Fluid sterilizer

Abstract

To provide a fluid sterilizer with improved sterilization performance.SOLUTION: A fluid sterilizer includes a sterilization chamber 60 with a wall surface in a sunken spherical shape. The fluid sterilizer includes: a sterilization chamber main body 10 with a light source opening 14, a chamber inflow port 12 for flowing a fluid into the sterilization chamber 60 and a chamber outflow port 13 for flowing the fluid out of the sterilization chamber 60 formed opening to the sterilization chamber; and a light source part 20 blocking the light source opening 14 and configured to emit ultraviolet light to the sterilization chamber from the light source opening 14. The fluid sterilizer further includes an enclosure 30 arranged to cover an outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10, and forming an outside region facing the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body 10 and an outer surface of the light source part 20, the outside region configured so that the fluid fed from an enclosure feed port flows into the chamber inflow port 12. The light source part 20 includes a light emitter 22 emitting ultraviolet light. The light emitter 22 is configured so that luminous efficiency is 2.4% or more at a current value 300 mA to 400 mA.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is known a sterilization device that sterilizes and inactivates bacteria and viruses in running water by irradiating ultraviolet light. A mercury lamp is widely used as a light source. Since the mercury lamp uses mercury, it has a problem of strong toxicity and a large environmental load. In addition, there is also a problem that the sterilization device becomes large when a mercury lamp is used. Therefore, the replacement from a mercury lamp to an ultraviolet LED is being promoted.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a sterilization device that can sterilize by irradiating ultraviolet light to a fluid. Further, the sterilization device has a sterilization chamber main body that has a sterilization chamber for flowing a fluid and irradiating ultraviolet light, and has a housing arranged so as to cover the outer surface of the sterilization chamber main body. A gap (outer region) is provided between the sterilization chamber main body and the housing, and the fluid that has flowed into the housing is configured to flow into the sterilization chamber main body through the outer region.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the fluid sterilization device of Patent Document 1, there is room for improving the sterilization performance by improving the performance of the light emitting element.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of such a background, and an object thereof is to provide a fluid sterilization device with improved sterilization performance.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a sterilization chamber body having a fluid sterilization chamber with a wall surface formed in a concave spherical shape, 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, the sterilization chamber body being formed such that the light source opening, the chamber inlet, and the chamber outlet 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; a housing disposed so as to cover the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body, having a housing supply port through which the fluid is supplied, and forming an outer region facing the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body and the outer surface of the light source unit, the outer region being configured such that the fluid supplied from the housing supply port flows to the chamber inlet; the light source unit includes a light emitting element that emits ultraviolet light; in the fluid sterilization device, the light emitting element is configured to have a luminous efficiency of 2.4% or more at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA.

Effect of the Invention

[0008] In the above aspect, the light emitting element is configured to have a luminous efficiency of 2.4% or more at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA. Therefore, with appropriate input power, sufficient luminous intensity can be obtained while suppressing heat generation of the light emitting element. As a result, the sterilization performance of the fluid sterilization device can be improved.

[0009] As described above, according to the above aspect, a fluid sterilization device with improved sterilization performance can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The fluid sterilization apparatus includes a sterilization chamber for 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 to the sterilization chamber, 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 a housing disposed so as to cover the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body, having a housing supply port through which the fluid is supplied, and forming an outer region facing the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body and the outer surface of the light source unit, the outer region being configured such that the fluid supplied from the housing supply port flows to the chamber inlet. The light source unit includes a light-emitting element that emits ultraviolet light. The light-emitting element is configured to have a luminous efficiency of 2.4% or more at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA.

[0012] In the fluid sterilization apparatus, the light-emitting element may be configured to have a luminous efficiency of 2.5% or more at a current value of 350 mA. This can further improve the sterilization performance.

[0013] In the fluid sterilization device, the light-emitting element may be configured such that the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the full width at half maximum is 2 nm or less at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA. The stability of the sterilization performance can be improved.

[0014] In the fluid sterilization device, the light-emitting element is configured such that the luminous efficiency at any one of the current values of 10 mA to 50 mA is the maximum value among the luminous efficiencies at the applied current values, and the luminous efficiency in the entire range of the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA is 75% or more with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA. The stability of the sterilization performance can be improved.

[0015] In the fluid sterilization device, the light-emitting element may be configured such that the luminous efficiency in the entire range of the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at the applied current value is included in the range of 65 to 85%. More stable sterilization performance can be obtained.

[0016] In the fluid sterilization device, the light source unit is located corresponding to the light source opening, and includes an emission surface that emits ultraviolet light, and an outer surface part of the light source unit, and an outer back surface that is the back surface of the emission surface and with which the fluid flowing through the outer region comes into contact. The housing supply port may be arranged such that the opening of the housing supply port faces the outer back surface of the light source unit. The light source unit can be efficiently cooled, and the sterilization performance can be improved.

[0017] (Embodiment 1) 1. Basic Configuration of 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 encloses the sterilization chamber body 10 and the light source unit 20.

[0018] A space is formed between the sterilization chamber main body 10 and the housing 30. Since this space is located outside the sterilization chamber main body 10, this space will be referred to as the outer region 70. Furthermore, the fluid sterilization device 1 has 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.

[0019] 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, water, oil, alcohol, a solution using these as solvents, etc.

[0020] The sterilization chamber main body 10 has the sterilization chamber 60 inside. The sterilization chamber 60 is a space for irradiating 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, the illuminance of the ultraviolet light in the sterilization chamber 60 can be increased, and thus the sterilization efficiency of the fluid can be improved.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] In the sterilization chamber main body 10, a chamber inlet 12 is further formed so as to open 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 from the outer region 70 into the sterilization chamber 60.

[0024] In the sterilization chamber main body 10, a chamber outlet 13 is further formed so as to open 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 from the sterilization chamber 60 to the outside.

[0025] The light source unit 20 is arranged 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, constitutes 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.

[0026] 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 arranged 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 constitute the outer surface of the light source unit 20.

[0027] 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 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 faces the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body 10. Another part of the outer region 70 faces the inner surface of the housing 30 and the outer surface of the light source unit 20.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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 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.

[0030] 2. Regarding the fluid flow path in the fluid sterilization device 1 The fluid flow path in the fluid sterilization device 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.

[0031] 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 body 10 in the outer region 70.

[0032] 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 enhanced.

[0033] Subsequently, the fluid in the outer region 70 flows from the chamber inlet 12 of the sterilization chamber main body 10 into the sterilization chamber 60. 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.

[0034] Here, since the sterilization chamber 60 has a concave spherical wall surface, the fluid in the sterilization chamber 60 forms a spiral flow. Further, the chamber inlet 12 and the chamber outlet 13 are configured such that the direction of the central axis of 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 as it proceeds from near the chamber inlet 12 to the chamber outlet 13.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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, the stagnant portion 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.

[0037] 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 it is possible to 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] In the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B, ring-shaped boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba appear as dividing surfaces, respectively. By aligning the ring-shaped boundary surface 10Aa of the first main body component 10A with the ring-shaped boundary surface 10Ba of the second main body component 10B, a sterilization chamber 60 appears inside.

[0043] 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 dividing surface between the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B coincides with D. By dividing the sterilization chamber main body 10 in this way into two parts, the production of the sterilization chamber main body 10 can be facilitated.

[0044] 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 parallel to the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba. That is, the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 is perpendicular 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 plane. The diameter of the edge line of the light source opening 14 is d.

[0045] 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, for example, in the range of 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 surface 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.

[0046] 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 also have an intersecting positional relationship or a torsional positional relationship.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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 among the planes 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 among the planes including the light source opening 14 faces upward.

[0049] 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 also have an intersecting positional relationship or a torsional positional relationship. Also, the central axis L3 of the chamber outlet 13 and the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 may also have an intersecting positional relationship or a torsional positional relationship.

[0050] 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 center 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.

[0051] 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 among the planes 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 among the planes including the light source opening 14 faces upward.

[0052] As described above, the central axis L1 of the light source opening 14 is orthogonal 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.

[0053] 4. Positional relationship of each of the ports 12, 13, and 14 of the sterilization chamber main body 10 The positional relationship of each of the ports 12, 13, and 14 of the sterilization chamber main 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The chamber inlet 12 is arranged such that the opening of the chamber inlet 12 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 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 when viewed from the direction shown in FIG. 4, only at least a part of it is outside the light source opening 14.

[0056] 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.

[0057] Therefore, all of the fluid flowing in from the chamber inlet 12 does not all flow 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. 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 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.

[0058] 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 with 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 with 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.

[0059] 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 with 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 outlet 13 is arranged so as to overlap with the light source opening 14. That is, also for 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.

[0060] 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 with 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 with the light source opening 14.

[0061] 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 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 a 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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 fluid flowing out 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.

[0064] Incidentally, when viewed from the direction shown in FIG. 4, the ratio of the area outside the light source opening 14 in the area of the chamber inlet 12 and the chamber outlet 13 is preferably 50% or more, and more preferably the larger the ratio. 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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 on the boundary surface 10Aa. The cross-sectional shape of the concave groove 15 can be arbitrary as long as it can fit the first seal member 40, such as a rectangle, a V shape, or a circle.

[0067] 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 reflectance of ultraviolet light. Taking the first seal member 40 as an example of a ring shape with a circular cross-section, the cross-sectional shape can be arbitrary.

[0068] 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 on 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.

[0069] 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 seal 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 seal member 40 partitions the sterilization chamber 60 and the outer region 70.

[0070] 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.

[0071] With the above configuration, even if fluid enters the boundary surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba of the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B from the sterilization chamber 60, the fluid does not flow outside this by the first seal 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 seal member 40, and leakage of fluid between the sterilization chamber 60 and the outer region 70 can be prevented.

[0072] 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 separated in the remaining part in the circumferential direction. Even in these cases, the first seal 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.

[0073] Further, 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 ultraviolet light from leaking outside the sterilization chamber main body 10 from the interface surfaces 10Aa and 10Ba between the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B.

[0074] Further, since the first seal member 40 is fitted in 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.

[0075] In this embodiment, the sterilization chamber main body 10 is composed of two members, the first main body component 10A and the second main body component 10B, but it may be composed of three or more main body components. Also in that case, by arranging the first seal member 40 at the interface with each main body component, it is possible to prevent fluid leakage between the sterilization chamber 60 and the outer region 70 and to prevent ultraviolet light from leaking outside the sterilization chamber main body 10.

[0076] Also, 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 may be provided in both.

[0077] 6. Configuration of 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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 to 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. In addition, 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.

[0081] 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. Further, 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 is in contact with the fluid, the light source unit 20 can be efficiently cooled.

[0084] The gasket 25 is formed in a ring shape and is disposed 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.

[0085] 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, it is possible to prevent the fluid from entering the region where the light emitting element 22 and various elements are disposed. 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 7. Configuration of the housing 30 and the second sealing member 50 The configuration of the housing 30 and the second sealing 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 constituted by one member, or may be constituted by three or more members. Note that the joint portion between the first housing member 31 and the second housing member 32 has a sealing structure (not shown).

[0088] 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. Accordingly, 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] Furthermore, the first housing member 31 is provided with an opening 31B through which a wiring 80 connecting the light source unit 20 and the outside passes. 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. Then, 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 7, the housing discharge port 32A has a cylindrical portion 32Aa protruding toward the chamber outlet 13, and is connected to the chamber outlet 13 by fitting the cylindrical portion 32Aa into the chamber outlet 13. Further, 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] The second seal member 50 is formed in a ring shape. The second seal member 50 is disposed between the interface 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 interface 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 interface between the chamber outlet 13 and the housing outlet 32A.

[0097] 8. Water flow simulation The sterilization chamber 60 in this embodiment was modeled and a water flow simulation was performed. As shown in FIG. 8, it can be seen from the water flow simulation results that a spiral flow is formed in the sterilization chamber 60.

[0098] 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 outflowed water was very high, and it was confirmed that the sterilization or inactivation of the target bacteria and viruses was 90% or more.

[0099] From the above, it is preferable that the sterilization chamber main body 10 is 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.

[0100] 9. Details of the characteristics of the light emitting element 22 Details of various characteristics of the light emitting element 22 of the light source unit 20 are listed below.

[0101] 9-1. Luminous efficiency at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA The light-emitting element 22 is configured such that the luminous efficacy (the ratio of the total luminous flux to the input power) at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA is 2.4% or more. That is, the luminous efficacy, which is a function of the current value, has a minimum value of 2.4% or more at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA. By configuring it in this way, it is possible to obtain a sufficient luminous intensity while suppressing the heat generation of the light-emitting element 22 with an appropriate input power. As a result, the sterilization performance of the fluid sterilization device can be improved. More preferably, the luminous efficacy at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA is 2.42% or more, and even more preferably 2.45% or more.

[0102] Also, it is preferably configured such that the luminous efficacy at a current value of 350 mA is 2.5% or more. More preferably 2.55% or more, and even more preferably 2.6% or more.

[0103] The maximum value of the luminous efficacy at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA is not particularly specified, but it is preferable that the variation in the luminous efficacy is small. For example, the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the luminous efficacy at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA is preferably 0.3% or less.

[0104] The forward voltage of the light-emitting element 22 at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA is, for example, 4 to 6 V. Also, the total luminous flux of the light-emitting element 22 at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA is, for example, 10 to 70 mW.

[0105] 9-2. Half-value width of the emission spectrum The light-emitting element 22 is configured such that the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the half-value width of the emission spectrum is 2 nm or less at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA. By configuring it in this way, the variation in the half-value width due to the current value becomes small. Therefore, the difference in the sterilization performance of the fluid sterilization device due to the variation in the current value becomes small, and stable sterilization performance can be obtained. More preferably, the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the half-value width is 1 nm or less at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA, and even more preferably 0.5 nm or less.

[0106] Although the lower limit of the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the full width at half maximum (FWHM) is not particularly defined at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA, the smaller the difference, the better. From the viewpoints of feasibility and manufacturing cost, etc., the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the FWHM is preferably 0.01 nm or more at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA.

[0107] The maximum value of the FWHM is, for example, 10 to 15 nm at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA.

[0108] 9-3. Luminous efficiency at current values of 10 mA to 50 mA and 200 mA to 500 mA The light-emitting element 22 is configured such that the luminous efficiency at any one of the current values of 10 mA to 50 mA is the maximum value among the luminous efficiencies at the applicable current values, and the luminous efficiency in the entire range of the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA is 75% or more with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA. Here, the applicable current value is the range from 0 mA to the maximum value of the current value actually assumed to be used. By configuring in this way, the decrease in luminous efficiency due to the increase in the current value becomes small. Therefore, the difference in the sterilization performance of the fluid sterilization device due to the fluctuation of the current value becomes small, and stable sterilization performance can be obtained. More preferably, it is 78% or more, and even more preferably 80% or more with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA.

[0109] Furthermore, the light-emitting element 22 is preferably configured such that the luminous efficiency in the entire range of the current value of 200 mA to 500 mA with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at the applicable current value is included in the range of 65 to 85%. More stable sterilization performance can be obtained. More preferably, it is 67 to 83%, and even more preferably 70 to 80%.

[0110] Also, the light-emitting element 22 preferably has a shift amount of the peak wavelength of 1 nm or less at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA. The shift amount of the peak wavelength due to the current value becomes small, and the fluctuation of the sterilization performance due to the fluctuation of the current value also becomes small. Therefore, stable sterilization performance can be obtained.

[0111] 9-4. Examples of Specific Numerical Values of Various Characteristics of Light-Emitting Element 22 An example of specific numerical values of various characteristics of light-emitting element 22 is shown in Table 1 below. In Table 1, the values of forward voltage VF (V), total luminous flux (mW), luminous efficiency (%), peak wavelength (nm), and full width at half maximum of the emission spectrum (nm) at each current value IF (mA) of light-emitting element 22 are summarized.

[0112]

Table 1

[0113] 9-5. Examples of Other Element Configurations and Characteristics In addition, an example of the configuration and characteristics of a preferable light-emitting element 22 is listed.

[0114] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the orientation characteristics of light-emitting element 22. The direction perpendicular to the main surface of light-emitting element 22 is defined as 0 degrees. As shown in FIG. 9, there are peaks in the radiation intensity in the + angle and - angle directions with respect to 0 degrees, and in two diagonal directions. The 0-degree direction is not the peak of the radiation intensity. The peaks are, for example, in the -50 to -15 degree direction and the +15 to +50 degree directions. Note that the radiation intensity does not necessarily have to be symmetric about 0 degrees.

[0115] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the emission spectrum of light-emitting element 22. As shown in FIG. 10, it has a peak near 280 nm, and on the longer wavelength side of the peak, the spectrum spreads wider than on the shorter wavelength side. That is, the full width at half maximum on the longer wavelength side of the peak is larger than the full width at half maximum on the shorter wavelength side.

[0116] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the pattern of the pad electrodes in light-emitting element 22. As shown in FIG. 11, the p-side pad electrode 100 has four right-angled triangular regions 100A to 100D, two rectangular regions 100E and 100F, and a central portion 100G.

[0117] Regions 100A to 100D are in a shape where the corners other than the right angle of a right triangle are cut off by straight lines parallel to the sides forming the right angle. Regions 100A to 100D are arranged symmetrically left - right and up - down with the right - angled corners facing the central part 10G side, and the right - angled corners of regions 100A to 100D are connected to the central part 100G of the p - side pad portion. A recess 102 that is recessed on the right - angled corner side is provided on the hypotenuse of the right triangle.

[0118] Region 100E is located between region 100A and region 100B, and one end is connected to the central part 100G. The two corners at the other end of region 100E are rounded. Region 100F is located between region 100C and region 100D, one end is connected to the central part 100G, and it extends to the side opposite to region 100E. The two corners at the other end of region 100F are rounded.

[0119] The n - side pad electrode 101 is provided on almost the entire surface excluding the p - side pad electrode 100 from the rectangular element region.

[0120] The light - emitting layer of the light - emitting element 22 may have an MQW structure with 2 well layers. This makes it easy to satisfy the above - mentioned numerical ranges such as luminous efficiency and full - width at half - maximum.

Explanation of Reference Signs

[0121] 10: Sterilization chamber main body 10A: First main body component 10B: Second main body component 10Aa, 10Ba: Interface 12: Chamber inlet 13: Chamber outlet 14: Light source opening 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 sterilization chamber body having a fluid sterilization chamber with a concave spherical wall surface, and 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; A housing disposed to cover the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body, having a housing supply port through which the fluid is supplied, and forming an outer region facing the outer surface of the sterilization chamber body and the outer surface of the light source unit, the outer region being configured such that the fluid supplied from the housing supply port flows to the chamber inlet; The light source unit includes a light emitting element that emits ultraviolet light; The light emitting element is configured to have a luminous efficiency of 2.4% or more at a current value of 300 mA to 400 mA. A fluid sterilization device.

2. The light emitting element is configured to have a luminous efficiency of 2.5% or more at a current value of 350 mA. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 1.

3. The light emitting element is configured such that the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the half-value width is 2 nm or less at a current value of 200 mA to 500 mA. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The light emitting element is configured such that the luminous efficiency at any one of current values of 10 mA to 50 mA is the maximum value among the luminous efficiencies at the applied current values, and configured such that the luminous efficiency in the entire range of current values of 200 mA to 500 mA is 75% or more with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at current values of 200 mA to 500 mA. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The light emitting element is configured such that the luminous efficiency in the entire range of current values of 200 mA to 500 mA with respect to the maximum value of the luminous efficiency at the applied current value is included in the range of 65 to 85%. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 4.

6. The light source unit is positioned corresponding to the light source opening, and has an emission surface that emits ultraviolet light, and includes an outer back surface that forms a part of the outer surface of the light source unit, is the back surface of the emission surface, and with which the fluid flowing through the outer region comes into contact; The housing supply port is disposed such that the opening of the housing supply port faces the outer back surface of the light source unit. The fluid sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2.

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