Tank system

Abstract

The present invention provides a tank system that enables stable adjustment of the concentration of bubbles in a liquid supplied externally. [Solution] The tank system 10A includes a tank 20 for storing liquid, a first pipe 21 for supplying a first liquid from the outside into the tank, a bubble generator 30 capable of generating bubbles up to a predetermined concentration in the liquid inside the tank that has been drawn in, while generating and discharging bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm, a second pipe 22 for sending the second liquid inside the tank, where the bubbles have reached the predetermined concentration, to the outside of the tank, and a concentration adjustment structure 50 that mixes the second liquid sent out from the second pipe with a third liquid outside the tank to adjust the concentration of bubbles.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tank system.

Background Art

[0002] Bubble generators that generate a gas-liquid mixture containing bubbles with a bubble diameter of 1 μm or less in a liquid are required to be used in various industrial fields. Patent Document 1 proposes providing a bubble generator in a tank provided in a circulation system of an air conditioning system and removing contaminants in the circulation system with the gas-liquid mixture stored in the tank.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the technique proposed in Patent Document 1, there is room for improvement in terms of being able to stably adjust the concentration of bubbles contained in the liquid supplied from the outside.

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a tank system that enables the concentration of bubbles contained in the liquid supplied from the outside to be stably adjusted.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention has the gist of the inventions described in the following (1) to (6).

[0007] (1) A tank for storing a liquid, A first pipe for supplying a first liquid from the outside to the inside of the tank, A bubble generator capable of generating bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm in the liquid inside the tank that has been drawn in, and discharging them, while generating the bubbles up to a predetermined concentration, A second pipe that sends the second liquid inside the tank, where the bubbles have reached the predetermined concentration, to the outside of the tank, A concentration adjustment structure that mixes the second liquid discharged from the second pipe with a third liquid outside the tank to adjust the concentration of the bubbles, A tank system equipped with the following features. (2) In the tank system described in (1) above, A first flow meter for measuring the first flow rate of the first liquid, A second flow meter for measuring the second flow rate of the second liquid, The system further comprises a control device for controlling the circulation of the liquid inside the tank by the bubble generating device, The control device includes a control unit that controls the start and / or stop of the circulation by the bubble generator based on the first flow rate and the second flow rate. Tank system. (3) In the tank system described in (2) above, The control device is The system has an input unit for inputting specification information that specifies the concentration of bubbles contained in the discharged liquid that is discharged to the outside of the tank via the concentration adjustment structure, Based on the specified information input to the input unit, the mixing ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid, which are combined in the concentration adjustment structure, is determined. Tank system. (4) In the tank system described in (2) above, The control device has a time measuring unit that measures the first time during which the cycle continues, The control unit further determines a second time for continuing the circulation based on the first flow rate, the second flow rate, and the first time, and controls the circulation to stop when the second time has elapsed. Tank system. (5) In the tank system described in (2) above, the control device further includes a display unit configured to be able to recognize predetermined information, and the information is displayed on the display unit according to the concentration of the bubbles in the liquid inside the tank. Tank system. (6) In the tank system described in (1) or (2) above, it includes a third pipe for supplying the third liquid, one end of the third pipe is connected to the second pipe, and the other end of the third pipe is connected to the first pipe. Tank system.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a tank system that enables the stable adjustment of the concentration of bubbles contained in the liquid supplied to the outside.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the configuration of an embodiment of a tank system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of an embodiment of a bubble generator. [Figure 3] FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic block diagrams for explaining the configuration of an embodiment of a control unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the configuration of an embodiment of a tank system according to the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0011] Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0012] [1-1 Tank System Configuration] The tank system 10 (referred to as tank system 10A in Figure 1) includes a tank 20 for storing liquid, a bubble generator 60, a first pipe 21, and a second pipe 22.

[0013] (tank) The tank 20 is not particularly limited as long as it has a space capable of storing liquid inside. In the example in Figure 1, the tank 20 has an open top, but this is just one example, and it may also have a closed top. Examples of tanks 20 include water storage tanks installed in various buildings such as office buildings and apartments, facilities such as swimming pools, bathtubs installed in bathrooms and bathhouses, tanks for storing coolant in cooling devices, storage tanks for storing liquids connected to various pieces of equipment and supplied to those devices, and storage units mounted on cleaning devices. A gas-liquid mixture (internal liquid) is temporarily stored in the tank 20 and discharged from the second pipe 22.

[0014] (First tube) The first pipe 21 provided in the tank system 10A is configured to allow liquid (external liquid) from an external liquid supply source (not shown) to flow (supply) into the tank 20. The liquid flowing from the first pipe 21 towards the outlet 21A is referred to as the first liquid. The outlet 21A of the first pipe 21 is positioned within the space of the tank 20, but the position of the outlet 21A of the first pipe 21 is not particularly limited. The first pipe 21 can be formed using piping or the like.

[0015] The first pipe 21 may be provided with a pump (not shown) configured to send the first liquid to the outlet 21A (sending the first liquid in the direction of arrow F1 toward the inside of the tank 20). However, the pump may be omitted. In this case, the first liquid can be made to flow in the first pipe 21 toward the outlet by providing a configuration (such as a configuration in which a pump is located at the supply source) that causes the first liquid to flow into the first pipe 21 from an external liquid supply source.

[0016] Furthermore, it is preferable that the first pipe 21 is provided with a valve (valve 23) for adjusting the flow rate of the first liquid, as shown in Figure 1, etc. However, the valve 23 may be omitted. Even in this case, as described above for the pump, it is possible to adjust the flow rate of the first liquid flowing through the first pipe 21 by providing a configuration for supplying liquid to the first pipe 21 from an external liquid supply source, and by forming a configuration that allows adjustment of the amount of liquid flowing into the first pipe 21.

[0017] (Second pipe) The second pipe 22 provided in the tank system 10A is not particularly limited as long as it has a structure that allows the liquid inside the tank 20 to flow out to the outside. The liquid inside the tank 20 will be referred to as the internal liquid. The liquid sent out to the outside from the second pipe 22 (the liquid flowing outwards through the second pipe 22) will be referred to as the second liquid. After the bubble generator 60 is activated, the internal liquid and the second liquid become a gas-liquid mixture, which will be described later. The second pipe 22 is a pipe that sends the liquid having a bubble concentration of a predetermined value or higher (the internal liquid which has become a gas-liquid mixture containing bubbles of a predetermined concentration or higher) to the outside of the tank. It is preferable that one end of the second pipe 22 (the liquid inlet) is immersed in the internal liquid stored in the tank 20. The second pipe 22 can be formed using piping or the like, similar to the first pipe 21.

[0018] Preferably, the second pipe 22 is provided with a pump (pump 24) for adjusting the flow rate of the second liquid (the amount sent from the internal liquid to the second pipe 22). However, the pump 24 may be omitted. Even in this case, by providing a configuration such that the pressure outside the second pipe 22 is lower than the pressure inside the second pipe 22 (for example, a configuration that increases the pressure inside the tank 20), the second liquid can be sent inside the second pipe 22 in the direction of arrow F2.

[0019] Furthermore, it is preferable that the second pipe 22 is provided with a valve (discharge adjustment valve (not shown)) for adjusting the flow rate of the second liquid. However, the discharge adjustment valve may be omitted. Even in this case, as described above for the pump 24, a configuration is provided for flowing liquid into the second pipe 22 (such as a configuration that increases the internal pressure of the tank 20), and it is possible to adjust the amount of the second liquid flowing through the second pipe 22 according to the adjustment of the internal pressure of the tank 20.

[0020] (Concentration adjustment structure) The tank system 10A preferably has a concentration adjustment structure 50. In the example shown in Figure 1, the concentration adjustment structure 50 is exemplified as a concentration adjustment structure 50A having a second pipe 22 and a third pipe 25, and a connection between the second pipe 22 and the third pipe 25. Next, the explanation of the concentration adjustment structure 50 will continue using the concentration adjustment structure 50A as an example.

[0021] As described above, the concentration adjustment structure 50A has a second pipe 22 and a third pipe 25, and also has a junction between the second pipe 22 and the third pipe 25.

[0022] (Third pipe) The concentration adjustment structure 50A is provided with a third pipe 25. The third pipe 25 can be formed using piping or the like, similar to the first pipe 21. The third pipe 25 is, for example, a pipe structure connected to the second pipe 22 outside the tank 20. Liquid from outside the tank 20 flows through the third pipe 25. In this specification, the liquid from outside the tank 20 flowing through the third pipe 25 is referred to as the third liquid. In the example in Figure 1, the third pipe 25 is a pipe that supplies the third liquid. The third liquid is a different liquid from the second liquid. The third liquid flows through the third pipe 25 toward the connection between the second pipe 22 and the third pipe 25. The third liquid then merges with the second liquid at the connection between the second pipe 22 and the third pipe 25. When the third liquid and the second liquid merge, they are mixed. The mixture of the third liquid and the second liquid flows out of the tank system 10A as the discharged liquid.

[0023] In the example shown in Figure 1, only the portion of the third pipe 25 connected to the second pipe 22 (one end) is shown. The third pipe 25 may also be connected to the second pipe 22 at one end (downstream) and to the first pipe 21 at the other end (upstream) (not shown). In this case, at least a portion of the liquid flowing through the first pipe 21 will flow into the third pipe 25. In other words, at least a portion of the liquid flowing through the first pipe 21 will also be the liquid of the third pipe.

[0024] Alternatively, the third pipe 25 may be connected to the second pipe 22 at one end (downstream) and to the first liquid supply source at the other end (upstream) (not shown).

[0025] In addition to the above, the third pipe 25 may be connected to the second pipe 22 at one end (downstream) and to a liquid source different from either the first or second liquid at the other end (upstream) (not shown).

[0026] The concentration adjustment structure 50A has a structure for adjusting the flow rate ratio between the second liquid and the third liquid. In the example shown in Figure 1, a pump 24 and a valve 26 are provided as the structure for adjusting the flow rate ratio. The pump 24 adjusts the amount (flow rate) of the second liquid flowing through the second pipe 22. The valve 26 adjusts the amount (liquid volume) of the third liquid flowing through the third pipe 25. By adjusting the amounts of the second liquid and the third liquid, it is possible to adjust the flow rate ratio between the second liquid and the third liquid. Note that the example in Figure 1 is just one example, and a control valve may be provided at the connection point between the second pipe and the third pipe. The control valve is a valve that adjusts the flow rate ratio between the second liquid and the third liquid.

[0027] Furthermore, if the concentration adjustment structure 50B described later is used as the concentration adjustment structure 50, the third tube 25 described above may be omitted.

[0028] (liquid) The internal liquid, first liquid, second liquid, and third liquid are not particularly limited, and examples include solvents and solutions, dispersions, and mixtures of compounds dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent. Examples of solvents include water and organic solvents. Examples of water include tap water, well water, seawater, pure water, ultrapure water, and water that has passed through a supercritical state (supercritical water). Examples of organic solvents include alcohols and oils. Examples of compounds dissolved in the solvent include inorganic compounds such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and covalent oxygen molecules, inorganic electrolytes such as sodium chloride, aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, alcohols, peptides, and various organic compounds such as fatty acids. When no distinction is made between the internal liquid, first liquid, second liquid, and third liquid, the internal liquid, first liquid, second liquid, and third liquid used in the tank system may be collectively referred to simply as the "liquid used." The liquid that is intended to contain bubbles may be referred to as the "raw material liquid." In the example shown in Figure 1, the first and third liquids are preferably raw material liquids. The internal liquid and the second liquid are gas-liquid mixtures obtained by adding gas to the raw material liquid. Any of the first liquid, third liquid, internal liquid, and second liquid can be used as liquids.

[0029] The raw material liquid may be determined according to the intended use of the gas-liquid mixture containing fine bubbles or ultrafine bubbles.

[0030] The applications of gas-liquid mixtures may be determined according to their effects. Effects of incorporating fine bubbles or ultrafine bubbles into a liquid include effects on solubility, separation, cleaning, fluidity, and improvement of medical and diagnostic quality. Effects on solubility due to bubbles include improved effectiveness of ozonated water, improved miscibility of oil and additives, accelerated emulsification of oil and water, oxygen enrichment of liquid fertilizers by incorporating oxygen-containing bubbles, and improvement of water quality for fish farming. Effects on separation due to bubbles include purification of contaminated soil and water purification. Effects on cleaning include improved cleaning of precision equipment, household appliances, food ingredients, and the human body, and improved cleaning performance in cleaning processes on production lines. Effects on efficiency due to bubbles include fuel production by accelerating the emulsification of oil (waste oil, etc.) and water with bubbles. Effects on improving the quality of medical and diagnostic quality due to bubbles include improved effectiveness of ultrasound therapy by using ultrasound and bubbles in combination.

[0031] Therefore, the raw material liquid can be defined as the liquid used to generate a gas-liquid mixture that achieves various effects through bubbles. More specifically, examples of raw material liquids include the various types of water mentioned above, such as tap water, well water, seawater, pure water, ultrapure water, and water that has passed through a supercritical state (supercritical water). Furthermore, examples of water that can be used as a raw material liquid include water that is present in water sources such as spring water, reservoirs, and lakes before water purification treatment, and water that has undergone water purification treatment. In addition, examples of raw material liquids include liquids used in food products such as juices and sugar water, cleaning solutions used in hospitals, liquids used in medical applications such as physiological saline, and various liquid fuels such as gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, and jet fuel.

[0032] (Bubble generator) The bubble generator 60 is configured to generate bubbles up to a predetermined concentration in the liquid inside the tank 20 (internal liquid) that it has drawn in, while simultaneously generating and discharging bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm.

[0033] The bubble generator 60 includes a bubble generating section 30, an intake pipe 31 that draws the internal liquid from the tank 20 into the bubble generating section 30, and an exhaust pipe 32 that discharges the internal liquid that has passed through the bubble generating section 30 into the space of the tank 20. The bubble generator 60 is positioned floating on or near the surface of the internal liquid in the tank 20, but this is just one example. It is preferable that a pump 33 is provided in the intake pipe 31 and / or the exhaust pipe 32. The pump 33 is configured to adjust the amount of internal liquid passing through the bubble generating section 30. In addition to the pump 33, a valve (not shown) may also be provided. By providing a valve, it is possible to more reliably adjust the amount of liquid used passing through the bubble generating section 30 according to the opening and closing of the valve (the degree to which the valve is open). The intake pipe 31 and the exhaust pipe 32 may be composed of piping or the like, similar to the first pipe 21 described above.

[0034] (Bubble generation area) The bubble generating unit 30 generates bubbles in the internal liquid that is sent to the bubble generating unit 30 from the suction pipe 31. In the example in Figure 1, the internal liquid (internal liquid drawn into the suction pipe 31) that is poured from the tank 20 into the suction pipe 31 passes through the bubble generating unit 30, then through the discharge pipe 32 and is returned to the tank 20. After passing through the bubble generating unit 30, the internal liquid is a gas-liquid mixture in which bubbles (bubbles generated in the bubble generating unit 30) are dispersed in the liquid component. If the internal liquid is already a gas-liquid mixture when it is sent to the suction pipe 31, then bubbles will be added to the internal liquid. Therefore, by passing the internal liquid through the bubble generating device 60, the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid can be increased.

[0035] (bubbles) At least some of the bubbles generated in the bubble generation unit 30 have a diameter of less than 1 μm (the average bubble diameter of at least some of the bubbles is less than 1 μm). However, it is preferable that all of the bubbles generated in the bubble generation unit 30 are less than 1 μm (the average bubble diameter of all generated bubbles is less than 1 μm). Bubbles with a diameter of 100 μm or less are sometimes referred to as fine bubbles. Bubbles with a diameter of 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less are sometimes referred to as microbubbles. Bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm are sometimes referred to as ultrafine bubbles or nanobubbles. The term "fine bubble" is used to indicate a concept that encompasses microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles. It is preferable that at least some of the bubbles generated in the bubble generation unit 30 are ultrafine bubbles. For example, at least some of the bubbles generated by the bubble generation unit 30 for the liquid used are ultrafine bubbles. Furthermore, if the liquid used is a gas-liquid mixture containing bubbles, the liquid is in a state where ultrafine bubbles are dispersed within the liquid. It should be noted that this does not exclude the possibility of the gas-liquid mixture containing bubbles other than ultrafine bubbles; the gas-liquid mixture may also contain microbubbles, etc.

[0036] (Components within the bubbles) The gaseous components within the bubbles generated in the bubble generation unit 30 are not particularly limited. The gaseous components within the bubbles generated in the bubble generation unit 30 may be gas taken into the bubble generation unit 30 from the outside, or gaseous components dissolved in the liquid sent to the bubble generation unit 30. Examples of gaseous components dissolved in a liquid include, for example, dissolved carbon dioxide dissolved in water, dissolved oxygen, dissolved nitrogen, etc., if the liquid is water.

[0037] (Bubble diameter) The bubble diameter refers to the diameter of the bubble. The average bubble diameter refers to the average value of the bubble diameter. The average bubble diameter can be determined from the bubble diameter distribution. The average bubble diameter of some bubbles can be determined from the bubble diameter distribution. The bubble diameter can be determined when measuring the bubble diameter distribution. The bubble diameter and average bubble diameter can be determined using techniques for measuring the bubble diameter distribution (particle size distribution) of bubbles contained in a gas-liquid mixture. Examples of techniques for measuring the bubble diameter distribution (particle size distribution) include methods using laser diffraction / scattering particle size distribution analyzers. As a method for determining the bubble diameter distribution, particle size analysis - particle trajectory analysis method (particle tracking analysis method) in accordance with JIS Z 8829:2021 can also be mentioned.

[0038] (Bubble concentration) Bubble concentration (bubbles / cm³) of the gas-liquid mixture generated in the bubble generation unit 30 3 ) is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of effectively exhibiting the function of the gas-liquid mixture containing bubbles having a predetermined bubble diameter, the bubble concentration for bubbles smaller than 1 μm in the gas-liquid mixture should be 20 million bubbles / cm³. 3 Preferably, the number is 50 million / cm² or higher. 3 It is more preferable that the number be 60 million / cm². 3 It is even more preferable that the liquid contains 20 million bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm per cm. 3 If the above conditions are met, the gas-liquid mixture can exhibit a fouling prevention effect. The liquid contains 50 million bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm per cm². 3 The above conditions allow for effective cleaning of biofilms (aggregates formed by microorganisms on solid surfaces). The liquid contains 60 million bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm per cm². 3The above conditions can further enhance these effects. The description regarding the bubble concentration of the gas-liquid mixture generated in the bubble generation unit 30 also applies to the bubble concentration of the internal liquid in the tank 20. Furthermore, the bubble concentration of the internal liquid in the tank 20 can also be increased to the same level as the bubble concentration of the gas-liquid mixture described above by passing the internal liquid through the bubble generation device 60. Therefore, the effects obtained when the gas-liquid mixture meets the above bubble concentration range can also be achieved for the internal liquid in the tank 20.

[0039] The upper limit of the bubble concentration in the gas-liquid mixture generated in the bubble generation unit 30 is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of ease of stable bubble generation, the upper limit of the bubble concentration in the gas-liquid mixture is 5 billion bubbles / cm³. 3 It is preferable that this is the case. The bubble concentration can be determined using the methods exemplified above for determining the bubble diameter and average bubble diameter of the bubbles.

[0040] (Potential of bubbles) It is preferable that the bubbles contained in the gas-liquid mixture have a negative potential. The negative potential charge state of the bubbles can be achieved by the bubble generator 60 described later being a cavitation-type bubble generator (for example, bubble generator 100), and can be achieved according to the magnitude of the static electricity due to cavitation in the liquid fluid within the liquid flow path of the bubble generator 100 and friction of the fluid within the flow path (friction between the members forming the flow path and the bubbles). The magnitude of the negative potential can be determined according to various conditions such as the diameter of the bubbles.

[0041] (Manufacturing of gas-liquid mixtures) As described above, a gas-liquid mixture can be produced, for example, by passing the liquid component that serves as the raw material for the gas-liquid mixture (the internal liquid in the example in Figure 1) through the bubble generator 60.

[0042] The bubble generator 60 is configured to generate fine bubbles, such as ultrafine bubbles, in a liquid and to form a gas-liquid mixture in which the bubbles are dispersed in the liquid. Examples of such bubble generators 60 include devices (bubble generators) that apply various bubble generation mechanisms as needed, such as cavitation type, micropore type, ultrasonic type, swirling flow type, static mixer type, venturi type, steam condensation type, pressurized dissolution type, gas-liquid mixing shear type, and electrolysis type.

[0043] However, from the viewpoint of efficiently generating fine bubbles such as ultrafine bubbles having a negative potential as bubbles contained in the gas-liquid mixture, it is preferable to prepare the gas-liquid mixture using a cavitation type device as the bubble generator 60. As a cavitation type device, a device like the one shown in the following "Example of a Bubble Generator" can be used. Next, an example of a bubble generator applicable as the bubble generator 60 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of the bubble generator 100 applicable as the bubble generator 60 in Figure 1.

[0044] (An example of a bubble generator) As shown in Figure 2, the bubble generator 100 includes a receiving section 110 for receiving liquid raw material components (referred to as raw material liquid), a bubble generation mechanism 120 for generating a gas-liquid mixture in which bubbles are dispersed in the raw material liquid supplied from the receiving section 110, and a discharge section 130 for discharging the gas-liquid mixture. When the bubble generator 100 is applied as the bubble generator 60 shown in the example in Figure 1, the receiving section 110 corresponds to the intake pipe 31, and the discharge section 130 corresponds to the discharge pipe 32. The raw material liquid supplied from the receiving section 110 is the liquid that flows into the bubble generator 100 from the intake pipe 31. The gas-liquid mixture that flows out from the discharge section 130 is the liquid that continues to flow toward the discharge pipe 32. The bubble generation mechanism 120 of the bubble generator 100 corresponds to the bubble generation section 30 that constitutes the bubble generator 60.

[0045] (Bubble generation mechanism) The bubble generation mechanism 120 has a flow channel forming body 121 and a plurality of impactors 124. The flow channel forming body 121 has a liquid flow channel 122 on its inner circumferential surface 121A side and a throttling structure 123. The throttling structure 123 has a first portion 123A in which the cross-sectional diameter of the inner circumferential surface 121A (the cross-sectional diameter determined by the cross-section of a plane whose normal direction is assumed to be the longitudinal direction of the liquid flow channel 122) decreases from the upstream end 125 (inlet) to the downstream end 126 (outlet). The throttling structure 123 also has a second portion 123B in which the cross-sectional diameter of the inner circumferential surface 121A increases from the upstream end 125 to the downstream end 126. The first portion 123A is located upstream of the second portion 123B. The plurality of impactors 124 protrude inward from the inner circumferential surface 121A of the flow channel forming body 121 and are adjacent to each other across a predetermined region. The multiple impactors 124 are positioned between (or at the boundary between) the first portion 123A and the second portion 123B in the longitudinal direction of the liquid flow path 122. However, this does not prohibit the formation of the multiple impactors 124 in either the first portion 123A or the second portion 123B. The multiple impactors 124 form a gap between their tips that narrows the flow path. The bubble generation mechanism 120 is configured such that the flow path forming body 121 can pass the raw material liquid from the upstream end 125 to the downstream end 126. As mentioned above, it is preferable that a pump (not shown) for supplying the raw material liquid is installed on the upstream and / or downstream side of the bubble generation device 100. This pump supplies the raw material liquid to the bubble generation device 100 so that the water pressure, flow velocity, and water volume of the raw material liquid are each above predetermined values. In the bubble generation device 100, the concentration of fine bubbles (such as microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles) generated differs depending on the pressure, flow velocity, and flow rate of the liquid flowing through the liquid flow path 122. In the bubble generator 100, high-concentration fine bubbles can be generated in the liquid by increasing at least one of the liquid pressure, flow velocity, and flow rate.

[0046] (Manufacturing of gas-liquid mixtures) A bubble mixture is obtained using the bubble generator 100 as shown below. The raw material liquid is injected as a liquid fluid from the receiving section 110 of the bubble generator 100. The receiving section 110 corresponds to the suction pipe 31 that constitutes the bubble generator 60 as described above. The receiving section 110 is connected to the upstream end 125 (inlet) of the bubble generation mechanism 120, and the raw material liquid flows into the bubble generation mechanism 120 from the upstream end 125. In the bubble generation mechanism 120, the flow velocity of the raw material liquid is increased as it moves through the first section 123A of the throttling structure 123 in a direction generally from the upstream end 125 to the downstream end 126 (arrow LF direction). It continues to proceed towards the downstream end 126 by passing through the gap formed at the position of the impactor 124. At this time, a cavitation effect occurs in the raw material liquid, and components dissolved in the raw material liquid (e.g., dissolved oxygen) are converted into bubbles. The size of the bubbles is adjusted according to conditions such as the size of the gap and the structure of the impactor 124. In this way, a gas-liquid mixture is generated as a liquid in which bubbles with a desired bubble diameter are dispersed in the raw material liquid. The generated gas-liquid mixture can flow out from the downstream end 126 via the discharge section 130. The discharge section 130 corresponds to the discharge pipe 32 that constitutes the bubble generator 60.

[0047] The bubbles dispersed in the gas-liquid mixture obtained by the bubble generator 100 are formed by cavitation in the raw material liquid, as described above, and are gaseous components associated with the cavitation of components dissolved in the raw material liquid. In such bubbles, vaporized oxygen (dissolved oxygen) and vaporized nitrogen (dissolved nitrogen) that were dissolved in the water constituting the raw material liquid are included in the bubbles. The gaseous components in the bubbles may be determined according to the desired effect of the gas-liquid mixture. For example, if the gas-liquid mixture is intended to remove biofilm, it is preferable that the bubbles contain little oxygen. It is preferable that the bubble generator 100 be equipped with a gas supply structure, taking into consideration the enhancement of the desired effect.

[0048] (Control device) It is preferable that the tank system 10A is provided with a control device 40. The control device 40 controls the circulation of the internal liquid by the bubble generator 60. The circulation of the internal liquid by the bubble generator 60 means that the internal liquid in the tank 20 passes through each part that constitutes the bubble generator 60 (the internal liquid flows from the tank 20 in the order of the suction pipe 31, the bubble generation unit 30, and the discharge pipe 32) and is returned to the tank 20. As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the control device 40 has a control unit 45. It is preferable that the control device 40 has a storage unit 47. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3B, the control device 40 may further have a display unit and an input unit, as will be described later. Figures 3A and 3B are schematic block diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the control device.

[0049] Preferably, the control device 40 is configured to control the flow state of the liquid used in the tank system 10A, in addition to circulating the internal liquid by the bubble generator 60 (controlling the amount of the first liquid flowing into the tank 20 and the amount of the second liquid flowing out of the tank 20).

[0050] (Flow meter) In the tank system 10A shown in the example in Figure 1, a first flow meter 41 and a second flow meter 42 are provided. The tank system 10A is further provided with a time measuring unit 43.

[0051] (First flow meter) In the tank system 10A, as shown in Figure 1, a first flow meter 41 is provided. The first flow meter 41 detects the flow rate (inflow rate) of the liquid flowing through the first pipe 21. The first flow meter 41 is not particularly limited, and may be a sensor with a drive method such as an electromagnetic or impeller type. The drive method of the first flow meter 41 is the same for the second flow meter 42, which will be described later. In the example in Figure 1, the first flow meter 41 is wired to the control unit 45, which will be described later, so that it can transmit signals (electrical signals, etc.) via wiring, but this is just one example, and they may be connected wirelessly so that signals can be transmitted wirelessly. The same applies to the connection between the control unit 45 and the object to be connected, which can be wired or wireless, as well as the connection between the second flow meter 42 and the control unit 45, and the connection of the control unit 45 to the valves, pumps (valve 23 and pump 24) and time measuring unit 43 (time measuring instrument). Examples of flow meters for the first flow measuring instrument, and for the second flow measuring instrument described later, include ultrasonic flow meters, electromagnetic flow meters, Karman vortex flow meters, and differential pressure flow meters.

[0052] (Second flow meter) In the tank system 10A, a second flow meter 42 is provided. In the example shown in Figure 1, the second flow meter 42 detects the flow rate (inflow rate) of the liquid flowing through the second pipe 22. The driving method for the second flow meter 42 may be the same as that described in the explanation of the first flow meter 41.

[0053] (Time measurement section) In the tank system 10A, it is preferable that a time measurement unit 43 is provided as the measurement unit 46. As shown in the example in Figure 1, the time measurement unit 43 can be a timer or the like provided in the control device 40. The time measurement unit 43 is configured to measure the time (duration) during which the internal liquid is continuously sent to the bubble generation unit 30. In the example in Figure 1, the duration can be specified as the operating duration of the pump 33 that sends the internal liquid towards the bubble generation unit 30. Therefore, in the example in Figure 1, the time measurement unit 43 is configured to measure the operating duration of the pump 33. In the example in Figure 1, this operating duration corresponds to the time during which the circulation of the internal liquid continues. In the example in Figure 1, the time measurement unit 43 was provided in the control device 40, but it may be provided separately from the control device 40.

[0054] (Control Unit) The control unit 45 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. When performing AI (Artificial Intelligence) calculations, the control unit 45 may have a processing chip such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The control unit 45 performs calculations based on various signals and programs received from the measurement unit 46. The control unit 45 transmits signals to control the operation of each part based on the results of the performed calculations. The control unit 45 controls the start and / or stop of the circulation of the internal liquid by the bubble generator 60 based on the first flow rate and the second flow rate. The start of the circulation of the internal liquid may be referred to as the start of circulation. The stop of the circulation of the internal liquid may be referred to as the stop of circulation. In this specification, the start and / or stop of the circulation of the internal liquid shall be referred to as liquid circulation control.

[0055] Specifically, liquid circulation control by the control unit 45 can be achieved by controlling the operation of various parts of the bubble generator 60, such as the pump 33. In the example shown in Figure 1, the control unit 45 starts the operation of the pump 33. In this case, the circulation of the internal liquid is started. The control unit 45 also stops the operation of the pump 33. In this case, the circulation of the internal liquid is stopped. If the bubble generator 60 is equipped with a valve to control the flow of liquid, it is preferable that the control unit 45 can also control the operation of the valve.

[0056] (Storage part) The control device 40 is preferably provided with a storage unit 47. The storage unit 47 is composed of, for example, a hard disk drive, a silicon disk drive, etc. The storage unit 47 stores various programs, data tables, etc., for executing calculations to control the operation of each part by the control unit 45.

[0057] An example of liquid circulation control by the control unit 45 is described below.

[0058] (Liquid circulation control) The control unit 45 receives information on the first flow rate measured by the first flow meter 41 and information on the second flow rate measured by the second flow meter 42. Based on the first and second flow rates, the control unit 45 determines the amount of internal liquid in the tank 20. Based on the initial value of the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in the tank 20 and the amount of internal liquid replacement in the tank 20, the control unit 45 determines the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid stored in the tank 20. The amount of internal liquid in the tank 20 can be determined as follows. The storage unit 47 stores a program and data table that calculates the amount of internal liquid in the tank 20 based on the first and second flow rates. The control unit 45 reads the program and data table data from the storage unit 47 as needed. Based on the program and data table, the control unit 45 determines the amount of internal liquid in the tank 20. The concentration of bubbles can also be determined in the same way as the amount of internal liquid in the tank 20.

[0059] The control unit 45 then determines whether the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid in the tank 20 is decreasing or increasing. Depending on the predetermined bubble concentration, the control unit 45 sends a signal to start the circulation of the internal liquid in the tank 20 or a signal to stop the circulation of the internal liquid. When the bubble generator 60 receives these signals, the inflow of the internal liquid into the bubble generating unit 30 starts or stops. The start or stop of the inflow of the internal liquid into the bubble generating unit 30 can be achieved, for example, by starting or stopping the operation of the pump 33.

[0060] Regarding the control of sending signals to start or stop the circulation of the internal fluid, one example of such control is shown below.

[0061] (First example of control) The control unit 45 sends a signal to start circulating the internal liquid if the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid decreases based on the "concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid" determined over a predetermined time. The control unit 45 sends a signal to stop circulating the internal liquid if the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid increases or if the concentration of bubbles remains constant. As a result, the control unit 45 can control the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid in the tank to remain approximately constant based on the "concentration of bubbles in the second liquid" determined over a predetermined time.

[0062] (Second example of control) The control unit 45 sends a signal to start circulating the internal liquid when the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid falls below a predetermined concentration. The control unit sends a signal to stop circulating the internal liquid when the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid exceeds a predetermined concentration or when the concentration of bubbles remains at a predetermined concentration. This makes it possible for the control unit 45 to control the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid in the tank 20 to approximately a predetermined concentration, based on a predetermined bubble concentration.

[0063] (Third example of control) If the control device 40 has a time measurement unit 43, the control unit 45 may be configured to control the time for which the circulation of the internal liquid continues. Controlling the time for which the circulation of the internal liquid continues can be achieved, for example, as shown below.

[0064] The time measurement unit 43 measures a first time during which the internal liquid circulation continues. The control unit 45 receives the measured information of the first time. The control unit 45 further determines a second time, which is the time during which the circulation continues, based on the first flow rate, the second flow rate, and the first time. At this time, the second time can be determined as "the time until the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid reaches a predetermined concentration" (concentration arrival time). The second time can be specified as follows. A program or data table for calculating the concentration arrival time is pre-stored in the storage unit 47. The control unit 45 reads the program or data from the storage unit 47 as needed. The control unit 45 specifies the second time (concentration arrival time) based on the read program or data. The program for calculating the concentration arrival time may be a program that calculates the relationship between "the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in the tank 20" and "the time during which the circulation continues" based on the first flow rate, the second flow rate, and the first time.

[0065] The time measurement unit 43 transmits information about the second time to the control unit 45. The control unit 45 receives the information about the second time. The control unit 45 also sends a signal to stop the circulation of the internal liquid when the second time has elapsed. The bubble generator 60 receives the signal to stop the circulation of the internal liquid. The pump 33 of the bubble generator 60 then stops operating. In this way, the control unit 45 can stop the circulation of the internal liquid when the set bubble concentration is reached. This makes it possible to control the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid in the tank 20 to approximately a predetermined concentration with greater precision.

[0066] [1-2 Action and Effects] Conventional technology used gas-liquid mixtures regardless of whether the bubbles in the mixture were in an unstable state or not. Therefore, there was room for improvement in conventional technology in suppressing fluctuations in the concentration of bubbles in the gas-liquid mixture intended for use for a desired purpose. In order to supply a gas-liquid mixture with adjusted bubble concentration to an external source, it is conceivable to adjust the bubble concentration in the gas-liquid mixture while measuring the bubble concentration in real time. However, in that case, the bubble concentration in the gas-liquid mixture is adjusted while the bubble concentration in the mixture is unstable. Therefore, there is a risk of fluctuations in the concentration of bubbles in the gas-liquid mixture.

[0067] According to the tank system of the present invention, since the gas-liquid mixture is formed as the internal liquid in the tank, the bubbles tend to stabilize while the gas-liquid mixture is temporarily contained in the tank. Furthermore, according to the present invention, the internal liquid can be supplied to the outside in a state where the bubbles in the gas-liquid mixture have stabilized. Moreover, according to the present invention, a second liquid, which is a liquid that flows from the internal liquid into a second pipe, and a third liquid, which is a liquid from outside the tank, can be mixed. This makes it possible to adjust the concentration of bubbles contained in the gas-liquid mixture that constitutes the internal liquid. And, in the present invention, since the bubbles contained in the second liquid can be stabilized, the concentration of bubbles contained in the gas-liquid mixture supplied to the outside can be stably adjusted.

[0068] [1-3 Variations] (Variation 1) In the tank system 10 of the present invention, as shown in Figure 3B, an input unit 70 may be provided in addition to the control device 40 of the tank system 10A described above. This embodiment will be referred to as Modification 1 of the tank system.

[0069] The input unit 70 is configured to accept input of specification information that specifies the concentration of bubbles contained in the liquid (external supply liquid) discharged to the outside from the second pipe 22. The input unit 70 may be a digital information input unit or an analog information input unit. The external supply liquid is the second liquid, or a mixture of the second liquid and the third liquid.

[0070] In the modified tank system 1, the mixing ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid, which are joined in the concentration adjustment structure 50, is determined based on the specified information input to the input unit 70. Determining the mixing ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid can be achieved, for example, by the control unit 45 performing the following control. The control unit 45 receives the specified information input to the input unit 70. Furthermore, the control unit 45 calculates the mixing ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid corresponding to the specified information based on the received specified information and the concentration value of the bubbles contained in the internal liquid stored in the tank 20. Then, the control unit 45 controls the flow rate ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid based on the calculated mixing ratio information. Specifically, for example, in the example in Figure 1, the control unit 45 transmits a signal to control the pump 24 and valve 26 of the concentration adjustment structure 50. The concentration adjustment structure 50 receives the signal to control the pump 24 and valve 26 from the control unit 45. Then, the operation of the pump 24 and valve 26 is adjusted according to the content of the signal. The control unit 45 may also correct the mixing ratio according to the concentration of bubbles in the third liquid if bubbles are present in the third liquid.

[0071] According to Modification 1 of the tank system 10A, based on the specified information input to the input unit 70, an external supply liquid corresponding to the specified information can be obtained. In the example shown in Figure 3B, the input unit 70 was provided in the control device 40, but it may be provided separately from the control device 40. The same applies to the display unit 80 shown in Figure 3B, which will be described later.

[0072] (Modification 2) In the tank system 10 of the present invention, as shown in Figure 3B, a display unit 80 may be provided in addition to the control device 40 of the tank system 10A described above. This embodiment will be referred to as modified example 2 of the tank system.

[0073] The display unit 80 is configured to allow recognition of predetermined information. The display unit 80 may be a dial-type channel rotation structure, a liquid crystal display panel structure, or a touch panel structure. Examples of predetermined information include warning information. If the display unit 80 is a touch panel structure, it may also have the functions of the input unit 70. The display unit 80 may also have a sound output mechanism, such as a speaker, as an output function.

[0074] According to Modification 2 of the Tank System 10A, information (warning information, etc.) corresponding to the bubble concentration of the internal liquid stored in the tank 20 is displayed on the display unit 80 according to the bubble concentration of the internal liquid stored in the tank 20. Display on the display unit 80 can be achieved, for example, by the control unit 45 performing the following control. For example, the control unit 45 calculates the bubble concentration of the internal liquid stored in the tank 20. When liquid is being discharged from the second pipe 22, the control unit 45 estimates the bubble concentration of the internal liquid stored in the tank 20 from the flow rate of the liquid supplied from the first pipe 21, the amount of liquid in the tank 20, the flow rate of the liquid discharged from the second pipe 22, and information regarding the operation of the bubble generator 60. The control unit 45 determines whether the calculated bubble concentration of the internal liquid is below a predetermined value. The control unit 45 determines that "the calculated bubble concentration of the internal liquid is not below a predetermined value." In this case, the control unit 45 does not send a signal to display warning information on the display unit. The control unit 45 determines that "the calculated bubble concentration of the internal liquid falls below a predetermined bubble concentration." In this case, the control unit 45 transmits a signal to the display unit to display warning information. The display unit 80 receives the signal to display warning information and displays the warning information on its screen. The display unit 80 may also emit a warning sound as part of the warning information using its sound function. Furthermore, the way in which the warning information is issued may be multi-stage, and examples of warnings that may be issued include a warning to alert the user before the bubble concentration falls below a specified value, and a warning issued when the bubble concentration falls below a specified value.

[0075] Furthermore, the amount of internal liquid stored inside the tank 20 may be measured by a sensor inside the tank 20, and a warning may be issued if it falls below a predetermined amount. In addition, the control unit 45 may estimate the amount of internal liquid stored inside the tank 20 from the flow rate of liquid supplied from the first pipe 21 and the flow rate of liquid discharged from the second pipe 22.

[0076] With this configuration, it becomes easy to maintain the amount of internal liquid stored inside the tank 20 above a certain value. When the amount of internal liquid is above a certain value, even when the internal liquid is discharged from the second pipe, variations in the bubbles contained in the internal liquid are less likely to occur, and the second liquid can be supplied to the outside with a stable bubble concentration.

[0077] (Variation 3) In the tank system 10 of the present invention, a temperature measuring instrument (not shown) may be provided in the tank system 10A described above. An example of a temperature measuring instrument is a sensor configured to measure the temperature of the internal liquid in the tank 20. Such an embodiment will be referred to as Modification 3 of the tank system.

[0078] In Modification 3 of the tank system, it is preferable that a temperature control device (not shown) for adjusting the temperature of the tank 20 is provided. Examples of temperature control devices include refrigeration devices and heating devices. Furthermore, in Modification 3 of the tank system, it is preferable that a stirring device (not shown) for stirring the liquid inside the tank 20 is provided.

[0079] For example, in Modification 3 of the tank system, if a heating device capable of raising the temperature of the internal liquid in the tank is provided as a temperature control device, the heating device may be configured to apply heat to the tank until the temperature of the internal liquid in the tank 20 reaches a predetermined temperature, based on temperature information identified by a temperature measuring instrument. With this configuration, when the internal liquid in the tank (second liquid) is used as a cleaning liquid, the second liquid can be brought to a temperature suitable for cleaning. This improves the cleaning ability of the second liquid.

[0080] Furthermore, when liquid is being discharged from the second pipe 22, the control unit 45 may estimate the change in the temperature of the internal liquid stored inside the tank 20 based on information such as the flow rate of the liquid supplied from the first pipe 21, the amount of liquid in the tank 20, the flow rate of the liquid discharged from the second pipe 22, and the temperature of the internal liquid stored inside the tank 20. If the temperature of the internal liquid in the tank is likely to fall below a predetermined value, the control unit 45 may adaptively heat the tank using a heating device or the like, according to the flow rate of the liquid supplied from the first pipe 21, the amount of liquid in the tank 20, and the flow rate of the liquid discharged from the second pipe 22, to stably prevent the temperature from falling below a predetermined value.

[0081] Furthermore, in Modification 3 of the tank system, if the display unit 80 shown in Modification 2 described above is provided, the display unit 80 may display warning information regarding temperature or notify temperature warning information by sound. The display unit 80 provides a warning to alert the user before the temperature falls below a specified value suitable for washing, and a warning when the temperature falls below the specified value.

[0082] (Modification 4) In the tank system 10 of the present invention, a concentration measuring instrument (not shown) may be further provided in the tank system 10A described above. An example of a concentration measuring instrument is a bubble concentration sensor (not shown) for measuring the concentration of bubbles. The bubble concentration sensor is configured to measure the concentration of bubbles contained in the liquid inside the tank. Such an embodiment will be referred to as Modification 4 of the tank system.

[0083] In the modified tank system 4, it is preferable that a stirring device (not shown) for stirring the liquid inside the tank 20 is also provided.

[0084] In the modified tank system 4, the control unit 45 may be configured to send the internal liquid outwards from the second tube according to the bubble concentration measured by the concentration meter.

[0085] For example, in Modification 4 of the tank system, the bubble concentration is measured at predetermined time intervals using a concentration meter. The control unit 45 receives the measured bubble concentration information. The control unit 45 also determines whether the measured bubble concentration profile is approximately constant (it determines whether the difference between multiple consecutive bubble concentration measurements does not exceed a predetermined value). The control unit 45 determines that the bubble concentration profile is approximately constant. In this case, the control unit 45 sends a signal to allow the pump 24 to operate so that the internal liquid can be sent out from the second pipe. The control unit 45 determines that the bubble concentration profile is not approximately constant. In this case, the control unit 45 does not send a signal to allow the pump 24 to operate. With this configuration, the gas-liquid mixture, which is the internal liquid in the tank 20, can be sent out to the outside only when the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid in the tank 20 has stabilized more reliably.

[0086] (Variation 5) The tank system 10 of the present invention may employ a concentration adjustment structure 50B as the concentration adjustment structure 50, as shown in Figure 4 (referred to as tank system 10B in Figure 4). Tank system 10B has a structure in which the third pipe 25 is omitted in the tank system 10A described above, as shown in Figure 4. Such an embodiment will be referred to as modified example 4 of the tank system. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the tank system (modified example 5). In tank system 10B, the concentration adjustment structure 50B is composed of a combination of a bubble generator 60 and a valve 23. In the example of Figure 4, a time measurement unit 43 is provided separately from the control device 40, but this is just one example.

[0087] In the concentration adjustment structure 50B, for example, the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in tank 20, the amount of internal liquid in tank 20, and the flow rate of the first liquid are controlled. That is, the concentration of bubbles contained in the liquid to be discharged to the outside of the tank (discharged liquid) (target concentration) is compared with the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in tank 20. If the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in tank 20 is lower than the target concentration, the bubble generator 60 is operated until the concentration reaches the target concentration. At this time, it is preferable that the valve 23 is closed. If the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in tank 20 is higher than the target concentration, the bubble generator 60 is stopped and the valve 23 is opened to supply the first liquid into tank 20 until the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid reaches the target concentration. In the tank system 10B, it is preferable that the control unit 45 compares the (target concentration) with the concentration of bubbles contained in the internal liquid in tank 20. In this case, the control unit 45 controls the operation of the bubble generator 60 and the valve 23.

[0088] This allows the concentration of bubbles in the liquid discharged to the outside from the second pipe 22 to be controlled in the tank system 10B as well. However, from the viewpoint of more effectively utilizing the ability to stabilize the concentration of bubbles in the internal liquid stored in the tank 20, it is preferable that the concentration of bubbles is adjusted by the merging of the second liquid and the third liquid in the concentration adjustment structure 50A, as shown in the tank system 10A described above, rather than in the tank system 10B.

[0089] According to this specification, the following inventions can be understood. (A1) A tank for storing liquid, The tank includes a first pipe for supplying a first liquid from the outside, A bubble generator capable of generating bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm in the liquid inside the tank that has been drawn in, and discharging them, while generating the bubbles up to a predetermined concentration, A second pipe that sends the second liquid inside the tank, where the bubbles have reached the predetermined concentration, to the outside of the tank, A concentration adjustment structure that mixes the second liquid discharged from the second pipe with a third liquid outside the tank to adjust the concentration of the bubbles, A tank system equipped with the following features. (A2) In the tank system described in (A1) above, A first flow meter for measuring the first flow rate of the first liquid, A second flow meter for measuring the second flow rate of the second liquid, The system further comprises a control device for controlling the circulation of the liquid inside the tank by the bubble generating device, The control device includes a control unit that controls the start and / or stop of the circulation by the bubble generator based on the first flow rate and the second flow rate. Tank system. (A3) In the tank system described in (A2) above, The control device is The system has an input unit for inputting specification information that specifies the concentration of bubbles contained in the discharged liquid that is discharged to the outside of the tank via the concentration adjustment structure, Based on the specified information input to the input unit, the mixing ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid, which are combined in the concentration adjustment structure, is determined. Tank system. (A4) In the tank system described in (A2) or (A3) above, The control device has a time measuring unit that measures the first time during which the cycle continues, The control unit further determines a second time for continuing the circulation based on the first flow rate, the second flow rate, and the first time, and controls the circulation to stop when the second time has elapsed. Tank system. (A5) In the tank system described in any one of (A2) to (A4) above, The control device further includes a display unit configured to enable recognition of predetermined information, The information is displayed on the display unit according to the concentration of the bubbles in the liquid inside the tank. Tank system. (A6) In the tank system described in any one of (A1) to (A5) above, The device comprises a third pipe for supplying the third liquid, The third pipe has one end connected to the second pipe and the other end connected to the first pipe. Tank system. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 10A: Tank System 20: Tank 21: The first pipe 22: The second pipe 23: Valve 24: Pump 25: The third pipe 26: Valve 30: Bubble generation section 31:Suction pipe 32: Discharge pipe 33: Pump 40: Control device 41: First flow meter 42: Second flow meter 43: Time measurement unit 45: Control Unit 47: Storage section 50: Concentration adjustment structure 60: Bubble Generator 70: Input section 80:Display section 100: Bubble generator

Claims

1. A tank for storing liquid, The tank includes a first pipe for supplying a first liquid from the outside, A bubble generator capable of generating bubbles with a diameter of less than 1 μm in the liquid inside the tank that has been drawn in, and discharging them, while generating the bubbles up to a predetermined concentration, A second pipe that sends the second liquid inside the tank, where the bubbles have reached the predetermined concentration, to the outside of the tank, A concentration adjustment structure that mixes the second liquid discharged from the second pipe with the third liquid outside the tank to adjust the concentration of the bubbles, A tank system equipped with the following features.

2. In the tank system according to claim 1, A first flow meter for measuring the first flow rate of the first liquid, A second flow meter for measuring the second flow rate of the second liquid, The system further comprises a control device for controlling the circulation of the liquid inside the tank by the bubble generating device, The control device includes a control unit that controls the start and / or stop of the circulation by the bubble generator based on the first flow rate and the second flow rate. Tank system.

3. In the tank system according to claim 2, The control device is The system has an input unit for inputting specification information that specifies the concentration of bubbles contained in the discharged liquid that is discharged to the outside of the tank via the concentration adjustment structure, Based on the specified information input to the input unit, the mixing ratio of the second liquid and the third liquid, which are combined in the concentration adjustment structure, is determined. Tank system.

4. In the tank system according to claim 2, The control device has a time measuring unit that measures the first time during which the cycle continues, The control unit further determines a second time for continuing the circulation based on the first flow rate, the second flow rate, and the first time, and controls the circulation to stop when the second time has elapsed. Tank system.

5. In the tank system according to claim 2, The control device further includes a display unit configured to enable recognition of predetermined information, The information is displayed on the display unit according to the concentration of the bubbles in the liquid inside the tank. Tank system.

6. In the tank system according to claim 1 or 2, The device comprises a third pipe for supplying the third liquid, The third pipe has one end connected to the second pipe and the other end connected to the first pipe. Tank system.

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