Drying and sterilization apparatus and its control method

Abstract

The present invention provides a drying and sterilization apparatus and a control method therefor that can suitably sterilize and dry filters after washing. [Solution] The drying and sterilization apparatus 100a to e comprises a container 30, an ozone supply unit 40, and a blower 61. The container 30 houses a filter 10 so that the ozone gas supplied to the inside or the hot air circulating inside can pass through. The ozone supply unit 40 supplies ozone gas into the container 30. The blower 61 circulates hot air inside the container 30.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a drying and sterilizing apparatus for sterilizing and drying a filter after washing and a control method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] The filter used in an air conditioner may be removed after a certain period of use, subjected to a regeneration process of washing and drying, and then attached to the air conditioner again for reuse.

[0003] Since the used filter is exposed to various usage environments, high hygiene such as removal of attached bacteria is required in the regeneration process. Therefore, sterilization of the filter in the regeneration process is important.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-31162 (Patent Document 1) discloses a sterilization, deodorization, and drying apparatus using ozone gas capable of inactivating bacteria and viruses. In this sterilization, deodorization, and drying apparatus, articles such as dishes after washing are stored in the apparatus, and while drying is performed by warm air, ozone is injected in a high-temperature and high-humidity state for sterilization.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] On the other hand, filters used in air conditioners are often covered with wooden, metal, or resin frames. Because the resin material used to fix the filter softens at high temperatures, it becomes difficult to sterilize the filter at high temperatures (e.g., above 60°C), unlike items such as tableware. In addition, since there are many voids inside the filter, it is necessary to ventilate the air surface by applying a gas with sterilizing properties or hot air to ensure proper sterilization.

[0007] The sterilization, deodorization, and drying apparatus described in Patent Document 1 is intended for items such as dishes after washing, and no consideration has been given to how to sterilize and dry filters used in air conditioners.

[0008] This disclosure has been made to solve the aforementioned problems, and the object of this disclosure is to provide a drying and sterilization apparatus and a control method therefor that can suitably sterilize and dry a filter after washing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The drying and sterilization apparatus of this disclosure is a device for sterilizing and drying filters after washing. The filters are used in air conditioners. The drying and sterilization apparatus comprises a container, an ozone supplyer, and a blower. The container houses the filters so that ozone gas supplied to the inside or warm air circulating inside can pass through. The ozone supplyer supplies ozone gas into the container. The blower circulates warm air into the container after the supply of ozone gas by the ozone supplyer has finished.

[0010] Furthermore, the control method of this disclosure is a control method for a drying and sterilization apparatus that sterilizes and dries a filter after washing. The filter is used in an air conditioner. The drying and sterilization apparatus comprises a container, an ozone supplyer, and a blower. The container houses the filter so that ozone gas supplied to the inside or warm air circulating inside can pass through it. The ozone supplyer supplies ozone gas into the container. The blower circulates warm air into the container. The control method comprises the steps of controlling the supply of ozone gas into the container by the ozone supplyer, and, after the step of controlling the supply of ozone gas has been performed, controlling the circulation of warm air into the container by the blower.

[0011] According to the drying and sterilization apparatus and its control method, the filter is preferably sterilized by configuring the apparatus to allow ozone gas supplied by an ozone supplier to pass through the filter, which contains moisture after washing and maintains a constant humidity inside the container. Subsequently, the filter is preferably dried and sterilized by allowing warm air supplied by a blower to pass through the filter. Furthermore, the warm air can promote the decomposition of ozone gas inside the container. As a result, the washed filter can be preferably sterilized and dried. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to this disclosure, the filter can be suitably sterilized and dried after washing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a drying and sterilization apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a hardware configuration diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart of the process performed by the drying and sterilization apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of a drying and sterilization apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5]It is a diagram showing an outline of a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a hardware configuration diagram of a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart of processing executed by a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an outline of a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a modified example of a third embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an outline of a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a hardware configuration diagram of a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart of processing executed by a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart of processing executed by a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a first modified example of a first embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart of processing executed by a drying and sterilizing apparatus according to a second modified example of a first embodiment. [Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments will be described, but it has been planned from the beginning of the application to appropriately combine the configurations described in each embodiment. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0015] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a drying and sterilizing apparatus 100a according to a first embodiment. The drying and sterilizing apparatus 100a is an apparatus that sterilizes and dries the filter 10 after washing.

[0016] Filter 10 is used in an air conditioner. After the filter 10 removed from the air conditioner is washed and simply dehydrated with a detergent (for example, a detergent using a surfactant), it is set in a drying and sterilizing device 100a for sterilization and drying. That is, the surface of the filter 10 set in the drying and sterilizing device 100a is in a state of maintaining a certain humidity.

[0017] The drying and sterilizing device 100a includes a container 30, an ozone supplier 40, a heater 51, a blower 61, and a control unit 20 (see FIG. 2). The container 30 stores the filter 10. The ozone supplier 40 supplies ozone gas into the container 30. The heater 51 heats the gas in the container 30. The blower 61 circulates the gas heated by the heater 51 into the container 30 as warm air.

[0018] The control unit 20 of the drying and sterilizing device 100a can execute an ozone treatment process (also referred to as "sterilization control") and a drying process (also referred to as "drying control"). In the sterilization control, the control unit 20 controls the supply of ozone gas in the container 30 by the ozone supplier 40. In the drying control, the control unit 20 controls the circulation of warm air in the container 30 by the blower 61. In the present embodiment, after executing the sterilization control, the control unit 20 executes the drying control. Note that, without being limited thereto, the sterilization control and the drying control may be executed simultaneously (a modification example of FIG. 12 described later). Also, the sterilization control may be performed after the drying control, and then the drying control may be executed again (a modification example of FIG. 13 described later).

[0019] When the sterilization control starts, the ozone supplier 40 generates ozone gas and supplies the generated ozone gas into the container 30. In the sterilization control, the heater 51 is in the OFF state. The blower 61 is in the ON state, and the ozone gas supplied into the container 30 is sent to the filter 10 installed in the container 30. The filter 10 ventilates the ozone gas sent from the blower 61. Thereby, the sterilization treatment of the filter 10 is performed.

[0020] Once the sterilization process of filter 10 by the sterilization control is complete, the system switches to drying control. During drying control, the supply of ozone gas by the ozone supplier 40 is stopped. During sterilization control, heater 51 is turned ON, and the gas (including ozone gas) around heater 51 is heated. Blower 61 remains ON, and the gas (hot air) heated by heater 51 is sent to filter 10 installed inside container 30. Filter 10 passes the hot air sent from blower 61 through it. This dries filter 10.

[0021] The drying and sterilization device 100a is further equipped with an exhaust passage 80 and an intake port 31. During drying control, the exhaust passage 80 and the intake port 31 are opened. Outside air is taken in through the intake port 31, and a gas containing ozone gas and water vapor is discharged to the outside through the exhaust passage 80. The exhaust passage 80 is filled with an ozone decomposition material (not shown). Since the ozone gas flowing into the exhaust passage 80 is decomposed by the ozone decomposition material, a gas other than ozone gas (or a gas containing ozone gas at a low concentration that is safe to discharge to the outside) is discharged to the outside of the drying and sterilization device 100a.

[0022] The filter 10 consists of a ventilated surface 10a made of a sheet-like filter and a frame 10b (for example, made of wood, metal, or resin) that holds the ventilated surface 10a. In this embodiment, the container 30 houses the filter 10 so that ozone gas supplied to the inside or warm air circulating inside can pass through it.

[0023] For example, when the direction of airflow of ozone gas or warm air from the blower 61 is perpendicular to the ventilation surface 10a, the ozone gas or warm air can be most efficiently passed through the ventilation surface 10a. On the other hand, if the ventilation surface 10a is tilted 90 degrees from the above state, the ozone gas or warm air cannot be passed through the ventilation surface 10a. Thus, the filter 10 has permeability, and its ventilation efficiency (sterilization efficiency, drying efficiency) differs depending on the installation state (installation angle) of the filter 10. In addition, the resin material that fixes the filter softens at high temperatures, making it difficult to perform sterilization treatment of the filter 10 at high temperatures (for example, 60°C or higher) (the filter 10 does not have high heat resistance). For these reasons, in this embodiment, the temperature of the warm air passing through the filter 10 is controlled to be below 60°C. The control unit 20 controls the heater 51 or blower 61 so that the temperature of the warm air passing through the filter 10 is below 60°C.

[0024] Figure 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment. The drying and sterilization apparatus 100a includes an ozone concentration meter 91, a thermometer 92, a control unit 20, an ozone supply unit 40, a heater 51, and a blower 61. The control unit 20 includes a processor 21, a memory 22, and a communication interface 23. These are connected to each other via a bus 26 so that they can communicate with one another.

[0025] The processor is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 22 may be configured to include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and a storage device. The storage device is a non-volatile storage device, such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0026] The processor 21 loads programs stored in ROM or storage device into RAM and executes them to realize various functions of the drying and sterilization device 100a. The processor 21 performs sterilization control and drying control, etc. The ROM or storage device stores programs that describe the processing procedures of the drying and sterilization device 100a. The storage device stores data necessary for executing sterilization control and drying control.

[0027] RAM is the workspace used by the processor when executing a program, and it temporarily stores the program and data used to execute the program. The drying and sterilization device 100a transmits and receives various information between the ozone concentration meter 91, thermometer 92, ozone supply unit 40, heater 51 and blower 61 via the communication IF 23.

[0028] The ozone meter 91 measures the concentration of ozone gas inside the container 30. One or more ozone meters 91 can be installed at any location inside the container 30 where the concentration of ozone gas can be measured. For example, the ozone meter 91 may be installed near the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10, where air from the blower 61 blows.

[0029] The thermometer 92 measures the temperature inside the container 30. One or more thermometers 92 can be installed at any location inside the container 30 where the temperature can be measured. For example, the thermometer 92 may be installed near the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10, where it is exposed to air from the blower 61.

[0030] In sterilization control, the control unit 20 controls the amount of ozone gas supplied by the ozone supplier 40 based on the ozone concentration detected by the ozone concentration meter 91, so that the ozone concentration becomes a predetermined concentration suitable for sterilizing the filter 10. The execution time of the sterilization control should be set to a length that allows sufficient sterilization of the filter 10 by ozone gas.

[0031] In drying control, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51 and the blower 61 so that the temperature detected by the thermometer 92 is within a predetermined range suitable for drying the filter 10 (for example, controlling the output or ON / OFF of the heater 51 to control the temperature, and controlling the amount of air blown from the blower 61). The control unit 20 also controls the blower 61 to provide an airflow suitable for drying. The execution time of the drying control should be set to allow sufficient drying of the filter 10 with warm air.

[0032] Thus, during sterilization control, the heater 51 is not turned ON (it is turned OFF) as in drying control, so the temperature inside the container 30 is lower than during drying control (it becomes room temperature). It is undesirable to sterilize the filter 10 with ozone gas at high temperatures. Also, during sterilization control, the filter 10 is set in a wet state after washing. For this reason, during sterilization control, ozone gas is passed through the filter 10 at room temperature and high humidity.

[0033] On the other hand, during drying control, the heater 51 is turned ON, causing the temperature inside the container 30 to rise (becoming a high-temperature state), and the humidity to become lower compared to during sterilization control. Therefore, during drying control, hot air is blown through the filter 10 in a high-temperature and low-humidity state. Blowing hot air through the filter 10 not only dries the filter 10, but also promotes the sterilization effect of the filter 10 due to drying and the decomposition of ozone gas inside the container 30.

[0034] The following explanation will be given using a flowchart. Figure 3 is a flowchart of the process performed by the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment. This process may be configured to be performed, for example, based on a command from the operator of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a after the operator has set the washed filter 10 in the container 30.

[0035] Hereafter, it is assumed that the process is programmed to be controlled to the ozone treatment process (sterilization control) for a first period of time after the start of the process, and then to be controlled to the drying process (drying control) for a second period of time after the first period has ended.

[0036] When this process starts, the control unit 20 determines in S101 whether or not the ozone treatment process (sterilization control) is in progress. If the ozone treatment process is in progress (YES in S101: during the first time period), the control unit 20 proceeds to S102. If the ozone treatment process is not in progress (NO in S101: the first time period has ended), the control unit 20 proceeds to S105.

[0037] In S102, the control unit 20 closes the exhaust path 80. In S103, the control unit 20 controls the ozone supply unit 40 to supply ozone gas to a specified concentration. In S104, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 to send ozone gas and returns the process to S101. As a result, sterilization treatment with ozone gas is performed until the first time period ends.

[0038] In S105, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the drying process (drying control) is in progress. If the drying process is in progress (YES in S105: during the second time period), the control unit 20 proceeds to S106. If the drying process is not in progress (NO in S105: the second time period has ended), the control unit 20 terminates this process.

[0039] In S106, the control unit 20 opens the exhaust path 80. In S107, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51 to turn ON. In S108, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 to send hot air and returns the process to S105. As a result, the drying process with hot air is carried out until the second time period ends.

[0040] As described above, the drying and sterilization device 100a is a device for sterilizing and drying the filter 10 after washing. The filter 10 is used in an air conditioner. The drying and sterilization device 100a comprises a container 30, an ozone supply unit 40, and a blower 61. The container 30 houses the filter 10 so that ozone gas supplied to the inside or warm air circulating inside can pass through it. The ozone supply unit 40 supplies ozone gas into the container 30. The blower 61 circulates warm air into the container 30. In this embodiment, the blower 61 circulates warm air into the container 30 after the supply of ozone gas by the ozone supply unit 40 has finished.

[0041] The drying and sterilization apparatus 100a further comprises a control unit 20. The control unit 20 performs sterilization control, which controls the supply of ozone gas into the container 30 by the ozone supplier 40, and drying control, which controls the flow of warm air into the container 30 by the blower 61 after the sterilization control has been performed.

[0042] According to the drying and sterilization device 100a, the filter 10, which has become highly humid due to the moisture it has absorbed after washing, is subjected to suitable sterilization and deodorization by the ozone gas supplied by the ozone supplier 40 passing through the filter 10 inside the container 30. Subsequently, the filter 10 is subjected to suitable drying by the hot air supplied by the blower 61 passing through the filter 10, and the filter 10 is also sterilized by drying. Furthermore, the hot air can promote the decomposition of the ozone gas inside the container 30. As a result, the ozone gas, which is harmful to the human body and can be removed from the drying and sterilization device 100a, is decomposed by the rise in temperature, allowing the object to be removed quickly and effectively sterilized in a short time. With the above configuration, the washed filter 10 can be suitably sterilized and dried.

[0043] [Second Embodiment] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b according to the second embodiment. The drying and sterilization apparatus 100b according to the second embodiment further includes a shelf 70 as a placement member. The shelf 70 is a member for arranging the filter 10 inside the container 30 so that the hot air from the blower 61 hits the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10.

[0044] Except for the inclusion of a shelf 70 in the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b according to the second embodiment, its configuration is the same as that of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment. The hardware configuration and flowchart are also the same as those described in Figures 2 and 3. Below, we will explain the parts that differ in configuration from the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a, and omit the explanation of the parts that are the same as the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a.

[0045] The shelf 70 is a shelf provided inside the container 30 on which the filter 10 can be placed. The shelf 70 is configured such that, with the filter 10 placed on the shelf 70, the air from the blower 61 blowing from below hits the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10. For example, the shelf 70 may be configured in the shape of a ladder or a belt conveyor, and consist of two parallel rods and multiple rods connecting the two rods. Alternatively, the surface on which the filter 10 is placed may be configured in a mesh shape so that the air from the blower 61 hits the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10. Alternatively, the filter 10 may be sandwiched from both sides so that the air from the blower 61 hits the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10.

[0046] As described above, the drying and sterilization device 100b further includes a shelf 70 as a placement member. The shelf 70 is a member for positioning the filter 10 inside the container 30 so that the hot air from the blower 61 hits the air-permeable surface 10a of the filter 10. In this way, the hot air can be passed through the filter 10 more efficiently, so that the filter 10 after washing can be sterilized and dried more effectively.

[0047] [Third Embodiment] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100c according to the third embodiment. In addition to the exhaust path 80, the drying and sterilization apparatus 100c according to the third embodiment further includes an exhaust fan 63 and a circulation fan 62. The following describes the parts that differ in configuration from the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b according to the second embodiment, and omits the description of parts that are the same as the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b.

[0048] The circulation fan 62 circulates the gas inside the container 30. The exhaust path 80 discharges the gas inside the container 30 to the outside of the container 30. The exhaust fan 63 sends the gas inside the container 30 to the exhaust path 80.

[0049] The control unit 20 operates the circulation fan 62 when performing sterilization control, and switches from the operation of the circulation fan 62 to the operation of the exhaust fan 63 when switching to drying control, or it makes the amount of operation of the circulation fan 62 and the exhaust fan 63 different depending on whether sterilization control or drying control is being performed. As will be explained in more detail later, when the first mode is set, when sterilization control is performed, the gas inside the container 30 is circulated by the operation of the circulation fan 62, and when drying control is performed, the gas inside the container 30 is discharged by the operation of the exhaust fan 63. The explanation will proceed on the premise that the first mode is set.

[0050] Although the heater 51 and blower 61 are installed in different positions than in the drying and sterilization device 100b, their functions are the same as those in the drying and sterilization device 100b. In the third embodiment, the blower 61 may also function as part of the function of circulating the gas inside the container 30.

[0051] In Figure 5, during the sterilization operation, the ozone gas in the container 30 is circulated counterclockwise by operating the circulation fan 62. In the figure, the filter 10 installed on the right is sterilized by the ozone gas passing from bottom to top, and the filter 10 installed on the left is sterilized by the ozone gas passing from top to bottom. Note that the circulation fan 62 may be installed in a different position, or multiple circulation fans 62 may be used to circulate the ozone gas, as long as the ozone gas is circulated in the manner described above.

[0052] In this way, the supply of ozone gas from the ozone supplier 40 maintains a constant concentration of ozone gas in the container 30, while the operation of the circulation fan 62 causes the ozone gas to repeatedly pass through the filter 10.

[0053] When performing a drying operation, the ozone supply unit 40 and the circulation fan 62 are stopped. At this time, the heater 51 is turned ON and the blower 61 is operated. Furthermore, the intake port 31 and the exhaust path 80 are opened and the exhaust fan 63 is operated. This promotes the drying and sterilization of the filter 10 and the decomposition of ozone gas in the container 30. In addition, the operation of the exhaust fan 63 discharges water vapor and ozone gas to the outside.

[0054] Figure 6 is a hardware configuration diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100c according to the third embodiment. It differs from the hardware configuration diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment in that it includes a circulation fan 62 and an exhaust fan 63.

[0055] In sterilization control, the control unit 20 controls the amount of ozone gas supplied by the ozone supplier 40 and circulates the ozone gas using the circulation fan 62. In drying control, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51 and blower 61 to maintain an appropriate temperature and airflow inside the container 30, and exhausts water vapor and ozone gas using the exhaust fan 63.

[0056] The following will be described using a flowchart. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the processes executed by the drying and sterilizing apparatus 100c according to the third embodiment. The processes of this flowchart are similar to those of the drying and sterilizing apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment.

[0057] In the present embodiment, the drying and sterilizing apparatus 100c is executed in any of a plurality of modes. When the first mode is set, the control unit 20 operates the circulation fan 62 (rotates it at the rated speed A1) when executing sterilization control, while switching to the operation of the exhaust fan 63 when switching to drying control, and rotates the exhaust fan 63 at the rated speed B1.

[0058] When a mode other than the first mode is set, the operating amounts of the circulation fan 62 and the exhaust fan 63 are made different between when executing sterilization control and when executing drying control. Specifically, when the second mode is set, the circulation fan 62 is rotated at the rated speed A1 while the exhaust fan 63 is rotated at a low speed B2 (<B1) during sterilization control, and the circulation fan 62 is rotated at a low speed A2 (<A1) while the exhaust fan 63 is rotated at the rated speed B1 during drying control.

[0059] When the third mode is set, the exhaust fan 63 is stopped while the circulation fan 62 is rotated at the rated speed A1 during sterilization control, and the exhaust fan 63 is rotated at the rated speed B1 while the circulation fan 62 is rotated at a low speed A2 during drying control. When the fourth mode is set, the exhaust fan 63 is operated at a low speed B2 while the circulation fan 62 is rotated at the rated speed A1 during sterilization control, and the exhaust fan 63 is rotated at the rated speed B1 while the circulation fan 62 is stopped during drying control. In the description of FIGS. 5 to 7, it is described as if the first mode is set.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 7, when it is during the ozone treatment step (YES in S201: during the first time), the control unit 20 proceeds to the process in S202. When it is not during the ozone treatment step (NO in S201: the first time has ended), the control unit 20 proceeds to the process in S205. [[ID=十七]]

[0061] In S202, the control unit 20 closes the exhaust path 80. In S203, the control unit 20 controls the ozone supply unit 40 to supply ozone gas to a specified concentration. In S204, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 and the circulation fan 62 (to pass the ozone gas through the filter 10 and circulate it in the container 30), and returns the process to S201. As a result, sterilization treatment with ozone gas is performed until the first time period ends.

[0062] The control unit 20 proceeds to S206 if the drying process is in progress (YES in S205: during the second time period). The control unit 20 terminates the process if the drying process is not in progress (NO in S205: the second time period has ended).

[0063] In S206, the control unit 20 opens the exhaust path 80 and operates the exhaust fan 63 (to discharge ozone gas and water vapor). In S207, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51 to turn ON. In S208, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 to send hot air and returns the process to S105. As a result, the drying process with hot air is carried out until the second time period ends.

[0064] The example in Figure 5 shows an example in which ozone gas is circulated inside the container 30. However, the system is not limited to this, and the ozone gas may be configured to be circulated outside the container 30. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a drying and sterilization apparatus 100d according to a modified example of the third embodiment.

[0065] The drying and sterilization device 100d is equipped with an ozone circulation path 82. An intake port is provided at the top of the container 30, and an outlet port is provided at the bottom of the container 30. One end of the ozone circulation path 82 is connected to the intake port at the top of the container 30, and the other end of the ozone circulation path 82 is connected to the outlet port at the bottom of the container 30.

[0066] Furthermore, the circulation fan 62 is installed connected to the intake port at the top of the container 30. By operating the circulation fan 62, ozone gas is drawn in from the intake port and discharged again from the outlet via the ozone circulation path 82. In this way, the ozone gas circulates outside the container 30.

[0067] As described above, the drying and sterilization apparatus 100c,d further includes a circulation fan 62, an exhaust path 80, and an exhaust fan 63. The circulation fan 62 circulates the gas inside the container 30 within the container 30. The exhaust path 80 discharges the gas inside the container 30 to the outside of the container 30. The exhaust fan 63 sends the gas inside the container 30 to the exhaust path 80. The control unit 20 operates the circulation fan 62 when performing sterilization control, and switches to operating the exhaust fan 63 when switching to drying control, or it makes the amount of operation of the circulation fan 62 and the amount of operation of the exhaust fan 63 different depending on whether sterilization control or drying control is being performed.

[0068] In this way, during sterilization control, the ozone gas in the container 30 is circulated, allowing the ozone gas to be repeatedly and efficiently passed through the filter 10, while during drying control, the ozone gas is discharged along with water vapor, enabling efficient drying and decomposition of the ozone gas. Alternatively, by differentiating the operating amounts of the circulation fan 62 and the exhaust fan 63 when performing sterilization control and drying control, it becomes possible to finely control the ozone gas concentration by discharging the ozone gas to the outside during sterilization control, or to efficiently circulate warm air by circulating during drying control.

[0069] [Fourth Embodiment] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100e according to the fourth embodiment. The drying and sterilization apparatus 100e according to the fourth embodiment further includes a ventilation fan 64. Below, we will explain the parts that differ in configuration from the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b according to the second embodiment, and omit the explanation of the parts that are the same as the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b.

[0070] The ventilation fan 64 blows air onto the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10. As shown in Figure 9, ozone gas or warm air is blown from the blower 61 so as to hit the bottom surface of the filter 10. In this example, in order to more efficiently ventilate the filter 10 with ozone gas or warm air, the ventilation fan 64 is installed in a position where the air from the ventilation fan 64 directly hits the bottom surface of the filter 10. For example, if the filter 10 is placed on a shelf 70 as shown in Figure 9, the ventilation fan 64 may be installed on the opposite side of the shelf 70 on which the filter 10 is placed.

[0071] Figure 10 is a hardware configuration diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100e according to the fourth embodiment. It differs from the hardware configuration diagram of the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment in that it is equipped with a ventilation fan 64.

[0072] In sterilization control, the control unit 20 controls the amount of ozone gas supplied by the ozone supplier 40, and also controls the blower 61 and ventilation fan 64 to pass the ozone gas through the filter 10. In drying control, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51, blower 61 and ventilation fan 64 to pass warm air through the filter 10 in order to maintain an appropriate temperature and airflow inside the container 30.

[0073] Furthermore, a pressure gauge, hygrometer, etc. may be installed as appropriate to measure the conditions inside the container 30. In addition, a humidifier may be installed inside the container 30 to maintain a humidity level suitable for achieving optimal sterilization treatment with ozone gas. In this case, the humidity inside the container 30 may be measured using a hygrometer while the humidifier is operated to control the humidity inside the container 30.

[0074] The following explanation will be given using a flowchart. Figure 11 is a flowchart of the process performed by the drying and sterilization apparatus 100e according to the fourth embodiment. The process in this flowchart is similar to the process performed by the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first embodiment.

[0075] The control unit 20 proceeds to S302 if the ozone treatment process is in progress (YES in S301: during the first time period). The control unit 20 proceeds to S305 if the ozone treatment process is not in progress (NO in S301: the first time period has ended).

[0076] In S302, the control unit 20 closes the exhaust path 80. In S303, the control unit 20 controls the ozone supply unit 40 to supply ozone gas to a specified concentration. In S304, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 and the ventilation fan 64 to send ozone gas to the filter 10 and returns the process to S301. As a result, sterilization treatment with ozone gas is performed until the first time period ends.

[0077] The control unit 20 proceeds to S306 if the drying process is in progress (YES in S305: during the second time period). The control unit 20 terminates this process if the drying process is not in progress (NO in S305: the second time period has ended).

[0078] In S306, the control unit 20 opens the exhaust path 80. In S307, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51 to turn ON. In S308, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 and the ventilation fan 64 to send warm air to the filter 10 and returns the process to S305. As a result, the drying process with warm air is carried out until the second time period ends.

[0079] As explained above, the drying and sterilization device 100e is further equipped with a ventilation fan 64. The ventilation fan 64 blows air onto the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10. In this way, gas can be reliably passed onto the ventilation surface 10a of the filter 10, thereby enabling more efficient sterilization and drying.

[0080] The drying and sterilization devices 100a to e according to the first to fourth embodiments are devices for sterilizing and drying a filter 10 after washing. The filter 10 is used in an air conditioner. The drying and sterilization devices 100a to e include a container 30, an ozone supply unit 40, and a blower 61. The container 30 houses the filter 10 so that ozone gas supplied to the inside or warm air circulating inside can pass through it. The ozone supply unit 40 supplies ozone gas into the container 30. The blower 61 circulates warm air into the container 30 after the supply of ozone gas by the ozone supply unit 40 has finished. In this way, the filter 10 after washing can be suitably sterilized and dried.

[0081] In the container 30 of the first to fourth embodiments, an exhaust path 80 and an intake port 31 are provided. When exhausting the gas inside the container 30, both the exhaust path 80 and the intake port 31 are controlled to be open, and when exhausting the gas inside the container 30 is not performed, both the exhaust path 80 and the intake port 31 are controlled to be closed. The ozone concentration meter 91 is used to confirm whether the ozone concentration is kept constant during sterilization control, and also to confirm how much the ozone gas concentration has decreased when ozone gas is discharged from the exhaust path 80. The ozone gas concentration can be adjusted by the amount of ozone gas supplied from the ozone supplier 40, but it can also be adjusted by controlling the amount of ozone gas discharged from the exhaust path 80. When adjusting the ozone concentration by controlling the amount of ozone gas discharged, it is not necessary to close the exhaust path 80 in the ozone treatment process.

[0082] [Differentiation] The following describes modifications of the first embodiment. Figure 12 is a flowchart of the process performed by the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0083] In the first embodiment, the blower 61 is configured to circulate warm air into the container 30 after the supply of ozone gas by the ozone supplier 40 has ended. Specifically, it is configured to be controlled to perform an ozone treatment process (sterilization control) for a first period of time, and then, once the first period is over, to perform a drying process (drying control) for a second period of time.

[0084] On the other hand, in this modified example, the system is configured to circulate warm air inside the container 30 while ozone gas is being supplied by the ozone supplier 40. Specifically, the system is configured to be controlled to perform an ozone drying process (sterilization control and drying control) for a third period of time. The ozone drying process simultaneously performs the ozone treatment process (sterilization control) and the drying process (drying control) that are performed in the first embodiment.

[0085] When this process starts, the control unit 20 determines in S401 whether or not the ozone drying process (sterilization control and drying control) is in progress. If the ozone drying process is in progress (YES in S401: during the third time period), the control unit 20 proceeds to S402. If the ozone drying process is not in progress (NO in S401: the third time period has ended), the control unit 20 terminates this process.

[0086] In S402, the control unit 20 opens the exhaust path 80. In S403, the control unit 20 controls the heater 51 to turn ON. This enables drying control, which controls the flow of hot air inside the container 30 by the blower 61.

[0087] In S404, the control unit 20 controls the ozone supply unit 40 to supply ozone gas to a specified concentration. In S405, the control unit 20 controls the blower 61 to send warm air containing ozone gas and returns the process to S401. As a result, sterilization treatment with ozone gas is performed until the third time period ends, and drying control is performed to control the flow of warm air inside the container 30.

[0088] Furthermore, control that performs the ozone treatment process (sterilization control) and the drying process (drying control) simultaneously may be applied to the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b to e according to the second to fourth embodiments.

[0089] In the configuration as in the first embodiment, the ozone dissolves in the moisture adhering to the filter 10 during the ozone treatment process, and then the moisture evaporates during the drying process, concentrating the ozone and thus enhancing the sterilization effect. On the other hand, by performing the ozone-drying process as in the first modified example, the decomposition of ozone gas is accelerated at high temperatures. This makes it possible to dry and sterilize the filter 10 in a short time. The ozone-drying process may also be performed after the treatment in the first embodiment.

[0090] Next, a second modification of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a flowchart of the process performed by the drying and sterilization apparatus 100a according to the second modification of the first embodiment.

[0091] In the second modified example, the blower 61 circulates warm air into the container 30 before and after ozone gas is supplied by the ozone supplier 40. Specifically, the blower is controlled to perform a drying process (drying control) for a fourth period of time, and when the fourth period ends, it is controlled to perform an ozone treatment process (sterilization control) for a fifth period of time, and when the fifth period ends, it is controlled to perform a drying process (drying control) again for a sixth period of time.

[0092] In this modified example, the processes in S501 to S504 are the same as those in S105 to S108, with the first drying process (drying control) being performed for a fourth period of time. Furthermore, the processes in S505 to S512 are the same as those in S101 to S108, with the ozone treatment process (sterilization control) being performed after the first drying process for a fifth period of time, and the second drying process (drying control) being performed after the ozone treatment process for a sixth period of time. Since the processing content is the same, the explanation is omitted.

[0093] Furthermore, the control method of performing an ozone treatment process (sterilization control) after a drying process (drying control), and then performing the drying process (drying control) again, may be applied to the drying and sterilization apparatus 100b to e according to the second to fourth embodiments.

[0094] In the ozone treatment process, if the humidity is higher than the optimal humidity for ozone treatment, the sterilizing effect of the ozone treatment will decrease. By configuring the system as in the second modified example, the filter 10 can be dried in advance, thereby enabling ozone treatment to be carried out under optimal conditions.

[0095] [Note] The embodiments described above are specific examples of the following appendix.

[0096] (Note 1) A drying and sterilization device for sterilizing and drying filters after washing, The aforementioned filter is used in an air conditioner. A container housing the filter so that ozone gas supplied to the interior or warm air circulating inside can pass through, An ozone supply device that supplies the ozone gas into the container, A drying and sterilization apparatus comprising a blower for circulating the hot air inside the container.

[0097] (Note 2) The drying and sterilization apparatus according to Appendix 1, further comprising an arrangement member for arranging the filter inside the container such that the hot air from the blower strikes the air-ventilated surface of the filter.

[0098] (Note 3) The drying and sterilization apparatus according to Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, further comprising a control unit that performs sterilization control, which controls the supply of ozone gas into the container by the ozone supplier, and drying control, which controls the circulation of hot air into the container by the blower.

[0099] (Note 4) A circulation fan for circulating the gas inside the container, An exhaust path for discharging the gas inside the container to the outside of the container, The exhaust path is further provided with an exhaust fan that sends the gas inside the container to the exhaust path. The drying and sterilization apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, wherein the control unit operates the circulation fan when executing the sterilization control and switches to operating the exhaust fan when switching to the drying control, or the amount of operation of the circulation fan and the amount of operation of the exhaust fan are different when executing the sterilization control and when executing the drying control.

[0100] (Note 5) A drying and sterilizing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, further comprising a ventilation fan that blows air onto the ventilation surface of the filter.

[0101] (Note 6) The blower is a drying and sterilization apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the blower circulates the hot air into the container after the supply of the ozone gas by the ozone supplier has ended.

[0102] (Note 7) A drying and sterilization apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the hot air is circulated inside the container while the ozone gas is supplied by the ozone supply device.

[0103] (Note 8) The blower is a drying and sterilization apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the blower circulates the hot air inside the container before and after the ozone gas is supplied by the ozone supplier.

[0104] (Note 9) The drying and sterilizing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the temperature of the hot air passing through the filter is less than 60°C.

[0105] (Note 10) A control method for a drying and sterilization apparatus that sterilizes and dries a filter after washing, The aforementioned filter is used in an air conditioner. The aforementioned drying and sterilization apparatus is A container housing the filter so that ozone gas supplied to the interior or warm air circulating inside can pass through, An ozone supply device that supplies the ozone gas into the container, The container is equipped with a blower that circulates the hot air inside the container, The control method described above is The steps include controlling the supply of ozone gas into the container by the ozone supplier, A control method comprising the step of controlling the flow of the hot air inside the container by the blower.

[0106] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not limited to those described herein. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 10 Filter, 10a Ventilation surface, 10b Frame, 20 Control unit, 21 Processor, 22 Memory, 23 Communication interface, 30 Container, 31 Air intake, 40 Ozone supply unit, 51 Heater, 61 Blower, 62 Circulation fan, 63 Exhaust fan, 64 Ventilation fan, 70 Shelf, 80 Exhaust path, 82 Ozone circulation path, 91 Ozone concentration meter, 92 Thermometer, 100a~100e Drying and sterilization device.

Claims

1. A drying and sterilization device for sterilizing and drying filters after washing, The aforementioned filter is used in an air conditioner. A container housing the filter so that ozone gas supplied to the interior or warm air circulating inside can pass through, An ozone supply device that supplies the ozone gas into the container, A drying and sterilization apparatus comprising a blower for circulating the hot air inside the container.

2. The drying and sterilizing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an arrangement member for arranging the filter in the container such that the hot air from the blower strikes the air-ventilated surface of the filter.

3. The drying and sterilization apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a control unit that performs sterilization control, which controls the supply of ozone gas into the container by the ozone supplier, and drying control, which controls the flow of hot air into the container by the blower.

4. A circulation fan for circulating the gas inside the container, An exhaust path for discharging the gas inside the container to the outside of the container, The exhaust path is further provided with an exhaust fan that sends the gas inside the container to the exhaust path. The drying and sterilization apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit operates the circulation fan when executing the sterilization control and switches to operating the exhaust fan when switching to the drying control, or the amount of operation of the circulation fan and the amount of operation of the exhaust fan are different when executing the sterilization control and when executing the drying control.

5. The drying and sterilizing apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a ventilation fan that blows air onto the ventilation surface of the filter.

6. The drying and sterilization apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the blower circulates the hot air into the container after the supply of the ozone gas by the ozone supplier has ended.

7. The drying and sterilization apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the hot air is circulated inside the container while the ozone gas is supplied by the ozone supplyer.

8. The drying and sterilization apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the blower circulates the hot air into the container before and after the ozone gas is supplied by the ozone supplyer.

9. The drying and sterilizing apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the temperature of the hot air passing through the filter is less than 60°C.

10. A control method for a drying and sterilization apparatus that sterilizes and dries a filter after washing, The aforementioned filter is used in an air conditioner. The aforementioned drying and sterilization apparatus is A container housing the filter so that ozone gas supplied to the interior or warm air circulating inside can pass through, An ozone supply device that supplies the ozone gas into the container, The container is equipped with a blower that circulates the hot air inside the container, The control method described above is The steps include controlling the supply of ozone gas into the container by the ozone supplier, A control method comprising the step of controlling the flow of the hot air inside the container by the blower.

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