Space purification device

Abstract

This space purification device (1) is provided with: a hypochlorous acid generation unit (26) which is provided inside an air flow path (38) and which is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas from hypochlorous acid water; a humidification unit (126) that is provided inside the air flow path (38) and humidifies the air; a fan (29) for releasing air flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit (26) and the humidification unit (126) to a target space; and an integrated control unit (111) that controls the operation of the hypochlorous acid generation unit (26) and the humidification unit (126). The integrated control unit (111) can control each of the hypochlorous acid generation unit (26) and the humidification unit (126).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a space purification device using hypochlorous acid water. Background Art

[0002] Currently, as such a space purification device, there is known a sterilization air-conditioning system in which a vaporization filter is provided so as to cover the cross-section of the air passage of the air-conditioning device, and sterilizing water is supplied to the vaporization filter to form a water film. Thus, the air-conditioning air is brought into contact with the sterilizing water to perform sterilization (for example, refer to Patent Document 1). In particular, when hypochlorous acid water is used as the sterilizing water, the air-conditioning air itself has a sterilizing effect by containing hypochlorous acid in the air-conditioning air.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-227622 Summary of the Invention

[0006] However, in a space purification device based on the vaporization filtration method, when hypochlorous acid water is used as the sterilizing water introduced into the vaporization filter (element), the concentration of hypochlorous acid water is usually constant. Therefore, the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the air blown into the target space is determined according to the amount of humidity contained in the flowing air. That is, the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas cannot be adjusted separately.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and provides a technique for flexibly adjusting the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas in a space purification device.

[0008] The space purification device of the present invention includes: a hypochlorous acid generation unit provided in an air flow path and capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas from hypochlorous acid water; a humidifying unit provided in the air flow path for humidifying the air; a blowing unit for releasing the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidifying unit into a target space; and a control unit for controlling the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidifying unit.

[0009] According to the present invention, the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted separately, and a technique for flexibly adjusting the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas in a space purification device can be provided, which solves the technical problems that are difficult to achieve in the existing structure. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010] Figure 1 It is a schematic view of the space purification device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2It is a block diagram showing the structure of the integrated control unit in the space purification device.

[0012] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of the space purification device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the space purification device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 It is a block diagram showing the structure of the integrated control unit in the space purification device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of the space purification device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the space purification device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Embodiments

[0017] The space purification device of the present invention includes: a hypochlorous acid generation unit provided in the air flow path and capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas using hypochlorous acid water; a humidification unit provided in the air flow path for humidifying the air; a blowing unit for releasing the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit into the target space; and a control unit for controlling the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit, and the control unit can control the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit separately.

[0018] According to such a structure, since the generation of hypochlorous acid gas from the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification of the humidification unit can be controlled separately, a space purification device that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized in terms of a space purification device that is difficult to achieve in the existing structure.

[0019] In addition, the space purification device of the present invention may further include: a hypochlorous acid control unit that determines information related to the supply operation of supplying hypochlorous acid water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit based on the information received from the control unit and outputs it to the control unit; a humidification control unit that determines information related to the supply operation of supplying water to the humidification unit based on the information received from the control unit and outputs it to the control unit. The control unit can also be linked with the hypochlorous acid control unit and the humidification control unit to be able to control the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit separately.

[0020] According to such a structure, the processing can also be distributed to the control unit, the hypochlorous acid control unit, and the humidification control unit, which can reduce the processing resources on the control unit side and enable rapid control.

[0021] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the control unit can also adjust the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the air to be released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit, and the control unit can also adjust the humidification amount contained in the air to be released into the target space by controlling the humidification unit.

[0022] Thus, it is also possible to independently adjust the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the humidification amount, and considering the humidification amount in the hypochlorous acid generation unit, humidification is performed in the humidification unit to supplement the insufficient part. Therefore, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0023] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the humidification unit can also be a filter-type gas-liquid contact unit that drops water from the water supply unit and vaporizes it.

[0024] Thus, the humidification unit can also perform humidification according to the amount of water flowing into the gas-liquid contact unit, so the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0025] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the humidification unit can also be a water evaporation unit that uses water vapor for humidification.

[0026] Thus, the humidification unit can also perform humidification according to the amount of water vapor, so the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0027] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid generation unit can also be arranged upstream of the humidification unit for the airflow flowing into the air circulation path.

[0028] Thus, since the generation of hypochlorous acid gas is not affected by the humidification from the humidification unit, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0029] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid generation unit can also be arranged side by side with the humidification unit for the airflow flowing into the air circulation path.

[0030] Thus, it is also possible to prevent the hypochlorous acid gas generated by the hypochlorous acid generation unit from being attenuated by humidification, so the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0031] In addition, the space purification device of the present invention further includes a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged upstream of the hypochlorous acid generation unit in the air circulation path to adjust the temperature of the air flowing into the air circulation path, and the temperature adjustment unit can also heat the air according to the required humidification amount for the humidification unit.

[0032] Thus, by heating the air, the humidification amount of the humidifying unit can be flexibly adjusted, so that the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be more flexibly adjusted in the space purification device.

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, each of the following embodiments is an example of embodying the present invention, and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, in all the drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components and the description thereof is omitted. In addition, in order to avoid duplication, the details of each part not directly related to the present invention are omitted in the description of each drawing.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0035] (First Embodiment)

[0036] Refer to Figure 1 , and the space purification device 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the space purification device 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] <1. Overall Structure>

[0039] As a system, the space purification device 1 dilutes high-concentration hypochlorous acid water with raw water, which is urban water obtained from the outside, generates sterilizing water containing hypochlorous acid (the sterilizing water can also be called hypochlorous acid water), and then releases hypochlorous acid into the air through gas-liquid contact to sterilize the target space S. At the same time, the space purification device 1 humidifies the target space S by gas-liquid contact using urban water obtained from the outside. At this time, the space purification device 1 independently controls the water flow of the hypochlorous acid water for gas-liquid contact and the water flow to the humidifying unit according to the set values set by the user.

[0040] Specifically, as Figure 1 shown, the space purification device 1 includes: a hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, a water supply device 100, an air conditioning device 20, and an integrated control unit 111.

[0041] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 includes a water supply unit 4, a hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7, and a hypochlorous acid control unit 3.

[0042] The water supply device 100 includes a water supply unit 104 and a humidification control unit 103.

[0043] In addition, the air conditioning device 20 includes: a return air duct 22, a filter 23, a temperature control unit 27, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, a humidifying unit 126, a blower 29, a supply air duct 30, a drain pan 31, a drain flow path 32, a supply air control unit 21, a temperature and humidity sensor 40, and an operation unit 41.

[0044] The temperature control unit 27 includes an air cooler 24, an air heater 25, a heat source device 33, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 34 to 37).

[0045] In addition, the integrated control unit 111 is communicably connected to the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 in the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, the humidification control unit 103 in the water supply device 100, and the air supply control unit 21 in the air conditioning device 20 by wireless or wired means, and directly or indirectly controls the operations of the respective devices according to the control signals from the respective control units. In addition, the integrated control unit 111 corresponds to the "control unit" in the claims.

[0046] Here, the integrated control unit 111, the air supply control unit 21, the hypochlorous acid control unit 3, and the humidification control unit 103 each have a computer system, and the computer system has a processor (computer) and a memory. The processor executes the program stored in the memory, and thus the computer system functions as each control unit (controller). In addition, the program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system here, but it can also be recorded in a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card for provision, or can be provided through a telecommunication line such as the Internet.

[0047] <2. Hypochlorous acid water supply device>

[0048] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 is a device that mixes the water supplied from the water supply unit 4 into the hypochlorous acid water supplied from the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7 for dilution, and supplies the diluted hypochlorous acid water as sterilizing water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26.

[0049] The tap water valve 6 is provided in the tap water pipe 5. The tap water valve 6 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means, and opens and closes according to the signal from the integrated control unit 111. Thus, tap water can be introduced into or stopped from being introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26. The tap water valve 6 can use an electromagnetic valve.

[0050] The hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7 sends out the highly concentrated hypochlorous acid water stored therein into the tap water pipe 5 of the water supply unit 4. The hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7 is composed of a water supply pipe 8, a stop valve 9, a hypochlorous acid water pump 10, and a hypochlorous acid water tank 11.

[0051] The water supply pipe 8 is a pipe for communicably connecting the tap water pipe 5 to the hypochlorous acid water tank 11 at a specified position in the tap water pipe 5 of the water supply unit 4, and sending the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid water tank 11 into the tap water pipe 5.

[0052] The water stop valve 9 is provided on the water supply pipe 8. The water stop valve 9 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means and opens and closes according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. The water stop valve 9 can use an electromagnetic valve.

[0053] The hypochlorous acid water pump 10 is a water supply pump provided on the water supply pipe 8. The hypochlorous acid water pump 10 is a device that allows hypochlorous acid water to flow through the water supply pipe 8 in a state where the water stop valve 9 is "open" when sending hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water tank 11 to the water supply pipe 8. The hypochlorous acid water pump 10 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means and operates according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. By the interlocking operation of the water stop valve 9 and the hypochlorous acid water pump 10, it is possible to introduce or stop introducing hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water tank 11 into the water supply pipe 8.

[0054] The hypochlorous acid control unit 3 inputs information on the operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7 to the integrated control unit 111 according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. The hypochlorous acid control unit 3 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means.

[0055] According to the structures and operations of the above respective components, the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 executes the supply of hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7 and the supply of water from the water supply unit 4 according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111, mixes and dilutes the hypochlorous acid water in the pipe respectively, and supplies the hypochlorous acid water diluted to the set concentration as sterilized water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26. In the present embodiment, the hypochlorous acid concentration in the hypochlorous acid water mixed and diluted in the pipe is 20 ppm.

[0056] <3. Water supply device>

[0057] The water supply device 100 is a device that supplies water supplied from the water supply unit 104 to the humidifying unit 126.

[0058] The water supply unit 104 supplies city water flowing in from an external equipment water supply pipe (not shown) to the humidifying unit 126 of the air conditioning device 20. The water supply unit 104 is composed of a water pipe 105 and a water valve 106.

[0059] The water pipe 105 is a pipe that communicably connects between the external equipment water supply pipe and the humidifying unit 126 of the air conditioning device 20. The water valve 106 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means and opens and closes according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. The water valve 106 can use an electromagnetic valve.

[0060] Thereby, it is possible to introduce or stop introducing tap water into the humidifying unit 126.

[0061] The humidification control unit 103 inputs information regarding water supply from the water supply unit 104 to the air conditioner 20 into the integrated control unit 111 according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. The humidification control unit 103 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 111 in a wireless or wired manner.

[0062] <4. Air conditioner>

[0063] The air conditioner 20 adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air introduced from the outside and the target space S, and at the same time vaporizes the hypochlorous acid water sent from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 and releases it into the target space S, thereby performing disinfection or sterilization of the target space S.

[0064] The air conditioner 20 includes: a return air duct 22, a filter 23, a temperature adjustment unit 27, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, a humidification unit 126, a fan 29, a supply air duct 30, a drain pan 31, a drain flow path 32, a supply air control unit 21, a temperature and humidity sensor 40, and an operation unit 41.

[0065] The filter 23, the temperature adjustment unit 27, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, the humidification unit 126, the fan 29, and the drain pan 31 are arranged in the air flow path 38 through which the air introduced from the return air duct 22 flows.

[0066] The air introduced into the air conditioner 20 is sequentially ventilated to the return air duct 22, the filter 23, the temperature adjustment unit 27, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, the humidification unit 126, and the fan 29, and is discharged to the target space S outside the device through the supply air duct 30.

[0067] The return air duct 22 is an opening for introducing air into the air conditioner 20. Dust and other impurities in the air introduced from the return air duct 22 are removed by the filter 23.

[0068] The filter 23 removes dust and other impurities from the introduced air. The air passing through the filter 23 is ventilated to the temperature adjustment unit 27.

[0069] As described above, the temperature adjustment unit 27 includes an air cooler 24, an air heater 25, a heat source device 33, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 34 to 37). The temperature adjustment unit 27 adjusts the temperature of the air ventilated to the temperature adjustment unit 27.

[0070] The air ventilated to the temperature adjustment unit 27 passes through the air cooler 24 and the air heater 25, and the temperature is adjusted according to the cooling of the air cooler 24 or the heating of the air heater 25.

[0071] The air cooler 24 is a unit that cools the passing air. The air cooler 24 is communicatively connected to the heat source device 33 through the flow paths 34 and 35. Cold water flows from the heat source device 33 through the flow path 34 and into the air cooler 24, and the cold water passes through the air cooler 24. Heat exchange occurs between the incoming cold water and the air passing through the air cooler 24, and the passing air is cooled. The cold water after heat exchange flows through the flow path 35 and is sent back to the heat source device 33. At this time, the water generated by condensation is recovered by the drain pan 31. The air passing through the air cooler 24 is ventilated to the air heater 25.

[0072] The air heater 25 is a unit that heats the passing air. The air heater 25 is communicatively connected to the heat source device 33 through the flow paths 36 and 37. Hot water flows from the heat source device 33 through the flow path 36 and into the air heater 25, and the hot water passes through the air heater 25. Heat exchange occurs between the incoming hot water and the air passing through the air heater 25, and the passing air is heated. The hot water after heat exchange flows through the flow path 37 and is sent back to the heat source device 33. The air passing through the air heater 25 is ventilated to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26.

[0073] The heat source device 33 is a device that cools and heats water, and serves as a device for supplying cold water to the air cooler 24 and hot water to the air heater 25.

[0074] The flow path 34 is a flow path that sends the water cooled by the heat source device 33 from the heat source device 33 to the air cooler 24.

[0075] The flow path 35 is a flow path that sends the water passing through the air cooler 24 back to the heat source device 33.

[0076] The flow path 36 is a flow path that sends the water heated by the heat source device 33 from the heat source device 33 to the air heater 25.

[0077] The flow path 37 is a flow path that sends the water passing through the air heater 25 back to the heat source device 33.

[0078] As described above, the temperature control unit 27 is composed of various elements.

[0079] The temperature control unit 27 is a unit provided on the upstream side of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, and is used to heat the incoming air according to the humidification required amount for the humidification unit 126 input from the operation unit 41. The temperature control unit 27 is communicatively connected to the integrated control unit 111 in a wireless or wired manner and is controlled by the integrated control unit 111.

[0080] As the operating states of the temperature control unit 27, there are two states: heating operation and cooling operation. The operating state selected by the operation unit 41 is stored in the integrated control unit 111. The integrated control unit 111 controls the temperature control unit 27 based on the humidification required amount for the humidification unit 126 input from the operation unit 41 and the information about the operation of the temperature control unit 27 input from the air supply control unit 21.

[0081] Heating operation is an operating state in which the air passing through the temperature control unit 27 is heated. At this time, water is heated in the heat source device 33, and hot water is supplied to the air heater 25.

[0082] Cooling operation is an operating state in which the air passing through the temperature control unit 27 is cooled. At this time, water is cooled in the heat source device 33, and cold water is supplied to the air cooler 24.

[0083] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is arranged in such a way that the air flowing into it circulates, and it is a unit that generates hypochlorous acid gas from hypochlorous acid water. The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is arranged upstream of the humidification unit 126 with respect to the inflowing air current, and hypochlorous acid water (hypochlorous acid water sent out from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2) is contained in the air. The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is connected in communication with the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 (the water supply pipe 8 of the hypochlorous acid water supply unit 7) via the water supply pipe 5 of the water supply unit 4.

[0084] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 has a structure (such as a vaporization filter) that can contain the hypochlorous acid water sent out from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2. The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is in a flat plate shape and has a large number of fibers, and can store hypochlorous acid water between the fibers. The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is arranged in such a way that the return air duct 22 faces the flat surface part (the air flow surface) of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26.

[0085] The hypochlorous acid water sent out from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 is supplied from above the flat surface part of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26. Therefore, the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 can contain hypochlorous acid water. That is, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 causes the hypochlorous acid water to flow from above the flat surface part to below and vaporize. By vaporizing the air containing hypochlorous acid water, hypochlorous acid is released into the target space S, and the sterilization or disinfection of the target space S is carried out.

[0086] In addition, during the operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, hypochlorous acid water is always supplied to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, so the hypochlorous acid water that is not completely contained in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 flows downward and is recovered by the drain pan 31.

[0087] The humidification unit 126 is arranged in such a way that the air flowing into it circulates, and it is a unit that humidifies the air. It is a filter type gas-liquid contact part that drops water from the water supply unit 104 and vaporizes it.

[0088] The humidifying unit 126 is provided at the subsequent stage of the hypochlorous acid generating unit 26 and the previous stage of the air supply pipe 30. The humidifying unit 126 is communicatively connected to the water supply device 100 via the tap water pipe 105 of the water supply unit 104.

[0089] The humidifying unit 126 has a structure (such as a vaporization filter) capable of containing the water sent out from the water supply device 100. The humidifying unit 126 is in a flat plate shape and has a large number of fibers, and can retain water between the fibers. The humidifying unit 126 is arranged such that the return air pipe 22 faces the flat surface portion (the air flow surface) of the humidifying unit 126.

[0090] The water sent out from the water supply device 100 is supplied from above the flat surface portion of the humidifying unit 126. Therefore, the air passing through the humidifying unit 126 can be humidified. That is, the humidifying unit 126 vaporizes the water flowing from above the flat surface portion to below. The air is humidified by the humidifying unit 126, and the humidified air is released into the target space S.

[0091] In addition, during the operation of the water supply device 100, water is always supplied to the humidifying unit 126, so the water that is not completely contained in the humidifying unit 126 flows downward and is recovered by the drain pan 31.

[0092] Here, the above-mentioned "vaporization filter" is a component equivalent to a filter type gas-liquid contact part.

[0093] The blower 29 is a unit that releases the air flowing inside the air conditioner 20 into the target space S, and generates an air flow flowing from the return air pipe 22 to the air supply pipe 30.

[0094] The blower 29 is provided at the subsequent stage of the humidifying unit 126 and the previous stage of the air supply pipe 30. Thereby, the air used for disinfection or sterilization can flow into the air conditioner 20. The blower 29 releases the humidified air containing hypochlorous acid into the target space S, and the humidification and disinfection or sterilization of the target space S can be performed. In addition, the blower 29 is communicatively connected to the integrated control unit 111 in a wireless or wired manner and is controlled by the integrated control unit 111. In addition, the blower 29 corresponds to the "air supply part" in the claims.

[0095] The air supply pipe 30 is an opening for releasing the air inside the air conditioner 20 into the target space S. The humidified air containing hypochlorous acid is released from the air supply pipe 30 into the target space S, and the humidification and disinfection or sterilization of the space can be performed.

[0096] The drain pan 31 is a tray for collecting hypochlorous acid water and water inside the air conditioner 20. The drain pan 31 is provided below the air cooler 24, the air heater 25, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, and the humidifying unit 126, and at least recovers the hypochlorous acid water and water flowing out from the air cooler 24, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, and the humidifying unit 126.

[0097] The drain flow path 32 is a flow path for discharging the hypochlorous acid water and water accumulated inside the air conditioner 20. The drain flow path 32 is connected to the drain pan 31, and discharges the water (including hypochlorous acid water) collected by the drain pan 31 to the outside of the device.

[0098] The temperature and humidity sensor 40 is provided in the target space S, and is used to detect the temperature and humidity (temperature and humidity) of the air inside the target space S. The temperature and humidity sensor 40 is communicably connected to the air supply control unit 21 by wireless or wired means, and outputs the detected information related to temperature and humidity to the air supply control unit 21.

[0099] The operation unit 41 is provided in the target space S, and is a panel for the user to input information related to the start / end of each operation, etc.

[0100] <5. Control actions>

[0101] Next, with reference to Figure 2 , the operation of the integrated control unit 111 of the space purification device 1 to control the fan 29, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, and the humidifying unit 126 will be described.

[0102] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the structure of the integrated control unit 111 in the space purification device 1.

[0103] The integrated control unit 111 is linked with the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 in the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, the humidifying control unit 103 in the water supply device 100, and the air supply control unit 21 in the air conditioner 20, and directly or indirectly controls the operation of each device according to the control signals from each control unit.

[0104] Specifically, as Figure 2 shown, the integrated control unit 111 has: an input unit 111a, a processing unit 111b, an output unit 111c, and a storage unit 111d.

[0105] <5.1 Air supply control>

[0106] The integrated control unit 111 is linked with the air supply control unit 21, and controls the operation of the fan 29 according to the control signal from the air supply control unit 21.

[0107] In the air supply control, the input unit 111a receives information related to the start / end of the humidification operation output from the operation unit 41 and information related to the operation state (heating operation or cooling operation) of the temperature control unit 27 output from the operation unit 41, and outputs them to the processing unit 111b.

[0108] The storage unit 111d stores the information received by the input unit 111a, the setting information of the blower 29, etc. The stored information is output from the storage unit 111d to the processing unit 111b according to the request from the processing unit 111b.

[0109] The processing unit 111b outputs various information received by the input unit 111a and the setting information output from the storage unit 111d to the air supply control unit 21.

[0110] The air supply control unit 21 determines information related to the air supply operation of the blower 29 according to various information received from the processing unit 111b. Specifically, the air supply control unit 21 determines the time related to the start / end of the air supply operation in the blower 29 and the information related to the air supply volume.

[0111] The air supply control unit 21 outputs the determined information related to the air supply operation as control information to the processing unit 111b.

[0112] The processing unit 111b outputs the control information received from the air supply control unit 21 to the output unit 111c.

[0113] The output unit 111c outputs a signal related to the control information from the air supply control unit 21 to the blower 29.

[0114] The blower 29 performs an air supply operation according to the signal received from the output unit 111c of the integrated control unit 111.

[0115] In this way, the integrated control unit 111 starts the blower 29 as the space humidification and space purification processes start. Thereby, the air inside the air conditioner 20 is discharged into the target space S, and air (for example, the air in the target space S) is introduced from the return air duct 22. In addition, the introduced air is purified by the filter 23 to remove impurities (for example, dust).

[0116] <5.2 Hypochlorous Acid Control>

[0117] The integrated control unit 111 is linked with the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 to control the operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2. In addition, controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 is equivalent to controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26.

[0118] In hypochlorous acid control, the input unit 111a receives information related to the start / end of humidification operation output from the operation unit 41, information related to the output of space purification, information related to the set humidity of the space where the temperature and humidity sensor 40 is installed, and humidity information output from the temperature and humidity sensor 40, and outputs them to the processing unit 111b.

[0119] The storage unit 111d stores various information received by the input unit 111a and set information of hypochlorous acid water (information related to the opening / closing state of the tap water valve 6, the opening / closing state of the water stop valve 9, the flow rate and water passing time of the hypochlorous acid water pump 10, etc.). The stored information is output from the storage unit 111d to the processing unit 111b according to the request from the processing unit 111b.

[0120] The processing unit 111b outputs various information received by the input unit 111a and the set information output from the storage unit 111d to the hypochlorous acid control unit 3.

[0121] The hypochlorous acid control unit 3 determines information related to the supply operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 according to various information received from the processing unit 111b. Specifically, the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 determines the time related to the start or end of the supply operation in the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, and information related to the water passing volume of the hypochlorous acid water pump 10.

[0122] Here, the start of supply of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 means setting the tap water valve 6 and the water stop valve 9 to the "open" state and setting the water passing of the hypochlorous acid water pump 10 to the on state, and the end of supply of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 means setting the tap water valve 6 and the water stop valve 9 to the "closed" state and setting the water passing of the hypochlorous acid water pump 10 to the off state.

[0123] The hypochlorous acid control unit 3 uses the determined information related to the supply operation as control information and outputs it to the processing unit 111b.

[0124] The processing unit 111b outputs the control information received from the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 to the output unit 111c.

[0125] The output unit 111c outputs a signal related to the control information from the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 to the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 (tap water valve 6, water stop valve 9, and hypochlorous acid water pump 10).

[0126] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 performs a supply operation of supplying hypochlorous acid water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 according to the signal received from the output unit 111c of the integrated control unit 111.

[0127] In this manner, as the space purification process starts, the integrated control unit 111 activates the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2. Thus, hypochlorous acid water having a predetermined hypochlorous acid concentration is supplied to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26.

[0128] As a result, the air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generator 26 is released from the air supply duct 30 to the target space S by the blower 29. Hypochlorous acid is released into the target space S at a set concentration, thereby sterilizing or disinfecting the target space S.

[0129] <5.3 Humidification control>

[0130] The integrated control unit 111 cooperates with the humidification control unit 103 to control the operation of the water supply device 100. In addition, controlling the operation of the water supply device 100 is equivalent to controlling the operation of the humidification unit 126.

[0131] In humidification control, the input unit 111a receives information on the start / end of humidification operation output from the operation unit 41, information on the set humidity of the space where the temperature and humidity sensor 40 is installed, and humidity information output from the temperature and humidity sensor 40, and outputs it to the processing unit 111b.

[0132] The storage unit 111d stores various information received by the input unit 111a and humidification setting information (information on the opening and closing state of the water valve 106 and water flow time, etc.). The stored information is output from the storage unit 111d to the processing unit 111b in response to a request from the processing unit 111b.

[0133] The processing unit 111 b outputs various information received by the input unit 111 a and the humidification setting information output from the storage unit 111 d to the humidification control unit 103 .

[0134] The humidification control unit 103 determines information related to the supply operation of the water supply device 100 based on various information received from the processing unit 111b. Specifically, the humidification control unit 103 determines information about the timing (opening and closing state of the tap water valve 106) related to the start / end of the supply operation in the water supply device 100. Here, the start of supply by the water supply device 100 refers to setting the tap water valve 106 to the "open" state, and the end of supply by the water supply device 100 refers to setting the tap water valve 106 to the "closed" state.

[0135] The humidification control unit 103 outputs the determined information on the supply operation to the processing unit 111 b as control information.

[0136] The processing unit 111b outputs the control information received from the humidification control unit 103 to the output unit 111c.

[0137] The output unit 111c outputs a signal related to the control information from the humidification control unit 103 to the water supply device 100 (tap water valve 106).

[0138] The water supply device 100 performs a supply operation of supplying water to the humidification unit 126 according to the signal received from the output unit 111c of the integrated control unit 111.

[0139] In this way, as the start of the space humidification process, the integrated control unit 111 starts the water supply device 100. Thereby, water is supplied to the humidification unit 126. As a result, the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit 126 is released from the air supply pipe 30 to the target space S by the blower 29. Air is released into the target space S according to the set humidification amount, thereby humidifying the target space S.

[0140] <6. Effects, etc.>

[0141] As described above, in the space purification device 1 of the present embodiment, by controlling the operation of the water supply device 100, the presence or absence of water supply to the humidification unit 126 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the humidification amount introduced into the air flowing inside can be adjusted. In addition, by controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, the presence or absence of supplying hypochlorous acid water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, the supply amount, and the hypochlorous acid water concentration are adjusted, so that the amount of hypochlorous acid gas introduced into the air flowing inside can be adjusted.

[0142] At this time, by independently controlling the water supply device 100 (humidification unit 126) and the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 26), the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas are independently adjusted, so that the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be flexibly adjusted in the space purification device 1.

[0143] As described above, according to the space purification device 1 of the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0144] (1) The space purification device 1 includes: a hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 provided in the air flow path 38 and capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; a humidification unit 126 provided in the air flow path 38 for humidifying air; a blower 29 that releases the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 and the humidification unit 126 to the target space; and an integrated control unit 111 that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 and the humidification unit 126. The integrated control unit 111 can control the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 and the humidification unit 126 separately.

[0145] According to such a structure, since the integrated control unit 111 can separately control the generation of hypochlorous acid gas by the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 and the humidification by the humidification unit 126, in terms of the space purification device 1 that is difficult to achieve in the existing structure, a space purification device 1 that can flexibly adjust the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0146] (2) The space purification device 1 further includes: a hypochlorous acid control unit 3 that determines information related to the operation of supplying hypochlorous acid water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 based on the information received from the integrated control unit 111; a humidification control unit 103 that determines information related to the operation of supplying water to the humidification unit 126 based on the information received from the integrated control unit 111 and outputs it to the integrated control unit 111. The integrated control unit 111 is linked with the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 and the humidification control unit 103 and can separately control the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 and the humidification unit 126.

[0147] Thus, by distributing the processing to the integrated control unit 111, the hypochlorous acid control unit 3, and the humidification control unit 103, the load during the processing of each control unit becomes lighter, enabling high-speed control.

[0148] (3) In the space purification device 1, the hypochlorous acid control unit 3 controls the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 through the control of the integrated control unit 111, thereby adjusting the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the air released into the target space S. The humidification control unit 103 controls the humidification unit 126 through the control of the integrated control unit 111, thereby adjusting the amount of humidification contained in the air released into the target space S.

[0149] Thus, it is possible to independently adjust the generation amount of hypochlorous acid gas by the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 and the humidification amount by the humidification unit 126, and considering the amount of humidification in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26, humidification is performed in the humidification unit 126 to supplement the insufficient part. Therefore, in the space purification device 1, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0150] (4) In the space purification device 1, the humidification unit 126 is a filter-type gas-liquid contact unit that drops water from the water supply device 100 and vaporizes it.

[0151] Thus, the humidification unit 126 can perform humidification according to the amount of water flowing into the gas-liquid contact unit, so in the space purification device 1, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0152] (5) In the space purification device 1, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is arranged upstream of the humidification unit 126 with respect to the air flow flowing into the air circulation path 38.

[0153] Under high humidity conditions such as in the Japanese summer, the generation of hypochlorous acid gas is sometimes inhibited. However, in this example, since the generation of hypochlorous acid gas in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is not affected by the humidification from the humidification unit 126, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device 1.

[0154] (6) The space purification device 1 further includes a temperature adjustment unit 27, which is provided on the upstream side of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 in the air flow path 38, and adjusts the temperature of the air flowing into the air flow path 38. The temperature adjustment unit 27 heats the air according to the required amount of humidification for the humidification unit 126.

[0155] Thus, by heating the air, the humidification of the humidification unit 126 can be carried out quickly, and the amount of humidification of the humidification unit 126 can be adjusted flexibly. Therefore, in the space purification device 1, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0156] (Second Embodiment)

[0157] Next, with reference to Figure 3 , the space purification device 1a of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0158] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the space purification device 1a of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] In the space purification device 1 of the first embodiment, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26 is arranged on the upstream side of the humidification unit 126 with respect to the inflowing air current. However, in the space purification device 1a of the second embodiment, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a and the humidification unit 126a are arranged side by side with respect to the inflowing air current. That is, in the space purification device 1a, a part of the air flowing into the interior flows through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a, and the remaining part flows through the humidification unit 126a.

[0160] In addition, in the space purification device 1, as the humidification unit 126, a filter-type gas-liquid contact unit that drops water from the water supply device 100 and vaporizes it is used. However, in the space purification device 1a, a water evaporation unit is used as the humidification unit 126a.

[0161] Based on the above modifications, the water supply device 100a is configured as follows: an evaporation tank 127 is newly arranged, the water supplied from the water supply unit 104a is introduced into the evaporation tank 127, and the water evaporated in the evaporation tank 127 is conveyed to the humidification unit 126a.

[0162] In addition, the structure and control method of the space purification device 1a are the same as those of the space purification device 1 in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the repeated descriptions of the contents already described in the first embodiment will be appropriately omitted, and the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0163] <1. Overall Structure>

[0164] The space purification device 1a also independently controls the water flow of hypochlorous acid water that comes into gas-liquid contact and the water flow to the evaporation section that evaporates water, respectively, according to the set values set by the user.

[0165] Specifically, as Figure 3 shown, the space purification device 1a includes a hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, a water supply device 100a, an air conditioning device 20a, and a comprehensive control unit 111.

[0166] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 includes a water supply section 4, a hypochlorous acid water supply section 7, and a hypochlorous acid control section 3.

[0167] The water supply device 100a includes a water supply section 104a and a humidification control section 103a.

[0168] The air conditioning device 20a includes: a return air duct 22, a filter 23, a temperature control section 27, a hypochlorous acid generation section 26a, a humidification section 126a, a blower 29, a supply air duct 30, a drain pan 31, a drain flow path 32, a supply air control section 21, a temperature and humidity sensor 40, and an operation section 41.

[0169] The temperature control section 27 includes an air cooler 24, an air heater 25, a heat source device 33, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 34 to 37).

[0170] The comprehensive control unit 111 is communicably connected to the hypochlorous acid control section 3 in the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, the humidification control section 103a in the water supply device 100a, and the supply air control section 21 in the air conditioning device 20a by wireless or wired means, and directly or indirectly controls the operations of the respective devices according to the control signals from the respective control sections.

[0171] <2. Hypochlorous Acid Water Supply Device>

[0172] Since it is the same as the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 in the first embodiment, its description is omitted.

[0173] <3. Water Supply Device>

[0174] The water supply device 100a is a device that evaporates the water supplied from the water supply section 104a and introduced into the evaporation tank 127 and then supplies it to the humidification section 126a. Specifically, the water supply device 100 has a water supply section 104a, an evaporation tank 127, a steam pipe 129, and a steam valve 130.

[0175] The water supply unit 104a supplies city water flowing in from an external equipment water supply pipe (not shown) to the evaporation tank 127. The water supply unit 104a includes a water supply pipe 105a and a water supply valve 106a. The water supply pipe 105a is a pipe that communicatively connects between the external equipment water supply pipe and the evaporation tank 127. The water supply valve 106a is provided in the water supply pipe 105a. The water supply valve 106a is communicatively connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means and opens and closes according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. Thus, city water can be introduced into or stopped from being introduced into the evaporation tank 127. The water supply valve 106a can use an electromagnetic valve.

[0176] The evaporation tank 127 is a component that evaporates the city water flowing in from the water supply unit 104a. The evaporation tank 127 includes a heating evaporation unit 128. The heating evaporation unit 128 heats the water introduced into the evaporation tank 127 to evaporate it.

[0177] The steam pipe 129 is a pipe that communicatively connects between the humidifying unit 126a and the evaporation tank 127. The steam valve 130 is provided in the steam pipe 129. The steam valve 130 and the heating evaporation unit 128 are communicatively connected to the integrated control unit 111 by wireless or wired means and switch to an on state or an off state according to a signal from the integrated control unit 111. Thus, steam can be introduced into or stopped from being introduced into the humidifying unit 126a from the water supply device 100a.

[0178] <4. Air conditioning device>

[0179] The air conditioning device 20a adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air introduced from the outside and the target space S, and at the same time vaporizes the hypochlorous acid water sent out from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 and releases it into the target space S, thereby performing disinfection or sterilization of the target space S.

[0180] In the air conditioning device 20a, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a and the humidifying unit 126a are arranged side by side with respect to the air flow flowing into the inside. More specifically, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is arranged vertically above the humidifying unit 126a.

[0181] The humidifying unit 126a is a unit that is provided in the space of the air flow flowing into the inside and humidifies the air, and releases the steam introduced from the water supply device 100a to humidify. The humidifying unit 126a is provided at the subsequent stage of the temperature control unit 27 and the previous stage of the air supply pipe 30.

[0182] The humidifying unit 126a is communicatively connected to the water supply device 100a via the steam pipe 129. The humidifying unit 126a has a structure capable of releasing the steam sent out from the water supply device 100a. That is, the humidifying unit 126a can be said to be a water evaporation unit that uses steam for humidification.

[0183] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is arranged in such a way that the air flowing into it circulates, and it is a unit that generates hypochlorous acid gas using hypochlorous acid water. The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is arranged at the rear stage of the temperature control unit 27 and the front stage of the air supply pipe 30 with respect to the inflowing air current.

[0184] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is arranged in the upper space of the humidifying unit 126a, and makes the circulating air contain hypochlorous acid gas (hypochlorous acid water sent out from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2). The hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a has a structure (such as a vaporization filter) that can contain the hypochlorous acid water sent out from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2. The planar part (the air circulation surface) of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is about half the area of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26.

[0185] As described above, in the air conditioning device 20a, in the space at the rear stage of the temperature control unit 27 and the front stage of the air supply pipe 30, the humidifying unit 126a and the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a are arranged side by side. This arrangement can also be said that in the air conditioning device 20a, in the space at the rear stage of the temperature control unit 27 and the front stage of the air supply pipe 30, two air paths, namely the humidifying air path where the humidifying unit 126a is arranged and the purification air path where the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is arranged, are arranged side by side, and the air flowing into the interior circulates in each air path.

[0186] The operation control of the integrated control unit 111 is the same as that of the first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0187] <5. Effects, etc.>

[0188] As described above, in the space purification device 1a of the present embodiment, by controlling the operation of the water supply device 100a, the presence or absence of supplying water vapor to the humidifying unit 126a and the supply amount are adjusted, so the humidifying amount introduced into the air flowing inside can be adjusted. In addition, by controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2, the presence or absence of supplying hypochlorous acid water to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a, the supply amount, and the hypochlorous acid water concentration are adjusted, so the amount of hypochlorous acid gas introduced into the air flowing inside can be adjusted.

[0189] At this time, by independently controlling the water supply device 100a (humidifying unit 126a) and the hypochlorous acid water supply device 2 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a), the humidifying amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas are independently adjusted. Therefore, in the space purification device 1a, the humidifying amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be flexibly adjusted. In particular, the humidifying unit 126a and the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a are arranged side by side. Thus, it is possible to prevent the hypochlorous acid gas generated from the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a from being attenuated due to humidification.

[0190] As described above, according to the space purification device 1a of the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0191] (7) In the space purification device 1a, the humidifying unit 126a is a water evaporation unit that humidifies using water vapor.

[0192] Therefore, the humidifying unit 126a can humidify according to the amount of water vapor. Thus, in the space purification device 1a, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0193] (8) In the space purification device 1a, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a is arranged side by side with the humidifying unit 126a for the air flow flowing into the air circulation path 38.

[0194] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the attenuation of the hypochlorous acid gas generated from the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a due to humidification. Thus, in the space purification device 1a, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0195] (9) The space purification device 1a further includes a temperature adjustment unit 27. The temperature adjustment unit 27 is provided on the upstream side of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 26a in the air circulation path 38 and adjusts the temperature of the air flowing into the air circulation path 38. The temperature adjustment unit 27 heats the air according to the required amount of humidification for the humidifying unit 126a.

[0196] Therefore, through the heating of the air, the humidification of the humidifying unit 126a can be carried out quickly. Since the amount of humidification of the humidifying unit 126a can be adjusted flexibly, in the space purification device 1a, the amount of humidification and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0197] As described above, the present invention has been described according to the embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are exemplary, and there can be various variations in the combination of these constituent elements or each processing procedure, and these variations are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0198] (Third Embodiment)

[0199] Next, the space purification devices of the third to fifth embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0200] As an existing space purification device, there is known a sterilization air-conditioning system as follows: a vaporization filter is provided so as to cover the cross-section of the air passage of the air-conditioning device, and sterilizing water is supplied to the vaporization filter to form a water film, thereby bringing the air-conditioning air into contact with the sterilizing water for sterilization (for example, refer to Patent Document 1). In particular, when using hypochlorous acid water as the sterilizing water, by containing hypochlorous acid in the air-conditioning air, the air-conditioning air itself has a sterilization effect.

[0201] However, in a space purification device based on the vaporization filtration method, when hypochlorous acid water is used as the sterilizing water introduced into the vaporization filter (element), the concentration of hypochlorous acid water is usually constant. Therefore, according to the amount of humidity contained in the flowing air, the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the air blown into the target space is determined. That is, the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas cannot be adjusted separately.

[0202] The present invention is proposed to solve the above problems, and provides a technology for flexibly adjusting the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas in a space purification device.

[0203] The space purification device of the present invention includes: a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows air to flow through the inflow air passage, and is used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit, which humidifies a part, i.e., the first part, of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit; a hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows a second part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit, different from the first part, to flow through, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; and a blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the humidified air and released into the target space.

[0204] In addition, another space purification device of the present invention includes: a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows air to flow through the inflow air passage, and is used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit, which humidifies a part, i.e., the first part, of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit; a hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows a second part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit, different from the first part, to flow through, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; and a blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the first part of the temperature-adjusted air and introduced into the humidification unit.

[0205] In addition, another space purification device of the present invention includes: a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows air to flow through the inflow air passage, and is used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit, which humidifies the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit; a blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space; and a hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows a part of the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit and before being released into the target space to flow through, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the humidified air before being released into the target space and released into the target space.

[0206] According to the present invention, a technology can be provided for flexibly adjusting the amount of humidity and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas in a space purification device.

[0207] The space purification device of the present invention includes: a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged in a way that air in the inflow air passage circulates, and is used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit, which humidifies a part, i.e., the first part, of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit; a hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is arranged in a way that a second part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit and different from the first part circulates, and can generate hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; and a blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the humidified air and released into the target space.

[0208] According to such a structure, as a part of the temperature-adjusted air, i.e., the second part, is introduced as the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit, compared with the case of directly introducing external air, the temperature deviation of the introduced air can be suppressed, and the generation amount (supply amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be stabilized. In addition, after separately adjusting the humidification of the first part of the temperature-adjusted air by the humidification unit and the supply of hypochlorous acid gas to the second part of the temperature-adjusted air by the hypochlorous acid generation unit, the air containing hypochlorous acid gas can be mixed with the humidified air and released into the target space. In other words, in terms of a space purification device that is difficult to achieve in the existing structure, a space purification device that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0209] In addition, the space purification device of the present invention may also include a control unit for controlling the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit. The control unit adjusts the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit, and the control unit adjusts the humidification amount contained in the humidified air released into the target space by controlling the temperature adjustment unit and the humidification unit. In this way, the adjustment of the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the adjustment of the humidification amount can also be independently performed. Therefore, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be more flexibly adjusted in the space purification device.

[0210] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, it is preferable that the flow rate of the second part of the temperature-adjusted air is less than the flow rate of the first part of the temperature-adjusted air. Thus, further, when the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the temperature-adjusted air, since the flow rate of the second part where the temperature and humidity may change dynamically is relatively small, the change in temperature and humidity caused by the mixing can be further suppressed.

[0211] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid generation unit may also release the second part of the circulated temperature-adjusted air into the hypochlorous acid water as bubbles to generate hypochlorous acid gas. In this way, the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit can also contain more hypochlorous acid gas. Therefore, a sterilization effect can be quickly obtained in the space purification device.

[0212] In addition, other space purification devices of the present invention include: a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged to allow the air flowing into the air passage to circulate and is used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit, which humidifies a part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit, i.e., the first part; a hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is arranged to allow a second part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit, different from the first part, to circulate and can generate hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; and a blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the first part of the temperature-adjusted air and introduced into the humidification unit.

[0213] According to such a structure, as the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit, a part of the temperature-adjusted air, i.e., the second part, is introduced. Therefore, compared with the case of directly introducing external air, the temperature deviation of the introduced air can be suppressed, the generation amount (endowment amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be stabilized, and the temperature-adjusted air containing hypochlorous acid gas can be humidified by the humidification unit and released into the target space. At this time, the humidification control in the humidification unit can be performed according to the humidification amount provided to the second part of the temperature-adjusted air in the hypochlorous acid generation unit. In other words, in terms of a space purification device that is difficult to achieve in the existing structure, a space purification device that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0214] In addition, another space purification device of the present invention may also include a control unit that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit. The control unit adjusts the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit, and the control unit adjusts the humidification amount contained in the humidified air released into the target space by controlling the temperature adjustment unit and the humidification unit. In this way, the adjustment of the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the adjustment of the humidification amount can also be performed independently. Therefore, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0215] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, it is preferable that the flow rate of the second part of the temperature-adjusted air is less than the flow rate of the first part of the temperature-adjusted air. Thus, when the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the temperature-adjusted air, the flow rate of the second part, where the temperature is likely to change dynamically, is relatively small, so the change in temperature can be further suppressed. Therefore, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0216] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid generation unit may also release the second part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through it as bubbles into the hypochlorous acid water to generate hypochlorous acid gas. In this way, the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit can also contain more hypochlorous acid gas. Therefore, the sterilization effect can be obtained quickly in the space purification device.

[0217] In addition, other space purification devices of the present invention include: a temperature adjustment unit configured to allow the air flowing into the air passage to circulate and used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit configured to humidify the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit; a blowing unit configured to release the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space; and a hypochlorous acid generation unit configured to allow a part of the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit and the air before being released into the target space to circulate, and capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the humidified air before being released into the target space and then released into the target space.

[0218] According to such a structure, since a part of the humidified air is introduced as the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit, compared with the case of directly introducing external air, the temperature and humidity deviation of the introduced air can be suppressed, the generation amount (dispensing amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be stabilized, and moreover, it is not affected by the humidification amount of the temperature-adjusted air, and the generation amount (supply amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be controlled. At this time, compared with the case of introducing dry air (air before humidification), humidified air that is difficult to humidify is introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit, so the influence of the humidity changed by the hypochlorous acid generation unit can be alleviated. In other words, in terms of a space purification device that is difficult to achieve with the existing structure, a space purification device that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0219] In addition, since the hypochlorous acid gas is mixed after humidification, there is no need to change the air conditions thereafter. Therefore, even when there are multiple target spaces, the hypochlorous acid gas can also be introduced only into a specific air passage after branching. Therefore, it can be used as a space purification device that effectively uses hypochlorous acid gas only for selectively sterilizing easily contaminated spaces.

[0220] In addition, other space purification devices of the present invention may also include a control unit for controlling the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit. The control unit adjusts the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit, and the control unit adjusts the humidification amount contained in the humidified air released into the target space by controlling the temperature adjustment unit and the humidification unit. In this way, the adjustment of the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the adjustment of the humidification amount can be independently performed. Therefore, in the space purification device, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0221] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, it is preferable that the flow rate of a part of the humidified air is less than the flow rate of the part other than the humidified air. Thus, when the air that has passed through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the air that has been temperature-controlled and humidified, the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit where the temperature may change dynamically is relatively small, so that the change in temperature and humidity caused by the mixing can be further suppressed. Therefore, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly in the space purification device.

[0222] In addition, in the space purification device of the present invention, the hypochlorous acid generation unit may also release a part of the flowing humidified air as bubbles into the hypochlorous acid water to generate hypochlorous acid gas. In this way, more hypochlorous acid gas can be contained in the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit. Therefore, a sterilization effect can be obtained quickly in the space purification device.

[0223] The following embodiments are examples of embodying the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, in all the drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components and the description thereof is omitted. In addition, for the sake of avoiding repetition, the details of the parts not directly related to the present invention are omitted in the description of each drawing.

[0224] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0225] Refer to Figure 4 to describe the space purification device 201 of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0226] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the space purification device 201 of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0227] <1. Overall Structure>

[0228] As a system, the space purification device 201 uses hypochlorous acid sterilizing water (sterilizing water can also be called hypochlorous acid water) to release hypochlorous acid gas into the air to sterilize the target space S. At the same time, it uses the city water obtained from the outside to humidify through gas-liquid contact to humidify the target space S. At this time, the space purification device 201 independently controls the release of hypochlorous acid gas and the water supply to the humidifying part according to the set values set by the user.

[0229] Specifically, as Figure 4 shown, the space purification device 201 includes a hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204, an air conditioning device 220, a water supply device 300, and a comprehensive control unit 311.

[0230] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 includes a hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, a blower pump 205, and a hypochlorous acid control unit 203.

[0231] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 includes a hypochlorous acid water pump 210 and a hypochlorous acid water tank 211.

[0232] The water supply device 300 includes a water supply unit 304 and a humidification control unit 303.

[0233] In addition, the air conditioning device 220 includes: a return air duct 222, a filter 223, a temperature control unit 227, a suction port 226, a hypochlorous acid supply port 228, a humidification unit 326, a fan 229, a supply air duct 230, a drain pan 231, a drain flow path 232, a supply air control unit 221, a temperature and humidity sensor 240, and an operation unit 241.

[0234] The temperature control unit 227 includes an air cooler 224, an air heater 225, a heat source device 233, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 234 to 237).

[0235] In addition, the integrated control unit 311 is communicably connected to the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 in the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204, the humidification control unit 303 in the water supply device 300, and the supply air control unit 221 in the air conditioning device 220 by wireless or wired means, and directly or indirectly controls the operations of the respective devices according to the control signals from the respective control units. In addition, the integrated control unit 311 corresponds to the "control unit" in the claims.

[0236] Here, the integrated control unit 311, the supply air control unit 221, the hypochlorous acid control unit 203, and the humidification control unit 303 each have a computer system, and the computer system has a processor (computer) and a memory. The processor executes the program stored in the memory, and thereby, the computer system functions as each control unit (controller). In addition, the program executed by the processor is pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system here, but it may also be recorded in a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card for provision, or may be provided through a telecommunication line such as the Internet.

[0237] <2. Hypochlorous Acid Gas Supply Device>

[0238] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 is a device that generates hypochlorous acid gas by passing air through the hypochlorous acid water supplied from the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0239] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 includes a hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, a supply air pump 205, and a hypochlorous acid control unit 203.

[0240] The air supply pump 205 is connected to the air conditioner 220 through the suction air passage 206 and the suction port 226 described later, and by its operation, a part of the air inside the air conditioner 220, that is, the second part 251, is introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0241] The suction air passage 206 is a tubular air passage that connects the air conditioner 220 and the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. The suction air passage 206 is an air passage for allowing the temperature-controlled air 249 that has been temperature-controlled in the air conditioner 220 to pass through and be supplied to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0242] The air supply pump 205 is provided on the suction air passage 206. One end of the suction air passage 206 on the side of the air conditioner 220 is provided with a suction port 226. The other end of the suction air passage 206 on the side of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is inserted into the interior of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. By the operation of the air supply pump 205, the air (the second part 251 described later) sucked from the suction port 226 flows through the suction air passage 206.

[0243] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is connected to the air conditioner 220 through the supply air passage 207 and the hypochlorous acid supply port 228. By the operation of the air supply pump 205, the air (the second part 251) passing through the suction air passage 206 turns into bubbles and passes through the interior of the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0244] As a result, in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, more hypochlorous acid gas can be contained in the air compared to the method of allowing the air from the suction air passage 206 to pass through the surface of the stored hypochlorous acid water. In addition, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 corresponds to the "hypochlorous acid generation unit" in the claims.

[0245] The supply air passage 207 is a tubular air passage that connects the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the air conditioner 220. The supply air passage 207 is an air passage for allowing the purified air 253 containing hypochlorous acid gas that has passed through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 to pass through and be supplied to the air conditioner 220.

[0246] One end of the supply air passage 207 on the side of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is inserted into the upper space of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. The other end of the supply air passage 207 on the side of the air conditioner 220 is provided with a hypochlorous acid supply port 228. In the supply air passage 207, by the operation of the air supply pump 205, the purified air 253 released from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 flows through.

[0247] Details will be described later. The purified air 253 flowing through the supply air passage 207 is mixed with the humidified air 252 via the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 to become the mixed air 254.

[0248] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 is a device that uses a hypochlorous acid water pump 210 to supply high-concentration hypochlorous acid water stored inside a hypochlorous acid water tank 211 to a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. The hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 is connected to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 through a water supply pipe 208. By operating the hypochlorous acid water pump 210, hypochlorous acid water can be supplied to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0249] Specifically, the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 includes a hypochlorous acid water pump 210 and a hypochlorous acid water tank 211.

[0250] The hypochlorous acid water pump 210 is a water supply pump and is connected to the water supply pipe 208.

[0251] The hypochlorous acid water pump 210 is a device that allows hypochlorous acid water to flow from the hypochlorous acid water tank 211 to the water supply pipe 208. The hypochlorous acid water pump 210 is communicably connected to the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 by wireless or wired means and operates according to a signal from the hypochlorous acid control unit 203. By operating the hypochlorous acid water pump 210, hypochlorous acid water from the hypochlorous acid water tank 211 can be introduced into or stopped from being introduced into the water supply pipe 208.

[0252] The hypochlorous acid control unit 203 inputs information related to the operation of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 to the integrated control unit 311 according to a signal from the integrated control unit 311. The hypochlorous acid control unit 203 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 311 by wireless or wired means.

[0253] According to the composition and operation of the above-mentioned respective components, the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 can, according to a signal from the integrated control unit 311, execute the supply of hypochlorous acid gas from the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 through the hypochlorous acid control unit 203, and supply the hypochlorous acid gas as a sterilizing component to the air conditioning device 220.

[0254] <3. Water supply device>

[0255] The water supply device 300 is a device that supplies water supplied from a water supply unit 304 to a humidifying unit 326.

[0256] The water supply unit 304 is a structure that supplies city water flowing in from an external equipment water supply pipe (not shown) to the humidifying unit 326 of the air conditioning device 220. The water supply unit 304 has a water supply pipe 305 and a water supply valve 306.

[0257] The water supply pipe 305 is a pipe that communicably connects the external equipment water supply pipe and the humidifying unit 326 of the air conditioning device 220. The water supply valve 306 is communicably connected to the humidifying control unit 303 by wireless or wired means and opens and closes according to a signal from the humidifying control unit 303. As the water supply valve 306, an electromagnetic valve can be used.

[0258] Thus, it is possible to introduce or stop introducing tap water into the humidifying unit 326.

[0259] Based on the signal from the integrated control unit 311, the humidifying control unit 303 inputs information related to the water supply from the water supply unit 304 to the air conditioner 220 to the integrated control unit 311. The humidifying control unit 303 is communicably connected to the integrated control unit 311 by wireless or wired means.

[0260] In this way, according to the signal from the integrated control unit 311, the water supply device 300 performs the water supply of the water supply unit 304 by the humidifying control unit 303, and supplies the water required for humidification in the humidifying unit 326 to the air conditioner 220.

[0261] <4. Air conditioner>

[0262] The air conditioner 220 adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air introduced from the outside and the target space S, and at the same time mixes the air with the hypochlorous acid gas sent out from the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 and releases it to the target space S, thereby performing disinfection or sterilization of the target space S.

[0263] The air conditioner 220 includes: a return air duct 222, a filter 223, a temperature adjustment unit 227, a suction port 226, a hypochlorous acid supply port 228, a humidifying unit 326, a blower 229, a supply air duct 230, a drain pan 231, a drain flow path 232, a ventilation control unit 221, a temperature and humidity sensor 240, and an operation unit 241. An air path (air circulation path 238) from the return air duct 222 to the supply air duct 230 is formed in the air conditioner 220.

[0264] The air introduced into the air conditioner 220 (introduced air 248) sequentially passes through the return air duct 222, the filter 223, the temperature adjustment unit 227, the humidifying unit 326 (or the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209), and the blower 229 in the air path, and is discharged to the target space S outside the device through the supply air duct 230.

[0265] The return air duct 222 is an opening for introducing air into the air conditioner 220. The filter 223 removes impurities such as dust from the air (introduced air 248) introduced into the air path through the return air duct 222.

[0266] The filter 223 removes impurities such as dust from the introduced air 248. The air (introduced air 248a) passing through the filter 223 is ventilated to the temperature adjustment unit 227.

[0267] As described above, the temperature control unit 227 includes an air cooler 224, an air heater 225, a heat source device 233, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 234 to 237). The temperature control unit 227 controls the temperature of the introduced air 248a leading to the temperature control unit 227.

[0268] The introduced air 248a leading to the temperature control unit 227 ventilates the air cooler 224 and the air heater 225, and the temperature is adjusted by cooling with the air cooler 224 or heating with the air heater 225. In addition, the temperature control unit 227 corresponds to the "temperature control unit" in the claims.

[0269] The air cooler 224 is a unit that cools the air passing through it. The air cooler 224 is connected to the heat source device 233 through the flow paths 234 and 235. The cold water flows from the heat source device 233 through the flow path 234 and then into the air cooler 224, and the cold water passes through the air cooler 224. Heat exchange occurs between the introduced cold water and the air passing through the air cooler 224 to cool the air passing through it. The cold water that has undergone heat exchange flows through the flow path 235 and is sent back to the heat source device 233. At this time, the water generated by condensation is recovered by the drain pan 231. The air passing through the air cooler 224 ventilates the air heater 225.

[0270] The air heater 225 is a unit that heats the air passing through it. The air heater 225 is connected to the heat source device 233 through the flow paths 236 and 237. The hot water flows from the heat source device 233 through the flow path 236 and then into the air heater 225, and the hot water passes through the air heater 225. Heat exchange occurs between the introduced hot water and the air passing through the air heater 225 to heat the air passing through it. The hot water that has undergone heat exchange flows through the flow path 237 and is sent back to the heat source device 233. The air passing through the air heater 225 ventilates the humidifying unit 326 (a part of which is the hypochlorous acid gas generation device 204).

[0271] The heat source device 233 is a device for cooling and heating water, and serves as a device for supplying cold water to the air cooler 224 and hot water to the air heater 225.

[0272] The flow path 234 is a flow path for sending the water cooled by the heat source device 233 from the heat source device 233 to the air cooler 224.

[0273] The flow path 235 is a flow path for sending the water passing through the air cooler 224 back to the heat source device 233.

[0274] The flow path 236 is a flow path for sending the water heated by the heat source device 233 from the heat source device 233 to the air heater 225.

[0275] The flow path 237 is a flow path for sending the water that has passed through the air heater 225 to the heat source device 233.

[0276] As described above, the temperature adjustment unit 227 is composed of various elements.

[0277] The temperature adjustment unit 227 is a unit provided on the upstream side of the humidifying unit 326, and is used to heat the air flowing into it according to the humidification required amount for the humidifying unit 326 input from the operation unit 241. The temperature adjustment unit 227 is communicably connected to the air supply control unit 221 by wireless or wired means and is controlled by the integrated control unit 311.

[0278] As the operating states of the temperature adjustment unit 227, there are two states: heating operation and cooling operation. The operating state selected by the operation unit 241 is stored in the integrated control unit 311 (or the air supply control unit 221). The integrated control unit 311 controls the temperature adjustment unit 227 by the air supply control unit 221 according to the humidification required amount for the humidifying unit 326 input from the operation unit 241 and the information related to the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 227 input from the air supply control unit 221.

[0279] The heating operation is an operating state in which the air passing through the temperature adjustment unit 227 is heated. In this case, the water is heated in the heat source device 233, and hot water is supplied to the air heater 225.

[0280] The cooling operation is an operating state in which the air passing through the temperature adjustment unit 227 is cooled. In this case, the water is cooled in the heat source device 233, and cold water is supplied to the air cooler 224.

[0281] As described above, the temperature adjustment unit 227 adjusts the temperature of the introduced introduced air 248a through the heat source device 233 and flows out as the temperature-adjusted air 249.

[0282] The suction port 226 is connected to one end of the suction air path 206, and is an opening for introducing a part of the temperature-adjusted air 249 as the second part 251 into the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209).

[0283] The suction port 226 is provided on the air path between the temperature adjustment unit 227 (air heater 225) and the humidifying unit 326. The air supply pump 205 operates, and thereby, the suction port 226 sucks a part of the temperature-adjusted air 249 flowing through the air path in the air conditioning device 220 as the second part 251. The detailed situation will be described later. The remaining main part of the temperature-adjusted air 249 is introduced into the humidifying unit 326 as the first part 250.

[0284] The hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is connected to the other end of the supply air passage 207, and is an opening for releasing the purified air 253 from the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209).

[0285] The hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is provided on the air passage from the humidifying unit 326 to the target space S. In the present embodiment, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is provided on the air passage of the air supply pipe 230 which is the subsequent stage (downstream) of the blower 229.

[0286] The air supply pump 205 operates, whereby the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 releases the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209) as the purified air 253. That is, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 releases the air (purified air 253) containing hypochlorous acid gas to the humidified air 252 obtained by humidifying the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249, as the mixed air 254 described later.

[0287] Here, in the case where the air supply pipe 230 branches to a plurality of target spaces S, by installing the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 after the branching, it is also possible to selectively sterilize the space that is easily contaminated.

[0288] The humidifying unit 326 is provided in such a manner that the air flowing into the interior circulates, and is a unit for humidifying the air, and is a filter type gas-liquid contact unit in which water droplets from the water supply unit 304 of the water supply device 300 drip and vaporize.

[0289] Specifically, the air passing through the humidifying unit 326 is the first part 250 branched from the temperature-controlled air 249. In addition, the humidifying unit 326 corresponds to the "humidifying unit" in the claims.

[0290] The humidifying unit 326 is provided at the previous stage of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 and at the previous stage of the air supply pipe 230. More specifically, the humidifying unit 326 is provided at the previous stage of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 and at the previous stage of the blower 229. The humidifying unit 326 is communicatively connected to the water supply device 300 via the water supply pipe 305 of the water supply unit 304.

[0291] The humidifying unit 326 has a structure (such as a vaporization filter) capable of containing the water sent from the water supply device 300. The humidifying unit 326 has a flat plate shape and has a large number of fibers, and can retain water between the fibers. The humidifying unit 326 is provided in such a manner that the return air pipe 222 faces the flat surface portion (air flow surface) of the humidifying unit 326.

[0292] The water sent out from the water supply device 300 is supplied from above the flat portion of the humidifying unit 326. Therefore, the air passing through the humidifying unit 326 can be humidified. That is, the humidifying unit 326 causes the water to flow from above the flat portion downward and vaporize. The air is humidified by the humidifying unit 326, and the humidified air is released into the target space S.

[0293] In addition, during the operation of the water supply device 300, since water is always supplied to the humidifying unit 326, the water that is not completely contained in the humidifying unit 326 flows downward and is collected by the drain pan 231.

[0294] In addition, in the present embodiment, the humidifying unit 326 uses a vaporization filter capable of containing water, but other methods can also be used as long as they have a humidifying function. For example, a steam pipe that generates high-temperature steam can also be used.

[0295] The blower 229 is a unit that releases the air flowing through the air duct in the air conditioner 220 into the target space S, generating an air flow from the return air duct 222 toward the supply air duct 230.

[0296] The blower 229 is provided at the rear stage of the humidifying unit 326 and the front stage of the supply air duct 230. Thus, the air used for disinfection or sterilization can flow into the air conditioner 220. The blower 229 releases the humidified air and the air containing hypochlorous acid (mixed air 254) into the target space S, enabling humidification of the target space S and disinfection or sterilization. In addition, the blower 229 is communicably connected to the air supply control unit 221 in a wireless or wired manner and is controlled by the integrated control unit 311 via the air supply control unit 221. In addition, the blower 229 corresponds to the "air supply unit" in the claims.

[0297] The supply air duct 230 is an opening for releasing the air in the air conditioner 220 into the target space S. The humidified air and the air containing hypochlorous acid are released from the supply air duct 230 into the target space S, enabling humidification of the space and disinfection or sterilization of the space.

[0298] The drain pan 231 is a tray for collecting the water in the air conditioner 220. The drain pan 231 is provided below the air cooler 224, the air heater 225, and the humidifying unit 326, and at least collects the water flowing out from the air cooler 224 and the humidifying unit 326.

[0299] The drain flow path 232 is a flow path for discharging the water accumulated in the air conditioner 220. The drain flow path 232 is connected to the drain pan 231 and discharges the water collected by the drain pan 231 to the outside of the device.

[0300] The temperature and humidity sensor 240 is disposed in the target space S, and detects the temperature and humidity (temperature and humidity) of the air in the target space S. The temperature and humidity sensor 240 is communicably connected to the air supply control unit 221 by wireless or wired means, and outputs the detected information related to the temperature and humidity to the air supply control unit 221.

[0301] The operation unit 241 is disposed in the target space S, and is a panel for the user to input information related to the start / end of each operation, etc.

[0302] <5. Control actions>

[0303] Next, with reference to Figure 5 , the control actions of the integrated control unit 311 of the space purification device 201 for the blower 229, the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204, and the humidifying unit 326 will be described.

[0304] Figure 5 It is a block diagram showing the structure of the integrated control unit 311 in the space purification device 201 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0305] The integrated control unit 311 is linked with the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202's hypochlorous acid control unit 203, the water supply device 300's humidifying control unit 303, and the air conditioning device 220's air supply control unit 221, and directly or indirectly controls the operations of the respective devices according to the control signals from the respective control units.

[0306] Specifically, as Figure 5 shown, the integrated control unit 311 has an input unit 311a, a processing unit 311b, an output unit 311c, and a storage unit 311d.

[0307] <5.1 Air supply control>

[0308] The integrated control unit 311 is linked with the air supply control unit 221, and controls the operation of the blower 229 according to the control signal from the air supply control unit 221.

[0309] In the air supply control, the input unit 311a receives information related to the start / end of the humidifying operation output from the operation unit 241, and information related to the operation state (heating operation or cooling operation) of the temperature adjusting unit 227 output from the operation unit 241, and outputs them to the processing unit 311b.

[0310] The storage unit 311d stores the information received by the input unit 311a, the setting information of the blower 229, etc. According to the request from the processing unit 311b, the stored information is output from the storage unit 311d to the processing unit 311b.

[0311] The processing unit 311b outputs various information received by the input unit 311a and setting information output from the storage unit 311d to the air supply control unit 221.

[0312] Based on the various information received from the processing unit 311b, the air supply control unit 221 determines information related to the air supply operation of the blower 229. Specifically, the air supply control unit 221 determines the time related to the start / end of the air supply operation in the blower 229 and the information on the air supply volume.

[0313] The air supply control unit 221 outputs the determined information related to the air supply operation as control information to the processing unit 311b.

[0314] The processing unit 311b outputs the control information received from the air supply control unit 221 to the output unit 311c.

[0315] The output unit 311c outputs a signal related to the control information from the air supply control unit 221 to the blower 229.

[0316] The blower 229 performs an air supply operation according to the signal received from the output unit 311c of the integrated control unit 311.

[0317] In this way, as the start of the space humidification and space purification processes, the integrated control unit 311 and the air supply control unit 221 are linked to start the blower 229. Thereby, the air inside the air conditioner 220 is discharged to the target space S, and air (for example, the air in the target space S) is introduced from the return air duct 222. In addition, the introduced air (introduced air 248) is passed through the filter 223 to remove impurities (for example, dust).

[0318] <5.2 Hypochlorous Acid Control>

[0319] The integrated control unit 311 is linked with the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 to control the operation of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 and the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202.

[0320] In the hypochlorous acid control, the input unit 311a receives information related to the start / end of the humidification operation, information related to the output of the space purification, information related to the set humidity of the space where the temperature and humidity sensor 240 is installed, and humidity information output from the temperature and humidity sensor 240, and outputs them to the processing unit 311b.

[0321] The storage unit 311d stores various information received by the input unit 311a and the set information of the hypochlorous acid gas (information related to the flow rate of the air supply pump 205, the flow rate of the hypochlorous acid water pump 210, and the operation time, etc.). According to the request from the processing unit 311b, the stored information is output from the storage unit 311d to the processing unit 311b.

[0322] The processing unit 311b outputs various information received by the input unit 311a and the setting information of the storage unit 311d to the hypochlorous acid control unit 203.

[0323] The hypochlorous acid control unit 203 determines information related to the supply operations of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 and the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 based on various information received from the processing unit 311b. Specifically, the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 determines the timing related to the start / end of the supply operation in the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 and the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, and information related to the flow rate of the hypochlorous acid water pump 210 and the air supply pump 205.

[0324] Here, the start of the supply of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 means that the water flow of the hypochlorous acid water pump 210 is set to the on state, and the end of the supply of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 means that the water flow of the hypochlorous acid water pump 210 is set to the off state.

[0325] In addition, the start of the supply of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 means that the air supply of the air supply pump 205 is set to the on state, and the end of the supply of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 means that the air supply of the air supply pump 205 is set to the off state.

[0326] The hypochlorous acid control unit 203 outputs the determined information related to the supply operation as control information to the processing unit 311b.

[0327] The processing unit 311b outputs the control information received from the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 to the output unit 311c.

[0328] The output unit 311c outputs a signal related to the control information from the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 to the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 and the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 (the air supply pump 205 and the hypochlorous acid water pump 210).

[0329] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 performs the supply operation of the hypochlorous acid gas according to the signal received from the output unit 311c of the integrated control unit 311.

[0330] In this way, as the start of the space purification process, the integrated control unit 311 and the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 cooperate to start the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204. Thereby, hypochlorous acid gas with a specified hypochlorous acid concentration is supplied from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228.

[0331] As a result, the air containing hypochlorous acid gas (purified air 253) flowing through the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is mixed with the humidified air 252 to become mixed air 254, which is released from the air supply pipe 230 into the target space S by the blower 229. Hypochlorous acid is released into the target space S at a set concentration, thereby disinfecting or sterilizing the target space S.

[0332] <5.3 Humidification Control>

[0333] The integrated control unit 311 is linked with the humidification control unit 303 to control the operation of the water supply device 300. In addition, controlling the operation of the water supply device 300 is equivalent to controlling the operation of the humidification unit 326.

[0334] In the humidification control, the input unit 311a receives information related to the start / end of the humidification operation output from the operation unit 241, information related to the set humidity of the space where the temperature and humidity sensor 240 is installed, and humidity information output from the temperature and humidity sensor 240, and outputs them to the processing unit 311b.

[0335] The storage unit 311d stores various information received by the input unit 311a and humidification setting information (information related to the opening / closing state of the tap water valve 306 and the water supply time, etc.). According to the request from the processing unit 311b, the stored information is output from the storage unit 311d to the processing unit 311b.

[0336] The processing unit 311b outputs various information received by the input unit 311a and the humidification setting information output from the storage unit 311d to the humidification control unit 303.

[0337] The humidification control unit 303 determines information related to the supply operation of the water supply device 300 based on various information received from the processing unit 311b. Specifically, the humidification control unit 303 determines the information about the time (opening / closing state of the tap water valve 306) related to the start / end of the supply operation in the water supply device 300. Here, the start of the supply of the water supply device 300 means setting the tap water valve 306 to the "open" state, and the end of the supply of the water supply device 300 means setting the tap water valve 306 to the "closed" state.

[0338] The humidification control unit 303 outputs the determined information related to the supply operation as control information to the processing unit 311b.

[0339] The processing unit 311b outputs the control information received from the humidification control unit 303 to the output unit 311c.

[0340] The output unit 311c outputs a signal related to the control information from the humidification control unit 303 to the water supply device 300 (tap water valve 306).

[0341] The water supply device 300 performs the operation of supplying water to the humidifying unit 326 according to the signal received from the output unit 311c of the integrated control unit 311.

[0342] In this way, as the start of the space humidifying process, the integrated control unit 311 and the humidifying control unit 303 are linked to start the water supply device 300. As a result, water is supplied to the humidifying unit 326. As a result, the humidifying air 252 flowing through the humidifying unit 326 is mixed with the purified air 253 to become the mixed air 254, which is released from the air supply duct 230 to the target space S by the blower 229. The mixed air 254 is released into the target space S according to the set humidification amount, thereby humidifying the target space S.

[0343] <6. Changes in air conditions>

[0344] Next, with reference to Figure 4 , the changes in air conditions related to the air flowing in the air duct of the air conditioner 220 will be described.

[0345] The air introduced into the air conditioner 220 according to the operation of the blower 229 sequentially flows through the return air duct 222, the filter 223, the temperature control unit 227, the humidifying unit 326, the blower 229, and the air supply duct 230. A part (the second part 251) of the temperature-controlled air 249 that has passed through the temperature control unit 227 is diverted to flow through the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 and then mixed with the humidifying air 252 in the air supply duct 230 and discharged to the target space S outside the device. At this time, for the air introduced into the air conditioner 220, its air conditions change in the order of the introduced air 248, the introduced air 248a, the temperature-controlled air 249, the humidifying air 252, and the mixed air 254.

[0346] First, the introduced air 248 is the air in the target space S that is introduced from the return air duct 222.

[0347] The introduced air 248a is the air that the introduced air 248 has passed through the filter 223. The introduced air 248a is the air from which dust and other impurities have been removed from the introduced air 248.

[0348] The temperature-controlled air 249 is the air that the introduced air 248a has passed through the temperature control unit 227 (the air cooler 224 and the air heater 225). That is, the temperature-controlled air 249 is the air whose temperature has been adjusted by the temperature control unit 227 for the introduced air 248a.

[0349] More specifically, the temperature-controlled air 249 is the air after the introduced air 248a is cooled by the air cooler 224 or the air after the introduced air 248a is heated by the air heater 225. Here, the temperature-controlled air 249 is adjusted to a preset temperature (e.g., 25 °C).

[0350] After that, the temperature-controlled air 249 flowing through the temperature control unit 227 branches into a first part 250 which is a part of the temperature-controlled air 249 and a second part 251 which is the remaining part of the temperature-controlled air 249 (the second part 251 different from the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249). Adjustment is made during the branching so that the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is less than that of the first part 250.

[0351] Specifically, the air volume of the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is set to 3000 m 3 / h to 6000 m 3 / h, the air volume of the second part 251 is set to 0.05 m 3 / h to 0.1 m 3 / h, and the air volume of the second part 251 is adjusted to be less than 0.1% of the air volume of the first part 250.

[0352] Thereby, when the second part 251 as the purified air 253 is mixed with the first part 250 as the humidified air 252, the influence of the temperature and humidity change generated by the second part 251 passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 can be suppressed.

[0353] The first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is the air introduced into the humidifying unit 326.

[0354] The second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209). After that, the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 flows through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and is released as the purified air 253 from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228.

[0355] At this time, since the second part 251 passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is the air adjusted to the preset temperature, the deviation of the supply amount of the hypochlorous acid gas caused by the temperature change of the introduced air can be made small.

[0356] The purified air 253 is the air after the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 passes through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. That is, the purified air 253 is the air containing hypochlorous acid gas in the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 by means of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. Here, regarding the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the purified air 253, considering the air volume ratio of the humidified air 252 and the purified air 253, it is set to a sufficiently high concentration to ensure that the preset concentration is reached after mixing.

[0357] The humidified air 252 is the air after the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 passes through the humidifying unit 326. That is, the humidified air 252 is the air whose humidity has been adjusted by the humidifying unit 326 for the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249. Here, the humidified air 252 is adjusted to a preset humidity (for example, 50% relative humidity).

[0358] The mixed air 254 is the air in which the purified air 253 from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is mixed into the humidified air 252 during the process of the humidified air 252 flowing through the air supply pipe 230.

[0359] The air flowing through the air passage of the air conditioning device 220 is released into the target space S after the above changes.

[0360] <7. Effects, etc.>

[0361] As described above, in the space purification device 201 of the present embodiment, by controlling the operation of the water supply device 300, the presence or absence of water supply to the humidifying unit 326 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the humidifying amount in the air (the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249) flowing through the interior can be adjusted. In addition, by controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204, the presence or absence of air supply to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the amount of hypochlorous acid gas in the air (the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249) flowing through the interior can be adjusted.

[0362] At this time, by independently controlling the water supply device 300 (humidifying unit 326) and the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204, and independently adjusting the humidifying amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas, the humidifying amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be flexibly adjusted in the space purification device 201.

[0363] As described above, according to the space purification device 201 of the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0364] (1) The space purification device 201 includes: a temperature adjustment unit 227, which is arranged in a way that air in the inflow air passage circulates, and is used to adjust the temperature of the air; a humidification unit 326, which humidifies a first part 250 of the air (temperature-adjusted air 249) flowing through the temperature adjustment unit 227; a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, which is arranged in a way that a second part 251 of the temperature-adjusted air 249 flowing through the temperature adjustment unit 227, different from the first part 250, circulates, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; and a blower 229, which releases the humidified air 252 flowing through the humidification unit 326 into the target space S. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas (purified air 253) flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is mixed with the humidified air 252 and released into the target space S.

[0365] According to such a structure, as the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, a part of the temperature-adjusted air 249, that is, the second part 251, is introduced. Therefore, compared with the case of directly introducing external air, the deviation of the introduced temperature can be suppressed, and the generation amount (supply amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be stabilized. In addition, the humidification of the first part 250 of the temperature-adjusted air 249 by the humidification unit 326 and the supply of hypochlorous acid gas to the second part 251 of the temperature-adjusted air 249 by the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 are respectively adjusted, and then the air containing hypochlorous acid gas (purified air 253) and the humidified air (humidified air 252) are mixed, and can be released into the target space S as the mixed air 254. In other words, in terms of the space purification device 201 that is difficult to achieve in the existing structure, a space purification device 201 that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0366] (2) The space purification device 201 includes an integrated control unit 311 that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the humidification unit 326. The integrated control unit 311 adjusts the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the mixed air 254 (humidified air 252) released into the target space S by controlling the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204. The integrated control unit 311 adjusts the humidification amount contained in the mixed air 254 (humidified air 252) released into the target space S by controlling the temperature adjustment unit 227 and the humidification unit 326. In this way, the adjustment of the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the adjustment of the humidification amount can also be independently performed. Therefore, in the space purification device 201, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0367] (3) In the space purification device 201, the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is less than that of the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249. Thus, when the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 (purified air 253) is mixed with the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249, the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251 where dynamic changes in temperature and humidity are likely to occur is relatively small, so that changes in temperature and humidity caused by mixing can be further suppressed.

[0368] (4) In the space purification device 201, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 releases the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air flowing through it as bubbles into the hypochlorous acid water, thereby generating hypochlorous acid gas. In this way, the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 (purified air 253) can also contain more hypochlorous acid gas. Therefore, a sterilization effect can be quickly obtained in the space purification device 201.

[0369] (5) In the space purification device 201, the position of the hypochlorous acid supply port is set at the downstream of the blower 229. Thus, the hypochlorous acid gas contained in the mixed air 254 does not pass through the blower 229 but is supplied to the target space S, and attenuation of the hypochlorous acid gas when passing through the blower 229 can be eliminated. Therefore, a sterilization effect can be quickly obtained in the space purification device 201.

[0370] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0371] Next, with reference to Figure 6 the space purification device 201a of the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0372] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the space purification device 201a of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0373] In the space purification device 201 of the third embodiment, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is arranged on the downstream side of the humidifying unit 326 with respect to the inflowing air current, but in the space purification device 201a of the fourth embodiment, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a is arranged on the upstream side of the humidifying unit 326 with respect to the inflowing air current.

[0374] Except for this, the structure and control method of the space purification device 201a are the same as those of the space purification device 201 of the third embodiment. Hereinafter, repeated descriptions of the contents already described in the third embodiment will be appropriately omitted, and the differences from the third embodiment will be mainly described.

[0375] <1. Overall Structure>

[0376] The space purification device 201a also independently controls the release of hypochlorous acid gas and the water supply to the humidifying unit according to the set values set by the user.

[0377] Specifically, as Figure 6 shown, the space purification device 201a includes a hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a, an air conditioning device 220a, a water supply device 300, and a comprehensive control unit 311.

[0378] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a includes a hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, a blower pump 205, and a hypochlorous acid control unit 203.

[0379] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 includes a hypochlorous acid water pump 210 and a hypochlorous acid water tank 211.

[0380] The water supply device 300 includes a water supply unit 304 and a humidifying control unit 303.

[0381] The air conditioning device 220a includes a return air duct 222, a filter 223, a temperature control unit 227, an air inlet 226, a hypochlorous acid supply port 228a, a humidifying unit 326, a blower 229, a supply air duct 230, a drain pan 231, a drain flow path 232, a blower control unit 221, a temperature and humidity sensor 240, and an operation unit 241.

[0382] The temperature control unit 227 includes an air cooler 224, an air heater 225, a heat source device 233, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 234 to 237).

[0383] The comprehensive control unit 311 is communicably connected to the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 in the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, the humidifying control unit 303 in the water supply device 300, and the blower control unit 221 in the air conditioning device 220a by wireless or wired means, and directly or indirectly controls the operations of the respective devices according to the control signals from the respective control units.

[0384] <2. Water supply device>

[0385] The water supply device 300 of the present embodiment is the same as the water supply device 300 of the third embodiment, so its description is omitted.

[0386] <3. Hypochlorous acid gas supply device>

[0387] As Figure 6 shown, the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a of the present embodiment is different from the third embodiment in that the connection position of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a in the supply air path 207a is different. The device structure and control of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 are the same as those of the third embodiment, so they are appropriately omitted.

[0388] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a is composed of a hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, and a blower pump 205.

[0389] The blower pump 205 is connected to the air conditioner 220a through an intake air passage 206 and an intake port 226, and is used to introduce a part of the air inside the air conditioner 220a, that is, the second part 251, into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0390] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is connected to the air conditioner 220a through a supply air passage 207a and a hypochlorous acid supply port 228a. According to the operation of the blower pump 205, the air (the second part 251) passing through the intake air passage 206 becomes bubble-shaped and passes through the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0391] Thus, in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, more hypochlorous acid gas can be contained in the air compared to the method of passing the air from the intake air passage 206 through the surface of the stored hypochlorous acid water. In addition, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 corresponds to the "hypochlorous acid generation unit" in the claims.

[0392] The supply air passage 207a is a tubular air passage connecting the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the air conditioner 220a. The supply air passage 207a is an air passage for allowing the purified air 253a containing hypochlorous acid gas after passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 to pass through and be supplied to the air conditioner 220a.

[0393] One end of the supply air passage 207a on the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 side is inserted into the upper space of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. A hypochlorous acid supply port 228a is provided at the other end of the supply air passage 207a on the air conditioner 220a side. According to the operation of the blower pump 205, thus, the purified air 253a released from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a flows through the supply air passage 207a. As will be described in detail later, the purified air 253a flowing through the supply air passage 207a is mixed with the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 to become mixed air 254a.

[0394] <4. Air conditioner>

[0395] As Figure 6 shown, the air conditioner 220a of the present embodiment is different from the third embodiment in that the setting position of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a communicating with the supply air passage 207a is different.

[0396] The device structure and control of the air conditioner 220a are the same as those of the third embodiment, so they are appropriately omitted.

[0397] The hypochlorous acid supply port 228a is an opening that is connected to the other end of the supply air passage 207a and is used to release the purified air 253a from the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209).

[0398] The hypochlorous acid supply port 228a is provided on the air passage at the stage after (downstream side) the suction port 226 and at the stage before (upstream side) the humidifying unit 326.

[0399] According to the operation of the air supply pump 205, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a releases the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209) as the purified air 253a. That is, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a releases the air containing hypochlorous acid gas (purified air 253a) to the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 as the mixed air 254a described later.

[0400] <5. Changes in air conditions>

[0401] Next, with reference to Figure 6 , the changes in air conditions related to the air flowing through the air passage of the air conditioning device 220a will be described.

[0402] The air introduced into the air conditioning device 220a according to the operation of the blower 229 flows through the return air duct 222, the filter 223, the temperature control unit 227, the humidifying unit 326, the blower 229, and the air supply duct 230 in sequence, and is discharged to the target space S outside the device.

[0403] In the present embodiment, during this flow process, a part (second part 251) of the temperature-controlled air 249 that has passed through the temperature control unit 227 is branched off and flows through the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204, and then is mixed with the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249. That is, in the present embodiment, for the air introduced into the air conditioning device 220, its air conditions change in the order of the introduced air 248, the introduced air 248a, the temperature-controlled air 249, the mixed air 254a, and the humidified air 252a.

[0404] The introduced air 248, the introduced air 248a, and the temperature-controlled air 249 in the present embodiment are the same as those in the third embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0405] The temperature-controlled air 249 flowing through the temperature control unit 227 branches into the first part 250 as a part of the temperature-controlled air 249 and the second part 251 as the remaining part of the temperature-controlled air 249 (the second part 251 different from the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249). Adjustment is made during the branching so that the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is less than the air volume (flow rate) of the first part 250.

[0406] Specifically, the air volume of the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is set to 3000 m 3 / h to 6000 m 3 / h, the air volume of the second part 251 is set to 0.05 m 3 / h to 0.1 m 3 / h, and the air volume of the second part 251 is adjusted to be less than 0.1% of the air volume of the first part 250.

[0407] Thus, when the second part 251 of the purified air 253a is mixed with the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249, the influence of the temperature and humidity change caused by the second part 251 passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 can be suppressed.

[0408] The first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is the air that flows to the humidifying unit 326 after branching.

[0409] The second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209). After that, the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 flows through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and is released as the purified air 253a from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a.

[0410] At this time, since the second part 251 passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is the air adjusted to a preset temperature, the deviation of the supply amount of the hypochlorous acid gas caused by the temperature change of the introduced air can be made small.

[0411] The purified air 253a is the air after the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 passes through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. That is, the purified air 253a is the air in which the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 contains hypochlorous acid gas by using the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. Here, considering the air volume ratio of the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 and the purified air 253a, the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the purified air 253a is set to a sufficiently high concentration to ensure that the preset concentration is reached after mixing.

[0412] The mixed air 254a is the air in which the purified air 253a from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228a is mixed into the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 during the process of the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 flowing through the air passage in front of the humidifying unit 326.

[0413] The humidified air 252a is the air after the mixed air 254a passes through the humidifying unit 326. That is, the humidified air 252a is the air whose humidity is adjusted by the humidifying unit 326 for the mixed air 254a. Here, the humidified air 252a is adjusted to a preset humidity (for example, relative humidity 50%) in a state containing hypochlorous acid gas.

[0414] The air flowing through the air passage of the air conditioning device 220a is released into the target space S after undergoing the above changes.

[0415] <6. Effects, etc.>

[0416] As described above, in the space purification device 201a of the present embodiment, by controlling the operation of the water supply device 300, the presence or absence of water supply to the humidifying unit 326 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the humidifying amount introduced into the air flowing through the interior (mixed air 254a) can be adjusted. In addition, by controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a, the presence or absence of air supply to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the amount of hypochlorous acid gas introduced into the air flowing through the interior (the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249) can be adjusted.

[0417] At this time, by independently controlling the water supply device 300 (humidifying unit 326) and the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a, the humidifying amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas are independently adjusted, so that the humidifying amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be flexibly adjusted in the space purification device 201.

[0418] Here, the air (the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249) that passes through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and whose temperature and humidity change merges with the first part 250 to become the mixed air 254a, and then is humidified. Therefore, it is impossible to be humidified again after flowing through the humidifying unit 326, and the risk of over-humidification occurring with respect to the set humidity can be reduced.

[0419] In addition, when the temperature and humidity sensor is provided at the pre-stage of the humidifying unit 326, since the change in the temperature and humidity after mixing can also be detected, it is also possible to feed back to the humidification control to reduce the risk of further over-humidification.

[0420] As described above, according to the space purification device 201a of the fourth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0421] (1a) The space purification device 201a includes: a temperature control unit 227, which is provided in such a way that the air flowing into the interior circulates, for adjusting the temperature of the air; a humidifying unit 326, which humidifies a part (temperature-controlled air 249) of the air flowing through the temperature control unit 227, that is, the first part 250; a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, which is provided in such a way that the second part 251 different from the first part 250 in the temperature-controlled air 249 flowing through the temperature control unit 227 circulates, and can generate hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water; a blower 229, which releases the humidified air 252 flowing through the humidifying unit 326 into the target space S. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is mixed with the temperature-controlled air and released into the target space S.

[0422] According to such a structure, the second part 251 which is a part of the temperature-controlled air 249 is introduced as the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. Therefore, compared with the case of directly introducing external air, by suppressing the deviation of the temperature of the introduced air, the generation amount (addition amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be stabilized. And, the temperature-controlled air 249 (mixed air 254a) of the air containing hypochlorous acid gas is humidified by the humidifying unit 326 and released into the target space S. At this time, the humidification control in the humidifying unit 326 can be performed according to the humidification amount provided to the temperature-controlled air 249 of the second part 251 in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. In other words, in terms of the space purification device 201a which is difficult to achieve in the existing structure, a space purification device 201a that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0423] (2a) The space purification device 201a further includes an integrated control unit 311 that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the humidifying unit 326. The integrated control unit 311 adjusts the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air 252a released into the target space S by controlling the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204a. The integrated control unit 311 adjusts the humidification amount contained in the humidified air 252a released into the target space S by controlling the temperature control unit 227 and the humidifying unit 326. In this way, the adjustment of the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the adjustment of the humidification amount can also be performed independently. Therefore, in the space purification device 201a, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0424] (3a) In the space purification device 201a, the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 is less than the air volume (flow rate) of the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249. Thus, when the air (purified air 253) that has passed through the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the first part 250 of the temperature-controlled air 249 are mixed, the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251 where the temperature is likely to change dynamically is relatively small, so the change in temperature can be further suppressed. Therefore, in the space purification device 201a, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0425] (4a) In the space purification device 201a, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 releases the second part 251 of the temperature-controlled air 249 flowing through it into the hypochlorous acid water as bubbles to generate hypochlorous acid gas. Thus, the air (purified air 253a) that has passed through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 can also contain more hypochlorous acid gas. Therefore, in the space purification device 201a, a sterilization effect can be obtained quickly.

[0426] (The fifth embodiment)

[0427] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the space purification device 201b of the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0428] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the space purification device 201b of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0429] In the space purification device 201 of the third embodiment, the suction port 226 is arranged on the downstream side of the temperature adjustment unit 227 with respect to the air flow in the air duct. However, in the space purification device 201b of the fifth embodiment, the suction port 226b is arranged on the air duct at the rear stage (downstream side) of the humidification unit 326 and the front stage (upstream side) of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 with respect to the air flow in the air duct.

[0430] Except for this, the structure and control method of the space purification device 201b are the same as those of the space purification device 201 of the third embodiment. Hereinafter, the repeated description of the content already described in the third embodiment will be appropriately omitted, and the differences from the third embodiment will be mainly described.

[0431] <1. Overall Structure>

[0432] The space purification device 201b also independently controls the release of hypochlorous acid gas and the water supply to the humidification unit according to the set values set by the user, respectively.

[0433] Specifically, as Figure 7 shown, the space purification device 201b includes a hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b, an air conditioning device 220b, a water supply device 300, and a comprehensive control unit 311.

[0434] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b includes a hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, a blower pump 205, and a hypochlorous acid control unit 203.

[0435] The hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 includes a hypochlorous acid water pump 210 and a hypochlorous acid water tank 211.

[0436] The water supply device 300 includes a water supply unit 304 and a humidification control unit 303.

[0437] The air conditioning device 220b includes a return air duct 222, a filter 223, a temperature adjustment unit 227, a humidification unit 326, a blower 229, a suction port 226b, a hypochlorous acid supply port 228, a supply air duct 230, a drain pan 231, a drain flow path 232, a blower control unit 221, a temperature and humidity sensor 240, and an operation unit 241.

[0438] The temperature adjustment unit 227 includes an air cooler 224, an air heater 225, a heat source device 233, and a plurality of flow paths (flow paths 234 to 237).

[0439] The integrated control unit 311 is communicably connected to the hypochlorous acid control unit 203 in the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, the humidification control unit 303 in the water supply device 300, and the air supply control unit 221 in the air conditioning device 220a by wireless or wired means, and directly or indirectly controls the operations of the respective devices according to the control signals from the respective control units.

[0440] <2. Water supply device>

[0441] The water supply device 300 of the present embodiment is the same as the water supply device 300 of the third embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0442] <3. Hypochlorous acid gas supply device>

[0443] As Figure 7 shown, the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b of the fifth embodiment is different from the third embodiment in that the connection position of the suction port 226b of the suction air passage 206b is different. The device structure and control of the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 are the same as those of the third embodiment, so the description thereof is appropriately omitted.

[0444] The hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b is composed of a hypochlorous acid water supply device 202, a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, and a blower pump 205.

[0445] The blower pump 205 is connected to the air conditioning device 220b through the suction air passage 206b and the suction port 226b, and is used to introduce a part of the air inside the air conditioning device 220b, that is, the second part 251b, into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0446] The suction air passage 206b is a tubular air passage that connects the air conditioning device 220b and the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. The suction air passage 206b is an air passage for allowing the humidified air 252b humidified in the air conditioning device 220b to pass through and supplying it to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0447] The blower pump 205 is provided on the suction air passage 206b. The suction port 226b is provided at one end of the suction air passage 206b on the side of the air conditioning device 220b. The other end of the suction air passage 206b on the side of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is inserted into the inside of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. According to the operation of the blower pump 205, the air (the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b) sucked from the suction port 226b flows through the suction air passage 206b.

[0448] The hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is connected to the air conditioner 220b through the supply air passage 207 and the hypochlorous acid supply port 228. According to the operation of the air supply pump 205, the air (the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b) after passing through the suction air passage 206b becomes bubble-shaped and passes through the interior of the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209.

[0449] Thereby, in the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, more hypochlorous acid gas can be contained in the air compared with the method of passing the air from the suction air passage 206b through the surface of the stored hypochlorous acid water. In addition, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 corresponds to the "hypochlorous acid generation unit" in the claims.

[0450] The supply air passage 207 is a tubular air passage connecting the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the air conditioner 220b. The supply air passage 207 is an air passage through which the purified air 253b containing hypochlorous acid gas after passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 passes and is supplied to the air conditioner 220b.

[0451] One end of the supply air passage 207 on the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 side is inserted into the upper space of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. A hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is provided at the other end of the supply air passage 207 on the air conditioner 220 side. According to the operation of the air supply pump 205, the purified air 253b released from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 flows through the supply air passage 207. Although the details will be described later, the purified air 253b flowing through the supply air passage 207 is mixed with the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b via the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 to become the mixed air 254b.

[0452] <4. Air conditioner>

[0453] As Figure 7 shown, the air conditioner 220b of the present embodiment is different from the third embodiment in that the installation position of the suction port 226b communicating with the suction air passage 206b is different.

[0454] The device structure and control of the air conditioner 220b are the same as those of the third embodiment, so they are appropriately omitted.

[0455] The suction port 226b is connected to one end of the suction air passage 206b and is an opening for introducing a part of the humidified air 252b as the second part 251b into the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209).

[0456] The suction port 226b is provided on the air passage at the rear stage (downstream side) of the humidifying unit 326 and the front stage (upstream side) of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 with respect to the air flow.

[0457] According to the operation of the air supply pump 205, the suction port 226b sucks a part of the humidified air 252b flowing through the air passage in the air conditioner 220b as the second part 251b. Details will be described later. The remaining main part of the humidified air 252b directly flows through the air supply pipe 230 as the first part 250b.

[0458] The hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is connected to the other end of the supply air passage 207 and is an opening for releasing the purified air 253b from the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204 (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209). The hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is provided on the air passage from the suction port 226b to the target space S.

[0459] In the present embodiment, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is provided on the air passage of the air supply pipe 230 at the downstream stage (downstream) of the suction port 226b.

[0460] According to the operation of the air supply pump 205, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 releases the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209) as the purified air 253b. That is, the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 releases the air containing hypochlorous acid gas (purified air 253b) into the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b as the mixed air 254b described later.

[0461] <5. Changes in air conditions>

[0462] Next, with reference to Figure 7 , the changes in the air conditions related to the air flowing through the air passage of the air conditioner 220b will be described.

[0463] According to the operation of the fan 229, the air introduced into the interior of the air conditioner 220b sequentially flows through the return air pipe 222, the filter 223, the temperature adjustment unit 227, the humidifying unit 326, the fan 229, and the air supply pipe 230, and is discharged to the target space S outside the device.

[0464] In the present embodiment, during this flow process, a part (the second part 251b) of the humidified air 252b that has passed through the humidifying unit 326 and the fan 229 is diverted to flow through the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b, and then mixed with the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b. That is, in the present embodiment, for the air introduced into the interior of the air conditioner 220b, its air conditions change in the order of the introduced air 248, the introduced air 248a, the temperature-adjusted air 249, the humidified air 252b, and the mixed air 254b.

[0465] The introduced air 248, the introduced air 248a, and the temperature-adjusted air 249 in the present embodiment are the same as those in the third embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0466] The humidified air 252b is the air after the temperature-controlled air 249 passes through the humidifying unit 326. That is, the humidified air 252b is the air whose humidity has been adjusted by the humidifying unit 326 for the temperature-controlled air 249. Here, the humidified air 252b is adjusted to a preset humidity (for example, 50% relative humidity). After that, the humidified air 252b passes through the blower 229.

[0467] The humidified air 252b flowing through the humidifying unit 326 and the blower 229 branches into a second part 251b which is a part of the humidified air 252b, and a first part 250b which is the main part of the humidified air 252b. Adjustment is made during the branching so that the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b is less than that of the first part 250b.

[0468] Specifically, the air volume of the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b is set to 3000 m 3 / h to 6000 m 3 / h, and the air volume of the second part 251b is set to 0.05 m 3 / h to 0.1 m 3 / h, and the air volume of the second part 251b is adjusted to an air volume less than 0.1% of the air volume of the first part 250b.

[0469] Thereby, when the second part 251b as the purified air 253b is mixed with the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b, the influence of the temperature and humidity change caused by the second part 251b passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 can be suppressed.

[0470] The first part 250b of the humidified air 252b is the air that circulates to the target space S after branching.

[0471] The second part 251b of the humidified air 252b is the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b (hypochlorous acid generation unit 209). After that, the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b flows through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and is released from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 as the purified air 253b.

[0472] At this time, since the second part 251b passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is the air adjusted to a preset temperature, the deviation of the supply amount of the hypochlorous acid gas caused by the temperature change of the introduced air can be made small.

[0473] The purified air 253b is the air after the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b passes through the hypochlorous acid generating section 209. That is, the purified air 253b is the air in which the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b contains hypochlorous acid gas by using the hypochlorous acid generating section 209. Here, considering the air volume ratio of the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b and the purified air 253b, the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the purified air 253b is set to a sufficiently high concentration to ensure that the preset concentration is reached after mixing.

[0474] The mixed air 254b is the air in which the purified air 253b from the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is mixed into the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b during the process of the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b flowing in the air duct leading to the target space S.

[0475] The air flowing through the air duct of the air conditioning device 220b is released to the target space S after undergoing the above changes.

[0476] <6. Effects, etc.>

[0477] As described above, in the space purification device 201b of the present embodiment, by controlling the operation of the water supply device 300, the presence or absence of water supply to the humidifying section 326 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the humidification amount introduced into the air flowing through the interior (temperature-controlled air 249) can be adjusted. In addition, by controlling the operation of the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b, the presence or absence of air supply to the hypochlorous acid generating section 209 and the supply amount are adjusted, so that the amount of hypochlorous acid gas introduced into the air flowing through the interior (the second part 251b of the humidified air 252b) can be adjusted.

[0478] At this time, by independently controlling the water supply device 300 (humidifying section 326) and the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b, and independently adjusting the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be flexibly adjusted in the space purification device 201.

[0479] As described above, according to the space purification device 201b of the fifth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0480] (1b) The space purification device 201b includes: a temperature adjustment unit 227, which is arranged in such a way that air in the inflow air passage circulates, for adjusting the temperature of the air; a humidification unit 326, which humidifies the temperature-adjusted air 249 flowing through the temperature adjustment unit 227; a blower 229, which releases the humidified air 252b flowing through the humidification unit 326 into the target space S; a hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, which is arranged in such a way that a part of the humidified air 252b (the second part 251b) flowing through the humidification unit 326 and before being released into the target space S circulates, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water. The air containing hypochlorous acid gas (purified air 253b) flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is mixed with the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b before being released into the target space S, and is released into the target S.

[0481] According to such a structure, as a part of the humidified air 252b (the second part 251b) is introduced as the air introduced into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, compared with the case of directly introducing external air, the deviation of the temperature and humidity of the introduced air can be suppressed, the generation amount (supply amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be stabilized, and the generation amount (imparted amount) of hypochlorous acid gas can be controlled without being affected by the humidification amount of the temperature-adjusted air 249. At this time, compared with the case of introducing dry air (air before humidification) into the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, since the difficult-to-humidify humidified air 252b is introduced, the influence of the humidity that may change due to the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 can be alleviated. In other words, in terms of the space purification device 201b that is difficult to achieve in the existing structure, a space purification device 201b that can flexibly adjust the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be realized.

[0482] In addition, since the hypochlorous acid gas is mixed after humidification, there is no need to change the air conditions thereafter. Therefore, in the case where there are multiple target spaces S, the hypochlorous acid gas can also be introduced only into a specific air passage after branching. Therefore, a space purification device 201b that can effectively use the hypochlorous acid gas, such as sterilizing only the space that is easily contaminated, can be realized.

[0483] (2b) In the space purification device 201b, there is an integrated control unit 311 that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the humidification unit 326. The integrated control unit 311 adjusts the amount of hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air 252b released into the target space S by controlling the hypochlorous acid gas supply device 204b. The integrated control unit 311 adjusts the humidification amount contained in the humidified air 252b released into the target space S by controlling the temperature adjustment unit 227 and the humidification unit 326. Thus, the adjustment of the amount of hypochlorous acid gas and the adjustment of the humidification amount can be independently performed. Therefore, in the space purification device 201b, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0484] (3b) In the space purification device 201b, the air volume (flow rate) of the second part 251b, which is a part of the humidified air 252b, is made smaller than that of the first part 250b, which is outside the part that is a part of the humidified air 252b. Thereby, when mixing the air (purified air 253b) after passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 and the air (the first part 250b of the humidified air 252b) that has been temperature-adjusted and humidified, there is relatively less air whose temperature may change dynamically after passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209. Therefore, changes in temperature and humidity caused by mixing can be further suppressed. Thus, in the space purification device 201b, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be adjusted more flexibly.

[0485] (4b) In the space purification device 201b, the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 releases the second part 251b of the temperature-adjusted humidified air 252b flowing through it as bubbles into the hypochlorous acid water to generate hypochlorous acid gas. By doing so, the air passing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 can contain more hypochlorous acid gas. Therefore, in the space purification device 201b, a sterilization effect can be obtained quickly.

[0486] (5) In the space purification device 201b, the position of the hypochlorous acid supply port 228 is set at the downstream of the blower 229. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid gas contained in the mixed air 254b is supplied to the target space S without passing through the blower 229, and attenuation of the hypochlorous acid gas when passing through the blower 229 can be eliminated. Therefore, in the space purification device 201b, a sterilization effect can be obtained quickly.

[0487] As described above, the present invention has been described according to each embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0488] In the space purification devices 201, 201a, and 201b of each embodiment, the introduced air 248 is used as the circulating air from the target space S, but it is not limited thereto. For example, it may also be the air outside the target space S, or the mixed air of the outside air and the circulating air from the target space S, and its conditions are not limited.

[0489] In addition, in the space purification devices 201, 201a, and 201b of each embodiment, the air volume (flow rate) of the first part 250, 250b and the second part 251, 251b, and the air volume ratio between the first part 250, 250b and the second part 251, 251b vary depending on the target space S or the ventilation conditions of the target space S, and their output values are not limited.

[0490] In addition, in the space purification devices 201, 201a, and 201b of the respective embodiments, the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 is configured to supply the hypochlorous acid water stored in the hypochlorous acid water tank 211, but is not limited thereto. For example, the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 may also employ an electrode unit that electrolyzes within the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 to generate hypochlorous acid water.

[0491] More specifically, the following configuration may also be adopted: By energizing the electrode unit, water or saline water within the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is electrolyzed to generate hypochlorous acid water, and then the concentration of the hypochlorous acid water within the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209 is increased to a set concentration. In this case, if the hypochlorous acid water supply device 202 has a function of adjusting the hypochlorous acid concentration within the hypochlorous acid generation unit 209, its structure is not limited.

[0492] (Supplementary Note)

[0493] An overview of one aspect of the present invention is as follows.

[0494] (Item 1)

[0495] A space purification device, characterized by comprising: a temperature adjustment unit, which is provided in a manner that allows air to flow through the inflow air passage, for adjusting the temperature of the air;

[0496] A humidification unit, which humidifies a first portion that is part of the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit;

[0497] A hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is provided in a manner that allows a second portion different from the first portion in the temperature-adjusted air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit to flow through, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water;

[0498] A blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space;

[0499] The air containing the hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the humidified air and released into the target space.

[0500] (Item 2)

[0501] The space purification device according to Item 1, characterized by further comprising: a control unit that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit,

[0502] The control unit adjusts the amount of the hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air to be released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit,

[0503] The control unit adjusts the amount of humidification contained in the humidified air to be released into the target space by controlling the temperature adjustment unit and the humidification unit.

[0504] (Item 3)

[0505] The space purification device as described in Item 1 or Item 2, wherein the flow rate of the second part of the temperature-controlled air is less than that of the first part of the temperature-controlled air.

[0506] (Item 4)

[0507] The space purification device as described in Item 1 or Item 2, wherein the hypochlorous acid generation unit releases the second part of the temperature-controlled air flowing through it into the hypochlorous acid water as bubbles to generate the hypochlorous acid gas.

[0508] (Item 5)

[0509] A space purification device, comprising: a temperature adjustment unit arranged in a manner that allows air to flow through an inflow air passage, for adjusting the temperature of the air;

[0510] A humidification unit for humidifying the first part of the temperature-controlled air that is part of the air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit;

[0511] A hypochlorous acid generation unit arranged in a manner that allows the second part of the temperature-controlled air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit, which is different from the first part, to flow through it, and capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water;

[0512] A blowing unit for releasing the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space;

[0513] The air containing the hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the first part of the temperature-controlled air and introduced into the humidification unit.

[0514] (Item 6)

[0515] The space purification device as described in Item 5, further comprising a control unit for controlling the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit,

[0516] The control unit adjusts the amount of the hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air to be released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit,

[0517] The control unit adjusts the humidification amount contained in the humidified air to be released into the target space by controlling the temperature adjustment unit and the humidification unit.

[0518] (Item 7)

[0519] The space purification device as described in Item 5 or Item 6, characterized in that the flow rate of the second part of the temperature-controlled air is less than the flow rate of the first part of the temperature-controlled air.

[0520] (Item 8)

[0521] The space purification device as described in Item 5 or Item 6, characterized in that the hypochlorous acid generation unit releases the second part of the temperature-controlled air flowing through it into the hypochlorous acid water as bubbles to generate the hypochlorous acid gas.

[0522] (Item 9)

[0523] A space purification device, characterized by comprising: a temperature adjustment unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows air to flow through the inflow air passage, for adjusting the temperature of the air;

[0524] A humidification unit, which humidifies the temperature-controlled air flowing through the temperature adjustment unit;

[0525] A blowing unit, which releases the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit into the target space;

[0526] And a hypochlorous acid generation unit, which is arranged in a manner that allows a part of the humidified air flowing through the humidification unit and before being released into the target space to flow through, and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas with hypochlorous acid water;

[0527] The air containing the hypochlorous acid gas flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit is mixed with the humidified air before being released into the target space, and is released into the target space.

[0528] (Item 10)

[0529] The space purification device as described in Item 9, characterized by comprising a control unit for controlling the operations of the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the humidification unit,

[0530] The control unit adjusts the amount of the hypochlorous acid gas contained in the humidified air to be released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generation unit,

[0531] The control unit adjusts the amount of humidification contained in the humidified air to be released into the target space by controlling the temperature adjustment unit and the humidification unit.

[0532] (Item 11)

[0533] The airborne purification device as described in Item 9 or Item 10, characterized in that the flow rate of a part of the humidified air is less than the flow rate of the part other than the part of the humidified air.

[0534] (Item 12)

[0535] The space purification device according to Item 9 or Item 10, characterized in that the hypochlorous acid generation unit releases, as bubbles, a part other than the humidified air flowing therethrough into the hypochlorous acid water to generate hypochlorous acid gas.

[0536] Industrial applicability

[0537] The space purification device of the present invention is configured such that when hypochlorous acid is contained in the air flowing through the hypochlorous acid generation unit and the air flowing through the humidifying unit is humidified, the humidification amount and the amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be flexibly adjusted in the space purification device, and it is very useful as a system for humidifying the target space and disinfecting or sterilizing the air.

[0538] Explanation of reference numerals

[0539] 1 Space purification device

[0540] 1a Space purification device

[0541] 2 Hypochlorous acid water supply device

[0542] 3 Hypochlorous acid control unit

[0543] 4 Water supply unit

[0544] 5 Water supply pipe

[0545] 6 Water supply valve

[0546] 7 Hypochlorous acid water supply section

[0547] 8 Water delivery pipe

[0548] 9 Stop valve

[0549] 10 Hypochlorous acid water pump

[0550] 11 Hypochlorous acid water tank

[0551] 20 Air conditioning device

[0552] 20a Air conditioning device

[0553] 21 Air supply control unit

[0554] 22 Return air duct

[0555] 23 Filter

[0556] 24 Air cooler

[0557] 25 Air heater

[0558] 26 Hypochlorous acid generation unit

[0559] 26a Hypochlorous acid generation unit

[0560] 27 Temperature control unit

[0561] 29 Blower

[0562] 30 Air supply pipe

[0563] 31 Drain pan

[0564] 32 Drainage flow path

[0565] 33 Heat source device

[0566] 34 Flow path

[0567] 35 Flow path

[0568] 36 Flow path

[0569] 37 Flow path

[0570] 38 Air circulation path

[0571] 40 Temperature and humidity sensor

[0572] 41 Operation unit

[0573] 100 Water supply device

[0574] 100a Water supply device

[0575] 103 Humidification control unit

[0576] 103a Humidification control unit

[0577] 104 Water supply section

[0578] 104a Water supply section

[0579] 105 Water supply pipe

[0580] 105a Water supply pipe

[0581] 106 Water supply valve

[0582] 106a Water supply valve

[0583] 111 Integrated control unit

[0584] 111a Input section

[0585] 111b Processing section

[0586] 111c Output section

[0587] 111d Storage section

[0588] 126 Humidification section

[0589] 126a Humidification section

[0590] 127 Evaporation tank

[0591] 128 Heating and Evaporation Unit

[0592] 129 Steam Pipe

[0593] 130 Steam Valve

[0594] 201 Space Purification Device

[0595] 201a Space Purification Device

[0596] 201b Space Purification Device

[0597] 202 Hypochlorous Acid Water Supply Device

[0598] 203 Hypochlorous Acid Control Unit

[0599] 204 Hypochlorous Acid Gas Supply Device

[0600] 204a Hypochlorous Acid Gas Supply Device

[0601] 204b Hypochlorous Acid Gas Supply Device

[0602] 205 Air Supply Pump

[0603] 206 Suction Air Duct

[0604] 206b Suction Air Duct

[0605] 207 Supply Air Duct

[0606] 207a Supply Air Duct

[0607] 208 Water Supply Pipe

[0608] 209 Hypochlorous Acid Generation Unit

[0609] 210 Hypochlorous Acid Water Pump

[0610] 211 Hypochlorous Acid Water Tank

[0611] 220 Air Conditioning Device

[0612] 220a Air Conditioning Device

[0613] 220b Air Conditioning Device

[0614] 221 Air Supply Control Unit

[0615] 222 Return Air Duct

[0616] 223 Filter

[0617] 224 Air Cooler

[0618] 225 Air Heater

[0619] 226 Air Inlet

[0620] 226b Suction inlet

[0621] 227 Temperature control section

[0622] 228 Hypochlorous acid supply port

[0623] 228a Hypochlorous acid supply port

[0624] 229 Blower

[0625] 230 Air supply pipeline

[0626] 231 Drain pan

[0627] 232 Drainage flow path

[0628] 233 Heat source device

[0629] 234 Flow path

[0630] 235 Flow path

[0631] 236 Flow path

[0632] 237 Flow path

[0633] 238 Air circulation path

[0634] 240 Temperature and humidity sensor

[0635] 241 Operation section

[0636] 248 Introduced air

[0637] 248a Introduced air

[0638] 249 Temperature-controlled air

[0639] 250 First part

[0640] 250b First part

[0641] 251 Second part

[0642] 251b Second part

[0643] 252 Humidified air

[0644] 252a Humidified air

[0645] 252b Humidified air

[0646] 253 Purified air

[0647] 253a Purified air

[0648] 253b Purified air

[0649] 254 Mixed air

[0650] 254a Mixed air

[0651] 254b Mixed air

[0652] 300 Water supply device

[0653] 303 Humidification control unit

[0654] 304 Water supply section

[0655] 305 Water pipe

[0656] 306 Water valve

[0657] 311 Integrated control unit

[0658] 311a Input section

[0659] 311b Processing section

[0660] 311c Output section

[0661] 311d Storage section

[0662] 326 Humidification section

[0663] S Target space.

Claims

1. A space purification device, characterized in that, include: A hypochlorous acid generating unit, which is disposed in the air flow path and is capable of generating hypochlorous acid gas using hypochlorous acid water; a humidifying unit, which is arranged in the air circulation path and is used to humidify the air; An air supply unit that releases the air that has passed through the hypochlorous acid generating unit and the humidifying unit to a target space; and a control unit that controls the operations of the hypochlorous acid generating unit and the humidifying unit, The control unit can control the hypochlorous acid generator and the humidifier separately.

2. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A hypochlorous acid control unit that determines information on an operation of supplying the hypochlorous acid water to the hypochlorous acid generating unit based on information received from the control unit, and outputs the information to the control unit; and a humidification control unit that determines information on an operation of supplying water to the humidification unit based on the information received from the control unit and outputs the information to the control unit, The control unit may control the hypochlorous acid generator and the humidifier in conjunction with the hypochlorous acid control unit and the humidification control unit, respectively.

3. The space purification device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit adjusts the amount of the hypochlorous acid gas contained in the air to be released into the target space by controlling the hypochlorous acid generator. The control unit adjusts the amount of humidification contained in the air to be released into the target space by controlling the humidifying unit.

4. The space purification device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The humidifying unit is a filter-type gas-liquid contact unit that causes water from a water supply unit to drip and vaporize.

5. The space purification device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The humidifying section is a water evaporating section that performs humidification using water vapor.

6. The space purification device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hypochlorous acid generator is arranged on an upstream side of the humidifier with respect to the air flow of the air flowing into the air flow path.

7. The space purification device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hypochlorous acid generator and the humidifier are arranged side by side with respect to the air flow of the air flowing into the air flow path.

8. The space purification device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The invention also includes a temperature adjustment unit, which is disposed on the upstream side of the hypochlorous acid generating unit in the air circulation path and adjusts the temperature of the air flowing into the air circulation path. The temperature adjustment unit heats the air according to a humidification amount requested for the humidification unit.

9. The space purification device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The invention also includes a temperature adjustment unit, which is disposed on the upstream side of the hypochlorous acid generating unit in the air circulation path and adjusts the temperature of the air flowing into the air circulation path. The temperature adjustment unit heats the air according to a humidification amount requested for the humidification unit.

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