Hypochlorous acid release device

Abstract

The invention provides a hypochlorous acid release device which can control the release amount of hypochlorous acid. This hypochlorous acid release device is provided with a storage tank for storing hypochlorous acid water and a release mechanism for releasing hypochlorous acid from the storage tank into a space, and is characterized in that: a main control device (250) is provided with: a state information acquisition unit (261) for acquiring state information; the state information includes at least one of the operating state of the release mechanism, the state of the space, and the state of the hypochlorous acid water; a concentration information acquisition unit (262) that acquires concentration information indicating the concentration of the hypochlorous acid water; and a release amount calculation unit (263) that calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid released into the space on the basis of the concentration information and the state information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a hypochlorous acid releasing device that releases hypochlorous acid into space. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an ultraviolet light absorption measurement technique that measures the concentration of hypochlorous acid water based on the light absorption attenuation caused by hypochlorous acid ions absorbing ultraviolet light.

[0003] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes a so-called polarographic measurement technique that measures the concentration of hypochlorous acid water based on the electrochemical reduction current of hypochlorous acid.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-343080

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-7508 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] While existing technologies can measure the concentration of hypochlorous acid in water, they cannot provide information about the amount of hypochlorous acid released into the air.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned technical problems, and its object is to provide a hypochlorous acid release device that can obtain information about the amount of hypochlorous acid released from hypochlorous acid water into the air.

[0011] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0012] One aspect of the present invention is a hypochlorous acid releasing device comprising a storage tank for storing hypochlorous acid water and a releasing mechanism for releasing hypochlorous acid from the storage tank into space. The device includes: a state information acquisition unit for acquiring state information, the state information including at least one of the operating state of the releasing mechanism, the state of the space, and the state of the hypochlorous acid water; a concentration information acquisition unit for acquiring concentration information representing the concentration of the hypochlorous acid water; and a release amount calculation unit for calculating the amount of hypochlorous acid released into space based on the concentration information and the state information.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to determine the amount of hypochlorous acid released from hypochlorous acid water into the air. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1This is a simplified diagram showing the hypochlorous acid release device from the side.

[0016] Figure 2 It is a block diagram representing the functional structure of the main control device.

[0017] Figure 3 It is a block diagram representing the functional structure of the measurement and control device.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a graph showing the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and the conductivity of hypochlorous acid water during hypochlorous acid formation.

[0019] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the relationship between the cumulative difference in conductivity and the concentration of hypochlorous acid during the formation of hypochlorous acid.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and the conductivity of hypochlorous acid water as hypochlorous acid decreases (decreases).

[0021] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the cumulative difference in conductivity and the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and hypochlorous acid concentration as hypochlorous acid decreases.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the hypochlorous acid release device.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the main control device in Implementation Method 2.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the hypochlorous acid release device in Embodiment 2.

[0025] Figure 11 This is another block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the main control device.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 100 Hypochlorite Concentration Measuring Device

[0028] 102 storage devices

[0029] 110 Measurement Agency

[0030] 111 Measuring Electrode

[0031] 112 Apply measuring device

[0032] 120 Measurement and Control Device

[0033] 121 Measurement Information Acquisition Department

[0034] 122 Conversion Information Acquisition Department

[0035] 123 Concentration Extraction Section

[0036] 126 Calibration Information Acquisition Department

[0037] 200 hypochlorous acid release device

[0038] 210 storage tank

[0039] 220 electrolytic electrode

[0040] 230 supply unit

[0041] 231 Power Supply Unit

[0042] 240 release agency

[0043] 241 Conveying Components

[0044] 242 fan

[0045] 250 main control unit

[0046] 261 Status Information Acquisition Department

[0047] 262 Concentration Information Acquisition Department

[0048] 263 Release Calculation Department

[0049] 264 Information Acquisition Department

[0050] 265 Reduction Calculation Department

[0051] 266 Deodorization Calculation Department

[0052] 267 Notification Department

[0053] 268 Supply Control Department

[0054] 271 room temperature sensor

[0055] 272 Humidity Sensor

[0056] 273 pH sensor

[0057] 274 Water Temperature Sensor

[0058] 275 Odor Sensor

[0059] 280 water level sensor

[0060] 291 reached the concentration extraction section

[0061] 292 Spatial Concentration Derivation Section. Detailed Implementation

[0062] Hereinafter, embodiments of the hypochlorous acid releasing device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments are provided as examples to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention. For example, the shapes, structures, materials, constituent elements, relative positional relationships, connection states, numerical values, mathematical formulas, the content of each stage in the method, and the order of each stage shown in the following embodiments are examples, and sometimes include content not described below. Additionally, geometric expressions such as parallel and orthogonal are sometimes used; these expressions do not represent a strictly mathematical meaning but include substantially permissible errors, deviations, etc. Furthermore, expressions such as simultaneous and identical also include substantially permissible ranges.

[0063] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings are schematic diagrams that have been appropriately emphasized, omitted, or proportionally adjusted for the purpose of illustrating the invention, and differ from actual shapes, positional relationships, and ratios. Additionally, the X, Y, and Z axes shown in the figures represent orthogonal coordinates arbitrarily set for the purpose of illustrating the figures. That is, the Z-axis is not limited to an axis along the vertical direction, and the X and Y axes are not limited to existing in the horizontal plane.

[0064] Furthermore, several inventions may be described in general terms as a single embodiment below. Additionally, a portion of the following description is presented as any constituent element of the present invention.

[0065] Furthermore, the flowchart is just one example; even if the processing flow (sequence) differs—whether it involves processing in different orders, merging multiple processes, or separating a single process—it is still included in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] (Implementation Method 1)

[0067] Figure 1 This diagram simply shows the hypochlorous acid releasing device 200 of this embodiment from the side. The hypochlorous acid releasing device 200 is a device that releases hypochlorous acid from hypochlorous acid water in a storage tank 210 into a space to sterilize the space. In this embodiment, the hypochlorous acid releasing device 200 also has the function of introducing odors, etc., into the hypochlorous acid water along with the atmosphere in the space for deodorization. The space refers to an enclosed space such as the interior space of a building. Specifically, examples of spaces include the living space of an ordinary family home, or the interior space of a hospital or nursing facility. Furthermore, the space may not be a completely enclosed space and may be connected to the outside. Additionally, the space can be not only the space inside a building but also the space within a moving vehicle such as a train or car.

[0068] Hypochlorous acid water has both antibacterial and deodorizing effects. Specifically, hypochlorous acid water has an oxidizing effect, decomposing airborne bacteria (planktonic bacteria) and attached bacteria (attached bacteria) by oxidizing them. Additionally, hypochlorous acid water deodorizes by oxidizing odorous gases introduced into the water. The term "antibacterial" is used for convenience within the scope of this specification and the invention and includes meanings such as "sterilization." Furthermore, "bacteria" includes viruses and molds.

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes a storage tank 210, a release mechanism 240, and a main control device 250. In this embodiment, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes a supply device 230 and a hypochlorous acid concentration measuring device 100. Hypochlorous acid is generated (when generated) by operating the supply device 230 for a predetermined period of time, and the hypochlorous acid is released into the space (when reduced) by the release mechanism 240.

[0070] Storage tank 210 is a container for storing hypochlorous acid water. The method of supplying hypochlorous acid water to storage tank 210 is not limited. For example, hypochlorous acid water generated outside storage tank 210 can be supplied to storage tank 210. In this embodiment, water and salt are supplied to storage tank 210, and hypochlorous acid water is generated within storage tank 210 by electrolysis. Furthermore, electrolysis based on supply device 230 will be described later.

[0071] The release mechanism 240 is a device for releasing hypochlorous acid from the storage tank 210 containing hypochlorous acid water into the space. In this embodiment, the release mechanism 240 also functions as an aeration device for drawing in (introducing) air (including odor) from the space into the hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210. The type of release mechanism 240 is not limited. For example, a method that applies ultrasound to hypochlorous acid water to release particulate matter (microparticles) of the hypochlorous acid water into the space can be exemplified. In this embodiment, the release mechanism 240 includes: a conveying member 241 that lifts hypochlorous acid water upward from its liquid surface; and a blower (air blower) 242 that blows air onto at least one of the conveying member 241 and the liquid surface of the hypochlorous acid water.

[0072] The conveying component 241 is a component capable of maintaining the hypochlorous acid water in a state of being impregnated with hypochlorous acid water, and is powered by an electric motor (not shown) rotating around a pipe shaft ( Figure 1A cylindrical component that rotates (left-right). The conveying component 241 is configured such that a portion of its periphery is immersed in hypochlorous acid water stored in the storage tank 210. By rotating, the conveying component 241 sequentially lifts a portion of its periphery above the liquid surface, thereby raising the hypochlorous acid water to a position above the liquid surface. Air is forced through the hypochlorous acid water, raised to a position above the liquid surface, by a blower 242, releasing the hypochlorous acid into the air. The airborne hypochlorous acid is then brought into contact with bacteria (including viruses and molds), thus sterilizing the space (including inactivating viruses and molds).

[0073] In addition, air and odorous gases such as ammonia dissolve together in the hypochlorous acid water lifted by the release mechanism 240. Furthermore, there are cases where air supplied by the fan 242 comes into direct contact with the hypochlorous acid water, causing the air and odorous gases to dissolve together in the hypochlorous acid water. By dissolving the odorous gases in the hypochlorous acid water within the storage tank 210, the odorous gases are decomposed by the hypochlorous acid, and the odor in the space is deodorized. Additionally, bacteria introduced into the hypochlorous acid water along with the air are also sterilized by the hypochlorous acid.

[0074] The release mechanism 240 is controlled by a release mechanism control device (not shown). For example, the release mechanism control device can change at least one of the rotational speed of the conveying component 241 per unit time and the rotational speed (wind intensity) of the fan 242 per unit time.

[0075] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the main control device. The main control device 250 includes a processor, and as a processing unit implemented by executing programs through the processor, it includes a status information acquisition unit 261, a concentration information acquisition unit 262, and a release amount calculation unit 263. In this embodiment, the main control device 250, as a processing unit, includes an amount information acquisition unit 264, a reduction amount calculation unit 265, a deodorization amount calculation unit 266, a notification unit 267, and a supply control unit 268.

[0076] The status information acquisition unit 261 acquires status information that includes at least one of the operating status of the release mechanism 240, the status of the space, and the status of the hypochlorous acid water.

[0077] The operating state of the release mechanism 240 includes wind information indicating the wind force of the air blown by the fan 242 of the release mechanism 240 toward the conveying member 241, such as hypochlorous acid water. Specific wind information can be exemplified by the rotational speed of the motor included in the fan 242 per unit time. The operating state of the release mechanism 240 may also include the rotational speed of the conveying member 241 per unit time.

[0078] The state of the space refers to information indicating the state of the space where the hypochlorous acid release device 200 is installed. Specifically, the state of the space can include at least one of temperature information indicating the temperature of the space and humidity information indicating the humidity of the space. In this embodiment, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes a room temperature sensor 271 and a humidity sensor 272, and the state information acquisition unit 261 acquires temperature information and humidity information from the room temperature sensor 271 and the humidity sensor 272, respectively. Additionally, the state of the space may sometimes also include odor concentration, indicating the concentration of odor in the space.

[0079] The state of the hypochlorous acid water includes the pH information of the hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210. Regarding the pH information of the hypochlorous acid water, for example, the pH (acidity / alkalinity) can be determined based on a sample of the hypochlorous acid water obtained from the storage tank 210, and the state information acquisition unit 261 acquires the pH information by inputting the obtained result. Alternatively, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 may be configured to include a pH measuring device, and the state information acquisition unit 261 may acquire pH information from the pH measuring device.

[0080] The concentration information acquisition unit 262 acquires concentration information indicating the concentration of hypochlorous acid water. There is no limitation on the destination from which the concentration information acquisition unit 262 acquires the concentration information. For example, the concentration information acquisition unit 262 may also acquire concentration information measured by ultraviolet absorption measurement technology or polarographic measurement technology. In this embodiment, the concentration information acquisition unit 262 acquires the concentration information from the hypochlorous acid concentration measuring device 100.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the hypochlorous acid concentration measuring device 100 is a device for measuring the concentration of hypochlorous acid stored in the storage tank 210, and includes a measuring mechanism 110 and a measuring control device 120.

[0082] The measuring mechanism 110 is a device for measuring conductivity information representing the conductivity of hypochlorous acid water stored in the storage tank 210, and includes a pair of measuring electrodes 111 and an application measuring device 112.

[0083] The measuring electrodes 111 are a pair of conductive components arranged at intervals in the hypochlorous acid water stored in the storage tank 210. The shape of the measuring electrodes 111 is not particularly limited; in this embodiment, they are rectangular plates (strips) smaller than the electrolysis electrode 220. The pair of measuring electrodes 111 are arranged with their respective main surfaces facing each other. The material of the measuring electrodes 111 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material. While the material of the measuring electrodes 111 is not particularly limited, a corrosion-resistant conductive material is preferred. Specifically, titanium, titanium alloys, and stainless steel are examples of materials that can be used as measuring electrodes 111. These materials can be easily processed into measuring electrodes 111, thus reducing manufacturing costs. Although the measuring mechanism 110 includes the measuring electrodes 111, which are separate from the electrolysis electrode 220, the electrolysis electrode 220 can also be used as the measuring electrodes 111.

[0084] The measuring device 112 includes an AC power supply device that applies a predetermined AC voltage between a pair of measuring electrodes 111. Additionally, the measuring device 112 measures the liquid resistance value (liquid resistance value) between the pair of measuring electrodes 111 as conductivity information. The frequency of the AC voltage applied by the measuring device 112 between the pair of measuring electrodes 111 is preferably selected from a range of 1 kHz to 100 kHz. By applying an AC voltage in this relatively high frequency range, when deriving the liquid resistance value of the liquid in the storage tank 210, i.e., hypochlorous acid water, using the AC impedance method, the liquid resistance value can be measured without an imaginary term. The above example illustrates the measuring device 112 as including an AC power supply device that applies an AC voltage, but the measuring device 112 may also include an AC power supply device that applies an AC current. In this case, the measurement control device 120 can also control the AC current.

[0085] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the measurement control device 120. The measurement control device 120 includes a processor, and as a processing unit implemented by executing programs through the processor, it includes a measurement information acquisition unit 121, a conversion information acquisition unit 122, and a concentration derivation unit 123. In this embodiment, the measurement control device 120 includes a calibration information acquisition unit 126.

[0086] The measurement information acquisition unit 121 acquires conductivity information from the measuring mechanism 110. The conductivity information acquired from the measuring mechanism 110 is not particularly limited; it can be the conductivity (electrical conductivity) of hypochlorous acid water or information from which conductivity can be derived through calculation. For example, the conductivity information could also be the liquid resistance value of hypochlorous acid water. The measurement control device 120 can also acquire the liquid resistance value measured using the AC impedance method through the measurement information acquisition unit 121 and derive the conductivity by calculating the reciprocal of the acquired liquid resistance value.

[0087] The conversion information acquisition unit 122 acquires conversion information indicating the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and conductivity. In the case of hypochlorous acid produced by electrolysis of brine to generate hypochlorous acid water, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the concentration of hypochlorous acid and the conductivity of water are inversely proportional. Among them, Figure 4 This is a graph showing the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and the conductivity of hypochlorous acid water. Figure 4 The 'n' mentioned is an integer representing the number of electrolysis (electrodecomposition) cycles. Furthermore, the specific values ​​for hypochlorous acid concentration and conductivity are omitted. Based on the above explanation, it can be derived that... Figure 5 The graph shows the conversion information during the generation process, illustrating the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and conductivity. This conversion information can be expressed as a function or stored as numerical data such as a table (mapping). Because the hypochlorous acid concentration needs to be obtained from zero in the initial generation process, the number of electrolysis cycles used for hypochlorous acid generation can also be... Figure 4 The process is performed in multiple steps as described. If the hypochlorous acid content in the hypochlorous acid water decreases due to the subsequent sterilization and deodorization processes following the generation of hypochlorous acid, additional electrolysis is required to replenish the reduced hypochlorous acid. Therefore, it can also be performed in a single electrolysis step.

[0088] In this embodiment, the conversion information acquisition unit 122 acquires the functions or tables stored in the storage device 102 included in the measurement control device 120 as conversion information during generation. Additionally, Figure 5 This indicates the conversion information used in the formation of hypochlorous acid. Additionally, Figure 5 The vertical axis of the graph shown represents the difference in electrical conductivity.

[0089] Additionally, in cases where the amount of hypochlorous acid in the hypochlorous acid water decreases due to sterilization and deodorization, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the concentration of hypochlorous acid is inversely proportional to the conductivity of water. Among them, Figure 6 This is a graph showing the relationship between hypochlorous acid concentration and the conductivity of hypochlorous acid water. Figure 6 The recorded 'm' is an integer representing the number of sterilization and deodorization cycles within a specified time. Furthermore, the specific values ​​for hypochlorous acid concentration and conductivity are omitted. Based on the above explanation, it is possible to derive... Figure 7 The graph shows the conversion information for the decrease in hypochlorous acid concentration and conductivity. This conversion information can be presented as a function or stored as numerical data such as a table (mapping).

[0090] In this embodiment, the conversion information acquisition unit 122 also acquires functions or tables stored in the storage device 102 included in the measurement control device 120 as conversion information for reduction. Additionally, Figure 7This indicates conversion information when hypochlorous acid decreases. Additionally, Figure 7 The vertical axis of the graph shown represents the difference in electrical conductivity.

[0091] The concentration derivation unit 123 derives concentration information representing the hypochlorous acid concentration based on the conductivity information obtained from the measuring mechanism 110 and the conversion information obtained from the conversion information acquisition unit 122. The concentration derivation unit 123 then outputs the derived hypochlorous acid concentration to the main control device 250. Here, the hypochlorous acid concentration refers to the total concentration of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorous acid ions (hypochlorite ions).

[0092] For example, the concentration derivation unit 123 derives the difference between two conductivity values ​​measured before and after an electrolysis performed at a predetermined time and voltage. The concentration derivation unit 123 is based on... Figure 5 The conversion information shown is used to derive concentration information representing the concentration of hypochlorous acid based on the cumulative difference in conductivity. The derived concentration information is output to the main control device 250 and acquired by the concentration information acquisition unit 262 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0093] The release amount calculation unit 263 calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid released into space based on the concentration information acquired by the concentration information acquisition unit 262 and the state information acquired by the state information acquisition unit 261. The method for calculating the release amount is not limited; in this embodiment, the calculation is performed based on the following formula 1.

[0094] Release amount = Concentration information * f (state information) ... Equation 1

[0095] Here, * denotes multiplication. f(state information) is a function that takes at least one of the information contained in the state information as a parameter.

[0096] Furthermore, it was observed that by including the operating state of the release mechanism 240 within the state information in the parameters of f(state information), the release amount can be accurately calculated. In particular, it was believed that wind information representing the wind force of the blower 242 blowing the hypochlorous acid water contributes to the accurate calculation of the release amount. Additionally, it was observed that by setting f(state information) as a polynomial with parameters including the operating state of the release mechanism 240 and other information contained within the state information, the accuracy of the release amount is improved.

[0097] When the parameters of f(state information) include the operating status of the release mechanism 240, the larger the airflow, the larger the value of f(state information). Furthermore, when the parameters of f(state information) include information representing the state of the space, such as temperature, the higher the temperature, the larger the value of f(state information). Similarly, when the parameters of f(state information) include information representing the state of the space, such as humidity, the lower the humidity, the larger the value of f(state information). Finally, when the parameters of f(state information) include pH information representing the state of hypochlorous acid water, the lower the pH, the larger the value of f(state information). By including more state information in the parameters of f(state information), the accuracy of the release rate calculation can be improved.

[0098] The quantity information acquisition unit 264 acquires quantity information indicating the amount of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210. The destination for acquiring the quantity information is not limited, but in this embodiment, the quantity information acquisition unit 264 acquires the quantity information based on information from the water level sensor 280 installed in the storage tank 210.

[0099] The reduction calculation unit 265 calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced in the hypochlorous acid water, i.e., the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced, based on the concentration information acquired by the concentration information acquisition unit 262 and the quantity information acquired by the quantity information acquisition unit 264. For example, the reduction calculation unit 265 stores the amount of hypochlorous acid obtained by multiplying the concentration information acquired by the concentration information acquisition unit 262 multiple times by the quantity information at the time of acquisition, and calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced based on the difference between the amounts of hypochlorous acid acquired at different times. In addition, the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced calculated by the reduction calculation unit 265 includes: the amount of hypochlorous acid released into the space by the release mechanism 240 (which helps to sterilize the space); and the amount of hypochlorous acid used for the decomposition of odors in the storage tank 210 (which helps to deodorize).

[0100] The deodorization amount calculation unit 266 calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid used for space deodorization in the hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210 based on the amount of hypochlorous acid reduction calculated by the reduction amount calculation unit 265 and the amount of release calculated by the release amount calculation unit 263. The method for calculating the deodorization amount is not limited; in this embodiment, it is calculated based on the following formula 2.

[0101] Deodorization capacity = Reduction in hypochlorous acid - Release amount... Equation 2

[0102] In this context, "-" indicates a subtraction operation.

[0103] The notification unit 267 notifies the release amount information calculated by the release amount calculation unit 263. In this embodiment, the notification unit 267 also notifies the deodorization amount information calculated by the deodorization amount calculation unit 266. The notification method of the notification unit 267 is not limited; notification can be made using a display device including an indicator, employing changes in color, pattern, or text. Alternatively, notification can be made using sound, such as through a speaker. Furthermore, notification can also be made by outputting at least one of the release amount information and the deodorization amount information to a terminal device via communication or the like.

[0104] Figure 1 The supply device 230 shown is an apparatus for supplying hypochlorous acid to the storage tank 210. The method by which the supply device 230 supplies hypochlorous acid to the storage tank 210 is not limited (i.e., not limited). For example, hypochlorous acid water sealed in a container containing hypochlorous acid water of a predetermined concentration may be supplied to the storage tank 210. Alternatively, an electrolytic cell separate from the storage tank 210 may be included, supplying hypochlorous acid water obtained by electrolyzing water containing dissolved salt in the electrolytic cell to the storage tank 210. Furthermore, the amount of hypochlorous acid water supplied to the storage tank 210 can be controlled using a flow meter or the like. In this embodiment, the supply device 230 is installed inside the storage tank 210, and a pair of electrolytic electrodes 220 are used to electrolyze the chlorine-containing water in the storage tank 210 to supply hypochlorous acid.

[0105] The electrolytic electrodes 220 are a pair of conductive components arranged in a state of being inserted into chlorinated water stored in the storage tank 210. The shape of the electrolytic electrodes 220 is not particularly limited; in this embodiment, they are rectangular plates (strips). The pair of electrolytic electrodes 220 are arranged with their respective main surfaces (surfaces with the largest area) facing each other. The material of the electrolytic electrodes 220 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material. For example, the electrolytic electrodes 220 may have a structure in which a catalyst layer is coated on the surface of a conductive substrate. Examples of conductive substrates include metal monomers such as titanium, iron, copper, niobium, and tantalum, or their alloys. Considering ease of processing or manufacturing cost, titanium or titanium alloys are preferred as the material of the conductive substrate. Examples of catalyst layers include catalysts containing platinum, iridium, etc. Other mixtures contained in the catalyst layer may be any metallic state such as metals, alloys, or metal oxides, for example, lead, gold, nickel, copper, silver, iron, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium, and carbon.

[0106] The power supply device 231 is a DC power supply device that applies a specified DC voltage between a pair of electrolytic electrodes 220. Under the control of the main control device 250, the power supply device 231 selects whether to apply voltage to the pair of electrolytic electrodes 220, that is, selects whether to turn the voltage application on (ON) or off (OFF) to the pair of electrolytic electrodes 220.

[0107] Figure 2 The supply control unit 268 shown controls the supply device 230 based on the release amount calculated by the release amount calculation unit 263. The supply control unit 268 controls the power supply device 231 of the supply device 230, and after adding water and salt to an empty storage tank 210, performs electrolysis for a predetermined time multiple times at predetermined timings until the storage tank 210 is emptied. The predetermined timing can be, for example, every predetermined period, or the timing at which the release amount is calculated by the release amount calculation unit 263.

[0108] For example, if the release amount exceeds the release threshold, the supply control unit 268 can increase at least one of the electrolysis time and electrolysis frequency to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied to the storage tank 210. Alternatively, if the release amount exceeds the release threshold, the supply control unit 268 can also increase at least one of the applied voltage and the current supplied by the power supply device 231 to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied to the storage tank 210.

[0109] Next, the operation of the hypochlorous acid release device 200 will be explained. Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the hypochlorous acid release device 200. First, in this embodiment, the main control device 250, included in the supply device 230, supplies brine based on quantity information from a water level sensor 280 installed in the storage tank 210 until the conveying member 241 is fully submerged at a predetermined position, and confirms the full water state (S101). After confirming the full water state, the main control device 250 activates the power supply device 231 under the initial hypochlorous acid water generation conditions, generating and supplying the predetermined hypochlorous acid water from a pair of electrolysis electrodes 220 (S102).

[0110] After the supply device 230 supplies the prescribed amount of hypochlorous acid water, the release mechanism 240 is activated to perform space sterilization and deodorization (S103). After a predetermined time, the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210 is measured by the measurement control device 120 (S104). The main control device 250 acquires status information through the status information acquisition unit 261, concentration information through the concentration information acquisition unit 262, and quantity information through the quantity information acquisition unit 264 (S105). The release amount calculation unit 263 calculates the release amount based on the various information (each piece of information) acquired in S105 (S106). The reduction amount calculation unit 265 calculates the reduced amount of hypochlorous acid in the hypochlorous acid water, i.e., the reduction in hypochlorous acid amount, based on the various information acquired in S105 (S107). The deodorization amount calculation unit 266 calculates the deodorization amount based on the various information obtained in S105 to S107 (S108). Based on the received information about the amount of release or the amount of deodorization, the notification unit 267 notifies the extent to which sterilization can be achieved in the space, and the amount of odor decomposed and removed from the space, according to the operating status of the hypochlorous acid release device 200 (S109).

[0111] After a series of processes (S103-S109), if the release amount exceeds the release threshold (S110, Yes), the supply control unit 268 determines that the space sterilization related to the release amount can be performed at or above the prescribed level, and repeatedly performs sterilization and deodorization for a prescribed time. If the release amount is less than the release threshold (S110, No), the supply control unit 268 sets the release conditions / electrolysis conditions based on the calculated release amount and deodorization amount to change or maintain the balance between the release amount and the deodorization amount (S111). For example, if the space sterilization amount is insufficient, the release conditions are changed to release more hypochlorous acid into the space. That is, if the release amount is large, control is performed to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid in the storage tank 210. For example, to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid, at least one of the electrolysis time based on the electrolysis electrode 220, the electrolysis frequency, the applied voltage based on the power supply device 231, and the current is increased. As a result, the sterilization effect of the space can be improved.

[0112] Furthermore, when there is a high level of odor in the space, the release conditions are changed to supply a large amount of odor-causing water to the hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210. That is, when the deodorization volume is large, the rotational speed of the fan 242 per unit time is increased. This improves the deodorization effect of the space. In addition, to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid in the storage tank 210 (in order to suppress the decrease of the amount of hypochlorous acid in the storage tank 210), at least one of the electrolysis time, electrolysis frequency, applied voltage based on the power supply device 231, and energizing current based on the power supply device 231 can be further increased. If a termination signal is received during these processes, in this embodiment, after performing space sterilization and space deodorization for a predetermined time, the operation of the hypochlorous acid release device 200 ends. The termination operation of the hypochlorous acid release device 200 is an example and is not limited to this.

[0113] (Implementation Method 2)

[0114] As Embodiment 2, an embodiment of a hypochlorous acid releasing device 200 capable of calculating the spatial concentration of hypochlorous acid will be described. Furthermore, there are instances where structures (parts) having the same functions, effects, shapes, mechanisms, and structures as Embodiment 1 are labeled with the same reference numerals and descriptions are omitted. Additionally, the following description focuses on the differences from Embodiment 1, and descriptions of identical content are sometimes omitted.

[0115] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the main control device 250 in Embodiment 2. In this embodiment, the main control device 250, as a processing unit implemented by causing a processor to execute a program, further includes a concentration derivation unit 291 and a spatial concentration derivation unit 292.

[0116] The concentration derivation unit 291 derives the concentration that hypochlorous acid can reach in the space where the hypochlorous acid release device 200 is installed, based on the concentration information acquired by the concentration information acquisition unit 262 from the hypochlorous acid concentration measuring device 100. For example, the reached concentration can be calculated based on the following formula 3.

[0117] Achieving concentration = concentration information * k1 ... Equation 3

[0118] k1 is a coefficient obtained experimentally based on the pH information of the hypochlorous acid water (one of the state information) and the water temperature of the hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210 (another of the state information). For example, k1 can be calculated based on the following equation 4.

[0119] k1 = HClO ratio * gas-liquid equilibrium ratio ... Equation 4

[0120] The HClO ratio is the proportion of HClO in the concentration information (total concentration of HClO and ClO ions), and it depends on the pH of the hypochlorous acid water. Specifically, the HClO ratio can be calculated using Equation 5 below.

[0121] HClO ratio = 1 / (1 + 10^(pH - 7.5376))······Equation 5

[0122] Where ^ represents exponentiation, / represents division, and 7.5376 is the deviation multiplier (deviation coefficient).

[0123] The gas-liquid balance ratio is the ratio of the concentration of HClO in storage tank 210 to the spatial concentration of HClO when the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space is saturated (reached concentration). This can be understood as being the same as the relative humidity stability of the space under specified temperature conditions. A specific value for the gas-liquid balance ratio can be exemplified as 0.01.

[0124] The spatial concentration derivation unit 292 derives the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space based on the amount of hypochlorous acid released and the achieved concentration derived by the achieved concentration derivation unit 291. The spatial concentration can be derived based on the following equation 6.

[0125] Spatial concentration = Achieved concentration - Concentration information * f(state information) / k2 ... Equation 6

[0126] Wherein, k2 is a coefficient determined by the volatilization efficiency of hypochlorous acid based on wind information representing the wind force of the wind blown by the fan 242 of the release mechanism 240. The smaller the wind information, the higher the volatilization efficiency. In addition, the larger the wind information, the higher the value of wind information * volatilization efficiency, but the value of wind information * volatilization efficiency is highly saturated to some extent. In addition, the volatilization efficiency is also affected by the water temperature of the hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210.

[0127] Equation 6 above is derived from Equation 7 below.

[0128] (Concentration reached - spatial concentration) * k2 = concentration information * f(state information) ... Equation 7

[0129] The left side shows the amount of hypochlorous acid released, and the right side shows the amount calculated based on concentration information. This is based on the inventors' following insights: Along with the release of hypochlorous acid, water evaporates, and the absolute humidity of the space increases. Therefore, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space is positively correlated with the increase in absolute humidity. Furthermore, the amount of hypochlorous acid released decreases when the concentration in the space increases. Accordingly, under conditions of low absolute humidity (high temperature, low humidity, etc.), f (state information) increases, and the amount of hypochlorous acid released increases.

[0130] In this embodiment, the supply control unit 268 controls the supply device 230 based on the spatial concentration derived by the spatial concentration derivation unit 292. For example, if the spatial concentration is lower than the spatial concentration threshold, the supply control unit 268 may increase at least one of the electrolysis time and electrolysis frequency to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied to the storage tank 210. Furthermore, if the spatial concentration is lower than the spatial concentration threshold, the supply control unit 268 may also increase at least one of the applied voltage and the current supplied by the power supply device 231 to increase the amount of hypochlorous acid supplied to the storage tank 210.

[0131] Furthermore, since the concentration information of storage tank 210 is determined by concentration information * k1, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space can be controlled by adjusting the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in storage tank 210 to achieve the target hypochlorous acid concentration in the space. Additionally, when the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space is determined by a sterilization effect CT value (Concentration-Time Value) set by the user, feedback control can be performed to ensure that the concentration information of storage tank 210 determined based on the determined hypochlorous acid concentration in the space is constant. When the user settings are changed, the concentration and flow rate of hypochlorous acid water supplied to storage tank 210 are controlled to maintain the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210. Consequently, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space is also controlled.

[0132] Alternatively, the spatial concentration derivation unit 292 may derive the spatial concentration as the amount of hypochlorous acid released, calculated by the reduction amount calculation unit 265, when the status information acquisition unit 261 acquires the concentration of odor in the space that can be deodorized by hypochlorous acid water and is less than the odor threshold, based on the odor sensor 275. In this case, the spatial concentration can be derived based on the following formula 8.

[0133] Spatial concentration = Achieved concentration - Decrease in hypochlorous acid * k3 / k2 ... Equation 8

[0134] k3 is a coefficient determined by the amount of hypochlorous acid water in storage tank 210.

[0135] In this embodiment, the notification unit 267 can also notify the spatial concentration exported by the spatial concentration export unit 292.

[0136] Next, the operation of the hypochlorous acid release device 200 of this embodiment will be explained. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the hypochlorous acid releasing device 200 according to Embodiment 2. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for processes identical to those in Embodiment 1, and descriptions are omitted.

[0137] The processing steps S101-S105 are the same as in Embodiment 1. The main control device 250 acquires status information through the status information acquisition unit 261, concentration information through the concentration information acquisition unit 262, and quantity information through the quantity information acquisition unit 264 (S105). The spatial concentration derivation unit 292 determines whether the odor concentration, which is one of the status information, is below the odor threshold (S201). If the odor concentration is below the odor threshold (S201, Yes), the reaching concentration derivation unit 291 derives the concentration that hypochlorous acid can reach in the space, i.e., the reaching concentration, based on the concentration information (S202). Next, the amount of hypochlorous acid reduction calculated by the reduction calculation unit 265 (S107) is taken as the amount of hypochlorous acid released. The spatial concentration derivation unit 292 derives the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space, i.e., the spatial concentration, based on the amount of hypochlorous acid released and the reaching concentration (S203).

[0138] On the other hand, if the odor concentration is greater than the odor threshold (S201, No), the concentration derivation unit 291 derives the achievable concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space based on the concentration information, i.e., the achievable concentration (S202). Next, the release amount calculation unit 263 calculates the release amount of hypochlorous acid (S106), and the reduction amount calculation unit 265 calculates the reduction amount of hypochlorous acid (S107). The space concentration derivation unit 292 derives the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space, i.e., the space concentration, based on the release amount of hypochlorous acid and the achievable concentration (S203).

[0139] When the space concentration is above the space concentration threshold (S204, Yes), the supply control unit 268 determines that the space sterilization can be performed for a specified period or more, and repeatedly performs sterilization and deodorization for a specified period of time. When the space concentration is below the space concentration threshold (S204, No), the supply control unit 268 sets the release mechanism control device to release conditions and electrolysis conditions to increase the space concentration (S111).

[0140] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, the constituent elements described in this specification can be combined arbitrarily, and other embodiments implemented by removing some of the constituent elements can also be considered as embodiments of the present invention. In addition, for the above embodiments, various modifications that can be conceived by those skilled in the art are also included in the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention, that is, the meaning of the statements described in the invention summary.

[0141] For example, implementing programs corresponding to the processes executed by the main control device 250 also falls under the scope of this invention. Of course, implementing a recording medium containing such programs also falls under the scope of this invention.

[0142] In addition, it was explained that the concentration of hypochlorous acid can be derived from the difference in liquid resistance (conductivity), but it is also possible to derive the concentration of hypochlorous acid from the liquid resistance (conductivity) without using the difference.

[0143] Furthermore, while the main control device 250 and the measurement control device 120 are described as separate components, they can also be integrated. That is, the processing units of the main control device 250 and the measurement control device 120 can be implemented by having a single processor execute a program.

[0144] In addition, conversion information and correction information may not be stored in the storage device 102 of the measurement and control device 120, but may be obtained through communication such as a network.

[0145] Alternatively, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 may not include the odor sensor 275, but instead obtain the odor concentration from an external device such as an air conditioning unit. Furthermore, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 may also obtain odor information (odor concentration) input by a user into an input device or the like.

[0146] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the main control device 250 may also include a release amount calculation unit 263 and a deodorization amount calculation unit 266.

[0147] (Summarize)

[0148] The hypochlorous acid release device 200 of the first embodiment includes a storage tank 210 for storing hypochlorous acid water and a release mechanism 240 for releasing hypochlorous acid from the storage tank 210 into space. It includes: a status information acquisition unit 261 for acquiring status information, the status information including at least one of the operation status of the release mechanism 240, the status of the space, and the status of the hypochlorous acid water; a concentration information acquisition unit 262 for acquiring concentration information indicating the concentration of the hypochlorous acid water; and a release amount calculation unit 263 for calculating the amount of hypochlorous acid released into space based on the concentration information and the status information.

[0149] According to the first method, the amount of hypochlorous acid released can be accurately determined, which can help to sterilize the space.

[0150] The second type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes the first type, wherein the status information includes at least one of wind information indicating the wind force of the wind blown by the release mechanism 240 to the hypochlorous acid water, temperature information indicating the temperature of the space, humidity information indicating the humidity of the space, and pH information indicating the pH of the hypochlorous acid water.

[0151] According to the second method, by using this state information to calculate the release amount, the accuracy of the calculated release amount can be improved.

[0152] The third type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes either the first type or the second type, including a supply device 230 that supplies hypochlorous acid to a storage tank 210 and a supply control unit 268 that controls the supply device 230 based on a calculated release amount.

[0153] According to the third method, hypochlorous acid can be supplied to the storage tank 210 according to the release amount, and the space can be stably sterilized.

[0154] The fourth type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes any one of the first to third types, and includes: a quantity information acquisition unit 264 that acquires quantity information representing the amount of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210; a quantity reduction calculation unit 265 that calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced in the hypochlorous acid water based on concentration information and quantity information; and a deodorization amount calculation unit 266 that calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid water used for space deodorization as the deodorization amount based on the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced and the release amount calculated by the quantity reduction calculation unit 265.

[0155] According to the fourth method, the amount of hypochlorous acid used for deodorization in the hypochlorous acid water can be determined. Therefore, the amount of odor in the space, the so-called odor in the space, can be quantitatively determined.

[0156] In addition, by comparing the deodorization amount with the release amount, the hypochlorous acid release device 200 can be appropriately controlled such that the air volume of the fan 242 can be increased to improve the sterilization intensity of the space when the deodorization amount is large.

[0157] The fifth type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes any one of the first to fourth types, and includes a notification unit 267 that notifies the release amount of information.

[0158] According to the fifth method, the status of space sterilization performed by the hypochlorous acid release device 200 can be notified to users, etc.

[0159] The sixth type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes any one of the first to fifth types, and includes: a concentration output unit 291, which outputs the concentration of hypochlorous acid that can be reached in space, i.e., the reached concentration, based on concentration information; and a space concentration output unit 292, which outputs the concentration of hypochlorous acid in space, i.e., the space concentration, based on the amount of hypochlorous acid released and the aforementioned reached concentration.

[0160] According to the sixth method, the spatial concentration of hypochlorous acid, which contributes to space sterilization, can be accurately determined without using a dedicated hypochlorous acid gas measuring device. Therefore, there is no need to consider the degradation of dedicated sensors, and the sterilization effect in the space can be accurately measured over a long period of time at low cost.

[0161] The seventh type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes the sixth type, which includes: a supply device 230 for supplying hypochlorous acid to a storage tank 210; and a supply control unit 268 for controlling the supply device 230 based on the derived spatial concentration.

[0162] According to the seventh method, hypochlorous acid can be supplied to the storage tank 210 according to the spatial concentration, and the space can be stably sterilized.

[0163] The eighth type of hypochlorous acid release device 200 includes the sixth or seventh type, which includes: a quantity information acquisition unit 264 that acquires quantity information indicating the amount of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank 210; and a quantity reduction calculation unit 265 that calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced in the hypochlorous acid water based on concentration information and quantity information. When the status information acquisition unit 261 acquires the odor concentration in the space that can be deodorized by hypochlorous acid water and is less than the odor threshold as status information, the space concentration derivation unit 292 derives the space concentration as the amount of hypochlorous acid released.

[0164] In the method for calculating the release amount based on concentration information * f (state information), when the initial absolute humidity in the space is high, the release of hypochlorous acid proceeds unimpeded, but it is not easy to cause water evaporation. Therefore, the inventors have discovered that f (state information) based on the change in absolute humidity is greatly affected by the initial absolute humidity value. Therefore, although it is not affected by the amount of deodorization, the accuracy of the release amount itself can deteriorate depending on the state of the space. According to the eighth method, since the spatial concentration can be derived from the reduction in the amount of hypochlorous acid as the release amount, the spatial concentration can be calculated with high accuracy without being affected by the above-mentioned problem. In addition, according to the eighth method, the spatial concentration can be determined without deriving the concentration reached, which can reduce the number of computer processing steps.

[0165] Industrial availability

[0166] The hypochlorous acid release device of the present invention can be used, for example, in space purification devices.

Claims

1. A hypochlorous acid releasing device, comprising a storage tank for storing hypochlorous acid water and a releasing mechanism capable of releasing hypochlorous acid from the storage tank into space, characterized in that it includes: A status information acquisition unit for acquiring status information, wherein the status information includes at least one of the operating status of the release mechanism, the status of the space, and the status of the hypochlorous acid water; The concentration information acquisition unit acquires concentration information representing the concentration of the hypochlorous acid water; and The release amount calculation unit calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid released into the space based on the concentration information and the state information.

2. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The status information includes at least one of the following: wind information indicating the wind force blowing the release mechanism into the hypochlorous acid water, temperature information indicating the temperature of the space, humidity information indicating the humidity of the space, and pH information indicating the pH of the hypochlorous acid water.

3. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, include: A supply device capable of supplying hypochlorous acid to the storage tank; and The supply control unit of the supply device controls the supply amount based on the calculated release amount.

4. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, include: The quantity information acquisition unit acquires quantity information indicating the amount of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank; The reduction calculation unit calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid that has been reduced in hypochlorous acid water based on the concentration information and the amount information. and The deodorization amount calculation unit calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid already used for deodorization of the space in the hypochlorous acid water based on the amount of reduced hypochlorous acid calculated by the reduction amount calculation unit and the amount of release.

5. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The notification department shall notify the release amount information regarding the release amount.

6. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The concentration derivation section, based on the concentration information, derives the achieved concentration as the concentration that hypochlorous acid can reach in space. and The spatial concentration derivation unit, based on the amount of hypochlorous acid released and the concentration reached, derives the spatial concentration as the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the space.

7. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, include: A supply device capable of supplying hypochlorous acid to the storage tank; and The supply control unit controls the supply device based on the derived spatial concentration.

8. The hypochlorous acid releasing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, include: The quantity information acquisition unit acquires quantity information indicating the amount of hypochlorous acid water in the storage tank; and The reduction calculation unit calculates the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced as a percentage of the amount of hypochlorous acid reduced in the hypochlorous acid water, based on the concentration information and the amount information. When the status information acquisition unit acquires an odor concentration in the space that is less than the odor threshold, which is the concentration of odor that can be deodorized by hypochlorous acid water, as status information. The spatial concentration derivation unit derives the spatial concentration by taking the reduction in hypochlorous acid as the amount of hypochlorous acid released.

Images