Osaka Gas has patented a humidity control element with flat plate members forming flow paths for fluid exchange, using materials like resin, metal, or ceramic. The element includes a dehumidifying flow path with a chromium-based hygroscopic material for efficient moisture control. The patent emphasizes a long switching time between dehumidification and regeneration operations. GlobalData’s report on Osaka Gas gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Osaka Gas, Reformer integrated fuel cells was a key innovation area identified from patents. Osaka Gas's grant share as of January 2024 was 16%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Humidity control element with long switching time for dehumidification

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Osaka Gas Co Ltd

The granted patent (Publication Number: US11872522B2) discloses a humidity control element comprising a stack of flat plate members that create separate flow paths for different fluids, allowing for heat exchange between them. The flat plate members are made of various materials, including resin, paper, glass, metal, ceramic, or composite materials. A dehumidifying flow path is formed using a mixed liquid containing a metal organic framework MIL-101 (Cr) as a hygroscopic material, an acrylic polymer material as a binder, and a urethane-based polymer material as a thickener. The proportions of these materials are specified to achieve optimal performance in moisture absorption and desorption.

Furthermore, the patent describes specific characteristics related to the dehumidification amount, element height, flow path depth, and flow direction within the humidity control element. The element height and flow path depth are determined based on the dehumidification amount to ensure efficient operation. Additionally, the configuration of the first and second flow paths allows for dehumidification and temperature adjustment, with the flow direction of the second path being opposite or orthogonal to the first path. A method for using the humidity control element is also outlined, detailing a dehumidification and regeneration switching operation with specific considerations for the switching time to maintain optimal dehumidification performance. Overall, the patent presents a comprehensive approach to humidity control with a focus on efficiency and effectiveness in moisture management.

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GlobalData’s Patent Analytics tracks patent filings and grants from official offices around the world. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.