Sterilization device

Abstract

The sterilization device (2) of the present application is provided with: a storage portion (5) that stores an aqueous hypochlorous acid solution (6) of a prescribed concentration inside; an air supply portion (7) that sucks in air (3) of a single room space (1) and supplies it as bubbles (8) to the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution (6); an air release portion (9) that releases the bubbles (8) that float up in the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution (6) as air (4) containing hypochlorous acid gas to the single room space (1); a water supply portion (11) that cools moisture contained in the air (3) and supplies it as condensed water (12) to the storage portion (5); and a hypochlorous acid water adjustment portion (20) that adjusts the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution (6) stored in the storage portion (5) to a prescribed concentration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization device used for sterilization in single-room spaces and the like. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, as devices for sterilizing living spaces and reducing the risk of infection, there are known vaporization devices that release hypochlorous acid by vaporizing an aqueous hypochlorous acid solution, or ultrasonic devices that spray an aqueous hypochlorous acid solution (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-133521 Summary of the Invention

[0006] In conventional sterilization devices such as vaporization or ultrasonic sterilization devices, the amount of water released into the living space in conjunction with the release of hypochlorous acid is relatively large, thus requiring a large water supply. Consequently, it is necessary to connect the sterilization device to an external water supply system to achieve automatic water supply, which leads to the problem of larger sterilization devices.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a sterilization device that can automatically supply water and release hypochlorous acid into the target space without increasing the size of the device.

[0008] One aspect of the sterilization device of the present invention comprises: a storage section that stores an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid of a predetermined concentration; an air supply section that draws in external air and supplies it as bubbles to the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid; an air release section that releases bubbles floating in the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid as air containing hypochlorous acid gas to the outside; a water supply section that cools the moisture contained in the air and supplies it to the storage section as condensation; and a hypochlorous acid water adjustment section that adjusts the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid stored in the storage section to a predetermined concentration.

[0009] According to the sterilization device of the present invention, a sterilization device that can automatically supply water and release hypochlorous acid into the target space without increasing the size of the device can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the installation of the sterilization device of Embodiment 1-1 of the present invention in a single-room space.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device according to Embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3AThis is a schematic side view showing the structure of the water supply unit in the sterilization device according to Embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3B This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the water supply unit in the sterilization device according to Embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the operation flow of the sterilization device according to Embodiment 1-1 of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device according to embodiments 1-2 of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device according to embodiments 1-3 of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the operation flow of the sterilization device according to embodiments 1-3 of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the installation of the sterilization device of Embodiment 2-1 of the present invention in a single-room space.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device according to Embodiment 2-1 of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 10A This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the water supply unit in the sterilization device according to Embodiment 2-1 of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 10B This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the water supply unit in the sterilization device according to Embodiment 2-1 of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the operation flow of the sterilization device according to Embodiment 2-1 of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 12 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device according to Embodiment 2-2 of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The sterilization device of the present invention comprises: a storage section that stores an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid of a predetermined concentration; an air supply section that draws in external air and supplies it as bubbles to the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid; an air release section that releases bubbles floating in the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid as air containing hypochlorous acid gas to the outside; a water supply section that cools the moisture contained in the air and supplies it to the storage section as condensation; and a hypochlorous acid water adjustment section that adjusts the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid stored in the storage section to a predetermined concentration.

[0025] According to this structure, when a small amount of air is circulated as bubbles in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution using the air supply section, these small bubbles (circulating air) contain a large amount of hypochlorous acid gas and are released to the outside from the air release section. At this time, the bubbles (circulating air) entering the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution are suppressed to a small amount, thus suppressing the amount of water released to the outside from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution by vaporizing into the bubbles (circulating air), thereby reducing the required water supply to the storage section. As a result, the required water supply can be ensured using the water supply section (which supplies condensed water to the storage section), eliminating the need to connect the sterilization device to an external water supply system for automatic water supply. In other words, the sterilization device can automatically supply water and release hypochlorous acid into the target space without requiring a large-scale device.

[0026] Furthermore, in the sterilization device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit is configured to include: a tank storing an aqueous chloride solution; a pump delivering the aqueous chloride solution from the tank to the storage unit; and an electrode electrolyzing the aqueous chloride solution pumped out to generate hypochlorous acid. With this structure, by mixing the aqueous chloride solution with the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution stored in the storage unit and performing electrolysis, the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution can be easily adjusted to a predetermined concentration.

[0027] Furthermore, in the sterilization apparatus of the present invention, it is preferable that the water supply unit supplies condensed water to the storage unit when the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution stored in the storage unit decreases by a predetermined amount. This allows the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution in the storage unit to be maintained within a predetermined range. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas can be generated under predetermined conditions, enabling a stable release of hypochlorous acid by the sterilization apparatus.

[0028] Furthermore, in the sterilization device of the present invention, it is preferable that the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution stored in the storage unit to a predetermined concentration at constant intervals. This ensures that the concentration of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution, which decreases due to the release of hypochlorous acid, is maintained within a predetermined range. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas can be generated under predetermined conditions, enabling stable release of hypochlorous acid by the sterilization device.

[0029] Furthermore, the sterilization device of the present invention also includes an opening and closing section configured to open and close the release port of the air release section. Additionally, the opening and closing section may be configured to block the release port when the supply of bubbles from the air supply section stops. In this way, when the supply of bubbles from the air supply section stops, the release of hypochlorous acid vaporized from the surface of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution from the release port of the air release section can be suppressed. That is, a state in which unnecessary hypochlorous acid is not released from the sterilization device can be achieved.

[0030] Furthermore, in the sterilization device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit is configured to have a tank for storing the hypochlorous acid water stock solution and a pump for discharging the hypochlorous acid water stock solution from the tank to the storage unit. With this structure, the hypochlorous acid water solution stored in the storage unit can be easily adjusted to a predetermined concentration or higher by mixing the hypochlorous acid water solution with the hypochlorous acid water stock solution and the condensate from the water supply unit.

[0031] Furthermore, in the sterilization apparatus of the present invention, it is preferable that, when the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution stored in the storage section decreases by a predetermined amount, the water supply section supplies condensate water to the storage section in accordance with the supply of the original hypochlorous acid solution provided by the hypochlorous acid water adjustment section. In this way, the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution in the storage section can be maintained within a predetermined range. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas can be generated under predetermined conditions, and a stable release of hypochlorous acid by the sterilization apparatus can be achieved.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are merely examples embodying the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the invention. Furthermore, the figures described in the embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in the figures may not reflect the actual size ratios.

[0033] (Implementation Method 1)

[0034] Implementation method 1 includes at least the following implementation methods 1-1, 1-2 and 1-3.

[0035] (Implementation Method 1-1)

[0036] First, refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 An overview of the sterilization device 2 in Embodiment 1-1 will be described. Figure 1 This is a schematic side view showing an example of the installation of the sterilization device 2 in a single-room space 1 according to Embodiment 1-1 of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device 2. Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the water supply unit 11 in the sterilization device 2. Here, Figure 3AThis is a top-view summary of the state of the water supply unit 11 as observed from above. Figure 3B This is a summary side view of the state of the water supply unit 11 as observed from the side.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the sterilization device 2 is positioned at a predetermined height on the wall of the single-room space 1. The sterilization device 2 draws in air 3 from the single-room space 1 and adds hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) to the drawn-in air 3, releasing it as hypochlorous acid-containing air 4 back into the single-room space 1. As a result, the single-room space 1 is sterilized using the released air 4 (hypochlorous acid-containing air 4). In other words, the sterilization device 2 can be described as a device that sterilizes the single-room space 1 by releasing hypochlorous acid. It should be noted that the installation location of the sterilization device 2 in the single-room space 1 is unrestricted as long as it can be connected to an external power source.

[0038] Private room 1 is a space used by users for business discussions or rest, and is constructed of walls and doors. A table or chairs may also be placed in private room 1. Additionally, an air conditioning unit (for cooling and heating) may be installed in private room 1.

[0039] Air 3 is air that is drawn into the sterilization device 2 from the single-room space 1. Figure 1 The arrow, indicated by the reference numeral "3" in the attached figure, shows the main airflow of air 3.

[0040] Air 4 is the air blown from the sterilization device 2 into the single-room space 1. Figure 1 The arrow, indicated by the reference numeral "4" in the attached figure, shows the main airflow of air 4. Air 4 contains hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) generated inside the sterilization device 2, as detailed later.

[0041] Next, the specific structure of the sterilization device 2 will be described.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, the sterilization device 2 is configured to include a storage unit 5, an air supply unit 7, an air release unit 9, a separator 10, a water supply unit 11, a chloride supply unit 13, an electrode 14, and a water level sensor 16 (full water sensor 16a, low water sensor 16b).

[0043] The storage section 5 is a container that stores the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 internally. The storage section 5 has a quadrangular prism shape, and when viewed from the front at the release port 9a of the air release section 9, its external dimensions are, for example, a width of 246 mm, a depth of 66 mm, and a height of 115 mm. It should be noted that the storage section 5 can also be described as the shell that constitutes the outer frame of the sterilization device 2.

[0044] The storage section 5 forms an internal space 5a above the surface of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 when the solution is full. Furthermore, inlets for introducing condensed water 12 from the water supply section 11 and for introducing chloride aqueous solution 15 from the chloride supply section 13 are respectively provided on the side walls of the container constituting the internal space 5a. Additionally, an air supply section 7 and an electrode 14 are provided at the bottom of the storage section 5, submerged in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. Furthermore, water level sensors 16 (full water sensor 16a, low water sensor 16b) for detecting the water level of the stored hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 are provided at predetermined positions in the storage section 5. Additionally, an opening (not shown) for communication and connection with the air release section 9 is provided on the upper surface (upper end) of the storage section 5.

[0045] Hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is an aqueous solution containing hypochlorous acid generated by electrolyzing the chloride aqueous solution 15 (described later). Hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 has the function of containing hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) inside the bubbles 8 supplied from the air supply unit 7 as they flow through the liquid due to buoyancy. Therefore, by increasing or decreasing the concentration of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the bubbles 8 can be increased or decreased. Furthermore, by setting the hydrogen ion concentration (pH) of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 to a level of 5-7, hypochlorous acid can be easily vaporized from hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the bubbles 8. Additionally, by increasing the distance the bubbles 8 rise under the influence of buoyancy (the distance the bubbles 8 travel in hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6), the contact time between hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and bubbles 8 is increased, thereby increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in bubbles 8. Therefore, in this embodiment, the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is set to approximately 100 mg / L, the pH of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is set to approximately 7, and the capacity (capacity when full) of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored internally is set to approximately 1 L based on the outer diameter of the storage section 5. It should be noted that the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is adjusted to be several times higher than the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution used in conventional sterilization devices such as vaporization or ultrasonic sterilization devices.

[0046] The air supply unit 7 is a component that draws in air 3 from the single-chamber space 1 and supplies the drawn-in air 3 as bubbles 8 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. More specifically, the air supply unit 7 is configured to include an air stone 7a, an air pump 7b, and an air pipe 7c.

[0047] The air stone 7a is a stone (e.g., a stone made of porous ceramic or porous synthetic resin) that causes air 3, which is introduced from air pump 7b via air pipe 7c, to be atomized into fine bubbles and released as bubbles 8 into hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. The air stone 7a is installed at the bottom of storage section 5 in a state of being submerged in hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6.

[0048] The air pump 7b is located outside the storage section 5. Furthermore, the air pump 7b is a component that draws in the air 3 of the single-chamber space 1 through the suction port (not shown) and increases the pressure to deliver it to the air stone 7a.

[0049] The air pipe 7c is a component used to connect the air stone 7a and the air pump 7b and to allow the air 3 discharged from the air pump 7b to flow to the air stone 7a. The air pipe 7c is provided to pass through the side wall of the storage section 5.

[0050] The air supply unit 7 is configured as described above.

[0051] Furthermore, in the air supply unit 7, by controlling the amount of air 3 supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and the size (diameter) of the generated bubbles 8, the amount of hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) contained in the air 4 released from the air release unit 9 to the single-room space 1 can be adjusted.

[0052] Specifically, in the air supply section 7, if the supply amount of air 3 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 increases, the corresponding amount of bubbles 8 generated increases, thereby increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the air 4 released from the air release section 9. Furthermore, in the air supply section 7, by reducing the size (diameter) of the bubbles 8 released to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, the rising speed of the bubbles 8 during buoyancy is reduced, thus increasing the contact time between the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and the bubbles 8. Moreover, by reducing the size (diameter) of the bubbles 8, the contact area between the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and the bubbles 8 flowing in the liquid is increased compared to cases where the bubble size (diameter) is larger. As a result, the amount of hypochlorous acid absorbed into the bubbles 8 during their buoyancy as they float in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 increases, thereby increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the air 4 released from the air release section 9.

[0053] Here, the supply rate of air 3 from the air supply unit 7 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 can be controlled by the air discharge rate of the air pump 7b. Furthermore, the size (diameter) of the bubbles 8 can be controlled by the size of the pores in the air stone 7a (and the air discharge rate of the air pump 7b). Based on these factors, in this embodiment, the supply rate of air 3 from the air supply unit 7 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is set to 0.1 m. 3 The size (diameter) of the bubbles 8 generated in the gas stone 7a is set to 1mm to 2mm at the / h level.

[0054] Bubble 8 is air obtained by atomizing air 3 drawn from the single-chamber space 1 into a bubble-like form by the air supply unit 7 (air stone 7a), and is sealed with air under the action of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. Bubble 8 released from the air supply unit 7 rises to the surface while drawing in hypochlorous acid (and moisture) contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. Then, bubble 8 bursts and disappears when it reaches the surface of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. Furthermore, the air inside bubble 8 mixes with the hypochlorous acid (and moisture) contained in the air and the air in the internal space 5a. Then, the air in the internal space 5a (air containing hypochlorous acid) is released from the air release unit 9 as air 4 back into the single-chamber space 1. Thus, it can also be said that bubble 8 is released as air 4 containing hypochlorous acid.

[0055] The air release unit 9 is a component that releases air containing hypochlorous acid (air within the internal space 5a) from the storage unit 5 as air 4 from the release port 9a into the single-room space 1. The air release unit 9 is provided on the upper surface of the storage unit 5. More specifically, the air release unit 9 has a release port 9a, an air passage 9b, and a separator 10.

[0056] The release port 9a is a slit-shaped opening that releases air (air containing hypochlorous acid) from the internal space 5a of the storage section 5 into the single-room space 1 as air 4. For example, the release port 9a is configured to blow air 4 in a direction opposite to the wall where the sterilization device 2 is installed (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0057] The air passage 9b is configured to connect the release port 9a with an opening provided on the upper surface of the storage section 5.

[0058] The separator 10 is a component that removes water droplets and other debris generated when bubbles 8 burst at the liquid surface within the storage section 5. The separator 10 is a porous body that allows airflow and is installed on the air passage 9b (the air passage 9b on the storage section 5 side) by sealing the opening on the upper surface of the storage section 5. It should be noted that the separator 10 can also be considered a water droplet remover because it collects water droplets contained in the air passing through it. Therefore, in the sterilization device 2, water droplets can be prevented from being released from the air release section 9 into the single-chamber space 1.

[0059] The water supply unit 11 is a component that cools the moisture contained in the air 3 outside (single-room space 1) and supplies it as condensation water 12 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 in the storage unit 5. The water supply unit 11 is provided on the outside of the storage unit 5 and is configured to introduce condensation water 12 into the storage unit 5 through an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting the internal space 5a.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 3A as well as Figure 3BAs shown, the water supply unit 11 is configured to include a Peltier element 11a, a radiator 11b1, a radiator 11b2, a heat dissipation fan 11c, and a guide 1id.

[0061] The Peltier element 11a is a type of plate-shaped semiconductor thermoelectric element (electronic component) that utilizes the Peltier effect. The Peltier element 11a absorbs heat (cools) on one side and releases heat (heats) on the other side by flowing a direct current in a certain direction. Furthermore, when the direction of the direct current is changed, the heat-absorbing (cooling) side and the heat-releasing (heating) side of the Peltier element 11a are interchanged. In this embodiment, a Peltier element 11a with dimensions of 40 mm in width and 40 mm in height is used.

[0062] Heat sinks 11b1 and 11b2 are components bonded to various surfaces of the Peltier element 11a and facilitate heat absorption and release by the Peltier element 11a. The heat-absorbing and heat-releasing surfaces of the Peltier element 11a change periodically, thus heat sinks 11b1 and 11b2 perform both heat absorption and heat release. In this embodiment, heat sinks 11b1 and 11b2 are made of aluminum and are constructed with multiple heat-releasing fins arranged in a sword-like shape, having an outer diameter of 40 mm in width, 20 mm in depth, and 40 mm in height.

[0063] The heat dissipation fan 11c is a component used to blow air onto and cool the heat sink 11b1 or 11b2, which serves as the heat dissipation side, thereby promoting the heat dissipation performed by the Peltier element 11a. Therefore, the heat dissipation fan 11c is configured to blow air across both the heat sink 11b1 and the heat sink 11b2.

[0064] The guide member 11d is a component that forms a water passage guiding the condensate 12 dripping from the radiator 11b1 or radiator 11b2 to the storage section 5. For example... Figure 3B As shown, the guide 11d is disposed below the radiator 11b1 and radiator 11b2 in the vertical direction and is connected to the inlet (not shown) provided on the side wall of the storage section 5.

[0065] Next, the operating procedure of the water supply department 11 will be explained.

[0066] In the water supply section 11, by flowing a direct current in a certain direction through the Peltier element 11a, heat is absorbed in the radiator 11b1 and released in the radiator 11b2. This causes the radiator 11b1 to reach a temperature of -5°C and the radiator 11b2 to reach a temperature of 45°C. As a result, the temperature of the air 3 near the radiator 11b1 (the heat-absorbing side) drops below freezing, causing moisture in the air 3 to condense. Furthermore, a heat-dissipating fan 11c blows air onto the radiator 11b2 (and the radiator 11b1). This cools the radiator 11b2 (the heat-dissipating side), promoting heat release by the Peltier element 11a. After a certain period of time, the radiator 11b1 (the heat-absorbing side) becomes covered with a certain amount of condensed water.

[0067] After a predetermined time, the direction of the direct current flowing in the Peltier element 11a is reversed, thereby reversing the heat-absorbing and heat-releasing surfaces of the Peltier element 11a. As a result, heat is released in the radiator 11b1, and the temperature of the radiator 11b1 reaches approximately 45°C. Conversely, heat is absorbed in the radiator 11b2, and the temperature of the radiator 11b2 reaches approximately -5°C. Consequently, the condensed condensate 12 adhering to the radiator 11b1 melts and drips directly downwards. Meanwhile, moisture in the air 3 condenses and solidifies in the radiator 11b2. Subsequently, the heat-absorbing and heat-releasing surfaces of the Peltier element 11a are reversed at constant intervals, allowing condensation, solidification, and melting to occur repeatedly in the radiators 11b1 and 11b2 as described above, causing the condensed condensate 12 to drip. The dripping condensed condensate 12 is then collected by the guide member 11d and guided and supplied to the storage unit 5.

[0068] Through this action, the water supply unit 11 is able to supply the condensed water 12 to the storage unit 5. Here, the temperature of the air 3 is set to a low temperature below freezing point, such as -5°C, so that the condensed water 12 needs to be melted, but the condensed water can be obtained even from the low-humidity air.

[0069] Next, the chloride supply unit 13 and the electrode 14 will be described.

[0070] The chloride supply unit 13 and the electrode 14 constitute the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20, which adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 to a predetermined concentration. Specifically, in the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20, the chloride supply unit 13 supplies a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 15 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, and the electrode 14 electrolyzes the supplied chloride aqueous solution 15 to generate hypochlorous acid, thereby adjusting the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6.

[0071] The chloride supply unit 13 is a component that supplies the chloride aqueous solution 15 to the storage unit 5. The chloride supply unit 13 is provided on the outside of the storage unit 5 and is configured to introduce the chloride aqueous solution 15 into the storage unit 5 through an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting the internal space 5a. More specifically, the chloride supply unit 13 is configured to include a chloride tank 13a, a chloride pump 13b, and a pipe 13c.

[0072] Chloride tank 13a is a container that stores a pre-specified concentration of chloride aqueous solution 15 inside. Chloride tank 13a can supply chloride aqueous solution 15 to storage section 5 via pipe 13c through the operation of chloride pump 13b.

[0073] The chloride aqueous solution 15 can be any electrolyte capable of generating hypochlorous acid water through electrolysis, 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., as solutes can be used. In addition, potassium phosphate can be added to adjust the pH of the aqueous solution. In this embodiment, the chloride aqueous solution 15 is an aqueous solution obtained by adding potassium phosphate to a sodium chloride aqueous solution (salt water). Furthermore, it is desirable for the chloride aqueous solution 15 to have a high concentration of sodium chloride. By using a high-concentration chloride aqueous solution 15, the volume of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 can be supplied with chloride (chloride aqueous solution) without causing a large change in the volume of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6.

[0074] Chloride pump 13b is a component that, in response to an output signal from a control unit (not shown), feeds chloride aqueous solution 15 from chloride tank 13a to storage unit 5.

[0075] Pipe 13c is a component used to connect the chloride tank 13a to the storage section 5 (an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting the internal space 5a) via the chloride pump 13b, and to allow the chloride aqueous solution 15 to flow from the chloride tank 13a to the storage section 5.

[0076] The chloride supply section 13 is configured as described above.

[0077] Furthermore, the chloride supply unit 13 operates the chloride pump 13b, thereby supplying a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 15 from the chloride tank 13a to the storage unit 5 through the pipe 13c. This mixes the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 with the chloride aqueous solution 15.

[0078] Electrode 14 is a component used for electrolyzing an aqueous chloride solution 15, which is an aqueous solution containing chloride ions. Electrode 14 is disposed, for example, at the bottom of the storage section 5, submerged in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. Electrode 14 consists of a pair of anode and cathode, and is configured to have a catalyst coating on the surface of a conductive substrate. For example, titanium, tantalum, nickel, stainless steel, etc., can be used as the conductive substrate, but titanium, which has high resistance to hypochlorous acid corrosion, is preferred. Furthermore, the catalyst contained in the catalyst coating can be, for example, iridium, platinum group metals, etc. This allows the electrolysis reaction carried out by electrode 14 to be activated.

[0079] In electrode 14, chloride (chloride aqueous solution 15) is electrolyzed by flowing current between a pair of electrodes to generate hypochlorous acid. As a result, the mixed aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid 6 and chloride aqueous solution 15 stored in storage unit 5 is adjusted to a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 with a predetermined concentration. Here, the energizing time of electrode 14 is, for example, set to a time experimentally determined in advance based on the amount of chloride supplied to storage unit 5.

[0080] Next, the operating procedure of the hypochlorous acid water conditioning unit 20 will be explained.

[0081] In the hypochlorous acid water conditioning unit 20, in order to adjust the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 to a predetermined concentration, hypochlorous acid is supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 at constant intervals. That is, in the hypochlorous acid water conditioning unit 20, a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 15 is supplied by the chloride supply unit 13 and electrolysis is performed by the electrode 14 at constant intervals, as detailed later.

[0082] In the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20, firstly, after a constant time has elapsed, a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 15 is supplied from the chloride tank 13a to the storage unit 5 using the chloride pump 13b, thus supplying and mixing the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 with the chloride aqueous solution 15. Furthermore, in the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20, a current flows through the electrode 14, electrolyzing the chloride mixed in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, in other words, sodium chloride, and generating hypochlorous acid corresponding to the amount of sodium chloride supplied as chloride aqueous solution 15. This achieves a state equivalent to supplying hypochlorous acid to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6. That is, the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 (the concentration of hypochlorous acid) is adjusted using the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20. At this time, during the operation of the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20, the amount of chloride aqueous solution 15 supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 (the supply amount) can be controlled. It should be noted that the sodium chloride is electrolyzed, which raises the pH of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, but this is neutralized by the potassium phosphate contained in the chloride aqueous solution 15 and adjusted to the specified pH.

[0083] Next, the water level sensor 16 (full water sensor 16a, low water sensor 16b) will be explained.

[0084] The water level sensor 16 is a component that detects the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored inside the storage section 5, and includes a full water sensor 16a and a low water sensor 16b. The full water sensor 16a and the low water sensor 16b are respectively installed at a predetermined height inside the storage section 5.

[0085] The full water sensor 16a detects whether the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 is full (full water level). On the other hand, the low water sensor 16b detects whether the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 is low (low water level). It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the low water level is set to a water level of 700 mL, which is obtained by reducing the volume of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 6 (volume when full) by 30% from 1 L.

[0086] Furthermore, based on the water level information detected by the water level sensor 16, the supply of hypochlorous acid to the storage unit 5 by the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 is controlled. The detected water level information is used as an input signal for the control unit (not shown).

[0087] The sterilization device 2 is configured as described above.

[0088] Next, refer to Figure 4 The operation of the sterilization device 2 is explained. Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the operation flow of the sterilization device 2.

[0089] like Figure 4 As shown, the sterilization device 2 has a stop state where the air supply unit 7, water supply unit 11, and hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 (chloride supply unit 13, electrode 14) are stopped, and an operating state where the air supply unit 7 is activated. Here, Figure 4 The arrow R1 in the diagram indicates the transition from a stopped state to an operating state. Additionally, Figure 4 Arrow R4 in the diagram indicates the transition from the running state to the stopped state.

[0090] By setting the device to a stopped state (step S01), the sterilization device 2 can suppress the vaporization of hypochlorous acid from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and suppress the release of hypochlorous acid. However, hypochlorous acid not only vaporizes from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 to the bubbles 8, but also vaporizes directly from the liquid surface into the internal space 5a. Therefore, even in the stopped state, some hypochlorous acid vaporization and release will still occur.

[0091] On the other hand, by setting it to the operating state, the sterilization device 2 can release hypochlorous acid into the single-room space 1. In the operating state, hypochlorous acid and water vaporize from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, thus reducing the water volume and level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6.

[0092] More specifically, in operation, the sterilization device 2 basically performs standard operation (step S02). Here, standard operation refers to operation in which only the air supply unit 7 is activated and hypochlorous acid is released. That is, in standard operation, the water supply unit 11, the chloride supply unit 13, and the electrode 14 are not activated. Therefore, in standard operation, bubbles 8 are supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 through bubbling of the air supply unit 7, and as described above, air 4 containing hypochlorous acid is released from the air release unit 9 into the single-chamber space 1.

[0093] Subsequently, in step S02, standard operation is continuously performed, and the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 decreases from the full water level L1, when the low water sensor 16b (refer to) Figure 2 When the water level L2, which indicates a dry period (step S03), is detected, the sterilization device 2 activates the water supply unit 11, supplying condensed water 12 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 as part of the water supply operation (step S04). As a result, the water level L3 of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 rises. Furthermore, when the full water sensor 16a detects that the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 has reached the full water level L4 (the same level as L1) (step S05), the sterilization device 2 stops the operation of the water supply unit 11 and returns to standard operation (step S02).

[0094] In this way, the sterilization device 2 can maintain the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 within a constant range. Figure 4 Arrow R2 in the diagram represents the process of standard operation, detection of water level L2 by the low water sensor 16b, supply of condensate water 12 by the water supply unit 11, detection of water level L4 by the full water sensor 16a, and restoration to standard operation. It should be noted that throughout the series of processes represented by arrow R2, the operation of the air supply unit 7 and the accompanying release of air 4 containing hypochlorous acid are continuously performed.

[0095] On the other hand, the sterilization device 2 activates the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 after a constant period of time, supplying the chloride aqueous solution 15 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 via the chloride supply unit 13 and electrolyzing the supplied chloride via the electrode 14. More specifically, when standard operation is continuously performed in step S02 and a constant time (e.g., 1 hour) has elapsed (step S06), the sterilization device 2 activates the chloride supply unit 13 and supplies a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 15 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 as chloride introduction (step S07). Furthermore, the sterilization device 2 flows current in the electrode 14, electrolyzing (also called electrolysis) the sodium chloride mixed in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 to generate hypochlorous acid corresponding to the amount of sodium chloride supplied as chloride aqueous solution 15 (step S08). Thus, the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is supplied with hypochlorous acid and adjusted to a predetermined concentration. Here, the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied is a pre-experimentally estimated amount, equal to the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 during a constant time period. Furthermore, after the supply of hypochlorous acid by the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 is completed, the sterilization device 2 immediately stops the operation of the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 and returns to standard operation (step S02).

[0096] In this way, the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 can be maintained within a constant range. Furthermore, since the amount of water in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is controlled within a constant range, the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 can be maintained within a constant range. Figure 4 Arrow R3 indicates the process of standard operation, after a constant time, supply of chloride aqueous solution 15 by chloride supply unit 13, electrolysis by electrode 14, and restoration to standard operation. It should be noted that in the series of processes indicated by arrow R3, the operation of air supply unit 7 and the release of hypochlorous acid are continuously carried out.

[0097] By operating the sterilization device 2 as described above, the sterilization device 2 can maintain the amount of water in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 within a constant range, and continuously release hypochlorous acid into the single-chamber space 1.

[0098] According to the above, the sterilization device 2 of this embodiment 1-1 can enjoy the following effects.

[0099] (1) The sterilization device 2 includes: a storage section 5, which stores a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 of a predetermined concentration inside; an air supply section 7, which draws in air 3 from the outside (single-room space 1) and supplies it to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 as bubbles 8; an air release section 9, which releases the bubbles 8 floating in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 to the outside (single-room space 1) as air 4 containing hypochlorous acid gas; a water supply section 11, which cools the moisture contained in the outside air 3 and supplies it to the storage section 5 as condensation water 12; and a hypochlorous acid water adjustment section 20 (chloride supply section 13, electrode 14), which adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 to a predetermined concentration.

[0100] Therefore, when a small amount of air 3 is circulated as bubbles 8 in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 using the air supply unit 7, the small amount of bubbles 8 (circulating air) containing a large amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be released from the air release unit 9 to the outside (single-room space 1). At this time, the bubbles 8 (circulating air) into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 are suppressed to a small amount, thus suppressing the amount of water released from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 into the bubbles 8 (circulating air) to the outside (single-room space 1), and reducing the required water supply to the storage unit 5. As a result, the required water supply can be ensured by using the water supply unit 11 (the supply of condensed water 12 to the storage unit 5 by the water supply unit 11), without needing to connect the sterilization device 2 to an external water supply equipment for automatic water supply. That is, the sterilization device 2 can automatically supply water and release hypochlorous acid into the target space without making the device large.

[0101] (2) In the sterilization device 2, the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 is configured to include: a chloride tank 13a, which stores a chloride aqueous solution 15; a chloride pump 13b, which pumps the chloride aqueous solution 15 from the chloride tank 13a to the storage unit 5; and an electrode 14, which electrolyzes the chloride aqueous solution 15 pumped from the chloride pump 13b to generate hypochlorous acid. Thus, by mixing the chloride aqueous solution 15 with the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 and performing electrolysis, the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 can be easily adjusted to a predetermined concentration.

[0102] (3) In the sterilization device 2, the water supply unit 11 is configured to supply condensed water 12 to the storage unit 5 when the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 decreases by a predetermined amount. As a result, the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 in the storage unit 5 can be maintained within a predetermined range. Consequently, hypochlorous acid gas can be generated under predetermined conditions, and a stable release of hypochlorous acid by the sterilization device 2 can be achieved.

[0103] (4) In the sterilization device 2, the storage section 5 is supplied with condensed water 12 generated by repeated heat absorption and release by the Peltier element 11a. With this configuration, the condensed water 12 does not contain the scale components (calcium components, magnesium components) contained in tap water, so there is no accumulation of scale components that accompany continuous operation, and a drainage device that does not require drainage from the storage section 5 is available.

[0104] (5) In the sterilization device 2, there is no need to connect an external water supply device for automatic water supply and a drainage device for draining water from the storage unit 5, so the device can be miniaturized.

[0105] (6) In the sterilization device 2, the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 is configured to adjust the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 to a predetermined concentration at constant intervals. This allows the concentration of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, which decreases due to the release of hypochlorous acid, to be maintained within a predetermined range. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas can be generated under predetermined conditions, enabling stable hypochlorous acid release by the sterilization device 2.

[0106] (Implementation Methods 1-2)

[0107] Reference Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The sterilization device 2a of embodiments 1-2 of the present invention will be described. Figure 5 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device 2a according to embodiments 1-2 of the present invention.

[0108] The sterilization device 2a of Embodiments 1-2 of the present invention differs from that of Embodiment 1-1 in that it has an opening / closing part 21 configured to open and close the release port 9a of the air release part 9. Otherwise, the structure of the sterilization device 2a is the same as that of the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1. Hereinafter, the descriptions already given in Embodiments 1-1 will be omitted, and the differences from Embodiments 1-1 will be explained primarily.

[0109] like Figure 5 As shown, the sterilization device 2a includes an opening / closing part 21 configured to open and close the opening of the release port 9a of the air release part 9.

[0110] The opening / closing part 21 is a cover used to seal the release port 9a. The opening / closing part 21 is installed on the release port 9a and can be driven by a motor or the like. More specifically, the surface of the opening / closing part 21 relative to the release port 9a is formed of at least one flat plate of the same shape. The opening / closing part 21 can rotate freely about one side as an axis, and a stepper motor (not shown) is connected to the axis, allowing it to open and close according to the amount of rotation of the stepper motor. Furthermore, the opening / closing part 21 can switch between a blocked state where the release port 9a is sealed and air 4 does not flow from the air release section 9 to the single-chamber space 1, and an open state where the release port 9a is open and air 4 can flow from the air release section 9 to the single-chamber space 1. It should be noted that the opening / closing part 21 is connected to the control unit (not shown) wirelessly or via a wired connection.

[0111] Specifically, the opening and closing section 21, based on the control signal from the control section, operates in the stopped state of the sterilization device 2a. Figure 4 In step S01), the opening / closing unit 21 switches to a blocking state. That is, when the supply of bubbles 8 from the air supply unit 7 is stopped, the opening / closing unit 21 blocks the release port 9a. This prevents the release of hypochlorous acid from the sterilization device 2a into the single-chamber space 1. On the other hand, the opening / closing unit 21, in the operating state of the sterilization device 2a (… Figure 4 In steps S02 to S08), the device switches to the open state. That is, when the air supply unit 21 starts supplying the air bubbles 8 from the air supply unit 7, the release port 9a is opened. As a result, air 4 containing hypochlorous acid can be released from the sterilization device 2a toward the single-room space 1.

[0112] The sterilization device 2a according to Embodiments 1-2 can enjoy the following effects.

[0113] (7) The sterilization device 2a includes an opening / closing section 21 configured to open and close the release port 9a of the air release section 9. Furthermore, the opening / closing section 21 blocks the release port 9a when the supply of bubbles 8 from the air supply section 7 stops. Therefore, when the supply of bubbles 8 from the air supply section 7 stops, the release of hypochlorous acid vaporized from the surface of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 from the release port 9a of the air release section 9 to the outside (single-room space 1) can be suppressed. That is, a state where unnecessary hypochlorous acid is not released from the sterilization device 2 can be achieved. As a result, unnecessary consumption of hypochlorous acid when the sterilization device 2 stops operating can be suppressed.

[0114] (Implementation methods 1-3)

[0115] Reference Figure 6 The sterilization device 2b of embodiments 1-3 of the present invention will be described. Figure 6 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device 2b according to embodiments 1-3 of the present invention.

[0116] The sterilization device 2b of Embodiments 1-3 of the present invention differs from that of Embodiment 1-1 in that it has a hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 instead of a hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20. Otherwise, the structure of the sterilization device 2b is the same as that of the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1. Hereinafter, the descriptions already given in Embodiments 1-1 will be omitted, and the differences from Embodiments 1-1 will be explained.

[0117] like Figure 6 As shown, the sterilization device 2b replaces the hypochlorous acid water conditioning unit 20 and includes a hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23. It should be noted that the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 can also be referred to as the hypochlorous acid water conditioning unit.

[0118] Hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 is a component that supplies hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a to storage unit 5. By supplying a predetermined amount (e.g., 0.5 mL) of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a, hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in storage unit 5 to a predetermined concentration or higher. Here, hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a is hypochlorous acid water with a concentration higher than that of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, which is set as a predetermined concentration.

[0119] Hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 is provided on the outside of storage unit 5 and is configured to introduce hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a into storage unit 5 through an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting internal space 5a. More specifically, hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 is configured to include hypochlorous acid water tank 23a, hypochlorous acid water pump 23b, and pipe 23c.

[0120] Hypochlorous acid water tank 23a is a container that stores a pre-specified high-concentration hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a. Hypochlorous acid water tank 23a can supply hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a to storage section 5 through pipe 23c under the action of hypochlorous acid water pump 23b.

[0121] Hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a is hypochlorous acid water pre-generated by the electrolysis of brine (sodium chloride aqueous solution). Furthermore, it is desirable that the hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a has a high concentration of hypochlorous acid. By using the high-concentration hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a, hypochlorous acid water can be supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 without causing significant changes in the volume of the solution.

[0122] Hypochlorous acid water pump 23b is a component that, in response to an output signal from a control unit (not shown), delivers hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a from hypochlorous acid water tank 23a to storage unit 5.

[0123] Pipe 23c is a component used to connect hypochlorous acid water tank 23a to storage section 5 (an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting internal space 5a) via hypochlorous acid water pump 23b, and to allow hypochlorous acid water concentrate 15a to flow from hypochlorous acid water tank 23a to storage section 5.

[0124] Hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 is configured as described above.

[0125] Furthermore, the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 operates the hypochlorous acid water pump 23b, thereby supplying a predetermined amount of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a from the hypochlorous acid water tank 23a to the storage unit 5 through the pipe 23c. This mixes the hypochlorous acid water solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 with the hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a.

[0126] Next, refer to Figure 7 The operation of the sterilization device 2b is explained. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the operation flow of the sterilization device 2b.

[0127] like Figure 7 As shown, the sterilization device 2b has a stop state where the air supply unit 7, water supply unit 11, and hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 are stopped, and an operation state where the air supply unit 7 is activated. Here, Figure 7 The arrow R1 in the diagram indicates the transition from a stopped state to an operating state. Additionally, Figure 7 Arrow R4 in the diagram indicates the transition from the running state to the stopped state.

[0128] By setting the device to a stopped state (step S11), the sterilization device 2b can suppress the vaporization of hypochlorous acid from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and suppress the release of hypochlorous acid. However, hypochlorous acid not only vaporizes from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 to the bubbles 8, but also vaporizes directly from the liquid surface into the internal space 5a. Therefore, even in the stopped state, some hypochlorous acid vaporization and release still occur.

[0129] On the other hand, by setting it to the operating state, the sterilization device 2b can release hypochlorous acid into the single-chamber space 1. In the operating state, since hypochlorous acid and water vaporize from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, the water volume and level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, as well as the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6, decrease.

[0130] More specifically, in operation, the sterilization device 2b basically performs standard operation (step S12). Here, standard operation refers to operation in which only the air supply unit 7 is activated and hypochlorous acid is released. That is, in standard operation, the water supply unit 11 and the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 are not activated. Therefore, in standard operation, bubbles 8 are supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 through the bubbling of the air supply unit 7, and as described above, air containing hypochlorous acid 4 is released from the air release unit 9 into the single-chamber space 1.

[0131] Subsequently, in step S12, standard operation is continuously performed, and the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 decreases from the full water level L1. When the low water sensor 16b (refer to...) Figure 6When the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is detected to be at the low water level L2 (step S13), the sterilization device 2b activates the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 to supply a predetermined amount of hypochlorous acid water concentrate 15a, and activates the water supply unit 11 to supply condensed water 12 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 as part of the water supply operation (step S14). As a result, the water level L3 of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 rises. Furthermore, when the full water sensor 16a detects that the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 is at the full water level L4 (the same level as water level L1) (step S15), the sterilization device 2b stops the operation of the water supply unit 11 and returns to standard operation (step S12).

[0132] In this way, the sterilization device 2b can maintain the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 within a constant range. Figure 7 Arrow R2 in the diagram represents the process of standard operation, detection of water level L2 by low water sensor 16b, supply of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a by hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 and supply of condensate water 12 by water supply unit 11, detection of water level L4 by full water sensor 16a, and restoration to standard operation. It should be noted that in the series of processes represented by arrow R2, the operation of air supply unit 7 and the accompanying release of air 4 containing hypochlorous acid are continuously performed.

[0133] As described above, by operating the sterilization device 2b, the sterilization device 2b can maintain the volume of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and the concentration of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 at a specified concentration or above, and continuously release hypochlorous acid into the single-chamber space 1.

[0134] The sterilization device 2b according to embodiments 1-3 can enjoy the following effects.

[0135] (8) The sterilization device 2b includes: a storage section 5, which stores a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 of a predetermined concentration inside; an air supply section 7, which draws in air 3 from the outside (single-room space 1) and supplies it to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 as bubbles 8; an air release section 9, which releases the bubbles 8 floating in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 to the outside (single-room space 1) as air 4 containing hypochlorous acid gas; a water supply section 11, which cools the moisture contained in the outside air 3 and supplies it to the storage section 5 as condensation water 12; and a hypochlorous acid water supply section 23, which adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 to a predetermined concentration or higher.

[0136] Therefore, when a small amount of air 3 is circulated as bubbles 8 in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 using the air supply unit 7, the small amount of bubbles 8 (circulating air) can contain a large amount of hypochlorous acid gas and be released to the outside (single-room space 1) from the air release unit 9. At this time, since the bubbles 8 (circulating air) into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 are suppressed to a small amount, the amount of water released to the outside (single-room space 1) from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 by vaporizing into the bubbles 8 (circulating air) can be suppressed, reducing the amount of water required to supply to the storage unit 5. As a result, the required amount of water can be ensured by using the water supply unit 11 (the supply of condensed water 12 to the storage unit 5 by the water supply unit 11), without needing to connect the sterilization device 2b to an external water supply device for automatic water supply. That is, the sterilization device 2b can automatically supply water and release hypochlorous acid into the target space without increasing the size of the device.

[0137] (9) In the sterilization device 2b, the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 23 is configured to have a hypochlorous acid water tank 23a for storing the hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a and a hypochlorous acid water pump 23b for discharging the hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a from the hypochlorous acid water tank 23a to the storage unit 5. With this configuration, the hypochlorous acid water solution 6 can be easily adjusted to a predetermined concentration or higher by mixing the hypochlorous acid water solution 6 stored in the storage unit 5 with the hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a and the condensed water 12 from the water supply unit 11.

[0138] (10) In the sterilization device 2b, when the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 stored in the storage section 5 decreases by a predetermined amount, the water supply section 11 supplies condensate 12 to the storage section 5 in accordance with the supply of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a by the hypochlorous acid water supply section 23. This allows the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 in the storage section 5 to be maintained within a predetermined range. As a result, hypochlorous acid gas can be generated under predetermined conditions, enabling a stable release of hypochlorous acid by the sterilization device 2b.

[0139] The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to any of the above embodiments, and it is easy to deduce that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0140] In the sterilization device 2 of embodiment 1-1, a Peltier element 11a is used as the water supply unit 11, but it is not limited to this. For example, a heat pump device can also be used as the water supply unit 11. In this way, although the sterilization device itself is large, it can enjoy the effect of obtaining more condensed water 12 with less power consumption.

[0141] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1, hypochlorous acid is supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 by chloride electrolysis, but it is not limited to this. For example, hypochlorous acid can also be supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 by supplying an organochlorine agent such as sodium dichloroisocyanurate. According to this structure, hypochlorous acid can be supplied without using electrode 14, thus achieving low power consumption of the device.

[0142] Alternatively, in the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1, a sensor for measuring the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 may be included, and the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 may be controlled in accordance with the output of the sensor. Specifically, control is performed as follows: when the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 output by the sensor is lower than a predetermined value, the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 is activated; if the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 output by the sensor reaches the predetermined value, the hypochlorous acid water adjustment unit 20 is deactivated. This allows for more reliable control of the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 within a constant range.

[0143] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1, in step S04, only the condensed water 12 is supplied from the water supply unit 11 to the storage unit 5 as a water supply operation, but this is not a limitation. For example, the condensed water 12 supplied to the storage unit 5 may be in a state equivalent to supply water containing hypochlorous acid. Specifically, when supplying condensed water 12 by the water supply unit 11, a chloride aqueous solution 15 is supplied from the chloride supply unit 13 to make the amount of condensed water 12 supplied to the storage unit 5 (the difference between water level L1 and water level L2) into a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution of a predetermined concentration. Electrolysis is performed using the electrode 14 to make the chloride aqueous solution 15 supplied from the chloride supply unit 13 into hypochlorous acid for the specified time. Therefore, in step S05, supply water containing hypochlorous acid of a predetermined concentration is supplied when the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 reaches the full water level L4. That is, when returning to standard operation in step S02, a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 with a specified concentration range can be formed. Therefore, in the sterilization device 2 controlled as described above, air 4 containing a stable concentration of hypochlorous acid can be released into the single-room space 1.

[0144] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1, the water supply unit 11 is configured to cool the moisture contained in the air 3 outside (single-room space 1) and supply it as condensation water 12 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 in the storage unit 5, but it is not limited to this. For example, the water supply unit 11 may be provided in the internal space 5a of the storage unit 5 to cool the moisture contained in the air in the internal space 5a and supply it as condensation water 12. Even so, the above-mentioned effects can still be enjoyed.

[0145] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 2 of Embodiment 1-1, bubbles 8 are circulated in a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 6 and released as air 4 containing hypochlorous acid, but this is not a limitation. In a modified example, for example, a solution containing sterilizing components, such as chlorite water, ozone water, or hydrogen peroxide water, may be used as the solution stored in the storage section 5. During the circulation of bubbles 8 in the solution containing sterilizing components, the bubbles 8 contain gases containing sterilizing components, such as chlorine gas, ozone gas, or hydrogen peroxide gas, and are released as air 4. Even so, sterilization of a single-room space 1 can be performed.

[0146] Specifically, the modified sterilization device includes: a storage section 5 that stores a solution containing a prescribed concentration of sterilizing ingredients; an air supply section 7 that draws in external air 3 and supplies it as bubbles 8 to the solution containing sterilizing ingredients; an air release section 9 that releases the bubbles 8 floating in the solution containing sterilizing ingredients as air 4 containing sterilizing ingredients; a water supply section 11 that cools the moisture contained in the air and supplies it as condensation water 12 to the storage section 5; and a solution concentration adjustment section that adjusts the solution containing sterilizing ingredients stored in the storage section 5 to a prescribed concentration. Here, the solution concentration adjustment section supplies a solution containing a relatively high concentration of sterilizing ingredients to the solution containing sterilizing ingredients stored in the storage section 5 in accordance with the amount of condensation water 12 supplied from the water supply section 11.

[0147] Therefore, when a small amount of air 3 is circulated as bubbles 8 in the liquid containing the disinfectant using the air supply unit 7, the small amount of bubbles 8 (circulating air) containing a large amount of gas containing the disinfectant can be released from the air release unit 9 to the outside (single-room space 1). At this time, since the bubbles 8 (circulating air) into the liquid containing the disinfectant are suppressed to a small amount, the amount of water released from the liquid containing the disinfectant into the bubbles 8 (circulating air) and released to the outside (single-room space 1) can be suppressed, reducing the amount of water required to supply to the storage unit 5. As a result, the required amount of water can be ensured by using the water supply unit 11 (the supply of condensed water 12 to the storage unit 5 by the water supply unit 11), without needing to connect the disinfection device to an external water supply device for automatic water supply. That is, the disinfection device can automatically supply water without increasing the size of the device, and can release gas containing the disinfectant into the target space.

[0148] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 2b of embodiments 1-3, the hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a is hypochlorous acid water pre-generated by electrolysis of brine (sodium chloride aqueous solution), but it is not limited to this. For example, hypochlorous acid water generated by electrolysis of hydrochloric acid or hypochlorous acid water generated by dissolving sodium dichloroisocyanurate in water can also be used. Even so, the above-mentioned effects can still be enjoyed.

[0149] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 2b of embodiments 1-3, when the low water level sensor 16b detects that the water level in the storage section 5 has reached the low water level L2, the hypochlorous acid water supply section 23 is activated to supply a predetermined amount of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a. However, it is not necessary to supply hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a every time a low water level is detected. For example, it is also possible to supply a predetermined amount of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last supply of hypochlorous acid water stock solution 15a and the low water level sensor 16b detects the low water level L2. In this way, the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied to the storage section 5 at a predetermined time can be controlled, and the amount of hypochlorous acid released into the target space at each predetermined time can be controlled.

[0150] (Implementation Method 2)

[0151] Previously, as devices for sterilizing living spaces and reducing the risk of infection, there are known vaporization devices that release hypochlorous acid by vaporizing an aqueous hypochlorous acid solution, or ultrasonic devices that spray an aqueous hypochlorous acid solution (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0152] In conventional sterilization devices such as vaporization or ultrasonic sterilization devices, the amount of water released into the living space in conjunction with the release of hypochlorous acid is relatively large, thus requiring a large water supply. Consequently, it is necessary to connect to external water supply equipment to achieve automatic water supply, which leads to the problem of larger sterilization devices.

[0153] The purpose of this invention is to provide a sterilization device that can automatically supply water and efficiently distribute hypochlorous acid throughout the target space without making the device large-scale.

[0154] The sterilization device of the present invention comprises: a storage section that stores an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid of a predetermined concentration; an air supply section that draws in external air and supplies it as bubbles to the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid; an air release section that releases bubbles floating in the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid as air containing hypochlorous acid gas; a water supply section that cools the moisture contained in the external air and supplies it to the storage section as condensate; a hypochlorous acid generation section that adjusts the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid stored in the storage section to a predetermined concentration; a mixing section that mixes the air containing hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release section with the external air; and a blowing section that blows the mixed air mixed in the mixing section to the outside.

[0155] The sterilization device according to the present invention can provide an automatic water supply without increasing the size of the device, and can efficiently distribute hypochlorous acid throughout the target space.

[0156] To reiterate, the sterilization device of the present invention comprises: a storage section that stores an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid of a predetermined concentration; an air supply section that draws in external air and supplies it as bubbles to the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid; an air release section that releases bubbles floating in the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid as air containing hypochlorous acid gas; a water supply section that cools the moisture contained in the external air and supplies it to the storage section as condensate; a hypochlorous acid generation section that adjusts the aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid stored in the storage section to a predetermined concentration; a mixing section that mixes the air containing hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release section with the external air; and a blowing section that blows the mixed air mixed in the mixing section to the outside.

[0157] According to this structure, when a small amount of air is circulated as bubbles in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution using the air supply section, the small amount of bubbles (circulating air) containing a large amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be supplied from the air release section to the mixing section. At this time, since the bubbles (circulating air) into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution are suppressed to a small amount, the amount of water released to the outside from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution by vaporization into the bubbles (circulating air) can be suppressed, thereby reducing the amount of water required to supply to the storage section.

[0158] Furthermore, by drawing in external air and mixing it in a mixing section with air containing hypochlorous acid gas supplied from an air release section, and then blowing it out from a blow-out section into the target space, the airflow from the sterilization device can be increased without increasing the circulating air in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. Therefore, the amount of water vaporized from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution can be suppressed, and hypochlorous acid can be efficiently diffused into the target space. In other words, the required water supply to the storage section can be suppressed, and hypochlorous acid can be efficiently diffused into the target space.

[0159] As a result, the required water supply can be ensured using the water supply unit (which supplies condensed water to the storage unit), eliminating the need for a connection to an external water supply system for automatic water supply. Furthermore, by increasing the airflow from the sterilization unit, hypochlorous acid can be efficiently diffused into the target space. In other words, the sterilization unit can provide automatic water supply without requiring a large-scale installation, and can efficiently distribute hypochlorous acid throughout the target space.

[0160] Furthermore, the sterilization device of the present invention also includes an intake section for drawing in external air. An air supply section draws in a portion of the external air drawn in from the intake section and supplies it as bubbles to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. A mixing section mixes the air containing hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release section with the remaining portion of the external air. Thus, the mixing ratio of the air in the mixing section can be easily adjusted to maintain a constant airflow from the sterilization device.

[0161] Furthermore, the sterilization device of the present invention also includes: an air supply section disposed within an air passage communicating with a mixing section, which supplies external air to the mixing section through the air passage; and a filter section disposed within the air passage, which removes foreign matter contained in the air flowing through the air passage. The air supply section is disposed downstream of the filter section. With this structure, by operating the air supply section, air with foreign matter removed by the filter section can flow through the air passage. That is, by disposing of the air supply section downstream of the filter section, the inflow of foreign matter into the air supply section can be suppressed.

[0162] Furthermore, in the sterilization device of the present invention, the air supply unit is configured to have an air pump that draws in a portion of the external air flowing in the air path, and the air pump is located downstream of the filter unit. In this way, the air supply unit can use the air pump to deliver air, from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter unit, into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the mixing of foreign matter into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution, suppress the accumulation of foreign matter in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution, and eliminate the need for a drainage device that requires drainage from the storage unit.

[0163] Furthermore, in the sterilization device of the present invention, the water supply unit is provided within the air duct. This allows condensed water to be obtained from the air from which dirt has been removed by the filtration unit, thus suppressing dirt contained in the condensed water supplied to the storage unit. Consequently, the accumulation of dirt in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution within the storage unit can be suppressed, eliminating the need for a drainage device that requires no drainage from the storage unit.

[0164] Furthermore, in the sterilization device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid generating unit is configured to include: a tank storing an aqueous chloride solution; a pump delivering the aqueous chloride solution from the tank to the storage unit; and an electrode electrolyzing the aqueous chloride solution pumped out to generate hypochlorous acid. According to this structure, by mixing the aqueous chloride solution with the hypochlorous acid solution stored in the storage unit and performing electrolysis, the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution can be easily adjusted to a predetermined concentration.

[0165] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are merely examples embodying the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the invention. Furthermore, the figures described in the embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in the figures may not reflect the actual size ratios.

[0166] Implementation 2 includes at least the following Implementation 2-1 and Implementation 2-2.

[0167] (Implementation Method 2-1)

[0168] First, refer to Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The general outline of the sterilization device 102 of this embodiment 2-1 will be described. Figure 8This is a schematic side view showing an example of the installation of the sterilization device 102 in a single-room space 101 according to Embodiment 2-1 of the present invention. Figure 9 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device 102. Figure 10A as well as Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the water supply unit 111 in the sterilization device 102. Here, Figure 10A This is a top-view summary of the state of the water supply unit 111 as observed from above. Figure 10B This is a summary side view of the state of the water supply unit 111 as observed from the side.

[0169] like Figure 8 As shown, the sterilization device 102 is positioned at a predetermined height on the wall of the single-room space 101. The sterilization device 102 draws in air 103 from the single-room space 101, adds hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) to the drawn-in air 103 (air 103a), and mixes it with similarly drawn-in air 103 (air 103b) to release hypochlorous acid-containing air 104 into the single-room space 101. As a result, the single-room space 101 is sterilized using the released air 104 (hypochlorous acid-containing air 104). In other words, the sterilization device 102 can be described as a device that sterilizes the single-room space 101 by releasing hypochlorous acid. It should be noted that the installation location of the sterilization device 102 in the single-room space 101 is not limited as long as it can be connected to an external power source.

[0170] The private room 101 is a space used by users for business discussions or rest, and is constructed of walls and doors. A table or chair may also be placed in the private room 101. Additionally, an air conditioning unit (for cooling and heating) may be installed in the private room 101.

[0171] Air 103 is air drawn into the sterilization device 102 from the single-room space 101. Figure 8 The arrows, indicated by the reference numerals "103a" and "103b", show the main airflow of air 103 (air 103a, air 103b). Air 103a is air supplemented with hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas), and air 103b is air supplemented with hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) (see reference 103c). Figure 9 (The mixture of air, details to follow.)

[0172] Air 104 is air blown from the sterilization device 102 into the single-room space 101. Figure 8 The arrow, indicated by the reference numeral "104", shows the main airflow of air 104. Air 104 contains hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) generated inside the sterilization device 102, as detailed later.

[0173] Next, the specific structure of the sterilization device 102 will be described.

[0174] like Figure 9 As shown, the sterilization device 102 is configured to include a storage section 105, an air supply section 107, an air release section 109, a separator 110, a water supply section 111, a chloride supply section 113, an electrode 114, a water level sensor 116 (full water sensor 116a, low water sensor 116b) and a housing 117.

[0175] The storage section 105 is a container that stores the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 internally. The storage section 105 has a quadrangular prism shape, and the external dimensions of the air release section 109 are, for example, a width of 246 mm, a depth of 66 mm, and a height of 115 mm. It should be noted that the storage section 105 can also be described as the shell that constitutes the outer frame of the sterilization device 102.

[0176] The storage section 105 forms an internal space 105a above the surface of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 when the solution is full. Furthermore, inlets for introducing condensed water 112 from the water supply section 111 and for introducing chloride aqueous solution 115 from the chloride supply section 113 are respectively provided on the side walls of the container constituting the internal space 105a. Additionally, an air supply section 107 and an electrode 114 are provided at the bottom of the storage section 105, submerged in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Furthermore, water level sensors 116 (full water sensor 116a, low water sensor 116b) for detecting the water level of the stored hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 are provided at predetermined positions in the storage section 105. Additionally, an opening (not shown) for communication and connection with the air release section 109 is provided on the upper surface (upper end) of the storage section 105.

[0177] Hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is an aqueous solution containing hypochlorous acid generated by electrolyzing the chloride aqueous solution 115 (described later). Hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 has the function of containing hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) inside the bubbles 108 supplied from the air supply unit 107 as they flow through the liquid due to buoyancy. Therefore, by increasing or decreasing the concentration of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the bubbles 108 can be increased or decreased. Furthermore, by setting the hydrogen ion concentration (pH) of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 to a level of 5-7, hypochlorous acid can be easily vaporized from hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the bubbles 108. Additionally, by increasing the distance the bubbles 108 rise due to buoyancy (the distance the bubbles 108 travel in hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106), the contact time between hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and bubbles 108 is increased, thereby increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in bubbles 108. Therefore, in this embodiment, the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is set to approximately 100 mg / L, the pH of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is set to approximately 7, and the capacity (capacity when full) of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored internally is set to approximately 1 L based on the outer diameter of the storage section 105. It should be noted that the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is adjusted to be several times higher than the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution used in conventional sterilization devices such as vaporization or ultrasonic sterilization devices.

[0178] The air supply unit 107 is a component that draws in air 103a from the single-chamber space 101 and supplies the drawn-in air 103a as bubbles 108 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. More specifically, the air supply unit 107 is configured to include an air stone 107a, an air pump 107b, and an air pipe 107c.

[0179] The air stone 107a is a stone (e.g., a stone made of porous ceramic or porous synthetic resin) that causes air 103a, which is introduced from the air pump 107b via the air tube 107c, to become fine bubbles and be released as bubbles 108 into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. The air stone 107a is disposed at the bottom of the storage section 105 in a state of being submerged in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106.

[0180] The air pump 107b is disposed outside the storage section 105. Furthermore, the air pump 107b is a component that draws in air 103a from the single-chamber space 101 through an intake port (not shown) and pressurizes it to deliver it to the air stone 107a.

[0181] The air pipe 107c is a component used to connect the air stone 107a and the air pump 107b and to allow air 103a discharged from the air pump 107b to flow to the air stone 107a. The air pipe 107c is provided to pass through the side wall of the storage section 105.

[0182] The air supply unit 107 is configured as described above.

[0183] Furthermore, in the air supply unit 107, by controlling the amount of air 103a supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and the size (diameter) of the generated bubbles 108, the amount of hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas) contained in the air 104 released from the air release unit 109 to the single-room space 101 can be adjusted.

[0184] Specifically, in the air supply section 107, if the supply amount of air 103a to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 increases, the corresponding amount (number) of bubbles 108 generated increases, thereby increasing the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the air 104 released from the air release section 109. Furthermore, in the air supply section 107, by reducing the size (diameter) of the bubbles 108 released to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, the rising speed of the floating bubbles 108 can be reduced, thus increasing the contact time between the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and the bubbles 108. Moreover, by reducing the size (diameter) of the bubbles 108, the contact area between the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and the bubbles 108 flowing in the liquid can be increased compared to the case where the size (diameter) of the bubbles 108 is larger. As a result, the amount of hypochlorous acid taken into the bubbles 108 as they float in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 increases, which can increase the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the air 104 released from the air release section 109.

[0185] Here, the supply rate of air 103a from the air supply unit 107 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 can be controlled by the air discharge rate of the air pump 107b. Furthermore, the size (diameter) of the bubbles 108 can be controlled by the size of the pores of the air stone 107a (and the air discharge rate of the air pump 107b). Based on these factors, in this embodiment, the supply rate of air 103a from the air supply unit 107 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is set to 0.1 m. 3 The size (diameter) of the bubbles 108 generated in the gas stone 107a is set to 1 mm to 2 mm.

[0186] Bubble 108 is air 103a drawn in from the single-chamber space 101 by the air supply unit 107 (air stone 107a) and finely condensed into bubbles, becoming air trapped within the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Bubble 108 released from the air supply unit 107 rises to the surface while drawing in hypochlorous acid (and moisture) contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Bubble 108 then bursts and disappears upon reaching the surface of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Furthermore, the air within bubble 108, along with the hypochlorous acid (and moisture) contained within it, mixes with the air in the internal space 105a. The air in the internal space 105a (air containing hypochlorous acid) is then supplied as air 103c from the air release unit 109 to the mixing unit 121.

[0187] The air release unit 109 is a component that connects the storage unit 105 to the housing 117 and releases hypochlorous acid-containing air (air within the internal space 105a) from the storage unit 105 as air 103c from the supply port 109a to the mixing section 121 of the housing 117. The air release unit 109 is provided on the upper surface of the storage unit 105. Furthermore, the air release unit 109 has a separator 110.

[0188] The separator 110 is a component that removes water droplets and other debris generated when bubbles 108 break at the liquid surface in the storage section 105. The separator 110 is a porous body that allows air to pass through and is installed inside the air release section 109. It should be noted that the separator 110 collects water droplets contained in the air passing through it, and therefore can also be described as a water droplet remover. Thus, in the sterilization device 102, water droplets can be prevented from being released from the air release section 109 into the mixing section 121.

[0189] The housing 117 is a component that mixes air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas supplied from the air release unit 109 with external air 103b and releases it as air 104. The housing 117 is provided on the upper surface of the air release unit 109. An opening is provided on the side wall of the housing 117, which communicates with the supply port 109a of the air release unit 109. Thus, air 103c from the air release unit 109 is supplied into the housing 117.

[0190] More specifically, the housing 117 is configured to have an intake section 118, an exhaust section 119, a mixing section 121, and an air supply section 122.

[0191] The suction section 118 is an opening for the housing 117 to communicate with the outside, and is also an intake port for taking in air 103b from the outside (single space 101) into the sterilization device 102.

[0192] The blowout section 119 is an opening for the housing 117 to communicate with the outside, and is a blowout outlet for supplying air 104 containing hypochlorous acid gas from the sterilization device 102 to the single-room space 101.

[0193] The intake section 118 and the exhaust section 119 are connected by an internal air passage 124 of the housing 117. Furthermore, the supply port 109a of the air release section 109 is connected to the internal air passage 124. It should be noted that the internal air passage 124 is equivalent to the "air passage" in the technical solution.

[0194] The mixing section 121 is a space for mixing air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas supplied from the air release section 109 with air 103b taken in from the intake section 118. The space within the housing 117 where air 103c and air 103b merge is called the mixing section 121. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas mixed in the mixing section 121 is blown out as air 104 from the outlet section 119 into the single-chamber space 101 through the housing 117. It should be noted that air 104 corresponds to the "mixed air" in the technical solution.

[0195] The air supply section 122 is a fan for circulating air within the housing 117 and is disposed within the internal air passage 124 of the housing 117. By operating the air supply section 122, air 103b can be drawn in from the intake section 118, and in the mixing section 121, the air 103b drawn in from the intake section 118 is mixed with the air 103c supplied from the air release section 109, and then blown out as air 104 from the outlet section 119.

[0196] The water supply unit 111 is a component that cools the moisture contained in the air 103 outside (single-room space 101) and supplies it as condensation water 112 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 in the storage unit 105. The water supply unit 111 is provided on the outside of the storage unit 105 and is configured to introduce condensation water 112 into the storage unit 105 through an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting the internal space 105a.

[0197] Specifically, such as Figure 10A as well as Figure 10B As shown, the water supply unit 111 is configured to include a Peltier element 111a, a radiator 111b1, a radiator 111b2, a heat dissipation fan 111c, and a guide member 111d.

[0198] The Peltier element 111a is a type of plate-shaped semiconductor thermoelectric element (electronic component) that utilizes the Peltier effect. When a direct current flows in a certain direction, the Peltier element 111a absorbs heat (cools) on one side and releases heat (heats) on the other side. Furthermore, when the direction of the direct current is changed, the heat-absorbing (cooling) and heat-releasing (heating) surfaces of the Peltier element 111a are interchanged. In this embodiment, a Peltier element 111a with dimensions of 40 mm in width and 40 mm in height is used.

[0199] Heat sinks 111b1 and 111b2 are components bonded to various surfaces of the Peltier element 111a and facilitate heat absorption and release by the Peltier element 111a. Since the heat-absorbing and heat-releasing surfaces of the Peltier element 111a change periodically, heat sinks 111b1 and 111b2 perform both heat absorption and heat release. In this embodiment, heat sinks 111b1 and 111b2 are made of aluminum and are constructed with multiple heat-releasing fins arranged in a sword-like shape, having an outer diameter of 40 mm in width, 20 mm in depth, and 40 mm in height.

[0200] The heat dissipation fan 111c is a component used to blow air and cool the heat sink 111b1 or 111b2, which are on the heat dissipation side, thereby promoting the heat dissipation by the Peltier element 111a. Therefore, the heat dissipation fan 111c is configured to blow air across both the heat sink 111b1 and the heat sink 111b2.

[0201] The guide member 111d is a component that forms a water passage guiding the condensate 112 dripping from the radiator 111b1 or radiator 111b2 to the storage section 105. For example... Figure 10B As shown, the guide 111d is disposed across the radiator 111b1 and radiator 111b2 in the vertical direction below, and is connected to the inlet (not shown) provided on the side wall of the storage section 105.

[0202] Next, the operating procedures of the Water Supply Department 111 will be explained.

[0203] In the water supply section 111, a direct current flows in a certain direction through the Peltier element 111a, thereby absorbing heat in the radiator 111b1 and releasing heat in the radiator 111b2. This causes the radiator 111b1 to reach a temperature of -5°C and the radiator 111b2 to reach a temperature of 45°C. As a result, the temperature of the air 103 near the radiator 111b1 (the heat-absorbing side) drops below freezing, causing moisture in the air 103 to condense. Furthermore, a heat-dissipating fan 111c blows air to the radiator 111b2 (and the radiator 111b1). This cools the radiator 111b2 (the heat-dissipating side), promoting heat release by the Peltier element 111a. After a certain period of time, the radiator 111b1 (the heat-absorbing side) becomes covered with a certain amount of condensed water.

[0204] After a predetermined time, the direction of the direct current flowing in the Peltier element 111a is reversed, thereby reversing the heat-absorbing and heat-releasing surfaces of the Peltier element 111a. As a result, heat is released in the radiator 111b1, and the temperature of the radiator 111b1 reaches approximately 45°C. Conversely, heat is absorbed in the radiator 111b2, and the temperature of the radiator 111b2 reaches approximately -5°C. Consequently, the condensed water 112 adhering to the radiator 111b1 melts and drips directly downwards. Meanwhile, moisture in the air 103 condenses and solidifies in the radiator 111b2. Subsequently, the heat-absorbing and heat-releasing surfaces of the Peltier element 111a are reversed at constant intervals, allowing condensation, solidification, and melting to repeatedly occur in the radiators 111b1 and 111b2 as described above, causing the condensed water 112 to drip down. Furthermore, the dripping condensate 112 is caught by the guide 111d and guided and supplied to the storage section 105.

[0205] Through this action, the water supply unit 111 is able to supply the condensed water 112 to the storage unit 105. Here, the temperature of the air 103 is set to a low temperature below freezing point, such as -5°C, so that the condensed water 112 needs to be melted, but the condensed water can be obtained even from the low-humidity air.

[0206] Next, the chloride supply unit 113 and the electrode 114 will be described.

[0207] The chloride supply unit 113 and the electrode 114 constitute the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120, and adjust the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage unit 105 to a predetermined concentration. Specifically, in the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120, the chloride supply unit 113 supplies a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 115 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, and the electrode 114 electrolyzes the supplied chloride aqueous solution 115 to generate hypochlorous acid, thereby adjusting the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106.

[0208] The chloride supply unit 113 is a component that supplies the chloride aqueous solution 115 to the storage unit 105. The chloride supply unit 113 is located on the outside of the storage unit 105 and is configured to introduce the chloride aqueous solution 115 into the storage unit 105 via an inlet provided in the side wall of the container constituting the internal space 105a. More specifically, the chloride supply unit 113 is configured to include a chloride tank 113a, a chloride pump 113b, and a pipe 113c.

[0209] Chloride tank 113a is a container that stores a pre-specified concentration of chloride aqueous solution 115 inside. Chloride tank 113a can supply chloride aqueous solution 115 to storage section 105 via pipe 113c by the operation of chloride pump 113b.

[0210] The chloride aqueous solution 115 can be any electrolyte capable of generating hypochlorous acid water through electrolysis. 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., as solutes can be used. Additionally, potassium phosphate can be added to adjust the pH of the aqueous solution. In this embodiment, the chloride aqueous solution 115 is an aqueous solution obtained by adding potassium phosphate to a sodium chloride aqueous solution (salt water). Furthermore, a high concentration of sodium chloride is desirable in the chloride aqueous solution 115. By using a high-concentration chloride aqueous solution 115, the volume of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is not significantly changed, thus allowing chloride (chloride aqueous solution) to be supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106.

[0211] Chloride pump 113b is a component that, in response to an output signal from a control unit (not shown), feeds chloride aqueous solution 115 from chloride tank 113a to storage unit 105.

[0212] Pipe 113c is a component used to connect chloride tank 113a to storage section 105 (an inlet provided on the side wall of the container constituting internal space 105a) via chloride pump 113b, and to allow chloride aqueous solution 115 to flow from chloride tank 113a to storage section 105.

[0213] The chloride supply section 113 is configured as described above.

[0214] Furthermore, the chloride supply unit 113 operates the chloride pump 113b, thereby supplying a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 115 from the chloride tank 113a to the storage unit 105 through the pipe 113c. This mixes the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage unit 105 with the chloride aqueous solution 115.

[0215] Electrode 114 is a component used for electrolyzing an aqueous chloride solution 115, which is an aqueous solution containing chloride ions. Electrode 114 is disposed, for example, at the bottom of the storage section 105, submerged in an aqueous hypochlorous acid solution 106. Electrode 114 consists of a pair of anode and cathode, and is configured to have a catalyst coating on the surface of a conductive substrate. For example, titanium, tantalum, nickel, stainless steel, etc., can be used as the conductive substrate, but titanium, which has high resistance to hypochlorous acid corrosion, is preferred. Furthermore, the catalyst contained in the catalyst coating can be, for example, iridium, platinum group metals, etc. This allows the electrolysis reaction carried out by electrode 114 to be activated.

[0216] In electrode 114, by flowing current between a pair of electrodes, chloride (chloride aqueous solution 115) is electrolyzed to generate hypochlorous acid. As a result, the mixed aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid 106 and chloride aqueous solution 115 stored in storage unit 105 is adjusted to a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 with a predetermined concentration. Here, the energizing time of electrode 114 is, for example, set to a time experimentally determined in advance based on the amount of chloride supplied to storage unit 105.

[0217] Next, the operation process of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 120 will be explained.

[0218] In the hypochlorous acid generation unit 120, in order to adjust the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage unit 105 to a predetermined concentration, hypochlorous acid is supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 at constant time intervals. That is, in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 120, a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 115 is supplied by the chloride supply unit 113 and electrolysis is performed by the electrode 114 at constant time intervals, as detailed later.

[0219] In the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120, firstly, after a constant time has elapsed, a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 115 is fed from the chloride tank 113a to the storage unit 105 using the chloride pump 113b, supplying and mixing the chloride aqueous solution 115 with the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Furthermore, in the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120, a current flows through the electrode 114, electrolyzing the chloride mixed in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, in other words, sodium chloride, and generating hypochlorous acid corresponding to the amount of sodium chloride supplied as chloride aqueous solution 115. This achieves a state equivalent to supplying hypochlorous acid to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. That is, the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 (the concentration of hypochlorous acid) is adjusted using the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120. At this time, during the operation of the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120, the amount of chloride aqueous solution 115 supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 (the supply amount) can be adjusted, thereby controlling the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. It should be noted that the sodium chloride is electrolyzed, which raises the pH of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, but this is neutralized by the potassium phosphate contained in the chloride aqueous solution 115 and adjusted to the specified pH.

[0220] Next, the water level sensor 116 (full water sensor 116a, low water sensor 116b) will be described.

[0221] The water level sensor 116 is a component that detects the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored inside the storage section 105, and includes a full water sensor 116a and a low water sensor 116b. The full water sensor 116a and the low water sensor 116b are respectively installed at a predetermined height inside the storage section 105.

[0222] The full water sensor 116a detects whether the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage section 105 is full (full water level). On the other hand, the low water sensor 116b detects whether the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage section 105 is low (low water level). It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the low water level is set to a water level of 700 mL, which is 30% lower than the volume of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 at the full water level (volume at full water level) of 1 L.

[0223] Furthermore, the water level sensor 116 controls the supply of hypochlorous acid from the hypochlorous acid generation unit 120 to the storage unit 105 based on the detected water level information. The detected water level information is used as an input signal for the control unit (not shown).

[0224] The sterilization device 102 is configured as described above.

[0225] Next, refer to Figure 11 The operation of the sterilization device 102 will be explained. Figure 11This is a diagram showing the operation flow of the sterilization device 102.

[0226] like Figure 11 As shown, the sterilization device 102 has a stop state in which the air supply unit 107, the air supply unit 122, the water supply unit 111, and the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 (chloride supply unit 113, electrode 114) are stopped, and an operating state in which the air supply unit 107 and the air supply unit 122 are activated. Here, Figure 11 The arrow R11 indicates the transition from a stopped state to an operating state. Additionally, Figure 11 Arrow R14 in the diagram indicates the transition from the running state to the stopped state.

[0227] By setting the device to a stopped state (step S01), the sterilization device 102 can suppress the vaporization of hypochlorous acid from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and suppress the release of hypochlorous acid. However, hypochlorous acid not only vaporizes from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 to the bubbles 108, but also directly vaporizes from the liquid surface from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 into the internal space 105a. Therefore, even in the stopped state, some hypochlorous acid vaporization and release still occur.

[0228] On the other hand, by setting it to the operating state, the sterilization device 102 can release hypochlorous acid into the single-room space 101. In the operating state, hypochlorous acid and water vaporize from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, thereby reducing the water volume and level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106.

[0229] More specifically, in operation, the sterilization device 102 basically performs standard operation (step S02). Here, standard operation refers to the operation in which the air supply unit 107 and the air supply unit 122 are activated and hypochlorous acid is released. That is, in standard operation, the water supply unit 111, the chloride supply unit 113, and the electrode 114 are not activated. Therefore, in standard operation, bubbles 108 are supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 by bubbling in the air supply unit 107, and hypochlorous acid-containing air 103c is supplied from the air release unit 109 to the mixing unit 121. Furthermore, under the action of the air supply unit 122, the hypochlorous acid-containing air 103c is mixed with the air 103b taken in from the suction unit 118 in the mixing unit 121, and is released as air 104 from the blow-out unit 119 to the single-chamber space 101.

[0230] Subsequently, in step S02, standard operation is continuously performed, and the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 decreases from the full water level L11, when the low water sensor 116b (refer to) Figure 9When the water level L12, which indicates a dry period (step S03), is detected, the sterilization device 102 activates the water supply unit 111, supplying condensate 112 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 as part of the water supply operation (step S04). As a result, the water level L13 of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 rises. Furthermore, when the full water sensor 116a detects that the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 has reached the full water level L14 (the same level as L11) (step S05), the sterilization device 102 stops the operation of the water supply unit 111 and returns to standard operation (step S02).

[0231] In this way, the sterilization device 102 can maintain the amount of hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage section 105 within a constant range. Figure 11 Arrow R12 in the diagram represents the process of standard operation, detection of water level L12 by the low water sensor 116b, supply of condensate water 112 by the water supply unit 111, detection of water level L14 by the full water sensor 116a, and restoration to standard operation. It should be noted that in the series of processes represented by arrow R12, the operation of the air supply unit 107 and the air supply unit 122, along with the accompanying release of air 104 containing hypochlorous acid, is continuously performed.

[0232] On the other hand, the sterilization device 102 activates the hypochlorous acid generation unit 120 after a constant time interval, supplying the chloride aqueous solution 115 from the chloride supply unit 113 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, and electrolyzing the supplied chloride via the electrode 114. More specifically, in step S02, standard operation is continuously performed. After a constant time (e.g., 1 hour) (step S06), the sterilization device 102 activates the chloride supply unit 113 and supplies a predetermined amount of chloride aqueous solution 115 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 as chloride introduction (step S07). Furthermore, the sterilization device 102 flows current in the electrode 114, electrolyzing (also called electrolysis) the sodium chloride mixed in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 to generate hypochlorous acid corresponding to the amount of sodium chloride supplied as chloride aqueous solution 115 (step S08). Thus, hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is supplied with hypochlorous acid to the aqueous solution and is adjusted to a predetermined concentration. Here, the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied is a pre-experimentally estimated amount, and is equal to the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 during a constant time period. Furthermore, after the supply of hypochlorous acid by the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 is completed, the sterilization device 102 immediately stops the operation of the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 and returns to standard operation (step S02).

[0233] In this way, the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 can be maintained within a constant range. In addition, since the amount of water in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 is controlled within a constant range, the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 can be maintained within a constant range. Figure 11 Arrow R13 indicates the process of standard operation, after a constant time, supply of chloride aqueous solution 115 by chloride supply unit 113, electrolysis by electrode 114, and restoration to standard operation. It should be noted that in the series of processes indicated by arrow R13, the operation of air supply unit 107 and air supply unit 122 and the release of hypochlorous acid are continuously carried out.

[0234] As described above, by operating the sterilization device 102, the sterilization device 102 can maintain the amount of water in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and the amount of hypochlorous acid contained in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 within a constant range, and continuously release hypochlorous acid into the single-chamber space 101.

[0235] The sterilization device 102 according to Embodiment 2-1 can enjoy the following effects.

[0236] (1) The sterilization device 102 includes: a storage section 105, which stores a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 of a predetermined concentration; an air supply section 107, which draws in air 103a from the outside (single room space 101) and supplies it to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 as bubbles 108; an air release section 109, which releases the bubbles 108 floating in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 as air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas; and a water supply section 111, which cools the moisture contained in the air from the outside (single room space 101). The hypochlorous acid is generated and supplied to the storage unit 105 as condensate 112; the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 (chloride supply unit 113, electrode 114) adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 stored in the storage unit 105 to a predetermined concentration; the mixing unit 121 mixes the air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release unit 109 with the air 103b from the outside (single room space 101); and the blowing unit 119 blows the air 104 mixed in the mixing unit 121 to the outside (single room space 101).

[0237] Therefore, when a small amount of air 103 is circulated as bubbles 108 in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 using the air supply unit 107, the small amount of bubbles 108 (circulating air) containing a large amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be supplied from the air release unit 109 to the mixing unit 121. At this time, the bubbles 108 (circulating air) to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 are suppressed to a small amount, thus suppressing the amount of water released to the outside (single-room space 101) from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 vaporized into the bubbles 108 (circulating air), thereby reducing the amount of water required to supply to the storage unit 105.

[0238] Furthermore, external air 103b is drawn in and mixed in the mixing section 121 with air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas supplied from the air release section 109, and then blown out from the blowing section 119 into the target space (single-room space 101). Therefore, without increasing the circulating air in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, the blowing volume from the sterilization device 102 can be increased. Thus, the amount of water vaporized from the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 can be suppressed, and hypochlorous acid can be efficiently diffused into the target space (single-room space 101). That is, the required water supply to the storage section 105 can be suppressed, and hypochlorous acid can be efficiently diffused into the target space (single-room space 101).

[0239] As a result, the required water supply can be ensured by utilizing the water supply unit 111 (which supplies condensed water 112 to the storage unit 105), eliminating the need to connect the sterilization device 102 to an external water supply system for automatic water supply. Furthermore, by increasing the airflow from the sterilization device 102, hypochlorous acid can be efficiently diffused into the target space (single room space 101). In other words, the sterilization device 102 can provide automatic water supply without requiring a large-scale device, and can efficiently distribute hypochlorous acid throughout the target space (single room space 101).

[0240] (2) In the sterilization device 102, the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 (chloride supply unit 113, electrode 114) is configured to include: a chloride tank 113a storing an aqueous chloride solution 115; a chloride pump 113b supplying the aqueous chloride solution 115 from the chloride tank 113a to the storage unit 105; and an electrode 114 electrolyzing the aqueous chloride solution 115 supplied by the chloride pump 113b to generate hypochlorous acid. With this configuration, the aqueous hypochlorous acid solution 106 can be easily adjusted to a predetermined concentration by mixing the aqueous chloride solution 115 with the hypochlorous acid solution 106 stored in the storage unit 105 and performing electrolysis.

[0241] (Implementation Method 2-2)

[0242] Reference Figure 12 The sterilization device 102a of Embodiment 2-2 of the present invention will be described. Figure 12 This is a schematic side view showing the structure of the sterilization device 102a according to Embodiment 2-2 of the present invention.

[0243] The sterilization device 102a of Embodiment 2-2 of the present invention differs from that of Embodiment 2-1 in that the internal air passage 124a of the housing 117a is expanded and an air pump 107b, a water supply unit 111, and a filter unit 123 are arranged in the internal air passage 124a of the housing 117a. Apart from this, the structure of the sterilization device 102a is the same as that of the sterilization device 102 of Embodiment 2-1. Hereinafter, the descriptions already given in Embodiment 2-1 will be omitted, and the differences from Embodiment 2-1 will be mainly explained.

[0244] like Figure 12 As shown, in the sterilization device 102a, an air pump 107b of the air supply unit 107, a water supply unit 111, an air supply unit 122, and a filter unit 123 are respectively arranged in the air passage 124a inside the housing 117a.

[0245] The internal air passage 124a is an air passage inside the housing 117a that connects the intake section 118a and the exhaust section 119. Furthermore, the supply port 109a of the air release section 109 is connected to the internal air passage 124a in the same manner as the internal air passage 124. It should be noted that the internal air passage 124a is equivalent to the "air passage" in the technical solution.

[0246] The filter 123 is a filter for removing dirt or foreign matter from the air 103 taken in from the intake 118a, and is disposed near the intake 118a in the internal air passage 124a.

[0247] The air supply section 122 is located downstream of the filter section 123 and upstream of the mixing section 121 in the internal air passage 124a. Therefore, the air 103, having passed through the filter section 123 and had impurities removed, flows through the air supply section 122, thus preventing the introduction of foreign matter into the air supply section 122. Furthermore, the air supply section 122 is not easily affected by hypochlorous acid gas, thus preventing corrosion or deterioration of the air supply section 122 due to hypochlorous acid gas.

[0248] The air pump 107b is positioned downstream of the filter section 123 and upstream of the mixing section 121 in the internal air passage 124a. Therefore, the air pump 107b can draw in less contaminated air 103a after passing through the filter section 123 and supply it to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Furthermore, the air pump 107b is not easily affected by hypochlorous acid gas, thus preventing corrosion or deterioration of the air pump 107b due to hypochlorous acid gas.

[0249] The water supply unit 111 is located downstream of the filter unit 123 and upstream of the mixing unit 121 in the internal air passage 124a. Therefore, the water supply unit 111 can obtain condensed water 112 from air with less impurities or dirt after passing through the filter unit 123, and thus can supply the condensed water 112 with less impurities or dirt to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. Furthermore, the water supply unit 111 is not easily affected by hypochlorous acid gas, thus preventing corrosion or deterioration of the water supply unit 111 due to hypochlorous acid gas.

[0250] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the internal air passage 124a of the housing 117a is provided with a filter 123, an air supply 122, an air pump 107b, a water supply 111, and a mixing 121 in sequence from the upstream side.

[0251] Next, the flow of air 103 drawn in from the suction unit 118a during the operation of the sterilization device 102a will be explained.

[0252] In the sterilization device 102a, when the air supply unit 107 and the air supply unit 122 are activated, the air 103 from the outside (single room space 101) is drawn into the housing 117a (internal air passage 124a) from the intake unit 118a.

[0253] Furthermore, the air 103 drawn in from the intake section 118a flows through the filter section 123. As a result, dirt or foreign matter contained in the air 103 is removed. The air 103 is cleaned.

[0254] The air 103 that has flowed through the filter section 123 flows through the air supply section 122.

[0255] Furthermore, a portion (air 103a) of the air 103 circulating in the air supply section 122 is drawn in by the air pump 107b of the air supply section 107. The remaining portion (air 103b) of the air 103 circulating in the air supply section 122 flows as is toward the mixing section 121 in the internal air passage 124a.

[0256] The air 103a drawn in by the air pump 107b becomes bubbles 108 through the bubbling of the air stone 107a and is supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106. It is then sent from the air release section 109 as air 103c containing hypochlorous acid to the mixing section 121.

[0257] Furthermore, the hypochlorous acid-containing air 103c delivered to the mixing section 121 mixes with the air 103b flowing in the internal air passage 124a, and is released from the outlet section 119 to the single-room space 101 as hypochlorous acid-containing air 104.

[0258] As described above, the sterilization device 102a draws in air 103 from the outside (single room 101) and circulates the drawn-in air 103 as air 103a and air 103b inside, and finally releases it to the outside (single room 101) as air 104 containing hypochlorous acid.

[0259] In addition to the effects (1) and (2) of Embodiment 2-1, the sterilization device 102a according to Embodiment 2-2 can also enjoy the following effects.

[0260] (3) The sterilization device 102a includes an intake section 118a that draws in air 103 from the outside (single-room space 101). Furthermore, the air pump 107b of the air supply section 107 draws in a portion (air 103a) of the air 103 drawn in from the intake section 118a and supplies it as bubbles 1081 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. The air release section 109 releases air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas generated from the bubbles 108. The mixing section 121 mixes the air 103c containing hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release section 109 with the remaining portion (air 103b) of the air 103. Thus, the mixing ratio of the two types of air (air 103c, air 103b) in the mixing section 121 can be easily adjusted while maintaining a constant airflow from the sterilization device 102a (exhaust section 119).

[0261] (4) The sterilization device 102a includes: an air supply section 122 disposed in an internal air passage 124a (housing 117a) communicating with a mixing section 121, which allows external air 103 (in the single-chamber space 101) to circulate in the internal air passage 124a and be supplied to the mixing section 121; and a filter section 123 disposed in the internal air passage 124a, which removes foreign matter contained in the air 103 (air 103a, air 103b) circulating in the internal air passage 124a. Furthermore, the air supply section 122 is disposed downstream of the filter section 123 and upstream of the mixing section 121. Therefore, by operating the air supply section 122, the air 103, from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter section 123, can circulate in the internal air passage 124a. That is, by disposing of the air supply section 122 downstream of the filter section 123, the inflow of foreign matter into the air supply section 122 can be suppressed.

[0262] Furthermore, since the air supply section 122 is located upstream of the mixing section 121, the possibility of the air supply section 122 being exposed to hypochlorous acid gas flowing in the internal air passage 124a is reduced, thereby suppressing corrosion or deterioration of the air supply section 122 caused by hypochlorous acid gas.

[0263] (5) In the sterilization device 102a, the air supply unit 107 is configured to have an air pump 107b that draws in a portion (air 103a) of the air 103 flowing in the internal air passage 124a. Furthermore, the air pump 107b is located downstream of the filter unit 123 and upstream of the mixing unit 121. In this way, the air supply unit 107 can draw in the air 103a, from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter unit 123, and deliver it to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 using the air pump 107b. Therefore, the mixing of foreign matter into the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 can be suppressed, the accumulation of foreign matter in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 can be suppressed, and a drainage device that does not require drainage from the storage unit 105 can be used.

[0264] Furthermore, since the air pump 107b is located upstream of the mixing section 121, the possibility of the air pump 107b being exposed to hypochlorous acid gas flowing in the internal air passage 124a is reduced, thereby suppressing corrosion or deterioration of the air pump 107b caused by hypochlorous acid gas.

[0265] (6) In the sterilization device 102a, the water supply unit 111 is located downstream of the filter unit 123 and upstream of the mixing unit 121 in the internal air passage 124a. This allows condensed water 112 to be obtained from the air from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter unit 123, thus suppressing foreign matter contained in the condensed water 112 supplied to the storage unit 105. Therefore, the accumulation of foreign matter in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 within the storage unit 105 can be suppressed, eliminating the need for a drainage device that requires no drainage from the storage unit 105.

[0266] Furthermore, since the water supply section 111 is located upstream of the mixing section 121, the possibility of the water supply section 111 being exposed to hypochlorous acid gas flowing in the internal air passage 124a is reduced, thereby suppressing corrosion or deterioration of the water supply section 111 caused by hypochlorous acid gas.

[0267] The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments in any way, and it is easy to deduce that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0268] In the sterilization devices 102 and 102a of Embodiment 2, a Peltier element 111a is used as the water supply unit 111, but it is not limited to this. For example, a heat pump device can also be used as the water supply unit 111. In this way, although the sterilization device itself is large, it can enjoy the effect of obtaining more condensed water 112 with less power consumption.

[0269] Furthermore, in the sterilization apparatus 102 and sterilization apparatus 102a of Embodiment 2, hypochlorous acid is supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 by chloride electrolysis, but this is not a limitation. For example, hypochlorous acid can also be supplied to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 by supplying an organochlorine agent such as sodium dichloroisocyanurate. According to this structure, hypochlorous acid can be supplied without using electrode 114, thus achieving low power consumption of the apparatus.

[0270] Alternatively, in the sterilization devices 102 and 102a of Embodiment 2, a sensor may be included to measure the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106, and the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 may be controlled in accordance with the output of the sensor. Specifically, control is performed as follows: when the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 output by the sensor is lower than a predetermined value, the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 is activated; if the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 output by the sensor reaches the predetermined value, the hypochlorous acid generating unit 120 is stopped. This allows for more reliable control of the concentration of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 within a constant range.

[0271] Furthermore, in the sterilization apparatus 102 and sterilization apparatus 102a of this embodiment, in step S04, only the condensed water 112 is supplied from the water supply unit 111 to the storage unit 105 as part of water supply operation, but this is not a limitation. For example, the condensed water 112 supplied to the storage unit 105 may be in a state equivalent to supply water containing hypochlorous acid. Specifically, when supplying condensed water 112 by the water supply unit 111, a chloride aqueous solution 115 is supplied from the chloride supply unit 113 to make the amount of condensed water 112 supplied to the storage unit 105 (the amount of water between water level L11 and water level L12) into a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution of a predetermined concentration. Furthermore, the time required for electrolysis to make the chloride aqueous solution 115 supplied from the chloride supply unit 113 into hypochlorous acid is performed using the electrode 114. Therefore, in step S05, when the water level of the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 reaches the full water level L14, supply water containing a predetermined concentration of hypochlorous acid is supplied. That is, when returning to standard operation in step S02, a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 with a predetermined concentration range can be formed. Therefore, in the sterilization devices 102 and 102a controlled as described above, air 104 containing a stable concentration of hypochlorous acid can be released into the single-room space 101.

[0272] Furthermore, in the sterilization device 102 of Embodiment 2-1, the water supply unit 111 is configured to cool the moisture contained in the air 103 outside (single room space 101) and supply it as condensation water 112 to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 in the storage unit 105, but it is not limited to this. For example, the water supply unit 111 may be provided in the internal space 105a of the storage unit 105, and the moisture contained in the air in the internal space 105a may be cooled and supplied as condensation water 112. Even so, the above-mentioned effects can be enjoyed.

[0273] Furthermore, in the sterilization devices 102 and 102a of Embodiment 2, bubbles 108 are circulated in a hypochlorous acid aqueous solution 106 and released as air 104 containing hypochlorous acid, but this is not a limitation. In a modified example, for instance, a solution containing sterilizing components, such as chlorite water, ozone water, or hydrogen peroxide water, may be used as the solution stored in the storage section 105. During the circulation of bubbles 108 in the solution containing sterilizing components, the bubbles 108 contain gases containing sterilizing components, such as chlorine gas, ozone gas, or hydrogen peroxide gas, and are released as air 104. Even so, sterilization of a single-room space 101 can be performed.

[0274] Industrial applicability

[0275] In the sterilization device of the embodiments of the present invention, automatic water supply can be performed without making the device large-scale, and hypochlorous acid can be released into the target space, so it is useful as a device for sterilizing single rooms and the like.

[0276] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0277] 1: Single-room space; 2: Sterilization device; 2a: Sterilization device; 2b: Sterilization device; 3: Air; 4: Air; 5: Storage section; 5a: Internal space; 6: Hypochlorous acid aqueous solution; 7: Air supply section; 7a: Air stone; 7b: Air pump; 7c: Air pipe; 8: Bubble; 9: Air release section; 9a: Release port; 10: Separator; 11: Water supply section; 11a: Peltier element; 11b1: Radiator; 11b2: Radiator; 11c: Heat dissipation fan; 11d: Guide component; 12: Condensate; 13: Chloride supply. Supply section, 13a: Chloride tank, 13b: Chloride pump, 13c: Pipe, 14: Electrode, 15: Chloride aqueous solution, 15a: Hypochlorous acid water stock solution, 16: Water level sensor, 16a: Full water sensor, 16b: Low water sensor, 20: Hypochlorous acid water adjustment section, 21: Opening and closing section, 23: Hypochlorous acid water supply section, 23a: Hypochlorous acid water tank, 23b: Hypochlorous acid water pump, 23c: Pipe, 101: Single room space, 102: Sterilization device, 102a: Sterilization device, 103: Air, 103a: Air, 10 3b: Air, 103c: Air, 104: Air, 105: Storage section, 105a: Internal space, 106: Hypochlorous acid aqueous solution, 107: Air supply section, 107a: Air stone, 107b: Air pump, 107c: Air pipe, 108: Bubble, 109: Air release section, 109a: Supply port, 110: Separator, 111: Water supply section, 111a: Peltier element, 111b1: Radiator, 111b2: Radiator, 111c: Heat dissipation fan, 111d: Guide component, 112: Condensation Water, 113: Chloride supply unit, 113a: Chloride tank, 113b: Chloride pump, 113c: Pipe, 114: Electrode, 115: Chloride aqueous solution, 116: Water level sensor, 116a: Full water sensor, 116b: Low water sensor, 117: Housing, 117a: Housing, 118: Suction unit, 118a: Suction unit, 119: Exhaust unit, 120: Hypochlorous acid generation unit, 121: Mixing unit, 122: Air supply unit, 123: Filter unit, 124: Internal air passage, 124a: Internal air passage.

Claims

1. A sterilization device, wherein, The sterilization device includes: The storage section contains an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid of a specified concentration. An air supply unit draws in outside air and supplies it as bubbles to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. An air release unit that releases air containing hypochlorous acid gas as bubbles that float in the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. A water supply unit cools the moisture contained in the external air and supplies it to the storage unit as condensation. The hypochlorous acid generation unit adjusts the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution stored in the storage unit to the specified concentration; A mixing section that mixes the air containing the hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release section with the external air; The blowing section blows the mixed air that has been mixed in the mixing section outwards; as well as The intake section draws in the external air. The air supply unit draws in a portion of the external air drawn in by the intake unit and supplies it as bubbles to the hypochlorous acid aqueous solution. The mixing section mixes the air containing the hypochlorous acid gas released from the air release section with the remaining portion of the external air.

2. The sterilization device according to claim 1, wherein, The sterilization device also includes: An air supply unit is provided in an air duct that communicates with the mixing unit, and allows external air to circulate in the air duct and be supplied to the mixing unit. as well as A filter unit is disposed within the air duct and removes foreign matter contained in the air flowing through the air duct. The air supply section is located downstream of the filter section and upstream of the mixing section.

3. The sterilization device according to claim 2, wherein, The air supply unit is configured to have an air pump that draws in a portion of the external air flowing in the air passage. The air pump is located downstream of the filter section and upstream of the mixing section.

4. The sterilization device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The water supply unit is located downstream of the filter unit and upstream of the mixing unit within the air duct.

5. The sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The hypochlorous acid generating unit is configured to include: a tank for storing an aqueous chloride solution; a pump for delivering the aqueous chloride solution from the tank to the storage unit; and an electrode for electrolyzing the aqueous chloride solution delivered by the pump to generate hypochlorous acid.

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