Electrolytic water making apparatus and electric voltage control method

Abstract

To provide an electrolytic water making apparatus capable of preventing an electrolysis tank from heating in the empty state when a water flow of a dilution channel is weakened.SOLUTION: An electrolytic water making apparatus (1) includes an electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11), an electrolysis tank (12), a dilution channel (13) that sucks an electrolysis generation liquid from the electrolysis tank (12) by a water flow of a dilution water for dilution and for generating an electrolytic water, wherein a suction pressure generated by the water flow of the dilution water is conducted to the electrolysis tank (12) and an electrolyte aqueous solution is sucked out to the electrolysis tank (12) from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11), a power generation circuit (31) for generating an electric voltage by using an impeller (15) provided in the dilution channel (13), a sensor (36) for detecting an indicator of a transfer volume of the electrolyte aqueous solution to the electrolysis tank (12), and a control unit (37) wherein, based on an output of the sensor (36), an electric voltage is applied to the electrolysis tank (12) in the case that a transfer volume is determined to be a first standard or over and an electric voltage is not applied to the electrolysis tank (12) in the case that a transfer volume is determined to be smaller than the first standard.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrolytic water generating device and a voltage control method thereof. [Background technology]

[0002] In some electrolyzed water generators, a battery is charged with power generated by an impeller installed in a dilution flow path for the electrolytic solution produced by the electrolytic cell, and the battery drives the electrolytic cell. Furthermore, a pump upstream of the electrolytic cell is driven by part of the torque obtained by the impeller from the dilution flow path, and the pump uses this to suck the electrolyte solution from the electrolyte solution tank and send it to the electrolytic cell. In such electrolyzed water generators, if the flow of dilution water in the dilution flow path weakens, the torque obtained by the impeller decreases, reducing the amount of electrolyte solution sent by the pump to the electrolytic cell, which could lead to the electrolytic cell running dry. Therefore, a dry-burn prevention function is required. The dry-burn prevention function can be realized by a control unit for the generated power (see, for example, Patent Document 1, for an example of a power control unit). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-96510 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an electrolytic water generating device that can prevent the electrolytic cell from running dry when the water flow in the dilution flow path weakens. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention is, for example, as follows: In the following, the reference numerals of the figures are used for reference. [1] An electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11), an electrolytic cell (12) for electrolyzing an aqueous electrolyte solution to produce an electrolytic solution; a dilution flow path (13) that draws in and dilutes the electrolytic solution from the electrolytic cell (12) with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolyzed water, and a suction pressure generated by the water flow of dilution water is transmitted to the electrolytic cell (12), so that the aqueous electrolyte solution is sucked from the aqueous electrolyte solution tank (11) to the electrolytic cell (12); a power generation circuit (31) that generates a voltage using an impeller (15) provided in the dilution flow path (13); a sensor (36, 36A, 36B) for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte solution delivered to the electrolytic cell (12); a control unit (37) that applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it determines that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a first level based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A, 36B), and that does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it determines that the feed rate is less than the first level; An electrolytic water generating device (1, 1A) comprising: [2] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A) according to [1], When the control unit (37) determines that the amount of water delivered is smaller than the first level based on the output of the sensor (36, 36A, 36B), the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A) applies the output voltage of the power generating circuit (31) to a battery (2). [3] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A) according to [2], When the control unit (37) determines, based on the output of the sensor (36, 36A, 36B), that the amount of water fed is equal to or greater than the first level and that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is lower than the second level, the control unit (37) applies the output voltage of the battery (2) to the electrolytic cell (12). [4] In the electrolyzed water generator (1, 1A) according to [3], When the control unit (37) determines based on the output of the sensor (36, 36A, 36B) that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is equal to or higher than the second level, the control unit (37) applies the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) to the electrolytic cell (12) and the battery (2). [5] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A) according to [4], The control unit (37) a first switch (33) that can be opened and closed on a first line (32) that connects the power generation circuit (31) and the electrolytic cell (12); a second switch (34) located on the first line (32) closer to the power generation circuit (31) than the first switch (33), and switchable between a connection state of the first line (32) and a connection state between the electrolytic cell (12) side of the first line (32) and an output terminal of the battery (2), an input terminal of the battery (2) is connected to the first line (32) between the first switch (33) and the second switch (34); The control unit (37) when it is determined based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A, 36B) that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is equal to or higher than the second level, the first switch (33) is closed and the second switch (34) is brought into a connected state with the first line (32), thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) to the electrolytic cell (12) and the battery (2); when it is determined based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A, 36B) that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is lower than the second level and the feed rate is equal to or higher than the first level, the first switch (33) is closed and the second switch (34) is used to connect the electrolytic cell (12) side of the first line (32) to the output terminal of the battery (2), thereby applying the output power of the battery (2) to the electrolytic cell (12); When it is determined based on the output of the sensor (36, 36A, 36B) that the amount of water delivered is smaller than the first level, the electrolyzed water generator (1, 1A) opens the first switch (33) and connects the second switch (34) to the first line (32), thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) to the battery (2). [6] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1A) according to [1], The control unit (37) includes a third switch (39) that can be opened and closed on a second line (38) that connects the battery (2) and the electrolytic cell (12), and when it determines that the feed rate is equal to or greater than the first level based on the output of the sensors (36, 36A, 36B), it closes the third switch (39) to apply the output voltage of the battery (2) to the electrolytic cell (12), and when it determines that the feed rate is less than the first level based on the output of the sensors (36, 36A, 36B), it opens the third switch (39) to not apply voltage to the electrolytic cell (12). [7] An electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11); an electrolytic cell (12) for electrolyzing an aqueous electrolyte solution to produce an electrolytic solution; a pump (19) disposed between the aqueous electrolyte solution tank (11) and the electrolytic cell (12) for feeding the electrolytically produced solution in the aqueous electrolyte solution tank (11) to the electrolytic cell (12); a dilution flow path (13) for diluting the electrolytic solution sent from the electrolytic cell (12) with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolyzed water; a power generation circuit (31) that generates a voltage using an impeller (15) provided in the dilution flow path (13) and applies the voltage to the pump (19); a sensor (36, 36A to 36C) for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell (12); a control unit (37) that applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it determines that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a third level based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A to 36C), and that does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it determines that the feed rate is less than the third level; An electrolytic water generating device (1B) comprising: [8] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1B) according to [7], The control unit (37) Based on the output of the sensors (36, 36A to 36C), If it is determined that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is equal to or higher than the fourth level, the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is applied to the electrolytic cell (12) and the battery (2); When it is determined that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is lower than the fourth level and the amount of water fed is equal to or greater than the third level, the output voltage of the battery (2) is applied to the electrolytic cell (12); When it is determined that the amount of water delivered is smaller than the third level, the electrolyzed water generating device (1B) applies the output voltage of the power generating circuit (31) to the battery (2). [9] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1B) according to [8], a first switch (33) that can be opened and closed on a first line (32) that connects the power generation circuit (31) and the electrolytic cell (12); a second switch (34) located on the first line (32) closer to the power generation circuit (31) than the first switch (33), and switchable between a connection state of the first line (32) and a state of connecting the electrolytic cell (12) side of the first line (32) and an output terminal of the battery (2); an input terminal of the battery (2) is connected to the first line (32) between the first switch (33) and the second switch (34); The control unit (37) when it is determined based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A to 36C) that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is equal to or higher than the fourth level, the first switch (33) is closed and the second switch (34) is brought into a connected state with the first line (32), thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) to the electrolytic cell (12) and the battery (2); when it is determined based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A to 36C) that the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) is lower than the fourth level and the feed rate is equal to or higher than the third level, the first switch (33) is closed and the second switch (34) is used to connect the electrolytic cell (12) side of the first line (32) to the output terminal of the battery (2), thereby applying the output voltage of the battery (2) to the electrolytic cell (12); When it is determined based on the outputs of the sensors (36, 36A to 36C) that the amount of water delivered is smaller than the third level, the electrolyzed water generator (1B) opens the first switch (33) and connects the second switch (34) to the first line (32), thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) to the battery (2).

[10] In the electrolyzed water generator (1B) according to any one of [7] to [9], The sensor (36C) of the electrolytic water generating device (1B) detects the flow rate of the aqueous electrolyte solution sent by the pump (19) to the electrolytic cell (12).

[11] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A, 1B) according to any one of [1] to [9], The sensor (36) detects the output voltage of the power generation circuit (31) of the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A, 1B).

[12] In the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A, 1B) according to any one of [1] to [9], The sensor (36A) detects the number of revolutions of the impeller (15) of the electrolyzed water generating device (1, 1A, 1B).

[13] In the electrolyzed water generator (1, 1A, 1B) according to any one of [1] to [9], The sensor (36B) detects the flow rate of the dilution flow path (13) of the electrolyzed water generator (1, 1A, 1B).

[14] A voltage control method for an electrolyzed water generator (1, 1A) comprising: a power generation circuit (31) that generates voltage using an impeller (15) provided in a dilution flow path (13) that draws in an electrolytic solution from an electrolytic cell (12) with a water flow of dilution water to dilute it and produce electrolyzed water; and a sensor (36, 36A, 36B) that detects an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent from an electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11) to the electrolytic cell (12), wherein suction pressure generated by the water flow of dilution water is transmitted from the dilution flow path (13) to the electrolytic cell (12), and the electrolyte aqueous solution is sucked from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11) to the electrolytic cell (12), The voltage control method applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it is determined based on the output of the sensor (36, 36A, 36B that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a fifth level, and does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it is determined that the feed rate is less than the fifth level.

[15] A voltage control method for an electrolytic water generator (1B) including a power generation circuit (31) that generates a voltage using an impeller (15) provided in a dilution flow path (13) that dilutes an electrolytic solution sent from an electrolytic cell (12) with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolytic water, and applies the voltage to a pump (19) located between an aqueous electrolyte solution tank (11) and the electrolytic cell (12), and sensors (36, 36A-36C) that detect an indicator of the amount of aqueous electrolyte solution sent by the pump (19) to the electrolytic cell (12), The voltage control method applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it is determined based on the output of the sensor (36, 36A to 36C that the feed rate is equal to or higher than a sixth level, and does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it is determined that the feed rate is lower than the sixth level.

[16] An electrolyte aqueous solution tank (11); an electrolytic cell (12) for electrolyzing an aqueous electrolyte solution to produce an electrolytic solution; a dilution flow path (13) that draws in and dilutes the electrolytic solution from the electrolytic cell (12) with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolyzed water, and a suction pressure generated by the water flow of dilution water is transmitted to the electrolytic cell (12), so that the aqueous electrolyte solution is sucked from the aqueous electrolyte solution tank (11) to the electrolytic cell (12); sensors (36A, 36B) for detecting the rotation speed of an impeller (15) provided in the dilution flow path (13) or the flow rate of the dilution flow path (13) as an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell (12); a control unit (37) that applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it is determined based on the outputs of the sensors (36A, 36B) that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a first level, and that does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell (12) when it is determined that the feed rate is less than the first level; An electrolytic water generating device (1A) comprising: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device according to a first embodiment, in which the output voltage of a power generation circuit is applied to an electrolytic cell and a battery. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aspirator that constitutes an inlet point of a dilution flow path. [Figure 3] 4 is a flowchart for explaining a control process for applying a voltage to an electrolytic cell by a control unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device that applies the output voltage of a battery to an electrolytic cell. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device that applies the output voltage of a power generation circuit to a battery. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device according to a second embodiment, in which the output voltage of a battery is applied to an electrolytic cell. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart for explaining a control process for applying a voltage to an electrolytic cell by a control unit in a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an application example of a rotation sensor. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an application example of a flow rate sensor. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device according to a third embodiment, in which the output voltage of a power generation circuit is applied to an electrolytic cell and a battery. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device that applies the output voltage of a battery to an electrolytic cell. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device that applies the output voltage of a power generation circuit to a battery. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrolyzed water generating device 1. As shown in FIG. The electrolytic water generating device 1 includes an aqueous electrolyte solution tank 11 , an electrolytic cell 12 , a dilution flow path 13 , a water supply unit 14 , an impeller 15 , an electrolytic water discharge unit 16 , a battery 2 , and a power supply circuit 3 .

[0008] The electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 stores an appropriate electrolyte aqueous solution. When the electrolytic water generator 1 generates slightly acidic electrolyzed water with an effective chlorine concentration of 10 to 80 ppm and a pH of 5.0 to 6.5, hydrochloric acid or a solution obtained by adding a sodium chloride aqueous solution to hydrochloric acid can be used as the electrolyte aqueous solution. When the electrolytic water generator 1 generates electrolyzed hypochlorous acid with an effective chlorine concentration of 10 to 80 ppm and a pH of 7.5 or higher, a sodium chloride aqueous solution can be used as the electrolyte aqueous solution. The electrolyte aqueous solution stored in the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 is sent to the electrolytic cell 12.

[0009] The electrolytic cell 12 is a single-chambered cell, and its interior is not divided by a diaphragm. The electrolytic cell 12 electrolyzes the electrolyte aqueous solution by applying a voltage of a certain value or higher corresponding to the electrolyte aqueous solution to a pair of electrodes contained therein, thereby producing an electrolytic product solution. In the electrolytic water generator 1, when hydrochloric acid or a solution of hydrochloric acid and a sodium chloride solution is used as the electrolyte aqueous solution and the electrolytic cell 12 is equipped with only a pair of electrodes, for example, chlorine begins to be generated in the electrolytic cell 12 when a voltage of 1.3 V or higher is applied to the electrodes. A satisfactory amount of chlorine is generated (a satisfactory electrolytic product solution is produced) at 1.5 V or higher, enabling the electrolytic water generator 1 to produce a satisfactory slightly acidic electrolytic water. Appropriate gases generated during electrolysis, such as hydrogen and chlorine, may be separated from the electrolytic product solution by a separation mechanism (not shown) provided in the electrolytic cell 12 and discharged to the outside, or may be discharged from the electrolytic cell 12 together with the electrolytic product solution. The electrolytic product solution in the electrolytic cell 12 is sent to the dilution flow path 13 via a pipe 18.

[0010] The dilution flow path 13 is supplied with raw water (water for diluting the electrolytic solution, dilution water) such as tap water or RO (reverse osmosis) water from a water supply unit 14. In this embodiment, the water supply unit 14 is connected to a water supply, and the raw water supplied from the water supply unit 14 to the dilution flow path 13 is subjected to water pressure from the water supply. A pipe 18 for transporting the electrolytic solution electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 12 is connected to the pipe constituting the dilution flow path 13 at an inflow point 131. The dilution flow path 13 draws in the electrolytic solution from the electrolytic cell 12 with the raw water flow and dilutes it to produce electrolyzed water. For example, the dilution flow path 13 dilutes the electrolytic solution produced in the electrolytic cell 12 so that it meets the requirements for slightly acidic electrolyzed water (effective chlorine concentration of 10 to 80 ppm, pH 5.0 to 6.5). The dilution flow path 13 discharges the diluted electrolyzed water from an electrolyzed water discharge unit 16.

[0011] At the inflow point 131, the flow of raw water through the dilution flow path 13 generates suction pressure on the pipe 18, and this suction pressure causes the electrolytic product solution electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 12 to be sucked into the dilution flow path 13 via the pipe 18. This suction pressure is transmitted to the electrolytic cell 12, causing the electrolyte aqueous solution to be sucked from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to the electrolytic cell 12. Therefore, in this embodiment, a pump for sucking the electrolyte aqueous solution from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 is not required.

[0012] At the inlet point 131, the pipe 18 may be a narrow pipe, for example, about 20% smaller in diameter than the pipe constituting the dilution flow path 13, so that suction pressure is generated in the pipe 18. As shown in FIG. 2 , a so-called aspirator 9 may be provided at the inlet point 131, which generates suction pressure in the pipe 18 using raw water as a driving fluid. The aspirator 9 may be a T-shaped joint in which a branch pipe 91 constitutes the pipe 18 and a main pipe 92 constitutes the pipe of the dilution flow path 13. In the main pipe 92 of the aspirator 9, raw water is sprayed from a tapered nozzle 93 provided upstream, with its flow velocity increased and its pressure reduced, and the raw water proceeds into a diffuser 94. The diffuser 94 has a constricted portion and a diverging portion provided downstream thereof, which reduces the flow velocity of the raw water and restores the pressure of the raw water in the diffuser 94. The raw water flow generates suction pressure at a transition portion 95 (inlet point 131) in the main pipe 92 from the nozzle 93 to the diffuser 94. A branch pipe 91 is connected to the transition section 95, and the suction pressure generated in the transition section 95 causes the electrolytic product solution in the branch pipe 91 to be sucked into the main pipe 92. The sucked electrolytic product solution is mixed with the raw water in the main pipe 92 in the transition section 95 and diluted. Any appropriate configuration can be used for the aspirator 9 as long as it can reduce the pressure in the raw water and generate a Venturi effect.

[0013] Returning to Fig. 1, impeller 15 is provided in dilution flow path 13 for power generation and rotates due to the flow of raw water. In dilution flow path 13, inlet point 131 is provided downstream of impeller 15, but may be provided upstream of impeller 15 as shown in Fig. 1(A). When inlet point 131 is provided upstream of impeller 15, impeller 15 can effectively stir the electrolytic solution when diluting and mixing it.

[0014] The battery 2 is provided to apply voltage to the electrolytic cell 12 when the flow of raw water supplied from the water supply unit 14 is weak and power generation is hindered. The battery 2 may be an external battery of the electrolyzed water generator 1, or may be connected to the electrolyzed water generator 1. The battery 2 has an input terminal and an output terminal (not shown).

[0015] The power supply circuit 3 is connected to the battery 2, impeller 15, and electrolytic cell 12, and uses the impeller 15 to generate a voltage which is applied to the electrolytic cell 12 and / or the battery 2, or applies the output voltage of the battery 2 to the electrolytic cell 12. The power supply circuit 3 comprises the following elements 31 to 37.

[0016] The power generation circuit 31 generates voltage through electromagnetic induction using the kinetic energy transmitted from the impeller 15. In the power generation circuit 31, for example, the rotor rotates due to torque transmitted from the rotating shaft of the impeller 15, and electromagnetic induction occurs due to interaction between the rotor and the stator surrounding the rotor, generating an AC voltage in the rotor winding. The power generation circuit 31 converts this AC voltage to DC via a converter or the like (not shown) and outputs it.

[0017] The first line 32 connects the power generation circuit 31 and the electrolytic cell 12 .

[0018] The first switch 33 is located on the first line 32 and can be opened or closed. The first switch 33 may be a contact switch or a non-contact switch.

[0019] The second switch 34 is located closer to the power generation circuit 31 than the first switch 33 in the first line 32. The second switch 34 is switchable between a connection state of the first line 32 and a connection state between the electrolytic cell 12 side of the first line 32 and the output end of the battery 2. The second switch 34 may also be a contact or a contactless switch.

[0020] In the first line 32, the input terminal of the battery 2 is connected between the first switch 33 and the second switch 34 via a diode 35. When the power generation circuit 31 is generating a sufficient amount of power, the battery 2 is charged via the diode 35.

[0021] In this embodiment, a voltage sensor 36 of the power generation circuit 31 is provided as a sensor for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12. The voltage sensor 36 detects the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 and outputs the detected value to the control unit 37. The output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 corresponds to the rotation speed of the impeller 15 provided in the dilution flow path 13 and therefore corresponds to the energy of the raw water flow in the dilution flow path 13. The energy of the water flow in the dilution flow path 13 corresponds to the suction pressure generated at the inlet point 131 and transmitted to the electrolytic cell 12 and therefore corresponds to the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to the electrolytic cell 12. Therefore, the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 detected by the voltage sensor 36 can be an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12; an increase in the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 increases the amount of delivered electrolyte aqueous solution, and a decrease in the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 decreases the amount of delivered electrolyte aqueous solution.

[0022] The control unit 37 is configured to include appropriate circuit elements such as a comparator and a processor, and controls the first switch 33 and the second switch 34 based on the output of the voltage sensor 36. The control process of the control unit 37 for applying a voltage to the electrolytic cell 12 will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 3 in addition to FIG. 1.

[0023] When the control unit 37 determines, based on the output of the voltage sensor 36, that the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 is equal to or higher than the second level suitable for electrolysis (step S1: YES), it closes the first switch 33 and connects the second switch 34 to the first line 32, thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 to the electrolytic cell 12 and the battery 2 (step S2). The second level can be set to the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 that is applied to the electrolytic cell 12 at which the electrolytic product solution begins to be produced satisfactorily in the electrolytic cell 12. The second level may be a threshold value for the voltage at the output end of the power generation circuit 31.

[0024] Before performing the determination process of step S1, the first switch 33 is closed, and the second switch 34 is connected to the first line 32 to apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell 12, and the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 is detected. When the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 is equal to or higher than the second level suitable for electrolysis, the suction pressure generated at the inlet point 131 of the dilution flow path 13 ensures that the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to the electrolytic cell 12 is sufficient for electrolysis.

[0025] As described above, the electrolyzed water generating device 1 performs electrolysis at the output voltage of the power generating circuit 31 when the output voltage of the power generating circuit 31 is sufficient for electrolysis.

[0026] When the control unit 37 determines based on the output of the voltage sensor 36 that the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 is lower than the second level suitable for electrolysis (step S1: NO), it determines whether the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is equal to or higher than the first level (fifth level) at which the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 can be maintained (step S3). If the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is lower than the first level, the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 may decrease, exposing the electrodes, which may cause the electrodes to overheat and be damaged, resulting in so-called dry-fire. As described above, the output of the voltage sensor 36 (the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31) and an increase or decrease in the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 both correspond to an increase or decrease in the energy of the water flow in the dilution flow path 13. Therefore, the output of the voltage sensor 36 corresponds to the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12.

[0027] When the control unit 37 determines based on the output of the voltage sensor 36 that the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution being fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is equal to or greater than a first level that can maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 (step S3: YES), as shown in FIG. 4, it closes the first switch 33 and places the second switch 34 in a state that connects the electrolytic cell 12 side of the first line 32 to the output terminal of the battery 2, thereby applying the output voltage of the battery 2 to the electrolytic cell 12 (step S4).

[0028] As described above, even if the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 is insufficient due to a weakened water flow in the dilution flow path 13 or a malfunction in the impeller 15 or the power generation circuit 31, the electrolyzed water generator 1 can perform electrolysis using the output voltage of the battery 2, as long as the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to the electrolytic cell 12 is sufficient and the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 can at least be maintained. Therefore, the electrolyzed water generator 1 can perform electrolysis without cutting off the voltage applied to the electrolytic cell 12, and can continuously produce electrolyzed water.

[0029] When the control unit 37 determines based on the output of the voltage sensor 36 that the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 is lower than the second level at which the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 can be maintained (step S1: NO), and when the control unit 37 determines that the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is lower than the first level at which the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 can be maintained (step S3: NO), as shown in Figure 5, it opens the first switch 33 (step S5) and connects the second switch 34 to the first line 32, thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 to the battery 2 (step S6).

[0030] As described above, when the water flow in the dilution flow path 13 weakens and the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to the electrolytic cell 12 is insufficient to maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12, the electrolytic water generator 1 does not apply voltage to the electrolytic cell 12, thereby preventing the electrolytic cell 12 from running dry. In this case, the electrolytic water generator 1 uses the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 to charge the battery 2, thereby making effective use of the generated energy. As described in the background art, some electrolytic water generators drive a pump that sends electrolyte aqueous solution to the electrolytic cell by transmitting torque from an impeller provided in the dilution flow path to the pump. In such electrolytic water generators, when the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to the electrolytic cell by the pump decreases, a highly concentrated electrolytic solution is produced in the electrolytic cell (and in some cases, this becomes gas). Furthermore, if the flow of dilution water in the dilution flow path is weak, the electrolytic solution cannot be sufficiently diluted, and electrolytic water of the desired quality cannot be obtained. In the electrolytic water generating device 1 of the present application, a similar problem may occur if the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is insufficient to maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12. However, in the electrolytic water generating device 1, if the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is insufficient to maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12, electrolysis is not performed, thereby preventing the production of low-quality electrolytic water.

[0031] (Second embodiment) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electrolyzed water generator 1A. In the electrolyzed water generator 1A, the power generation circuit 31 is not connected to the electrolytic cell 12, and only the battery 2 is connected to the electrolytic cell 12 via a second line 38. The second line 38 has a third switch 39 that can be opened and closed and is under the control of the control unit 37. The third switch 39 may have a contact or a contactless type. The rest of the configuration of the electrolyzed water generator 1A is the same as that of the electrolyzed water generator 1.

[0032] The control process of the control unit 37 for applying voltage to the electrolytic cell 12 will be described below with reference to the flowchart of Figure 7 in addition to Figure 6. Based on the output of the voltage sensor 36, the control unit 37 determines whether the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is equal to or greater than a first level that can maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 (step S11). As described above, an increase or decrease in the output of the voltage sensor 36 (the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31) and the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 both correspond to an increase or decrease in the energy of the water flow in the dilution flow path 13; therefore, the output of the voltage sensor 36 corresponds to the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12.

[0033] If the control unit 37 determines, based on the output of the voltage sensor 36, that the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is equal to or greater than the first level at which the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 can be maintained (step S11: YES), it closes the third switch 39 to apply the output voltage of the battery 2 to the electrolytic cell 12 (step S12).If the control unit 37 determines that the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12 is less than the first level at which the water level in the electrolytic cell 12 can be maintained (step S11: NO), it opens the third switch 39 to disconnect the second line 38 and not apply voltage to the electrolytic cell 12 (step S13).

[0034] In the electrolyzed water generator 1A, the electrolytic cell 12 is driven by voltage application from the battery 2, and in the electrolyzed water generator 1A, if the water flow in the dilution flow path 13 weakens and the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to the electrolytic cell 12 is insufficient to maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12, no voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell 12, thereby preventing the electrolytic cell 12 from running dry and preventing the production of low-quality electrolytic solution. Furthermore, in the electrolyzed water generator 1A, electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 12 is performed not by voltage application from the power generation circuit 31 that generates water by hydroelectric power using the impeller 15, but only by voltage application from the battery 2, making it possible to connect an appropriate load to the power generation circuit 31.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an application example of the rotation sensor 36A. A rotation sensor 36A may be provided instead of the voltage sensor 36 as a sensor for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic bath 12. The rotation sensor 36A detects the rotation speed of the impeller 15 and outputs the detected value to the control unit 37. The rotation speed of the impeller 15 corresponds to the energy of the water flow in the dilution flow path 13 and, therefore, corresponds to the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to the electrolytic bath 12. Therefore, as the rotation speed of the impeller 15 increases, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to the electrolytic bath 12 increases, and as the rotation speed of the impeller 15 decreases, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed decreases. Therefore, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution fed to the electrolytic bath 12 can be estimated based on the output of the rotation sensor 36A, which reflects the rotation speed of the impeller 15, and the control unit 37 can perform the control process shown in FIG. 7 described above.

[0036] Furthermore, the rotation speed of the impeller 15 corresponds to the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31. Therefore, when the rotation sensor 36A is applied to the electrolytic water generator 1 and the electrolytic water generator 1B described below, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12 and the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 can be estimated based on the output of the rotation sensor 36A, which reflects the rotation speed of the impeller 15. Therefore, the control unit 37 can perform the control process shown in FIG. 3 above. The rotation sensor 36A may detect the rotation speed of the rotor of the power generation circuit 31. Note that if the electrolytic water generator 1A includes the rotation sensor 36A, it does not need to include the power generation circuit 31. Even in this case, the electrolytic water generator 1A can perform the control process shown in FIG. 7. When the water flow in the dilution flow path 13 weakens and the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12 is insufficient to maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12, no voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell 12, thereby preventing the electrolytic cell 12 from running dry.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an application example of the flow sensor 36B. A flow rate sensor 36B may be provided instead of the voltage sensor 36 as a sensor that detects an indicator of the amount of aqueous electrolyte solution fed to the electrolytic cell 12. The flow rate sensor 36B detects the flow rate in the dilution flow path 13 and outputs the detected value to the control unit 37. The detection point of the flow rate sensor 36B may be downstream of the impeller 15 and upstream of the inlet point 131 in the dilution flow path 13. The detection point of the flow rate sensor 36B may also be upstream of the impeller 15, as shown in FIG. 9(B). In this manner, the control unit 37 can determine the state of the impeller 15, such as a decrease in the amount of water passing through the impeller 15 or whether there is a malfunction in the impeller 15, based on the degree to which the detection value of the flow rate sensor 36B is low relative to the detected flow rate in the dilution flow path 13.

[0038] The flow rate of the water flow in dilution flow path 13 corresponds to the energy of the water flow, and therefore corresponds to the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent from electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to electrolytic cell 12. Therefore, if the flow rate in dilution flow path 13 increases, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent from electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 to electrolytic cell 12 increases, and if the flow rate decreases, the amount sent decreases. Therefore, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to electrolytic cell 12 can be estimated based on the output of flow sensor 36B, which reflects the flow rate in dilution flow path 13, and control unit 37 can perform the control processing in FIG. 7 described above.

[0039] Similarly, the flow rate in the dilution flow path 13 corresponds to the rotation speed of the impeller 15, and thus corresponds to the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31. Therefore, when the flow rate sensor 36B is applied to the electrolytic water generator 1 and the electrolytic water generator 1B described below, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12 and the output voltage of the power generation circuit 31 can be estimated based on the output of the flow rate sensor 36B, which reflects the flow rate in the dilution flow path 13. This allows the control unit 37 to perform the control process shown in FIG. 3 above. Note that if the electrolytic water generator 1A includes the flow rate sensor 36B, it does not need to include the power generation circuit 31. Even in this case, the electrolytic water generator 1A can perform the control process shown in FIG. 7. When the water flow in the dilution flow path 13 weakens and the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12 is insufficient to maintain the water level in the electrolytic cell 12, no voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell 12, thereby preventing the electrolytic cell 12 from running dry.

[0040] (Third embodiment) FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electrolyzed water generator 1B. In the electrolyzed water generator 1B, a pump 19 is provided between the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 and the electrolytic cell 12. The pump 19 is driven by application of a voltage to the power generation circuit 31, and sucks the electrolyte aqueous solution from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank 11 and sends it to the electrolytic cell 12. Then, the suction force of the pump 19 sends the electrolyzed electrolytic product solution from the electrolytic cell 12 to the dilution flow path 13.

[0041] The sensor for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12 may be the voltage sensor 36 of the power generation circuit 31, as in the electrolytic water generator 1, but in this embodiment, a flow rate sensor 36C is provided. The flow rate sensor 36C is provided downstream or upstream of the pump 19, detects the amount (flow rate) of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered from the pump 19 to the electrolytic cell 12, and outputs the detected value to the control unit 37. Other configurations of the electrolytic water generator 1B and the control process of Figure 3 by the control unit 37 are the same as those of the electrolytic water generator 1. As described above, the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution delivered to the electrolytic cell 12 can be directly detected based on the output of the flow rate sensor 36C. Therefore, the control unit 37 can perform the control process of Figure 3 (see also Figures 11 and 12).

[0042] The present invention can be implemented in the embodiments without departing from its features. The embodiments, variations, and effects are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. The features and structures of the embodiments and variations can be added and combined in various ways to obtain alternative configurations. [Explanation of symbols]

[0043] 1, 1A, 1B... electrolytic water generating device, 11... electrolyte aqueous solution tank, 12... electrolytic cell, 13... dilution flow path, 31... power generation circuit, 36, 36A, 36B, 36C... sensors, 37... control unit.

Claims

1. an aqueous electrolyte solution tank; an electrolytic cell that electrolyzes an aqueous electrolyte solution to generate an electrolytic product solution; a dilution flow path that draws in and dilutes the electrolytic solution from the electrolytic cell with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolyzed water, and a suction pressure generated by the water flow of dilution water is transmitted to the electrolytic cell, so that the aqueous electrolyte solution is sucked from the aqueous electrolyte solution tank to the electrolytic cell; a power generation circuit that generates a voltage using an impeller provided in the dilution flow path; a sensor for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte solution delivered to the electrolytic cell; a control unit that applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell when it is determined that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a first level based on the output of the sensor, and does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell when it is determined that the feed rate is less than the first level; An electrolyzed water generating device comprising:

2. The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 1, The control unit applies the output voltage of the power generation circuit to a battery when it determines, based on the output of the sensor, that the amount of water delivered is less than the first level.

3. The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 2, The control unit of the electrolytic water generating device applies the output voltage of the battery to the electrolytic cell when it determines, based on the output of the sensor, that the feed rate is equal to or greater than the first level and that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is lower than the second level.

4. The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 3, The control unit applies the output voltage of the power generation circuit to the electrolytic cell and the battery when it determines, based on the output of the sensor, that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is equal to or higher than the second level.

5. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 4, The control unit a first switch that can be opened and closed in a first line connecting the power generation circuit and the electrolytic cell; a second switch located on the first line closer to the power generation circuit than the first switch, and switchable between a connection state of the first line and a state of connecting the electrolytic cell side of the first line and an output terminal of the battery, The input terminal of the battery is connected between the first switch and the second switch in the first line; The control unit when it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is equal to or higher than the second level, closing the first switch and connecting the second switch to the first line, thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit to the electrolytic cell and the battery; when it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is lower than the second level and the feed rate is equal to or higher than the first level, the first switch is closed and the second switch is used to connect the electrolytic cell side of the first line to the output terminal of the battery, thereby applying the output power of the battery to the electrolytic cell; When it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the delivery rate is less than the first level, the electrolytic water generating device opens the first switch and connects the second switch to the first line, thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit to the battery.

6. The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 1, The control unit is provided with a third switch that can be opened and closed on a second line connecting the battery and the electrolytic cell, and when it determines based on the output of the sensor that the feed rate is equal to or greater than the first level, it closes the third switch to apply the output voltage of the battery to the electrolytic cell, and when it determines based on the output of the sensor that the feed rate is less than the first level, it opens the third switch to prevent voltage from being applied to the electrolytic cell.

7. an aqueous electrolyte solution tank; an electrolytic cell that electrolyzes an aqueous electrolyte solution to generate an electrolytic product solution; a pump disposed between the electrolyte aqueous solution tank and the electrolytic cell, for sending the electrolytic product solution in the electrolyte aqueous solution tank to the electrolytic cell; a dilution flow path for diluting the electrolytic solution sent from the electrolytic cell with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolyzed water; a power generation circuit that generates a voltage using an impeller provided in the dilution flow path and applies the voltage to the pump; a sensor for detecting an indicator of the amount of electrolyte solution delivered to the electrolytic cell; a control unit that applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell when it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a third level, and that does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell when it is determined that the feed rate is less than the third level; An electrolyzed water generating device comprising:

8. The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 7, The control unit, based on the output of the sensor, If it is determined that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is equal to or higher than a fourth level, the output voltage of the power generation circuit is applied to the electrolytic cell and the battery; When it is determined that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is lower than the fourth level and the feeding amount is equal to or greater than the third level, the output voltage of the battery is applied to the electrolytic cell; When it is determined that the amount of water delivered is less than the third level, the electrolytic water generating device applies the output voltage of the power generating circuit to the battery.

9. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 8, a first switch that can be opened and closed in a first line connecting the power generation circuit and the electrolytic cell; a second switch located on the first line closer to the power generation circuit than the first switch, and switchable between a connection state of the first line and a state of connecting the electrolytic cell side of the first line and an output terminal of the battery; The input terminal of the battery is connected between the first switch and the second switch in the first line; The control unit when it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is equal to or higher than the fourth level, closing the first switch and connecting the second switch to the first line, thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit to the electrolytic cell and the battery; when it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the output voltage of the power generation circuit is lower than the fourth level and the feed rate is equal to or higher than the third level, the first switch is closed and the second switch is used to connect the electrolytic cell side of the first line to the output terminal of the battery, thereby applying the output voltage of the battery to the electrolytic cell; When it is determined based on the output of the sensor that the delivery rate is less than the third level, the electrolytic water generating device opens the first switch and connects the second switch to the first line, thereby applying the output voltage of the power generation circuit to the battery.

10. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, The sensor detects the flow rate of the aqueous electrolyte solution sent by the pump to the electrolytic cell.

11. The electrolyzed water generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The sensor detects the output voltage of the power generation circuit.

12. The electrolyzed water generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The sensor detects the rotation speed of the impeller of the electrolytic water generating device.

13. The electrolyzed water generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The sensor detects the flow rate of the dilution flow path.

14. A voltage control method for an electrolyzed water generator comprising: a power generation circuit that generates voltage using an impeller provided in a dilution flow path that draws in an electrolytic solution from an electrolytic cell with a water flow of dilution water to dilute it and generate electrolyzed water; and a sensor that detects an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent from an electrolyte aqueous solution tank to the electrolytic cell, wherein suction pressure generated by the water flow of dilution water is transmitted from the dilution flow path to the electrolytic cell, and the electrolyte aqueous solution is sucked from the electrolyte aqueous solution tank to the electrolytic cell, A voltage control method in which, based on the output of the sensor, if the feed rate is determined to be equal to or greater than a fifth level, a voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell, and if the feed rate is determined to be less than the fifth level, no voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell.

15. A voltage control method for an electrolyzed water generating apparatus including a power generating circuit that generates a voltage using an impeller provided in a dilution flow path that generates electrolyzed water by diluting an electrolytic solution sent from an electrolytic cell with a water flow of dilution water, and applies the voltage to a pump located between an electrolyte aqueous solution tank and the electrolytic cell, and a sensor that detects an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to the electrolytic cell by the pump, A voltage control method in which, based on the output of the sensor, if the feed rate is determined to be equal to or greater than a sixth level, a voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell, and if the feed rate is determined to be less than the sixth level, no voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell.

16. an aqueous electrolyte solution tank; an electrolytic cell that electrolyzes an aqueous electrolyte solution to generate an electrolytic product solution; a dilution flow path that draws in and dilutes the electrolytic solution from the electrolytic cell with a water flow of dilution water to produce electrolyzed water, and a suction pressure generated by the water flow of dilution water is transmitted to the electrolytic cell, so that the aqueous electrolyte solution is sucked from the aqueous electrolyte solution tank to the electrolytic cell; a sensor for detecting the rotation speed of an impeller provided in the dilution flow path or the flow rate of the dilution flow path as an indicator of the amount of electrolyte aqueous solution sent to the electrolytic cell; a control unit that applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell when it is determined that the feed rate is equal to or greater than a first level based on the output of the sensor, and does not apply a voltage to the electrolytic cell when it is determined that the feed rate is less than the first level; An electrolyzed water generating device comprising:

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