Washing apparatus and washing method

Abstract

To provide a washing apparatus that can suppress vibration and noise, while securing usability that is the same as usability of a generally-used washing machine, and can secure detergency better than detergency in a washing machine utilizing washing with mechanical power.SOLUTION: A washing apparatus 1 according to the present invention comprises: a washing tank 2 that stores an object to be washed; a mixing tank 4 in which washing liquid including hydrogen peroxide is mixed with washing liquid including alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal hydrogen carbonate; and a light emitting mechanism 3 that emits light with wavelengths of 350-450 nm to the washing tank 2. In a state where the washing liquid mixed in the mixing tank 4 is supplied to the washing tank 2, the light emitting mechanism emits light into the washing tank 2 to generate hydroxyl radical, so as to wash the object to be washed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning device and a cleaning method for cleaning items such as clothes by utilizing accelerated oxidation by radicals. [Background technology]

[0002] Textile products such as clothing (hereinafter referred to as "items to be cleaned") are generally washed using vertical or drum-type washing machines. These washing machines are devices that immerse the items to be cleaned in a liquid such as water or organic solvent, and rotate and agitate the liquid to mechanically remove dirt adhering to the items to be cleaned. The source of the dirt removal effect in these cleaning methods is the mechanical force that transfers movement to the fibers by mechanically moving the liquid, and then mechanically peels the dirt from the fibers.

[0003] In a vertical washing machine, the laundry items are immersed in a relatively large amount of liquid, and the rotation of the liquid in the washing tub is used to clean the dirt by the movement of the laundry items and the contact between the laundry items. On the other hand, in a drum washing machine, the laundry items are placed in a relatively small amount of liquid, and in addition to the movement of the laundry items through the liquid as the drum rotates, the impact of the laundry items being dropped from above the drum also has the effect of removing dirt. Although there are some differences in the movement between the two, they both have in common the ability to wash a large number of laundry items at once by utilizing the cleaning effect caused by mechanical power.

[0004] For example, in a vertical washing machine, a motor rotates the agitator blades located at the bottom of the washing tub and the washing tub itself, rotating the liquid inside the tub and transmitting mechanical power to the laundry. Although motors have become quieter with advances in motor technology, the noise from the motor itself, inverter drive circuitry, and surrounding moving parts is still loud, and they are not quiet enough to be installed in rooms where people relax. Furthermore, because the rotating washing tub takes up most of the volume of a washing machine, vibrations caused by the rotation of the tub are unavoidable. This has led to issues such as limitations on where washing machines can be installed and limiting the time when washing can be done during the day.

[0005] Various improvements have been made to cleaning power. For example, washing machines have been developed that aim to improve cleaning power by incorporating extremely small bubbles called microbubbles or nanobubbles into the water and creating shock waves when the bubbles burst. However, even with these new cleaning technologies, washing machines still basically rely on mechanical force and detergent surfactants to remove dirt, and remain unchanged from the past.

[0006] On the other hand, both top-loading and drum-type washing machines have been developed over many years, resulting in significant improvements in their usability. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses technology related to a washing machine equipped with a water tub housed in a housing and a laundry treatment liquid tank for containing laundry treatment liquid such as detergent to be supplied to the water tub. In Patent Document 1, the required amount of detergent is automatically supplied from the laundry treatment liquid tank during washing, eliminating the need to supply detergent every time, and as a result, significantly reducing the chance of detergent accidentally getting on hands or dripping around the washing machine. In recent years, washing machines that store liquid detergent within the device to improve usability have become standard. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-159415 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] While top-loading and drum-type washing machines are extremely user-friendly, they fundamentally rely on mechanical power and surfactants for cleaning, which means their cleaning power is limited. For example, mechanical cleaning is effective for cleaning dirt such as mud and sand, which are small particles entangled in the fibers. However, for dirt that has extremely small units, such as sebum and oils used in food, which chemically bond with clothing fibers, while they exhibit a certain level of cleaning power, they often do not always achieve satisfactory cleaning power, resulting in insufficient color fading or residual stains. Furthermore, because cleaning of laundry is based on mechanical power, a certain amount of damage to the clothes and noise and vibration caused by the mechanism that generates the mechanical power are unavoidable.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a washing device and a washing method that ensures the same ease of use as a general washing machine, while suppressing vibration and noise, and ensuring cleaning power equal to or greater than that of washing machines that use mechanical cleaning. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides, as an example, a cleaning device equipped with a cleaning tank that contains an object to be cleaned, and including a mixing tank that mixes a cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide with a cleaning liquid containing an alkali metal carbonate or an alkali metal bicarbonate, and a light irradiation mechanism that irradiates the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm, and is characterized in that, while the cleaning liquid mixed in the mixing tank is supplied to the cleaning tank, light is irradiated from the light irradiation mechanism into the cleaning tank to generate hydroxyl radicals and clean the object to be cleaned. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing device and a washing method that ensures the same ease of use as a general washing machine, while suppressing vibration and noise, and ensuring cleaning power equal to or greater than that of washing machines that use mechanical cleaning. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1A]1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a modification of the cleaning device 1 of FIG. 1A in which only one liquid inlet is provided. [Figure 1C] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration in which a mechanism for storing two types of cleaning liquid is provided inside a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a flowchart showing the cleaning process of the cleaning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device 1 equipped with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide solution according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device 1 equipped with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide solution according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a modified example in which a liquid inlet 23 is added to the cleaning device 1 of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device having a liquid inlet and a powder inlet according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a modification in which the cleaning device 1 of FIG. 6A has two liquid inlets. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device having a mechanism for cleaning the outer wall of a cleaning tank according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device provided with a mechanism for cleaning a drainage pipe according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In principle, identical elements are designated by the same reference numerals in all drawings. Furthermore, descriptions of parts having identical functions will be omitted. Note that the configurations described below are merely examples, and it is not intended that the embodiments of the present invention be limited to the specific embodiments below.

[0014] In the following examples, a cleaning device and a cleaning method for cleaning an object to be cleaned that has localized dirt attached thereto will be described. [Example]

[0015] First, a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 3. FIG.

[0016] <Schematic configuration of cleaning device 1> 1A is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The cleaning device 1 has a cleaning tub 2 for storing and cleaning items (clothing), a light irradiation mechanism 3 for irradiating light onto the cleaning tub 2, a first liquid inlet 21 for introducing a cleaning liquid into the device, and a second liquid inlet 22 for similarly introducing a cleaning liquid into the device. In this embodiment, a cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide and a cleaning liquid containing an alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate are mixed together and used as the cleaning liquid for cleaning the items, as will be described later.

[0017] Water supply piping 10, which supplies water from the outside to the apparatus, is connected to a first liquid inlet 21 and a second liquid inlet 22 via flow rate control valves 13a and 13b, respectively. One end of cleaning liquid introduction piping 14 is connected to first liquid inlet 21 and second liquid inlet 22, and the other end of cleaning liquid introduction piping 14 is connected to mixing tank 4. First liquid inlet 21 and second liquid inlet 22 are each connected to mixing tank 4 via cleaning liquid introduction piping 14.

[0018] A cleaning liquid supply pipe 15 is connected from the mixing tank 4 to the cleaning tank 2 via a flow rate adjustment valve 13c, so that water supplied from the outside and cleaning liquid introduced through a first liquid inlet 21 and a second liquid inlet 22 can be introduced into the cleaning tank 2. A drain pipe 16 is further installed from the cleaning tank 2 via a flow rate adjustment valve 13d so that the liquid in the cleaning tank 2 can be discharged outside the apparatus.

[0019] A power supply line 11 is connected from the outside of the cleaning device 1 to supply power to the device. In this embodiment, power is supplied to each station within the device via a control unit 5. The control unit 5 is connected to the parts within the device that are powered by electricity, and supplies power and controls the operation of each part. The control unit 5 also controls the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 via an input / output unit 6.

[0020] When using the cleaning device, the user uses first liquid inlet 21 to add the first cleaning liquid. Similarly, second liquid inlet 22 is used to add the second cleaning liquid. When these cleaning liquids are added, they flow into mixing tank 4. By appropriately opening flow rate adjustment valves 13a and 13b, all of the added cleaning liquid flows into mixing tank 4.

[0021] In the mixing tank 4, the cleaning liquids introduced from the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 are mixed to form the cleaning liquid (mixed cleaning liquid) used for cleaning. The mixing of the cleaning liquids in the mixing tank can be achieved by simply placing the two cleaning chemicals in the same container, but it may be better to provide a mechanism for forced mixing as appropriate depending on the cleaning chemicals being used. For example, when using powdered cleaning chemicals as in the example described below, it is better to have a forced mixing mechanism. Possible forced mixing mechanisms include stirring with a rotor, vibration, and heating. After mixing as appropriate depending on the cleaning chemicals being used, the flow rate adjustment valve 13c is opened and the cleaning liquid is poured into the cleaning tank 2.

[0022] The cleaning tank 2 is used to store and clean the objects to be cleaned. The objects to be cleaned are immersed in the cleaning solution and are cleaned by irradiating them with light from the light irradiation mechanism 3. The size of the cleaning tank 2 can be adjusted to match the size of the objects to be cleaned. If the size of the objects to be cleaned is small, such as stains on clothing, the device can be made smaller by not supplying water from the water supply pipe 10 to the cleaning tank 2, but by attaching a small water tank inside the device and using a rechargeable battery inside the device for power supply.

[0023] The light irradiation mechanism 3 irradiates a predetermined light into the cleaning tank 2. The light preferably has a wavelength in the range of 350 to 450 nm. By irradiating a predetermined cleaning solution with light in this wavelength range, hydroxyl radicals with high oxidizing power are generated, which oxidize and decompose the dirt on the object to be cleaned, thereby cleaning the object. If the light irradiation intensity is high, the cleaning time will be shorter, but the heat generated from the light source will be greater, and forced cooling may be necessary. In addition, the price of the light source will be higher, and so will the cost of the equipment. On the other hand, if the light irradiation intensity is low, the heat generated will be reduced, and the effort required for cooling will be reduced. In addition, the price of the light source will be lower, and so will the cost of the equipment. However, the time required for cleaning will be longer. In this example, the wavelength is 365 nm, and the light irradiation intensity on the object to be cleaned is 50 to 100 mW / cm. 2 The light source used was a UV-LED (Ultra Violet - Light Emitting Diode).

[0024] Next, a description will be given of the connection relationship between the control unit 5 and each controlled part. Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the cleaning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] 2, the control unit 5 is electrically connected to the parts that require control and power supply, and supplies power to each part and turns their drive ON / OFF. In the figure, solid lines indicate power supply lines and signal lines, and dotted lines indicate correspondence with the parts (first liquid inlet 21, second liquid inlet 22, mixing tank 4, cleaning tank 2) whose flow rates are adjusted by the flow rate adjustment valves 13a to 13d.

[0026] The control unit 5 controls the flow rate adjustment valves 13a-13d, the light irradiation mechanism 3, and the cleaning tank 2 via the input / output unit 6, and exchanges information with the user about the start and stop of the cleaning device 1, as well as the settings and operational regulations required for cleaning. Settings required for cleaning include the strength and duration of the cleaning power, but these are not limited to these, as some of these settings depend on the design of the device's user interface. Operational regulations mainly include starting, pausing, and stopping cleaning.

[0027] Furthermore, the control unit 5 monitors the state of the cleaning tank 2 and also functions as a safety mechanism to stop the light irradiation mechanism 3 as necessary. When placing an object to be cleaned into the cleaning tank 2, the lid of the cleaning tank 2 must be opened. Because light is directly irradiated onto the cleaning tank 2 from the light irradiation mechanism 3, the light irradiation mechanism 3 is exposed when the lid of the cleaning tank 2 is open. For this reason, if a cleaning operation is started with the light irradiation mechanism 3 exposed, or if the lid of the cleaning tank 2 is opened while a cleaning operation is in progress, there is a risk that the light from the light irradiation mechanism 3 will be directly irradiated onto the user. To avoid this, the control unit 5 monitors whether the lid of the cleaning tank 2 is open, and if the lid is open, controls so that light irradiation from the light irradiation mechanism 3 is not performed.

[0028] The cleaning device 1 is started by pressing the start switch provided on the input / output unit 6. The control unit 5 displays the necessary setting items on the input / output unit 6 and prompts the user to make the settings. The user makes the necessary settings, places the object to be cleaned in the cleaning tank 2, and supplies the cleaning liquid to the liquid inlet. Once the necessary items have been set, the control unit 5 displays a button to start cleaning and waits until the user gives the command to start. The user closes the lid of the cleaning tank 2 and presses the cleaning start button on the input / output unit 6 to start cleaning.

[0029] Here, a touch panel is assumed as the input / output unit 6, but instructions to progress the display may be given by mechanical buttons or by lighting lamps or the like.

[0030] <Cleaning procedure> The cleaning procedure according to this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the cleaning process of the cleaning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the procedure for cleaning stains caused by a drop of chili oil on cotton sweatshirt fabric is shown, taking as an example stains adhering to a part of clothing, which is the object to be cleaned.

[0031] First, the cleaning device 1 is started (step S301: step of starting up the cleaning device).

[0032] Next, the item to be cleaned is placed in the cleaning tank 2 (Step S302: Step of placing the item to be cleaned in the cleaning tank). When the cleaning device 1 is for small stains such as spots, the stain on the clothes is placed directly under the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 3. This is because the stain comes off faster when the light irradiation intensity is strong.

[0033] Next, cleaning conditions are set according to instructions from the input / output unit 6 (step S303: step of setting cleaning conditions). In this embodiment, the cleaning conditions are set to a light irradiation intensity of 100 mW / cm 2 The cleaning time was set to 50 minutes, taking into consideration that the items to be cleaned were made of thick sweatshirt fabric.

[0034] Next, the first cleaning liquid and the second cleaning liquid, which have been prepared in advance, are respectively introduced into the first liquid inlet and the second liquid inlet (step S304: a process of introducing cleaning liquids from the inlets). In this example, 25 mL of 0.32 w / v% hydrogen peroxide solution was used as the first cleaning liquid, and 25 mL of 0.67 w / v% sodium carbonate aqueous solution was used as the second cleaning liquid. The first cleaning liquid and the second cleaning liquid are allowed to mix naturally in the mixing tank (step S305: a process of mixing the cleaning liquids).

[0035] Once the cleaning conditions have been input, the control unit 5 displays a button to start cleaning and waits. After placing the object to be cleaned in the cleaning tank 2 and adding the first cleaning liquid and the second cleaning liquid to the first liquid inlet and the second liquid inlet, respectively, the user touches the cleaning start button to start cleaning (step S306: step of starting cleaning).

[0036] The control unit 5 opens the flow rate adjustment valve 13c, pours the cleaning liquid mixed in the mixing tank 4 into the cleaning tank 2, and immerses the object to be cleaned in the cleaning liquid (step S307: step of pouring the mixed cleaning liquid into the cleaning tank).

[0037] Thereafter, the control unit 5 supplies power to the light irradiation mechanism 3, and starts irradiating the object to be cleaned in the cleaning tank 2 with light (step S308: a step of irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm). 2The power conditions required for this are set in advance in the memory of the control unit 5. Hydroxyl radicals are generated in the cleaning tank 2, cleaning the object to be cleaned. The control unit 5 maintains this state for a set time, and ends the light irradiation after the set time has elapsed (step S309: step of ending light irradiation).

[0038] The control unit 5 opens the flow rate adjustment valves 13a to 13d to drain the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 2 and introduce clean water into the cleaning tank 2 to wash away the cleaning liquid adhering to the object to be cleaned (step S310: step of draining the cleaning liquid).Then, the control unit 5 causes the input / output unit 6 to display the end of cleaning, and ends the cleaning. <Evaluation of cleaning power> The cleaning power was evaluated by comparing the color before and after cleaning. * a * b * It is quantified using a coordinate system, L * a * b * The cleaning power was quantified by the extent to which the original color was restored by cleaning based on the distance in the color space. Specifically, the distance ΔE between two points in the color space (L1, a1, b1) and (L2, a2, b2) was defined by equation (1).

[0039] ΔE=((L1-L2) 2 +(a1-a2) 2 +(b1-b2) 2 ) (1 / 2) ···(1) In addition, the cleaning rate η was defined by equation (2), where ΔE1 is the distance from the color coordinate of the clean, unsoiled area to the color coordinate of the soiled area before cleaning, and ΔE2 is the distance from the color coordinate of the soiled area after cleaning.

[0040] η=1-ΔE2 / ΔE1 (2) The better the dirt is removed, the closer ΔE2 is to 0, so the closer η is to 1, the better the dirt is removed.

[0041] When cleaning chili oil stains on the sweatshirt fabric mentioned above, the cleaning rate η was 0.99. On the other hand, when the same chili oil stains were cleaned on a light cotton fabric, which is easier to remove than the sweatshirt fabric, using a general drum washing machine with mechanical power and liquid detergent, the cleaning rate was 0.45. Since the washing time for the standard washing course of the washing machine, including rinsing, is about 35 minutes, this is not necessarily a fair comparison, but it is clear that the cleaning device and cleaning method of this example have a higher cleaning power than a washing machine.

[0042] <The origin of cleaning power> The cleaning power of the above cleaning method comes from hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by UV light irradiation of hydroxyl ions, which originate from hydrogen peroxide molecules contained in the cleaning solution or from the dissociation of water induced by hydrogen peroxide, carbonate ions, sodium ions, etc. The strong oxidizing power of the hydroxyl radicals oxidizes the dirt components, breaking down and removing the dirt through the so-called advanced oxidation process (AOP).

[0043] <About cleaning solution> As such, any aqueous solution (cleaning solution) containing hydrogen peroxide can be expected to have a cleaning effect due to the AOP effect. Therefore, any chemical containing hydrogen peroxide molecules can basically be used as a cleaning solution. For example, hydrogen peroxide water alone can be used as a cleaning solution. In this case, a concentration of roughly 3 w / v% will provide sufficient cleaning power without changing other cleaning conditions.

[0044] In the cleaning example above, 25 mL of 0.32 w / v% hydrogen peroxide solution and 25 mL of 0.67 w / v% sodium carbonate solution were prepared and mixed. Mixing these two cleaning solutions results in a solution equivalent to dissolving 1 g of sodium carbonate peroxide in 200 mL of water. Instead of mixing two solutions, cleaning can be achieved by using only sodium carbonate peroxide adjusted to roughly this concentration. Simply adjust the amount to match the size of the object or area to be cleaned without changing the concentration. In this case, only one liquid inlet is required, which simplifies the device configuration as shown in Figure 1B, potentially reducing costs.

[0045] Furthermore, even with the configuration shown in FIG. 1A, cleaning is possible by introducing an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate peroxide into one of the liquid inlets.

[0046] Fig. 1B is a diagram showing a modification in which the cleaning device 1 in Fig. 1A has one liquid inlet. As shown in the modification in Fig. 1B, even with a configuration with one liquid inlet, two types of cleaning liquid can be used by sequentially feeding two types of cleaning liquid through a single liquid inlet 23.

[0047] Although hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate aqueous solution have been used as an example of mixing two liquids to prepare a cleaning solution, sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution can also be used instead of sodium carbonate. The concentration of the sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution can be determined so that the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the solution is equivalent to that of sodium carbonate. Sodium bicarbonate has the advantage of being easily available as baking soda. On the other hand, sodium carbonate has the advantage of being more easily dissolved in water than sodium bicarbonate. Furthermore, alkali metal carbonates such as calcium carbonate and potassium carbonate can be used instead of sodium carbonate. Furthermore, alkali metal bicarbonate such as calcium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate can be used instead of sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution.

[0048] When using an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate peroxide as a cleaning solution, it must be used for cleaning as soon as possible after preparing the solution from powder. This is because the hydrogen peroxide in the aqueous solution decomposes into water and oxygen gas, reducing the hydrogen peroxide concentration. While leaving the solution for 1-2 hours after preparation is generally not a problem, it is best to avoid using it after leaving it for more than half a day.

[0049] <Improved usability> When sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide is used for cleaning using the AOP effect, it cannot be stored as an aqueous solution for long periods of time, so an aqueous solution must be made from powder each time cleaning is performed.On the other hand, in the cleaning example described above, the chemicals required for cleaning can be supplied to the equipment as two types of liquid, and these liquids are stable for long periods of time as long as they are not mixed, eliminating the need to handle powder each time cleaning is performed.

[0050] As long as the two types of cleaning solutions are not mixed, they can be stored for long periods of time, so storing them inside the device can further improve usability.

[0051] FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram showing a configuration in which a mechanism for storing two types of cleaning liquid is provided within the cleaning apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Tanks 17a and 17b for storing the cleaning liquid are provided between the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 and the mixing tank 4, respectively. A user can dispense cleaning liquid into tanks 17a and 17b through the respective liquid inlets (first liquid inlet 21 and second liquid inlet 22) in amounts determined by the tank capacity, eliminating the need to replenish the cleaning liquid each time cleaning is performed. Tanks 17a and 17b are preferably provided with lids to prevent evaporation of the cleaning liquid. An operating mode for replenishing the cleaning liquid may be provided, and the tank lid may be opened when the cleaning liquid operation mode is selected via the input / output unit 6. After the liquid has been dispensed, the lid may be closed by inputting an end to the cleaning operation mode via the input / output unit.

[0052] This method of use requires the use of two cleaning solutions to allow for long-term storage of the cleaning solution.

[0053] <Deterioration due to washing> Because this cleaning method relies on hydroxyl radicals, which have high oxidizing power, there is a risk of deterioration of the object being cleaned. Therefore, we investigated the damage to fabric fibers using sodium carbonate peroxide. A 1g / 200mL aqueous solution of sodium carbonate peroxide was used as the cleaning solution. The number of washes required to damage the fabric was evaluated using a light source with a wavelength of 365nm, an intensity of 100mW / cm2, and an irradiation time of 10 minutes. The fabrics evaluated were commercially available 100% cotton and 100% polyester dress shirts. Because the cleaning method of this invention essentially involves static cleaning, it is difficult to determine whether the fabric has deteriorated based on the wash alone. Therefore, we checked for damage by scrubbing with a brush every 10 minutes. As a result, no damage was observed even after more than 500 washes for both cotton and polyester, confirming extremely low fiber damage.

[0054] According to this embodiment, it is possible to ensure ease of use similar to that of a general washing machine, while suppressing vibration and noise, and ensuring cleaning power equal to or greater than that of a washing machine that uses mechanical cleaning. [Example]

[0055] Example 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device 1 equipped with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide solution according to Example 2 of the present invention. Components common to Example 1 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0056] This example describes a method for reducing the cleaning solution to one solution without changing the advantages of the cleaning method described in Example 1. In Example 1, hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate, or sodium bicarbonate, were used as the liquid cleaning solution. Of these, hydrogen peroxide is generated within the cleaning device, making it possible to reduce the amount of cleaning solution supplied from outside.

[0057] It is known that hydrogen peroxide solution can be generated using only water and electricity using electrochemical techniques, as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Publication Nos. 7126654 and 7268282. In FIG. 4, the H2O2 generation mechanism 30 is an H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) generation module composed of an electrochemical reaction cell. Water is supplied to this H2O2 generation mechanism 30 via a flow control valve 13g, and a power supply line is connected from the control unit 5 to apply a DC voltage between the anode and cathode electrodes of the electrochemical reaction cell. Water is supplied to the anode cell, and air is introduced into the cathode cell. By maintaining the potential of the anode electrode relative to the cathode electrode within a range of 0.5 to 2 V, hydrogen peroxide solution with a concentration of several percent is generated on the cathode side. The generated concentration is determined by the cell configuration, such as the type and amount of catalyst used in the anode and cathode, and the generation conditions, such as the potential. The generated hydrogen peroxide solution is stored in the hydrogen peroxide solution tank 17c. The H2O2 generation mechanism 30 is connected to the mixing tank 4 via the hydrogen peroxide solution tank 17c. When the electrochemical reaction cell is built into the cleaning device 1, the area of ​​each of the anode and cathode electrodes is at most several tens to 100 cm2. 2 Therefore, the concentration and amount of generated product are only a few percent and a few mL / h. Therefore, it is desirable to continue generating the product during standby times when cleaning is not being performed, and to store the product in the tank.

[0058] During cleaning, an aqueous sodium bicarbonate solution or an aqueous sodium bicarbonate solution is introduced through the liquid inlet, and hydrogen peroxide solution is supplied from hydrogen peroxide solution tank 17c and mixed in mixing tank 4. The hydrogen peroxide concentration is determined by the cell used and the generation conditions, so water is added to adjust the concentration to the required level according to the generated concentration. Other cleaning methods are the same as in Example 1.

[0059] According to this embodiment, the hydrogen peroxide solution is generated within the cleaning device, so that the amount of cleaning liquid supplied from the outside can be reduced, and usability can be improved. [Example]

[0060] Example 3 will be described with reference to Figures 5A and 5B. Figure 5A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device 1 equipped with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide solution according to Example 3 of the present invention. Figure 5B is a diagram showing a modified example in which a liquid inlet 23 is added to the cleaning device 1 of Figure 5A. Components common to Examples 1 and 2 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. In this Example, a powdered cleaning chemical is used as the cleaning chemical to be introduced through the inlet.

[0061] Powdered cleaning chemicals include sodium carbonate, an alkali metal carbonate, and sodium bicarbonate, an alkali metal bicarbonate. The required amount of these chemicals is weighed and added through powder inlet 24. Setting several different amounts based on the size of cleaning tank 2 and using the minimum number of spoons required to measure the chemicals can reduce the labor required for weighing. Water is introduced into the mixing tank via flow control valve 13i, and the powdered cleaning chemicals are dissolved in water so that when mixed with the hydrogen peroxide solution stored in hydrogen peroxide solution tank 17c, the resulting solution has a concentration equivalent to that of a sodium carbonate peroxide solution of a predetermined concentration. The powdered cleaning chemicals are thoroughly dissolved so that none remain in the mixing tank. The subsequent cleaning process is the same as that described in Example 1.

[0062] The advantage of this configuration is that powdered cleaning chemicals can be used, so cleaning is possible with only sodium carbonate peroxide without using the H2O2 generation mechanism 30. Commercially available oxygen bleach can be used as the sodium carbonate peroxide, making cleaning chemicals easily available.

[0063] 5B, it is also possible to provide both a liquid inlet 23 and a powder inlet 24. In this case, multiple combinations of cleaning chemicals are possible, such as cleaning with two types of liquid cleaning liquids or cleaning with powder only, which has the advantage of increasing the freedom of selection of cleaning chemicals. [Example]

[0064] Example 4 will be described with reference to Figures 6A and 6B. Figure 6A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device having a liquid inlet and a powder inlet according to Example 4 of the present invention. Figure 6B is a diagram showing a modification in which the cleaning device 1 of Figure 6A has two liquid inlets. Components common to Examples 1 to 3 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. This Example does not include an H2O2 generation mechanism 30, and cleaning is performed using a combination of liquid cleaning chemicals and powder cleaning chemicals.

[0065] Hydrogen peroxide is used as the liquid cleaning solution, and sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate is used as the powder cleaning agent. 3% hydrogen peroxide can be easily obtained using commercially available hydrogen peroxide. 3% hydrogen peroxide is added to tank 17a through liquid inlet 23, and then diluted to the desired concentration by adding water. Meanwhile, the powder cleaning agent is appropriately weighed and added through powder inlet 24 each time cleaning is performed. The subsequent cleaning method is as described in Example 3.

[0066] In this embodiment, since a powder inlet 24 is provided, cleaning can be performed using only a powder cleaning solution, as in embodiment 3. In addition, since this embodiment also has a liquid inlet 23, it is possible to prepare sodium carbonate peroxide outside the device and use it as a liquid cleaning solution alone for cleaning.

[0067] The advantages of this configuration include the fact that it does not have a hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism, making it possible to create an inexpensive configuration, and that multiple cleaning liquid options are available.

[0068] FIG. 6B shows a modification of the cleaning device 1 of FIG. 6A, in which two liquid inlets are provided. The configuration of FIG. 6B adds one more liquid cleaning liquid inlet to the configuration of FIG. 6A: a first liquid inlet 21 and a second liquid inlet 22. This configuration allows for a wider range of cleaning liquid options, including two types of liquid cleaning liquid. For example, a cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide is provided through the first liquid inlet 21, and a cleaning liquid containing sodium carbonate (alkali metal carbonate) or an aqueous solution of sodium bicarbonate (alkali metal bicarbonate) is provided through the second liquid inlet 22. When using a powdered cleaning chemical, the second liquid inlet 22 is not used, and the powdered cleaning chemical, such as sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate, is provided through the powder inlet 24. In this way, this embodiment allows cleaning to be performed using a variety of cleaning chemicals, such as liquid or powder. [Example]

[0069] Example 5 will be described with reference to Figures 7A and 7B. In this example, the cleaning liquid is also used to clean the outer wall of the cleaning tank and the drain pipe. Figure 7A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device equipped with a mechanism for cleaning the outer wall of the cleaning tank according to Example 5 of the present invention. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device equipped with a mechanism for cleaning the drain pipe according to Example 4 of the present invention. Components common to Examples 1 to 4 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the cleaning method can be performed in the same manner as described in Example 1, and description thereof will be omitted; only the cleaning of the outer wall of the cleaning tank and the cleaning of the drain pipe will be described.

[0070] 7A, the cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 is activated while the cleaning liquid is stored in the mixing tank 4. After activation, the flow rate adjustment valve 13e is opened, and the cleaning liquid is supplied to the cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 via the cleaning liquid supply pipe 18. This mechanism may be any method that cleans the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 using the cleaning liquid supplied from the mixing tank 4. For example, the cleaning tank 2 may be slowly rotated while the supplied cleaning liquid is sprayed onto the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2, causing the cleaning liquid to adhere to the entire outer wall of the cleaning tank 2, or simultaneously irradiated with light to generate radicals or active oxygen, or a cleaning method in which a brush is applied to the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 while the cleaning liquid is sprayed and the cleaning tank 2 is rotated. The flow rate adjustment valve 13f may not be necessary depending on the cleaning method used to clean the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2. For example, if the sprayed liquid is not reused but simply discharged as waste liquid, then this is unnecessary. If the cleaning method involves continuously re-spraying the sprayed liquid, then a flow rate control valve 13f can be installed and kept closed while the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 is being cleaned, and after the cleaning is completed, the flow rate control valve 13f can be opened to discharge the liquid through the drain pipes 19 and 16.

[0071] In the configuration of Figure 7B, when the flow rate adjustment valve 13c is closed and the flow rate adjustment valve 13e is opened while the cleaning liquid is stored in the mixing tank 4, the cleaning liquid flows through the cleaning liquid supply pipe 20, bypasses the cleaning tank 2, and flows directly into the drain pipe 16. If the cleaning liquid used to wash clothes and the like in the cleaning tank 2 is repeatedly discharged through the drain pipe 16, dirt will adhere to the inner wall of the drain pipe 16, causing an unpleasant odor. For this reason, it is desirable to flush the drain pipe 16 with water after washing to prevent dirt from adhering, but dirt cannot always be completely removed with water alone. Therefore, by flowing the cleaning liquid directly from the mixing tank 4 into the drain pipe 16, the inner wall of the drain pipe 16 is thoroughly cleaned. It is also possible to clean the inner wall of the drain pipe 16 by flowing the cleaning liquid through the cleaning tank 2 into the drain pipe 16, but in that case, in order to avoid any cleaning liquid remaining inside the cleaning tank 2, it is desirable to run water through the cleaning tank 2 after cleaning the drain pipe 16 so that no cleaning liquid remains inside the cleaning tank 2.

[0072] The cleaning liquid used to clean the outer wall of the washing tub 2 and the inner wall of the drain pipe 16 may be any cleaning liquid disclosed in this specification that is used to wash clothes, etc. The washing tub outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 can be started, for example, by preparing an outer wall cleaning mode in the control unit 5 and having the user select cleaning of the outer wall of the washing tub using the input / output unit 6, or by automatically starting the washing tub outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 every time a certain number of clothes are washed. The inner wall of the drain pipe 16 can be cleaned in a similar manner, but it is preferable to clean it automatically after each wash.

[0073] 1A, the cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 and the drain pipe cleaning mechanism are used, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and similar cleaning tank outer wall mechanisms and drain pipe cleaning mechanisms may be used in other configurations, such as those shown in FIGS. 1B, 1C, 4 to 6B, etc. Furthermore, the cleaning tank outer wall mechanism 25 and the drain pipe cleaning mechanism may be provided together. [Explanation of symbols]

[0074] 1... cleaning device, 2... cleaning tank, 3... light irradiation mechanism, 4... mixing tank, 5... control unit, 6... input / output unit, 10... water supply pipe, 11... external power supply line, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e, 13f, 13g, 13i... flow rate adjustment valve, 14... cleaning liquid introduction pipe, 15... cleaning liquid supply pipe, 16... drain pipe, 17a, 17b... tank, 17c... hydrogen peroxide solution tank, 18... cleaning liquid supply pipe, 19... drain pipe, 20... cleaning liquid supply pipe, 21... first liquid inlet, 22... second liquid inlet, 23... liquid inlet, 24... powder inlet, 25... cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism, 30... H2O2 generation mechanism

Claims

1. A cleaning device having a cleaning tank for accommodating an object to be cleaned, a mixing tank for mixing a cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide with a cleaning liquid containing an alkali metal carbonate or an alkali metal bicarbonate; a light irradiation mechanism for irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm; A cleaning device characterized in that, while the cleaning liquid mixed in the mixing tank is supplied to the cleaning tank, light is irradiated into the cleaning tank from the light irradiation mechanism to generate hydroxyl radicals and clean the object to be cleaned.

2. 2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, a first liquid inlet into which the cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide is introduced and which is connected to the mixing tank; and a second liquid inlet into which the cleaning liquid containing the alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate is introduced and which is connected to the mixing tank.

3. 3. The cleaning device according to claim 2, a tank for storing the cleaning liquid introduced through the first liquid inlet and a tank for storing the cleaning liquid introduced through the second liquid inlet, provided between the first liquid inlet and the mixing tank and between the second liquid inlet and the mixing tank, respectively.

4. 2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, A cleaning device that generates a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide from supplied water and electricity, and that is characterized by having a hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism connected to the mixing tank.

5. 5. The cleaning device according to claim 4, a liquid inlet for introducing a cleaning liquid containing the alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate, the liquid inlet being connected to the mixing tank; a tank for storing the cleaning liquid generated by the hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism and a tank for storing the cleaning liquid introduced through the liquid introduction port, the tank being disposed between the hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism and the mixing tank, and the liquid introduction port and the mixing tank, respectively.

6. A cleaning device having a cleaning tank for accommodating an object to be cleaned, a mixing tank for mixing a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide with a powdered cleaning chemical containing an alkali metal carbonate or an alkali metal bicarbonate; a light irradiation mechanism for irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm; A cleaning device characterized in that, while the cleaning liquid mixed in the mixing tank is supplied to the cleaning tank, light is irradiated into the cleaning tank from the light irradiation mechanism to generate hydroxyl radicals and clean the object to be cleaned.

7. 7. The cleaning device according to claim 6, a liquid inlet for introducing the cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide and connected to the mixing tank; and a powder inlet for introducing the powdered cleaning chemical containing the alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate and connected to the mixing tank.

8. 7. The cleaning device according to claim 6, A cleaning device that generates a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide from supplied water and electricity, and that is characterized by having a hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism connected to the mixing tank.

9. 8. The cleaning device according to claim 7, The liquid inlet is A cleaning device comprising: a first liquid inlet into which the cleaning liquid containing hydrogen peroxide is introduced and which is connected to the mixing tank; and a second liquid inlet into which the cleaning liquid containing the alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate is introduced and which is connected to the mixing tank.

10. 6. The cleaning device according to claim 1, A cleaning device characterized by comprising either a cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism connected to the mixing tank, or piping connecting the mixing tank to a drain pipe for discharging liquid from the cleaning tank, or both.

11. 10. The cleaning device according to claim 6, further comprising: A cleaning device characterized by comprising either a cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism connected to the mixing tank, or piping connecting the mixing tank to a drain pipe for discharging liquid from the cleaning tank, or both.

12. A cleaning method for cleaning an object contained in a cleaning tank, comprising: mixing a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide with a cleaning solution containing an alkali metal carbonate or an alkali metal bicarbonate; pouring the mixed cleaning solution into the cleaning tank; and irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm, A cleaning method characterized in that the object to be cleaned is cleaned by hydroxyl radicals generated in the cleaning tank.

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