Air purification device

Abstract

The present invention provides a space purification device capable of appropriately determining whether or not scale has precipitated. [Solution] The device comprises a main body case 1 having an intake port 2 and an outlet port 6, a blower unit 12 that guides air from the intake port 2 to the outlet port 6, an electrolytic cell 5 that is detachable from the main body case 1 and mixes an electrolytic accelerator and water, an electrode unit 14 that generates hypochlorous acid water from the electrolytic accelerator and water mixed in the electrolytic cell 5, an electrostatic sensor 17 whose capacitance changes based on the amount of liquid in the electrolytic cell 5, a water level determination unit 41 that determines the liquid level in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17, a discharge amount estimation unit 42 that estimates the amount of liquid to be discharged from the electrolytic cell 5, and a determination unit 43 that determines whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is in a precipitated state, based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit 41 and the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42. This solves the above problem.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a space purification device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a dehumidifying device capable of detecting the amount of water in a water storage section that receives dehumidified water has been known (for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, a change in capacitance is used to detect the amount of water.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Detection of the amount of water in a container storing a liquid is performed by using a sensor whose capacitance changes depending on whether or not a liquid is present in the vicinity.

[0005] By the way, in a device that discharges the liquid in the container to a predetermined space, it is necessary to supply tap water or the like to the container in order to replenish the discharged liquid. In this case, if tap water is continuously replenished into the container, inorganic salts such as calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, and silica contained in the tap water will precipitate in the container as impurities (scale), and when detecting the amount of water using capacitance, there is a risk that the amount of water cannot be accurately detected. The degree of progress of scale precipitation varies depending on the usage environment of the device and the like, and cannot be known from uniform information such as the usage time. Therefore, it is required to appropriately determine whether or not it is a precipitation state in which scale has precipitated.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention solves the above conventional problems, and an object thereof is to provide a space purification device capable of appropriately determining whether or not it is a precipitation state in which scale has precipitated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve this objective, the air purification device according to the present invention comprises a main body case having an intake port and an outlet port, a blower unit that guides air from the intake port to the outlet port, an electrolytic cell that is detachable from the main body case and mixes an electrolytic accelerator and water, an electrode unit that generates hypochlorous acid water from the electrolytic accelerator and water mixed in the electrolytic cell, an electrostatic sensor whose capacitance changes based on the amount of liquid in the electrolytic cell, a water level determination unit that determines the water level of the liquid in the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor, a discharge amount estimation unit that estimates the amount of liquid to be discharged from the electrolytic cell, and a determination unit that determines whether or not a precipitation state has occurred in the electrolytic cell, based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit and the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit, thereby achieving the intended objective. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a space purification device that can appropriately determine whether or not a precipitation state is present, which is a state in which scale has precipitated. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a space purification device. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the air purification device with its panel open. [Figure 3] This is a side cross-sectional view of a space purification device. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the electrolytic cell and electrostatic sensor area of ​​the air purification system. [Figure 5] This is a schematic functional block diagram of the control unit and surrounding parts of the air purification system. [Figure 6] Figures 6(a)-(c) show the relationship between capacitance and water level. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the control procedure by the control unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes embodiments of the air purification device according to the present invention with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are provided as examples to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit it. For example, the shapes, structures, materials, components, relative positional relationships, numerical values, the content of each step in the method, and the order of each step shown in the following embodiments are examples and may include content not described below. Furthermore, expressions such as simultaneous, identical, and same are used within a substantially permissible range. In each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified. The dimensions of components in each drawing are enlarged or reduced as appropriate to facilitate understanding. Additionally, some components that are not important for explaining the embodiments are omitted in each drawing.

[0011] First, let's describe the air purification device D, which is part of this embodiment. The air purification device D is installed in a predetermined space and purifies the air present in that space. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the air purification device D. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the air purification device D with panel 3 of Figure 1 opened.

[0012] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air purification device D comprises a main body case 1.

[0013] The main body case 1 has a substantially box-shaped form and is surrounded by a front surface 100, a rear surface 101, a first side surface 102, a second side surface 103, an upper surface 104, and a lower surface 105. The direction from the front surface 100 toward the rear surface 101 is the rear direction, and the direction from the rear surface 101 toward the front surface 100 is the front direction. The direction from the first side surface 102 toward the second side surface 103 is the left direction, and the direction from the second side surface 103 toward the first side surface 102 is the right direction. The direction from the upper surface 104 toward the lower surface 105 is the downward direction, and the direction from the lower surface 105 toward the upper surface 104 is the upward direction. Therefore, the front surface 100 and the rear surface 101 are arranged to face each other in the front-rear direction, the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 103 are arranged to face each other in the left-right direction, and the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 105 are arranged to face each other in the up-down direction. Incidentally, it can be said that the left-right direction is the horizontal direction and the up-down direction is the vertical direction.

[0014] The main body case 1 includes a suction port 2, a blowout port 6, and a panel 3.

[0015] The suction port 2 is provided on both side surfaces (the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 103) of the main body case 1 and is a lattice-shaped opening for taking air outside the main body case 1 into the main body case 1.

[0016] The blowout port 6 is provided on the top surface (the upper surface 104) of the main body case 1. The blowout port 6 is an openable and closable opening for blowing the air taken into the main body case 1 from the suction port 2 to the outside of the main body case 1. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the blowout port 6 is in a closed state. 3]

[0017] The panel 3 is provided on the first side surface 102, which is the right side surface in the front view of the main body case 1. The panel 3 is an openable and closable cover and is mainly formed of a plastic resin. On the front side (the frontward side) of the main body case 1 in the panel 3, one of the two suction ports 2 is provided. The inside of the panel 3 is the inside of the main body case 1.

[0018] Inside the main body case 1, an electrolytic cell 5 and a water storage tank 9 are provided.

[0019] The electrolytic cell 5 has a box shape with an open top surface and is structured to store water. The electrolytic cell 5 is disposed at the lower part of the main body case 1 and is detachable from the main body case 1 by sliding horizontally with respect to the main body case 1. The electrolytic cell 5 mixes an electrolysis promoter and water. Specifically, it mixes the electrolysis promoter supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 and the water supplied. In this embodiment, the water supply to the electrolytic cell 5 is performed by the water storage tank 9, but the user may directly supply water to the electrolytic cell 5. The supply of the electrolysis promoter to the electrolytic cell 5 may be performed by the user, or an electrolysis promoter supply unit for supplying the electrolysis promoter may be provided and the control unit 22 may control the electrolysis promoter supply unit to supply the electrolysis promoter. Here, the dissolution of the electrolysis promoter in water is also regarded as the mixing of the electrolysis promoter and water. When the electrolysis promoter dissolves in water, water containing chloride ions is stored in the electrolytic cell 5. An example of the electrolysis promoter is sodium chloride. Note that tap water is used as the water supplied to the electrolytic cell 5.

[0020] The water storage tank 9 is disposed above the electrolytic cell 5. The water storage tank 9 has a structure that is detachable from the electrolytic cell 5 and the main body case 1. The water storage tank 9 is a hollow container capable of storing water and supplies water to the electrolytic cell 5. The water storage tank 9 includes a lid 10.

[0021] The lid 10 is provided at an opening located at the lower part of the water storage tank 9. The center of the lid 10 has an opening / closing part. When the opening / closing part opens, the water in the water storage tank 9 is supplied to the electrolytic cell 5. Specifically, when the opening of the water storage tank 9 is oriented downward and attached to the electrolytic cell 5, the opening / closing part of the lid 10 opens. That is, when water is put into the water storage tank 9 and attached to the electrolytic cell 5, the opening / closing part of the lid 10 opens and water is supplied from the water storage tank 9 to the electrolytic cell 5. When the water supply is performed and the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 rises to reach the position of the lid 10, the opening / closing part of the lid 10 is sealed by water, so the water supply from the water storage tank 9 stops and water remains in the water storage tank 9. And when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 drops, the water in the water storage tank 9 is supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 each time. That is, the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is kept constant.

[0022] Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the air purification device D, taken from the first side surface 102 to the second side surface 103. The main body case 1 contains a blower unit 12, an electrode unit 14, and a purification unit 15.

[0023] The air blower unit 12 is located in the center of the main body case 1 and guides air from the intake port 2 to the outlet port 6. The air blower unit 12 is equipped with a fan. The fan is, for example, a sirocco fan and rotates in accordance with the control unit 22. As the fan rotates, air is drawn into the main body case 1 from the intake port 2. The air drawn in from the intake port 2 passes through the purification unit 15, which will be described later, and is blown out from the outlet port 6.

[0024] The electrode unit 14 generates hypochlorous acid water from the electrolysis accelerator and water mixed in the electrolysis cell 5. The electrode unit 14 is equipped with an electrode member, which is installed so as to be immersed in the water in the electrolysis cell 5. By passing an electric current through this electrode member, the electrode unit 14 electrochemically decomposes the water containing chloride ions in the electrolysis cell 5, i.e., the electrolyzed water, to generate hypochlorous acid water.

[0025] Furthermore, the electrode unit 14 generates hypochlorous acid water by repeating a cycle multiple times, with the energizing time (when current is applied to the electrode member for electrolysis) and the non-energizing time (when no current is applied) being considered as one cycle. By providing a non-energizing time for the electrode member, the lifespan of the electrode member can be extended. Note that if the energizing time is longer than the non-energizing time, a larger amount of hypochlorous acid is generated per cycle. Conversely, if the non-energizing time is longer than the energizing time, the amount of hypochlorous acid generated per cycle can be reduced. In addition, if the amount of electricity used during the energizing time is increased, even more hypochlorous acid will be generated.

[0026] The purification unit 15 purifies the air by bringing hypochlorous acid water, generated in the electrolytic cell 5, into contact with the air drawn in from the intake port 2. The purification unit 15 is equipped with a filter. The filter is connected to the electrolytic cell 5. This component brings the hypochlorous acid water generated in the electrolytic cell 5 into contact with the air that flows into the main body case 1 by the air blower 12. The filter is cylindrical in shape and has holes in its circumference through which air can flow. One end of the filter is immersed in the hypochlorous acid water generated in the electrolytic cell 5 to retain water, and the filter is built into the electrolytic cell 5 so that it can rotate around its central axis. The filter is rotated by the drive unit, bringing the hypochlorous acid water into continuous contact with the air. This allows for air purification.

[0027] Incidentally, an air passage 13 is formed inside the main case 1, leading from the intake port 2 to the purification unit 15, the blower unit 12, and the outlet port 6. When the fan of the blower unit 12 rotates, the air drawn in from the intake port 2 and entering the air passage 13 is sequentially blown out of the main case 1 via the purification unit 15, the blower unit 12, and the outlet port 6. As a result, the air containing hypochlorous acid water from the electrolytic cell 5 is released to the outside. In other words, the purification unit 15 purifies the space using the hypochlorous acid water generated in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the main case 1 includes a partition wall 16.

[0029] The partition wall 16 separates the electrostatic sensor space 31, where the electrostatic sensor 17 is located, from the electrolytic cell space 32, where the electrolytic cell 5 is located. In other words, the main case 1 contains both the electrostatic sensor space 31 and the electrolytic cell space 32. The electrolytic cell space 32 contains the water storage tank 9 and the purification unit 15, in addition to the electrolytic cell 5. Specifically, the water storage tank 9 is detachable from the electrolytic cell space 32. The electrostatic sensor space 31 contains the electrostatic sensor 17 and the control unit 22, etc.

[0030] In the electrolytic cell space 32, the hypochlorous acid generated in the electrolytic cell 5 volatilizes. The volatilized hypochlorous acid can corrode the circuit board, components, etc., used to realize the functions of the electrostatic sensor 17 and the control unit 22. A partition wall 16 is provided to prevent the volatilized hypochlorous acid from entering the electrostatic sensor space 31. In other words, the partition wall 16 isolates the electrostatic sensor space 31 and the electrolytic cell space 32, preventing the volatilized hypochlorous acid from passing through.

[0031] The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes based on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. As shown in Figure 3, the electrostatic sensor 17 is positioned opposite the electrolytic cell 5, with the partition wall 16 in between. Specifically, in this embodiment, the electrostatic sensor 17 is positioned opposite the side surface (not the top or bottom surface) of the electrolytic cell 5 in the front-rear direction, with the partition wall 16 in between. More specifically, the side surface of the electrolytic cell 5 is the rear surface of the electrolytic cell 5 (the rear surface 101 side of the main case 1, the rearward side). That is, it is the surface (side surface) of the electrolytic cell 5 closest to the electrostatic sensor 17. This side surface can also be called the opposing side surface 20 because it is the side surface that the electrostatic sensor 17 faces. Furthermore, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 also changes depending on the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the opposing side surface 20; the greater the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the opposing side surface 20, the smaller the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17.

[0032] In this embodiment, water, hypochlorous acid water, and a mixture of water and hypochlorous acid water may be collectively referred to as "water." In other words, the liquid present in the electrolytic cell 5 may be collectively referred to as "water." Therefore, the amount of liquid in the electrolytic cell 5 may be described as the liquid volume, or it may be described collectively as the water volume. Here, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 also changes depending on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, and the capacitance decreases as the amount of water decreases. In other words, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes based on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0033] Next, we will explain the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. In the air purification device D, hypochlorous acid is generated by applying voltage to the electrode section 14. When applying voltage to the electrode section 14, it is preferable that all electrode members of the electrode section 14 are immersed in water. If current is applied when at least a part of the electrode members is not immersed in water, the deterioration of the non-immersed electrode members will be accelerated. be.

[0034] In the electrolytic cell 5, the amount of water in a state where at least a portion of the electrode components is not immersed in water is defined as the non-immersed water amount. In other words, the non-immersed water amount in the electrolytic cell 5 can also be considered the amount of water in a drought state where the electrolytic cell 5 is deficient in water.

[0035] Here, the water level when the water level is at a low level is defined as the low level. For example, the water level corresponding to the largest water level at a low level is defined as the first water level. Furthermore, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 when water is present at the first water level is defined as the first water level. In other words, the first water level can also be said to be the amount of water immediately after a part of the electrode material is exposed above the water surface when the water in the electrolytic cell 5 decreases. That is, the first water level does not represent a state where the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is completely depleted.

[0036] It is important to know whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is above the first water level. This is because, as mentioned earlier, it is undesirable to energize the electrode section 14 if the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level.

[0037] Figure 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the air purification device D from a different location than that shown in Figure 3, and it shows in detail the structure around the electrolytic cell 5 and the electrostatic sensor 17. Figure 4 is also a side cross-sectional view of the air purification device D, viewed from the first side surface 102 to the second side surface 103.

[0038] The electrostatic sensor 17 is positioned on the side of the partition wall 16, which is perpendicular to the water surface, so as to face the water inside the electrolytic cell 5 via the side (rear) of the electrolytic cell 5. The electrostatic sensor 17 is located on the rear side of the main body case 1 in the partition wall 16. The electrostatic sensor 17 primarily detects the capacitance of the water inside the electrolytic cell 5. The electrostatic sensor 17 has capacitance. Capacitance changes depending on the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the water. The capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 decreases as the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the water increases. Also, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 decreases as the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 decreases.

[0039] The electrolytic cell 5 has a distance changing unit 18 that changes the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the water in the electrolytic cell 5 at the first water level and at the second water level which is higher than the first water level. The control unit 22, which will be described later, acquires the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 and detects the first water level based on the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17.

[0040] Specifically, the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the water in the electrolytic cell 5 at the first water level is longer than the distance between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the water in the electrolytic cell 5 at the second water level. The control unit 22 stores a first predetermined value and a second predetermined value that is higher than the first predetermined value as the detected value of the electrostatic sensor 17. When the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 falls below the second water level, the detected value of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes from a state higher than the second predetermined value to a state lower than the second predetermined value. Also, when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 falls below the first water level, the detected value of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes from a state higher than the first predetermined value to a state lower than the first predetermined value. Here, the second water level is lower than the highest position of the electrostatic sensor 17. In other words, the second water level is the water level in the region where the electrostatic sensor is located at an opposing position and the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes with the change in water volume. Furthermore, the second water level is set at a position higher than the first water level and lower than the lid 10 of the water storage tank 9.

[0041] Furthermore, the distance changing section 18 faces the electrostatic sensor 17, and the opposing side surface 20, which is the side of the electrolytic cell 5 closest to the electrostatic sensor 17, is a recessed portion 21 that is recessed inward of the electrolytic cell 5. Note that the lateral (left-right) dimension of the recessed portion 21 along the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5 is larger than the lateral (left-right) dimension of the electrostatic sensor 17 along the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5. In the lateral (left-right) direction along the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5, the electrostatic sensor 17 is located within the recessed portion 21. In other words, in the lateral (left-right) direction along the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5 In this direction, the electrostatic sensor 17 is not located outside the recessed portion. The recessed portion 21 is recessed inward into the electrolytic cell 5 by the distance from the top surface of the recessed portion 21 downwards.

[0042] The first water level is slightly lower than the upper surface of the recessed portion 21. The recessed portion 21 causes the water in the electrolytic cell 5 to rapidly separate from the electrostatic sensor 17 at the first water level, which is a low-water state. This makes the output of the electrostatic sensor 17 steeper and increases the change in capacitance. As a result, the first predetermined value can be set far away from the second predetermined value, improving the accuracy of water level detection.

[0043] Furthermore, the upper surface of the recessed portion 21 has a flat portion 19. The first water level is slightly lower than the flat portion 19. As a result, in the electrolytic cell 5, when the water level inside the electrolytic cell 5 drops from a water level higher than the flat portion 19 to a water level lower than the flat portion 19, the water inside the electrolytic cell 5 rapidly separates from the electrostatic sensor 17 at the first water level.

[0044] Furthermore, the recessed portion 21 is provided between the electrostatic sensor 17 and the purification section 15 at the first water level. The cylindrical filter of the purification section 15 is mounted in the electrolytic cell 5 so as to be rotatable in the vertical direction with a central axis extending in the horizontal direction as the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation of the cylindrical filter is mounted parallel to the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5 that has the recessed portion 21. The distance from the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5 to the periphery of the flat portion 19 on the filter side is longer than the distance from the periphery of the flat portion 19 on the filter side to the circumferential surface of the filter.

[0045] As a result, the distance from the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5 to the periphery of the flat portion 19 on the filter side becomes longer, and at the first water level, the water is further away from the electrostatic sensor 17 compared to the second water level, making it easier to detect changes in capacitance, suppressing false detections, and improving the accuracy of water level detection.

[0046] Furthermore, the flat section 19 is inclined downward from the opposing side surface 20 of the electrolytic cell 5 toward the filter (purification section 15).

[0047] As a result, when the amount of water decreases and the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 drops from a level higher than the flat section 19 to a level lower than the flat section 19, the inclination of the surface of the flat section 19 causes water to flow to the side away from the electrostatic sensor 17. This makes it difficult for water to accumulate on the upper surface of the recessed section 21, causing the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 to decrease rapidly and improving the accuracy of water level detection.

[0048] The air purification device D further includes a control unit 22 and a notification unit 8.

[0049] The control unit 22 performs various controls on the air purification device D, but the details will be described later.

[0050] The notification unit 8 is, for example, installed on the top surface of the air purification device D, and notifies the user of the need to supply water to the electrolytic cell 5, the need for maintenance of the electrolytic cell 5 (cleaning to remove scale), etc. An example of the notification unit 8 is a display LED (light emitting diode), which illuminates to indicate when water supply, maintenance, etc., is needed. The display by the notification unit 8 is controlled by the control unit 22. The notification unit 8 may also provide notification by sound, such as a buzzer. The notification unit 8 does not necessarily have to be installed in the air purification device D. For example, a mobile terminal may be equipped with a notification unit, and the mobile terminal and the control unit 22 may be able to communicate wirelessly, so that the mobile terminal can receive notification information transmitted wirelessly via the notification unit. The notification unit 8 may also be a touch panel, or a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel.

[0051] Next, the functions of the control unit 22 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a schematic functional block diagram of the control unit 22 and its surrounding parts.

[0052] Each functional block of the control unit 22 can be implemented as hardware, such as a computer's CPU (Central Processing Unit), or as a computer program, or as software, but here it is a functional block that is realized through the coordination of these components. Therefore, these functional blocks can be realized in various ways through combinations of hardware and software. In this embodiment, the control unit 22 is composed of a circuit board and is realized through a combination of various components on the circuit board and a computer program.

[0053] The control unit 22 includes a water level determination unit 41, a discharge amount estimation unit 42, a determination unit 43, a notification control unit 44, and a storage unit 45.

[0054] The water level determination unit 41 determines the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17. Specifically, the water level determination unit 41 determines whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 has decreased to the second water level or the first water level.

[0055] Here, the memory unit 45 is a so-called memory that stores threshold values. As threshold values, it stores the aforementioned first predetermined value and a second predetermined value that is higher than the first predetermined value. The first predetermined value is used to determine whether or not the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is at the first water level. The second predetermined value is used to determine whether or not the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is at the second water level. The first predetermined value and the second predetermined value are values ​​determined in advance by experiments, for example, and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the detected value (capacitance) of the electrostatic sensor 17 when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is at the first water level is obtained in advance by experiment, and the obtained value is stored as the first predetermined value. Also, the detected value (capacitance) of the electrostatic sensor 17 when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is at the second water level is obtained in advance by experiment, and the obtained value is stored as the second predetermined value.

[0056] First, the water level determination unit 41 acquires the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17. Then, the water level determination unit 41 compares the acquired capacitance with a threshold value stored in the memory unit 45. If the acquired capacitance is less than or equal to a first predetermined value, the water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level. Also, if the acquired capacitance is less than or equal to a second predetermined value, the water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the second water level. In this way, the water level determination unit 41 determines the water level of the liquid in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. Note that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 when water is present in the water storage tank 9 is considered full. When full, the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is higher than the second water level.

[0057] The memory unit 45 may store specific values ​​corresponding to other specific water levels (water levels other than the first and second water levels) as threshold values. For example, specific values ​​corresponding to other specific water levels are used to determine whether or not the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is at a specific water level. The water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the specific water level if the acquired capacitance is below the specific value.

[0058] The discharge amount estimation unit 42 estimates the amount of liquid to be discharged from the electrolytic cell 5. The purification unit 15 purifies the air by bringing the hypochlorous acid water generated in the electrolytic cell 5 into contact with the air drawn in from the intake port 2, thereby discharging the liquid from the electrolytic cell 5. The discharge amount estimation unit 42 estimates the amount of liquid to be discharged from the electrolytic cell 5 as a result of the air purification.

[0059] Specifically, the discharge amount estimation unit 42 estimates the amount of liquid discharged from the electrolytic cell 5 based on the temperature of a predetermined space, the humidity of a predetermined space, and the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12. Specifically, as an example, the discharge amount estimation unit 42 obtains the discharge amount X per unit time using a discharge amount table. The discharge amount table is a table that associates multiple temperatures, multiple humidity levels, multiple airflow rates, and multiple discharge amounts X per unit time, and is stored in the storage unit 45.

[0060] The amount of air released per unit time X at predetermined temperatures, humidity levels, and airflow levels is measured experimentally beforehand using a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, and airflow measuring device. The measured results, which correspond to predetermined temperatures, humidity levels, and airflow levels, are stored in the release amount table. The release amount table stores all the airflow levels that can be set in the air blower unit 12 as set airflow levels, and for each set airflow level, the amount of air released per unit time X corresponding to each temperature and humidity level is stored.

[0061] The emission amount estimation unit 42 acquires the temperature of a predetermined space measured by a temperature sensor provided in the space purification device D or a temperature sensor provided in the predetermined space. The emission amount estimation unit 42 also acquires the humidity of the predetermined space measured by a humidity sensor provided in the space purification device D or a humidity sensor provided in the predetermined space. The emission amount estimation unit 42 also acquires the set airflow rate set in the air blower unit 12. Based on the acquired temperature, acquired humidity, acquired set airflow rate, and the stored emission amount table, the emission amount estimation unit 42 acquires the emission amount per unit time.

[0062] As another example, the emission rate estimation unit 42 may calculate the emission rate per unit time and obtain the calculated emission rate per unit time. The emission rate per unit time (g / h) can be calculated based on the temperature of the predetermined space, the humidity of the predetermined space, and the set airflow rate, according to the following formula (1).

[0063] Emission rate per unit time = (B - Bin) × Q × ρ ... Equation (1) In equation (1), B represents the absolute humidity after release, Bin represents the absolute humidity before release, and Q is the set airflow rate (m³). 3 ρ represents the density of air (kg / m³), where ρ is the density of air (kg / m³). 3 The emission amount estimation unit 42 calculates the pre-emission absolute humidity Bin based on the temperature and humidity at a certain timing, and calculates the post-emission absolute humidity B based on the temperature and humidity at a timing after that timing (a timing one unit time after that timing).

[0064] The discharge amount estimation unit 42 estimates the cumulative discharge amount from the electrolytic cell 5 to a predetermined space, that is, the amount of water that has decreased from the electrolytic cell 5, by accumulating the discharge amount per unit time.

[0065] The determination unit 43 determines whether or not scale has precipitated on the electrolytic cell 5, based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit 41 and the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42. Specifically, if the water level determined by the water level determination unit 41 is higher than the water level expected when the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is discharged from the electrolytic cell 5, the determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 and that the accuracy of the water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated.

[0066] Here, we will explain why the accuracy of water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 deteriorates when scale is deposited on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19).

[0067] Figures 6(a)-(c) show the relationship between capacitance and water level. Figure 6(a) shows the relationship between capacitance and water level under normal conditions. The horizontal axis represents the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17, and the vertical axis represents the water level in the electrolytic cell 5. In this case, changes in the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 are perceived as changes in capacitance. Therefore, a capacitance corresponding to the water level of a drought (first water level) is set in advance as a threshold value (first predetermined value), and when the capacitance measured by the electrostatic sensor 17 reaches the first predetermined value, the water level determination unit 41 determines that there is a drought.

[0068] When the air purification device D performs a purification operation, the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 decreases, and water droplets adhere to the wall surface of the distance changing section 18 (flat section 19) or the opposing side surface 20. Distance changing section 1 When moisture adhering to the wall surface of 8 (flat section 19) or the opposing side surface 20 dries, the moisture precipitates as scale. Figure 6(b) shows the relationship between capacitance and water level when scale is retaining water. When scale retains water, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 increases. In other words, even if the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, if scale that was present at a water level without water is retaining water, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 will be higher than when scale is not retaining water (scale is not present on the wall surface of the distance changing section 18 (flat section 19) or the opposing side surface 20). As a result, when the capacitance reaches the first predetermined value, the water level will be lower than the boundary position 50 (first water level). In other words, it becomes more difficult for the water level determination unit 41 to detect depletion.

[0069] Figure 6(c) shows the relationship between capacitance and water level when the supply of water to the electrolytic cell 5 and the dewatering of the electrolytic cell 5 are repeated, as in Figure 6(b). As the supply and dewatering are repeated, the scale increases, and the water retention of the increased scale causes the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 to remain high and saturate, so it does not reach the first predetermined value. As a result, the water level determination unit 41 does not detect dewatering.

[0070] Thus, when scale is deposited on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19), the accuracy of the water level determination unit 41's determination of the drought water level (first water level) deteriorates due to water retention by the scale. For this reason, when scale is deposited on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19), it is preferable to encourage the user to perform cleaning maintenance.

[0071] The determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19) as described above, and that the accuracy of the water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated. Details of the determination control by the determination unit 43 will be described later with specific examples.

[0072] If the determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19) and that the water level determination accuracy of the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated, the notification control unit 44 will notify via the notification unit 8 that maintenance is required to remove the scale from the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19). In other words, if the determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 and that the water level determination accuracy of the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated, the notification unit 8 will notify that maintenance is required to remove the scale from the opposing side surface 20. The notification control unit 44 will also notify via the notification unit 8 that water supply will be required after the maintenance.

[0073] The operation of the control unit 22 with the above configuration will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart of the control procedure by the control unit 22. Here, in the flowchart, numbers are assigned starting with the letter S. For example, S001 indicates a processing step. However, the magnitude of the numerical value indicating a processing step is not related to the processing order.

[0074] Here, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 when water is present at the second water level is defined as the second water level. In this embodiment, the memory unit 45 stores the third water level, which is the amount of water obtained by subtracting the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 at the first water level (first water level) from the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 at the second water level (second water level). The third water level is used to determine whether the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 has changed from the amount of water at the second water level to the amount of water at the first water level. The third water level is a value determined in advance by experimentation, for example, and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 when the water level is at the second water level and the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 when the water level is at the first water level can be obtained in advance by experimentation, and the difference between the obtained amounts of water can be stored as the third water level.

[0075] First, if there is water in the water storage tank 9, the electrolytic cell 5 is full. In other words, if there is water in the water storage tank 9, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 does not change. After that, the purification section As the purification process continues by 15, the water in the storage tank 9 runs out, and the water in the electrolytic cell 5 decreases from full.

[0076] The water level determination unit 41 starts acquiring the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17 (S001). Thereafter, the water level determination unit 41 periodically acquires the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17. The water level determination unit 41 then compares the most recently acquired capacitance with a second predetermined value stored in the memory unit 45 (S002). If the acquired capacitance is greater than the second predetermined value, the water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is higher than the second water level and returns to step S002 (S002 No. → S002).

[0077] Furthermore, if the acquired capacitance is less than or equal to the second predetermined value, the water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the second water level and proceeds to step S003 (Yes in S002 → S003). Note that the second water level is higher than the first water level and is less affected by scale adhering to the wall surface of the opposing side surface 20. In other words, the accuracy of the determination unit 41 to determine that the water level is below the second water level is easier to maintain than the accuracy of determining that the water level is below the first water level. However, in order to further reduce the effect of scale, it is preferable that the second water level is lower than the water level when the cell is full, but closer to the water level when the cell is full.

[0078] In step S003, the discharge amount estimation unit 42 starts acquiring the amount of water discharged per unit time from the electrolytic cell 5 and integrating the acquired amount of water discharged per unit time (S003). In other words, the discharge amount estimation unit 42 starts calculating the integrated discharge amount, which is the integrated value of the discharge amounts.

[0079] Next, the water level determination unit 41 compares the most recently acquired capacitance with a first predetermined value stored in the memory unit 45 (S004). If the capacitance is less than or equal to the first predetermined value, the water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level, and the notification control unit 44 notifies the notification unit 8 that water supply is necessary (Yes in S004 → S005). This allows the user to understand that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level and that it is the appropriate time to supply water. Upon receiving notification from the notification unit 8, the user removes the water storage tank 9, supplies water to the water storage tank 9, and installs the water storage tank 9 in the air purification device D to supply water to the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, the user understands that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level and that it is the right time to supply water.

[0080] The water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is higher than the first water level if the capacitance is greater than the first predetermined value (No. in S004). Next, the determination unit 43 determines whether the cumulative discharge amount calculated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is greater than or equal to the third water volume while the capacitance is greater than the first predetermined value (S006). If the cumulative discharge amount calculated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is less than the third water volume while the capacitance is greater than the first predetermined value, the process returns to step S004 (No. in S006 → S004).

[0081] Furthermore, if the capacitance is greater than the first predetermined value, and the cumulative discharge amount calculated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is greater than or equal to the third water volume, the determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19) and that the water level determination accuracy by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated (Yes in S006).

[0082] The reason for making the above determination will be explained. If the cumulative discharge amount calculated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is greater than or equal to the third water volume, the actual water level in the electrolytic cell 5 should be below the first water level. Nevertheless, the capacitance is greater than the first predetermined value, and the water level determination unit 41 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is higher than the first water level. In other words, even though the actual water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level, the water level determination unit 41 makes the incorrect determination that it is higher than the first water level. This incorrect determination is due to the deposition of scale on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19), as mentioned above. This is because the scale retains water, increasing the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 17. In other words, even though the actual water level in the electrolytic cell 5 has fallen to the first water level, the water-retaining scale increases the capacitance, preventing it from falling below the first predetermined value, and the water level determination unit 41 incorrectly determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 has not fallen to the first water level.

[0083] Therefore, in the present invention, when the capacitance is greater than a first predetermined value, if the cumulative discharge amount calculated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is greater than or equal to the third water volume, the determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19) and that the accuracy of water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated. In other words, if the water level expected to be the first water level when the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is discharged from the electrolytic cell 5 is the first water level, and the water level determined by the water level determination unit 41 is greater than the first water level, the determination unit 43 determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19) and that the accuracy of water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated.

[0084] In other words, if the water level determined by the water level determination unit 41 is greater than the first water level, and the water level expected to be reached when the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit 42 is discharged from the electrolytic cell 5 is below the first water level, then the determination unit 43 will determine that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19) and that the accuracy of the water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated.

[0085] This allows for accurate determination of whether scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface 20 (flat portion 19). It also allows for determination of whether the accuracy of the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated. Furthermore, it allows for determination of whether maintenance is required to remove the scale present in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0086] If the water level determination unit 41 determines that the accuracy of water level determination has deteriorated, the notification control unit 44 notifies the user via the notification unit 8 that maintenance is required to remove scale from the opposing side surface 20 (flat surface 19), and that water supply is required after the maintenance (S007). This allows the user to understand that maintenance is required to remove scale present on the opposing side surface 20 (flat surface 19) of the electrolytic cell 5. They can also understand that water supply is required to the electrolytic cell 5 (water supply tank 9). Furthermore, even if there are variations between devices, differences in installation environment, or differences in water quality, notifications prompting maintenance at the appropriate time can be made. Thus, user convenience regarding maintenance can be improved.

[0087] Thus, the present invention can determine that the accuracy of water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has deteriorated if step S007 is reached, and that the accuracy of water level determination by the water level determination unit 41 has not deteriorated if step S005 is reached.

[0088] Although the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, it can be easily inferred that the present invention is not limited in any way and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0089] (Summary of the invention) The air purification device according to the present invention comprises a main body case having an intake port and an outlet port, a blower unit that guides air from the intake port to the outlet port, and an electrolytic cell that is detachable from the main body case and mixes an electrolytic accelerator and water. An electrode unit that generates hypochlorous acid water from an electrolytic accelerator and water mixed in an electrolytic cell; an electrostatic sensor whose capacitance changes based on the amount of liquid in the electrolytic cell; a water level determination unit that determines the liquid level in the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor; a discharge amount estimation unit that estimates the amount of liquid discharged from the electrolytic cell; and a judgment unit that determines whether or not scale has precipitated in the electrolytic cell based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit and the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit. It includes a determination section, which allows for appropriate determination of whether or not the device is in a precipitated state where scale has precipitated.

[0090] Furthermore, the main case may include a partition wall that separates the electrostatic sensor space, where the electrostatic sensor is installed, from the electrolytic cell space, where the electrolytic cell is installed. This helps to suppress corrosion of the electrostatic sensor.

[0091] Furthermore, the partition wall may isolate the electrostatic sensor space and the electrolytic cell space to prevent the volatilized hypochlorous acid from passing through. This can suppress corrosion of the components within the electrostatic sensor space.

[0092] Furthermore, the electrostatic sensor may be positioned opposite the side of the electrolytic cell. This allows the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor to be changed in response to changes in the water volume of the electrolytic cell.

[0093] Furthermore, if the side of the electrolytic cell opposite the electrostatic sensor is considered the opposing side, the determination unit may determine that if the water level determined by the water level determination unit is higher than the water level expected when the amount of discharge estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit is discharged from the electrolytic cell, then scale has precipitated on the opposing side and the accuracy of the water level determination unit has deteriorated. This allows the system to understand that scale has precipitated on the opposing side and that the accuracy of the water level determination unit has deteriorated.

[0094] Furthermore, the electrolytic cell may be equipped with a distance-changing section that alters the distance between the electrostatic sensor and the liquid in the electrolytic cell at the first water level, and the distance between the electrostatic sensor and the water in the electrolytic cell at a second water level higher than the first water level. This increases the difference between the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor at the first water level and the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor at the second water level. In other words, it improves the accuracy of determining the first water level.

[0095] Furthermore, the distance-changing section may be a recessed portion of the electrolytic cell, where the opposing side of the electrolytic cell facing the electrostatic sensor is recessed inward. This allows for a larger difference between the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor at the first water level and the capacitance detected at the second water level. In other words, the accuracy of determining the first water level can be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the upper surface of the recessed portion may have a flat section. This makes the change in capacitance of the electrostatic sensor in response to changes in water volume near the flat section steeper, thereby improving the accuracy of water level determination in the electrolytic cell.

[0097] Furthermore, the flat section may be inclined downward from the opposite side of the electrolytic cell toward the inside of the electrolytic cell. This can suppress water from accumulating in the flat section and improve the accuracy of water level determination in the electrolytic cell.

[0098] Furthermore, the discharge amount estimation unit may estimate the discharge amount based on the temperature of a predetermined space, the humidity of the predetermined space, and the airflow rate of the blower. This makes it possible to determine the amount of discharge into the predetermined space, i.e., the amount of water reduced in the electrolytic cell.

[0099] Furthermore, the first water level may be the water level in the electrolytic cell that indicates a drought condition where there is insufficient liquid. This allows for highly accurate determination of the drought condition in the electrolytic cell.

[0100] Furthermore, the determination unit may determine that if the amount of discharge estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit is discharged from the electrolytic cell and the resulting water level is the first water level, then if the water level determined by the water level determination unit is greater than the first water level, scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface and the accuracy of the water level determination unit's water level determination has deteriorated. This allows the determination that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface and the accuracy of the water level determination unit's water level determination has deteriorated.

[0101] Furthermore, if the determination unit determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface and the water level determination unit's accuracy has deteriorated, the system may be equipped with a notification unit that notifies the user that maintenance is required to remove the scale from the opposing side surface. This allows the user to be notified that maintenance is required to remove the scale when it has precipitated. In addition, it is possible to notify the user to perform maintenance at an appropriate time when scale has precipitated, given the different installation conditions for each piece of equipment. In other words, it is possible to improve user convenience regarding maintenance. [Industrial applicability]

[0102] The space purification device according to the present invention is useful as a space purification device that purifies the space. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0103] D. Air purification device 1. Main unit case 2. Inlet 3 Panels 5 Electrolytic cell 6 Air outlet 8 Hochi Department 9. Water storage tank 10 Lid 12. Air blower 13 Wind path 14 Electrode section 15 Purification section 16 Bulkhead 17. Electrostatic recovery 18 Distance change section 19 Flat area 20 Opposite side 21. Concave portion 22 Ministry of Control 31 Static Electricity Space 32 Electrolytic cell space 41 Water Level Judgment Department 42. Emission Estimation Department 43 Judgment Department 44 Report to the Control Department 45. Memory Department 100 in front After 101 102 First side view 103 Second side view 104 above 105 below

Claims

1. A main body case having an intake port and an outlet port, A blower unit that guides air from the intake port to the outlet port, The electrolytic cell, which is detachable from the main body case and mixes an electrolytic accelerator with water, An electrode unit that generates hypochlorous acid water from the electrolysis accelerator and water mixed in the electrolytic cell, An electrostatic sensor whose capacitance changes based on the amount of liquid in the electrolytic cell, A water level determination unit that determines the water level of the liquid in the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor, A discharge amount estimation unit that estimates the amount of liquid discharged from the electrolytic cell, A space purification device comprising: a determination unit that determines whether or not the electrolytic cell is in a precipitated state, based on the water level determined by the water level determination unit and the discharge amount estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit.

2. The aforementioned main body case is The space purification device according to claim 1, further comprising a partition wall that separates the electrostatic sensor space in which the electrostatic sensor is provided from the electrolytic cell space in which the electrolytic cell is provided.

3. The aforementioned partition wall portion is The space purification device according to claim 2, wherein the electrostatic sensor space and the electrolytic cell space are isolated so that volatile hypochlorous acid cannot pass through.

4. The electrostatic sensor is The air purification device according to claim 1, provided at a position opposite to the side surface of the electrolytic cell.

5. If the side surface of the electrolytic cell facing the electrostatic sensor is defined as the opposing side surface, The determination unit, The air purification device according to claim 4, wherein if the water level determined by the water level determination unit is higher than the water level expected when the amount of discharge estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit is discharged from the electrolytic cell, it is determined that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface and that the accuracy of the water level determination by the water level determination unit has deteriorated.

6. The electrolytic cell is The air purification device according to claim 1 or 5, comprising a distance changing unit that changes the distance between the electrostatic sensor and the liquid in the electrolytic cell at a first water level, and the distance between the electrostatic sensor and the water in the electrolytic cell at a second water level higher than the first water level.

7. The distance changing unit is The air purification device according to claim 6, wherein the opposing side surface of the electrolytic cell facing the electrostatic sensor is a recessed portion that is recessed inward of the electrolytic cell.

8. The air purification device according to claim 7, wherein the upper surface of the recessed portion has a flat surface.

9. The air purification device according to claim 8, wherein the flat portion is inclined downward toward the inward direction of the electrolytic cell from the opposing side surface of the electrolytic cell.

10. The aforementioned discharge amount estimation unit, The space purification device according to claim 1, which estimates the amount of discharge based on the temperature of a predetermined space, the humidity of the predetermined space, and the airflow rate of the air blower.

11. The air purification device according to claim 6, wherein the first water level is the water level in the electrolytic cell in a drought state where there is insufficient liquid.

12. The determination unit, The air purification device according to claim 6, wherein if the amount of discharge estimated by the discharge amount estimation unit is the amount of water expected to be discharged from the electrolytic cell and the water level determined by the water level determination unit is greater than the first water level, then it is determined that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface and the accuracy of the water level determination by the water level determination unit has deteriorated.

13. The air purification device according to claim 5, further comprising a notification unit that notifies that maintenance is required to remove scale from the opposing side surface when the determination unit determines that scale has precipitated on the opposing side surface and the accuracy of the water level determination unit has deteriorated.

Images