Electrolytic water supply apparatus

Abstract

To provide a technique for downsizing an electrolytic water supply apparatus.SOLUTION: A water storage part 114 stores water supplied from a water supply channel 110 when a first opening / closing part 112 is open. A chloride ion feed part 116 is capable of supplying a chloride ion to the water storage part 114. An electrolytic part 118 electrolyzes water having the chloride ion at the water storage part 114 to generate electrolytic water. A control part 130 measures a time from a water level sensor 126 detects a first water level until detecting a second water level at a state where a second opening / closing part 20 is closed and the first opening / closing part 112 is open. The control part 130 adjusts a water supply amount to be supplied from an intake channel 122 by a water intake part 120 at a state where the first opening / closing part 112 is closed and the second opening / closing part 20 is open, according to the time measured.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electrolyzed water supply device. [Background technology]

[0002] The electrolyzed water supplying device includes an electrolyzed water generating device, mixes the electrolyzed water generated by the electrolyzed water generating device with dilution water such as tap water, and discharges diluted electrolyzed water. Such an electrolyzed water supplying device includes a flow sensor and a flow control valve, and adjusts the amount of dilution water to maintain the discharged diluted electrolyzed water at a desired concentration (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-198573 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When electrolyzed water dispensers are used to keep areas around water hygienic, such as kitchens, they are required to be compact so that they can be installed above a sink or in a cabinet. However, if a flow rate sensor and a flow rate adjustment valve are used in an electrolyzed water dispenser, the number of parts increases, resulting in a larger device.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a technology for miniaturizing an electrolyzed water supply device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, an electrolyzed water supply device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a water supply conduit that branches off at a branching position from a main water conduit that supplies tap water, a first opening / closing unit that opens and closes the water supply conduit, a water storage unit that stores water supplied from the water supply conduit when the first opening / closing unit is open, a chloride ion supply unit that can supply chloride ions to the water storage unit, an electrolysis unit that electrolyzes water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit to produce electrolyzed water, a water intake unit that can take in electrolyzed water from the water storage unit, a water intake conduit that extends from the water intake unit and joins the main water conduit at a joining position and delivers the electrolyzed water taken in by the water intake unit to the main water conduit, a water level sensor that can detect a first water level in the water storage unit and a second water level that is higher than the first water level, and a control unit that controls the second opening / closing unit, the first opening / closing unit, and the water intake unit, which are arranged in the main water conduit between the branching position and the joining position. The control unit measures the time from when the water level sensor detects the first water level to when it detects the second water level when the second opening / closing unit is closed and the first opening / closing unit is open, and the control unit adjusts the amount of water that the water intake unit should convey from the water intake channel based on the measured time when the first opening / closing unit is closed and the second opening / closing unit is open.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an electrolyzed water supply device, which includes a water supply conduit branching at a branching position from a main water conduit supplying tap water, a first opening / closing unit for opening and closing the water supply conduit, a water storage unit for storing water supplied from the water supply conduit when the first opening / closing unit is open, a chloride ion supply unit capable of supplying chloride ions to the water storage unit, an electrolysis unit for producing electrolyzed water by electrolyzing water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit, a water intake unit capable of taking in the electrolyzed water from the water storage unit, a water intake conduit extending from the water intake unit to join the main water conduit at a joining position and supplying the electrolyzed water taken in by the water intake unit to the main water conduit, a water level sensor capable of detecting a first water level in the water storage unit and a second water level higher than the first water level, and a control unit for controlling the second opening / closing unit, the first opening / closing unit, the water intake unit, and the electrolysis unit, which are provided in the main water conduit between the branching position and the joining position. The control unit measures the time from when the water level sensor detects the first water level to when it detects the second water level while the second opening / closing unit is closed and the first opening / closing unit is open, and the control unit causes water to be supplied from the water intake channel to the water intake unit while the first opening / closing unit is closed and the second opening / closing unit is open, and adjusts the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit based on the measured time.

[0008] Any combination of the above components, and conversion of the present disclosure into a method, device, system, recording medium, computer program, etc., are also valid aspects of the present disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, the electrolyzed water supply device can be made smaller. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1(a) to 1(e) are diagrams showing an outline of the operation of the electrolyzed water supply device according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] 1(a)-(e) are diagrams showing the data structures of tables held in the control unit of FIG. [Figure 3] 1(a)-(e) is a flowchart showing a water supply procedure of the electrolyzed water supply device of FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram showing the data structure of a table held in a control unit according to Modification 1. FIG. [Figure 5] 5(a) to 5(f) are diagrams showing an outline of the operation of the electrolyzed water supply device according to the second modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Before describing specific examples of the present disclosure, an overview of the examples will be provided. This example relates to an electrolyzed water supplying device that generates electrolyzed water and mixes electrolyzed water with tap water to discharge diluted electrolyzed water. The electrolyzed water supplying device according to this example is equipped with a water level sensor, and estimates the flow rate of tap water by measuring the time it takes for the water level to change when tap water is supplied. The electrolyzed water supplying device also adjusts the amount of electrolyzed water supplied based on the estimated flow rate. As a result, without using a flow rate sensor or flow rate adjustment valve, variation in the discharged diluted electrolyzed water is reduced, and the device can be made smaller while maintaining its concentration.

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figures 1(a)-(e) show an overview of the operation of an electrolyzed water supply device 100. Figure 1(a) shows the configuration of the electrolyzed water supply device 100. The electrolyzed water supply device 100 is connected to a main water channel 10. The electrolyzed water supply device 100 includes a confluence position 14, a second opening / closing unit 20, a water supply channel 110, a first opening / closing unit 112, a water storage unit 114, a chloride ion supply unit 116, an electrolysis unit 118, a water intake unit 120, a water intake channel 122, a check valve 124, a water level sensor 126, and a control unit 130.

[0013] The main water channel 10 is a pipe connected to a water pipe within the facility and supplies tap water. A water supply channel 110 branches off from the main water channel 10 at a branch position 12. The water supply channel 110 carries water (tap water) from the main water channel 10. A first opening / closing unit 112 is provided in the water supply channel 110. The first opening / closing unit 112 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve, and opens and closes the water supply channel 110. The opening and closing of the first opening / closing unit 112 is controlled by a control unit 130.

[0014] The water storage unit 114 has a box shape with an open top and is structured to store water. When the first opening / closing unit 112 is open, it stores water supplied from the water supply channel 110. A chloride ion supply unit 116 is disposed above the opening of the water storage unit 114. The chloride ion supply unit 116 can be loaded with an electrolysis accelerator, and rotates a tablet injection member (not shown) when it receives an instruction from the control unit 130 to inject the electrolysis accelerator. When the tablet injection member rotates, the electrolysis accelerator falls into the water storage unit 114. The chloride ion supply unit 116 counts the number of electrolysis accelerators that have fallen into the chloride ion supply unit 116, and when it determines that one tablet of electrolysis accelerator has fallen into the water storage unit 114, it stops rotating the tablet injection member. The electrolysis accelerator dissolves in the water in the water storage unit 114, producing water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit 114. An example of the electrolysis promoter is sodium chloride, which is formed as an electrolysis promoter tablet. That is, the chloride ion supply unit 116 can supply chloride ions to the water reservoir 114.

[0015] The electrolysis unit 118 is installed so as to be immersed in the water in the water storage unit 114. When energized based on instructions from the control unit 130, the electrolysis unit 118 electrolyzes the water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit 114, generating electrolyzed water containing active oxygen species. Here, active oxygen species refers to oxygen molecules and related substances that have higher oxidative activity than normal oxygen. For example, active oxygen species include so-called active oxygen in the narrow sense, such as superoxide anion, singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radical, or hydrogen peroxide, as well as so-called active oxygen in the broad sense, such as ozone or hypochlorous acid (hypohalous acid). Electrolyzed water is also called hypochlorous acid water, and hypochlorous acid water of a predetermined concentration is generated in the water storage unit 114.

[0016] The water intake unit 120 is disposed within the water storage unit 114 and is connected to the water intake channel 122. The water intake unit 120 is, for example, a pump, and when it operates in accordance with instructions from the control unit 130, it pumps the electrolyzed water stored in the water storage unit 114 toward the water intake channel 122 (is capable of drawing water). The water intake channel 122 is a pipe connecting the water storage unit 114 and the main water channel 10. Specifically, the water intake channel 122 extends from the water intake unit 120 and joins with the main water channel 10 at the joining position 14. As a result, the water intake channel 122 delivers the electrolyzed water taken in by the water intake unit 120 to the main water channel 10. The check valve 124 prevents tap water in the main water channel 10 from flowing toward the water storage unit 114.

[0017] The water level sensor 126 can detect a first water level L1 (FIG. 1(b)) in the water storage section 114 and a second water level L2 (FIG. 1(c)) that is higher than the first water level L1. Since the water level sensor 126 can use known technology, the explanation will be used here. For example, the first water level L1 is the drought level, and the second water level L2 is the full water level. The water level sensor 126 notifies the control section 130 when it detects that the water level in the water storage section 114 is the first water level L1, and notifies the control section 130 when it detects that the water level in the water storage section 114 is the second water level L2.

[0018] A second opening / closing unit 20 is provided in the main water channel 10 between the branching position 12 and the confluence position 14. The second opening / closing unit 20 is, for example, a solenoid valve, and opens and closes the main water channel 10. The opening and closing of the second opening / closing unit 20 is controlled by a control unit 130. The control unit 130 is communicatively connected to the second opening / closing unit 20, the first opening / closing unit 112, the chloride ion supply unit 116, the electrolysis unit 118, the water intake unit 120, and the water level sensor 126. The control unit 130 controls the second opening / closing unit 20, the first opening / closing unit 112, the chloride ion supply unit 116, the electrolysis unit 118, and the water intake unit 120.

[0019] 1(b), the control unit 130 closes the second opening / closing unit 20 and opens the first opening / closing unit 112. In this state, water from the main water channel 10 is supplied to the water storage unit 114 via the branch position 12 and the water supply channel 110. When the water level in the water storage unit 114 reaches the first water level L1, the water level sensor 126 detects that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is at the first water level L1. The water level sensor 126 notifies the control unit 130 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is at the first water level L1.

[0020] Figure 1(c) shows a state following Figure 1(b). When the water level in the water storage section 114 reaches the second water level L2, the water level sensor 126 detects that the water level in the water storage section 114 is the second water level L2. The water level sensor 126 notifies the control section 130 that the water level in the water storage section 114 is the second water level L2.

[0021] The control unit 130 is notified by the water level sensor 126 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is the first water level L1, and is also notified by the water level sensor 126 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is the second water level L2. The control unit 130 identifies the timing at which it is notified that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is the first water level L1 (hereinafter referred to as the "first timing") and the timing at which it is notified that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is the second water level L2 (hereinafter referred to as the "second timing").

[0022] The control unit 130 calculates the time difference t (min) between the first timing and the second timing. The time difference t (min) corresponds to the time from when the water level sensor 126 detects the first water level L1 to when it detects the second water level L2. In addition, since the bottom area of the water storage unit 114 is known, the volume V (L) of the water storage unit 114 between the first water level L1 and the second water level L2 is also known. The control unit 130 calculates the flow rate Q (L / min) per unit time of the main water channel 10 by dividing the volume V (L) by the time difference t (min).

[0023] FIG. 2 shows the data structure of a table stored in the control unit 130. The table shows the correspondence between the flow rate Q and the pump drive rotation speed. The pump drive rotation speed corresponds to the amount of water pumped by the water intake unit 120, i.e., the water supply rate of the water intake unit 120. When the flow rate Q is small, the water supply rate of the water intake unit 120 is small, and when the flow rate Q is large, the water supply rate of the water intake unit 120 is large. In this way, as the flow rate Q of the main water passage 10 increases, the pump drive rotation speed is increased, and the water supply rate of the water intake unit 120 is set to increase. In other words, when the first opening / closing unit 112 is closed and the second opening / closing unit 20 is open, the control unit 130 adjusts the water supply rate that the water intake unit 120 should supply from the water intake passage 122 based on the measured time difference. Furthermore, the control unit 130 increases the water supply rate that the water intake unit 120 should supply from the water intake passage 122 as the measured time becomes shorter.

[0024] FIG. 1(d) shows a state following FIG. 1(c). When the control unit 130 is notified by the water level sensor 126 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is at the second water level L2, it closes the first opening / closing unit 112. As a result, the supply of water from the water supply channel 110 to the water storage unit 114 is stopped. Next, the control unit 130 sends an instruction to the chloride ion supply unit 116 to supply an electrolysis promoter, and the chloride ion supply unit 116 supplies the electrolysis promoter (chloride ions) to the water storage unit 114. The amount of electrolysis promoter to be supplied is determined in advance. Thereafter, the control unit 130 sends an instruction to the electrolysis unit 118 to apply electricity, and the electrolysis unit 118 carries out the electricity application. The duration of the electricity application is determined in advance. As a result, electrolyzed water is produced in the water storage unit 114.

[0025] Figure 1(e) shows a state following Figure 1(d). The control unit 130 transmits the determined pump drive rotation speed to the water intake unit 120, and the water intake unit 120 rotates at the received pump drive rotation speed, thereby causing electrolyzed water to be fed from the water intake channel 122. In other words, the flow rate of electrolyzed water fed from the water intake unit 120 is adjusted based on the calculated flow rate. The electrolyzed water from the water intake channel 122 merges with the water from the main water channel 10, and diluted electrolyzed water is discharged.

[0026] The subject of the device, system, or method of the present disclosure includes a computer. The computer executes a program to realize the functions of the subject of the device, system, or method of the present disclosure. The computer includes, as its main hardware component, a processor that operates according to the program. The processor may be of any type, as long as it can realize the functions by executing the program. The processor may be composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integration (LSI). The electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or may be provided on multiple chips. The multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or may be provided on multiple devices. The program is recorded on a non-transitory recording medium, such as a computer-readable ROM, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or may be supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0027] The operation of the electrolyzed water supply device 100 configured as described above will now be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the water supply procedure performed by the electrolyzed water supply device 100. The control unit 130 closes the second opening / closing unit 20 and opens the first opening / closing unit 112 (S10). The control unit 130 measures the time required for the water to reach the first water level L1 and the second water level L2 (S12). The control unit 130 determines the rotation speed based on the measured time (S14). The chloride ion supply unit 116 introduces an electrolysis promoter into the water storage unit 114, and the electrolysis unit 118 electrolyzes the water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit 114. The control unit 130 opens the second opening / closing unit 20 with the first opening / closing unit 112 closed (S16). The water intake unit 120 supplies electrolyzed water at the determined rotation speed (S18).

[0028] (Variation 1) Here, we will explain variant 1 of the electrolyzed water supply device 100. Until now, the amount of electrolyzed water supplied has been adjusted based on the flow rate Q of the main water channel 10. On the other hand, in variant 1, the electrolysis time is adjusted based on the flow rate Q of the main water channel 10. Generally, the concentration of electrolyzed water increases as the electrolysis time increases. Therefore, variant 1 can be said to adjust the concentration of electrolyzed water based on the flow rate Q of the main water channel 10. Here, we will mainly explain the differences from the previous variants.

[0029] The electrolyzed water supply device 100 according to the first modification has the same configuration as that shown in Fig. 1(a) and operates in the same manner as that shown in Fig. 1(b)-(c). Therefore, the water level sensor 126 notifies the control unit 130 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is at the first water level L1 when the water level in the water storage unit 114 reaches the first water level L1, and notifies the control unit 130 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is at the second water level L2 when the water level in the water storage unit 114 reaches the second water level L2. The control unit 130 also calculates the flow rate Q (L / min) per unit time in the main water channel 10 based on the time difference t (min) between the first timing and the second timing.

[0030] FIG. 4 shows the data structure of the table stored in the control unit 130. The table shows the correspondence between the flow rate Q and the electrolysis time. The electrolysis time is the time for which electricity is applied to the electrolysis unit 118 and corresponds to the time for generating electrolyzed water. When the flow rate Q is small, the electrolysis time is short, and when the flow rate Q is large, the electrolysis time is long. In this way, as the flow rate Q of the main water passage 10 increases, the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit 118 is lengthened, and the concentration of the electrolyzed water is set to increase. In other words, with the first opening / closing unit 112 closed and the second opening / closing unit 20 open, the control unit 130 adjusts the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit 118 based on the measured time difference. Furthermore, the control unit 130 lengthens the electrolysis time as the measured time decreases.

[0031] FIG. 1(d) shows a state following FIG. 1(c). When the control unit 130 is notified by the water level sensor 126 that the water level in the water storage unit 114 is at the second water level L2, it closes the first opening / closing unit 112. As a result, the supply of water from the water supply channel 110 to the water storage unit 114 is stopped. Next, the control unit 130 sends an instruction to supply an electrolysis promoter to the chloride ion supply unit 116, and the chloride ion supply unit 116 supplies the electrolysis promoter (chloride ions) to the water storage unit 114. The amount of electrolysis promoter to be supplied is determined in advance. Thereafter, the control unit 130 sends an instruction to apply current to the electrolysis unit 118. The instruction to apply current includes information about the determined electrolysis time. The electrolysis unit 118 applies current for the electrolysis time included in the instruction to apply current. As a result, electrolyzed water is produced in the water storage unit 114.

[0032] Figure 1(e) shows the state following Figure 1(d). The control unit 130 sends an operation instruction to the water intake unit 120. The water intake unit 120 feeds electrolyzed water from the water intake channel 122 in accordance with the operation instruction. The amount of water to be fed, i.e., the pump driving rotation speed, is determined in advance. The control unit 130 also opens the second opening / closing unit 20. This causes water to flow in the main water channel 10. The electrolyzed water from the water intake channel 122 merges with the water from the main water channel 10, and diluted electrolyzed water is discharged.

[0033] (Variation 2) Next, Variation 2 of the electrolyzed water supply device 100 will be described. Up until now, the water level sensor 126 has detected when the water level in the water storage section 114 has reached the first water level L1 and when the water level in the water storage section 114 has reached the second water level L2. If the water surface in the water storage section 114 sways significantly due to the force of the water from the water supply channel 110, the accuracy of water level detection will deteriorate. Variation 2 aims to prevent deterioration in water level detection accuracy. Here, the differences from the previous versions will be mainly described.

[0034] 5(a)-(f) show an overview of the operation of the electrolyzed water supply device 100. In the electrolyzed water supply device 100, the water storage section 114 is separated into a first water storage section 114a and a second water storage section 114b by a separation wall 140. The height of the separation wall 140 is made lower than the height of the outer walls of the first water storage section 114a and the second water storage section 114b. The water supply channel 110, chloride ion supply section 116, and electrolysis section 118 are arranged in the first water storage section 114a. Furthermore, the water intake section 120 and water level sensor 126 are arranged in the second water storage section 114b.

[0035] The water level sensor 126 can detect a first water level L1 (FIG. 5(d)) in the second water storage section 114b and a second water level L2 (FIG. 5(e)) that is higher than the first water level L1. For example, the first water level is a drought level, and the second water level is a water level that is lower than the upper end of the separation wall 140. The water level sensor 126 notifies the control section 130 when it detects that the water level in the second water storage section 114b is the first water level L1, and notifies the control section 130 when it detects that the water level in the second water storage section 114b is the second water level L2.

[0036] In Figure 5(b), the control unit 130 closes the second opening / closing unit 20 and opens the first opening / closing unit 112. In this state, water from the main water channel 10 is supplied to the first water storage unit 114a via the branch position 12 and the water supply channel 110. When the control unit 130 has supplied a certain amount of water from the water supply channel 110 to the first water storage unit 114a, it also closes the first opening / closing unit 112. As a result, the supply of water from the water supply channel 110 to the first water storage unit 114a is stopped.

[0037] In FIG. 5(c), the control unit 130 sends an instruction to supply an electrolysis promoter to the chloride ion supply unit 116, and the chloride ion supply unit 116 supplies the electrolysis promoter (chloride ions) to the first water storage unit 114a. The amount of electrolysis promoter to be supplied is determined in advance. Thereafter, the control unit 130 sends an instruction to apply current to the electrolysis unit 118, and the electrolysis unit 118 carries out the current application. The current application time is determined in advance. As a result, electrolyzed water is produced in the first water storage unit 114a.

[0038] In FIG. 5(d), the control unit 130 closes the second opening / closing unit 20 and opens the first opening / closing unit 112. In this state, water from the main water channel 10 is supplied again to the first water storage unit 114a via the branch position 12 and the water supply channel 110. The electrolyzed water is diluted with water in the first water storage unit 114a. When the amount of water supplied to the first water storage unit 114a from the water supply channel 110 is increased, the electrolyzed water in the first water storage unit 114a (diluted electrolyzed water) flows to the second water storage unit 114b. When the water level in the second water storage unit 114b reaches the first water level L1, the water level sensor 126 detects that the water level in the second water storage unit 114b is at the first water level L1. The water level sensor 126 notifies the control unit 130 that the water level in the second water storage unit 114b is at the first water level L1.

[0039] 5(e), the supply of water from the water supply channel 110 to the first water storage section 114a continues, and the electrolyzed water (diluted electrolyzed water) in the first water storage section 114a further flows to the second water storage section 114b. When the water level in the second water storage section 114b reaches the second water level L2, the water level sensor 126 detects that the water level in the second water storage section 114b is at the second water level L2. The water level sensor 126 notifies the control section 130 that the water level in the second water storage section 114b is at the second water level L2.

[0040] The control unit 130 is notified by the water level sensor 126 that the water level in the second water storage unit 114b is the first water level L1, and is also notified by the water level sensor 126 that the water level in the second water storage unit 114b is the second water level L2. The control unit 130 identifies the timing at which it is notified that the water level in the second water storage unit 114b is the first water level L1 (hereinafter referred to as the "first timing") and the timing at which it is notified that the water level in the second water storage unit 114b is the second water level L2 (hereinafter referred to as the "second timing").

[0041] The control unit 130 calculates the time difference t (min) between the first timing and the second timing. Furthermore, since the bottom area of the water storage unit 114 is known, the volume V (L) of the water storage unit 114 between the first water level L1 and the second water level L2 is also known. The control unit 130 calculates the flow rate Q (L / min) per unit time of the main water passage 10 by dividing the volume V (L) by the time difference t (min). Furthermore, the control unit 130 holds the table shown in FIG. 2 and determines the pump drive rotation speed based on the flow rate Q.

[0042] 5(f), the control unit 130 transmits the determined pump drive rotation speed to the water intake unit 120, and the water intake unit 120 rotates at the received pump drive rotation speed to feed electrolyzed water from the water intake channel 122. The electrolyzed water from the water intake channel 122 joins with the water from the main water channel 10, and diluted electrolyzed water is discharged.

[0043] According to this embodiment, the amount of electrolyzed water supplied is adjusted according to the estimated flow rate from the main water channel 10, thereby suppressing variations in the concentration of the diluted electrolyzed water discharged between households. Furthermore, since the flow rate from the main water channel 10 is estimated, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed. Furthermore, since an increase in the number of parts is suppressed, the electrolyzed water supply device 100 can be made smaller. Furthermore, the shorter the measured time, the greater the amount of water that the water intake unit 120 should supply from the water intake channel 122, thereby stabilizing the concentration of the diluted electrolyzed water.

[0044] Furthermore, since the electrolysis time is adjusted according to the estimated flow rate from the main water channel 10, it is possible to suppress variations in the concentration of the diluted electrolyzed water discharged between households. Furthermore, the shorter the measured time, the longer the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit 118, so the concentration of the diluted electrolyzed water can be stabilized. Furthermore, by detecting the drought water level and the full water level, the amount of water used to calculate the flow rate is increased, so the impact of variations in water flow rate can be suppressed.

[0045] Furthermore, since the water is separated into the first water storage section 114a and the second water storage section 114b and the force of the water flowing from the first water storage section 114a to the second water storage section 114b is smaller, the swaying of the water surface can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the swaying of the water surface is suppressed, the accuracy of water level detection can be improved. Furthermore, since the drought water level and the water level lower than the upper end of the separation wall 140 are detected, the water level can be detected in the range below the separation wall 140 where the swaying of the water surface is suppressed.

[0046] An outline of one aspect of the present disclosure is as follows. (Item 1) a water supply channel (110) branching off at a branching position (12) from a main water channel (10) that supplies tap water; a first opening / closing section (112) for opening and closing the water supply passage (110); a water storage section (114) that stores water supplied from the water supply channel (110) when the first opening / closing section (112) is open; a chloride ion supply unit (116) capable of supplying chloride ions to the water storage unit (114); an electrolysis unit (118) that electrolyzes the water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit (114) to generate electrolyzed water; a water intake section (120) capable of taking in the electrolyzed water from the water storage section (114); an intake channel (122) extending from the intake section (120) and joining the main channel (10) at a joining position (14), and supplying the electrolyzed water taken in by the intake section (120) to the main channel (10); a water level sensor (126) capable of detecting a first water level in the water storage section (114) and a second water level higher than the first water level; a second opening / closing unit (120) provided in the main water channel (10) between the branching position (12) and the joining position (14), and a control unit (130) that controls the first opening / closing unit (112) and the water intake unit (120); the control unit (130) measures the time from when the water level sensor (126) detects the first water level to when the water level sensor (126) detects the second water level while the second opening / closing unit (120) is closed and the first opening / closing unit (112) is open; The control unit (130) adjusts the amount of water to be fed from the water intake channel (122) by the water intake unit (120) based on the measured time when the first opening / closing unit (112) is closed and the second opening / closing unit (120) is open.

[0047] (Item 2) Item 1. The electrolyzed water supply device (100) according to item 1, wherein the control unit (130) increases the amount of water that the water intake unit (120) should supply from the water intake channel (122) as the measured time becomes shorter.

[0048] (Item 3) a water supply channel (110) branching off at a branching position (12) from a main water channel (10) that supplies tap water; a first opening / closing section (112) for opening and closing the water supply passage (110); a water storage section (114) that stores water supplied from the water supply channel (110) when the first opening / closing section (112) is open; a chloride ion supply unit (116) capable of supplying chloride ions to the water storage unit (114); an electrolysis unit (118) that electrolyzes the water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit (114) to generate electrolyzed water; a water intake section (120) capable of taking in the electrolyzed water from the water storage section (114); an intake channel (122) extending from the intake section (120) and joining the main channel (10) at a joining position (14), and supplying the electrolyzed water taken in by the intake section (120) to the main channel (10); a water level sensor (126) capable of detecting a first water level in the water storage section (114) and a second water level higher than the first water level; a second opening / closing unit (120) provided in the main water channel (10) between the branching position (12) and the joining position (14), and a control unit (130) that controls the first opening / closing unit (112), the water intake unit (120), and the electrolysis unit (118); the control unit (130) measures the time from when the water level sensor (126) detects the first water level to when the water level sensor (126) detects the second water level while the second opening / closing unit (120) is closed and the first opening / closing unit (112) is open; the control unit (130) causes the water intake unit (120) to supply water from the water intake channel (122) while the first opening / closing unit (112) is closed and the second opening / closing unit (120) is open; The control unit (130) adjusts the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit (118) based on the measured time.

[0049] (Item 4) Item 4. The electrolyzed water supply device (100) according to item 3, wherein the control unit (130) extends the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit (118) as the measured time becomes shorter.

[0050] (Item 5) 5. The electrolyzed water supply device (100) according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the first water level is a drought level and the second water level is a full water level.

[0051] (Item 6) The water storage section (114) is separated into a first water storage section (114a) and a second water storage section (114b) by a separation wall (140), The first water storage section (114a) is provided with the water supply channel (110) and the electrolysis section (118), 2. The electrolyzed water supply device (100) according to item 1, wherein the water intake section (120) and the water level sensor (126) are disposed in the second water storage section (114b).

[0052] (Item 7) 7. The electrolyzed water supply device (100) according to item 6, wherein the first water level is a drought level, and the second water level is a water level lower than the upper end of the separation wall.

[0053] The present disclosure has been described above based on examples. These examples are merely illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component or each treatment process, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0054] 10 main water channel, 12 branching position, 14 confluence position, 20 second opening / closing section, 100 electrolyzed water supply device, 110 water supply channel, 112 first opening / closing section, 114 water storage section, 116 chloride ion supply section, 118 electrolysis section, 120 water intake section, 122 water intake channel, 124 check valve, 126 water level sensor, 130 control section, 140 separation wall.

Claims

1. a water supply channel branching off at a branching position from a main water channel that supplies tap water; a first opening / closing unit that opens and closes the water supply channel; a water storage section that stores water supplied from the water supply channel when the first opening / closing section is open; a chloride ion supply unit capable of supplying chloride ions to the water storage unit; an electrolysis unit that electrolyzes the water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit to generate electrolyzed water; a water intake section capable of taking in the electrolyzed water from the water storage section; An intake channel extending from the intake section and joining the main channel at a joining position, and supplying the electrolyzed water taken in by the intake section to the main channel; a water level sensor capable of detecting a first water level in the water storage section and a second water level higher than the first water level; a second opening / closing unit provided in the main water channel between the branching position and the joining position, a control unit for controlling the first opening / closing unit and the water intake unit, the control unit measures the time from when the water level sensor detects the first water level to when the water level sensor detects the second water level in a state where the second opening / closing unit is closed and the first opening / closing unit is open; The control unit of the electrolytic water supply device adjusts the amount of water that the water intake unit should supply from the water intake channel based on the measured time when the first opening / closing unit is closed and the second opening / closing unit is open.

2. 2. The electrolyzed water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit increases the amount of water that the water intake unit should supply from the water intake channel as the measured time becomes shorter.

3. a water supply channel branching off at a branching position from a main water channel that supplies tap water; a first opening / closing unit that opens and closes the water supply channel; a water storage section that stores water supplied from the water supply channel when the first opening / closing section is open; a chloride ion supply unit capable of supplying chloride ions to the water storage unit; an electrolysis unit that electrolyzes the water containing chloride ions in the water storage unit to generate electrolyzed water; a water intake section capable of taking in the electrolyzed water from the water storage section; An intake channel extending from the intake section and joining the main channel at a joining position, and supplying the electrolyzed water taken in by the intake section to the main channel; a water level sensor capable of detecting a first water level in the water storage section and a second water level higher than the first water level; a second opening / closing unit provided in the main water channel between the branching position and the joining position, and a control unit that controls the first opening / closing unit, the water intake unit, and the electrolysis unit; the control unit measures the time from when the water level sensor detects the first water level to when the water level sensor detects the second water level in a state where the second opening / closing unit is closed and the first opening / closing unit is open; the control unit causes the water intake unit to supply water from the water intake channel in a state in which the first opening / closing unit is closed and the second opening / closing unit is open; The control unit adjusts the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit based on the measured time.

4. The electrolyzed water supply device according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit extends the electrolysis time in the electrolysis unit as the measured time becomes shorter.

5. 5. The electrolyzed water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the first water level is a drought level, and the second water level is a full water level.

6. The water storage section is separated into a first water storage section and a second water storage section by a separation wall, The first water storage section has the water supply channel and the electrolysis section disposed therein, 2. The electrolyzed water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the second water storage section is provided with the water intake section and the water level sensor.

7. 7. The electrolyzed water supply device according to claim 6, wherein the first water level is a drought level, and the second water level is a water level lower than an upper end of the separation wall.

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