Fluid sterilization device

Abstract

To provide a fluid sterilization device capable of ensuring desired sterilization performance by ensuring a desired accumulated irradiation quantity.SOLUTION: A fluid sterilization device 1 comprises: a sterilization chamber body 10 having a fluid sterilization chamber 60 whose wall surface is formed in a recessed spherical shape, in which a light source opening 14, a chamber inlet 12 for allowing fluid to flow into the sterilization chamber 60, and a chamber outlet 13 for allowing fluid to flow out from the sterilization chamber 60 are formed to open to the sterilization chamber 60; and a light source part 20 configured to block the light source opening 14 and emit ultraviolet light into the sterilization chamber 60 from the light source opening 14. The chamber inlet 12 is disposed such that an opening of the chamber inlet 12 faces a surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side, in a plane including the light source opening 14. When viewed in a central axis L1 direction of the light source opening 14, at least part of the opening of the chamber inlet 12 is disposed so as not to overlap the light source opening 14.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a fluid sterilization device using a light-emitting element that emits ultraviolet light. This fluid sterilization device includes a substantially concave spherical sterilization chamber (storage section) for storing fluid, a chamber inlet (supply port) for allowing fluid to flow into the sterilization chamber, a chamber outlet (discharge port) for taking out the fluid in the sterilization chamber, and a light source section for irradiating ultraviolet light.

[0003] The sterilization chamber includes a substantially semi-concave spherical first sterilization chamber located on the upstream side in the flow direction of the fluid at the chamber inlet, and a substantially semi-concave spherical second sterilization chamber located on the downstream side. A chamber inlet is formed on the side of the first sterilization chamber, and a chamber outlet is formed on the side of the second sterilization chamber. The light source section is arranged on the side of the second sterilization chamber.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In order to ensure desired sterilization performance in a fluid sterilization device, it is necessary to ensure the integrated irradiation dose of ultraviolet light in the sterilization chamber. The integrated irradiation dose depends on the illuminance of ultraviolet light in the sterilization chamber and the time that the fluid stays in the sterilization chamber. In order to ensure desired sterilization performance, it is required that the ultraviolet light emitted by the light-emitting element is evenly irradiated in the sterilization chamber and that the fluid stays in the sterilization chamber.

[0006] However, in the fluid sterilization device described in Patent Document 1, the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet are located in the vicinity of symmetric positions with respect to the center of the sphere of the sterilization chamber. Therefore, a part of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet may immediately flow out from the chamber outlet, and there is a risk that the residence time cannot be ensured. Moreover, the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet are located on a plane that is parallel to the opening surface of the light source opening and passes through the center of the sphere of the sterilization chamber. From this point as well, there is a risk that the integrated exposure dose will be reduced for some of the fluid.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of such a background, and aims to provide a fluid sterilization device that can ensure desired sterilization performance by ensuring a desired integrated exposure dose.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] One aspect of the present invention includes a sterilization chamber for a fluid in which the wall surface is formed in a concave spherical shape, a sterilization chamber body formed such that a light source opening, a chamber inlet for flowing the fluid into the sterilization chamber, and a chamber outlet for flowing the fluid out of the sterilization chamber open into the sterilization chamber, a light source unit configured to block the light source opening and emit ultraviolet light from the light source opening into the sterilization chamber, and the chamber inlet is arranged such that the opening of the chamber inlet faces the surface on the sterilization chamber side among the planes including the light source opening, In a fluid sterilization device, at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the above aspect, when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening, at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet is arranged so as not to overlap with the light source opening. Therefore, not all of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet will proceed toward the light source opening, and at least a part of the flowing-in fluid will hit the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber. In this way, by having at least a part of the flowing-in fluid hit the concave spherical wall surface, a spiral flow can be generated in the sterilization chamber. And by generating a spiral flow immediately after it flows into the sterilization chamber, the spiral flow can be maintained in all regions of the concave spherical sterilization chamber. As a result, the pressure loss of the fluid in the sterilization chamber can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased. Therefore, a desired integrated irradiation dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0010] As described above, according to the above aspect, it is possible to provide a fluid sterilization device capable of ensuring a desired sterilization performance by ensuring a desired integrated irradiation dose.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0012] The fluid sterilization device has a sterilization chamber for fluid with a wall surface formed in a concave spherical shape, and a sterilization chamber main body formed such that a light source opening, a chamber inlet for flowing the fluid into the sterilization chamber, and a chamber outlet for flowing the fluid out of the sterilization chamber open into the sterilization chamber, and a light source unit configured to close the light source opening and emit ultraviolet light from the light source opening into the sterilization chamber. And the chamber inlet is arranged such that the opening of the chamber inlet faces the surface on the sterilization chamber side among the planes including the light source opening. When viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening, at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening.

[0013] When viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening, all of the opening of the chamber inlet may be arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening. In this case, all of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet will hit the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber. Therefore, a spiral flow can be effectively generated in the sterilization chamber. By generating a stronger spiral flow immediately after flowing into the sterilization chamber, the spiral flow can be maintained in all regions of the concave spherical sterilization chamber. Therefore, a desired integrated irradiation dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0014] Also, when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening, another part of the opening of the chamber inlet may be arranged so as to overlap the light source opening. In this case, a part of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet hits the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber, but the remaining part hits the light source unit arranged at the light source opening. Thus, even if only a part of the flowing-in fluid hits the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber, a spiral flow can be generated. Therefore, a desired integrated irradiation dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0015] Further, the chamber outlet is arranged such that the opening of the chamber outlet faces the surface on the sterilization chamber side among the planes including the light source opening, and at least a part of the opening of the chamber outlet does not overlap with the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening. In this case, at least a part of the fluid flowing toward the chamber outlet flows toward the chamber outlet while hitting the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber. Therefore, the fluid flowing toward the chamber outlet can be in a state of maintaining a spiral flow. As a result, the fluid flowing from the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet can maintain a spiral flow throughout. That is, the pressure loss of the fluid in the sterilization chamber can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased. Therefore, a desired integrated exposure dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0016] Further, when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening, all of the openings of the chamber outlet may be arranged so as not to overlap with the light source opening. In this case, a strong spiral flow can be maintained in the fluid flowing toward the chamber outlet. Therefore, a desired integrated exposure dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0017] Further, when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening, another part of the opening of the chamber outlet may be arranged so as to overlap with the light source opening. Also in this case, a desired integrated exposure dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0018] Further, the inner diameter of the chamber outlet may be formed larger than the inner diameter of the chamber inlet. By reducing the inner diameter of the chamber inlet, the flow velocity flowing into the sterilization chamber can be increased, and a spiral flow can be effectively generated. Furthermore, by increasing the inner diameter of the chamber outlet, the flowing-out fluid can flow out while maintaining a spiral flow. Therefore, the pressure loss near the chamber outlet can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0019] Further, the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet may be configured such that the spiral flow generated by the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet along the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber changes the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow as it progresses from near the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet. As a result, in the sterilization chamber, it is possible to suppress the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet from immediately heading toward the chamber outlet, and effectively generate a spiral flow. As a result, the pressure loss can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0020] Further, the edge line of the light source opening may be formed in a circular shape, and the ratio D / d of the diameter D of the sterilization chamber to the diameter d of the light source opening may be set in the range of 1.8 to 2.2. With this configuration, the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet surely hits the concave spherical wall surface, and a spiral flow can be effectively generated. As a result, the pressure loss can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0021] Further, the sterilization chamber body may be configured such that when the flow rate per unit time of the fluid flowing through the sterilization chamber is 0.5 to 50 L / sec, the residence time of the fluid in the sterilization chamber is 0.02 to 2 sec. Thereby, a desired integrated irradiation dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0022] (Embodiment 1) 1. Basic configuration of the fluid sterilization device 1 The basic configuration of the fluid sterilization device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the fluid sterilization device 1 mainly includes a sterilization chamber body 10 having a sterilization chamber 60, a light source unit 20 that emits ultraviolet light into the sterilization chamber 60, and a housing 30 that houses the sterilization chamber body 10 and the light source unit 20.

[0023] A space is formed between the sterilization chamber body 10 and the housing 30. Since the space is located outside the sterilization chamber body 10, this space will be referred to as the outer region 70. Further, the fluid sterilization device 1 includes a first seal member 40 and a second seal member 50. However, the first seal member 40 and the second seal member 50 will be described later.

[0024] The fluid sterilization device 1 is a device that allows fluid to flow into the sterilization chamber 60 from the outside through the outer region 70 and irradiates the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 with ultraviolet light from the light source unit 20 to sterilize the fluid. The fluid to be sterilized may be a gas or a liquid, and may be a mixture of gas and liquid, a mixture of gas and powdered solid, etc., as long as it has fluidity. In the case of a liquid, for example, it may be water, oil, alcohol, a solution using these as solvents, etc.

[0025] The sterilization chamber main body 10 has the sterilization chamber 60 inside. The sterilization chamber 60 is a space that irradiates the flowing fluid with ultraviolet light emitted from the light source unit 20. The wall surface of the sterilization chamber 60 is formed in a concave spherical shape. By making the sterilization chamber 60 in a concave spherical shape, the ultraviolet light can be efficiently reflected by the concave spherical surface, and the illuminance of the ultraviolet light in the sterilization chamber 60 can be increased, so that the sterilization efficiency of the fluid can be improved.

[0026] The sterilization chamber main body 10 uses a material with a high reflectivity of ultraviolet light. The sterilization chamber main body 10 is, for example, entirely formed of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). By using PTFE, the reflectivity of ultraviolet light can be increased, and the sterilization efficiency can be improved. As long as it is a material having a high reflectivity with respect to the ultraviolet light from the light source unit 20, a material other than PTFE may be used. In particular, the material of the sterilization chamber main body 10 is preferably a material having a reflectivity of 80% or more, preferably 90% or more, more preferably 95% or more with respect to the ultraviolet light from the light source unit 20. Also, the sterilization chamber main body 10 may be formed such that only the surface layer constituting the concave spherical surface is made of a material having a reflectivity of 80% or more with respect to ultraviolet light, for example, PTFE or aluminum.

[0027] In the sterilization chamber main body 10, a light source opening 14 is formed so as to open into the sterilization chamber 60. The light source opening 14 is an opening for allowing the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source unit 20 to enter the sterilization chamber 60.

[0028] The sterilization chamber main body 10 is further formed with a chamber inlet 12 that opens into the sterilization chamber 60. The chamber inlet 12 communicates the sterilization chamber 60 with the outer region 70. The chamber inlet 12 is an inlet for allowing fluid to flow into the sterilization chamber 60 from the outer region 70.

[0029] The sterilization chamber main body 10 is further formed with a chamber outlet 13 that opens into the sterilization chamber 60. The chamber outlet 13 communicates the sterilization chamber 60 with the outside. The chamber outlet 13 is an outlet for allowing fluid to flow out of the sterilization chamber 60 to the outside.

[0030] The light source unit 20 is disposed so as to close the light source opening 14. The light source unit 20 is configured to emit ultraviolet light from the light source opening 14 into the sterilization chamber 60. The portion of the light source unit 20 that is exposed at the light source opening 14, that is, the emission surface 20A of the light source unit 20 that emits ultraviolet light, forms a part of the wall surface of the sterilization chamber 60. Therefore, the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 comes into contact with the emission surface 20A of the light source unit 20. Accordingly, the light source unit 20 is cooled by the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60. As a result, the luminous efficiency of the light source unit 20 can be increased.

[0031] The housing 30 is provided so as to enclose the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the light source unit 20. That is, the housing 30 is disposed so as to cover the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the light source unit 20. Specifically, the inner surface of the housing 30 faces the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10. Also, the inner surface of the housing 30 faces the outer surface of the light source unit 20. That is, the inner surface of the housing 30 faces the outer back surface 20B and the outer peripheral surface 20C that form the outer surface of the light source unit 20.

[0032] Then, an outer region 70 is formed by the gap between the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10, and the gap between the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer surface of the light source unit 20. A part of the outer region 70 is a region that faces the inner surface of the housing 30 and also faces the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10. Another part of the outer region 70 is a region that faces the inner surface of the housing 30 and also faces the outer surface of the light source unit 20.

[0033] The housing 30 is formed with a housing supply port 31A through which fluid is supplied. The housing supply port 31A communicates with the outer region 70. That is, the fluid supplied from the housing supply port 31A passes through the outer region 70 and flows into the sterilization chamber 60 from the chamber inlet 12.

[0034] The housing 30 is further formed with a housing discharge port 32A for discharging fluid. The housing discharge port 32A communicates with the chamber outlet 13 of the sterilization chamber main body 10. Therefore, the fluid sterilized in the sterilization chamber 60 is discharged to the outside from the housing discharge port 32A through the chamber outlet 13.

[0035] 2. Regarding the fluid flow path in the fluid sterilizer 1 The fluid flow path in the fluid sterilizer 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the fluid is supplied from the housing supply port 31A to the outer region 70.

[0036] First, the fluid supplied from the housing supply port 31A flows into the gap between the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer back surface 20B of the light source unit 20 in the outer region 70. At this time, the fluid contacts the outer back surface 20B of the light source unit 20 and cools the light source unit 20. Subsequently, the fluid flows into the gap between the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer peripheral surface 20C of the light source unit 20 in the outer region 70. At this time, the fluid contacts the outer peripheral surface 20C of the light source unit 20 and cools the light source unit 20. Subsequently, the fluid flows into the gap between the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10 in the outer region 70.

[0037] In this way, the fluid supplied from the housing supply port 31A first contacts the outer back surface 20B and the outer peripheral surface 20C, which are the outer surfaces of the light source unit 20. Therefore, the light source unit 20 is efficiently cooled by the fluid supplied from the housing supply port 31A. As a result, the luminous efficiency of the light source unit 20 can be increased.

[0038] Subsequently, the fluid in the outer region 70 flows into the sterilization chamber 60 from the chamber inlet 12 of the sterilization chamber main body 10. The fluid that has flowed into the sterilization chamber 60 proceeds toward the chamber outlet 13 while maintaining a spiral flow. The fluid flows from the chamber outlet 13 to the housing discharge port 32A and is discharged to the outside.

[0039] Here, since the sterilization chamber 60 has a concave spherical wall surface, the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 constitutes a spiral flow. Further, the chamber inlet 12 and the chamber outlet 13 are configured such that the spiral flow generated along the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber 60 by the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet 12 changes the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow as it proceeds from near the chamber inlet 12 to the chamber outlet 13.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow in the sterilization chamber 60 is configured to change from the chamber inlet 12 toward the chamber outlet 13. Due to the positional relationship between the chamber inlet 12 and the chamber outlet 13, the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow of the fluid flowing into the sterilization chamber 60 is configured to change so as to approach the direction of the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13.

[0041] In this embodiment, since the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow generated immediately after flowing in from the chamber inlet 12 has an angle with respect to the direction of the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13, the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow changes. In particular, since the angle formed by the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow and the direction of the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 is a large angle (an angle close to 90°), the angle by which the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow changes becomes large. By being configured in this way, in the sterilization chamber 60, stagnant portions of the fluid can be eliminated and the flow can be made good. In particular, the flow of the fluid in the vicinity of the chamber outlet 13 can be made good.

[0042] In this way, within the sterilization chamber 60, it is possible to suppress the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet 12 from immediately flowing toward the chamber outlet 13, and effectively generate a spiral flow. Since the spiral flow can be maintained throughout the sterilization chamber 60, the flow path of the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 can be lengthened. As a result, a desired integrated exposure dose by the ultraviolet light from the light source unit 20 can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured. Furthermore, the pressure loss can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0043] Also, since the spiral flow can be maintained in the sterilization chamber 60, the pressure loss of the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 can be reduced. From this as well, the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0044] 3. Components of the sterilization chamber main body 10 The components of the sterilization chamber main body 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The sterilization chamber main body 10 includes a plurality of main body components divided into at least two parts. Taking the case where the sterilization chamber main body 10 is composed of two main body components as an example.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, the sterilization chamber main body 10 is divided into two parts: a first main body component 10A and a second main body component 10B.

[0046] The first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B are configured such that the sterilization chamber 60 is divided into two hemispherical shapes. That is, the first main body component 10A constitutes one of the plurality of main body components that make up the sterilization chamber main body 10, and its wall surface is formed in a semi-concave spherical shape. The second main body component 10B constitutes one of the plurality of main body components that make up the sterilization chamber main body 10, and its wall surface is formed in a semi-concave spherical shape. The second main body component 10B is arranged opposite to the first main body component 10A.

[0047] In the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B, ring-shaped boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba appear as the split surfaces respectively. By combining the ring-shaped boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A and the ring-shaped boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component 10B, a sterilization chamber 60 appears inside.

[0048] The diameter of the concave spherical surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10 is D. The diameter of the opening of the sterilization chamber 60 at the split surface between the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B coincides with D. By splitting the sterilization chamber main body 10 in this way, the production of the sterilization chamber main body 10 can be facilitated.

[0049] A light source opening 14 is formed in the first main body component 10A. The plane P including the light source opening 14 is configured to be a plane parallel to the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba. That is, the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 is orthogonal to the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba. Therefore, the light source opening 14 is formed at the position farthest from the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba in the first main body component 10A. The edge line of the light source opening 14 is, for example, a circle. Therefore, the light source opening 14 is located in the same planar shape. The diameter of the edge line of the light source opening 14 is d.

[0050] The ratio D / d of the diameter D of the sterilization chamber 60 to the diameter d of the light source opening 14 is set in the range of, for example, 1.8 to 2.2. In this case, when centered on the center point O1 of the sterilization chamber 60, the opening angle θ1 of the light source opening 14 formed in the first main body component 10A is about 60°. As a similar standard, the sum of the angles θ2 and θ3 of the portion forming the concave spherical shape of the first main body component 10A is the remaining 120° (60° each). With this configuration, the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet 12 surely hits the concave spherical wall surface, and a spiral flow can be effectively generated. As a result, the pressure loss can be reduced and the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0051] The second body component 10B is formed with a chamber inlet 12 and a chamber outlet 13. The central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 is offset from the central point O1 of the sterilization chamber 60. The central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 is formed parallel to the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14. However, if the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 is offset from the central point O1, the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 and the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 may have an intersecting positional relationship or a twisted positional relationship.

[0052] The chamber inlet 12 has, for example, a cylindrical inner peripheral surface. The inner diameter of the chamber inlet 12 is di. Since the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 is offset from the central point O1 of the sterilization chamber 60, the edge line of the opening on the sterilization chamber 60 side in the chamber inlet 12 has a shape approximated to an oval shape.

[0053] The chamber inlet 12 is arranged such that the opening on the sterilization chamber 60 side in the chamber inlet 12 faces the surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side of the plane P including the light source opening 14. In Fig. 3(b), the opening on the sterilization chamber 60 side in the chamber inlet 12 faces downward, and the surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side of the plane including the light source opening 14 faces upward.

[0054] The central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 is offset from the central point O1 of the sterilization chamber 60. The central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 is formed parallel to the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12. Therefore, the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 is also formed parallel to the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14. However, if the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 is offset from the central point O1, the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 and the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 may have an intersecting positional relationship or a twisted positional relationship. Also, the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 and the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 may have an intersecting positional relationship or a twisted positional relationship.

[0055] The chamber outlet 13 has, for example, a cylindrical inner peripheral surface. The inner diameter of the chamber outlet 13 is do. Since the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 is offset from the central point O1 of the sterilization chamber 60, the edge line of the opening on the sterilization chamber 60 side in the chamber outlet 13 has a shape approximated to an oval shape.

[0056] The chamber outlet 13 is arranged such that the opening on the sterilization chamber 60 side in the chamber outlet 13 faces the surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side of the plane P including the light source opening 14. In Fig. 3(b), the opening on the sterilization chamber 60 side in the chamber outlet 13 faces downward, and the surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side of the plane including the light source opening 14 faces upward.

[0057] As described above, the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 is perpendicular to the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba. In this case, the entire surfaces of the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba become the surfaces having the maximum angle with respect to the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14. Therefore, the amount of ultraviolet light entering the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba can be reduced, so that the leakage of ultraviolet light through the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba can be reduced.

[0058] 4. Positional relationship of each of the ports 12, 13, and 14 of the sterilization chamber body 10 The positional relationship of each of the ports 12, 13, and 14 of the sterilization chamber body 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Specifically, the positional relationship of the chamber inlet 12, the chamber outlet 13, and the light source opening 14 will be described.

[0059] As described above, the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12, and the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 are, for example, parallel. And the edge line of the light source opening 14, the cross-sectional shape of the inner peripheral surface of the chamber inlet 12, and the cross-sectional shape of the inner peripheral surface of the chamber outlet 13 are each circular.

[0060] The chamber inlet 12 is arranged such that the opening of the chamber inlet 12 faces the surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side among the planes P including the light source opening 14. When viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet 12 is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. In this embodiment, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, another part of the opening of the chamber inlet 12 is arranged so as to overlap the light source opening 14. That is, the chamber inlet 12 is positioned such that only at least a part of it is outside the light source opening 14 when viewed from the direction shown in FIG. 4.

[0061] As described above, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet 12 is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. The central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 and the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12 are parallel. That is, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12, at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet 12 is also arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14.

[0062] Therefore, all of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet 12 does not all proceed toward the light source opening, and at least a part of the flowing-in fluid hits the concave spherical wall surface of the sterilization chamber 60. Thus, by having at least a part of the flowing-in fluid hit the concave spherical wall surface, a spiral flow can be generated in the sterilization chamber. And by generating a spiral flow immediately after flowing into the sterilization chamber 60, the spiral flow can be maintained in all regions of the concave spherical sterilization chamber 60. Therefore, a desired integrated exposure dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0063] In addition to the above configuration, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, all of the openings of the chamber inlet 12 may be arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. That is, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L2 of the chamber inlet 12, all of the openings of the chamber inlet 12 may be arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. In this case, a spiral flow can be effectively generated in the sterilization chamber 60. By generating a stronger spiral flow immediately after flowing into the sterilization chamber 60, the spiral flow can be maintained in all regions of the concave spherical sterilization chamber 60.

[0064] The chamber outlet 13 is arranged such that the opening of the chamber outlet 13 faces the surface on the sterilization chamber 60 side of the plane P including the light source opening 14. When viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, at least a part of the opening of the chamber outlet 13 is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. In the present embodiment, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, another part of the opening of the chamber outlet 13 is arranged so as to overlap the light source opening 14. That is, also in the chamber outlet 13, when viewed from the direction shown in FIG. 4, its position is set such that only at least a part of it is outside the light source opening 14.

[0065] As described above, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, at least a part of the opening of the chamber outlet 13 is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. The central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 and the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 are parallel. That is, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13, at least a part of the opening of the chamber outlet 13 is also arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14.

[0066] Therefore, at least a part of the fluid flowing toward the chamber outlet 13 flows toward the chamber outlet 13 while hitting the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber 60. The fluid flowing toward the chamber outlet 13 can be maintained in a state of maintaining a spiral flow. As a result, the fluid flowing from the chamber inlet 12 to the chamber outlet 13 can maintain a spiral flow throughout. Since the spiral flow can be maintained in the sterilization chamber 60, the pressure loss of the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased. Therefore, a desired integrated exposure dose can be ensured, and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

[0067] In addition to the above configuration, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14, all of the openings of the chamber outlet 13 may be arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. That is, when viewed from the direction of the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13, all of the openings of the chamber outlet 13 may be arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening 14. In this case, a strong spiral flow can be maintained in the fluid flowing toward the chamber outlet 13.

[0068] Also, the inner diameter of the chamber outlet 13 is formed larger than the inner diameter of the chamber inlet 12. By reducing the inner diameter of the chamber inlet 12, the flow velocity flowing into the sterilization chamber 60 can be increased, and a spiral flow can be effectively generated. Furthermore, by increasing the inner diameter of the chamber outlet 13, the flowing-out fluid can be made to flow out while maintaining a spiral flow. Therefore, the pressure loss in the vicinity of the chamber outlet 13 can be reduced, and the sterilization efficiency can be increased.

[0069] In addition, when viewed from the direction shown in FIG. 4, the ratio of the area outside the light source opening 14 in the areas of the chamber inlet 12 and the chamber outlet 13 is preferably 50% or more, and more preferably larger. This makes it easier to form a spiral flow. Note that this area ratio needs to be set according to the diameter D of the sterilization chamber 60, the inner diameter di of the chamber inlet 12, and the inner diameter do of the chamber outlet 13.

[0070] 5. Configuration of the boundary surfaces 10Aa, 10Ba and the first seal member 40 The boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A, the boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component, and the first seal member 40 will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0071] The boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A is formed in a ring shape. A ring-shaped concave groove 15 is formed in the boundary surface 10Aa. This concave groove 15 is provided to fit the ring-shaped first seal member 40 and fix the position of the first seal member 40 at the boundary surface 10Aa. The cross-sectional shape of the concave groove 15 can be arbitrary as long as it is a shape into which the first seal member 40 can be fitted, such as a rectangle, a V shape, or a circle.

[0072] The first seal member 40 is formed of fluororubber or fluoroelastomer. Both materials are elastic materials that are resistant to deterioration by ultraviolet light and have a high reflectivity of ultraviolet light. The first seal member 40 is exemplified by a ring shape with a circular cross-section, but can have an arbitrary cross-sectional shape.

[0073] The first seal member 40 is fitted into the concave groove 15. By fitting the first seal member 40 into the concave groove 15, the first seal member 40 at the boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A can be fixed and stabilized, and positioned. Also, by fitting the first seal member 40 into the concave groove 15, the exposed area of the first seal member 40 can be reduced so that ultraviolet light is not directly irradiated onto the first seal member 40. Therefore, the lifespan of the first seal member 40 can be improved.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 3(b), in the fluid sterilization device 1, the boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A and the boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component 10B are arranged to face each other. And the sterilization chamber main body 10 is arranged to be pressed by the housing 30 inside the housing 30 in the vertical direction of Fig. 3(b). By this pressing, the first sealing member 40 adheres to the boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A and the boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component 10B over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. In this way, the first sealing member 40 partitions the sterilization chamber 60 and the outer region 70.

[0075] In this state, the boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A and the boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component 10B are in a state of being in close contact or having a slight gap. In this way, the sterilization chamber 60 is constituted by the semi-concave spherical surface of the first main body component 10A and the semi-concave spherical surface of the second main body component 10B, and the sterilization chamber main body 10 is constituted.

[0076] With the above configuration, even if fluid infiltrates from the sterilization chamber 60 into the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba of the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B, the fluid does not flow outside this by the first sealing member 40. That is, the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba of the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B are sealed by the first sealing member 40, and leakage of fluid between the sterilization chamber 60 and the outer region 70 can be prevented.

[0077] Note that depending on the dimensional accuracy and surface roughness of the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba, there may be a case where they are in contact in a part in the circumferential direction and are separated in the remaining parts in the circumferential direction. Even in these cases, the first sealing member 40 adheres to the boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component 10B over the entire circumference. Therefore, the same effect as above is exhibited.

[0078] In addition, since the first seal member 40 is made of fluororubber or fluoroelastomer, even if ultraviolet light from the light source unit 20 enters the interface surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba between the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B, the ultraviolet light can be reflected by the first seal member 40. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the leakage of ultraviolet light from the interface surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba between the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B to the outside of the sterilization chamber main body 10.

[0079] Further, since the first seal member 40 is fitted into the concave groove 15, the ultraviolet light from the light source opening 14 is not directly irradiated. Therefore, the service life of the first seal member 40 can be improved.

[0080] In this embodiment, the sterilization chamber main body 10 is composed of two components, the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B, but it may also be composed of three or more main body components. In that case as well, by arranging the first seal member 40 at the interface with each main body component, it is possible to prevent the leakage of fluid between the sterilization chamber 60 and the outer region 70 and prevent the leakage of ultraviolet light to the outside of the sterilization chamber main body 10.

[0081] In this embodiment, the concave groove 15 is provided in the first main body component 10A, but it may be provided in the second main body component 10B or both.

[0082] 6. Configuration of the light source unit 20 The configuration of the light source unit 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the light source unit 20. The light source unit 20 is arranged so as to close the light source opening 14 of the sterilization chamber main body 10. Also, the ultraviolet light emitting side of the light source unit 20 is arranged to face the sterilization chamber 60 side. The ultraviolet light emitted from the light source unit 20 enters the sterilization chamber 60 through the light source opening 14.

[0083] The light source unit 20 includes a mounting substrate 21, a light emitting element 22, a window member 23, a light source housing 24, and a gasket 25. The shape of the entire light source unit 20 is, for example, disk-shaped. However, the shape of the light source unit 20 can be an arbitrary shape.

[0084] The mounting substrate 21 is a substrate having a mounting surface. A wiring pattern is formed on the mounting substrate 21. A wiring 80 for supplying power is connected to the back surface of the mounting substrate 21.

[0085] The light emitting element 22 is an element that emits ultraviolet light. For example, the light emitting element 22 uses a group III nitride semiconductor, and the emission wavelength is 200 - 280 nm. Since the emission wavelength is in the UVC region, the fluid can be efficiently sterilized. The light emitting element 22 may be directly mounted on the mounting surface of the mounting substrate 21, or a packaged LED package may be mounted on the mounting surface of the mounting substrate 21. The LED package is a unit in which the light emitting element 22 is disposed in a housing and sealed with a glass plate or a lens. Also, various elements (for example, a Zener diode) necessary for driving and protecting the light emitting element 22 are mounted on the mounting surface of the mounting substrate 21.

[0086] The window member 23 is a circular glass plate and is disposed on the gasket 25. The window member 23 is made of quartz. Other materials than quartz may be used as long as they are materials that transmit ultraviolet light. For example, sapphire or the like may be used. Also, the window member 23 is not limited to a plate shape and may be a lens shape, for example, a TIR lens, a fly-eye lens, a Fresnel lens, or the like.

[0087] The light source housing 24 is provided so as to cover other parts so as not to cover at least the vicinity of the center of the window member 23. The light source housing 24 is provided so as to continuously cover, for example, the back surface and the side surface of the mounting substrate 21 and the side surface of the window member 23. The light source housing 24 may be constituted by one member or may be constituted by a plurality of members.

[0088] The light source housing 24 is formed of a material with high heat dissipation. For example, the light source housing 24 is formed of a metal such as SUS or Al, or a resin material with high heat dissipation. Since the light source housing 24 of the light source unit 20 comes into contact with the fluid, the light source unit 20 can be efficiently cooled.

[0089] The gasket 25 is formed in a ring shape and is arranged on the mounting substrate 21 along the vicinity of the end portion. The light emitting element 22 and various elements are located inside the gasket 25. The height of the gasket 25 is set higher than that of the light emitting element 22 and various elements. The gasket 25 is made of an elastic material resistant to ultraviolet light. It may be made of the same material as the first sealing member 40.

[0090] The gasket 25 is elastically deformed and is in close contact with the mounting substrate 21, the window member 23, and the light source housing 24. Thereby, the internal space surrounded by the light source housing 24, the window member 23, and the gasket 25 is sealed so that the fluid does not leak into the internal space. Therefore, the fluid can be prevented from entering the region where the light emitting element 22 and various elements are arranged. Note that the gasket 25 may be in close contact with only the mounting substrate 21 and the window member 23, or may be in close contact with only the window member 23 and the light source housing 24.

[0091] Here, the outer surface of the light source unit 20 has an emission surface 20A that emits ultraviolet light, an outer back surface 20B located on the back surface of the emission surface, and an outer peripheral surface 20C. The emission surface 20A is located corresponding to the light source opening 14 and is constituted by a portion of the window member 23 that is not covered by the light source housing 24. That is, the emission surface 20A is constituted by the surface of the window member 23. The outer back surface 20B is constituted by a portion on the back surface side of the light source housing 24. The outer peripheral surface 20C is constituted by a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the light source housing 24.

[0092] 7. Configuration of the housing 30 and the second sealing member 50 The configuration of the housing 30 and the second seal member 50 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 6, and 7. As described above, the housing 30 is provided so as to enclose the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the light source unit 20. The housing 30 includes a first housing member 31 and a second housing member 32. The division position between the first housing member 31 and the second housing member 32 can be arbitrarily set. Also, the housing 30 may be configured by one member, or may be configured by three or more members. Note that the joint portion between the first housing member 31 and the second housing member 32 has a seal structure (not shown).

[0093] The first housing member 31 is configured to cover a part of the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the outer surface of the light source unit 20. Therefore, a part of the outer region 70 is formed between the inner surface of the first housing member 31 and the outer surfaces of the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the light source unit 20.

[0094] A housing supply port 31A is formed in the first housing member 31. The housing supply port 31A is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, a cylindrical shape or a polygonal cylindrical shape. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the housing supply port 31A is arranged so as to face the outer back surface 20B of the light source unit 20. When viewed from the central axis direction of the housing supply port 31A, at least a part of the opening of the housing supply port 31A is set to face the outer back surface of the light source unit 20. Thereby, the fluid flowing into the outer region 70 from the housing supply port 31A can directly hit the light source unit 20, and the cooling efficiency of the light source unit 20 can be improved.

[0095] In particular, when viewed from the central axis direction of the housing supply port 31A, it is preferable that the entire opening of the housing supply port 31A is set to face the outer back surface 20B of the light source unit 20. The cooling efficiency of the light source unit 20 can be further improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the first housing member 31 is provided with an opening 31B for passing a wiring 80 that connects the light source unit 20 and the outside. The opening 31B is, for example, cylindrical, and one end of the cylinder is in contact with the outer back surface 20B of the light source unit 20. By passing the wiring 80 through the inside of the cylinder of the opening 31B, the connection portion between the light source unit 20 and the wiring 80 and the wiring 80 are prevented from coming into contact with the fluid.

[0097] The second housing member 32 is configured to cover the remaining portion of the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10. A part of the outer region 70 is formed between the inner surface of the second housing member 32 and the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10.

[0098] The second housing member 32 is formed with a housing discharge port 32A. The housing discharge port 32A is connected to the chamber outlet 13 of the sterilization chamber main body 10. The connection structure between the chamber outlet 13 of the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the housing discharge port 32A of the housing 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 7, the housing discharge port 32A has a cylindrical portion 32Aa that protrudes toward the chamber outlet 13, and is connected to the chamber outlet 13 by fitting the cylindrical portion 32Aa into the chamber outlet 13. Also, in the chamber outlet 13, the region on the housing discharge port 32A side has a larger inner diameter than the other regions, and the inner diameter approximately matches the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 32Aa.

[0100] Due to this difference in inner diameter, a stepped portion 13A is formed in the chamber outlet 13. A ring-shaped second seal member 50 is disposed on the stepped portion 13A. The second seal member 50 is formed of the same material as the first seal member 40. That is, the second seal member 50 is formed of fluororubber or fluoroelastomer.

[0101] The second seal member 50 is formed in a ring shape. The second seal member 50 is disposed between the boundary surfaces of the chamber outlet 13 and the housing outlet 32A. The second seal member 50 is elastically deformed by the pressing force from the housing 30, and is in close contact with both the stepped portion 13A of the chamber outlet 13 and the tip of the cylindrical portion 32Aa of the housing outlet 32A. With such a structure, the second seal member 50 seals the boundary surface between the chamber outlet 13 and the housing outlet 32A. Therefore, the second seal member 50 prevents the leakage of fluid between the chamber outlet 13 and the outer region 70 through the boundary surface between the chamber outlet 13 and the housing outlet 32A.

[0102] 8. Water flow simulation The sterilization chamber 60 in this embodiment was modeled and water flow simulation was performed. As shown in FIG. 8, the water flow simulation results show that a spiral flow is formed in the sterilization chamber 60.

[0103] Also, when the flow rate of water flowing through the sterilization chamber 60 per unit time is 8 L / sec, the time from when the water flows in from the chamber inlet 12 until it flows out from the chamber outlet 13, that is, the residence time in the sterilization chamber 60, was 0.14 sec. The sterilization performance of the outflowing water was very high, and it was confirmed that the sterilization or inactivation of the target bacteria and viruses was 90% or more.

[0104] From the above, the sterilization chamber main body 10 is preferably configured such that when the flow rate of the fluid flowing through the sterilization chamber 60 per unit time is 0.5 to 50 L / sec, the residence time of the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 is 0.02 to 2 sec. Thereby, a desired integrated exposure dose can be ensured and a desired sterilization performance can be ensured.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0105] 1: Fluid sterilization device 10: Sterilization chamber main body 10A: First main body component 10B: Second main body component 10Aa, 10Ba: Boundary surface 12: Chamber inlet 13: Chamber flow outlet 14: Opening for light source 15: Concave groove 20: Light source unit 30: Housing 31A: Housing supply port 32A: Housing discharge port 40: First sealing member 50: Second sealing member 60: Sterilization chamber 70: Outer region 80: Wiring

Claims

1. A fluid sterilization chamber having a wall surface formed in a concave spherical shape, a sterilization chamber body formed such that a light source opening, a chamber inlet for flowing the fluid into the sterilization chamber, and a chamber outlet for flowing the fluid out of the sterilization chamber open into the sterilization chamber, a light source unit configured to block the light source opening and emit ultraviolet light from the light source opening into the sterilization chamber, and the chamber inlet is arranged such that an opening of the chamber inlet faces a surface on the sterilization chamber side among planes including the light source opening, A fluid sterilization device, wherein at least a part of the opening of the chamber inlet is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

2. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 1, wherein all of the openings of the chamber inlet are arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

3. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 1, wherein another part of the opening of the chamber inlet is arranged so as to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

4. The chamber outlet is arranged such that an opening of the chamber outlet faces a surface on the sterilization chamber side among planes including the light source opening, The fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least a part of the opening of the chamber outlet is arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

5. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 4, wherein all of the openings of the chamber outlet are arranged so as not to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

6. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 4, wherein another part of the opening of the chamber outlet is arranged so as to overlap the light source opening when viewed from the central axis direction of the light source opening.

7. The fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein an inner diameter of the chamber outlet is formed larger than an inner diameter of the chamber inlet.

8. The chamber inlet and the chamber outlet are configured such that a spiral flow generated along the concave spherical wall surface in the sterilization chamber of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet changes the direction of the central axis of the spiral flow as it proceeds from near the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet. The fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The edge line of the opening for the light source is formed in a circular shape, The ratio D / d of the diameter D of the sterilization chamber to the diameter d of the opening for the light source is set in the range of 1.8 to 2.

2. The fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The sterilization chamber body is configured such that when the flow rate per unit time of the fluid flowing through the sterilization chamber is 0.5 to 50 L / sec, the residence time of the fluid in the sterilization chamber is 0.02 to 2 sec. The fluid sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images