Fluid sterilization apparatus and method of manufacturing fluid sterilization apparatus

Abstract

To provide a fluid sterilization apparatus with less restriction of an installation space.SOLUTION: A fluid sterilization apparatus 10 has a housing 12 that is inserted into a mounting port 56 through a side wall 54 of a flow tube 50 and that compartments a light source chamber 16 that extends in a direction intersecting or orthogonal to the axial direction of the flow tube 50 in an interior 52 of the flow tube 50, and a light source 14 that is disposed in the light source chamber 16 and that is provided with an LED 30 that outputs ultraviolet light 18. The housing 12 has a transmissive member 20 made of a material that transmits the ultraviolet light 18 and a heat-dissipating member 22 made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the transmissive member 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid sterilization device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a fluid sterilization device that irradiates ultraviolet light onto a fluid such as water flowing through a flow path and continuously sterilizes the fluid. For example, a configuration is known in which ultraviolet light is irradiated in the flow direction of the fluid using a light source disposed at the end of the flow path (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

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

[0004] There is a need to retrofit a fluid sterilization device to a flow path that has not been sterilized with ultraviolet light. There are cases where there is not enough space around the piping that constitutes the flow path, making it difficult to install a retrofit fluid sterilization device or to add piping to bypass the flow path to the retrofit fluid sterilization device.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and one of its exemplary objects is to provide a fluid sterilizing device that requires less space for installation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A fluid sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a housing that is inserted into an attachment port that penetrates a sidewall of a flow path pipe and that defines a light source chamber that extends inside the flow path pipe in a direction intersecting or perpendicular to the axial direction of the flow path pipe, and a light source that is disposed in the light source chamber and includes an LED that outputs ultraviolet light. The housing includes a light-transmitting member made of a material that transmits ultraviolet light, and a heat dissipating member made of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a fluid sterilization device, which includes the steps of forming an attachment port penetrating a sidewall of a flow path pipe, inserting a housing that defines a light source chamber in which a light source having an LED that outputs ultraviolet light is disposed, the housing including a light-transmitting member made of a material that transmits ultraviolet light and a heat dissipating member made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member, into the inside of the flow path pipe through the attachment port, and fixing the housing to the flow path pipe.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fluid sterilizing device with fewer restrictions on installation space can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a top view illustrating a schematic configuration of a welded portion according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilizing device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a rear view showing generally the configuration of a fluid sterilizing device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device according to a tenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. In order to facilitate understanding of the description, the dimensional ratios of the components in each drawing do not necessarily match the actual dimensional ratios.

[0011] (First embodiment) 1 and 2 are cross-sectional views showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10 according to a first embodiment. The fluid sterilization device 10 is configured to irradiate a fluid flowing through an interior 52 of a flow path pipe 50 with ultraviolet light 18 to sterilize the fluid. An example of the fluid is water, and in this case, the fluid sterilization device 10 can be called a running water sterilization device.

[0012] The fluid sterilization device 10 includes a housing 12 and a light source 14. The housing 12 is configured to define a light source chamber 16 that houses the light source 14. The housing 12 is inserted into an attachment port 56 that penetrates a side wall 54 of the flow path tube 50. The housing 12 extends in an interior 52 of the flow path tube 50 in a predetermined direction that intersects or is perpendicular to the axial direction of the flow path tube 50. The light source 14 is disposed in the light source chamber 16. The light source 14 is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light 18. The wavelength of the ultraviolet light 18 is, for example, 200 nm or more and 320 nm or less, for example, 240 nm or more and 280 nm or less.

[0013] In the drawings, the axial direction of the flow path pipe 50 is the z direction. In the example of Figures 1 and 2, the flow direction of the fluid indicated by the arrow F inside 52 of the flow path pipe 50 is the +z direction. In addition, the direction from the central axis of the flow path pipe 50 toward the mounting port 56 is the +y direction, and the direction perpendicular to the y and z directions is the x direction. These directions are set for the convenience of explanation, and do not in any way limit the directions when the fluid sterilization device 10 is installed or used.

[0014] The housing 12 includes a light-transmitting member 20, a heat dissipating member 22, a first cap 24, and a second cap 26. The light-transmitting member 20 and the heat dissipating member 22 are members extending in a predetermined direction (e.g., the y direction) along the light source chamber 16. The first cap 24 and the second cap 26 are provided on both ends of the light-transmitting member 20 and the heat dissipating member 22 in the predetermined direction. The light source chamber 16 is partitioned by the light-transmitting member 20, the heat dissipating member 22, the first cap 24, and the second cap 26, and is sealed against the fluid flowing through the interior 52 of the flow path tube 50 by these members.

[0015] The light-transmitting member 20 is made of a material that transmits the ultraviolet light 18. The light-transmitting member 20 is made of, for example, quartz (SiO2), sapphire (Al2O3), or amorphous fluororesin. The light-transmitting member 20 has an outer surface 20a exposed to the fluid flowing inside 52 of the flow path tube 50, and an inner surface 20b exposed to the light source chamber 16. The light-transmitting member 20 is configured, for example, so that the thickness from the outer surface 20a to the inner surface 20b is constant. The outer surface 20a of the light-transmitting member 20 has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction, and is configured, for example, as a cylindrical curved surface. By having the outer surface 20a of the light-transmitting member 20 protrude in the axial direction, a structure that is less likely to obstruct the flow of the fluid inside 52 of the flow path tube 50 can be achieved. The light-transmitting member 20 has a first end 20c and a second end 20d, and extends in a predetermined direction from the first end 20c to the second end 20d.

[0016] The heat dissipation member 22 is made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member 20. The heat dissipation member 22 is made of a metal material such as stainless steel, copper, or aluminum. The heat dissipation member 22 has an outer surface 22a exposed to the fluid flowing inside 52 of the flow path tube 50 and an inner surface 22b exposed to the light source chamber 16. The outer surface 22a of the heat dissipation member 22 has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction, and is made of, for example, a cylindrical curved surface. By having the outer surface 22a of the heat dissipation member 22 protrude in the axial direction, a structure that is less likely to obstruct the flow of the fluid inside 52 of the flow path tube 50 can be obtained. The inner surface 22b of the heat dissipation member 22 is a surface to which the light source 14 is attached, and is, for example, a flat surface. The heat dissipation member 22 has a first end 22c and a second end 22d, and extends in a predetermined direction from the first end 22c to the second end 22d. A sealing member (not shown), such as a gasket or a seal ring, may be provided between the heat dissipation member 22 and the light transmitting member 20 .

[0017] The first cap 24 is provided on the first ends 20c, 22c of the light-transmitting member 20 and the heat-dissipating member 22. The second cap 26 is provided on the second ends 20d, 22d of the light-transmitting member 20 and the heat-dissipating member 22, which are opposite to the first ends 20c, 22c. The first cap 24 and the second cap 26 are fixed to the heat-dissipating member 22, for example, and sandwich and fix the light-transmitting member 20. A sealing member (not shown), such as a gasket or a seal ring, may be provided between each of the first cap 24 and the second cap 26 and the light-transmitting member 20. The first cap 24 and the second cap 26 are made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member 20, for example, made of a metal material similar to that of the light-transmitting member 20.

[0018] The first cap 24 is inserted into the mounting port 56 of the flow passage pipe 50 and fixed to the flow passage pipe 50. The first cap 24 is, for example, welded to the flow passage pipe 50. The first cap 24 is formed around the entire circumference of the edge of the mounting port 56. The first cap 24 is fixed to the flow passage pipe 50 by a weld 40. The first cap 24 has a portion that is exposed to the outside of the flow passage pipe 50 when fixed to the flow passage pipe 50.

[0019] The first cap 24 may have an opening 28 that connects between the outside of the flow path pipe 50 and the light source chamber 16. The opening 28 is used, for example, to pass a power line 34 that supplies power to the light source 14 from the outside of the flow path pipe 50. The opening 28 may have a size that allows the light source 14 to pass through. In this case, maintenance of the light source 14 can be performed through the opening 28. The opening 28 may be provided with a removable cover (not shown) configured to cover the opening 28.

[0020] The second cap 26 contacts the inner surface 58 of the flow passage pipe 50 on the opposite side of the mounting opening 56 across the central axis of the flow passage pipe 50. The second cap 26 is fixed to the flow passage pipe 50, for example, by abutting against the inner surface 58 of the flow passage pipe 50.

[0021] The light source 14 includes an LED 30 and a substrate 32. The LED 30 is a light emitting diode (LED) configured to output ultraviolet light 18, and is, for example, a semiconductor light emitting element using aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN). The LED 30 is mounted on the substrate 32 and arranged so as to irradiate the ultraviolet light 18 in the axial direction (for example, the -z direction). The light source 14 can include a plurality of LEDs 30 mounted on the substrate 32. The plurality of LEDs 30 are arranged, for example, in a predetermined direction from the first cap 24 to the second cap 26. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the light source 14 includes five LEDs 30, but the number of LEDs 30 is not particularly limited and may be four or less, or six or more.

[0022] The substrate 32 extends in a predetermined direction from the first cap 24 toward the second cap 26. The substrate 32 is disposed along the inner surface 22b of the heat dissipation member 22. The substrate 32 contacts the inner surface 22b of the heat dissipation member 22 to transfer the driving heat of the LEDs 30 to the heat dissipation member 22. The substrate 32 is made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member 20, for example, and is made of a metal material similar to that of the heat dissipation member 22. The surface of the substrate 32 may be made of a material having a high reflectance of ultraviolet light 18, and may be made of aluminum or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0023] Next, a method for manufacturing or attaching the fluid sterilizer 10 will be described. Fig. 3 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of the fluid sterilizer 10 before attachment to the flow path pipe 50. As shown in Fig. 3, the fluid sterilizer 10 is configured to have a cylindrical or columnar shape as a whole. The fluid sterilizer 10 can be inserted into an attachment port 56 penetrating a side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50. The attachment port 56 can be formed, for example, to have a diameter equal to or larger than the diameters of the first cap 24 and the second cap 26. The attachment port 56 can be formed, for example, after the fact on an existing flow path pipe 50.

[0024] Next, the housing 12 of the fluid sterilization device 10 is fixed to the flow path pipe 50. For example, the housing 12 can be fixed to the flow path pipe 50 by welding the housing 12 to the flow path pipe 50. The gap between the attachment port 56 of the flow path pipe 50 and the first cap 24 of the fluid sterilization device 10 is welded, and a weld 40 is formed around the entire periphery of the edge of the attachment port 56, as shown in Fig. 4, for example, thereby fixing the housing 12 to the flow path pipe 50 and sealing the attachment port 56 of the flow path pipe 50.

[0025] 1 and 2, the irradiation direction of the ultraviolet light 18 is opposite (e.g., -z direction) to the fluid flow direction (e.g., +z direction) indicated by arrow F. The irradiation direction of the ultraviolet light 18 may be the same direction (e.g., +z direction) as the fluid flow direction (e.g., +z direction) indicated by arrow F. The fluid sterilization device 10 may be inserted obliquely through the mounting port 56, and the irradiation direction of the ultraviolet light 18 may be inclined with respect to the fluid flow direction.

[0026] According to this embodiment, since the fluid sterilization device 10 is configured in a cylindrical or columnar shape, the fluid flowing through the interior 52 of the flow path pipe 50 can be sterilized using ultraviolet light 18 simply by inserting and fixing the fluid sterilization device 10 into the attachment port 56 of the flow path pipe 50. Since most of the fluid sterilization device 10 is disposed inside 52 of the flow path pipe 50, the fluid sterilization device 10 can be installed even if there is not enough space around the flow path pipe 50. Furthermore, the fluid sterilization device 10 can be introduced after the fact into existing equipment such as factory piping simply by forming the attachment port 56 after the fact.

[0027] According to this embodiment, the ultraviolet light 18 can be irradiated along the flow direction of the fluid inside 52 of the flow path pipe 50, so that the ultraviolet light 18 can be efficiently applied to the fluid, improving the sterilization performance. Also, since the heat dissipation member 22 is disposed inside 52 of the flow path pipe 50, the heat dissipation member 22 can be cooled by using the fluid flowing inside 52 of the flow path pipe 50, and the LEDs 30 can be efficiently cooled.

[0028] According to this embodiment, by welding the housing 12 to the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50, the fluid sterilization device 10 can be fixed to the flow path pipe 50 and the mounting port 56 can be sealed. Furthermore, by welding the housing 12 to the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50, the side wall 54 can be used to cool the heat dissipation member 22, and the LEDs 30 can be efficiently cooled.

[0029] According to this embodiment, no through hole is provided on the opposite side of the mounting port 56 across the central axis of the flow path pipe 50. In other words, since there is no need to provide two through holes so as to penetrate the entire flow path pipe 50, the effort of subsequent processing of the flow path pipe 50 can be reduced. If a through hole is to be provided at a position opposite the mounting port 56, the positional accuracy of the through hole relative to the mounting port 56 becomes important. In other words, it is necessary to improve the positional accuracy of the two through holes so that the housing 12 can pass through the two through holes. There are cases where it is not easy to perform subsequent processing of the flow path pipe 50 while maintaining such positional accuracy. According to this embodiment, since it is necessary to form only one mounting port 56, the effort of forming two through holes is not required. As a result, subsequent installation of the fluid sterilization device can be facilitated, and the convenience of the user can be improved.

[0030] Second embodiment 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10A according to a second embodiment. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the housing 12 is fixed to the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50 via a fixing member 42A, rather than by welding. The second embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0031] The fluid sterilization device 10A includes a housing 12A, a light source 14, and a fixing member 42A. The housing 12A includes a light-transmitting member 20, a heat dissipation member 22, a first cap 24A, and a second cap 26. The light source 14, the light-transmitting member 20, the heat dissipation member 22, and the second cap 26 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0032] The fixing member 42A is provided around the mounting port 56, and is fixed by welding or the like to the outside of the side wall 54 of the flow passage pipe 50. The fixing member 42A has mounting holes for mounting fastening members 44 such as screws or bolts.

[0033] The first cap 24A can be configured similarly to the first cap 24 according to the above-described first embodiment, but differs in that it further includes a flange 46. The flange 46 is fixed to the fixing member 42A by a fastening member 44. A sealing member (not shown), such as a gasket or a seal ring, can be provided between the fixing member 42A and the flange 46.

[0034] Next, a manufacturing method or an installation method of the fluid sterilization device 10A will be described. First, an attachment port 56 is formed in the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50, and a fixing member 42A is attached around the attachment port 56. Next, the fluid sterilization device 10A is inserted into the attachment port 56, and the flange 46 of the first cap 24A is fixed to the fixing member 42A using the fastening member 44.

[0035] This embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the above-described first embodiment. According to this embodiment, the fluid sterilization device 10A can be detachably fixed to the flow path pipe 50 by using the fixing member 42A and the fastening member 44. This facilitates maintenance such as cleaning and replacement of the fluid sterilization device 10A.

[0036] Third embodiment 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10B according to a third embodiment. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the housing 12 is fixed by a fixing member 42B provided on the opposite side of the central axis of the flow path pipe 50 from the mounting port 56. Below, the third embodiment will be described focusing on the differences with the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0037] The fluid sterilization device 10B includes a housing 12, a light source 14, and a fixing member 42B. The housing 12 and the light source 14 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above. The fixing member 42B is provided on the opposite side of the central axis of the flow passage pipe 50 from the mounting port 56, and is provided between the second cap 26 and the inner surface 58 of the flow passage pipe 50. The fixing member 42B is attached to the inner surface 58 of the flow passage pipe 50 by welding or the like. The fixing member 42B may be fixed to the side wall 54 of the flow passage pipe 50 by a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt. The fixing member 42B includes a recess 48 for receiving the second cap 26. The fixing member 42B engages with the second cap 26 and restricts the displacement of the second cap 26 in the axial direction (e.g., z direction).

[0038] According to this embodiment, the housing 12 can be fixed at the positions of both the first cap 24 and the second cap 26, and both ends of the housing 12 can be firmly fixed to the flow passage pipe 50.

[0039] This embodiment may be combined with the above-mentioned second embodiment. In this case, the fixing member 42A according to the second embodiment may be referred to as the first fixing member, and the fixing member 42B according to the third embodiment may be referred to as the second fixing member, and the fluid sterilization device may include both the first fixing member and the second fixing member.

[0040] (Fourth embodiment) 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10C according to a fourth embodiment. The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the housing 12 is fixed by a fixing member 42C provided on the opposite side of the central axis of the flow path pipe 50 from the mounting port 56. Below, the fourth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0041] The fluid sterilization device 10C includes a housing 12, a light source 14, and a fixing member 42C. The housing 12 and the light source 14 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above. The fixing member 42C is provided at a position opposite the mounting port 56 across the central axis of the flow path pipe 50. The fixing member 42C is a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt, and is attached from the outside of the flow path pipe 50. The fixing member 42C penetrates the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50 and presses the housing 12 in a predetermined direction (+y direction). The fixing member 42C engages with the second cap 26 and restricts displacement of the second cap 26 in the axial direction (e.g., z direction).

[0042] According to this embodiment, the housing 12 can be fixed at the positions of both the first cap 24 and the second cap 26, and both ends of the housing 12 can be firmly fixed to the flow passage pipe 50.

[0043] This embodiment may be combined with the second embodiment described above. In this case, the fixing member 42A according to the second embodiment may be referred to as the first fixing member, and the fixing member 42C according to the fourth embodiment may be referred to as the second fixing member, and the fluid sterilization device may include both the first fixing member and the second fixing member.

[0044] Fifth embodiment 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10D according to a fifth embodiment. The fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it further includes a first fixing member 60 and a second fixing member 62 that fix the housing 12 inside 52 of the flow path pipe 50. The fifth embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences with the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0045] The fluid sterilization device 10D includes a housing 12, a light source 14, a first fixing member 60, and a second fixing member 62. The housing 12 and the light source 14 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0046] The first fixing member 60 is provided near the mounting opening 56. The first fixing member 60 is configured to fix the first end 22c of the heat dissipation member 22. The first fixing member 60 includes a first mounting portion 60a and a first support portion 60b. The first mounting portion 60a extends axially along the inner surface 58 of the flow passage pipe 50 and is attached to the flow passage pipe 50. The first mounting portion 60a may be fixed to the side wall 54 of the flow passage pipe 50 by welding or by a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt. The first support portion 60b extends in a predetermined direction along the heat dissipation member 22 and contacts the outer surface 22a of the heat dissipation member 22.

[0047] The second fixing member 62 is provided on the opposite side of the attachment port 56 across the central axis of the flow passage pipe 50. The second fixing member 62 is provided, for example, on the opposite side of the first fixing member 60 across the central axis of the flow passage pipe 50. The second fixing member 62 is configured to fix the second end 22d of the heat dissipation member 22. The second fixing member 62 includes a second attachment portion 62a and a second support portion 62b. The second attachment portion 62a extends in the axial direction along the inner surface 58 of the flow passage pipe 50 and is attached to the flow passage pipe 50. The second attachment portion 62a may be fixed to the side wall 54 of the flow passage pipe 50 by welding, or may be fixed by a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt. The second support portion 62b extends in a predetermined direction along the heat dissipation member 22 and contacts the outer surface 22a of the heat dissipation member 22.

[0048] The first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 regulate the displacement of the fluid sterilization device 10D in the axial direction (e.g., z direction). The first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 can be configured so that their height or protrusion from the inner surface 58 is small in the flow direction (+z direction) indicated by the arrow F so as not to impede the flow of the fluid.

[0049] According to this embodiment, by further providing a first fixing member 60 and a second fixing member 62, the housing 12 can be fixed at both the positions of the first cap 24 and the second cap 26, and both ends of the housing 12 can be firmly fixed to the flow path pipe 50.

[0050] In a modified example, only one of the first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 may be provided. At least one of the first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 according to the fifth embodiment may be combined with the second, third or fourth embodiment described above.

[0051] Sixth embodiment Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10E according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 10 is a rear view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10E according to a sixth embodiment, as viewed in the opposite direction (-z direction) to the flow direction indicated by arrow F in Fig. 9. The sixth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that it further includes a fixing member 64 that extends in a direction different from the direction in which the housing 12 extends in the interior 52 of the flow path pipe 50. The sixth embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the fifth embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0052] The fluid sterilization device 10E includes a housing 12, a light source 14, and a fixing member 64. The housing 12 and the light source 14 can be configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0053] The fixing member 64 extends in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction and different from a predetermined direction (e.g., y direction) in which the housing 12 extends. In the example shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the fixing member 64 extends in a direction (e.g., x direction) perpendicular to the predetermined direction (e.g., y direction) in which the housing 12 extends. The fixing member 64 has a first end 64a and a second end 64b attached to the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50. The first end 64a and the second end 64b may be fixed to the side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50 by welding, or may be fixed by a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt. The fixing member 64 contacts the outer surface 22a of the heat dissipation member 22.

[0054] 9 and 10, a plurality of fixing members 64 can be provided. The plurality of fixing members 64 can be arranged so as to be aligned in a predetermined direction (e.g., the y direction) in which the housing 12 extends. The number of the plurality of fixing members 64 is not particularly limited, and may be two, or may be three or more.

[0055] According to this embodiment, by further providing the fixing member 64, the housing 12 can be fixed at a position separated from the first cap 24 and the second cap 26, and the housing 12 can be firmly fixed to the flow path pipe 50.

[0056] The fixing member 64 according to the sixth embodiment may be combined with the second, third or fourth embodiment described above, or may be combined with at least one of the first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0057] Seventh embodiment 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization apparatus 10F according to the seventh embodiment. The seventh embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that fins 22f are provided on the outer surface 22a of the heat dissipation member 22. The seventh embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences with the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0058] The fluid sterilization device 10E includes a housing 12F and a light source 14. The light source 14 may be configured similarly to the first embodiment described above. The housing 12F may be configured similarly to the first embodiment described above, except that the heat dissipation member 22 is provided with fins 22f.

[0059] The heat dissipation member 22 has a plurality of fins 22f. The plurality of fins 22f are configured to protrude in the axial direction. The plurality of fins 22f can be arranged to line up in a predetermined direction (e.g., the y direction) in which the housing 12F extends. According to this embodiment, the heat dissipation member 22 has a plurality of fins 22f, so that the cooling performance due to the flow of the fluid can be improved.

[0060] The fin 22f of the seventh embodiment may be combined with the second, third or fourth embodiment described above, or may be combined with at least one of the first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 of the fifth embodiment, or may be combined with the fixing member 64 of the sixth embodiment.

[0061] Eighth embodiment 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10G according to an eighth embodiment. The eighth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the housing 12G is not cylindrical or columnar, but rectangular tubular or prismatic. The eighth embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, and descriptions of commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0062] The fluid sterilization device 10G includes a housing 12G and a light source 14. The light source 14 can be configured similarly to the first embodiment described above. The housing 12G includes a light-transmitting member 20, a heat dissipation member 22, a first cap 24, and a second cap 26. The housing 12G can be configured similarly to the first embodiment described above, except that the housing 12G is entirely in the shape of a rectangular tube or a rectangular column.

[0063] The outer surface 20a of the light-transmitting member 20 has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction, and is formed of, for example, a rectangular cylindrical flat surface. Similarly, the outer surface 22a of the heat dissipating member 22 has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction, and is formed of, for example, a rectangular cylindrical flat surface. By having the outer surfaces 20a, 22a of the light-transmitting member 20 and the heat dissipating member 22 protrude in the axial direction, a structure that is less likely to obstruct the flow of fluid inside 52 of the flow passage pipe 50 can be achieved.

[0064] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the outer shape of the housing 12G in a cross section perpendicular to a specific direction (e.g., the y direction) is rectangular, but it may have a shape other than a rectangle, and may have any polygonal shape such as a pentagon, hexagon, or octagon.

[0065] The shape of the housing 12G according to the eighth embodiment may be combined with the second, third or fourth embodiment described above, or with at least one of the first fixing member 60 and the second fixing member 62 according to the fifth embodiment, or with the fixing member 64 according to the sixth embodiment, or with the fin 22f according to the seventh embodiment.

[0066] Ninth embodiment 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10H according to a ninth embodiment. The ninth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the length L1 of the housing 12 inserted into the interior 52 of the flow path pipe 50 is smaller than the inner diameter D of the flow path pipe 50, and a gap 70 is provided between the inner surface 58 of the flow path pipe 50 and the second cap 26. Below, the ninth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences with the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0067] The fluid sterilization device 10H includes a housing 12H and a light source 14H. The housing 12H and the light source 14H can be configured similarly to the first embodiment described above, except that the length in a predetermined direction (e.g., the y direction) is relatively small. The length L1 of the housing 12 inserted into the interior 52 of the flow path tube 50 is, for example, greater than half the inner diameter D / 2 of the flow path tube 50 and greater than the distance L2 of the gap 70. The length L1 of the housing 12 inserted into the interior 52 of the flow path tube 50 may be equal to half the inner diameter D / 2 of the flow path tube 50, or may be smaller than half the inner diameter D / 2 of the flow path tube 50.

[0068] According to this embodiment, since the length L1 of the housing 12 inserted into the interior 52 of the flow path pipe 50 is relatively small, it is possible to achieve a configuration that is less likely to impede the flow of fluid.

[0069] The fluid sterilization device 10H of the ninth embodiment may be combined with the second embodiment described above, with the first fixing member 60 of the fifth embodiment, with the fixing member 64 of the sixth embodiment, with the fin 22f of the seventh embodiment, or with the rectangular cylindrical or rectangular columnar housing 12G of the eighth embodiment.

[0070] 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a fluid sterilization device 10J according to a tenth embodiment. The tenth embodiment differs from the above-described ninth embodiment in that a second LED 30b is further provided to irradiate second ultraviolet light 18b in a predetermined direction (e.g., y direction) in which the housing 12J extends. Below, the tenth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences with the ninth embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0071] The fluid sterilization device 10J includes a housing 12J and a light source 14J. The housing 12J includes a heat dissipation member 22, a first cap 24, a second cap 26, a first light-transmitting member 36a, and a second light-transmitting member 36b. The heat dissipation member 22, the first cap 24, and the second cap 26 can be configured similarly to the first embodiment. The light source 14J includes a first LED 30a, a second LED 30b, and a substrate 32.

[0072] The first light-transmitting member 36a can be configured similarly to the light-transmitting member 20 according to the above-described embodiment. The first light-transmitting member 36a is configured to transmit the first ultraviolet light 18a emitted from the first LED 30a in the axial direction (e.g., the -z direction). The second light-transmitting member 36b is provided in the second cap 26 and configured to transmit the second ultraviolet light 18b emitted from the second LED 30b in a predetermined direction (e.g., the -y direction).

[0073] The first LED 30a may be configured similarly to the LED 30 according to the above embodiment, and is arranged to irradiate the first ultraviolet light 18a in the axial direction (e.g., the -z direction). The light source 14J may include a plurality of the first LEDs 30a, and the plurality of the first LEDs 30a are arranged in a predetermined direction from the first cap 24 to the second cap 26.

[0074] The second LED 30b is disposed so as to irradiate the second ultraviolet light 18b in a predetermined direction from the first cap 24 toward the second cap 26. The second LED 30b is configured to irradiate the second ultraviolet light 18b in the radial direction of the flow path tube 50. The second LED 30b irradiates the second ultraviolet light 18b toward the fluid flowing through the gap 70 between the second cap 26 and the inner surface 58 of the flow path tube 50. The light source 14J may include a plurality of second LEDs 30b.

[0075] According to this embodiment, by combining the second LED 30b, the second ultraviolet light 18b can be irradiated to the fluid flowing through the gap 70 between the housing 12J and the inner surface 58 of the flow path tube 50, thereby increasing the amount of ultraviolet light that acts on the fluid and improving the sterilization performance.

[0076] The fluid sterilization device 10H of the ninth embodiment may be combined with the second embodiment described above, with the first fixing member 60 of the fifth embodiment, with the fixing member 64 of the sixth embodiment, with the fin 22f of the seventh embodiment, or with the rectangular cylindrical or rectangular columnar housing 12G of the eighth embodiment.

[0077] A plurality of fluid sterilization devices 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, 10H, and 10J according to the above-described embodiments may be provided for one flow path pipe 50. For example, the plurality of fluid sterilization devices may be inserted into a plurality of mounting ports 56 provided on a side wall 54 of the flow path pipe 50. The plurality of mounting ports 56 may be arranged, for example, in the axial direction of the flow path pipe 50, and may be provided so that the radial positions of the flow path pipe 50 are common. The plurality of mounting ports 56 may be arranged, for example, in the radial direction of the flow path pipe 50, and may be provided so that the axial positions of the flow path pipe 50 are common. The plurality of mounting ports 56 may be arranged so that at least one of the axial and radial positions of the flow path pipe 50 is different. By using a combination of a plurality of fluid sterilization devices, the amount of ultraviolet light acting on the fluid can be increased, and sterilization performance can be improved.

[0078] The fluid sterilization devices 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, 10H, and 10J according to the above-described embodiments may further include a flow path pipe 50. For example, by incorporating a fluid sterilization device including the flow path pipe 50 in the middle of a pipe, a sterilization function can be provided to the fluid flowing through the pipe by irradiating it with ultraviolet light.

[0079] The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, that various design changes are possible, that various modifications are possible, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0080] Several aspects of the present invention will now be described.

[0081] The first aspect of the present invention is a fluid sterilization device including a housing that is inserted into an attachment port that penetrates a side wall of a flow tube and that defines a light source chamber that extends inside the flow tube in a direction intersecting or perpendicular to the axial direction of the flow tube, and a light source that is disposed in the light source chamber and includes an LED that outputs ultraviolet light, the housing including a light-transmitting member made of a material that transmits the ultraviolet light, and a heat dissipation member made of a material that has a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member. According to the first aspect, since the fluid sterilization device is disposed inside the flow tube, the fluid sterilization device can be installed even when there is not enough space around the flow tube. In addition, the fluid sterilization device can be introduced after the fact by forming an attachment port after the fact in existing equipment such as factory piping. Since the housing that accommodates the light source includes a heat dissipation member, the LED can be efficiently cooled by utilizing the flow of the fluid.

[0082] A second aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to the first aspect, wherein an outer surface of the light-transmitting member has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction. According to the second aspect, a structure that is less likely to obstruct the flow of fluid inside the flow path pipe can be realized.

[0083] In a third aspect of the present invention, the outer surface of the heat dissipation member has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction. The fluid sterilization device according to the first or second aspect of the present invention. According to the third aspect of the present invention, a structure that is less likely to impede the flow of fluid inside the flow path pipe can be realized.

[0084] A fourth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the heat dissipation member has fins protruding in the axial direction. According to the fourth aspect, the heat dissipation member has fins, which makes it possible to more efficiently cool the LEDs.

[0085] A fifth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the housing further comprises an opening connecting an outside of the flow path pipe and the light source chamber. According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to reduce the maintenance work of the light source arranged in the light source chamber through the opening.

[0086] A sixth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, further comprising a fixing member at the mounting port for fixing the housing to the flow path pipe. According to the sixth aspect, by providing the fixing member at the mounting port, it is possible to reduce the effort required for installing the fluid sterilization device.

[0087] A seventh aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a fixing member for fixing the housing to the flow path pipe on the opposite side of the attachment port across the central axis of the flow path pipe. According to the seventh aspect, by fixing the housing on the opposite side of the attachment port, the housing can be firmly fixed against the flow of fluid.

[0088] An eighth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, further comprising a fixing member extending inside the flow path tube in a direction perpendicular to both the axial direction and the extension direction of the light source chamber, and fixing the housing to the flow path tube. According to the eighth aspect, by using a fixing member extending in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the housing, the housing can be firmly fixed against the flow of fluid.

[0089] A ninth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the housing is welded to the side wall of the flow path pipe. By welding the housing, the housing can be fixed firmly. By welding the housing, the side wall of the flow path pipe can be used as a heat dissipation member, and the LED can be cooled more efficiently.

[0090] A tenth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the housing is spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow path pipe on the opposite side of the attachment port across the central axis of the flow path pipe. According to the tenth aspect, a gap is provided between the housing and the inner surface of the flow path pipe, so that a structure that is less likely to impede the flow of fluid inside the flow path pipe can be realized.

[0091] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the housing does not penetrate the side wall of the flow path pipe on the opposite side of the mounting port across the central axis of the flow path pipe. According to the eleventh aspect, since there is no need to provide a through hole at a position opposite the mounting port, the effort of subsequent processing of the flow path pipe can be reduced. In particular, when providing a through hole at a position opposite the mounting port, the positional accuracy of the through hole relative to the mounting port is important, and it is not easy to perform subsequent processing of the flow path pipe while maintaining positional accuracy. According to the eleventh aspect, since such effort is unnecessary, subsequent installation of the fluid sterilization device can be facilitated, and user convenience can be improved.

[0092] A twelfth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the light source comprises a first LED arranged to irradiate ultraviolet light in the axial direction, and a second LED arranged to irradiate ultraviolet light in a radial direction of the flow path tube. According to the twelfth aspect, by combining a second LED that irradiates ultraviolet light in the radial direction, the amount of ultraviolet light acting on the fluid flowing inside the flow path tube can be increased, and sterilization performance can be improved.

[0093] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the fluid sterilization device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, further comprising the flow path pipe. According to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a fluid sterilization device fixed to a flow path pipe. By connecting the flow path pipe to the middle of a pipe, it is possible to provide a sterilization function by irradiating the fluid flowing through the pipe with ultraviolet light.

[0094] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a fluid sterilizing device, comprising the steps of: forming an attachment port penetrating a side wall of a flow tube; inserting a housing that defines a light source chamber in which a light source having an LED that outputs ultraviolet light is disposed, the housing including a light-transmitting member made of a material that transmits the ultraviolet light and a heat dissipating member made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member, into the inside of the flow tube through the attachment port; and fixing the housing to the flow tube. According to the fourteenth aspect, the attachment port can be formed after the fact to introduce the fluid sterilizing device into existing equipment such as piping in a factory. Since the fluid sterilizing device is disposed inside the flow tube, the fluid sterilizing device can be installed even if there is not enough space around the flow tube. Furthermore, since the housing that houses the light source includes a heat dissipating member, the LED can be efficiently cooled by utilizing the flow of the fluid. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 10...fluid sterilization device, 12...housing, 14...light source, 16...light source chamber, 18...ultraviolet light, 20...light-transmitting member, 22...heat dissipation member, 28...opening, 30...LED, 50...flow path tube, 52...interior, 54...side wall, 56...mounting port, 58...inner surface.

Claims

1. a housing that is inserted into a mounting port that penetrates a side wall of the flow path pipe and that defines a light source chamber that extends inside the flow path pipe in a direction that intersects or is perpendicular to an axial direction of the flow path pipe; a light source disposed in the light source chamber and including an LED for outputting ultraviolet light; The housing includes a light-transmitting member made of a material that transmits the ultraviolet light, and a heat dissipation member made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member. Fluid sterilizer.

2. The outer surface of the light-transmitting member has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction.

2. The fluid disinfection device of claim 1.

3. The outer surface of the heat dissipation member has a shape that protrudes in the axial direction.

2. The fluid disinfection device of claim 1.

4. The heat dissipation member has fins protruding in the axial direction.

2. The fluid disinfection device of claim 1.

5. The housing further includes an opening that connects an outside of the flow path pipe and the light source chamber.

2. The fluid disinfection device of claim 1.

6. The mounting port further includes a fixing member for fixing the housing to the flow path pipe. A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. a fixing member for fixing the housing to the flow path pipe on the opposite side of the attachment port with respect to the central axis of the flow path pipe being interposed therebetween, A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. a fixing member extending in a direction perpendicular to both the axial direction and the extension direction of the light source chamber inside the flow path pipe and fixing the housing to the flow path pipe; A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The housing is welded to the side wall of the flow tube. A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. the housing is spaced apart from the inner surface of the flow passage pipe on the opposite side of the attachment port across the central axis of the flow passage pipe; A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. the housing does not penetrate the side wall of the flow passage pipe on the opposite side of the attachment port across the central axis of the flow passage pipe; A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. The light source includes a first LED arranged to irradiate ultraviolet light in the axial direction, and a second LED arranged to irradiate ultraviolet light in a radial direction of the flow path pipe. A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

13. The flow path pipe is further provided. A fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. forming an access port through a side wall of the flow tube; a step of inserting a housing defining a light source chamber in which a light source having an LED that outputs ultraviolet light is disposed, the housing including a light-transmitting member made of a material that transmits the ultraviolet light and a heat dissipating member made of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the light-transmitting member, into the inside of the flow path pipe through the mounting opening; and fixing the housing to the flow path pipe. A method for manufacturing a fluid disinfection device.

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