HEAT EXCHANGE ELEMENT

Abstract

 A supply air passage and an exhaust air passage alternately formed between heat transfer sheets laminated on each other with a predetermined interval; an opposed part formed in a center of the heat transfer sheet in each air passage, in which supply air and exhaust air flow opposite to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween; an orthogonal part formed in each end portion of the heat transfer sheet in each air passage, in which supply air and exhaust air flow orthogonal to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween; and a shielding rib preventing airflow leakage from regions other than inlet and outlet ports of supply and exhaust air are included. The heat transfer sheet is disposed so that a direction in which the heat transfer sheet is wound up is perpendicular to the direction in which supply air and exhaust air are allowed to pass through in the opposed part. Even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by humidity, structural problem, and the like, high heat exchange efficiency performance can be obtained stably.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a laminated-structured heat exchange element for use in heat exchange type ventilation fans for domestic use, in heat exchange type ventilators for buildings and the like, or in other air-conditioning systems.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Conventionally, as heat exchange elements of this type, an element that applies corrugating processing is known in, for example, patent document 1.

[0003] Hereinafter, a heat exchange element known in patent document 1 is described with reference to Figs. 17 and 18. Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing a heat exchanger using a conventional heat exchange element. Fig. 18 is a sectional view showing a principal part thereof.

[0004] As shown in Fig. 17, conventional heat exchanger 101 has a heat exchange element including pairs of plates 102 facing each other with a predetermined interval therebetween, and planer fin 104 having a corrugated cross section for forming a plurality of parallel flow passages 103 in a gap between plates 102. Heat exchanger 101 includes spacers 105, which are introduced into every other step of plates 102, for guiding primary airflow M and secondary airflow N, and further includes space portion 106 on the downstream side of parallel flow passages 103 formed by fins 104. Plate 102 is bonded to fin 104 and spacer 105 by an adhesive agent, respectively.

[0005] Furthermore, an inlet port for primary airflow M and an inlet port for secondary airflow N are disposed on the sides facing each other. An outlet port for primary airflow M and an outlet port for secondary airflow N are disposed on the side perpendicular to the sides on which the inlet ports of primary airflow M and secondary airflow N are disposed. The side facing the side on which the outlet ports of primary airflow M and secondary airflow N are disposed is closed. That is to say, in heat exchanger 101, primary airflow M and primary airflow N that have passed through parallel flow passages 103 change the directions in space portion 106 and flow out from the side perpendicular to the inlet port. Primary airflow M and primary airflow N carry out heat exchange via plate 102.

[0006] As shown in Fig. 18, fin 104 is formed in a way in which pitch P is continuously reduced from one side to the side on which the outlet port is disposed. A channel cross-sectional area of parallel flow passage 103 is changed so as to improve the heat-exchange efficiency.

[0007] In such a conventional heat exchanger 101, heat exchange efficiency is thought to be improved by increasing a heat transfer area in a limited laminate height by reducing the interval between plates 102. In this case, however, it is necessary to increase bond portions between plate 102 and fin 104 so as to maintain the structure of parallel flow passage 103. Therefore, the effective area of a heat transfer plate is reduced by the bond portions, thus deteriorating the heat exchange efficiency. In addition, an adhesive agent to be used for bonding plate 102 and fin 104 overflows from the bond portion, thus remarkably reducing the effective area of plate 102. Also, the heat exchange efficiency is deteriorated. Thus, in a conventional heat exchange element, it has been difficult to improve the heat exchange efficiency in a limited laminate height.

[0008] Furthermore, when plate 102 is formed of paper, in the actual manufacturing process, it is difficult to accurately adjust the thicknesses of fin 104 with uneven pitches P and spacer 105. When fin 104 and spacer 105 are adhesively bonded to each other, fin 104 having a large thickness is crushed while fin 104 having a small thickness cannot be properly bonded to plate 102. Thus, it becomes impossible to achieve the designed pitch P. Furthermore, the precision in the thickness direction is lowered. Therefore, deformation of plate 102 or the difference in height of each plate 102 may cause a drift in the heat exchange element, thereby reducing the heat exchange efficiency.

[0009] Furthermore, when heat transfer sheet of a hoop material is used, it is known that the dimension of the heat transfer sheet tends to be changed in a direction perpendicular to the hoop direction (wind-up direction) due to humidity, and the like. Therefore, mixing of primary airflow N and secondary airflow M may be increased because the adhesively bonded portion exfoliates due to the contraction of the heat transfer sheet after the heat exchange element is manufactured. Furthermore, due to the expansion of the heat transfer sheet, plate 102 may be deformed so as to cause a drift in the heat exchange element-This may deteriorate the heat exchange efficiency. Therefore, stable heat exchange efficiency is required to be maintained without being affected by deformation of the heat transfer sheet.

[0010] As mentioned above, in a conventional heat exchange element, heat exchange efficiency performance may be unstable due to deformation of the heat transfer sheet because of problems of humidity and structure, and the like.

[Patent document 1] Japanese Patent Unexamined Publication No. S60-238689

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention addresses the problems discussed above, and aims to provide a heat exchange element capable of stably obtaining high heat exchange efficiency performance.

[0012] The present invention relates to a heat exchange element including an opposed part formed in a center portion of a heat transfer sheet in each of a supply air passage and an exhaust air passage, in which supply air and exhaust air flow opposite to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween; and an orthogonal part formed on each end portion of the heat transfer sheet in each of the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, in which supply air and exhaust air flow orthogonal to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween. The heat transfer sheet is disposed so that a direction in which the heat transfer sheet is wound up is perpendicular to a flowing direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air are allowed to pass through, in the opposed part.

[0013] With such a configuration, the present invention can obtain high heat exchange efficiency performance stably even when a heat transfer sheet is deformed due to humidity, structure problem, or the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] 

Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the heat exchange element.

Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a hoop direction of a heat transfer sheet of the heat exchange element.

Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a deformed portion of the heat exchange element.

Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a dividing rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a dividing rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing a dividing rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view showing a dividing rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view showing a dividing rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a dividing rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a schematic sectional view of a principal part taken on line 11-11 of Fig. 10.

Fig. 12 is a schematic perspective view showing a shielding rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with an eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 13 is a sectional view showing the principal part of Fig. 12.

Fig. 14 is a schematic perspective view showing a shielding rib of a heat exchange element in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 15 is a sectional view showing the principal part of Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a tenth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 17 is a schematic perspective view showing a conventional heat exchange element.

Fig. 18 is a side configuration view showing the heat exchange element.

REFERENCE MARKS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0015] 

1

heat exchange element

2

heat transfer sheet

3

supply air passage

4

exhaust air passage

5

opposed part

6

orthogonal part

7

inlet port

8

outlet port

9

shielding rib

10

hoop shape

11

deformed portion

12a

first dividing rib

12b

second dividing rib

12c, 12d

dividing rib

13

connecting rib

14

end portion of heat transfer sheet

15

stepped portion

16

reinforcing rib

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0016] A heat exchange element of the present invention includes a supply air passage for allowing supply air to pass through and an exhaust air passage for allowing exhaust air to pass through, which are alternately formed between a plurality of heat transfer sheets laminated on each other with a predetermined interval; an opposed part formed in a center portion of the heat transfer sheet in the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow opposite to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween; an orthogonal part formed in each end portion of the heat transfer sheet in the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow orthogonal to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween; and a shielding rib being formed in the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage and preventing airflow leakage from regions other than an inlet port and an outlet port of the supply air and the exhaust air. The heat transfer sheet is disposed so that a direction in which the heat transfer sheet is wound up is perpendicular to a flowing direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air are allowed to pass through, in the opposed part.

[0017] Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, a drift of supply air and exhaust air is suppressed when the heat transfer sheet is deformed. Therefore, the change of the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

[0018] Furthermore, the heat exchange element of the present invention includes a first dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow in inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage.

[0019] Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, a deformed portion of the heat transfer sheet in the opposed part is fixed by the dividing rib. Therefore, interval between the heat transfer sheets can be maintained and deformation of the heat transfer sheet can be corrected.

[0020] Furthermore, the heat exchange element of the present invention includes a second dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow out inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage.

[0021] Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, a deformed portion of the heat transfer sheet in the orthogonal part is fixed by the dividing rib. Therefore, interval between the heat transfer sheets can be maintained and deformation of the heat transfer sheet can be corrected.

[0022] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, the first dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow in, which is provided inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, and the second dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow out, which is provided inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, are connected to each other.

[0023] Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, the deformed portions in the opposed part and the orthogonal part of the heat transfer sheet are fixed by the dividing rib. Therefore, interval between the heat transfer sheets can be maintained and deformation of the heat transfer sheet can be corrected. Furthermore, by the first dividing rib in the opposed part and the second dividing rib in the orthogonal part, a surface is formed stably.

[0024] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, the first dividing rib and the second dividing rib are connected to each other by a curved connecting rib.

[0025] Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, the deformed portions in the opposed part and the orthogonal part of the heat transfer sheet are fixed by the dividing rib. Therefore, interval between the heat transfer sheets can be maintained and deformation of the heat transfer sheet can be corrected. Furthermore, since air flowing from the orthogonal part to the opposed part flows along the curved shape of the dividing rib, pressure loss can be reduced.

[0026] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, an end portion of the heat transfer sheet is positioned inside the shielding rib. Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet may be deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, the bonding strength is improved in the inlet port and the outlet port of the supply air and the exhaust air of the heat transfer sheet. Therefore, variation in bonding strength in manufacture can be eliminated, and the change in the heat exchange efficiency can be eliminated.

[0027] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, the shielding rib includes a stepped portion. Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet is deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, the stepped portions are fitted into each other, thus increasing pressure loss when air flows through the fitted portion. Therefore, leakage of the supply air and the exhaust air can be reduced, thus eliminating the change of the heat exchange efficiency.

[0028] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, a plurality of the dividing ribs are provided and reinforcing ribs are provided between neighboring dividing ribs. Thus, in addition to the adhesive bonding area between the dividing rib and heat transfer plate, an adhesive bonding area between the reinforcing rib and the heat transfer sheet is added.

[0029] Therefore, since the deformation of the heat transfer sheet can be corrected by the dividing rib and the reinforcing rib, even when the heat transfer sheet may be deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, the change of the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

[0030] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, the heat transfer sheet is disposed in a center portion in a height direction of the shielding rib, and the shielding rib and the dividing rib are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding, thereby forming the shielding rib and the dividing rib on both surfaces of the heat transfer sheet.

[0031] Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet may be deformed by the influence of humidity, structure, or the like, the dividing rib and the heat transfer sheet are adhesively bonded by insert molding. Furthermore, an area of the dividing rib and the heat transfer sheet are adhesively bonded to each other is increased. Therefore, the deformation of the heat transfer sheet can be corrected and the change in the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

[0032] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, the heat transfer sheet is disposed in a center portion in a height direction of the shielding rib, and the shielding rib and the dividing rib are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding, thereby forming the shielding rib on both surfaces of the heat transfer sheet and forming the dividing rib on one surface of the heat transfer sheet.

[0033] Thus, in the manufacturing process, the thermoplastic resin tends to flow and the height of the dividing rib can be reduced. Therefore, the interval between the heat transfer sheet of the supply air passage and the heat transfer sheet of the exhaust air passage can be reduced. Therefore, the number of heat transfer plates can be increased under the condition of limited laminate dimension. Thus, the heat exchange efficiency performance can be improved.

[0034] Furthermore, in the heat exchange element of the present invention, a wind-up direction is a hoop direction of the heat transfer sheet. Thus, even when the heat transfer sheet may be deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, a drift of the supply air and the exhaust air can be suppressed at the time when the heat transfer sheet is deformed. Therefore, the change in the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

[0035] Hereinafter, a heat exchange element in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention is described with reference to drawings.

(FIRST EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0036] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the heat exchange element.

[0037] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, heat exchange element 1 in accordance with this exemplary embodiment includes supply air passage 3 for allowing supply air A to pass through and exhaust air passage 4 for allowing exhaust air B to pass through, which are alternately formed between a plurality of heat transfer sheets 2 laminated on each other with a predetermined interval. Each of supply air passages 3 and exhaust air passages 4 has opposed part 5, in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow opposite to each other with the heat transfer sheet 2 therebetween, in the center portion of heat transfer sheet 2. Furthermore, each of supply air passages 3 and exhaust air passages 4 has orthogonal part 6, in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow orthogonal to each other with heat transfer sheet 2 therebetween, on each end portion of heat transfer sheet 2. Furthermore, each of supply air passage 3 and exhaust air passage 4 has shielding rib 9 for preventing leakage of an airflow from regions other than inlet port 7 and outlet port 8 of supply air A and exhaust air B. Heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed so that hoop direction C (a direction in which a band-like hoop material is wound up) of heat transfer sheet 2 is perpendicular to the flowing direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B are allowed to flow in opposed part 5.

[0038] That is to say, as shown in Fig. 3, heat transfer sheet 2 is produced from hoop material (winding band-like material) 10 by cutting or punching process. Heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed so that the direction in which supply air A or exhaust air B flows in is perpendicular to the hoop direction C of the thus produced heat transfer sheet 2. Heat transfer sheet 2 is made of Japanese paper, flame retardant paper, or specially-treated paper having heat conductivity, moisture permeability, and a gas shielding property. Furthermore, shielding rib 9 is made of thermoplastic resin such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), AS (acrylonitrile styrene), and PS (polystyrene). These materials are also used in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0039] Heat exchange element 1 of this exemplary embodiment having such a configuration carries out heat exchange via heat transfer sheet 2 by allowing supply air A and exhaust air B to pass through in every other air passages.

[0040] In general, pulp fibers for forming paper at the time of sheet-formation tend to be arranged in parallel in hoop direction C flowing on the sheet forming machine. Heat transfer sheet 2 tends to stretch in hoop direction C because pulp fibers swell at the time of absorbing moisture. In this exemplary embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed so that hoop direction C of heat transfer sheet 2 becomes perpendicular to the flowing direction of opposed part 5 allowing supply air A and exhaust air B to pass through. Thus, when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, since heat transfer sheet 2 is fixed by shielding rib 9 in the direction at a right angle with respect to the hoop direction. As shown in Fig. 4, deformed portion 11 is formed along hoop direction C.

[0041] Thus, when deformed portion 11 is formed by the influence of humidity or the like, change in a distance of supply air passage 3 and exhaust air passage 4 between heat transfer sheets 2 is inevitable. However, in this exemplary embodiment, since heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed so that hoop direction C of heat transfer sheet 2 becomes perpendicular to the flowing direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B are allowed to pass, variation of distance with respect to the width direction of the flow passage crass-section between heat transfer sheets 2 in opposed part 5 can be minimized. As a result, a drift in supply air A and exhaust air B can be suppressed.

[0042] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, change in the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

(SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0043] Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 5, in this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first dividing ribs 12a having different length for dividing flow passages are disposed inside supply air passage 3 and exhaust air passage 4 in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow in. Other configuration is the same as that in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0044] With such a configuration, deformed portion 11 of heat transfer sheet 2 in opposed part 5 is fixed by first dividing ribs 12a. As a result, the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected.

[0045] In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first dividing ribs 12a are disposed. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may include at least one dividing rib.

[0046] Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, first dividing ribs 12a are provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow in, but they may not necessarily be disposed in parallel in the present invention as long as supply air A and exhaust air B flow out smoothly.

[0047] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, a predetermined interval between heat transfer sheets 2 can be maintained.

(THIRD EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0048] Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 6, in this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second dividing ribs 12b having different length for dividing the flow passage are disposed in orthogonal part 6 inside supply air passage 3 and exhaust air passage 4 in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow out. Other configuration is the same as those in the first exemplary embodiment.

[0049] With such a configuration, deformed portion 11 in orthogonal part 6 of heat transfer sheet 2 is fixed by second dividing ribs 12b. As a result, the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected.

[0050] In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second dividing ribs 12b are disposed. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may include at least one dividing rib.

[0051] Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, second dividing ribs 12b are provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow out, but they may not necessarily be disposed in parallel in the present invention as long as supply air A and exhaust air B flow out smoothly.

[0052] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, a predetermined interval between heat transfer sheets 2 can be maintained.

(FOURTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0053] Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 7, in this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first dividing ribs 12a having different length provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow in and a plurality of second dividing ribs 12b having different length provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow out are connected to each other.

[0054] With the above-mentioned configuration, deformed portions 11 in opposed part 5 and orthogonal part 6 of heat transfer sheet 2 are fixed by integrated first and second dividing ribs 12a and 12b. Consequently, the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be further corrected. In addition, by first dividing rib 12a in opposed part 5 and second dividing rib 12b in the orthogonal part, the surface is formed stably.

[0055] In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first and second dividing ribs 12a and 12b are disposed. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may include at least one connected body.

[0056] Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, first dividing ribs 12a are provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow in as well as second dividing ribs 12b are provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow out, but may not be necessarily in parallel as long as supply air A and exhaust air B can flow in and flow out smoothly in the present invention.

[0057] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, a predetermined interval between heat transfer sheets 2 can be maintained. Furthermore, even when variation in dimension of shielding rib 9 occurs and twisting power is applied at the time of lamination, a predetermined interval between heat transfer sheets 2 can be maintained.

(FIFTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0058] Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 8, in this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first dividing ribs 12a having different length provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow in and a plurality of second dividing ribs 12b having different length provided in parallel to the direction in which supply air A and exhaust air B flow out are connected to each other at R-shaped (curved) connecting ribs 13.

[0059] With the above-mentioned configuration, deformed portions 11 in opposed part 5 and orthogonal part 6 of heat transfer sheet 2 are fixed by integrated first and second dividing ribs 12a and 12b, so that the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be further corrected. Furthermore, by first dividing rib 12a in opposed part 5 and second dividing rib 12b in orthogonal part 6, the surface is formed stably. In addition, air flowing from orthogonal part 6 to opposed part 5 flows along connecting rib 13.

[0060] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, a predetermined interval between heat transfer sheets 2 can be maintained. Furthermore, even when variation in dimension of shielding rib 9 occurs at the time of lamination, a predetermined interval between heat transfer sheets 2 can be maintained. In addition, since air flowing from orthogonal part 6 to opposed part 5 flows along the R shape of connecting rib 13, pressure loss can be reduced.

(SIXTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0061] Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 9, in this exemplary embodiment, shielding rib 9 and dividing rib 12c are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding. In this exemplary embodiment, by disposing heat transfer sheet 2 in a center portion in the height direction of shielding rib 9 and insert-molding thereof, shielding rib 9 and dividing rib 12c are formed on both surfaces of heat transfer sheet 2.

[0062] With the above-mentioned configuration, since dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other by insert molding, the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected. Furthermore, since dividing ribs 12c are adhesively bonded to both surfaces of heat transfer sheet 2 and an area in which dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other is increased, the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be further corrected.

[0063] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, the change of the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

(SEVENTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0064] Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11 is a schematic sectional view of a principal part taken on line 11-11, and is a side configuration view showing an end portion of the heat transfer sheet in inlet port 7 and outlet port 8 of supply air A and exhaust air B of heat transfer sheet 2 in this exemplary embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment similar to the sixth exemplary embodiment, shielding rib 9 and dividing rib 12c are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding. In this exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figs. 10 and 11, insert molding is carried out so that heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed in the center portion in the height direction of shielding rib 9, thereby forming shielding rib 9 and dividing rib 12c on both surfaces of the heat transfer sheet so that end portion 14 of the heat transfer sheet is formed inside shielding rib 9.

[0065] With the above-mentioned configuration, dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other by insert molding. Furthermore, with the above-mentioned configuration, since an area in which dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other is increased, the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected. Furthermore, the above-mentioned configuration improves bonding strength in inlet port 7 and outlet port 8 of supply air A and exhaust air B of heat transfer sheet 2.

[0066] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, since dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other by insert molding and an area in which dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other is increased, deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected. Furthermore, since end portion 14 of the heat transfer sheet is formed inside shielding rib 9 and an area in which heat transfer sheet 2 is adhesively bonded to end portion 14 and shielding rib 9 is increased, variation in bonding strength at the time of production can be eliminated. The change of heat exchange efficiency can be eliminated.

(EIGHTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0067] Fig. 12 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with an eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 13 is a sectional view of the principal part of Fig. 12, showing an exploded cross-section of two heat transfer sheets 2 in an opposed part seen from the direction of an air passage. In this exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figs. 12 and 13, similar to the sixth exemplary embodiment, shielding rib 9 and dividing rib 12c are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding. In addition, by carrying out insert molding so that heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed in the center portion in the height direction of shielding rib 9, stepped portion 15 is provided in shielding rib 9 when shielding rib 9 and dividing rib 12c are formed on both surfaces of the heat transfer sheet. Stepped portion 15 may have concavity and convexity and may have any shapes as long as stepped portions 15 of shielding ribs 9 in the upper and lower parts may be fitted into each other. The height of stepped portion 15 on a front surface (or a rear surface) of heat transfer sheet 2 is substantially the same as the height of dividing rib 12c, and the height of dividing rib 12c on a rear surface (or a front surface) of heat transfer sheet 2 is substantially the same as that of the height of dividing rib 12c. That is to say, when stepped portions 15 of shielding rib 9 of heat transfer sheet 2 positioned in the upper and lower parts are fitted into each other, the height of stepped portion 15 and that of dividing rib 12c are set so that dividing rib 12c can be fixed in contact with heat transfer sheet 2 in the upper part.

[0068] With the above-mentioned configuration, since dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other by insert molding and an area in which dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other is increased, deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected. Furthermore, stepped portions 15 are fitted into each other, so that pressure loss when air flows between shielding ribs 9 can be increased at the time of lamination.

[0069] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, since dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other by insert molding and an area in which dividing rib 12c and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other is increased, deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the leakage of air volume, eliminating the change in the heat exchange efficiency.

(NINTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0070] Fig. 14 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a ninth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 15 is a sectional view of a principal part of Fig. 14, showing an exploded cross-section of two heat transfer sheets 2 in the opposed part seen from the direction of an air passage. In this exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figs. 14 and 15, similar to the sixth exemplary embodiment, shielding ribs 9 are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding. In addition, insert molding is carried out so that heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed in the center portion in the height direction of shielding rib 9, thereby forming shielding rib 9 on both surfaces of heat transfer sheet 2.

[0071] In addition, in this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of dividing ribs 12d having a predetermined height are provided in a predetermined interval of heat transfer sheet 2 on any one surface of front and rear surfaces of the heat transfer sheet. That is to say, in this exemplary embodiment, the height of dividing rib 12d is twice as that of shielding rib 9. Therefore, with the above-mentioned configuration, sectional area of dividing rib 12d is twice as the case where the dividing rib is provided on both surfaces.

[0072] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, since a sectional area of dividing rib 12d is increased in the production process, thermoplastic resin tends to flow and the height of dividing rib 12d can be further lowered. Therefore, the interval of heat transfer sheet 2 can be reduced and the number of heat transfer sheets 2 can be increased under the condition of the limited laminate dimension. Therefore, it is possible to improve the heat exchange efficiency performance.

(TENTH EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT)

[0073] Fig. 16 is a schematic perspective view showing a heat exchange element in accordance with a tenth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, as shown in Fig. 16, similar to the sixth exemplary embodiment, shielding rib 9 is integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding. Furthermore, insert molding is carried out so that heat transfer sheet 2 is disposed in the center portion in the height direction of shielding rib 9, thereby forming shielding rib 9 on both surfaces of heat transfer sheet 2.

[0074] In this exemplary embodiment, furthermore, in any one surface of the front and rear surfaces of heat transfer sheet 2, a plurality of dividing ribs 12d having a predetermined height are provided in a predetermined interval on heat transfer sheet 2. Furthermore, a plurality of reinforcing ribs 16 are provided between dividing ribs 12d. For a material of reinforcing rib 16, materials that are the same as those of dividing rib 12d and shielding rib 9 can be used.

[0075] With such a configuration, in addition to an area in which dividing ribs 12d and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other, an area in which reinforcing ribs 16 and heat transfer sheet 2 are adhesively bonded to each other is added. Therefore, with the above-mentioned configuration, supply air passage 3 and exhaust air passage 4 become narrower by a portion of height of reinforcing rib 16. However, since reinforcing rib 16 corrects the deformation of heat transfer sheet 2, an air passage can be further secured as compared with the case where heat transfer sheet 2 is changed.

[0076] Thus, according to the heat exchange element of this exemplary embodiment, since dividing rib 12d is formed on one surface of heat transfer sheet 2, thermoplastic resin flows easily and the height of dividing rib 12d can be lowered, so that the interval of heat transfer sheet can be reduced. Therefore, since the number of heat transfer sheets 2 can be increased under the condition of a limited laminate dimension, the heat exchange efficiency performance is improved. Furthermore, since deformation of heat transfer sheet 2 can be corrected by dividing rib 12d and reinforcing rib 16, even when heat transfer sheet 2 is deformed by the influence of humidity or the like, change in the heat exchange efficiency performance can be eliminated.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0077] The present invention can be used as a laminated-structured heat exchange element for use in heat exchange type ventilation fans for domestic use, in heat exchange type ventilators for buildings and the like, or in other air-conditioning systems.

Claims

1. A heat exchange element comprising

a supply air passage for allowing supply air to pass through and an exhaust air passage for allowing exhaust air to pass through, which are alternately formed between a plurality of heat transfer sheets laminated on each other with a predetermined interval;

an opposed part formed in a center portion of the heat transfer sheet in the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow opposite to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween;

an orthogonal part formed on each end portion of the heat transfer sheet in the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow orthogonal to each other with the heat transfer sheet therebetween; and

a shielding rib being formed in the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage and preventing airflow leakage from regions other than an inlet port and an outlet port of the supply air and the exhaust air;

wherein the heat transfer sheet is disposed so that a direction in which the heat transfer sheet is wound up is perpendicular to a flowing direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air are allowed to pass through in the opposed part.

2. The heat exchange element of claim 1,
wherein a first dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow in is provided inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage.

3. The heat exchange element of claim 1,
wherein a second dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow out is provided inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage.

4. The heat exchange element of claim 1,
wherein the first dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow in, which is provided inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, and the second dividing rib for dividing each air passage in a direction in which the supply air and the exhaust air flow out, which is provided inside the supply air passage and the exhaust air passage, are connected to each other.

5. The heat exchange element of claim 4,
wherein the first dividing rib and the second dividing rib are connected to each other by a curved connecting rib.

6. The heat exchange element of claim 1,
wherein the end portion of the heat transfer sheet is positioned inside the shielding rib.

7. The heat exchange element of claim 1,
wherein the shielding rib includes a stepped portion.

8. The heat exchange element of any one of claims 2 to 4,
wherein a plurality of the dividing ribs are provided and a reinforcing rib is provided between neighboring dividing ribs.

9. The heat exchange element of claim 2, wherein the heat transfer sheet is disposed in a center portion in a height direction of the shielding rib, and the shielding rib and the dividing rib are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding, thereby forming the shielding rib and the dividing rib on both surfaces of the heat transfer sheet.

10. The heat exchange element of claim 2, wherein the heat transfer sheet is disposed in a center portion in a height direction of the shielding rib, and the shielding rib and the dividing rib are integrally formed of thermoplastic resin by insert molding, thereby forming the shielding rib on both surfaces of the heat transfer sheet and forming the dividing rib on one surface of the heat transfer sheet.

Drawing