Fine bubble generator and cleaning equipment

Abstract

A fine bubble generator is provided with: a main body part having a flow path connecting an inlet part and an outlet part and allowing a liquid to pass therethrough; and a collision part which is provided on the outlet part side, divides the flow path into a plurality of parts in the radial direction with respect to the center of the flow path, and generates fine bubbles in the liquid.

Description

[0001] The present invention is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application number 202380048345.1 filed by the present applicant on October 2, 2023, and the invention name is “Micro-bubble generator and cleaning equipment”. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a fine bubble generator and a cleaning device. Background Art

[0003] Conventionally, there is known a microbubble generator that can generate microbubbles by partially reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​a flow path through which liquid such as water flows, thereby rapidly reducing the pressure of the liquid passing through the flow path and thereby causing dissolved air in the liquid to precipitate.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-23936 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, in the conventional configuration, there is room for improvement in efficiently generating fine bubbles while suppressing a decrease in flow rate.

[0009] Therefore, a fine bubble generator capable of efficiently generating fine bubbles while suppressing a decrease in flow rate and a cleaning apparatus including the fine bubble generator are provided.

[0010] Means for solving problems

[0011] The microbubble generator of the embodiment comprises: a main body having a flow path connecting an inlet and an outlet and through which liquid can pass; and a collision portion, which is provided on the outlet side and divides the flow path into a plurality of parts in a radial direction relative to the center of the flow path and generates microbubbles in the liquid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing an example of the drum-type washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing an example of a state where the fine bubble generator according to the first embodiment is assembled into a water filling box.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a state where a flow path member is removed from the micro-bubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a flow path member is removed from the micro-bubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The X5-X5 line shows a cross-sectional view of the microbubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 is another example of the collision portion of the first embodiment. Figure 5 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0018] Figure 7 The micro-bubble generator of the first embodiment is enlarged and shown along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a portion cut along line X7-X7.

[0019] Figure 8 It is the collision part of the existing structure and Figure 5 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0020] Fig. 9 is a comparative example showing the collision portion of the first embodiment. Figure 5 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0021] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing the results of a simulation on the influence of differences in the configuration of the collision portion on the amount of fine bubble generation and the flow rate.

[0022] Fig.11 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing another example of a state in which the fine bubble generator according to the first embodiment is assembled into a water filling box.

[0023] Fig.12 An example of a collision portion according to the second embodiment is shown. Figure 5 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0024] Fig.13 is another example of the collision portion of the second embodiment. Figure 5 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0025] Fig.14 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing an example in which a microbubble generator is provided on the upstream side of a water supply valve in accordance with the third embodiment.

[0026] Fig.15 This is a diagram of the microbubble generator according to the fourth embodiment as viewed from the upstream side.

[0027] Fig.16 The fourth embodiment of the micro-bubble generator is enlarged and shown along Fig.15A cross-sectional view of a portion cut along line X16-X16.

[0028] Fig.17 This is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the collision portion according to the fourth embodiment (part 1).

[0029] Fig.18 This is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the collision portion according to the fourth embodiment (part 2).

[0030] Fig.19 It is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the collision portion according to the fourth embodiment (Part 3).

[0031] Fig. 20 is an example of a collision portion according to the fifth embodiment. Fig.17 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0032] Fig.21 is an example of a collision portion according to the sixth embodiment. Fig.17 Comparative cross-sectional view.

[0033] Fig. 22 This is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing an example of a dishwasher according to the seventh embodiment.

[0034] Fig.23 This is a top view schematically showing an example of a flush toilet device according to the eighth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Hereinafter, multiple embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each embodiment, substantially the same elements are marked with the same symbols, and the description is omitted. In addition, in each embodiment, the statements 1, 2, ... added to the constituent elements are only used to distinguish similar constituent elements, and do not mean the superiority or inferiority of the constituent elements or the time factor.

[0036] (First embodiment)

[0037] First, regarding the first embodiment, refer to Figures 1 to 11 An example in which the fine bubble generator is applied to a washing machine as a cleaning device will be described. Figure 1The washing machine 10 shown is a drum-type washing machine in which the rotating axis of the rotary drum 14 is oriented in the horizontal direction, or an inclined axis type that is inclined downward and inclined toward the rear. The washing machine is not limited to a drum-type washing machine, and may also be a longitudinal axis type washing machine in which the rotating axis of the rotary drum is oriented in the vertical direction. The washing machine 10 may or may not have a heater-type or heat pump-type drying function, for example. In addition, the washing machine 10 may also be provided with an automatic treatment agent injection device that can automatically inject detergents, finishing agents, and other washing treatment agents. The automatic treatment agent injection device has a treatment agent tank that can store the amount of washing treatment agent used in multiple washing operations, and is a device that can automatically inject a specified amount of washing treatment agent from the treatment agent tank into the water tub during each washing operation.

[0038] The washing machine 10 includes an outer box 11, a door 12, a water storage tub 13, a rotary tub 14, a motor 15, a drainage mechanism 16, and a water injection device 20. In addition, although the washing machine 10 is not shown in detail, it includes a well-known operation panel and a control device. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the installation surface side of the washing machine 10, that is, the vertical lower side, is set as the lower side of the washing machine 10, and the side opposite to the installation surface, that is, the vertical upper side, is set as the upper side of the washing machine 10. Figure 1 The left side of the paper, that is, the door 12 side relative to the outer box 11 is set as the front side of the washing machine 10. Figure 1 The right side of the paper, that is, the opposite side of the door 12 of the outer box 11 is set as the rear side of the washing machine 10.

[0039] The outer box 11 is formed as a whole into a rectangular hollow box shape by combining metal such as a stainless steel plate or a resin material, for example. The outer box 11 constitutes the outer contour of the washing machine 10. In addition, the outer box 11 has an opening 111 on the front side that connects the inside of the outer box 11 with the outside. The door 12 is provided on the front side of the outer box 11 to open and close the opening 111. When the door 12 is opened, the user can put in or take out clothes from the rotary drum 14 through the opening 111.

[0040] The water storage tub 13 and the rotary tub 14 are both formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape. The water storage tub 13 can store water inside. The water storage tub 13 is arranged in the outer box 11 and is elastically supported by a suspension not shown. The rotary tub 14 is rotatably arranged in the water storage tub 13 and is driven to rotate by a motor 15. The motor 15 is provided outside the bottom of the water storage tub 13 and has a function of driving the rotary tub 14 to rotate relative to the water storage tub 13.

[0041] The drain mechanism 16 is used to drain the water in the water tub 13 to the outside of the washing machine 10. The drain mechanism 16 can be configured to include a drain valve 161 and a drain hose 162. The drain valve 161 is configured to be electromagnetically openable and closable. One end of the drain hose 162 is connected to the drain valve 161, and the other end is led to the outside of the washing machine 10. When the drain valve 161 is opened in a state where water is stored in the water tub 13, the water stored in the water tub 13 is discharged to the outside of the washing machine 10 through the drain hose 162. That is, the drain valve 161 opens and closes the drainage path for discharging the water stored in the water tub 13 to the outside.

[0042] The water injection device 20 is used to inject water supplied from an external water source such as a water pipe into the water storage tub 13. The water injection device 20 includes a water supply valve 21, a water injection box 22, a water injection hose 23, and a fine bubble generator 30. The water supply valve 21 is configured to be electromagnetically opened and closed. The water supply valve 21 opens and closes the path from the external water source to the water storage tub 13 via the water injection box 22. Figure 2 As shown, the water supply valve 21 has an inflow portion 211 and an outflow portion 212. The inflow portion 211 is connected to an external water source such as a faucet of a water pipe (not shown) via a water supply hose 100. The outflow portion 212 is connected to the water filling box 22, for example.

[0043] The water filling box 22 has the function of receiving water supplied from an external water source and supplying the water to the water storage tub 13 via the water filling hose 23. The water filling box 22 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and can be formed into a box shape that is long along the front-to-back direction of the washing machine 10. The water filling box 22 is configured to store detergents, softeners, and other washing treatment agents. Figure 2 As shown, the water filling box 22 has a connection portion 221 and a communication portion 222. The connection portion 221 and the communication portion 222 connect the inside and the outside of the water filling box 22. The connection portion 221 is formed in a cylindrical shape having a step on the inner peripheral surface, for example.

[0044] The connection part 221 connects the water supply valve 21 with the water filling box 22. The water after passing through the water supply valve 21 flows into the water filling box 22 through the connection part 221. Figure 2 As shown, the outflow portion 212 of the water supply valve 21 is directly connected to the connection portion 221. Direct connection means that no other components are interposed between the components connected to each other. A sealing component 24 is provided between the outer peripheral surface of the outflow portion 212 and the inner peripheral surface of the connection portion 221. The sealing component 24 is composed of, for example, an O-ring made of synthetic resin. The sealing component 24 is pressed by the outer peripheral surface of the outflow portion 212 and the inner peripheral surface of the connection portion 221, and the outflow portion 212 and the connection portion 221 are connected in a watertight state.

[0045] The connecting portion 222 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape having a substantially constant inner diameter. The inner diameter of the connecting portion 222 is, for example, smaller than the inner diameter of the connecting portion 221. The connecting portion 222 is located at a position closer to the downstream side than the connecting portion 221. In other words, the connecting portion 221 is located at a position closer to the upstream side than the connecting portion 222. The downstream side refers to the downstream side of the direction in which water supplied from an external water source flows. The upstream side refers to the upstream side of the direction in which water supplied from an external water source flows.

[0046] The water injection hose 23 is used to inject water flowing from an external water source into the water injection box 22 into the water storage tub 13. Figure 1 As shown, one end of the water filling hose 23 is connected to the water filling box 22, and the other end is connected to the water storage tub 13. In a state where detergent is stored in the water filling box 22, when water flows into the water filling box 22, the detergent in the water filling box 22 is mixed with the water flowing in the water filling box 22, and then flows into the water storage tub 13 through the water filling hose 23.

[0047] The fine bubble generator 30 has the following function: when liquid such as water supplied from an external water source flows toward Figure 2 When the liquid passes through the interior of the fine bubble generator 30 in the direction of arrow A, fine bubbles including ultrafine bubbles are generated in the liquid. Ultrafine bubbles are bubbles with a particle size of 50nm to less than 1,000nm. Ultrafine bubbles have a small particle size, so they can penetrate into intricate parts, for example, they can play a cleaning effect on objects that cannot be completely removed by other fine bubbles such as micron bubbles. In addition, ultrafine bubbles have the following properties: the particle size is nanometer-level, the buoyancy is small, the hydrophobicity is large, and it is difficult to dissolve in water, so the retention time in the liquid is long.

[0048] The fine bubble generator 30 is disposed on the downstream side of the water supply valve 21 and inside the water filling box 22. Figure 2 As shown, the fine bubble generator 30 is installed in a state of being supported between the outflow portion 212 and the connecting portion 221. The fine bubble generator 30 is installed, for example, in a state of being sandwiched between the outflow portion 212 and the connecting portion 221. A sealing member 25 is provided between the outer peripheral surface of the fine bubble generator 30 and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 221. The sealing member 25 is composed of, for example, an O-ring made of synthetic resin. The sealing member 25 is pressed by the outer peripheral surface of the fine bubble generator 30 and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 221, so that the fine bubble generator 30 and the connecting portion 221 are connected in a watertight state. In addition, the fine bubble generator 30 may also be a structure that is fixed relative to the outflow portion 212 and the connecting portion 221 by being pressed.

[0049] The fine bubble generator 30 is made of synthetic resin, for example, and has a diameter and a total length of, for example, several millimeters to several tens of millimeters. Specifically, the maximum diameter is about 15 mm, and the length is set to about 10 mm. Figure 2 As shown, the fine bubble generator 30 is formed into a cylindrical shape having a flange, for example. The fine bubble generator 30 includes a main body 40, a flow path component 50, and a collision portion 60. The main body 40 is located on the upstream side of the fine bubble generator 30, and the flow path component 50 is located on the downstream side of the fine bubble generator 30. The main body 40 and the flow path component 50 are configured to be able to be separated and combined with each other. The main body 40 and the flow path component 50 are not limited to being separated, and can also be configured as an integral body.

[0050] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the main body 40 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape having a step on the outer circumferential surface. The main body 40 has an inlet 41, an outlet 42 and a flow path 43. The inlet 41 and the outlet 42 are formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The inlet 41 is a portion through which water flows from the outside of the main body 40 to the inside. Water from an external water source passing through the water supply valve 21 is introduced into the main body 40 through the inlet 41. The outlet 42 is a portion through which water flows out from the inside of the main body 40 to the outside. The inner diameter of the outlet 42 is smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet. In this embodiment, the outlet 42 is connected to the flow path component 50. The water introduced into the main body 40 flows from the outlet 42 into the water filling box 22 via the flow path component 50, and then merges with the detergent in the water filling box 22 and is supplied to the water holding tub 13.

[0051] The flow path 43 is arranged inside the main body 40, connecting the inlet 41 and the outlet 42, and the liquid can pass through. The flow path 43 is composed of a throttling portion 431 and a straight portion 432. The throttling portion 431 and the straight portion 432 are arranged throughout the entire circumference of the inner circumference of the main body 40. The throttling portion 431 is arranged on the inflow side, that is, the upstream side of the main body 40. The throttling portion 431 is connected to the inlet 41 and is arranged between the inlet 41 and the outlet 42. The throttling portion 431 is formed so that the cross-sectional area, that is, the inner diameter of the flow path 43 is gradually reduced in the middle part of the direction extending from the inlet 41 to the main body 40. In the present embodiment, the throttling portion 431 is formed into a so-called truncated cone-shaped tapered tube in which the cross-sectional area, that is, the inner diameter of the flow path 43 is continuously and gradually reduced. The throttling portion 431 can also be a structure in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 is gradually reduced in a step-like manner. In addition, the throttle portion 431 may be formed integrally with the main body portion 40 or may be formed separately.

[0052] The straight portion 432 is arranged on the downstream side of the throttling portion 431. The straight portion 432 is connected to the outlet portion 42. The straight portion 432 is formed into a cylindrical shape whose inner diameter does not change, that is, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43, that is, the area through which the liquid can pass, does not change, that is, a so-called straight tube shape. The inner diameter of the straight portion 432 is set to be substantially the same as the minimum inner diameter of the throttling portion 431. In addition, the inner diameter of the straight portion 432 is set to be substantially the same as the inner diameter of the connecting portion 222 of the water injection box 22. In the present embodiment, the inner diameter of the straight portion 432 is set to be approximately 3 mm.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the flow path component 50 is formed, for example, into a cylindrical shape having a step on the inner circumferential surface, and has a flow path 51 inside. The total length of the flow path component 50 is, for example, longer than the total length of the main body 40. The flow path component 50 connects the main body 40 with the connecting portion 222 of the water filling box 22. The inner diameter of the upstream side portion of the flow path component 50 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the downstream side portion of the main body 40. In addition, the downstream side portion of the main body 40 is configured to be able to insert the upstream side portion of the flow path component 50 in a substantially fitted state. By inserting the downstream side portion of the main body 40 into the upstream side portion of the flow path component 50, the main body 40 and the flow path component 50 can be combined. In addition, the inner diameter of the downstream side portion of the flow path component 50 is set to be substantially the same as the inner diameter of the connecting portion 222 and the inner diameter of the straight portion 432.

[0054] The collision part 60 is used to generate fine bubbles in the liquid passing through the flow path 43 by partially reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the collision part 60 to the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 can be set to about 25% to 45%. Figure 4 As shown, the collision portion 60 is located near the downstream end of the main body 40, and at least a portion is provided in the straight portion 432. The collision portion 60 is formed integrally with the main body 40 by, for example, injection molding a synthetic resin material. The collision portion 60 is not limited to being integrally formed with the main body 40, and may also be formed separately.

[0055] like Figure 5As shown, the collision part 60 divides the flow path 43 into a plurality of parts, in this case three parts, in the radial direction relative to the center of the flow path 43 along the direction of liquid flow. That is, the flow path 43 is divided into three flow paths 43a when passing through the collision part 60. The collision part 60 is composed of three protrusions 61 formed in a rod shape, for example, and is formed to protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the straight part 432 toward the inside of the flow path 43. In this embodiment, the protrusion 61 protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the straight part 432 toward the center direction in the cross section of the flow path 43. And, each protrusion 61 is connected at the front end and integrated into a substantially Y-shaped shape. That is, a plurality of protrusions 61 are connected in the flow path 43. According to this, the plurality of protrusions 61 are connected and linked to each other in the flow path, thereby improving the strength of the collision part 60. As a result, the reliability of the micro-bubble generator 30 can be improved. In addition, by connecting a plurality of protrusions 61 to each other in the flow path 43, the flow path 43 can be divided into a plurality of parts. This can increase the flow velocity of the liquid in the divided flow paths 43. Therefore, the amount of fine bubbles generated can be increased.

[0056] The plurality of protrusions 61 are arranged in a state where they are spaced apart from each other at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the flow path 43. The plurality of protrusions 61 are not limited to being spaced apart at equal intervals, but may be spaced apart at unequal intervals. In addition, the area of ​​the gap formed between the protrusions 61 is the minimum cross-sectional area through which water in the micro-bubble generator 30 can pass. In addition, as Figure 6 As shown, the plurality of protrusions 61 may be four or more. That is, the flow path 43 may be divided into four or more parts by the plurality of protrusions 61. Figure 6 In the example of , the collision portion 60 is formed into, for example, a substantially cross shape as a whole by a plurality of protrusions 61. In this case, the flow path 43 is divided into four flow paths 43b when passing through the collision portion 60.

[0057] like Figure 7 As shown, the protrusion 61 includes an upstream side wall portion 611, an expanded diameter portion 612, and a downstream side wall portion 613. The upstream side wall portion 611 constitutes the upstream end portion of the protrusion 61. The cross-sectional shape of the upstream side wall portion 611 in the longitudinal direction is formed, for example, in a so-called cannonball-shaped curved surface that is convex toward the upstream side, which is the direction opposite to the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43. The longitudinal direction refers to the direction along the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43. The width direction is a direction orthogonal to the direction along the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43, and refers to the direction along the up-down direction of the washing machine 10 when the micro-bubble generator 30 is installed in the washing machine 10.

[0058] The cross-sectional shape of the upstream side wall portion 611 in the length direction may also be a triangular shape that tapers toward the upstream side. The diameter expansion portion 612 is connected to the upstream side wall portion 611, and is formed to expand in a substantially straight line from the upstream side toward the downstream side. The diameter expansion portion 612 is not limited to a configuration of expanding in a straight line, and may also be a configuration of expanding in a curved line. That is, with respect to the cross-sectional shape of the protrusion 61, relative to the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43, the cross-sectional shape of the upstream side is smaller than the cross-sectional shape of the downstream side. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the protrusion 61 in the length direction changes smoothly relative to the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43.

[0059] The downstream side wall portion 613 is connected to the enlarged diameter portion 612, and constitutes the downstream end portion of the protrusion 61. The cross-sectional shape of the downstream side wall portion 613 in the longitudinal direction is formed into a substantially rectangular shape, for example. The downstream end face of the downstream side wall portion 613 is located on the same plane as the downstream end face of the main body portion 40. That is, the surface on the downstream side of the protrusion 61 and the surface on the downstream side of the main body portion 40 are so-called coplanar. In addition, with respect to the shape limited to the downstream end portion of the protrusion 61, the dimension of the downstream side wall portion 613 in the longitudinal direction is smaller than the dimension of the downstream side wall portion 613 in the width direction.

[0060] Here, in the cross section of the protrusion 61, when the dimension L in the length direction of the protrusion 61 is made smaller than the dimension W in the width direction, the angle between the surface of the enlarged diameter portion 612 and the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 becomes larger, and the flow path resistance of the protrusion 61 to the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 increases, which may cause a decrease in the flow rate. Therefore, in this embodiment, the protrusion 61 is Figure 7 As shown, in the cross section of the protrusion 61, the dimension L in the length direction is greater than the dimension W in the width direction. As a result, the flow resistance of the protrusion 61 to the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 can be suppressed to increase the flow rate. In the present embodiment, the ratio of the dimension L in the length direction to the dimension W in the width direction of the protrusion 61 is set to, for example, about 3:2. The dimension L in the length direction of the protrusion 61 is set to, for example, about 0.7 mm to 1.1 mm, and the dimension W in the width direction of the protrusion 61 is set to, for example, about 0.5 mm to 0.7 mm.

[0061] When water flows into the upstream side of the fine bubble generator 30, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is narrowed in the throttle portion 431 formed so that the inner diameter gradually decreases, thereby increasing the flow velocity based on the so-called Bernoulli theorem of fluid mechanics, and generating cavitation due to decompression. Then, fine bubbles are generated by the shear force acting when the high-speed flow collides with the collision portion 60 and the negative pressure generated in the negative pressure area of, for example, -1.0 MPa or less formed near the downstream end surface of the collision portion 60. As a result, the fine bubble generator 30 causes the air dissolved in the water passing through the fine bubble generator 30 to precipitate as fine bubbles in large quantities, and can supply fine bubble water containing a larger amount of fine bubbles than before passing through the fine bubble generator 30.

[0062] In addition, the inventors of the present application have conducted simulations on the effects of the different structures of the collision part of the present embodiment on the amount of fine bubbles generated and the flow rate. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , a conventional fine bubble generator having a collision portion 60a as a reference, i.e., a configuration in which the flow path 43 is not divided into a plurality of parts on the downstream side, the fine bubble generator 30 of the present embodiment, and the fine bubble generator 30 of the present embodiment as a comparative example are used. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , three specifications of the structure of the collision part 60b having a circular ring-shaped member in addition to the rod-shaped member protruding from the inner circumferential surface of the straight portion 432 toward the flow path 43 are compared. In the structure using the collision part 60b, the flow path 43 is divided into three flow paths 43c and one circular flow path 43d by the collision part 60b.

[0063] Fig.10 The relationship between (1) the size of the negative pressure area in the area downstream of the collision part, (2) the amount of fine bubbles generated after passing through the collision part, and (3) the flow rate after passing through the collision part is shown in each specification. The size of the negative pressure area refers to the size obtained by calculating the volume of the area below -1.0MPa. Fig.10 As shown, it was confirmed that when the fine bubble generator 30 having the collision part 60 of this embodiment was used, the same amount of fine bubble generation could be obtained compared with the conventional structure, and the flow rate was increased by about 1.1 times. It was also confirmed that in the structure of this embodiment, the size of the negative pressure area was increased by about 1.2 times compared with the conventional structure. In this way, by using the collision part 60 of this embodiment in the fine bubble generator 30, the size of the negative pressure area can be effectively increased, and with this, the amount of fine bubble generation can be promoted and the flow rate can be increased.

[0064] In addition, in the collision part 60b used as a comparative example, although the increase in flow rate was confirmed, the size of the negative pressure area and the amount of fine bubbles generated were significantly reduced. This is because, in the case of providing an annular component like the collision part 60b, in order to suppress the proportion of the cross-sectional area of ​​the collision part 60b relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, the collision part 60b needs to be made thinner. Therefore, it is considered that it is difficult to generate negative pressure because the area of ​​the downstream end face of the collision part 60b becomes smaller. In addition, as a reason why it is difficult to generate negative pressure, it can also be considered that if there is an annular component in the flow path, it is difficult to increase the flow rate because the flow of the liquid flowing in the flow path is pushed back. It can also be considered that due to the annular component, the collision part 60b is asymmetrically arranged on the outside and inside of the flow path, so the flow of the liquid on the outside and inside of the flow path interferes, and the flow of the liquid becomes unstable. Therefore, it is speculated that the amount of fine bubbles generated is reduced.

[0065] According to the embodiment described above, the fine bubble generator 30 includes a main body 40 and a collision part 60. The main body 40 has a flow path 43, which connects the inlet 41 and the outlet 42, and allows liquid to pass through. The collision part 60 is provided on the side of the outlet 42, and divides the flow path 43 into a plurality of parts in the radial direction relative to the center of the flow path 43, and generates fine bubbles in the liquid. Accordingly, the flow path 43 is divided into a plurality of parts in the radial direction relative to the center of the flow path 43 by the collision part 60, so that there is no region where the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 is locally narrowed, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 at the outlet 42 can be ensured. As a result, the reduction in flow rate can be suppressed, and fine bubbles can be effectively generated.

[0066] The main body 40 further includes a throttle portion 431. The throttle portion 431 is provided between the inlet portion 41 and the outlet portion 42, and gradually reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 is increased by the throttle portion 431, so that the liquid can collide with the collision portion 60 at a higher flow velocity. Thus, the amount of fine bubbles generated can be increased.

[0067] The number of the plurality of flow paths 43 partitioned by the collision portion 60 is 3 or more. Thus, by setting the number of the flow paths partitioned by the collision portion 60 to 3 or more, the area occupied by the collision portion 60 relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet portion 42 is increased, and the amount of fine bubbles generated can be increased.

[0068] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the collision portion 60 is a shape in which the upstream side is smaller than the downstream side in the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43. Accordingly, by forming the cross-sectional shape of the collision portion 60 to gradually increase from the upstream side toward the downstream side, the collision portion 60 is formed into a smooth shape relative to the liquid flowing in the flow path 43, and the flow path resistance when the liquid flows can be reduced, thereby increasing the flow rate of the liquid.

[0069] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the collision portion 60 is a shape in which the dimension in the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43 is larger than the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the liquid flows. Here, for example, in the case where the cross-sectional shape of the collision portion 60 is formed into a shape in which the dimension in the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path 43, i.e., the dimension in the length direction, is smaller than the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the liquid flows, i.e., the dimension in the width direction, the angle of the surface of the collision portion 60 facing the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 becomes larger. Therefore, the flow path resistance becomes larger, which may lead to a reduction in the flow rate. Therefore, in the cross section of the collision portion 60, by forming a shape in which the dimension in the length direction is larger than the dimension in the width direction, the flow path resistance when the liquid flows can be reduced, and thus the flow rate of the liquid can be further increased.

[0070] In addition, if Fig.11 As shown, the fine bubble generator 30 may also be configured without the flow path member 50. In this case, the fine bubble generator 30 is composed of only the main body 40 and the collision part 60. In addition, the main body 40 is connected to the connecting part 222 of the water filling box 22. That is, the main body 40 is directly connected to the water filling box 22. Fig.11 In the example of , the water introduced into the main body 40 flows out from the outlet 42 into the water filling box 22, and then merges with the detergent in the water filling box 22 and is supplied to the water storage tub 13. As a result, the number of components of the fine bubble generator 30 can be reduced, and thus the assembly man-hours can be reduced. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the water filling device 20 assembled with the fine bubble generator 30 can be reduced. In addition, by setting the inner diameter of the connecting portion 222 of the water filling box 22 directly connected to the outlet 42 of the main body 40 to be substantially the same as the inner diameter of the straight portion 432, the liquid rectification effect can be obtained in the same manner as the flow path component 50.

[0071] (Second embodiment)

[0072] Next, refer to Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 The second embodiment is described. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the micro-bubble generator 30 includes a collision part 71 instead of the collision part 60 of the first embodiment. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the collision part 60 is composed of a plurality of protrusions 61, whereas the collision part 71 of the present embodiment is composed of a single component. In other words, the collision part 60 is composed of three protrusions 61, whereas the collision part 71 of the present embodiment can be said to be composed of a single rod-shaped part by two protrusions.

[0073] The collision portion 71 is formed of, for example, a plate-like or rod-like member, and is provided to cross the flow path 43. That is, the flow path 43 is divided into two flow paths 43e when passing through the collision portion 60. In the present embodiment, the collision portion 71 extends linearly from a point on the inner peripheral surface of the straight portion 432 and the outlet portion 42 through the center of the cross section of the straight portion 432 and the outlet portion 42, that is, the center of the flow path 43, to another point on the inner peripheral surface of the straight portion 432 and the outlet portion 42, which is the opposite surface in this case. Therefore, the cross-sectional areas of the respective flow paths 43e divided by the collision portion 71 are substantially equal, and become the minimum cross-sectional area through which the liquid in the fine bubble generator 30 can pass.

[0074] The collision portion 71 can be formed of the same cross-sectional shape as the protrusion 61. The collision portion 71 has an upstream side wall portion 711, an expanded diameter portion 712, and a downstream side wall portion 713. The cross-sectional shapes of the upstream side wall portion 711, the expanded diameter portion 712, and the downstream side wall portion 713 of the collision portion 71 are respectively the same as the upstream side wall portion 611, the expanded diameter portion 612, and the downstream side wall portion 613 of the protrusion 61, and thus description thereof is omitted. Fig.12 As shown, the collision portion 71 is, for example, disposed approximately horizontally relative to the installation surface of the washing machine 10. The collision portion 71 is not limited to being approximately horizontal relative to the installation surface of the washing machine 10, and may be inclined relative to the horizontal, or may be approximately vertical. In addition, the collision portion 71 is not limited to a configuration passing through the center of the flow path 43, and may be a configuration that does not pass through the center of the flow path 43 but crosses the flow path 43. Furthermore, the collision portion 71 is not limited to a configuration extending in a straight line, and may be a configuration extending in other shapes such as a curved or bent shape.

[0075] According to such a second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved. In addition, by minimizing the number of flow paths 43 divided by the collision portion 71, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 can be ensured and the reduction in flow rate can be suppressed. Furthermore, by bridging the collision portion 71 between the inner peripheral surfaces of the straight portion 432, the strength against external forces near the outlet portion 42 can be increased. As a result, the reliability of the micro-bubble generator 30 can be improved.

[0076] In addition, if Fig.13 As shown, the collision portion 71 may be configured to be provided in plurality on the straight portion 432 at intervals from each other. Fig.13 In the example, two collision parts 71 are provided. The plurality of collision parts 71 is not limited to the configuration of providing two, and may be a configuration of providing three or more. In this case, the flow path 43 is divided into three or more flow paths 43e by the plurality of collision parts 71. Furthermore, by providing the plurality of collision parts 71, the strength against external forces can be further increased near the outlet 42.

[0077] (Third embodiment)

[0078] Reference Fig.14 The third embodiment is described. The third embodiment is different from the above embodiments in the installation position of the micro-bubble generator 30 in the washing machine 10. Specifically, in the above embodiments, the micro-bubble generator 30 is arranged on the downstream side of the water supply valve 21, whereas the micro-bubble generator 30 of the present embodiment is arranged on the upstream side of the water supply valve 21. In the present embodiment, the water injection device 20 has a cylindrical member 26. The cylindrical member 26 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape having a step on the outer peripheral surface. Fig.14 As shown, one end of the cylindrical member 26 is connected to the inflow portion 211 of the water supply valve 21, and the other end is connected to the water supply hose 100. The cylindrical member 26 is detachably mounted on the inflow portion 211 and the water supply hose 100, for example, by threaded engagement. In this case, the threaded portion formed on the inflow portion 211 can be arranged to be located above the upper surface 112 of the outer box 11.

[0079] In the present embodiment, the fine bubble generator 30 is built into the cylindrical member 26. The fine bubble generator 30 is composed of a main body 40 and a collision part 60. When the water supply valve 21 is opened, water flowing into the cylindrical member 26 from an external water source via the water supply hose 100 flows toward the water supply valve 21 through the fine bubble generator 30 when passing through the cylindrical member 26. According to such a third embodiment, the same effects as those of the above-mentioned embodiments can be achieved. In addition, for example, for an existing washing machine that does not have the fine bubble generator 30, by installing the cylindrical member 26 between the water supply valve 21 and the water supply hose 100, a fine bubble generating function can be added to the existing washing machine. Furthermore, for example, in the case where a failure of the fine bubble generator 30 occurs, by removing the cylindrical member 26 from the water supply valve 21 and the water supply hose 100, the failure of the fine bubble generator 30 can be easily dealt with by replacing components.

[0080] Furthermore, when the fine bubble generator 30 is disposed on the upstream side of the water supply valve 21 as in the third embodiment, the downstream side of the water supply valve 21 that can be branched when disposed on the downstream side cannot be used to compensate for the flow reduction caused by the fine bubble generator 30, and the water supply speed to the washing machine 10 is determined only by the flow rate of the fine bubble generator 30. Therefore, the fine bubble generator 30 of the present invention that achieves an increase in the water supply speed compared to the conventional fine bubble generator can also fully exert its effect in the third embodiment.

[0081] (Fourth embodiment)

[0082] Next, refer to Figures 15 to 19The fourth embodiment is described below. The fourth embodiment is different from the above-mentioned embodiments in the structure of the flow path 43 of the micro-bubble generator 30. Specifically, Fig.15 as well as Fig.16 As shown in the figures, the flow path 43 of the present embodiment has a downstream throttling portion 433. In addition, in the present embodiment, the throttling portion 431 functions as an upstream throttling portion. The downstream throttling portion 433 is arranged on the outflow side, that is, the downstream side, of the main body 40. The downstream throttling portion 433 is arranged between the straight portion 432 and the outlet portion 42, and is connected to the outlet portion 42. The downstream throttling portion 433 is arranged at a position closer to the outlet portion 42 side than the throttling portion 431. In other words, the throttling portion 431 is arranged at a position closer to the inlet portion 41 side than the downstream throttling portion 433. Accordingly, the flow velocity of the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 is increased through multiple stages of the throttling portion 431 and the downstream throttling portion 433, thereby improving the decompression effect on the liquid and increasing the amount of fine bubbles generated.

[0083] The downstream throttling portion 433 is formed so that the cross-sectional area, i.e., the inner diameter, of the flow path 43 gradually decreases from the straight portion 432 to the middle portion in the direction extending from the main body 40. In the present embodiment, the downstream throttling portion 433 is formed in a so-called truncated cone-shaped tapered tube shape in which the cross-sectional area, i.e., the inner diameter, of the flow path 43 is continuously and gradually reduced. The downstream throttling portion 433 is arranged over the entire circumference of the inner circumferential surface of the main body 40. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 can be continuously narrowed, thereby effectively increasing the flow velocity of the liquid flowing in the flow path 43. Thus, the amount of fine bubbles generated can be increased. The downstream throttling portion 433 can also be configured so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 gradually decreases in stages. In addition, the downstream throttling portion 433 can be configured integrally with the main body 40 or separately.

[0084] The cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 is gradually narrowed by the throttling portion 431 and the downstream throttling portion 433. After the straight portion 432 is used to rectify the turbulent flow of the liquid when passing through the throttling portion 431, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is further narrowed by the downstream throttling portion 433, thereby stabilizing the flow of the liquid and increasing the flow rate. As a result, the amount of fine bubbles generated can be increased. The lengths Lu and Ld of the throttling portion 431 and the downstream throttling portion 433 can be set to the same or different lengths. In the present embodiment, the length Lu of the throttling portion 431 is set to be longer than the length Ld of the downstream throttling portion 433.

[0085] In addition, the inclination angles θu and θd of the throttle portion 431 and the downstream throttle portion 433 relative to the horizontal can be set to the same or different angles. The inclination angles θu and θd can be set, for example, in the range of 10° to 30°. In the present embodiment, the inclination angle θu of the throttle portion 431 relative to the horizontal and the inclination angle θd of the downstream throttle portion 433 relative to the horizontal are set to the same angle. When the inclination angle θu and the inclination angle θd are set to different angles, it is preferred that the inclination angle θd is greater than the inclination angle θu. As a result, the increase in the flow velocity in the throttle portion 431 can be suppressed, and thus the pressure loss can be suppressed.

[0086] In addition, in this embodiment, if Fig.16 As shown, the collision portion 60 is located near the downstream end of the main body 40, and at least a portion is disposed in the downstream throttle portion 433. In this embodiment, the collision portion 60 is disposed in the outlet portion 42 and a portion of the downstream throttle portion 433. Fig.15 As shown, the collision part 60 divides the flow path 43 into a plurality of, in this case three, flow paths 43 in the radial direction relative to the center of the flow path 43 along the direction of liquid flow. That is, the flow path 43 is divided into three flow paths 43a when passing through the collision part 60.

[0087] And, if Fig.16 as well as Fig.17 As shown, a plurality of protrusions 61 constituting the collision portion 60 are formed to protrude from the inner circumference of the downstream throttle portion 433 and the outlet portion 42 toward the flow path 43. In this embodiment, the protrusions 61 protrude from the inner circumference of the downstream throttle portion 433 and the outlet portion 42 toward the center of the cross section of the flow path 43. Fig.17 In the example of , the collision portion 60 is formed into, for example, a substantially cross shape as a whole by a plurality of protrusions 61. In this case, the flow path 43 is divided into four flow paths 43b when passing through the collision portion 60.

[0088] also, Fig.18 The example shown is an example of a configuration in which the flow path 40 has a downstream throttle portion 433 and the fine bubble generator 30 has a collision portion 71 of the second embodiment described above instead of the collision portion 60. In this case, the collision portion 71 can be configured to extend linearly from a point on the inner circumferential surface of the downstream throttle portion 433 and the outlet portion 42 through the center of the cross section of the downstream throttle portion 433 and the outlet portion 42, that is, the center of the flow path 43, to another point on the inner circumferential surface of the downstream throttle portion 433 and the outlet portion 42, which is the opposite surface in this case. Accordingly, by arranging the collision portion 71 between the downstream throttle portion 433 and the inner circumferential surface of the outlet portion 42, the strength against external forces can be increased near the outlet portion 42. As a result, the reliability of the fine bubble generator 30 can be improved.

[0089] In addition, if Fig.19 As shown, the collision part 71 may be configured to be provided in plurality at intervals on the downstream throttle part 433 and the outlet part 42. Fig.19 In the example, two collision parts 71 are provided, and the two collision parts 71 are provided in parallel with each other. The plurality of collision parts 71 is not limited to the configuration of providing two, and may be a configuration of providing more than three. In this case, the flow path 43 is divided into more than three flow paths 43c by the plurality of collision parts 71. In addition, by providing the plurality of collision parts 71, the strength against external forces can be further improved near the outlet 42.

[0090] According to the fourth embodiment, the flow path 43 is narrowed by the downstream throttle 433 and the collision part 60, thereby effectively increasing the flow velocity of the liquid. Furthermore, by increasing the flow velocity of the liquid flowing in the flow path 43 near the outlet 42, fine bubbles can be efficiently generated. In addition, by making the liquid in a stable flow state after passing through the downstream throttle 433 contact the collision part 60, it is possible to reduce pressure loss and suppress the reduction in flow rate.

[0091] (Fifth embodiment)

[0092] Next, refer to Fig. 20 The fifth embodiment is described. The fifth embodiment is different from the fourth embodiment in the structure of the collision portion 60. In the fifth embodiment, a protrusion 62 is provided instead of the protrusion 61 of the fourth embodiment. Specifically, in the fourth embodiment, the front ends of the plurality of protrusions 61 are connected, whereas the plurality of protrusions 62 of the present embodiment have their front ends as conical ends and are not connected, and independently protrude from the downstream throttle portion 433. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the flow path 43 is not divided by the plurality of protrusions 62.

[0093] The protrusion 62 can be formed of the same cross-sectional shape as the protrusion 61. The protrusion 62 has an upstream side wall portion 621, an expanded diameter portion 622, and a downstream side wall portion 623. The cross-sectional shapes of the upstream side wall portion 621, the expanded diameter portion 622, and the downstream side wall portion 623 of the protrusion 62 are respectively the same as the upstream side wall portion 611, the expanded diameter portion 612, and the downstream side wall portion 613 of the protrusion 61, and therefore description thereof is omitted.

[0094] According to the fifth embodiment, the same effects as those of the fourth embodiment are achieved. In addition, since the plurality of protrusions 62 are not connected to each other in the flow path 43, the proportion of the cross-sectional area of ​​the collision portion 60 in the inner cross-sectional area of ​​the main body 40 can be reduced to ensure the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43. Thus, the flow rate can be ensured. Furthermore, by ensuring the flow rate and increasing the flow velocity of the liquid in multiple stages using the throttle portion 431 and the downstream side throttle portion 433, the performance of the micro-bubble generator 30 can be improved.

[0095] (Sixth Implementation Method)

[0096] Next, refer to Fig.21 The sixth embodiment is described. The sixth embodiment is different from the fourth embodiment in that the micro-bubble generator 30 includes a collision portion 72 instead of the collision portion 71 of the fourth embodiment. The cross-sectional shape of the collision portion 72 can be configured in the same manner as the collision portion 71. The collision portion 72 of the present embodiment includes a plurality of main body portions 721 and an annular portion 722. The main body portion 721 is formed, for example, of a plate-like or rod-like component, and is formed to protrude from the inner circumferential surface of the downstream throttle portion 433 and the outlet portion 42 toward the inside of the flow path 43. The plurality of main body portions 721 are, for example, arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the flow path 43. The plurality of main body portions 721 may also be asymmetrical with respect to the center of the flow path 43.

[0097] The annular portion 722 is formed, for example, in a circular ring shape and is disposed between the plurality of main body portions 721. In the present embodiment, the center of the annular portion 722 coincides with the center of the flow path 43. The annular portion 722 has a through hole 723. The through hole 723 is disposed at the center of the annular portion 722 and is formed by penetrating the collision portion 72 in the thickness direction. In such a configuration, the flow path 43 is divided into two flow paths 43d and one circular flow path 43e when passing through the collision portion 72. The cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43e is set to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43d.

[0098] In addition, in this embodiment, if Fig.21 As shown, the downstream throttle portion 433 is provided at two locations in a manner of cutting off a portion of the circumferential direction of the inner circumferential surface of the main body 40. In this case, the portion of the inner circumferential surface of the main body 40 where the downstream throttle portion 433 is not provided is formed as a straight portion 432 connected to the outlet portion 42. Thus, the downstream throttle portion 433 is provided in the region corresponding to the collision portion 72 of the inner circumferential surface of the main body 40, so that the liquid with increased flow velocity effectively contacts the downstream throttle portion 433, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path 43 where the downstream throttle portion 433 is not provided is ensured to be large, thereby achieving the generation of fine bubbles and ensuring the flow rate at the same time.

[0099] According to the sixth embodiment, the flow path resistance tends to be reduced by adopting a configuration in which the through hole 723 is provided in the collision portion 72. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, an increase in the flow rate can be achieved.

[0100] In addition, in the present embodiment, the through hole 723 is provided at the center of the flow path 43. The center of the flow path 43 has the fastest flow velocity in the flow path 43. Therefore, by providing the through hole 723 at the center of the flow path 43, the flow velocity of the liquid can be effectively increased. In addition, as the flow velocity of the liquid is increased in multiple stages by the throttle portion 431 and the downstream throttle portion 433, an increase in the amount of fine bubbles generated can be expected.

[0101] (Seventh Implementation Method)

[0102] Next, refer to Fig. 22 The seventh embodiment is described. The seventh embodiment is applied to a dishwashing machine 80 as a washing device. As is well known, the dishwashing machine 80 includes an outer box 81, a door 82, a washing tank 83, a cutlery basket 84, a washing nozzle 85, a circulation device 86, a heater 87, and a water supply mechanism 88. The outer box 81 constitutes the outer shell of the dishwashing machine 80, and is formed as a rectangular box with an opening in the front by, for example, a stainless steel plate. The door 82 is provided on the front side of the outer box 81, and opens and closes the opening of the outer box 81. When the door 82 is opened, the user can put in or take out the tableware D relative to the washing tank 83 through the opening. The washing tank 83 is provided in the outer box 81, and is formed as a rectangular box with an opening in the front by, for example, a stainless steel plate. The cutlery basket 84 is used to store the tableware D. The cutlery basket 84 is configured so that the inside and outside of the washing tank 83 can be entered and exited when the door 82 is opened.

[0103] The cleaning nozzle 85 is arranged below the cutlery basket 84 in the cleaning tank 83. When a cleaning liquid mixed with water and a cleaning agent is supplied to the cleaning nozzle 85, the cleaning liquid is ejected from the front end of the cleaning nozzle 85. The circulation device 86 is arranged, for example, at the bottom of the outer box 81. The circulation device 86 can be configured to include a switching valve 861 and a pump 862. The switching valve 861 is configured to be electromagnetically opened and closed. The switching valve 861 is configured to be able to selectively select a circulation path for circulating the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 83 and a drainage path for discharging the water stored in the cleaning tank 83 to the outside. The pump 862 functions as a circulation pump for circulating the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 83 through the circulation path, and functions as a drainage pump for discharging the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 83 through the drainage path.

[0104] The heater 87 is, for example, disposed at the bottom of the cleaning tank 83. The heater 87 has a function of heating the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 83 into warm water. The water supply mechanism 88 is, for example, used to supply water supplied from an external water source such as a water pipe into the cleaning tank 83. The water supply mechanism 88 includes a water supply valve 881, a water supply pipe 882, and a water supply port 883. The water supply valve 881 is configured to be electromagnetically openable and closable. The water supply pipe 882 is, for example, composed of a metal pipe, one end of which is connected to the water supply valve 881, and the other end of which is connected to the water supply port 883. The water supply port 883 is, for example, disposed at the upper part of the cleaning tank 83. The water supply port 883 is used to supply water supplied from an external water source into the cleaning tank 83. When the water supply valve 881 is opened, water supplied from an external water source is supplied from the water supply port 883 into the cleaning tank 83 through the water supply pipe 882. That is, the water supply valve 881 opens and closes the path from the external water source to the water supply port 883 via the water supply pipe 882 .

[0105] In addition, the water supply port 883 has a mounting portion 883a. Fig. 22 As shown, the fine bubble generator 30 is built into the mounting portion 883a. Thus, when water supplied from an external water source flows toward the fine bubble generator 30, Fig. 22 When the water passes through the inside of the fine bubble generator 30 in the direction of arrow A, fine bubbles containing ultrafine bubbles are generated in the water. When the detergent is put into the washing tank 83 and the water supply valve 881 is opened, the detergent in the washing tank 83 and the fine bubble water generated by the fine bubble generator 30 are mixed in the washing tank 83. Then, by driving the pump 862 and the heater 87, the fine bubble water mixed with the detergent to become warm water is sprayed from the washing nozzle 85 toward the tableware D, and the tableware D is washed. According to the fourth embodiment, in the dishwasher 80 equipped with the fine bubble generator 30, the reduction in flow rate can be suppressed, and the washing performance can be improved by the effect of fine bubbles.

[0106] (Eighth Implementation Method)

[0107] Next, refer to Fig.23 The eighth embodiment is described. The eighth embodiment is applied to a water-flushing toilet device 90 as a cleaning device. As is well known, the water-flushing toilet device 90 includes a toilet 91 and a water supply mechanism 92. The toilet 91 has a function as a cleaning tank. The toilet 91 includes a toilet bowl 911 and a lip surface 912 provided on the outer peripheral portion of the upper end of the toilet bowl 911.

[0108] The water supply mechanism 92 includes a water supply valve 921, a main water supply pipe 922, a toilet bowl water supply pipe 923, a lip surface water supply pipe 924, and a detergent supply device 925. The water supply valve 921 is configured to be electromagnetically openable. One end of the main water supply pipe 922 is connected to the water supply valve 921, and the other end is branched into two parts, which are connected to the toilet bowl water supply pipe 923 and the lip surface water supply pipe 924. The toilet bowl water supply pipe 923 is used to supply water supplied from an external water source into the toilet bowl 911. The toilet bowl water supply pipe 923 has a spraying portion 923a, which is provided at the front end of the toilet bowl water supply pipe 923 and is the portion that supplies water to the toilet bowl 911. The lip surface water supply pipe 924 is used to supply water supplied from an external water source to the lip surface 912. The lip surface water supply pipe 924 has a spraying portion 924a. The spraying portion 924 a is provided at the front end of the lip surface water supply pipe 924 , and is a portion for supplying water to the lip surface 912 .

[0109] When the water supply valve 921 is opened, water supplied from an external water source is supplied from the main water supply pipe 922 to the toilet bowl 91 through the water supply pipe 923 for the toilet bowl and the water supply pipe 924 for the lip surface. That is, the water supply valve 921 opens and closes the path from the external water source to the toilet bowl 91 via the water supply pipes 922, 923, and 924. The detergent supply device 925 has, for example, the following functions: when the water supply valve 921 is opened and water is supplied to the toilet bowl 91 via the water supply pipes 922, 923, and 924, the detergent is automatically supplied to the toilet bowl 91 via the detergent supply pipe 925a.

[0110] In addition, the main water supply pipe 922 has a mounting portion 922a. Fig.23 As shown, the fine bubble generator 30 is built into the mounting portion 922a. Thus, when water supplied from an external water source flows toward the fine bubble generator 30, Fig.23 When the water passes through the interior of the fine bubble generator 30 in the direction of arrow A, fine bubbles containing ultrafine bubbles are generated in the water. When the water supply valve 921 is opened, the detergent in the toilet 91 and the fine bubble water generated by the fine bubble generator 30 are mixed in the toilet 91. Then, the toilet 91 is cleaned by the fine bubble water mixed with the detergent. According to the eighth embodiment, in the water flushing toilet device 90 equipped with the fine bubble generator 30, the reduction in flow rate can be suppressed, and the cleaning performance can be improved by the effect of fine bubbles.

[0111] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the micro-bubble generator is described by using specific numerical values, but the specific numerical values ​​are merely examples and can be changed as appropriate. In addition, the above-mentioned multiple embodiments can be arbitrarily combined and implemented.

[0112] The above describes a plurality of embodiments of the present invention, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and purpose of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the scope of the patent claim and the scope equivalent thereto.

Claims

1. A micro bubble generator, comprising: a main body having a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet and through which liquid can pass; and The collision part is provided on the side of the outlet part, divides the flow path into a plurality of parts in a radial direction relative to the center of the flow path, and generates fine bubbles in the liquid. The collision portion has a plurality of protrusions extending from the inner peripheral surface of the main body toward the flow path. The plurality of protrusions are in the shape of three rods, and when viewed from the front, the front ends of the three rods are directly connected in a Y shape. The cross-sectional shape of the protrusion on the upstream side in the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path is smaller than the cross-sectional shape of the downstream side and is convex from the downstream side toward the upstream side.

2. The micro-bubble generator according to claim 1, wherein The main body further includes a throttling portion, which is disposed between the inlet portion and the outlet portion so as to gradually reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path.

3. The micro-bubble generator according to claim 2, wherein: The cross-sectional shape of the collision portion is a shape in which a dimension in a direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path is larger than a dimension in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the liquid flows.

4. A cleaning device, wherein: A microbubble generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is provided.

5. A micro bubble generator, comprising: a main body having a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet and through which liquid can pass; and The collision part generates fine bubbles in the liquid by reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. The main body has: a downstream throttling portion, which is connected to the outlet portion and gradually reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path; and an upstream throttling portion, which is arranged at a position closer to the inlet portion than the downstream throttling portion and gradually reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. The collision portion is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the downstream throttle portion located on the outlet portion side, and the cross section of the collision portion in the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path is formed in a shape in which the downstream side is larger than the upstream side.

6. The fine bubble generator according to claim 5, wherein The downstream throttle portion is provided over the entire circumference of the inner peripheral surface of the main body portion.

7. The fine bubble generator according to claim 5, wherein The downstream throttle portion is provided at a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the main body portion.

8. The fine bubble generator according to claim 6, wherein The collision portion is composed of a plurality of protrusions, which are formed to protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the main body toward the inside of the flow path and are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the inner peripheral surface of the main body. The plurality of protrusions are connected in series in the flow path.

9. The fine bubble generator according to claim 6, wherein: The collision portion is composed of a plurality of protrusions, which are formed to protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the main body toward the inside of the flow path and are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the inner peripheral surface of the main body. The plurality of protrusions are independent in the flow path.

10. The fine bubble generator according to claim 5, wherein The collision portion is formed to cross the flow path.

11. The fine bubble generator according to claim 10, wherein The collision portion has a through hole formed to penetrate the collision portion in a thickness direction.

12. The fine bubble generator according to claim 11, wherein The through hole is provided at a central portion of the flow path.

13. The fine bubble generator according to claim 12, wherein A plurality of the collision parts are provided at intervals.

14. A cleaning device, wherein: A microbubble generator according to any one of claims 5 to 13 is provided.

Images