Space decontamination device

Abstract

The space purifying device (10) of the present application is provided with a hypochlorous acid water generating section (30), a mixing tank (31), a hypochlorous acid water supply section (36), a water supply section (50), a humidifying purifying section (11), and a control section (41). The control section (41) is configured to, after the end of humidifying purifying operation using mixed water, execute the following first cleaning operation: water is supplied from the water supply section (50) to the electrolysis tank (31), and the water stored in the electrolysis tank (31) is not electrolyzed but supplied to the mixing tank (31) using the hypochlorous acid water supply section (36).

Description

Space purification device Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a space purification device that atomizes water and blows out air containing the atomized water, and releases the atomized water containing purifying components. Background Technology

[0002] As a conventional space purification device, there is a known air conditioning system that releases air supplied to the room by contacting a gas-liquid contact member containing purification components (such as hypochlorous acid and other active oxygen) and thereby sterilizing the space supplied with air (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In conventional space purification devices, an aqueous solution containing hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid water) is generated by electrolyzing salt water.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-133521 Summary of the Invention

[0007] However, in conventional air purification devices, when the device is stopped, the hypochlorous acid water remaining inside sometimes dries, and components contained in the hypochlorous acid water (such as sodium chloride) precipitate out. There are concerns that with repeated operation and shutdown of the device, such precipitates may accumulate and cause blockages in piping and other components.

[0008] This invention provides a space purification device that can suppress the formation of blockages within the device during prolonged continuous use.

[0009] The space purification device of the present invention comprises: a hypochlorous acid water generation unit having an electrolytic cell for storing an aqueous sodium chloride solution and an electrode for electrolyzing the aqueous sodium chloride solution by passing an electric current to generate hypochlorous acid water; a mixing tank for storing a mixture of hypochlorous acid water and water; a hypochlorous acid water supply unit for supplying hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit to the mixing tank; a water supply unit for supplying water to the electrolytic cell or the mixing tank; a humidification and purification unit for atomizing the mixed water and releasing it into the air by using humidification and purification operation of the mixed water stored in the mixing tank; and a control unit for controlling the hypochlorous acid water generation unit, the hypochlorous acid water supply unit, the water supply unit, and the humidification and purification unit. The control unit is configured to perform the following first cleaning operation after the humidification and purification operation of the mixed water is completed: supplying water from the water supply unit to the electrolytic cell, and supplying the water stored in the electrolytic cell to the mixing tank by means of the hypochlorous acid water supply unit instead of electrolyzing the water stored in the electrolytic cell.

[0010] According to the present invention, a space purification device is provided that can suppress the generation of blockages within the device during prolonged continuous use. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the structure of a space purification system equipped with the space purification device of Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the structure of the control unit of the space purification device in Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the processing sequence of the cleaning operation performed by the space purification device of Embodiment 1. Detailed Implementation

[0014] The space purification device of the present invention comprises: a hypochlorous acid water generation unit having an electrolytic cell for storing an aqueous sodium chloride solution and an electrode for electrolyzing the aqueous sodium chloride solution by passing an electric current to generate hypochlorous acid water; a mixing tank for storing a mixture of hypochlorous acid water and water; a hypochlorous acid water supply unit for supplying hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit to the mixing tank; a water supply unit for supplying water to the electrolytic cell or the mixing tank; a humidification and purification unit for atomizing the mixed water and releasing it into the air by using humidification and purification operation of the mixed water stored in the mixing tank; and a control unit for controlling the hypochlorous acid water generation unit, the hypochlorous acid water supply unit, the water supply unit, and the humidification and purification unit. The control unit is configured to perform the following first cleaning operation after the humidification and purification operation of the mixed water is completed: supplying water from the water supply unit to the electrolytic cell, and supplying the water stored in the electrolytic cell to the mixing tank by means of the hypochlorous acid water supply unit instead of electrolyzing the water stored in the electrolytic cell.

[0015] According to this structure, in the first cleaning action, the components, including the flow path from the electrolytic cell to the mixing cell, can be cleaned using water stored in the electrolytic cell, removing components (such as sodium chloride) precipitated due to the hypochlorous acid water. Therefore, in the space purification device, even under long-term continuous use, the generation of blockages within the device can be suppressed.

[0016] Alternatively, in the space purification device of the present invention, the control unit may be configured to perform a second cleaning operation after the first cleaning operation is completed: supplying water from the water supply unit to the mixing tank, and using the water stored in the mixing tank for humidification and purification operation. In this way, during the second cleaning operation, the interior of the humidification and purification unit (e.g., the separator) can be cleaned using the water stored in the mixing tank, removing components (e.g., sodium chloride) precipitated due to hypochlorous acid water. Therefore, in the space purification device, even under prolonged continuous use, the generation of blockages within the device can be further suppressed.

[0017] Alternatively, in the space purification apparatus of the present invention, during the first cleaning operation, the control unit may be configured to control the water supply unit in such a way that, after the supply of hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit to the mixing tank is completed, water is supplied from the water supply unit to the electrolytic cell, and water is pre-stored in the electrolytic cell. Thus, after the supply of hypochlorous acid water from the electrolytic cell to the mixing tank is completed, the electrodes of the electrolytic cell are immersed in water. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the following situation: when the electrolytic cell is left empty, as the slightly residual hypochlorous acid water on the surface of components, including the electrodes in the electrolytic cell, dries, the components in the hypochlorous acid water concentrate, and the concentrated components cause localized corrosion of the components, including the electrodes.

[0018] Alternatively, in the space purification device of the present invention, the control unit may be configured to terminate the humidification and purification operation after a predetermined period. Thus, the cleaning operation (first cleaning operation or second cleaning operation) is performed periodically, thereby reliably suppressing clogging within the device even during prolonged continuous use.

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described below are all preferred examples of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, constituent elements, arrangement positions of constituent elements, and connection methods shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, constituent elements in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent technical solution representing the highest concept of the present invention are described as arbitrary constituent elements. Furthermore, in the figures, substantially identical structures are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0020] (Implementation Method 1)

[0021] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the structure of a space purification system 100 equipped with a space purification device 10 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The space purification system 100 is an apparatus that, when circulating air in an indoor space 18, cools (dehumidifies) or heats the air 8 (RA) from the indoor space 18 as needed, and includes air purification components (hereinafter also simply referred to as "air purification components") along with finely ground water in the air 8 circulating inside. The space purification system 100 sterilizes and deodorizes the indoor space 18 by supplying the air 9 (SA) circulating inside to the indoor space 18. Here, hypochlorous acid is used as the air purification component, and the water containing the air purification component is an aqueous solution containing hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid water).

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the space purification system 100 is mainly composed of a space purification device 10, an air conditioning device 15, and a hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30.

[0023] The space purification device 10 includes an outlet 3, an air purification unit 11, and an air purification control unit 41. The air conditioning device 15 includes an intake 2, a blower 13, a refrigerant coil 14, and an air conditioning control unit 42. The space purification device 10 and the air conditioning device 15 each have a housing that forms the outer frame of the device, and they are connected by a pipe 24. Furthermore, the intake 2 is formed on the side of the air conditioning device 15, and the outlet 3 is formed on the side of the space purification device 10.

[0024] The intake port 2 is an inlet for drawing air 8 from the indoor space 18 into the air conditioning device 15. The intake port 2 is connected to the indoor intake port 16a provided in the ceiling or the like in the indoor space 18 via a pipe 16. Thus, the intake port 2 can draw air from the indoor space 18 into the air conditioning device 15 from the indoor intake port 16a.

[0025] The outlet 3 is an outlet that discharges the air 9 (SA) that has circulated within the space purification device 10 into the indoor space 18. The outlet 3 is connected to the indoor outlet 17a provided in the ceiling or the like in the indoor space 18 via a pipe 17. Thus, the outlet 3 can blow the air 9 that has circulated within the space purification device 10 from the indoor outlet 17a toward the indoor space 18.

[0026] Furthermore, the air conditioning device 15 and the space purification device 10 are internally configured with air ducts (front air duct 4, middle air duct 5, and rear air duct 6) that connect the intake 2 and the outlet 3 via pipes 24. The front air duct 4 is the air duct adjacent to the intake 2. A blower 13 and a refrigerant coil 14 are installed in the front air duct 4.

[0027] The middle section air passage 5 is located adjacent to the front section air passage 4 (pipe 24) and is a passage for the air 8 that has circulated in the front section air passage 4 to circulate. An air purification unit 11 is installed in the air passage of the middle section air passage 5.

[0028] The rear air passage 6 is an air passage adjacent to the outlet 3. In the rear air passage 6, the air 8 that has flowed in the middle air passage 5 flows in the air purification section 11 and becomes air 9 that contains hypochlorous acid and finely ground water.

[0029] In the air conditioning device 15 and the space purification device 10, the air 8 drawn in from the intake port 2 flows through the front air passage 4, the middle air passage 5 and the rear air passage 6, and the air 9 is blown out from the outlet 3.

[0030] The air supply fan 13 of the air conditioning unit 15 is a device for supplying air 8 (RA) from the indoor space 18 into the air conditioning unit 15 from the intake port 2. The air supply fan 13 is installed upstream of the refrigerant coil 14 in the front air passage 4. The operation of the air supply fan 13 is controlled to be turned on / off according to the air supply output information from the air conditioning control unit 42. When the air supply fan 13 operates, the air 8 from the indoor space 18 is drawn into the air conditioning unit 15 and sent to the refrigerant coil 14.

[0031] The refrigerant coil 14 is a component disposed downstream of the blower 13 within the front air duct 4 and used to cool or heat the introduced air 8. The refrigerant coil 14 changes its output state (cooling, heating, or off) according to the output signal from the air conditioning control unit 42, adjusting the cooling capacity (cooling amount) or heating capacity (heating amount) of the introduced air 8. In the refrigerant coil 14, when cooling the introduced air 8, dehumidification is also performed on the introduced air 8; therefore, the cooling capacity (cooling amount) of the air 8 can also be described as the dehumidification capacity (dehumidification amount) of the air 8.

[0032] The refrigerant coil 14 functions as either a heat absorber or a heat radiator in a refrigeration cycle that includes a compressor, radiator, expander, and absorber, and is configured to absorb heat (cool) or dissipate heat (heat) as the refrigerant introduced from the outdoor unit 20 circulates internally. More specifically, the refrigerant coil 14 is connected to the outdoor unit 20 via a refrigerant circuit 21 for refrigerant flow. The outdoor unit 20 is an outdoor unit located in the outdoor space 19 and includes a compressor 20a, an expander 20b, an outdoor heat exchanger 20c, a blower fan 20d, and a four-way valve 20e. The outdoor unit 20 uses a conventional structure, therefore detailed descriptions of each component (compressor 20a, expander 20b, outdoor heat exchanger 20c, blower fan 20d, and four-way valve 20e) are omitted.

[0033] A four-way valve 20e is connected in the refrigeration cycle including the refrigerant coil 14. Therefore, in the air conditioning device 15, it is possible to switch between a cooling mode (dehumidification mode) in which refrigerant flows in the first direction under the action of the four-way valve 20e to cool and dehumidify the air (air 8) and a heating mode in which refrigerant flows in the second direction under the action of the four-way valve 20e to heat the air (air 8).

[0034] Here, the first direction is the direction in which the refrigerant flows sequentially through the compressor 20a, the outdoor heat exchanger 20c, the expander 20b, and the refrigerant coil 14. The second direction is also the direction in which the refrigerant flows sequentially through the compressor 20a, the refrigerant coil 14, the expander 20b, and the outdoor heat exchanger 20c. The refrigerant coil 14 can cool or heat the introduced air (air 8).

[0035] The air purification unit 11 of the space purification device 10 is a unit for humidifying the air 8 taken in, and during humidification, hypochlorous acid and finely condensed water are contained in the air. More specifically, the air purification unit 11 includes a water level sensor 90, a separator 91, a mixing tank 92, a humidification motor 11a, and a humidification nozzle 11b.

[0036] The air purification unit 11 has a centrifugal pulverizing structure: a humidifying motor 11a rotates the humidifying nozzle 11b, using centrifugal force to draw up water (hypochlorous acid water) stored in the mixing tank 92 of the air purification unit 11 and disperse, collide, and pulverize it in the surroundings (centrifugal direction), thus incorporating moisture into the air passing through. The air purification unit 11 adjusts its humidification capacity (humidification amount) by changing the rotational speed (hereinafter referred to as the rotational output value) of the humidifying motor 11a according to the output signal from the air purification control unit 41. The humidification amount can also be described as the amount of hypochlorous acid added to the air. It should be noted that the air purification unit 11 is equivalent to the "humidifying purification unit" in the technical solution.

[0037] The water level sensor 90 measures the water level of the hypochlorous acid water (mixed water) in the mixing tank 92 and outputs the measured value to the air purification control unit 41.

[0038] The separator 91 is a porous body that allows air to pass through. It is located on the side of the air purification unit 11 (towards the centrifugal outlet 3) and is configured to allow air to pass through in the centrifugal direction. In the separator 91, water droplets emitted from the humidifying nozzle 11b collide with each other, thereby reducing the water droplets to a finer size, and capturing large water droplets contained in the air passing through the air purification unit 11. As a result, the air circulating through the air purification unit 11 contains only vaporized water.

[0039] The mixing tank 92 is a tank for storing hypochlorous acid water in the air purification unit 11, and can also be described as a water storage unit. In the mixing tank 92, hypochlorous acid water of a specified concentration supplied by the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (electrolysis tank 31) and water supplied by the water supply unit 50 are mixed in the tank and stored as a mixed water consisting of diluted hypochlorous acid water.

[0040] The hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 includes an electrolytic cell 31, an electrode 32, a solenoid valve 33, a brine tank 34, a brine transfer pump 35, a water level sensor 39, and a hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36.

[0041] The solenoid valve 33 controls whether to supply tap water from a water supply pipe (hereinafter referred to as the water supply pipe 52) to the electrolysis cell 31 based on the output signal from the air purification control unit 41. It should be noted that the solenoid valve 33 constitutes the water supply unit 50 described later.

[0042] The brine tank 34 is a container for storing liquid (salt water) containing chloride ions. The brine transfer pump 35 supplies the brine from the brine tank 34 to the electrolysis cell 31 based on the output signal from the air purification control unit 41.

[0043] Electrolytic cell 31 stores the brine supplied from brine tank 34 as the object of electrolysis. In electrolytic cell 31, according to the output signal from air purification control unit 41, tap water is also supplied from water supply pipe (water supply pipe 52) such as tap water pipe via solenoid valve 33. The supplied tap water is mixed with brine and stored as brine of a predetermined concentration.

[0044] Electrode 32 consists of a pair of electrodes. Electrode 32 is disposed in electrolysis cell 31, and according to the output signal from air purification control unit 41, the salt water is electrolyzed for a predetermined time by energizing, generating hypochlorous acid water of a predetermined concentration.

[0045] That is, in electrolytic cell 31, a chloride aqueous solution (e.g., sodium chloride aqueous solution) serving as the electrolyte is electrolyzed between a pair of electrodes to generate hypochlorous acid water. Since a conventional apparatus is used for electrolytic cell 31, detailed description is omitted. Here, the electrolyte is any electrolyte capable of generating hypochlorous acid water, and there are no particular limitations as long as it contains a small amount of chloride ions. For example, aqueous solutions containing sodium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, etc., dissolved as solutes can be cited. Furthermore, even hydrochloric acid is acceptable. In this embodiment, a sodium chloride aqueous solution (salt water) obtained by adding sodium chloride to water is used as the electrolyte.

[0046] The water level sensor 39 measures the water level in the electrolytic cell 31 and outputs the measured value to the air purification control unit 41.

[0047] Hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​supplies hypochlorous acid water from electrolysis cell 31 to mixing tank 92 of air purification unit 11 based on an output signal from air purification control unit 41. Hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​includes a hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 and a water delivery pipe 38. Hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 delivers hypochlorous acid water from electrolysis cell 31 to water delivery pipe 38 based on an output signal from air purification control unit 41. Water delivery pipe 38 connects hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 and mixing tank 92, and delivers hypochlorous acid water towards mixing tank 92.

[0048] The water supply unit 50 supplies water to the mixing tank 92 based on the output signal from the air purification control unit 41. The water supply unit 50 includes a solenoid valve 51 and a water delivery pipe 52. Additionally, the solenoid valve 33 described above is also included in the water supply unit 50. The solenoid valve 51 controls whether water supplied from the external water pipe of the space purification device 10 flows to the water delivery pipe 52 based on the output signal from the air purification control unit 41. The water delivery pipe 52 connects the solenoid valve 51 and the mixing tank 92 and delivers water towards the mixing tank 92.

[0049] In the air purification unit 11, hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​and water from the water supply unit 50 are supplied to the mixing tank 92 respectively. Furthermore, the hypochlorous acid water and water are mixed in the mixing tank 92 of the air purification unit 11. That is, the hypochlorous acid water is diluted and mixed with water from the water supply unit 50 in the mixing tank 92. The mixture of hypochlorous acid water and water is also called hypochlorous acid water. More specifically, in the mixing tank 92 of the air purification unit 11, the hypochlorous acid water remaining in the mixing tank 92 is supplied and mixed with either the hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​or the water from the water supply unit 50. The air purification unit 11 releases air containing hypochlorous acid water into the indoor space 18 by centrifuging the mixture of hypochlorous acid water and water stored in the mixing tank 92. The finely ground hypochlorous acid water is released into the indoor space 18 in a state where the liquid components have evaporated.

[0050] An operating device 43 is installed on the wall of the indoor space 18. The operating device 43 has a user interface that allows user operation and receives information from the user related to temperature setpoints, humidity setpoints, and humidification / purification operation. The operating device 43 includes a temperature and humidity sensor 44. The temperature and humidity sensor 44 measures the temperature and humidity of the air in the indoor space 18. Known techniques can be used to measure the temperature and humidity using the temperature and humidity sensor 44, therefore, a description is omitted here.

[0051] The operating device 43 is connected to the air purification control unit 41 and the air conditioning control unit 42 via wired or wireless means. In addition to information related to temperature setpoints, humidity setpoints, thermometer readings, and hygrometer readings, it also sends information related to the humidification and purification operation to the air purification control unit 41 and the air conditioning control unit 42. This information can be sent all at once, any two or more can be sent together, or they can be sent separately. Alternatively, the operating device 43 can send information to the air purification control unit 41, and the air purification control unit 41 can forward the information to the air conditioning control unit 42.

[0052] The air conditioning control unit 42 of the air conditioning device 15 receives the temperature setpoint and the thermometer reading, and controls the refrigerant coil 14 and the outdoor unit 20 in a manner that makes the thermometer reading close to the temperature setpoint. In heating mode, when the thermometer reading is lower than the temperature setpoint, the greater the difference between the thermometer reading and the temperature setpoint, the greater the degree of heating.

[0053] Next, the air purification control unit 41 of the space purification device 10 will be described.

[0054] The air purification control unit 41 controls the operations related to electrolysis in the electrolyzer 31, the supply of hypochlorous acid water to the air purification unit 11, the supply of water to the air purification unit 11, and the humidification purification process in the air purification unit 11, which are the processing operations of the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 and the space purification device 10. It should be noted that the air purification control unit 41 has a computer system with a processor and a memory. The processor executes a program stored in the memory, thereby enabling the computer system to function as a controller. The program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the computer system's memory, but it can be provided either by recording on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card or by providing it via an electrical communication line such as the Internet. Furthermore, the air purification control unit 41 is equivalent to the "control unit" in this technical solution.

[0055] Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the air purification control unit 41 includes an input unit 41a, a storage unit 41b, a timing unit 41c, a processing unit 41d, and an output unit 41e.

[0056] Actions related to electrolytic processing in an electrolytic cell

[0057] The air purification control unit 41 performs the following processes as part of the operation related to the electrolysis process in the electrolytic cell 31.

[0058] The air purification control unit 41 receives water level information (water shortage signal) from the water level sensor 39 and time-related information (time information) from the timing unit 41c, and outputs the received information to the processing unit 41d as a trigger for the electrolysis process of the electrolytic cell 31.

[0059] The processing unit 41d determines control information based on water level information from the water level sensor 39, time information from the timing unit 41c, and setting information from the storage unit 41b, and outputs the determined control information to the output unit 41e. Here, the setting information includes information related to the start or end time of hypochlorous acid water generation, information related to the supply amount of tap water introduced into the electrolysis cell 31, information related to the amount of brine added to the brine transfer pump 35, information related to the electrolysis conditions (time, current value, voltage, etc.) in the electrode 32, information related to the opening and closing timing of the solenoid valve 33, and information related to the on / off operation of the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37.

[0060] Here, the electrolysis conditions in electrode 32 can be determined based on the amount of tap water in electrolytic cell 31, chloride ion concentration, electrolysis time, and degree of deterioration of electrode 32, and are set by an algorithm and stored in storage unit 41b.

[0061] Furthermore, based on the received control information, the output unit 41e outputs signals (control signals) to each machine (salt water transfer pump 35, solenoid valve 33, and hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37).

[0062] More specifically, firstly, the brine delivery pump 35 remains stopped based on a signal from the output unit 41e, and the hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 remains stopped based on a signal from the output unit 41e.

[0063] Furthermore, the solenoid valve 33 is opened based on a signal from the output unit 41e. This initiates the supply of tap water from the water pipe to the electrolysis cell 31. Afterwards, the solenoid valve 33 is closed based on a signal from the output unit 41e receiving water level information (full) from the water level sensor 39. Thus, the electrolysis cell 31 is supplied with tap water at a set supply rate.

[0064] Next, the brine transfer pump 35 starts operating based on a signal from the output unit 41e and stops after delivering a predetermined amount of brine to the electrolytic cell 31. Thus, since chloride ions are dissolved in the tap water, the electrolytic cell 31 becomes a state in which an aqueous solution (chloride aqueous solution) containing a predetermined amount of chloride ions has been generated.

[0065] Furthermore, electrode 32 initiates the electrolysis of the chloride aqueous solution based on a signal from output unit 41e, and stops after generating hypochlorous acid water under set conditions. The hypochlorous acid water generated by electrode 32 is, for example, in a state where the hypochlorous acid concentration is 100ppm to 150ppm (e.g., 120ppm) and the pH is 7 to 8.5 (e.g., 8.0).

[0066] As described above, the air purification control unit 41 performs electrolysis in the electrolysis cell 31 and generates hypochlorous acid water of a predetermined concentration and amount.

[0067] <Actions related to the supply treatment of hypochlorous acid water to the air purification unit>

[0068] As part of the operation related to the supply of hypochlorous acid water to the air purification unit 11, the air purification control unit 41 performs the following process.

[0069] The air purification control unit 41 uses the timing unit 41c to measure the operating time of the humidifying motor 11a. Whenever the operating time elapses for a predetermined period (e.g., 60 minutes), it outputs a hypochlorous acid water supply request to the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36) as a trigger for supplying hypochlorous acid water to the air purification unit 11. Here, the predetermined period is a time estimated in advance through experimental evaluation based on the reduction of hypochlorous acid in the hypochlorous acid water over time due to vaporization.

[0070] Specifically, the processing unit 41d determines control information based on time-related information (time information) from the timing unit 41c and setting information from the storage unit 41b, and outputs the determined control information to the output unit 41e. Here, the setting information includes information related to the supply interval of hypochlorous acid water (e.g., 60 minutes) and information related to the on / off operation of the hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37.

[0071] Furthermore, the output unit 41e outputs a signal (control signal) to the hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 of the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​based on the received control information.

[0072] Hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 operates based on a signal from output unit 41e. Thus, in hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30, the supply of hypochlorous acid water from electrolysis cell 31 to air purification unit 11 (mixing tank 92) begins. It should be noted that, to ensure the concentration of hypochlorous acid water stored in electrolysis cell 31, when supplying hypochlorous acid water from hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 to mixing tank 92, all hypochlorous acid water generated in electrolysis cell 31 is supplied. Therefore, after the supply of hypochlorous acid water, the electrolysis cell 31 becomes empty, preventing the production of hypochlorous acid water from starting with residual hypochlorous acid water in the electrolysis cell 31. Water level sensor 39 outputs a water shortage signal as water level information when the state where all hypochlorous acid water in electrolysis cell 31 has been supplied is reached.

[0073] Subsequently, the hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 stops based on a signal received from the output unit 41e of the time-related information (the required time for supplying the specified amount) from the timing unit 41c. As a result, the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 supplies hypochlorous acid water from the electrolysis cell 31 to the air purification unit 11 (mixing tank 92) at a set supply amount.

[0074] As described above, the air purification control unit 41 performs the supply process of hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (electrolysis cell 31) to the air purification unit 11. It should be noted that the control of the air purification control unit 41 to supply hypochlorous acid water using the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​at predetermined intervals is referred to as "first control".

[0075] <Actions related to the supply and treatment of water to the air purification unit>

[0076] The air purification control unit 41 performs the following processing as an operation related to the supply processing of water to the air purification unit 11.

[0077] The air purification control unit 41 receives water level information (water shortage signal) from the water level sensor 90 of the space purification device 10 and outputs a water supply request to the water supply unit 50 as a trigger for supplying water to the air purification unit 11.

[0078] Specifically, the input unit 41a receives water level information (water shortage signal) from the water level sensor 90 of the space purification device 10 and outputs the received water level information (water shortage signal) to the processing unit 41d.

[0079] The processing unit 41d determines control information based on water level information (water shortage signal) from the input unit 41a, time-related information (time information) from the timing unit 41c, and setting information from the storage unit 41b, and outputs the determined control information to the output unit 41e. Here, the setting information includes information related to the on / off operation of the solenoid valve 51 of the water supply unit 50.

[0080] Furthermore, the output unit 41e outputs a signal (control signal) to the solenoid valve 51 based on the received control information.

[0081] The solenoid valve 51 operates based on a signal from the output unit 41e. As a result, water is supplied from the external water supply pipe to the air purification unit 11 (mixing tank 92) via the water delivery pipe 52 in the water supply unit 50.

[0082] Then, the solenoid valve 51 stops based on a signal from the output unit 41e that receives water level information (full water signal) from the water level sensor 90 of the space purification device 10. As a result, the water supply unit 50 supplies water from the external water supply pipe to the air purification unit 11 (mixing tank 92) until the set amount is reached.

[0083] As described above, the air purification control unit 41 performs the water supply process from the water supply unit 50 to the air purification unit 11. It should be noted that the control of the water supply from the water supply unit 50 by the air purification control unit 41 based on the water level information (water shortage information) related to the water level of the mixing tank 92 from the water level sensor 90 is referred to as "second control".

[0084] <Actions related to humidification and purification processes in the air purification unit>

[0085] Next, the operations of the air purification control unit 41 related to the humidification and purification process in the air purification unit 11 will be explained.

[0086] The input unit 41a receives user input information from the operating device 43, temperature and humidity information of the air in the indoor space 18 from the temperature and humidity sensor 44, and water level information of the hypochlorous acid water (mixed water) in the mixing tank 92 from the water level sensor 90. The input unit 41a outputs the received information to the processing unit 41d.

[0087] Here, the operating device 43 is a terminal that inputs user input information related to the space purification device 10 (e.g., air volume, target temperature, target humidity, presence or absence of hypochlorous acid, and target supply level of hypochlorous acid, etc.), and can be connected to the air purification control unit 41 wirelessly or via wired means.

[0088] In addition, the temperature and humidity sensor 44 is a sensor installed in the indoor space 18 to sense the temperature and humidity of the air in the indoor space 18.

[0089] The storage unit 41b stores the user input information received by the input unit 41a, as well as the supply setting information for the hypochlorous acid supply to the air circulating within the device. The storage unit 41b outputs the stored supply setting information to the processing unit 41d. It should be noted that the supply setting information for the hypochlorous acid supply operation can also be considered as the humidification setting information for the humidification purification operation of the air purification unit 11.

[0090] The timing unit 41c outputs the timing information related to the current time to the processing unit 41d.

[0091] The processing unit 41d receives various information (user input information, temperature and humidity information, and water level information) from the input unit 41a, time information from the timing unit 41c, and supply setting information from the storage unit 41b. The processing unit 41d uses the received user input information, time information, and supply setting information to determine control information related to the humidification and purification operation.

[0092] Specifically, the processing unit 41d determines the required humidification amount for the indoor space 18 at regular intervals based on the time information from the timing unit 41c and the humidity difference between the target humidity stored in the storage unit 41b and the temperature and humidity information of the air in the indoor space 18 from the temperature and humidity sensor 44. Furthermore, based on the determined humidification request amount and the supply setting information stored in the storage unit 41b, the processing unit 41d determines control information related to the humidification and purification operation. Finally, the processing unit 41d outputs the determined control information to the output unit 41e.

[0093] Furthermore, if the water level information from the water level sensor 90 includes information related to the water level indicating a shortage of hypochlorous acid water (mixed water) in the mixing tank 92 (a water shortage signal), the processing unit 41d will cause the output unit 41e to output a signal requesting water supply to the water supply unit 50. Moreover, based on the time information from the timing unit 41c, if the operating time of the air purification unit 11 (humidifying motor 11a) reaches a predetermined time (e.g., 60 minutes), the processing unit 41d will output a signal requesting hypochlorous acid water supply to the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the water level indicating a shortage of hypochlorous acid water (mixed water) in the mixing tank 92 is set to the level when the amount of hypochlorous acid water in the mixing tank 92 decreases from a full state to approximately 1 / 3.

[0094] Furthermore, the output unit 41e outputs the received signals to the air purification unit 11, the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36), and the water supply unit 50 respectively.

[0095] Furthermore, the air purification unit 11 receives a signal from the output unit 41e and performs operational control based on the received signal. At this time, the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36) receives a signal (a hypochlorous acid water supply request signal) from the output unit 41e and performs the aforementioned operations related to the supply of hypochlorous acid water to the air purification unit 11 (first control) based on the received signal. Additionally, the water supply unit 50 receives a signal (a water supply request signal) from the output unit 41e and performs the aforementioned operations related to the supply of water to the air purification unit 11 (second control) based on the received signal.

[0096] As described above, the air purification control unit 41 performs a first control to supply hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36) at predetermined intervals, and a second control to supply water from the water supply unit 50 based on information related to the water level of the mixing tank 92 (water shortage information) from the water level sensor 90, storing the mixed water in the mixing tank 92. Furthermore, when supplying hypochlorous acid water and water to the mixing tank 92 to store the mixed water, the air purification control unit 41 makes the supply cycle of hypochlorous acid water (at predetermined intervals) different from the supply cycle of water (whenever water shortage is detected), and performs humidification and purification treatment on the air circulating in the space purification device 10 (air purification unit 11).

[0097] Actions related to cleaning after humidification and purification treatment.

[0098] Next, as part of the cleaning process related to the completion of the humidification and purification process by the air purification control unit 41, the following process is performed.

[0099] The input unit 41a receives operation information (operation stop signal) from the operating device 43 regarding the humidification and purification operation, which triggers the cleaning process (cleaning mode) after the humidification and purification process is completed. Additionally, the input unit 41a receives user input information from the operating device 43, temperature and humidity information of the air in the indoor space 18 from the temperature and humidity sensor 44, water level information in the mixing tank 92 from the water level sensor 90, and water level information in the electrolysis tank 31 from the water level sensor 39. The input unit 41a outputs the received information to the processing unit 41d.

[0100] Storage unit 41b stores cleaning setting information related to cleaning operations. Storage unit 41b outputs the stored cleaning setting information to processing unit 41d.

[0101] Here, the cleaning setting information includes setting information related to the first cleaning action and setting information related to the second cleaning action. The first cleaning action is the following action after the humidification and purification operation ends: water is supplied from the water supply unit 50 (solenoid valve 33) to the electrolysis tank 31, but the water stored in the electrolysis tank 31 is not electrolyzed; instead, the water stored in the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​supplies the water stored in the electrolysis tank 31 to the mixing tank 92. The second cleaning action is the following action after the first cleaning action ends: water is supplied from the water supply unit 50 (solenoid valve 51) to the mixing tank 92, and the water stored in the mixing tank 92 is used for humidification and purification operation. It should be noted that the humidification and purification operation here can also be described as a simple humidification operation.

[0102] The timing unit 41c outputs the timing information related to the current time to the processing unit 41d.

[0103] The processing unit 41d receives various information from the input unit 41a, time information from the timing unit 41c, and cleaning setting information from the storage unit 41b. The processing unit 41d uses the received information, time information, and cleaning setting information to determine control information related to the cleaning process.

[0104] Furthermore, the output unit 41e outputs signals (control signals) to the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36), the air purification unit 11, and the water supply unit 50 respectively based on the received control information.

[0105] Furthermore, the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30, the air purification unit 11, and the water supply unit receive signals from the output unit 41e and control the cleaning process (first cleaning action) based on the received signals.

[0106] Specifically, in the first cleaning action, the following processes are performed.

[0107] First, the brine transfer pump 35 remains stopped based on a signal from the output unit 41e, and the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 remains stopped based on a signal from the output unit 41e.

[0108] Furthermore, the solenoid valve 33 is opened based on a signal from the output unit 41e. This initiates the supply of tap water from the water pipe to the electrolyzer 31. Afterwards, the solenoid valve 33 is closed based on a signal from the output unit 41e receiving water level information (full) from the water level sensor 39. Thus, the electrolyzer 31 is supplied with tap water at a set supply rate.

[0109] Furthermore, the hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 operates based on a signal from the output unit 41e. Thus, in the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30, water (water stored in the electrolysis cell 31) begins to be supplied from the electrolysis cell 31 to the air purification unit 11 (mixing tank 92). Afterward, the hypochlorous acid water delivery pump 37 stops based on a signal from the output unit 41e, which receives time-related information (the required time for delivering all the water in the electrolysis cell 31) from the timing unit 41c. Thus, the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 delivers all the water stored in the electrolysis cell 31 from the electrolysis cell 31 to the mixing tank 92.

[0110] Here, in the hypochlorous acid water supply section 36, and especially in the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37, although blockages are easily caused by salt precipitation due to hypochlorous acid water generated by the electrolysis of brine, this cleaning process can remove the hypochlorous acid water before the precipitated salt accumulates inside the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37.

[0111] Next, in the second cleaning action, the following process is performed.

[0112] First, the water supply unit 50 opens the solenoid valve 51 based on a signal from the output unit 41e. This initiates the supply of water from the water supply pipe 52 to the mixing tank 92. Then, the water supply unit 50 closes the solenoid valve 51 based on a signal from the output unit 41e receiving water level information (full water) from the water level sensor 90. This brings the mixing tank 92 to a state where it is fully supplied with water.

[0113] Furthermore, the air purification unit 11 receives a signal from the output unit 41e and performs a cleaning process (humidification operation) for a certain period of time (e.g., 20 minutes) based on the received signal. It should be noted that the humidification operation is not performed at the amount of humidification requested by the indoor space 18, but preferably at the minimum amount of humidification that the air purification unit 11 can handle. As a result, unnecessary humidification of the indoor space 18 can be reduced.

[0114] Here, in the air purification unit 11, in the separator 91 which is made of a porous body, although it is easy to become clogged due to salt precipitation caused by mixed water, by performing this cleaning process, the mixed water can be removed before the precipitated salt accumulates inside the separator 91.

[0115] Furthermore, in the air purification unit 11, water stored in the mixing tank 92 is discharged based on a signal from the output unit 41e.

[0116] As described above, the air purification control unit 41 performs a first cleaning action as a cleaning process for the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 (electrolysis cell 31, hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36), and performs a second cleaning action as a cleaning process for the air purification unit 11.

[0117] Next, the cleaning operation in the cleaning mode of the air purification device 10 will be described with reference to FIG3. FIG3 is a flowchart showing the processing sequence of the cleaning process performed by the air purification device 10. Here, the cleaning mode is set to be performed when certain conditions are met, for example, when the humidification and purification operation performed by the air purification unit 11 stops.

[0118] As shown in Figure 3, in the cleaning mode, the process of reliably emptying the electrolytic cell 31 and the mixing tank 92 is first performed (steps S01 to S04). Specifically, when the cleaning process begins, the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 is started to deliver the hypochlorous acid water stored in the electrolytic cell 31 to the mixing tank 92 (step S01). Afterwards, if a predetermined time T1 has elapsed since the start of the operation of the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 (yes in step S02), the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 is stopped, ending the process of delivering the hypochlorous acid water in the electrolytic cell 31 to the mixing tank 92 (step S03). On the other hand, if the predetermined time T1 has not elapsed (no in step S02), the operation of the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 continues as before (return to step S02). Here, the specified time T1 is the time (e.g., 30 seconds) required to send the entire amount of hypochlorous acid water stored in the electrolysis cell 31 to the mixing tank 92, and is a time estimated in advance through experimental evaluation.

[0119] Furthermore, when the electrolytic cell 31 is reliably emptied, the process of draining water from the mixing tank 92 will be carried out for a certain period of time (step S04).

[0120] Next, when the mixing tank 92 is reliably emptied, the solenoid valve 33 for the electrolysis tank 31 is opened (step S05), and tap water is supplied to the electrolysis tank 31 (step S06). Furthermore, if the water level sensor 39 detects that the tank is full (yes in step S06), the solenoid valve 33 for the electrolysis tank 31 is closed (step S07), stopping the water supply to the electrolysis tank 31. On the other hand, if the water level sensor 39 does not detect that the tank is full (no in step S06), the water supply to the electrolysis tank 31 continues as before (return to step S06).

[0121] When the water supply to the electrolysis cell 31 is completed in step S07, the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 is started (step S08) to deliver the water stored in the electrolysis cell 31 to the mixing tank 92 (step S09). Furthermore, if a predetermined time T1 has elapsed since the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 was started (yes in step S09), the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 is stopped (step S10), ending the water delivery operation from the electrolysis cell 31 to the mixing tank 92. On the other hand, if the predetermined time T1 has not elapsed (no in step S09), the water delivery operation performed by the hypochlorous acid water transfer pump 37 continues as before (return to step S09).

[0122] Here, the series of actions from step S05 to step S10 described above corresponds to the first cleaning action. In the first cleaning action, after only water is supplied to the hypochlorous acid water generating unit 30, water is transported to the mixing tank 92, so that water flows in both the hypochlorous acid water generating unit 30 and the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36. As a result, the hypochlorous acid water adhering to each component is flushed away by the water.

[0123] Next, when the electrolysis cell 31 is reliably emptied, the solenoid valve 51 for the mixing tank 92 is opened (step S11), initiating the supply of water to the mixing tank 92 (step S12). Furthermore, if the water level sensor 90 detects that the tank is full (yes in step S12), the solenoid valve 51 for the mixing tank 92 is closed (step S13), stopping the supply of water to the mixing tank 92. On the other hand, if the water level sensor 90 does not detect that the tank is full (no in step S09), the supply of water to the mixing tank 92 continues as before (return to step S09).

[0124] When the water supply to the mixing tank 92 is completed in step S09, the air purification unit 11 rotates the humidification motor 11a, thus starting the humidification operation (step S14). Furthermore, if a predetermined time T2 has elapsed since the start of the humidification operation (yes in step S15), the air purification unit 11 stops the operation, ending the humidification operation (step S16). On the other hand, if the predetermined time T2 has not elapsed (no in step S15), the humidification operation performed by the air purification unit 11 continues as before (returning to step S15). Here, the predetermined time T2 is the time it takes for water to spread throughout the air purification unit 11 (e.g., 20 minutes), and is a time estimated in advance through experimental evaluation.

[0125] Furthermore, when the humidification operation performed by the air purification unit 11 ends, the water in the mixing tank 92 is drained (step S17).

[0126] Here, the series of actions from step S11 to step S17 described above corresponds to the second cleaning action. In the second cleaning action, water is supplied to the mixing tank 92, and humidification is performed using the water stored in the mixing tank 92. As a result, water circulates within the air purification unit 11, thus washing away the hypochlorous acid water adhering to each component. That is, a cleaning process (removal of hypochlorous acid water) is performed within the air purification unit 11.

[0127] After the above processing sequence is completed, the cleaning process ends, and the air purification control unit 41 returns to the humidification and purification operation. That is, based on the user input information from the operating device 43, the air purification control unit 41 causes the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 and the space purification device 10 to execute their processing operations again.

[0128] The space purification device 10 according to Embodiment 1 of this invention can enjoy the following effects.

[0129] (1) The space purification device 10 includes: a hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30, which has an electrolytic cell 31 for storing an aqueous sodium chloride solution and an electrode 32 for electrolyzing the aqueous sodium chloride solution by passing an electric current to generate hypochlorous acid water; a mixing tank 92 for storing a mixture of hypochlorous acid water and water; a hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​for supplying hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30 to the mixing tank 92; a water supply unit 50 for supplying water to the electrolytic cell 31 or the mixing tank 92; an air purification unit 11 for humidifying and purifying the mixed water stored in the mixing tank 92, thereby atomizing the mixed water and releasing it into the air; and an air purification control unit 41 for controlling the hypochlorous acid water generation unit 30, the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36, the water supply unit 50, and the air purification unit 11. Furthermore, the air purification control unit 41 is configured to perform the following first cleaning action after the humidification and purification operation using mixed water is completed: water is supplied from the water supply unit 50 to the electrolysis tank 31, but the water stored in the electrolysis tank 31 is not electrolyzed. Instead, the water stored in the electrolysis tank 31 is supplied to the mixing tank 92 by the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36 ​​(a series of actions from step S05 to step S10).

[0130] Therefore, in the first cleaning action, the components, including the flow path from the electrolytic cell 31 to the mixing tank 92, are cleaned using water stored in the electrolytic cell 31, and components precipitated due to the hypochlorous acid water (such as sodium chloride) can be removed. Thus, in the space purification device 10, even with prolonged continuous use, blockage within the device can be suppressed.

[0131] (2) In the space purification device 10, after the first cleaning operation is completed, the air purification control unit 41 performs the following second cleaning operation: water is supplied from the water supply unit 50 to the mixing tank 92, and humidification and purification operation is performed using the water stored in the mixing tank 92 (a series of operations from step S11 to step S17). Thus, in the second cleaning operation, the interior of the air purification unit 11 (e.g., separator 91) can be cleaned using the water stored in the mixing tank 92, and components (e.g., sodium chloride) precipitated due to hypochlorous acid water can be removed. Therefore, in the space purification device 10, even when the device is used continuously for a long time, the generation of blockages in the device can be further suppressed.

[0132] The present invention has been described above based on embodiments. These embodiments are illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to the combinations of their constituent elements or processing steps, and these modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0133] In the space purification device 10 of this embodiment, it is described that upon receiving operation information (operation stop signal) from the operation device 43, each cleaning action (first cleaning action, second cleaning action) is performed as a cleaning process, but it is not limited to this. For example, if the humidification and purification operation has been running continuously for a certain period of time (for example, after 24 hours), the humidification and purification operation performed by the air purification unit 11 may be stopped, and the cleaning action may be performed. As a result, since the cleaning action (first cleaning action or second cleaning action) is performed periodically, the generation of blockages in the device can be reliably suppressed even when the device is used continuously for a long time.

[0134] Alternatively, in the space purification device 10 of this embodiment 1, the air purification control unit 41 may control the first cleaning operation in the following manner: after the supply of hypochlorous acid water from the electrolytic cell 31 to the mixing tank 92 is completed, water is supplied from the water supply unit 50 to the electrolytic cell 31, and water is pre-stored in the electrolytic cell 31. That is, in this first cleaning operation, immediately after the hypochlorous acid water is supplied from the electrolytic cell 31 to the mixing tank 92 by the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 36, water is stored in the electrolytic cell 31 until it is full, and it remains in standby state until the humidification and purification operation stops, at which point the subsequent processing is performed. In this way, after the supply of hypochlorous acid water from the electrolytic cell 31 to the mixing tank 92 is completed, the electrodes 32 of the electrolytic cell 31 are immersed in water. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the following situation: when the electrolytic cell 31 is left empty, the components in the hypochlorous acid water that are slightly residual on the surface of the components, including the electrode 32 in the electrolytic cell 31, dry and become concentrated, and the concentrated components cause localized corrosion of the components, including the electrode.

[0135] Furthermore, in the space purification device 10 of this embodiment, it is described that the first cleaning action and the second cleaning action are performed continuously as a cleaning process, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first cleaning action and the second cleaning action can be performed independently, or they can be performed at different predetermined times. Even so, the above-mentioned effects can still be enjoyed.

[0136] Furthermore, in the space purification device 10 of Embodiment 1, it is described that the first cleaning action is performed when the humidification and purification operation is stopped, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first cleaning action can also be performed during the humidification and purification operation. As a result, the water generated by the first cleaning action (the water that has passed through the electrolytic cell 31, etc.) can be used as the water for diluting the hypochlorous acid water in the mixing tank 92. In addition, since the electrolytic cell 31 is cleaned each time, electrolyte components such as sodium chloride in the electrolytic cell 31 are flushed away, thereby stabilizing the concentration of the hypochlorous acid water generated by electrolysis.

[0137] Industrial applicability

[0138] The space purification device of the present invention micronizes hypochlorous acid water and releases it into the air, and is useful as a device for sterilizing or deodorizing the air in the target space.

[0139] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0140] 2 suction port

[0141] 3. Blowout

[0142] 4. Front section of wind path

[0143] 5. Mid-section wind path

[0144] 6. Rear section of the wind path

[0145] 8. Air

[0146] 9. Air

[0147] 10. Space purification device

[0148] 11 Air Purification Department

[0149] 11a Humidifier Motor

[0150] 11b Humidifier nozzle

[0151] 13. Blower

[0152] 14 Refrigerant coil

[0153] 15. Air conditioning device

[0154] 16 pipes

[0155] 16a Indoor Inlet

[0156] 17 Pipelines

[0157] 17a Indoor air outlet

[0158] 18. Interior Space

[0159] 20 outdoor units

[0160] 20a compressor

[0161] 20b Expander

[0162] 20C Outdoor Heat Exchanger

[0163] 20d air supply fan

[0164] 20e four-way valve

[0165] 21 Refrigerant circuit

[0166] 24 Pipelines

[0167] 30 Hypochlorous Acid Water Generation Section

[0168] 31 Electrolytic Cell

[0169] 32 electrodes

[0170] 33 Solenoid valve

[0171] 34 Brine Tanks

[0172] 35. Brine transfer pump

[0173] 36 Hypochlorous Acid Water Supply Department

[0174] 37 Hypochlorous acid water transfer pump

[0175] 38 Water supply pipe

[0176] 39 Water level sensor

[0177] 41 Air Purification Control Department

[0178] 41a Input Section

[0179] 41b Storage Section

[0180] 41c Timing Unit

[0181] 41d Processing Department

[0182] 41e Output Section

[0183] 42 Air Conditioning and Control Department

[0184] 43 Operating device

[0185] 44 Temperature and humidity sensor

[0186] 50 Water Supply Department

[0187] 51 Solenoid valve

[0188] 52 Water supply pipe

[0189] 90 Water level sensor

[0190] 91 Separator

[0191] 92 Mixing tank

[0192] 100 Space Purification System.

Claims

1. A space purification device, wherein, The space purification device comprises: a hypochlorous acid water generation unit having an electrolytic cell for storing an aqueous sodium chloride solution and electrodes for electrolyzing the aqueous sodium chloride solution by applying electricity to generate hypochlorous acid water; a mixing tank for storing a mixture of hypochlorous acid water and water; a hypochlorous acid water supply unit for supplying hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit to the mixing tank; a water supply unit for supplying water to the electrolytic cell or the mixing tank; a humidification and purification unit for atomizing the mixed water and releasing it into the air by using humidification and purification operation of the mixed water stored in the mixing tank; and a control unit for controlling the hypochlorous acid water generation unit, The hypochlorous acid water supply unit, the water supply unit, and the humidification and purification unit, and the control unit are configured to perform the following first cleaning operation after the humidification and purification operation using the mixed water is completed: supplying water from the water supply unit to the electrolysis cell, without electrolyzing the water stored in the electrolysis cell, but using the hypochlorous acid water supply unit to supply the water stored in the electrolysis cell to the mixing tank; and the control unit is configured to perform the following second cleaning operation after the first cleaning operation is completed: supplying water from the water supply unit to the mixing tank, and using the water stored in the mixing tank to perform the humidification and purification operation.

2. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, In the first cleaning action, the control unit is configured to control the water supply unit in such a way that after the supply of hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water generation unit to the mixing tank is completed, water is supplied from the water supply unit to the electrolytic cell, and the water is pre-stored in the electrolytic cell.

3. The space purification device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control unit is configured to terminate the humidification and purification operation after a predetermined period.

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