced into the third low-pressure space (42).
Therefore, the third low-pressure space (42) is connected to the first low-pressure space (1).
Higher than 2). Further, water is supplied to the condensing section (40). The supplied water comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (41) on the side opposite to the third low-pressure space (42).
The water vapor in the third low pressure space (42) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (41), moves to the third low pressure space (42), and condenses. Then, the water is heated by the heat of condensation of the steam. The heat generated by the condensation of the steam is then used to heat the object.

In the seventh solving means, the operation of heating the object and the operation of cooling the object are switched and performed.

In the eighth solution, the heating means (35)
In, the object is heated using the heat of condensation of the steam released from the water vapor releasing section (30). That is, the heat pump operation is performed using the water supplied to the evaporator (10) as a heat source to heat the object.

In the ninth solution, the condensed water generated as the object is heated is supplied to the evaporator (10). That is, since the heating means (35) heats the target object using the heat of condensation of the steam, the steam is condensed during this heating to generate condensed water. Then, the generated condensed water is sent back to the evaporating section (10).

In the tenth solution, gas other than water vapor accumulated in the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30) is discharged by the extraction means (65). That is,
Since the second low-pressure space (32) is in a depressurized state below the atmospheric pressure, air and the like from the outside enter the second low-pressure space (32) except for gas such as nitrogen and oxygen in the air. May stay. On the other hand, the bleeding means (65) of the present solution discharges gas other than the above-mentioned steam from the second low-pressure space (32). The bleeding means (65) does not need to discharge only gas other than water vapor, but may discharge the gas together with water vapor.

In the eleventh solving means, the boosting means (5
0) is constituted by the compressor (50). Steam in the first low-pressure space (12) in the evaporator (10) or the steam separator (15) is sucked into the compressor (50). The compressor (50)
The suctioned water vapor is compressed and pressurized, and then sent to the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge part (30).

In the twelfth solving means, the boosting means (9
0) is provided with an absorbing medium. The pressurizing means (90) is provided with an evaporating unit (10) by absorbing water vapor into the absorbing medium.
Alternatively, water vapor is sucked from the first low-pressure space (12) in the water vapor separation section (15). The pressure increasing means (90) heats the absorbing medium to release water vapor. The pressure of the water vapor released from the absorbing medium is higher than that of the state where the water vapor is absorbed by the absorbing medium. That is, the pressure of the steam is increased. The pressurized water vapor released from the absorption medium is supplied to the water vapor discharge section (30).
To the second low pressure space (32).

In the thirteenth solution means, the pressure increasing means is constituted by the steam generating means (115) and the ejector (110).
The relatively high-pressure steam generated by the steam generating means (115) is sent to the ejector (110) and injected at a high speed. Then, the steam in the first low-pressure space (12) is sucked into the ejector (110) by the high-speed steam jet generated in the ejector (110). The water vapor sucked from the first low-pressure space (12) merges with the water vapor sent from the water vapor generation means (115) to increase the pressure, and thereafter, the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge part (30) Sent to

[0035]

According to the above-described means, there is provided a heat pump which operates using steam at a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure as a refrigerant,
It is possible to provide a water vapor release section (30) for releasing and processing water vapor using a moisture permeable membrane.

In particular, in the fifth solution, one surface of the moisture permeable membrane (31) is brought into contact with the atmosphere in the water vapor discharge section (30), and the water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) is converted into the air by the water vapor pressure difference. Release into. In other words, the water vapor discharge part (30)
Thus, water vapor can be released into the atmosphere without condensation. As a result, the steam pressure increase ratio in the pressure increasing means (50, 90) can be reduced, the energy required for increasing the steam pressure can be reduced, and the COP (coefficient of performance) can be improved. Hereinafter, this point will be described with reference to FIG.

The case where the fifth solution is applied to the first solution will be described as an example. Note that the values of the temperature and the pressure indicating the operation state are all examples. Here, the saturated steam pressure at a dry bulb temperature of 5 ° C. is 6.5 mmHg. Therefore, when the evaporating temperature of water is set at 5 ° C., the evaporating section (10)
Is 6.5 mmHg in the first low-pressure space (12).

When the steam in the evaporating section (10) is condensed and treated, it is necessary to make the saturated temperature of the steam after the pressure increase higher than the temperature of the cooling medium. When the cooling water cooled by the cooling tower is used as a cooling medium, 6.5 mmHg steam is a saturated steam pressure corresponding to the cooling water temperature of 32 ° C. even when the steam after the pressurization is brought into direct contact with the cooling water. 3
The pressure must be raised to 5.7 mmHg. in this case,
The step-up ratio in the step-up means (50, 90) is 5.5.

Further, if outside air is used as the cooling medium, equipment for the cooling tower becomes unnecessary, but in this case, the saturation temperature of steam must be higher than the outside temperature of 35 ° C. Specifically, if the saturation temperature of steam is to be 45 ° C., the pressure of steam must be increased to 72.3 mmHg. That is, 6.5 mmHg of steam was added to 72.
It is necessary to boost the pressure to 3 mmHg, and the boost ratio further increases to 11.1.

On the other hand, in the case of the first solution, if the pressure is raised to a pressure higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the atmosphere by a predetermined value, the water vapor moves due to the water vapor pressure difference on both sides of the moisture permeable membrane (31). I do. Assuming that the temperature of the outside air is 35 ° C., the saturated steam pressure is 22.9 mmHg, and the pressure may be increased to 27.9 mmHg, which is obtained by adding a steam pressure difference of 5 mmHg.
That is, the pressure of 6.5 mmHg steam may be increased to 27.9 mmHg, and the pressure increase ratio will be 4.3.

As described above, according to the first solution, the water vapor can be discharged into the atmosphere without being condensed in the water vapor discharge section (30). Pressurizing means (50, 9
The boosting ratio in 0) can be set small, and the energy required for boosting the steam can be reduced to improve the COP. It should be noted that even when the fifth solution is applied to the second to fourth solutions, the above effects can be obtained in the same manner.

According to the sixth to ninth solutions, the object can be heated by the heat pump operation. In particular, in the sixth solution, the condensed water in the heating section is returned to the evaporating section (10). For this reason, this condensed water can be used again as a heat source, and energy can be used effectively. Further, since water circulates between the evaporating section (10), the steam separating section (15) and the heating section, external water supply is not required.

In the tenth solution, gas other than the water vapor that has entered the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30) is discharged by the extraction means (65).
That is, when gases other than water vapor, such as nitrogen and oxygen in the air, are present in the second low-pressure space (32), the second low-pressure space (32) is maintained even if the pressure in the second low-pressure space (32) is constant. The partial pressure of water vapor in (32) decreases. For this reason, in the water vapor discharge part (30), the water vapor pressure difference on both sides of the moisture permeable membrane (31) becomes small. When the difference between the water vapor pressures on both sides of the moisture permeable membrane (31) is reduced, the amount of water vapor passing through the moisture permeable membrane (31) is reduced. On the other hand, according to the present solution, gas other than steam can be discharged by the bleeding means (65), and a steam pressure difference on both sides of the moisture permeable membrane (31) is ensured, so that the steam in the steam discharging section (30) is A sufficient release amount can be secured.

[0044]

Embodiment 1 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

The present embodiment is an air conditioner that performs cooling by utilizing cold generated by the heat pump according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, in the air conditioner, an evaporating section (10), a compressor (50) as a pressure increasing means, and a steam discharging section (30) are connected by a steam pipe (51). It is configured. Further, the air conditioner includes a use side circuit (20).

The evaporating section (10) is formed in a closed container shape, and its internal space is configured as a first low-pressure space (12). The first low pressure space (12) is in a predetermined reduced pressure state. That is, the pressure in the first low-pressure space (12) is set to a predetermined value lower than the atmospheric pressure. 1st low pressure space (12)
At the bottom, water is stored. And the evaporator (10)
Is configured to evaporate a part of the water stored in the first low-pressure space (12) under reduced pressure, and take the latent heat of evaporation from the remaining water to cool.

A water supply pipe (24) is connected to the evaporator (10). The water supply pipe (24) is configured to replenish the first low-pressure space (12) with an amount of water corresponding to the amount of evaporation. Further, the water supply pipe (24) is configured to spray water into the first low-pressure space (12).

The compressor (50) has an evaporator (1) on the suction side.
0) is connected to the first low-pressure space (12), and the discharge side is connected to the water vapor discharge section (30). This compressor (50)
The water vapor in the first low-pressure space (12) is suctioned and pressurized, and the pressurized water vapor is sent to the water vapor discharge section (30).

The water vapor discharging portion (30) is formed in a container shape, and a second low-pressure space (32) is defined by a moisture permeable film (31). The second low-pressure space (32) is configured as a closed space, and is connected to the discharge side of the compressor (50). That is, the steam pressurized by the compressor (50) is introduced into the second low-pressure space (32). Further, in the water vapor discharge section (30), a second air space (33) is formed on the opposite side of the moisture permeable membrane (31) from the second low pressure space (32). Outdoor air, which is air, is introduced into the second air space (33), and the outdoor air comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (31). The moisture permeable membrane (31) is made of a water vapor permeable polymer film or a water vapor permeable inorganic material film, and is configured to transmit water vapor. And the water vapor discharge part (30)
Is configured to transmit water vapor from the second low-pressure space (32) to the atmosphere through the moisture-permeable membrane (31).

The use side circuit (20) is formed by connecting a radiating heat exchanger (21), a circulating pump (23), and an indoor heat exchanger (22) in this order. Are configured to circulate. The heat radiation heat exchanger (21) is installed in the first low pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10), and exchanges heat with the water stored in the first low pressure space (12) to radiate heat. It is configured as follows. The indoor heat exchanger (22) is housed in a fan coil unit (not shown) and
0). The indoor heat exchanger (22) exchanges heat between the heat transfer water and the indoor air.

-Operation- An operation during the cooling operation will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 shows a standard operation state during the cooling operation, and the temperature and pressure used in the following description show values in the standard operation state. Therefore, the temperatures and pressures shown below are examples, and the values vary depending on the operating conditions.

The pressure in the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10) is set to 6.5 mmHg. Therefore, the evaporation temperature of water in the first low-pressure space (12) is set to 5 ° C. Further, water is supplied to the first low-pressure space (12) by a water supply pipe (24). The supplied water is stored at the bottom of the first low-pressure space (12), and a part of the water is evaporated, while the rest is deprived of latent heat of evaporation and cooled.

The water vapor evaporated in the first low-pressure space (12)
It is sucked by the compressor (50). The compressor (50) compresses the sucked water vapor to increase the pressure. Specifically, water vapor having a pressure of 6.5 mmHg is sucked from the first low-pressure space (12) and compressed to increase the pressure to 27.9 mmHg. Therefore, the pressure increase ratio in the compressor (50) is 4.3. Here, the pressure increase width in the compressor (50) is determined as follows. That is, the state of the outdoor air (outside air) is a temperature of 35 ° C. and a water vapor pressure of 22.9 mmHg, and correspondingly, the value is set to a value higher by 5 mmHg than the vapor pressure of the outdoor air.

The steam pressurized by the compressor (50) is supplied to the second low-pressure space (32) of the steam discharging section (30). That is, water vapor having a pressure of 27.9 mmHg is sent into the second low pressure space (32). Outdoor air is sent into the second air space (33) of the water vapor discharge section (30). The moisture permeable membrane (31)
The second low-pressure space (32) is in contact with steam having a pressure of 27.9 mmHg, and the second air space (33) is in contact with outdoor air having a steam pressure of 22.9 mmHg. Therefore, there is a difference in water vapor pressure of 5 mmHg on both sides of the moisture permeable membrane (31). Due to this water vapor pressure difference, the water vapor in the second low pressure space (32) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (31) and is released to the outdoor air in the second air space (33).
The outdoor air in the second air space (33) that has received the steam is then discharged from the second air space (33).

In the use side circuit (20), the circulation pump (23)
Is operated to circulate the heat transfer water. The heat radiation heat exchanger (21)
The heat exchange between the circulating heat transfer water and the cooled water stored in the first low-pressure space (12) is performed. In the heat radiation heat exchanger (21), the heat transfer water is cooled, and the cold generated in the evaporator (10) is extracted. The cooled heat transfer water is sent from the heat radiation heat exchanger (21) to the indoor heat exchanger (22). Indoor heat exchanger (22)
Causes heat exchange between the low-temperature heat transfer water and room air. In the indoor heat exchanger (22), the indoor air is cooled by the heat transfer water. Then, the cooled room air is supplied into the room to perform cooling. The heat transfer water that has absorbed heat from the indoor air is sent from the indoor heat exchanger (22) to the heat radiation heat exchanger (21), cooled again, and repeats this circulation.

-Effects of First Embodiment- According to the first embodiment, in the water vapor discharge section (30),
Water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) can be directly discharged to outdoor air in the second air space (33). That is, it is possible to process the water vapor sent to the second low-pressure space (32) by the compressor (50) without condensing the water vapor. For this reason, it is possible to reduce the pressure increase width of the steam in the compressor (50) and set the pressure increase ratio in the compressor (50) small. As a result, the power required to drive the compressor (50) can be reduced, and the COP (coefficient of performance) can be improved.

Here, in the case where the steam in the evaporating section (10) is condensed and treated, it is necessary to make the saturated temperature of the steam after the pressure increase higher than the temperature of the cooling medium. For example,
When the cooling water cooled by the cooling tower is used as the cooling medium, even when the steam after the pressure is brought into direct contact with the cooling water,
The pressure of 6.5 mmHg steam must be raised to a saturated steam pressure of 35.7 mmHg corresponding to a cooling water temperature of 32 ° C. In this case, the step-up ratio in the step-up means is 5.5.

On the other hand, in the compressor (50) of the present embodiment, the steam may be compressed to a pressure higher than the steam pressure of the outdoor air by a predetermined value (5 mmHg in the present embodiment).
That is, as described above, the compressor (50) has a pressure of 6.5 mm.
Hg steam may be compressed to a pressure of 27.9 mmHg, and the pressure increase ratio can be set to 4.3. For this reason, according to the present embodiment, while maintaining the pressure in the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporating section (10), the pressure increase ratio in the compressor (50) is lower than in the conventional case of condensing steam. Can be smaller. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to improve the COP.

-Modification of First Embodiment- In the first embodiment, the use-side circuit (20) may be omitted and configured as follows.

As shown in FIG. 3, in this modification, the evaporator (10) is installed in the indoor space (200). Then, the evaporator (10) is brought into contact with the room air to form a first low-pressure space (12).
The indoor air is cooled by cold water stored inside. In this case, it is desirable to provide fins or the like in the evaporating section (10) so as to increase a heat transfer area with room air.

[0062]

[Embodiment 2] The second embodiment of the present invention is the same as the first embodiment, except that the evaporating section (10) and the utilization side circuit (20)
Is changed. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 4, the evaporating section (10) is formed in a closed container shape. The inside of the evaporating section (10) has a first low-pressure space (12) and a water-side space (14) by a moisture permeable membrane (11).
And is divided into. The first low-pressure space (12) is in a predetermined reduced pressure state as in the first embodiment. Further, the moisture permeable film (11) of the evaporating section (10) is configured to transmit water vapor in the same manner as the moisture permeable film (31) of the water vapor discharging section (30). On the other hand, the water-side space (14) is filled with heat transfer water, and this heat transfer water contacts the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11). This water side space (14) is in an atmospheric pressure state.

In the evaporating section (10), water vapor evaporated from the heat transfer water in the water side space (14) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low pressure space (12). That is, the evaporator (10)
Is configured to evaporate a part of the heat transfer water in the water-side space (14) and take latent heat of evaporation from the remaining heat transfer water to cool.

As in the first embodiment, the utilization side circuit (20) is provided with a circulation pump (23) and an indoor heat exchanger (22). Also, the point that the indoor heat exchanger (22) is installed in the indoor fan coil unit is the same as in the first embodiment. The circulation pump (23) is connected on the suction side to the water-side space (14) of the evaporator (10), and is connected on the discharge side to the inlet end of the indoor heat exchanger (22). The outlet end of the indoor heat exchanger (22)
It is connected to the water-side space (14) of the evaporator (10). The use side circuit (20) is connected to the water side space (1) of the evaporator (10).
It is configured to circulate the heat transfer water between 4) and the indoor heat exchanger (22). A water supply pipe (24) is connected to an upstream side of the water side space (14) in the use side circuit (20). The water supply pipe (24) supplies water to the water-side space (14) to replenish the evaporation in the water-side space (14).

-Operation- An operation during the cooling operation will be described. In addition, compressor (50)
The operation of the water vapor discharging section (30) is the same as that of the first embodiment. The temperature and pressure used in the following description are
As in the description of the first embodiment, the values in the standard operation state are shown.

The pressure in the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporating section (10) is set to 6.5 mmHg. The moisture permeable membrane (11) of the evaporator (10) is in contact with the heat transfer water on the surface on the water side space (14) side. In the water side space, a part of the heat transfer water evaporates and the remaining heat transfer water is cooled. The evaporated water vapor passes through the moisture permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). First
The water vapor in the low-pressure space (12) is sucked and compressed by the compressor (50), and the pressure is increased to 27.9 mmHg before being sent to the water vapor discharge part (30). In the water vapor discharge section (30), the water vapor in the second low pressure space (32) is converted into the second air space (33).
To the outside air.

According to the second embodiment, since the first low-pressure space (12) is partitioned by the moisture permeable membrane (11) in the evaporating section (10), the water at atmospheric pressure is formed. Cooling of the heat transfer water can be performed in the side space (14). That is, the heat transfer water cooled in the evaporating section (10) can be circulated as it is in the use side circuit (20). Therefore, the heat radiation heat exchanger (2
Cold heat can be extracted from the evaporator (10) without using 1), and the generated cold heat can be reliably used.

[0069]

Third Embodiment A third embodiment of the present invention is different from the first embodiment in that the configuration of the evaporating section (10) is changed. In the third embodiment, the use-side circuit is omitted. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 5, the evaporator (10) is installed in the indoor space (200). This evaporator (10)
It is formed in a container shape, and a first low-pressure space (12) is defined therein by a moisture-permeable film (11). The first low-pressure space (12) is configured as a closed space, and is in a predetermined reduced pressure state as in the first embodiment. The evaporator (10)
The moisture permeable membrane (11) of the water vapor release part (30) is the moisture permeable membrane (31)
It is configured such that water vapor is transmitted therethrough.

In the evaporating section (10), a first air space (13) is formed on the side opposite to the first low-pressure space (12) with the moisture permeable membrane (11) interposed therebetween. Room air, which is the atmosphere, is introduced into the first air space (13), and the room air comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11). In addition, the water supply pipe (24)
Is connected to the first air space (1) by the water supply pipe (24).
3) Water is supplied. At this time, the water supply pipe (24) sprays water on the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11). That is, the moisture permeable membrane (11)
, Both the room air and the supplied water come into contact with the surface on the side of the first air space (13). And the evaporator (10)
Is configured to generate cold heat by evaporating the water supplied to the first air space (13), cool the room air by the generated cold heat, and send out the room air to the room space (200).

In this embodiment, in the evaporating section (10), both the room air and the water introduced into the first air space (13) are brought into contact with the moisture permeable membrane (11). Instead to,
Only the supplied water may be brought into contact with the moisture permeable membrane (11). In this case, the water covering the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11) is cooled by self-evaporation, and the room air is cooled by contacting the cooled water.

-Operation- An operation during the cooling operation will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 shows a standard operation state during the cooling operation, and the temperature and pressure used in the following description show values in the standard operation state. Therefore, the temperatures and pressures shown below are examples, and the values vary depending on the operating conditions.

In the first air space (13) of the evaporator (10),
Indoor air is fed in, and water is supplied from a water supply pipe (24). Therefore, the moisture permeable membrane (11) of the evaporator (10) is
It comes into contact with the supplied room air and water on the surface on the first air space (13) side. Here, the states of the room air and water supplied to the first air space (13) correspond to the states of points C and A in FIG. 6, respectively. That is, the temperature and absolute humidity of the room air are indicated by point C, and the temperature of the water from the water supply pipe (24) is indicated by point A. On the other hand, the pressure in the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporating section (10) is set to 7.7 mmHg. In other words, the indoor air condition is a temperature of 26 ° C. and a steam pressure of 12.
It is 7 mmHg, and correspondingly, it is set to a value lower by 5 mmHg than the water vapor pressure of the indoor air (see FIG. 7).

In this state, in the first air space (13) of the evaporating section (10), the temperature of the supplied water decreases due to self-evaporation, and the temperature of the room air also decreases. That is, the first
In the air space (13), the water vapor in the indoor air is
At the same time as passing through 1) and moving to the first low-pressure space (12), the supplied water evaporates as the humidity of the indoor air decreases. The evaporated water vapor passes through the moisture permeable membrane (11) due to the water vapor pressure difference between the first air space (13) and the first low pressure space (12), and moves to the first low pressure space (12). Water is also evaporated due to the difference between the saturated steam pressure of the supplied water and the steam pressure of the first low-pressure space (12), and the evaporated steam moves to the first low-pressure space (12). The supplied water is deprived of latent heat of evaporation by self-evaporation, and its temperature decreases, while the temperature of the indoor air also decreases as the temperature of the water decreases. And FIG.
As shown in (2), the temperature of the supplied water decreases from the temperature indicated by the point A, and finally reaches the temperature indicated by the point B. On the other hand, the temperature and the humidity of the room air respectively decrease from the state at the point C, and finally reach the state at the point E. Note that the broken line from point C to point E in FIG. 6 does not indicate the path of the state change of the indoor air. That is, the indoor air does not change its state along the broken line from point C to point E.

The water vapor in the first low pressure space (12) is sucked into the compressor (50). The compressor (50) compresses the sucked water vapor to increase the pressure. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, water vapor having a pressure of 7.7 mmHg is sucked from the first low-pressure space (12) and compressed to increase the pressure to 27.9 mmHg.
Therefore, the pressure increase ratio in the compressor (50) is 3.6.
Here, the pressure increase width in the compressor (50) is determined as follows. That is, the state of the outdoor air (outside air) is the temperature 35
° C and the water vapor pressure is 22.9 mmHg, which is set to a value higher by 5 mmHg than the vapor pressure of the outdoor air.

The steam pressurized by the compressor (50) is sent to the steam discharging section (30). That is, the pressure is 27.9.
mmHg is supplied to the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30), and the water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (31) and is discharged to outdoor air. This water vapor discharge part (30)
Is similar to that of the first embodiment.

-Effect of Third Embodiment- In the third embodiment, the first air space (13) of the evaporator (10) is used.
, The water and the indoor air are brought into contact with the moisture permeable membrane (11) to cool the indoor air. For this reason, while maintaining the cooling capacity, the pressure of the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporating section (10) is
It is possible to set 7.7 mmHg, which is higher than 6.5 mmHg in the first and second embodiments. As a result, the pressure increase ratio in the compressor (50) can be further reduced, and the COP can be further improved.

[0079]

Embodiment 4 Embodiment 4 of the present invention is different from Embodiment 1 in that a steam separation section (15) is provided instead of the evaporation section (10), and a humidification cooling section (25) is added. It is. In the third embodiment, the use-side circuit is omitted. Hereinafter, a configuration different from the first embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 8, the steam separating section (15) and the humidifying cooler are installed in the indoor space (200).
The water vapor separating section (15) is formed in a container shape, and a first low-pressure space (12) is defined therein by a moisture permeable membrane (11). The first low-pressure space (12) is configured as a closed space, and is in a predetermined reduced pressure state as in the first embodiment. Further, the moisture permeable film (11) of the evaporating section (10) is configured to transmit water vapor in the same manner as the moisture permeable film (31) of the water vapor discharging section (30).

In the water vapor separation section (15), the first air space (1) is located on the side opposite to the first low pressure space (12) with the moisture permeable membrane (11) interposed therebetween.
3) is formed. In this first air space (13),
Indoor air, which is the atmosphere, is introduced, and the indoor air comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11). And steam separation part (15)
Is configured to move the water vapor contained in the room air in the first air space (13) to the first low-pressure space (12), separate the water vapor from the room air and dehumidify the water.

The humidification cooling section (25) has a steam separation section (1).
The dehumidified indoor air is sent from the first air space (13) of (5). The humidification cooling section (25) has a water supply pipe (2
4) is connected. And the humidification cooling part (25)
Water from the water supply pipe (24) is supplied to the dried indoor air from the water vapor separation unit (15), and the indoor air is cooled by humidification. Humidifying and cooling unit (25)
The room air cooled in is supplied to the indoor space (200).

-Operation- An operation during the cooling operation will be described with reference to FIG. The operations of the compressor (50) and the water vapor discharging section (30) are the same as those in the third embodiment. Further, the temperature and the pressure used in the following description are the same as in the third embodiment.
The values in a standard operation state are shown.

In the first air space (13) of the evaporator (10),
The room air in the state of the point C is sent. This room air is at a temperature of 26 ° C. and a water vapor pressure of 12.7 mmHg. In the first air space (13), the supplied room air comes into contact with the moisture permeable membrane (11). On the other hand, the pressure in the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporating section (10) is set to 7.7 mmHg. The water vapor contained in the indoor air is in the first air space (13).
The water vapor permeates through the moisture permeable membrane (11) by the water vapor pressure difference (5 mmHg) between the first low pressure space (12) and moves to the first low pressure space (12). Then, the absolute humidity of the room air decreases, and the state at point C changes to the state at point D.

The room air which has been dehumidified to the state of the point D is sent from the first air space (13) of the evaporating section (10) to the humidifying cooling section (25). Water is sent to the humidification cooling section (25) through a water supply pipe (24). Water from the water supply pipe (24) is supplied to the room air in the state of the point D. And in the humidification cooling part (25), the indoor air is humidified and cooled,
The state changes from point D to point E. The air in the state at the point E is supplied to the indoor space (200).

[0086]

Fifth Embodiment A fifth embodiment of the present invention relates to an air conditioner including a heat pump according to the present invention,
The operation is switched between the cooling operation and the heating operation.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the air conditioner includes an outdoor container member (80), a compressor (50), a four-way switching valve (60), an indoor container member (70), and a condenser (40). ) And a use side circuit (45).

The four-way switching valve (60) has a discharge pipe (52),
Inlet piping (53), outdoor piping (54) and indoor piping (5
5) is connected. The four-way switching valve (60) is in a state where the discharge pipe (52) communicates with the outdoor pipe (54) and the suction pipe (53) communicates with the indoor pipe (55) (see FIG. 9).
And a state in which the discharge pipe (52) communicates with the indoor pipe (55) and the suction pipe (53) communicates with the outdoor pipe (54) (FIG. 1).
0).

The discharge pipe (52) is connected to the discharge side of the compressor (50). The suction pipe (53) is connected to a suction side of the compressor (50). The outdoor pipe (54) is connected to the outdoor container member (80). Indoor side piping (55)
The first branch pipe (56) is branched into a second branch pipe (57), the first branch pipe (56) is connected to the indoor container member (70), and the second branch pipe (57) is connected to the condensing section (40). Each is connected. The first branch pipe (56) is provided with a first steam valve (58), and the second branch pipe (57) is provided with a second steam valve (59).

The outdoor container member (80) is installed outside the room, and the indoor container member (70) is installed in the indoor space (200). The outdoor container member (80) and the indoor container member (70)
Has a similar configuration. Both container members (70,80)
Is formed in the shape of a container, inside of which a moisture permeable membrane (71, 81)
A low-pressure space (72,82) is defined by this. This low pressure space (72, 82) is configured as a closed space. The outdoor piping (54) is connected to the low pressure space (82) of the outdoor container member (80), and the low pressure space (7) of the indoor container member (70) is connected.
The first branch pipe (56) of the indoor pipe (55) is connected to 2). The moisture permeable membrane (71, 81) is made of a water vapor permeable polymer film or a water vapor permeable inorganic material film, and is configured to transmit water vapor.

The container members (70, 80) have a moisture-permeable membrane (71, 8).
The normal pressure space (7) is opposite to the low pressure space (72,82)
3,83) are formed. The atmosphere is introduced into the normal pressure space (73, 83) and comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (71, 81). Water supply valves (76,86) are provided for both container members (70,80).
The water supply pipes (75, 85) are connected via. This water supply pipe (75,85) supplies water to the normal pressure space (73,83),
At that time, water is sprayed on the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (71, 81).

The condensing part (40) is formed in a closed container shape. The inside of the condenser (40) is partitioned into a third low-pressure space (42) and a water-side space (43) by a moisture permeable membrane (41). A second branch pipe (57) of the indoor side pipe (55) is connected to the third low-pressure space (42). In addition, the condensation section (4
The moisture permeable membrane (41) of (0) is configured to allow water vapor to permeate similarly to that of the container member. On the other hand, the water side space (4
Heat medium water is filled in 3), and the heat medium water is filled with the moisture permeable membrane (4).
Contact the surface of 1). This water side space (43) is in an atmospheric pressure state. The condensing section (40) is configured to move the water vapor in the third low-pressure space (42) to the water-side space (43) to condense the water, and heat the heat transfer water by the heat of condensation of the water vapor.

In the water side space (43) of the condensing section (40),
The user side circuit (45) is connected. User side circuit (45)
Is provided with an indoor heat exchanger (46) and a circulation pump (47). The indoor heat exchanger (46) has an inlet end connected to the water-side space (43) and an outlet end connected to the suction side of the circulation pump (47). The discharge side of the circulation pump (47) is connected to the water-side space (43). In the utilization side circuit (45), when the circulation pump (47) is operated, the heat transfer water circulates between the water side space (43) of the condenser (40) and the indoor heat exchanger (46). On the other hand, the indoor heat exchanger (46) is housed in a fan coil unit (not shown), and the indoor space (200)
It is installed in. The indoor heat exchanger (46) exchanges heat between the heat transfer water and the indoor air.

In the use side circuit (45), a drain pipe (48)
Is connected. This drain pipe (48)
Is connected via a drain valve (49) between the water side space (43) and the indoor heat exchanger (46). This drainage pipe (48)
Discharges an amount of water corresponding to the condensed amount in the condensing section (40), and the amount of heat transfer water in the use side circuit (45) is kept constant.

-Cooling Operation Operation- An operation during the cooling operation will be described with reference to FIG.

In the cooling operation, the first steam valve (58) is opened, and the second steam valve (59) is closed. Four-way switching valve (6
0) is switched to a state in which the discharge pipe (52) communicates with the outdoor pipe (54) and the suction pipe (53) communicates with the indoor pipe (55). In the indoor water supply pipe (75), the water supply valve (76) is adjusted to a predetermined opening, and a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the indoor container member (70). On the other hand, the water supply valve (8
6) is closed and no water is supplied to the outdoor container member (80). Further, the circulation pump (47) of the use side circuit (45) is not operated, and the drain valve (49) is closed.

In this state, the indoor container member (70) operates as the evaporating section (10), and the outdoor container member (80) operates as the water vapor discharging section (30). That is, the indoor container member (70)
Then, the normal pressure space (73) becomes the first air space (13) of the evaporator (10), and the low pressure space (72) becomes the first low pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10). In the outdoor container member (80),
The normal pressure space (83) serves as a second air space (33) of the water vapor discharge section (30), and the low pressure space (82) serves as a second low pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30). In this embodiment, the same operation as the cooling operation in the third embodiment is performed.

[0098] Specifically, in the indoor container member (70), the water supplied to the normal pressure space (73) evaporates and moves to the low pressure space (72), and the indoor air is cooled. Low pressure space (7
2) The first branch pipe (56) of the indoor pipe (55)
Is sucked into the compressor (50) through the suction pipe (53). The compressor (50) compresses the sucked steam. The pressurized steam flows from the discharge pipe (52) to the outdoor pipe (54).
Through the low pressure space (82) of the outdoor container member (80). The water vapor in the low-pressure space (82) passes through the moisture-permeable membrane (81), moves to the normal-pressure space (83), and is released to outdoor air.

—Heating Operation— The operation during the heating operation will be described with reference to FIG.

During the heating operation, both the first steam valve (58) and the second steam valve (59) are adjusted to a predetermined opening. The four-way switching valve (60) switches to a state in which the discharge pipe (52) communicates with the indoor pipe (55) and the suction pipe (53) communicates with the outdoor pipe (54). In the indoor water pipe (75), the water supply valve (7
6) is closed, and no water is supplied to the indoor container member (70). On the other hand, in the outdoor water supply pipe (85), the water supply valve (86) is adjusted to a predetermined opening, and a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the outdoor container member (80). In addition, the circulation pump (4
7) is operated to circulate the heat transfer water, and the drain valve (4
9) is adjusted to a predetermined opening.

In this state, the indoor container member (70) operates as the water vapor discharging section (30), and the outdoor container member (80) operates as the evaporating section (10). That is, the indoor container member (70)
In this case, the normal pressure space (73) becomes the second air space (33) of the water vapor discharge part (30), and the low pressure space (72) becomes the water vapor discharge part (3).
The second low pressure space (32) of (0) is obtained. In the outdoor container member (80), the normal pressure space (83) becomes the first air space (13) of the evaporator (10), and the low pressure space (82) becomes the first low pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10). ).

Outdoor air is fed into the normal pressure space (83) of the outdoor container member (80), and the water vapor in the outdoor air passes through the moisture permeable membrane (81) and moves to the low pressure space (82). In the normal pressure space (83) of the outdoor container member (80), an outdoor water supply pipe (8
Water is supplied from 5), and water vapor evaporated from the supplied water also passes through the moisture permeable membrane (81) and moves to the low-pressure space (82). The water vapor in the low pressure space (82) is supplied to the outdoor piping (54).
Is sucked into the compressor (50) through the suction pipe (53). The compressor (50) compresses the inhaled water vapor, and the compressed and pressurized water vapor is supplied from the discharge pipe (52) to the indoor pipe (5).
Sent to 5). The water vapor sent into the indoor side pipe (55) is divided into a first branch pipe (56) and a second branch pipe (57).

The steam flowing into the first branch pipe (56) is introduced into the low-pressure space (72) of the indoor container member (70). On the other hand, room air is sent into the normal pressure space (73) of the indoor container member (70). The water vapor in the low-pressure space (72) passes through the moisture-permeable membrane (71) and moves to the normal-pressure space (73), and the room air in the normal-pressure space (73) is humidified. The humidified room air is then supplied indoors.

The steam flowing into the second branch pipe (57) is introduced into the third low-pressure space (42) of the condensing section (40). The third
The water vapor in the low pressure space (42) permeates through the moisture permeable membrane (41) and moves to the water side space (43). The moved steam comes into contact with the heat transfer water in the water side space (43) and condenses, and the heat of condensation heats the heat transfer water. The heated heat transfer water is sent to the indoor heat exchanger (46). In the indoor heat exchanger (46), the heat transfer water and the indoor air exchange heat, and the indoor air is heated. The heat medium water that has radiated heat is again sent to the water-side space (43) of the condensing section (40) and heated, and this circulation is repeated. In addition, an amount of water corresponding to the amount condensed in the condenser (40) is discharged from the drain pipe (48), and the amount of the heat transfer water in the use side circuit (45) is kept constant.

According to the fifth embodiment, since the third low-pressure space (42) is defined by the moisture permeable membrane (41) in the condensing section (40), the water at atmospheric pressure is formed. The heating medium water can be heated in the side space (43). That is, at the time of the heating operation, the heat medium water heated in the condensing section (40) can be circulated in the use side circuit (45) as it is. Therefore, the heat of condensation of the steam can be reliably used for heating the heat transfer water as compared with a case where the heat transfer water flowing inside the pipe is heated by condensation of the steam outside the pipe.

During the heating operation, the indoor container member (7
In 0), humidification of room air can be performed. For this reason, not only the heating of the indoor air but also the humidification can be performed, and the comfort can be improved.

[0107]

Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment of the present invention is an air conditioner that performs heating by using the heat generated by the heat pump according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the air conditioner, an evaporator (10), a compressor (50) as a pressure increasing means, and a steam discharger (30) are connected by a steam pipe (51). It is configured.

The evaporating section (10) is formed in a closed container shape. The interior of the evaporating section (10) is partitioned by a moisture permeable membrane (11) into a first low-pressure space (12) and a water-side space (14). The first low-pressure space (12) is in a predetermined reduced pressure state (for example, about 6.5 mmHg). The moisture permeable film (11) of the evaporator (10) is made of a water vapor permeable polymer film or a water vapor permeable inorganic material film, and is configured to transmit water vapor. On the other hand, the water-side space (14) is filled with heat source water, and this heat source water comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11).
This water side space (14) is in an atmospheric pressure state. The evaporator (10) is configured such that water vapor evaporated from the heat source water in the water-side space (14) passes through the moisture-permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). .

A water supply pipe (24) is connected to the evaporator (10). The water supply pipe (24) is configured to replenish the first low-pressure space (12) with an amount of water corresponding to the amount of evaporation.

In the compressor (50), the suction side has an evaporator (1).
0) is connected to the first low-pressure space (12), and the discharge side is connected to the water vapor discharge section (30). This compressor (50)
The water vapor in the first low-pressure space (12) is suctioned and pressurized, and the pressurized water vapor is sent to the water vapor discharge section (30).

The water vapor discharging section (30) is provided in the indoor space (20).
0). The water vapor discharge section (30) is formed in a closed container shape, and a second low-pressure space (32) is defined therein by a moisture permeable film (31). The moisture permeable film (31) is configured to transmit water vapor, similarly to the moisture permeable film (11) of the evaporator (10). The second low-pressure space (32) is configured as a closed space, and is connected to the discharge side of the compressor (50). That is, the second low-pressure space (32)
, Steam pressurized by the compressor (50) is introduced.
In the water vapor discharge section (30), a normal-pressure vapor space (34) is formed on the opposite side of the moisture-permeable membrane (31) from the second low-pressure space (32). The normal-pressure steam space (34) is in an atmospheric pressure state. Further, water vapor is sent from the second low pressure space (32) into the normal pressure vapor space (34) through the moisture permeable membrane (31).

Atmospheric pressure vapor space (34) of the water vapor discharge section (30)
Is formed with an air heating path (35), which is a heating means (35). The air heating path (35) is configured such that room air flows through the inside and heat exchange between the inside room air and the outside water vapor is performed. Then, in the air heating path (35), the room air flowing through the inside of the air heating path (35) is heated by the heat of condensation of water vapor condensed outside. Further, a drain pipe (48) is connected to the water vapor discharge section (30). The drain pipe (48) discharges condensed water generated by heat exchange with the room air in the air heating path (35) from the normal-pressure steam space (34).

-Operation-The operation during the heating operation will be described.

In the water side space (14) of the evaporating section (10), a part of the heat source water evaporates by removing latent heat of evaporation from the remaining heat source water. The evaporated water vapor passes through the moisture permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). On the other hand, from the water pipe (24)
An amount of water corresponding to the amount of evaporation is applied to the water-side space (1
4) will be replenished.

The water vapor in the first low-pressure space (12) is sucked into the compressor (50). The compressor (50) compresses the suctioned steam to increase the pressure, and sends the increased pressure steam to the second low-pressure space (32) of the steam discharge section (30). The water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) passes through the moisture-permeable membrane (31) and moves to the atmospheric-pressure normal-pressure vapor space (34).

On the other hand, room air is fed into the air heating path (35). The room air exchanges heat with the steam in the normal-pressure steam space (34) while flowing through the air heating path (35).
Then, the water vapor is condensed outside the air heating path (35), and the indoor air in the air heating path (35) is heated by the heat of condensation of the water vapor. The heated room air then
It is supplied to the indoor space (200).

-Modification 1 of Embodiment 6-Modification 1 of this embodiment is different from Embodiment 1 in that the condensed water generated in the normal-pressure steam space (34) of the water vapor discharging section (30) is discharged. The water is returned to the water-side space (14) of the evaporator (10).

As shown in FIG. 12, in the first modification, a return pipe (36) is provided. The return pipe (36) is provided with a water pump (37). The return pipe (36) has an inlet end connected to the water vapor discharge section (30) to take in condensed water in the normal-pressure steam space (34) and an outlet end connected to the evaporator section (10). The condensed water is sent to the water side space (14).

According to the present modification, water can be circulated between the evaporating section (10) and the water vapor discharging section (30), and the operation can be performed without replenishing water from the outside. .

-Modification 2 of Embodiment 6 Modification 2 of the present embodiment includes an evaporator (10) and a water supply pipe (2).
This changes the configuration of 4).

As shown in FIG. 13, the evaporating section (10)
Is formed in a closed container shape, and its internal space is configured as a first low-pressure space (12). The first low pressure space (12) is in a predetermined reduced pressure state. That is, the first low-pressure space (1
The pressure in 2) is set to a predetermined value lower than the atmospheric pressure. Heat source water is stored at the bottom of the first low-pressure space (12). The evaporating section (10) is provided in the first low-pressure space (12).
It is configured such that a part of the heat source water stored in the evaporator removes latent heat of evaporation from the remaining heat source water and evaporates. In addition, the water supply pipe (24) supplies the first low-pressure space (1
2) It is configured to replenish. This water pipe (2
4) is configured to spray water into the first low-pressure space (12).

[0123]

Seventh Embodiment A seventh embodiment of the present invention is an air conditioner which performs heating and humidification while utilizing the heat generated by the heat pump according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 14, the air conditioner includes an evaporator (10), a compressor (50) serving as a booster, a water vapor discharger (30), and a condenser (40). I have. The evaporator (10) is connected to a suction side of the compressor (50) via a suction pipe (53). A discharge pipe (52) is connected to a discharge side of the compressor (50). The discharge pipe (52) is branched at the other end into a first branch pipe (56) and a second branch pipe (57),
The first branch pipe (56) is connected to the water vapor discharge section (30), and the second branch pipe (57) is connected to the condensation section (40). The first branch pipe (56) is provided with a first steam valve (58), and the second branch pipe (57) is provided with a second steam valve (59).

The evaporating section (10) is formed in a closed container shape. The interior of the evaporating section (10) is partitioned by a moisture permeable membrane (11) into a first low-pressure space (12) and a water-side space (14). The first low-pressure space (12) is in a predetermined reduced pressure state (for example, about 6.5 mmHg). This first low-pressure space (1
The suction pipe (53) is open at 2).

The moisture permeable film (11) of the evaporator (10) is made of a water vapor permeable polymer film or a water vapor permeable inorganic material film, and is configured to transmit water vapor. On the other hand, the water-side space (14) is filled with heat source water, and this heat source water comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11). This water side space (14) is in an atmospheric pressure state. And the said evaporating part (10)
The water vapor evaporated from the heat source water in the water side space (14) is configured to pass through the moisture permeable membrane (11) and move to the first low pressure space (12).

A water supply pipe (24) is connected to the evaporator (10). The water supply pipe (24) is configured to replenish the first low-pressure space (12) with an amount of water corresponding to the amount of evaporation.

The compressor (50) is connected to the first section of the evaporating section (10).
Water vapor is sucked from the low-pressure space (12), and the sucked water vapor is compressed to increase the pressure. The compressor (50) sends the pressurized steam to the discharge pipe (52).

The water vapor discharging section (30) is provided in the indoor space (20).
0). The water vapor discharging portion (30) is formed in a container shape, and a second low-pressure space (32) is defined therein by a moisture permeable film (31). A first branch pipe (56) of the discharge pipe (52) is open in the second low-pressure space (32). Therefore, a part of the water vapor pressurized by the compressor (50) is introduced into the second low-pressure space (32). Also,
In the water vapor discharging section (30), a second air space (33) is formed on the side opposite to the second low pressure space (32) with the moisture permeable membrane (31) interposed therebetween. Room air, which is the atmosphere, is introduced into the second air space (33), and the room air comes into contact with the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (31). The moisture permeable membrane (31) is configured to allow water vapor to pass therethrough, similar to that of the evaporator (10). And the water vapor | steam discharge | release part (30) is comprised so that it may permeate | transmit a moisture-permeable membrane (31) and discharge | release a water vapor | steam from a 2nd low pressure space (32) to room air.

The condensing section (40) is formed in a closed container shape. The inside of the condenser (40) is partitioned into a third low-pressure space (42) and a water-side space (43) by a moisture permeable membrane (41). A second branch pipe (57) of the discharge pipe (52) is open in the third low-pressure space (42). In addition, condensation part (40)
The moisture permeable membrane (41) is configured to transmit water vapor, similarly to that of the evaporator (10). On the other hand, the water-side space (43) is filled with heat transfer water, and this heat transfer water contacts the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (41). This water side space (43) is in an atmospheric pressure state. The condensing section (40) is configured to move the water vapor in the third low-pressure space (42) to the water-side space (43) to condense the water, and heat the heat transfer water by the heat of condensation of the water vapor.

In the water side space (43) of the condensing section (40),
The user side circuit (45) is connected. This use side circuit (45) is configured in the same manner as that of the fifth embodiment. In other words, the indoor heat exchanger (4
6) and a circulation pump (47) are provided, and the water side space (43)
The heat transfer water is circulated between the heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger (46). Further, the indoor heat exchanger (46) is housed in the fan coil unit and installed in the indoor space (200), similarly to the fifth embodiment. Further, the point that the drain pipe (48) is connected to the use side circuit (45) is also the same as in the fifth embodiment.

-Operation- An operation during the heating operation will be described.

In the water side space (14) of the evaporating section (10), part of the heat source water evaporates by removing latent heat of evaporation from the remaining heat source water. The evaporated water vapor passes through the moisture permeable membrane (11) and moves to the first low-pressure space (12). On the other hand, from the water pipe (24)
An amount of water corresponding to the amount of evaporation is applied to the water-side space (1
4) will be replenished.

The water vapor in the first low-pressure space (12) is sucked into the compressor (50) through the suction pipe (53). The compressor (50) compresses the suctioned water vapor to increase the pressure, and sends the pressurized water vapor to the discharge pipe (52). Discharge piping (52)
Is sent to the first branch pipe (56) and the second branch pipe (57).

The steam flowing into the first branch pipe (56) is introduced into the second low-pressure space (32) of the steam discharge section (30).
On the other hand, in the second air space (33) of the water vapor discharge section (30),
Indoor air is sent in. The water vapor in the second low-pressure space (32) permeates through the moisture permeable membrane (31) and moves to the second air space (33), and the room air in the second air space (33) is humidified.
The humidified room air is then supplied indoors.

The steam flowing into the second branch pipe (57) is introduced into the third low-pressure space (42) of the condensing section (40). The third
The water vapor in the low pressure space (42) permeates through the moisture permeable membrane (41) and moves to the water side space (43). The moved steam comes into contact with the heat transfer water in the water side space (43) and condenses, and the heat of condensation heats the heat transfer water. The heated heat transfer water is sent to the indoor heat exchanger (46). In the indoor heat exchanger (46), the heat transfer water and the indoor air exchange heat, and the indoor air is heated. The heat medium water that has radiated heat is again sent to the water-side space (43) of the condensing section (40) and heated, and this circulation is repeated. In addition, an amount of water corresponding to the amount condensed in the condenser (40) is discharged from the drain pipe (48), and the amount of the heat transfer water in the use side circuit (45) is kept constant.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to humidify the indoor air in the water vapor discharge section (30).
For this reason, not only the heating of the indoor air but also the humidification can be performed, and the comfort can be improved.

[0138]

Other Embodiments of the Invention -First Modification- In a first modification, a steam extraction section (30) in each of the above embodiments is provided with a bleed pipe (65). Hereinafter, the configuration of the bleed pipe (65) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 illustrates a case where the bleed pipe (65) according to the present modification is applied to the third embodiment (see FIG. 5).

[0139] The bleed pipe (65) is connected to a water vapor discharge section (30) via a bleed valve (66). The bleed pipe (65) is open at one end to the second low-pressure space (32), and is open to the outside at the other end. At the other end of the bleed tube (65),
An extraction pump (67) is provided. The bleed pipe (65) is opened at a predetermined position in the second low-pressure space (32), and the bleed pump (67) exhausts gas other than water vapor such as air accumulated in the second low-pressure space (32) by the bleed pump (67). Configure means.

-Second Modification-The second modification is a modification of the compressor (50) in each of the above embodiments.
Instead, an absorption side circuit (90) is provided. That is, the boosting means is constituted by the absorption side circuit (90). Hereinafter, the configuration of the absorption side circuit (90) will be described with reference to FIG.
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 illustrates a case where the absorption-side circuit (90) according to the present modification is applied to the third embodiment (see FIG. 5).

The absorption circuit (90) includes an absorption section (91), a regeneration section (95), and a solution pump (99), and circulates the absorption solution between the absorption section (91) and the regeneration section (95). It is configured as follows. The absorption solution is composed of, for example, an aqueous solution of lithium bromide or an aqueous solution of lithium chloride, and constitutes an absorption medium.
The absorption side circuit (90) is provided with a solution heat exchanger (100). The solution heat exchanger (100) exchanges heat between the absorbing solution sent from the absorbing section (91) to the regenerating section (95) and the absorbing solution sent from the regenerating section (95) to the absorbing section (91). .

The absorbing section (91) is formed in a closed container shape. The interior of the absorbing section (91) is partitioned by a moisture permeable membrane (92) into a water vapor space (93) and a solution space (94). The moisture permeable membrane (92) is configured to transmit water vapor. The water vapor space (93) includes an evaporator (10)
The first low-pressure space (12) is connected to the first low-pressure space (12) by a steam pipe (51), and steam in the first low-pressure space (12) is introduced. The solution space (94) is filled with an absorbing solution. Solution space (94)
The surface of the moisture permeable membrane (92) facing the surface comes into contact with the absorbing solution. The absorbing section (91) is configured to move the water vapor in the water vapor space (93) to the solution space (94) and absorb the water vapor in the solution space (94).

A cooling heat exchanger (101) is provided in the solution space (94) of the absorption section (91). Cooling water cooled by a cooling tower or the like is supplied to the cooling heat exchanger (101). The cooling heat exchanger (101) is configured to exchange heat between the supplied cooling water and the absorbing solution in the solution space (94) to cool the absorbing solution.

The regeneration section (95) is formed in a closed container shape. The inside of the regeneration section (95) is partitioned into a water vapor space (97) and a solution space (98) by a moisture permeable membrane (96). The moisture permeable membrane (96) is configured to transmit water vapor. The solution space (98) is filled with an absorbing solution. The surface of the moisture permeable membrane (96) facing the solution space (98) is in contact with the absorbing solution. On the other hand, the steam space (97) is connected to the second low-pressure space (32) of the steam discharge section (30) by a steam pipe (51). This playback unit (95)
Is configured to heat the absorbing solution in the solution space (98) and regenerate the absorbing solution. The playback unit (95)
Moves the water vapor evaporated from the absorbing solution in the solution space (98) to the water vapor space (97), and sends the water vapor in the water vapor space (97) to the second low-pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge part (30).

The absorption side circuit (90) is connected to the absorption section (9
1) Solution space (94) and regeneration space (95) solution space (98)
Then, the absorbing solution is circulated between the first and second low pressure spaces (12) of the evaporating section (10), and the pressure of the water vapor is increased and sent to the second low pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharging section (30).

Specifically, the steam in the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10) is introduced into the steam space (93) of the absorber (91). The water vapor sent into the water vapor space of the absorption section (91) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (92) and is absorbed by the absorbing solution in the solution space (94). The absorption solution whose concentration has been reduced by absorbing water vapor is sent to the solution space (98) of the regeneration section (95) by the solution pump (99). In the meantime, the absorption solution is preheated by exchanging heat with the absorption solution regenerated in the regenerating section (95) in the solution heat exchanger (100), and then sent to the solution space (98) of the regenerating section (95). .

In the solution space of the regenerating section (95), the absorbing solution is heated. Water evaporates from the heated absorption solution,
The absorption solution is regenerated. The regenerated absorption solution having an increased concentration is returned to the solution space (94) of the absorption section (91). On the other hand, the water vapor evaporated from the absorption solution becomes a moisture permeable membrane (9
It passes through 6) and moves to the water vapor space (97). The steam in the steam space (97) is then sent to the second low-pressure space (32) of the condensing section (40). In other words, the absorption side circuit (9
0) sucks low-pressure steam from the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporating section (10), and sends steam having a higher pressure than the sucked steam to the second low-pressure space (3) of the steam discharging section (30).
Send to 2).

-Third Modification- In a third modification, the compressor (50) in each of the above-described embodiments is used.
Instead, a boiler (115) and an ejector (110) are provided. That is, the pressure increasing means is constituted by the boiler (115) as the steam generating means and the ejector (110). Hereinafter, the configuration of the booster in the present modified example will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. still,
FIG. 17 shows the booster according to the present modification in the third embodiment.
(See FIG. 5).

The boiler (115) is configured to heat water to generate steam. This boiler (11
5) supplies steam to the ejector (110). still,
The pressure of the steam generated by the boiler (115) is set higher than the pressure of the steam in the second low-pressure space (32) of the steam discharge section (30).

The ejector (110) is formed in a tubular shape as shown in FIG. The ejector (110)
An inlet (111) is formed on an end face on one end side, and a suction port (112) is formed on a side face. The ejector (1
10) has an outlet (113) opened at the other end surface. Further, the ejector (110) is formed in such a shape that its diameter decreases and then expands from one end to the other end.

The ejector (110) has an inlet (111) connected to the boiler (115), a suction port (112) connected to the first low-pressure space (12) of the evaporator (10), and a discharge port. (11
3) is connected to the second low pressure space (32) of the water vapor discharge section (30). The ejector (110) is connected to the inlet (11
The water vapor fed from 1) is jetted at a high speed, and the water vapor is sucked from the suction port (112) by this jet. Further, in the ejector (110), the steam sucked from the first low-pressure space (12) and the steam supplied from the boiler (115) merge, and the steam after the merger is discharged from the discharge port (113) to the second outlet.
It is sent to the low pressure space (32). In other words, the ejector (11
The pressure of the water vapor sent from 0) to the second low pressure space (32) is higher than the pressure of the water vapor in the first low pressure space (12). Therefore, the boiler (115) and the ejector (1
10) constitutes the boosting means.

With the above configuration, according to this modification, the air conditioner can be operated by generating steam in the boiler (115). That is, the air conditioner can be driven only by heat without using electric power.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a dry-bulb temperature and a water vapor pressure for explaining a reduction in a boosting ratio in the compressor of the air conditioner according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a modification of the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a psychrometric chart for explaining a cooling process of room air in the air conditioners according to Embodiments 3 and 4.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a dry-bulb temperature and a water vapor pressure for describing a reduction in a boosting ratio in a compressor of an air conditioner according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a state during a cooling operation in the air conditioner according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a state during a heating operation in the air conditioner according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a first modification of the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a second modification of the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to another embodiment (first modification).

FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to another embodiment (second modification).

FIG. 17 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air conditioner according to another embodiment (third modification).

FIG. 18 is a schematic configuration diagram of an ejector according to another embodiment (third modification).

[Explanation of symbols]

 (10) Evaporation section (11) Moisture permeable membrane (12) First low pressure space (13) First air space (15) Water vapor separation section (25) Humidification cooling section (30) Water vapor discharge section (31) Moisture permeable membrane ( 32) 2nd low pressure space (35) Air heating path (heating means) (40) Condensing section (41) Moisture permeable membrane (42) 3rd low pressure space (50) Compressor (pressurizing means) (65) Bleed means (90 ) Absorption side circuit (step-up means) (110) Ejector (115) Boiler (steam generation means)

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Ryuichi Sakamoto 1304 Kanaokacho, Sakai-shi, Osaka Daikin Industries Inside Kanaoka Plant of Sakai Seisakusho Co., Ltd. (72) Yuji Watanabe 1304 Kanaokacho, Sakai-shi, Osaka Daikin Industries, Ltd. Inside the Sakai Plant Kanaoka Plant (72) Inventor Kazuo Yonemoto 1304 Kanaokacho, Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture Daikin Industries Inside the Sakai Plant Kanaoka Plant F-term (reference) 3L050 BB07 BB12 BB20 3L054 BE10

Claims (13)

[Claims] An evaporating section (10) for evaporating water in the first low-pressure space (12), wherein the first low-pressure space (12) has a predetermined low-pressure state; Vaporization means (50, 90) for sucking water vapor from 12) and increasing its pressure, and vapor-permeable membrane (31) permeable to water vapor are introduced with water vapor pressurized by said pressure raising means (50, 90). A heat pump comprising: a second low-pressure space (32); and a water vapor discharge section (30) for permeating the moisture permeable membrane (31) and discharging water vapor from the second low-pressure space (32). 2. A first low-pressure space (12) is defined by a moisture-permeable membrane (11) that allows water vapor to pass therethrough.
2) is brought into a predetermined reduced pressure state, and the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11) opposite to the first low pressure space (12) is brought into contact with water, and the water vapor evaporated from the water is converted into the first low pressure space (12). ) Side, a pressure raising means (50, 90) for sucking water vapor from the first low-pressure space (12) and raising the pressure, and a moisture permeable membrane (31) permeable to water vapor. And a second low-pressure space (32) into which the water vapor pressurized by the pressure increasing means (50, 90) is introduced. The water vapor is transmitted from the second low-pressure space (32) through the moisture permeable membrane (31). A heat pump having a water vapor discharge section (30) for discharging. 3. A first low-pressure space (12) and an air space (13) are partitioned by a moisture-permeable membrane (11) permeable to water vapor. And introducing air and water into the air space (13), cooling the air by evaporating water in the air space (13), and dissolving water vapor in the air space (13) into the first low-pressure space (12).
A vaporizing section (10) for moving water vapor, pressure raising means (50, 90) for sucking water vapor from the first low-pressure space (12) and raising the pressure, and a moisture permeable membrane (31) permeable to water vapor. It has a second low-pressure space (32) into which the water vapor pressurized by the pressure raising means (50, 90) is introduced, and the water vapor is discharged from the second low-pressure space (32) through the moisture permeable membrane (31). A heat pump including a water vapor discharge section (30). 4. A first low-pressure space (12) is defined by a moisture-permeable membrane (11) that allows water vapor to pass therethrough.
2) is brought into a predetermined reduced pressure state, and the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (11) opposite to the first low pressure space (12) is brought into contact with the air to be cooled, and the water vapor in the air to be cooled is reduced to the first low pressure. A water vapor separator (15) for moving to the space (12) side; a pressure increasing means (50, 90) for sucking water vapor from the first low-pressure space (12) to increase the pressure; and a moisture permeable membrane (31) for transmitting water vapor. ), And a second low-pressure space (32) into which the steam pressurized by the pressure raising means (50, 90) is introduced. The second low-pressure space (32) passes through the moisture permeable membrane (31). A heat pump comprising: a water vapor discharge section (30) for discharging water vapor from the above); and a humidification cooling section (25) for cooling the air to be cooled supplied from the water vapor separation section (15) by humidification. 5. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein the water vapor discharge section (30) contacts a surface of the moisture permeable membrane (31) opposite to the second low pressure space (32) with the atmosphere. Let's say the second
A heat pump configured to release water vapor in the low-pressure space (32) into the atmosphere. 6. The heat pump according to claim 5, wherein a third low-pressure space (42) is defined by a moisture-permeable membrane (41) through which the water vapor is permeable, and the pressure of the water vapor is increased by the pressure increasing means (50, 90). Is introduced into the third low-pressure space (42), and the surface of the moisture permeable membrane (41) opposite to the third low-pressure space (42) is brought into contact with water, so that the water vapor in the third low-pressure space (42) is removed. A condensing section (40) configured to permeate and condense through the moisture permeable membrane (41), and perform an operation of heating an object using heat of condensation of water vapor in the condensing section (40). The heat pump that is composed. 7. The heat pump according to claim 6, wherein an operation of heating the object and an operation of cooling the object by utilizing latent heat of vaporization of water in the evaporator (10) are switched and performed. Heat pump. 8. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein the heating unit heats the object by heat of condensation of the steam discharged from the second low-pressure space of the steam discharge unit. 35) and a heat pump. 9. The heat pump according to claim 8, wherein condensed water generated by heating the object by the heating means (35) is supplied to the evaporator (10). 10. The heat pump according to claim 1, further comprising an extraction means (65) for extracting air from the second low-pressure space (32). 11. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein the pressure increasing means (50) is configured by a compressor (50) that compresses the suctioned steam to increase the pressure. 12. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein the pressure increasing means includes an absorbing medium for absorbing and releasing moisture, and absorbs water vapor by absorbing the absorbing medium. A heat pump configured to increase the pressure of water vapor by heating and releasing moisture. 13. The heat pump according to claim 1, wherein the pressure increasing means includes a steam generating means (115) for generating steam by heating, and a jet of steam generated by the steam generating means (115). A heat pump comprising an ejector (110) for sucking water vapor from the first low-pressure space (12).