Sterilization device and hot water device

Abstract

To provide a sterilization device configured to inhibit occurrence of electrical failure of an ultraviolet light source.SOLUTION: A sterilization device includes a housing and an ultraviolet light source. The housing includes a flow channel therein. The housing includes an inflow port that permits inflow of a fluid that becomes a sterilization target into the flow channel, and an outflow port that permits outflow of the fluid from the flow channel. The ultraviolet light source irradiates ultraviolet light to the fluid flowing through the flow channel. The housing includes an internal space where the ultraviolet light source is stored. The internal space in the housing communicates with the outside of the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization device and a hot water device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent No. 6080937 (Patent Document 1) describes a fluid sterilization device. The fluid sterilization device described in Patent Document 1 has a flow path pipe and a light source. Inside the flow path pipe, there is a flow path. In the extension direction of the flow path, the flow path pipe has an inlet and an outlet. The fluid to be sterilized flows into the flow path at the inlet and flows out of the flow path at the outlet. The light source irradiates ultraviolet light onto the fluid flowing through the flow path from the outlet. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6080937 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned sterilization apparatus, there is a risk that moisture may enter the area in which the light source is housed, causing an electrical failure of the ultraviolet light source. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The sterilization device of the present disclosure includes a housing and an ultraviolet light source. The housing has a flow path therein. The housing has an inlet for allowing a fluid to be sterilized to flow into the flow path and an outlet for allowing the fluid to flow out of the flow path. The ultraviolet light source irradiates ultraviolet light onto the fluid flowing through the flow path. The housing has an internal space in which the ultraviolet light source is housed. The housing has a through path formed therein that communicates the internal space with the outside of the housing. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the sterilization device of the present disclosure, a sterilization device in which the occurrence of electrical failures in the ultraviolet light source is suppressed can be obtained. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view of the sterilization apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the sterilization apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus taken along line III-III in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 4 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of a heat sink in the sterilization apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the lid member in the sterilization apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of a hot water device according to an embodiment; [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a cover member according to a comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] The details of the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same or corresponding parts are given the same reference symbols, and redundant explanations will not be repeated. The sterilization device according to the embodiment is referred to as a sterilization device 100.

[0009] (Configuration of sterilization device) The configuration of the sterilization apparatus 100 will be described below.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a front view of a sterilization apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the sterilization apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus 100 taken along line III-III in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the sterilization apparatus 100 taken along line IV-IV in Fig. 2. As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the sterilization apparatus 100 has a housing 10, a flow path member 20, a light-transmitting plate 30, a heat sink 40, an ultraviolet light source 50, and a partition member 60.

[0011] The housing 10 has a first end 10a and a second end 10b in a first direction DR1. The first direction DR1 is a direction along a flow path 21 described later. The housing 10 has an inlet 11 and an outlet 12. The inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are formed on a side surface of the housing 10. The inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are connected to the inside of the housing 10. The inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are located on the first end 10a side and the second end 20b side, respectively. The material constituting the housing 10 is, for example, a resin material. A specific example of the material constituting the housing 10 is SPS (syndiotactic polystyrene).

[0012] The housing 10 has, for example, a main body 15a and a cover member 15b. The main body 15a includes a first member 13 and a second member 14. The first member 13 has an inlet 11. The second member 14 has an outlet 12. One end of the first member 13 in the first direction DR1 forms a first end 10a. The other end of the first member 13 in the first direction DR1 is open. One end side of the second member 14 in the first direction DR1 is inserted into an opening at the other end of the first member 13 in the first direction DR1. The other end of the second member 14 in the first direction DR1 is open. The cover member 15b forms a second end 10b. The cover member 15b closes the opening of the second member 14 in the first direction DR1.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the sterilization apparatus 100 includes a fixing part 80. The fixing part 80 attaches the cover member 15b to the main body part 15a. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the cover member 15b has a through hole 81. As shown in FIG. 6, four through holes 81 are formed on an outer circumferential circle of the center point p1 of the cover member 15b. Four holes are formed in each of the first member 13 and the second member 14 (not shown). The holes are formed in a direction along the first direction DR1. In a plan view of the sterilization apparatus 100, the through hole 81 of the cover member 15b, the hole of the first member 13, and the hole of the second member 14 are arranged at positions where they overlap each other. That is, in a plan view of the second end 10b, the fixing part 80 is arranged at a position where it overlaps the main body part 15a. The fixing part 80 is inserted into the through hole 81 of the cover member 15b, the hole of the first member 13, and the hole of the second member 14. In this manner, the lid member 15b, the first member 13, and the second member 14 are fastened together by the fastening parts 80. The fastening parts 80 are, for example, screws. Note that the lid member 15b and the main body part 15a may be fastened together by any method, for example, by welding.

[0014] The flow path member 20 is housed in the housing 10. That is, the flow path member 20 is disposed inside the housing 10. A flow path 21 is formed inside the flow path member 20. The flow path 21 is along a first direction DR1. The flow path member 20 has a first end 20a and a second end 20b in the first direction DR1. The flow path member 20 has an inlet 22 and an outlet 23. The inlet 22 is formed on a side surface of the flow path member 20 on the first end 20a side. The outlet 23 is formed on the second end 20b. The inlet 22 and the outlet 23 are connected to the flow path 21. The inlet 22 and the outlet 23 are connected to the inlet 11 and the outlet 12, respectively.

[0015] The reflectance of the material constituting the flow path member 20 may be higher than the reflectance of the material constituting the housing 10. The material constituting the flow path member 20 may be, for example, a resin material, such as a fluororesin.

[0016] The flow path member 20 is divided into a first member 24, a second member 25, and a third member 26 in the first direction DR1. The first member 24 and the second member 25 each have an inlet 22 and an outlet 23. The third member 26 is between the first member 24 and the second member 25 in the first direction DR1. One end of the first member 24 in the first direction DR1 forms a first end 20a. The other end of the first member 24 in the first direction DR1 contacts one end of the third member 26 in the first direction DR1. The other end of the third member 26 in the first direction DR1 contacts one end of the second member 25 in the first direction DR1. The other end of the second member 25 in the first direction DR1 forms a second end 20b.

[0017] The flow path 21 in the first member 24 has a flow path area (the area of ​​the flow path 21 in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction DR1) that decreases toward the outlet 23. That is, the flow path 21 has a tapered portion in which the flow path area decreases toward the outlet 23.

[0018] A plurality of swirl vanes 27 are formed on the inner wall surface of the flow passage 21. More specifically, the swirl vanes 27 are formed on the inner wall surface of the flow passage 21 in the third member 26. The plurality of swirl vanes 27 are arranged in the circumferential direction. Here, the circumferential direction is the circumferential direction about a rotation axis along the first direction DR1 when viewed along the first direction DR1.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 3, the light-transmitting plate 30 is housed in the housing 10 so as to face the second end 20b (outlet 23) with a gap in the first direction DR1. More specifically, the light-transmitting plate 30 is disposed inside the second member 14. The light-transmitting plate 30 is made of a material that transmits ultraviolet light. The heat sink 40 is housed in the housing 10. More specifically, the heat sink 40 is disposed inside the second member 14. The heat sink 40 has a recess 40a formed therein. The heat sink 40 holds the light-transmitting plate 30 so as to close the recess 40a. The heat sink 40 is made of a material such as a metal material. An example of the material of the heat sink 40 is an aluminum alloy.

[0020] The ultraviolet light source 50 is housed in an internal space 70. Specifically, the housing 10 has the internal space 70. The internal space 70 is a space surrounded by the recess 40a of the heat sink 40 and the partition member 60. The heat sink 40 has a first surface 40s1 and a second surface 40s2. The first surface 40s1 is a surface on which the ultraviolet light source 50 is disposed. The second surface 40s2 is a surface opposite to the first surface 30s1.

[0021] The ultraviolet light source 50 has, for example, a plurality of light-emitting units (not shown). The light-emitting units are, for example, composed of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) that generate ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light source 50 is disposed on the first surface 40s1 of the recess 40a such that the light-emitting units face the light-transmitting plate 30 with a gap therebetween. The partition member 60 is disposed between the light-transmitting plate 30 and the ultraviolet light source 50. The partition member 60 has a plurality of openings (not shown). The light-emitting units are inserted into the openings. The ultraviolet light generated by the ultraviolet light source 50 disposed in this manner is transmitted through the light-transmitting plate 30 and irradiated onto the fluid flowing through the flow path 21 from the outlet 23.

[0022] Here, the sterilization apparatus 100 according to this embodiment is characterized in that an internal space 70 in which the ultraviolet light source 50 is housed communicates with the outside of the housing 10, as shown in Fig. 4. Specifically, a through-path 71 is formed in the housing 10. The sterilization apparatus 100 includes a harness 51. The harness 51 is connected to the ultraviolet light source 50. The harness 51 passes through the through-path 71.

[0023] The internal space 70 is a space surrounded by the recess 40a of the heat sink 40 and the partition member 60, and is defined as a flow path 21 through which a fluid such as water flows. However, there is a risk that the fluid to be sterilized may become moist and enter the internal space 70. This may cause an electrical failure of the ultraviolet light source 50.

[0024] The ultraviolet light source 50 can be a heat source. Therefore, the fluid that has entered the internal space 70 is vaporized by the heat generated by the ultraviolet light source 50. Since the through-path 71 is formed in the housing 10, the vaporized fluid is discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the through-path 71. As a result, the occurrence of electrical failure of the ultraviolet light source 50 is suppressed.

[0025] The through path 71 is formed of a through hole 71a and a groove 71b. As shown in Fig. 4, the heat sink 40 is formed with a through hole 71a penetrating the heat sink 40 so as to open at the first surface 40s1 and the second surface 40s2.

[0026] 5 is a bottom view of the heat sink 40 in the sterilization apparatus 100 according to the embodiment. The area surrounded by the dotted line indicates the location of a groove 71b in the cover member 15b, which will be described later. The through hole 71a overlaps with the groove 71b in a plan view of the heat sink 40. In this way, the through hole 71a communicates from the internal space 70 to the groove 71b in the cover member 15b.

[0027] 6 is a bottom view of the cover member 15b in the sterilization apparatus 100 according to the embodiment. As described later, the groove 71b is a region surrounded by the second linear convex portion 15l2 and the third linear convex portion 15l3 formed on the third surface 15c. In a plan view, the groove 71b is formed in the direction opposite to the direction in which the outlet 12 extends.

[0028] The cover member 15b has a protruding portion 15d. As shown in FIG. 2, the protruding portion 15d is located on the side opposite to the side where the outlet port 12 is arranged. The protruding portion 15d protrudes from the main body portion 15a along the extending direction of the groove 71b. In this manner, the groove 71b communicates with the outside of the housing 10. The harness 51 is taken out from the internal space 70 to the outside of the housing 10 through the through hole 71a and the groove 71b.

[0029] A hole 72 is formed in the second surface 40s2. As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the hole 72 penetrates the heat sink 40 so as to open in the first surface 40s1 and the second surface 40s2. As shown in Fig. 6, a protrusion 73 is formed in the third surface 15c. The protrusion 73 is inserted into the hole 72. In a plan view of the heat sink 40 and the cover member 15b, the hole 72 and the protrusion 73 are disposed at overlapping positions. In other words, with the protrusion 73 inserted into the hole 72, the through hole 71a overlaps with the groove 71b in a plan view.

[0030] The configuration of the through path 71 is not limited to the above configuration, and the through path 71 may be configured in any way to communicate from the internal space 70 to the outside of the housing 10. For example, the through path 71 may be configured such that a through hole is provided on the side surface of the second member 14 without passing through the cover member 15b, and the harness 51 is taken out from the housing 10 through the through hole.

[0031] In a plan view, it is preferable that the direction in which the harness 51 is taken out is not the same as the direction in which the outlet 12 extends. Therefore, it is preferable that the harness 51 is taken out in a direction inclined by 90° or more and 180° or less with respect to the direction in which the outlet 12 extends as shown in Fig. 2, and it is particularly preferable that the harness 51 is taken out from the housing 10 in the opposite direction to the direction of the fluid flowing out from the outlet 12, as in the through-path 71 of this embodiment. In this way, the harness 51 does not interfere with fasteners and the like required for attaching a pipe or the like to the outlet 12.

[0032] The cover member 15b has a third surface 15c and a contact surface 15s. The directions parallel to the third surface 15c are the x-direction and the y-direction. That is, the x-direction and the y-direction are perpendicular to the first direction DR1. The x-direction is perpendicular to the y-direction. The contact surface 15s is a surface that contacts the heat sink 40 and the main body 15a. As shown in FIG. 6, the circular dotted line l3 is the outer diameter line of the heat sink 40 and is the boundary between the heat sink 40 and the main body 15a. That is, in the region surrounded by the circular dotted line l3 (the region including the center point p1), the contact surface 15s contacts the heat sink 40. In the region other than the region surrounded by the circular dotted line l3, the contact surface 15s contacts the main body 15a.

[0033] The cover member 15b is formed with a first circular convex portion 15r1, a second circular convex portion 15r2, a pair of first linear convex portions 15l1, a pair of second linear convex portions 15l2, and a third linear convex portion 15l3. Each of the first circular convex portion 15r1 and the second circular convex portion 15r2 is formed in a circumferential shape centered on the center point p1 of the third surface 15c. The shape of the first circular convex portion 15r1 and the second circular convex portion 15r2 may be an elliptical shape, or may be a partially interrupted shape as shown in FIG. 6.

[0034] The first circular protrusion 15r1 and the second circular protrusion 15r2 have a contact surface 15s1. The contact surface 15s1 is in contact with the second surface 40s2 of the heat sink 40. In other words, the contact surface 15s1 is a surface that receives a force from the heat sink 40.

[0035] The inner diameter r2a of the second circular convex portion 15r2 is larger than the outer diameter r1b of the first circular convex portion. As shown in FIG. 6, the distance from the center point p1 to the closest position in the second circular convex portion 15r2 is the inner diameter r2a of the second circular convex portion 15r2. The distance from the center point p1 to the farthest position in the first circular convex portion 15r1 is the outer diameter r1b of the first circular convex portion 15r1. In this way, a circular groove surrounded by the first circular convex portion 15r1 and the second circular convex portion 15r2 is formed, and the stress at the point pm shown in FIG. 2 is relieved.

[0036] The water pressure in the first direction DR1 is applied to the light-transmitting plate 30 by the fluid flowing through the flow path 21. The water pressure in the first direction DR1 applied to the light-transmitting plate 30 applies pressure in the first direction DR1 to the contact surface 15s of the cover member 15b through the heat sink 40. As described above, the cover member 15b and the main body 15a are fixed by the fixing part 80 on the outer circumferential circle of the center point p1 of the cover member 15b. Therefore, the stress in the vicinity of the through hole 81 increases due to the pressure applied to the contact surface 15s. As a result, the cover member 15b may be plastically deformed. However, as in the cover member 15b according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 6, a circular groove surrounded by a first circular convex part 15r1 and a second circular convex part 15r2 is formed in the cover member 15b, so that the stress in the vicinity of the fixing part 80 is alleviated.

[0037] As described above, the cover member 15b may be formed with a pair of first linear protrusions 15l1 and a pair of second linear protrusions 15l2. The first linear protrusions 15l1 and the second linear protrusions 15l2 have a contact surface 15s2. The contact surface 15s2 is in contact with the second surface 40s2 of the heat sink 40. In other words, the contact surface 15s2 is a surface that receives a force from the heat sink 40.

[0038] The pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 extend in the x direction. The pair of second linear convex portions 15l2 extend in the y direction. Each of the pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 and the pair of second linear convex portions 15l2 is connected to the first circular convex portion 15r1. That is, each of the pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 extends parallel to each other. Each of the pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 extends parallel to each other.

[0039] In a plan view of the cover member 15b, linear convex portions may be formed with point symmetry with respect to a center point p1. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, in a plan view, a line passing through the center point p1 and parallel to the x direction is defined as a first line l1. A line passing through the center point p1 and parallel to the y direction is defined as a second line l2. In a plan view, the pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 are arranged to be line symmetric with respect to the first line l1. In a plan view, the pair of second linear convex portions 15l2 are arranged to be line symmetric with respect to the second line l2. In this way, stress in the vicinity of the fixing portion 80 is alleviated.

[0040] The first linear convex portion 15l1 and the second linear convex portion 15l2 may not be formed in the groove surrounded by the first circular convex portion 15r1. Specifically, in a plan view, the first linear convex portion 15l1 and the second linear convex portion 15l2 are disposed at a position that is away from the center point p1 by the outer diameter r1b of the first circular convex portion 15r1 or more. In this way, stress in the vicinity of the fixing portion 80 is alleviated.

[0041] In plan view, the contact surface 15s includes a contact surface 15s3 that contacts the main body portion 15a. That is, the contact surface 15s3 is a surface in which a through hole 81 is formed, and the through hole 81 is formed in the cover member 15b so as to penetrate the cover member 15b and open at the contact surface 15s3 and the second end 10b. The contact surface 15s3 may contact not only the main body portion 15a but also the heat sink 40. That is, in plan view, the contact surface 15s3 may extend to an area surrounded by a circular dotted line l3, and the contact surfaces 15s1, 15s2, and 15s3 are each disposed on the same plane. In this way, stress in the vicinity of the fixing portion 80 is alleviated.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 6, the third linear convex portion 15l3 is formed on the third surface 15c. The third linear convex portion 15l3 extends along the x direction. That is, the third linear convex portion 15l3 is formed so as to be parallel to the direction in which the first linear convex portion 15l1 is formed. The third linear convex portion 15l3 is arranged so as not to be sandwiched between a pair of first linear convex portions 15l1. As described above, the groove 71b is an area surrounded by the second linear convex portion 15l2, the third linear convex portion 15l3, and the first circular convex portion 15r1. In this way, an area through which the harness 51 passes can be secured.

[0043] The third linear protrusion 15l3 may extend along the y direction. In other words, the third linear protrusion 15l3 may be formed parallel to the direction in which the second linear protrusion 15l2 is formed. In this way, the harness 51 is drawn out from the housing 10 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the outlet 12 in a plan view.

[0044] (Operation of the sterilization device 100) The operation of the sterilization apparatus 100 will now be described.

[0045] Water to be sterilized is supplied from the inlet 11. Since the inlet 11 is connected to the inlet 22, the water to be sterilized flows into the flow path 21 through the inlet 11 and the inlet 22. The water that flows into the flow path 21 flows through the flow path 21 toward the outlet 23. The water that flows through the flow path 21 flows out from the outlet 23. The water that flows out from the outlet 23 flows around the internal space of the second member 14, more specifically, the heat sink 40. The water flows around the heat sink 40, thereby cooling the heat sink 40 and, ultimately, the ultraviolet light source 50. The water that flows through the internal space of the second member 14 flows out from the outlet 12.

[0046] Because ultraviolet light generated by the ultraviolet light source 50 is irradiated from the inlet 22 into the inside of the flow path 21, the water to be sterilized is exposed to ultraviolet light as it flows through the flow path 21. By exposing the water to ultraviolet light in this manner, the sterilization device 100 can sterilize the water that flows in from the inlet 11 and flows out from the outlet 12.

[0047] (Hot water equipment using sterilization device) The following describes a hot water apparatus using the sterilization apparatus 100. This hot water apparatus is referred to as a hot water apparatus 200.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a hot water device 200. As shown in FIG. 7, the hot water device 200 has a hot water supply pipe 201, a circulation pipe 202, and a hot water supply pipe 203. The hot water supply pipe 201 is connected to a water supply system at one end. The hot water supply pipe 201 is connected to a hot water tap at the other end. A heat exchanger 201a is located on the hot water supply pipe 201. The circulation pipe 202 is connected to a circulation adaptor 202a at one end and the other end. The circulation adaptor 202a is attached to a bathtub 204. A pump 202b, a heat exchanger 202c, and a sterilization device 100 are located on the circulation pipe 202. The hot water supply pipe 203 is connected to the hot water supply pipe 201 at one end and to the circulation pipe 202 at the other end. A valve 203a is located on the hot water supply pipe 203.

[0049] In the hot water supply operation, water is supplied to the hot water supply pipe 201 from a water supply system connected to one end of the hot water supply pipe 201. The water passes through the heat exchanger 201a. When passing through the heat exchanger 201a, the water is heated by heat exchange with the combustion gas generated by the burner 201b. The heated water is then dispensed from a hot water tap connected to the other end of the hot water supply pipe 201.

[0050] In the reheating operation, the pump 202b circulates the water stored in the bathtub 204 from one end of the circulation pipe 202 to the other end of the circulation pipe 202 via the circulation adapter 202a. Since the sterilization device 100 is present on the path of the circulation pipe 202, the water circulating through the circulation pipe 202 is sterilized by passing through the sterilization device 100. In addition, when the water circulating through the circulation pipe 202 passes through the heat exchanger 202c, the water is heated by heat exchange with the combustion gas generated by the burner 202d. The heated water reaches the other end of the circulation pipe 202 and is returned to the bathtub 204 from the circulation adapter 202a.

[0051] In the pouring operation, the valve 203a is opened. Therefore, the water that has passed through the heat exchanger 201a and has been heated flows through the pouring pipe 203 and reaches the circulation pipe 202, and is poured from one end of the circulation pipe 202 into the bathtub 204 via the circulation adapter 202a.

[0052] (Effects of sterilization device) A sterilization device 100 according to the present disclosure includes a housing 10 and an ultraviolet light source 50. The housing 10 has a flow path 21 inside. The housing 10 has an inlet 11 through which a fluid to be sterilized flows into the flow path 21, and an outlet 12 through which the fluid flows out of the flow path. The ultraviolet light source 50 irradiates ultraviolet light to the fluid flowing through the flow path 21. The housing 10 has an internal space 70 in which the ultraviolet light source 50 is accommodated. A through path 71 is formed in the housing 10, which communicates the internal space 70 with the outside of the housing 10.

[0053] In this way, the fluid vaporized by the heat generated by the ultraviolet light source 50 is discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the through path 71. As a result, the occurrence of electrical failures in the ultraviolet light source 50 is suppressed.

[0054] The sterilization apparatus 100 includes a harness 51. The harness 51 passes through the through-path 71. The harness 51 is connected to an ultraviolet light source 50. The harness 51 is drawn out from the housing 10 in a direction opposite to the direction of the fluid flowing out from the outlet 12. In this manner, the harness 51 does not interfere with fasteners or the like required for connecting a pipe to the outlet 12.

[0055] The sterilization apparatus 100 further includes a heat sink 40. The housing 10 includes a main body 15a and a cover member 15b. An opening is formed in the main body 15a. The cover member 15b is attached to the main body 15a so as to close the opening. The heat sink 40 is disposed in the opening. The heat sink 40 includes a first surface 40s1 and a second surface 40s2. The ultraviolet light source 50 is disposed on the first surface 40s1. The second surface 40s2 is the surface opposite to the first surface 40s1. A through hole 71a is formed in the heat sink 40. The through hole 71a penetrates the heat sink 40 so as to open at the first surface 40s1 and the second surface 40s2. The cover member 15b includes a third surface 15c facing the second surface 40s2. A groove 71b is formed in the third surface 15c. The through path 71 is formed by the through hole 71a and the groove 71b. In this manner, the harness 51 can be pulled out from the housing 10.

[0056] In the sterilization apparatus 100, a hole 72 is formed in the second surface 40s2. A protrusion 73 to be inserted into the hole 72 is formed in the third surface 15c. With the protrusion 73 inserted into the hole 72, the through hole 71a overlaps with the groove 71b in a plan view. In this way, the through hole 71a communicates with the groove 71b.

[0057] In the sterilization apparatus 100, the cover member 15b has a protruding portion 15d. The protruding portion 15d protrudes from the main body portion 15a along the extending direction of the groove 71b in a plan view. In this way, the harness 51 can be drawn out from the housing 10.

[0058] The sterilization apparatus 100 includes a fixing part 80. The fixing part 80 attaches the cover member 15b to the main body part 15a. In a plan view of the third surface 15c, the fixing part 80 is disposed at a position overlapping the main body part 15a. A first circular convex part 15r1 and a second circular convex part 15r2 are formed on the third surface 15c. Each of the first circular convex part 15r1 and the second circular convex part 15r2 is formed in a circumferential shape centered on the center point p1 of the third surface 15c. The inner diameter r2a of the second circular convex part 15r2 is larger than the outer diameter r1b of the first circular convex part 15r1. The heat sink 40 is in contact with the first circular convex part 15r1 and the second circular convex part 15r2. In this manner, stress in the vicinity of the fixing part 80 is alleviated.

[0059] In the sterilization apparatus 100, a pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 and a pair of second linear convex portions 15l2 are formed on the third surface 15c. The directions parallel to the third surface 15c are the x-direction and the y-direction. The x-direction is perpendicular to the y-direction. The pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 extend in the x-direction. The pair of second linear convex portions 15l2 extend in the y-direction. Each of the pair of first linear convex portions 15l1 and the pair of second linear convex portions 15l2 is connected to the first circular convex portion 15r1. The heat sink 40 is in contact with the first linear convex portion 15l1 and the second linear convex portion 15l2. In this manner, stress in the vicinity of the fixing portion 80 is alleviated.

[0060] In the sterilization apparatus 100, the first linear convex portion 15l1 and the second linear convex portion 15l2 are disposed at a position that is away from the center point p1 by the outer diameter r1b of the first circular convex portion 15r1 or more in plan view. In this way, stress in the vicinity of the fixing portion 80 is alleviated.

[0061] In the sterilization apparatus 100, a line passing through the center point p1 and parallel to the x direction is defined as a first line l1. A line passing through the center point p1 and parallel to the y direction is defined as a second line l2. In a plan view, the pair of first linear protrusions 15l1 are arranged to be line-symmetrical with respect to the first line l1. In a plan view, the pair of second linear protrusions 15l2 are arranged to be line-symmetrical with respect to the second line l2. In this way, stress in the vicinity of the fixing part 80 is alleviated.

[0062] In the sterilization apparatus 100, a third linear convex portion 15l3 is formed on the third surface 15c. The third linear convex portion 15l3 extends along the x direction or the y direction. In this manner, a groove 71b through which the harness 51 passes is formed.

[0063] In the sterilization apparatus 100, the cover member 15b has a contact surface 15s3 that contacts the main body 15a. The contact surface 15s3 is disposed on the same plane as the surfaces of the first circular convex portion 15r1 and the second circular convex portion 15r2 that contact the heat sink 40. The contact surface 15s3 contacts the heat sink 40. In this manner, stress in the vicinity of the fixing portion 80 is alleviated.

[0064] The hot water apparatus 200 according to the present disclosure includes the above-described sterilization apparatus 100. In this manner, the hot water apparatus 200 in which the occurrence of electrical failure of the ultraviolet light source 50 is suppressed can be obtained.

[0065] In order to verify the effect of the sterilization apparatus 100 according to this embodiment as described above, the following strength analysis was carried out.

[0066] (Analysis subject) FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the lid member 300b according to the comparative example. The lid member 300a in the example has the same configuration as the lid member 15b of the sterilization apparatus 100 in the present embodiment shown in FIG. 6. The lid member 300b in the comparative example shown in FIG. 8 basically has the same configuration as the lid member 15b shown in FIG. 6, but the configuration of the third surface 15c is different. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the third surface 15c is formed with a circular convex portion 315r1, a first linear convex portion 315l1, a second linear convex portion 315l2, and a square convex portion 315l3. The circular convex portion 315r1 is formed in a circular shape with the center point p1 of the third surface 15c as the center. The square convex portion 315l3 is formed in a square shape with the center point p1 of the third surface 15c as the center. The first linear convex portion 315l1 and the second linear convex portion 315l2 intersect at the center point p1. The circular convex portion 315r1 intersects with the first linear convex portion 315l1 and the second linear convex portion 315l2. In a plan view, the first linear convex portion 315l1 and the second linear convex portion 315l2 extend in a direction inclined at 45° with respect to each of the first line l1 and the second line l2. In a plan view, the square convex portion 315l3 is disposed so as to surround the circular convex portion 315r1, the first linear convex portion 315l1, and the second linear convex portion 315l2.

[0067] (Analysis results) The von Mises stress at point pm in the vicinity of fixed portion 80 at second end 10b shown in Fig. 2 was evaluated for lid member 300a of the example and lid member 300b of the comparative example. In lid member 300a of the example, the von Mises stress at point pm was 74 MPa. In lid member 300b of the comparative example, the von Mises stress at point pm was 117 MPa. From the above results, it was found that the von Mises stress at point pm in the example was smaller than the von Mises stress at point pm in the comparative example.

[0068] (Additional Note) The components included in this embodiment are described below. (Appendix 1) A housing and an ultraviolet light source; The housing has a flow path therein, The housing has an inlet for allowing a fluid to be sterilized to flow into the flow path and an outlet for allowing the fluid to flow out from the flow path, The ultraviolet light source irradiates the fluid flowing through the flow path with ultraviolet light, and further The housing has an internal space in which the ultraviolet light source is housed, The sterilization device, wherein the housing has a through-path formed therein, the through-path connecting the internal space to the outside of the housing. (Appendix 2) A harness passing through the through-path is provided, the harness is connected to the ultraviolet light source; The sterilization device described in Appendix 1, wherein the harness is pulled out from the housing in a direction opposite to the direction of the fluid flowing out of the outlet. (Appendix 3) Further comprising a heat sink; The housing has a main body and a cover member, The body portion has an opening formed therein, the cover member is attached to the main body portion so as to close the opening, The heat sink is disposed in the opening, the heat sink has a first surface on which the ultraviolet light source is disposed and a second surface opposite the first surface; a through hole is formed in the heat sink so as to penetrate the heat sink and open at the first surface and the second surface; the cover member has a third surface facing the second surface, The third surface has a groove formed therein, The sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the through path is formed by the through hole and the groove. (Appendix 4) The second surface has a hole formed therein, a protrusion to be inserted into the hole is formed on the third surface; 4. The sterilization device according to claim 3, wherein when the protrusion is inserted into the hole, the through hole overlaps with the groove in a plan view. (Appendix 5) The cover member has a protrusion, The sterilization device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the main body in a direction in which the groove extends in a plan view. (Appendix 6) a fixing portion for attaching the cover member to the main body portion, The fixing portion is disposed at a position overlapping the main body portion in a plan view of the third surface, and a first circular protrusion and a second circular protrusion are formed on the third surface; each of the first circular convex portion and the second circular convex portion is formed circumferentially about a center point of the third surface; The inner diameter of the second circular protrusion is larger than the outer diameter of the first circular protrusion, 4. The sterilization apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the heat sink is in contact with the first circular convex portion and the second circular convex portion. (Appendix 7) a pair of first linear protrusions and a pair of second linear protrusions are formed on the third surface; If the directions parallel to the third surface are the x direction and the y direction, the x-direction is perpendicular to the y-direction; The pair of first linear protrusions extend in the x direction, The pair of second linear protrusions extend in the y direction, each of the pair of first linear protrusions and the pair of second linear protrusions is connected to the first circular protrusion; 7. The sterilization apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the heat sink is in contact with the first linear convex portion and the second linear convex portion. (Appendix 8) 8. The sterilization device of claim 7, wherein, in the planar view, the first linear convex portion and the second linear convex portion are arranged at a position away from the center point that is equal to or greater than the outer diameter of the first circular convex portion. (Appendix 9) A straight line that passes through the center point and is parallel to the x-direction is defined as a first straight line, When a straight line passing through the center point and parallel to the y direction is defined as a second straight line, In the plan view, the pair of first linear protrusions are arranged to be symmetrical with respect to the first straight line, The sterilization device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the pair of second linear convex portions are arranged so as to be symmetrical with respect to the second straight line. (Appendix 10) a third linear protrusion is formed on the third surface; 10. The sterilization apparatus according to any one of Appendix 7 to Appendix 9, wherein the third linear convex portion extends along the x direction or the y direction. (Appendix 11) the cover member has a contact surface in contact with the main body portion, the contact surface is disposed on the same plane as a surface of the first circular protrusion and a surface of the second circular protrusion that are in contact with the heat sink, 11. The sterilization apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the contact surface is in contact with the heat sink. (Appendix 12) A hot water device comprising the sterilization device according to any one of appendix 1 to appendix 11.

[0069] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and should not be considered as limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 10 housing, 10a, 20a first end, 10b, 20b second end, 11, 22 inlet, 12, 23 outlet, 13, 24 first member, 14, 25 second member, 15a main body, 15b, 300a, 300b cover member, 15c third surface, 15d protrusion, 15l2, 315l2 second linear convex portion, 15l3 third linear convex portion, 15l1, 315l1 first linear convex portion, 15r1 first circular convex portion, 15r2 second circular convex portion, 15s, 15s1, 15s2, 15s3 contact surface, 20 flow path member, 21 flow path, 26 third member, 27 swirl vane, 30 light-transmitting plate, 40 heat sink, 40a recess, 40s1 first surface, 40s2 Second surface, 50 ultraviolet light source, 51 harness, 60 partition member, 70 internal space, 71 through path, 71a, 81 through hole, 71b groove, 72 hole, 73 protrusion, 80 fixing part, 100 sterilization device, 200 hot water device, 201 hot water supply pipe, 201a, 202c heat exchanger, 201b, 202d burner, 202 circulation pipe, 202a circulation adapter, 202b pump, 203 hot water pipe, 203a valve, 204 bathtub, 315l3 square convex portion, 315r1 circular convex portion, DR1 first direction, l1 first straight line, l2 second straight line, l3 dotted line, p1 center point, r1b outer diameter, r2a inner diameter.

Claims

1. A housing and an ultraviolet light source; The housing has a flow path therein, The housing has an inlet for allowing a fluid to be sterilized to flow into the flow path and an outlet for allowing the fluid to flow out from the flow path, The ultraviolet light source irradiates the fluid flowing through the flow path with ultraviolet light, and further The housing has an internal space in which the ultraviolet light source is housed, The sterilization device, wherein the housing has a through-path formed therein, the through-path connecting the internal space to the outside of the housing.

2. A harness passing through the through-path is provided, the harness is connected to the ultraviolet light source; The sterilization device according to claim 1 , wherein the harness is drawn out from the housing in a direction opposite to a direction of the fluid flowing out of the outlet.

3. Further comprising a heat sink; The housing has a main body and a cover member, The body portion has an opening formed therein, the cover member is attached to the main body portion so as to close the opening, The heat sink is disposed in the opening, the heat sink has a first surface on which the ultraviolet light source is disposed and a second surface opposite the first surface; a through hole is formed in the heat sink so as to penetrate the heat sink and open at the first surface and the second surface; the cover member has a third surface facing the second surface, The third surface has a groove formed therein, The sterilization device according to claim 1 , wherein the through path is formed by the through hole and the groove.

4. The second surface has a hole formed therein, a protrusion to be inserted into the hole is formed on the third surface; The sterilization device according to claim 3 , wherein the through-hole overlaps with the groove in a plan view when the projection is inserted into the hole.

5. The cover member has a protrusion, The sterilization device according to claim 4 , wherein the protrusion protrudes from the main body in a direction in which the groove extends in a plan view.

6. a fixing portion for attaching the cover member to the main body portion, The fixing portion is disposed at a position overlapping the main body portion in a plan view of the third surface, and a first circular protrusion and a second circular protrusion are formed on the third surface; each of the first circular convex portion and the second circular convex portion is formed circumferentially about a center point of the third surface; The inner diameter of the second circular protrusion is larger than the outer diameter of the first circular protrusion, The sterilization apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the heat sink is in contact with the first circular protrusion and the second circular protrusion.

7. a pair of first linear protrusions and a pair of second linear protrusions are formed on the third surface; When directions parallel to the third surface are defined as x direction and y direction, the x-direction is perpendicular to the y-direction; The pair of first linear protrusions extend in the x direction, The pair of second linear protrusions extend in the y direction, each of the pair of first linear protrusions and the pair of second linear protrusions is connected to the first circular protrusion; The sterilization apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the heat sink is in contact with the first linear convex portion and the second linear convex portion.

8. The sterilization device according to claim 7 , wherein, in the plan view, the first linear convex portion and the second linear convex portion are disposed at a position away from the center point by at least the outer diameter of the first circular convex portion.

9. A straight line passing through the center point and parallel to the x-direction is defined as a first straight line, When a straight line passing through the center point and parallel to the y direction is defined as a second straight line, In the plan view, the pair of first linear protrusions are arranged to be symmetrical with respect to the first straight line, The sterilization apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the pair of second linear protrusions are arranged to be line-symmetrical with respect to the second straight line.

10. a third linear protrusion is formed on the third surface; The sterilization apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the third linear convex portion extends along the x direction or the y direction.

11. the cover member has a contact surface in contact with the main body portion, the contact surface is disposed in the same plane as a surface of the first circular protrusion and a surface of the second circular protrusion that are in contact with the heat sink; The sterilization apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the contact surface is in contact with the heat sink.

12. A hot water device comprising the sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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