Flowing water sterilization device

Abstract

To improve the reliability of the flowing water sterilization system. [Solution] The flow water sterilization device 10 comprises a flow path housing 12 having an internal space 20 through which water to be treated flows, a reactor 14 disposed in the internal space 20 and having a treatment chamber 42 for containing the water to be treated, and a light source unit 16 disposed in the internal space 20 and irradiating the water to be treated in the treatment chamber 42 with ultraviolet light 18. The reactor 14 has a facing portion 50 that faces the light source unit 16 in a predetermined axial direction. The facing portion 50 comprises a main opening 52 that extends axially between the treatment chamber 42 and the light source unit 16 and allows ultraviolet light 18 to pass through, and an engaging portion 54 that engages with the light source unit 16 and restricts the displacement of the light source unit 16 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a flowing water sterilization device.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a flowing water sterilization device that irradiates treated water with ultraviolet light for sterilization treatment. For example, a retention space for the treated water is provided at the center of a housing, and the treated water is irradiated with ultraviolet light from LEDs arranged on the central axis inside the housing. Wiring for driving the LEDs is taken out to the outside through a wiring pipe provided at a position offset from the central axis (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above prior art, the positioning of the partition wall having the retention space is not mentioned. For example, if the partition wall is assembled with a deviation from the LEDs or is displaced due to water pressure or the like during use, the treated water flowing through the retention space cannot be appropriately irradiated with ultraviolet light, and there is a possibility that the intended sterilization performance cannot be exhibited.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an exemplary object thereof is to provide a technique for improving the reliability of a flowing water sterilization device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A flowing water sterilization apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a flow path housing having an internal space through which water to be treated flows, a reactor disposed in the internal space and having a treatment chamber for containing the water to be treated, and a light source unit disposed in the internal space for irradiating the water to be treated in the treatment chamber with ultraviolet light. The reactor has a facing portion that faces the light source unit in a predetermined axial direction. The facing portion includes a main opening that extends axially between the treatment chamber and the light source unit and allows ultraviolet light to pass through, and an engaging portion that engages with the light source unit and restricts the displacement of the light source unit in a radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the reliability of a water sterilization device can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a water sterilization device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the light source unit. [Figure 3] This is a schematic plan view showing the opposing sections of the reactor. [Figure 4] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a water sterilization device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a water sterilization device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a schematic plan view showing the opposing sections of the reactor. [Figure 7] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a flowing water sterilization device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a schematic plan view showing the opposing sections of the reactor. [Figure 9] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a flowing water sterilization device according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a schematic plan view showing the opposing sections of the reactor. [Figure 11] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a water sterilization device according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a schematic plan view showing the opposing sections of the reactor. [Figure 13] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a water sterilization device according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a schematic plan view showing the opposing sections of the reactor. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate. To aid in understanding the description, the dimensional ratios of each component in each drawing do not necessarily correspond to the actual dimensional ratios.

[0010] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a flowing water sterilization device 10 according to the first embodiment. The flowing water sterilization device 10 comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14, and a light source unit 16. The flowing water sterilization device 10 sterilizes the water to be treated by irradiating it with ultraviolet light 18 flowing inside the reactor 14.

[0011] The flow path housing 12 has an internal space 20 through which the water to be treated flows. The flow path housing 12 has a first flow port 22 and a second flow port 24. The internal space 20 is located between the first flow port 22 and the second flow port 24 and communicates with the first flow port 22 and the second flow port 24. The flow path housing 12 is made of a resin material or a metal material. The flow path housing 12 is made of a resin material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0012] In the example shown in Figure 1, the first flow port 22 is the inlet and the second flow port 24 is the outlet. However, the inlet and outlet may be reversed, the second flow port 24 may be the inlet, and the first flow port 22 may be the outlet.

[0013] In FIG. 1, the optical axis direction of the ultraviolet light 18 output from the light source unit 16 is defined as the z direction, and the directions orthogonal to the z direction are defined as the x direction and the y direction. In this specification, the z direction may be referred to as the axial direction, the direction away from the central axis of the light source unit 16 may be referred to as the radial direction, and the direction orthogonal to the axial direction and the radial direction may be referred to as the circumferential direction. The circumferential direction can also be said to be the direction around the axial direction. The axial direction can be defined, for example, by the direction in which the reactor 14 and the light source unit 16 face each other. Further, the direction from the first flow port 22 to the second flow port 24 may be referred to as the upper side, and the direction from the second flow port 24 to the first flow port 22 may be referred to as the lower side. However, these directions do not limit the orientation of the flowing water sterilization apparatus 10 during use in any way.

[0014] The flow path housing 12 can include a bottom portion 26 having the first flow port 22, a dome portion 28 having the second flow port 24, and a connecting portion 30 connecting between the bottom portion 26 and the dome portion 28. The light source unit 16 can be disposed on the bottom portion 26. The reactor 14 can be disposed on the dome portion 28. The connecting portion 30 can extend cylindrically in the axial direction from the outer periphery of the bottom portion 26 toward the dome portion 28.

[0015] The flow path housing 12 may be formed by coupling a first housing 12a and a second housing 12b. The first housing 12a can include at least the bottom portion 26, and the second housing 12b can include at least the dome portion 28. The connecting portion 30 may be provided in the first housing 12a or may be provided in the second housing 12b. A part of the connecting portion 30 may be provided in the first housing 12a and the remainder of the connecting portion 30 may be provided in the second housing 12b. The coupling method of the first housing 12a and the second housing 12b is not particularly limited, and for example, they can be coupled by welding, fusion bonding or screwing.

[0016] The flow path housing 12 may include at least one support member 32 extending axially from the inner surface of the flow path housing 12. The support member 32 extends axially from, for example, the bottom 26 of the flow path housing 12. The support member 32 supports the light source unit 16 by abutting against it. The at least one support member 32 may include two or more support members 32, or three or more support members 32, or for example, four support members 32.

[0017] The flow path housing 12 may include a base 34 that protrudes axially from the flow path housing 12. The base 34 protrudes axially, for example, from the bottom 26 of the flow path housing 12. The base 34 has a flat surface facing the light source unit 16. A wiring port 36 is provided in the center of the base 34. The wiring port 36 extends axially, for example, through the bottom 26 of the flow path housing 12. Wiring 38 extending from the light source unit 16 is inserted through the wiring port 36.

[0018] A sealing member 40, such as an O-ring, is provided between the light source unit 16 and the base 34. The sealing member 40 prevents the treated water from entering the wiring port 36. The sealing member 40 is positioned around the outer circumference of the wiring port 36. The base 34 provides a ring-shaped flat surface to support the sealing member 40, ensuring that the sealing member 40 is uniformly compressed between the light source unit 16 and the base 34. This ensures that the wiring port 36 is properly sealed by the sealing member 40.

[0019] The reactor 14 is located in the internal space 20. The reactor 14 has a treatment chamber 42 for containing the water to be treated. The treatment chamber 42 is, for example, a spherical space. The inner surface 44 defining the treatment chamber 42 is composed of a concave curved surface such as a sphere. The reactor 14 may have a spherical outer shape.

[0020] The reactor 14 has a third flow port 46 and a fourth flow port 48. The third flow port 46 and the fourth flow port 48 are located at the top of the reactor 14. The third flow port 46 is located in a position that communicates with the second flow port 24. The third flow port 46 is located between the second flow port 24 and the treatment chamber 42. The third flow port 46 is configured to guide, for example, the water to be treated inside the treatment chamber 42 to the second flow port 24. The fourth flow port 48 is located in a different position from the third flow port 46 and is located in a position that does not communicate with the second flow port 24. The fourth flow port 48 is located between the internal space 20 and the treatment chamber 42. The fourth flow port 48 is configured to guide, for example, the water to be treated flowing through the internal space 20 to the treatment chamber 42.

[0021] The reactor 14 is made of a material with high reflectivity to ultraviolet light 18, such as a fluororesin such as polytetrafluoroethylene. By providing the reactor 14, the ultraviolet light 18 is reflected by the inner surface 44 of the reactor 14, improving the amount of ultraviolet light 18 that acts on the water to be treated flowing through the treatment chamber 42. In addition, by providing the reactor 14, the water to be treated can be guided to the vicinity of the center O of the treatment chamber 42, where the amount of ultraviolet light 18 irradiation is relatively high.

[0022] The reactor 14 has an opposing portion 50 that faces the light source unit 16. The opposing portion 50 is the lower or bottom portion of the reactor 14. The opposing portion 50 is configured to contact the light source unit 16 in the axial direction and press the light source unit 16 in the axial direction. In this way, the opposing portion 50 positions the light source unit 16 in the axial direction. The opposing portion 50 presses the light source unit 16 toward the base 34, causing the sealing member 40 to be compressed to a predetermined thickness. The opposing portion 50 includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54, and a contact surface 56.

[0023] The main aperture 52 is located between the processing chamber 42 and the light source unit 16 and extends in the axial direction. The main aperture 52 allows ultraviolet light 18 from the light source unit 16 to pass through and guides the ultraviolet light 18 into the processing chamber 42. The main aperture 52 is located, for example, at a position coaxial with the central axis C that extends axially through the center O of the processing chamber 42.

[0024] The engaging portion 54 is configured to engage with the light source unit 16 and restrict the radial displacement of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54 protrudes axially from the opposing portion 50 toward the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54 extends in a ring shape circumferentially along the outer circumference of the main opening 52. The ring shape of the engaging portion 54 is, for example, coaxial with the central axis C of the processing chamber 42. The engaging portion 54 positions the light source unit 16 so that it is positioned coaxially with the central axis C. The engaging portion 54 can be configured to be spaced axially away from the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54 can be configured not to press the light source unit 16 in the axial direction.

[0025] The contact surface 56 contacts the light source unit 16 and presses against it in the axial direction. The contact surface 56 is located radially outward of the engaging portion 54.

[0026] The light source unit 16 comprises a light-emitting element 60, a light source housing 62, and a window member 64.

[0027] The light-emitting element 60 emits ultraviolet light 18. The light-emitting element 60 is a semiconductor light-emitting element using, for example, aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN), and is, for example, a UV LED (UltraViolet Light Emitting Diode). The wavelength of the ultraviolet light 18 is, for example, 200 nm to 320 nm, and for example, 240 nm to 280 nm. The light-emitting element 60 can be mounted on a substrate 66. The light source unit 16 may include a plurality of light-emitting elements 60 mounted on the substrate 66.

[0028] The substrate 66 supports the light-emitting element 60. The substrate 66 is connected to wiring 38 for supplying drive current and control signals to the light-emitting element 60 from an external source. The wiring 38 is connected to the substrate 66, for example, via a connector (not shown) provided on the substrate 66. The substrate 66 is mounted inside the light source housing 62 and transfers the heat generated when the light-emitting element 60 is lit to the light source housing 62. The substrate 66 is preferably made of a substrate material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or copper. A highly thermally conductive material (not shown), such as thermal grease, may be placed between the substrate 66 and the light source housing 62.

[0029] The light source housing 62 houses the light-emitting element 60. The light source housing 62 has an irradiation port 68 that allows ultraviolet light 18 emitted from the light-emitting element 60 to pass through. The irradiation port 68 is sealed watertight by a window member 64 and a sealing member (not shown). The light source housing 62 may have a cable guide 70 for bringing wiring 38 connected to the substrate 66 to the outside. The cable guide 70 extends axially and is inserted into the wiring port 36 of the flow path housing 12. The light source housing 62 is made of a metallic material such as stainless steel, copper, or aluminum. The light source housing 62 transfers the heat generated when the light-emitting element 60 is lit to the water to be treated.

[0030] The window member 64 is made of a material that transmits ultraviolet light 18, such as quartz (SiO2), sapphire (Al2O3), or amorphous fluororesin. The window member 64 is provided to cover the irradiation opening 68 and is supported by the light source housing 62. A sealing member (not shown), such as a gasket, can be provided between the window member 64 and the light source housing 62.

[0031] The light source unit 16 has a stepped portion provided on the outside of the window member 64. The stepped portion can be formed by the inner circumferential surface 72 of the irradiation port 68. The inner circumferential surface 72 of the irradiation port 68 faces radially opposite the engaging portion 54 of the reactor 14 and engages with the engaging portion 54. As a result, the light source unit 16 is positioned such that, for example, the inner circumferential surface 72 of the irradiation port 68 is coaxial with the central axis C.

[0032] The light source unit 16 has an upper surface 74 that faces the opposing portion 50 of the reactor 14 in the axial direction. The upper surface 74 is provided, for example, on the light source housing 62. The upper surface 74 is provided radially outward from the inner circumferential surface 72 of the light source unit 16. The upper surface 74 is provided radially inward from the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source housing 62. The upper surface 74 contacts the contact surface 56 of the opposing portion 50 and is pressed axially by the opposing portion 50.

[0033] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the light source unit 16, and shows a front view of the illumination port 68 in the axial direction. As shown in Figure 2, the inner circumferential surface 72 of the illumination port 68 is circular. Similarly, the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source housing 62 is circular. The upper surface 74 provided between the inner circumferential surface 72 and the outer circumferential surface 76 is ring-shaped. Note that the shape of the inner circumferential surface 72 of the illumination port 68 and the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source housing 62 is not limited to a circle, but may have polygonal shapes such as a square or hexagon, or may have an elliptical shape.

[0034] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view showing the opposing portion 50 of the reactor 14. In Figure 3, the irradiation port 68 of the light source unit 16 is shown by a dashed line. As shown in Figure 3, the main opening 52 is circular in shape. The engaging portion 54 is formed in a ring shape along the outer circumference of the main opening 52. The engaging portion 54 has a shape corresponding to the irradiation port 68. The engaging portion 54 faces the inner circumferential surface 72 of the irradiation port 68 in the radial direction, and a small clearance d1 is provided between it and the inner circumferential surface 72. The clearance d1 is set considering manufacturing tolerances, etc., and is set, for example, to 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less. The contact surface 56 is formed in a ring shape on the radially outer side of the engaging portion 54.

[0035] Next, the operation of the flow water sterilization device 10 will be described. The water to be treated flows into the interior of the flow channel housing 12 from the first flow port 22 and flows toward the bottom of the light source unit 16. As a result, the light source unit 16 can be efficiently cooled by the water to be treated that flows toward it. The water to be treated passes through the gap between the flow channel housing 12 and the reactor 14 toward the fourth flow port 48. The water to be treated flows from the outside of the reactor 14 into the treatment chamber 42 through the fourth flow port 48. The water to be treated flowing through the treatment chamber 42 is sterilized by irradiation with ultraviolet light 18 from the light source unit 16. The water to be treated that has been irradiated with ultraviolet light 18 flows out of the flow channel housing 12 through the third flow port 46 and the second flow port 24. Since there is no substantial gap formed between the reactor 14 and the light source unit 16, there is virtually no water to be treated flowing into the interior of the treatment chamber 42 through the main opening 52.

[0036] Next, the assembly method of the flowing water sterilization device 10 will be described. First, prepare the first housing 12a and the second housing 12b. Next, place the light source unit 16 on the bottom 26 of the first housing 12a and place the reactor 14 on the dome portion 28 of the second housing 12b. Then, combine the reactor 14 and the light source unit 16 so that the engaging portion 54 of the reactor 14 engages with the irradiation port 68 of the light source unit 16. After that, by joining the first housing 12a and the second housing 12b, the flowing water sterilization device 10 shown in Figure 1 can be completed.

[0037] According to this embodiment, the reactor 14 and the light source unit 16 are positioned coaxially by the engaging portion 54, preventing the light source unit 16 from being misaligned with respect to the central axis C of the reactor 14. As a result, it becomes possible to irradiate the vicinity of the center O of the reactor 14 with high-intensity ultraviolet light 18, thereby suppressing a decrease in irradiation efficiency in the processing chamber 42. Furthermore, by directly engaging the reactor 14 and the light source unit 16, the structure for positioning the reactor 14 and the light source unit 16 can be simplified, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the flowing water sterilization device 10.

[0038] According to this embodiment, since the opposing portion 50 of the reactor 14 is spaced apart from the window member 64, it is possible to prevent the window member 64 from being pressed by the opposing portion 50. This suppresses damage to the window member 64 due to unintended forces and a decrease in the sealing performance between the light source housing 62 and the window member 64. This improves the reliability of the flowing water sterilization device 10.

[0039] (Second Embodiment) Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the flowing water sterilization device 10A in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the structure of the opposing portion 50A of the reactor 14A differs from that of the first embodiment described above. Hereinafter, the flowing water sterilization device 10A according to the second embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment described above, and the explanation of common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0040] The flowing water sterilization device 10A comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14A, and a light source unit 16. The flow path housing 12 and the light source unit 16 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0041] The reactor 14A has an opposing portion 50A. The opposing portion 50A includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54A, and an opposing surface 56A. The main opening 52 is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0042] The engaging portion 54A engages with the light source unit 16 to restrict the radial displacement of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54A protrudes axially from the opposing portion 50A toward the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54A extends in a ring shape circumferentially along the outer circumference of the main opening 52. The engaging portion 54A is configured to contact the window member 64 in the axial direction and press the window member 64 in the axial direction.

[0043] The opposing surface 56A is located radially outward from the engaging portion 54A and faces the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62. The opposing surface 56A is spaced apart from the light source unit 16 and does not come into contact with the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62.

[0044] According to this embodiment, the engaging portion 54A positions the reactor 14A and the light source unit 16 coaxially, thus preventing the light source unit 16 from being misaligned with respect to the central axis C of the reactor 14A.

[0045] According to this embodiment, the window member 64 is pressed in the axial direction by the engaging portion 54A. For example, if a sealing member (not shown) that seals the space between the light source housing 62 and the window member 64 is positioned below the window member 64, pressing the window member 64 can improve the sealing performance between the light source housing 62 and the window member 64. This improves the reliability of the flowing water sterilization device 10.

[0046] (Third embodiment) Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the flowing water sterilization device 10B according to the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, the structure of the opposing portion 50B of the reactor 14B differs from that of the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the flowing water sterilization device 10B according to the third embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment, and the explanation of common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0047] The flowing water sterilization device 10B comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14B, and a light source unit 16. The flow path housing 12 and the light source unit 16 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0048] The reactor 14B has an opposing portion 50B. The opposing portion 50B includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54B, and a contact surface 56B. The main opening 52 is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0049] The engaging portion 54B engages with the light source unit 16 to restrict the radial displacement of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54B protrudes axially from the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50B. The engaging portion 54B extends in a ring shape circumferentially along the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50B. The ring shape of the engaging portion 54B is provided, for example, coaxial with the central axis C of the processing chamber 42. The engaging portion 54B is configured to face the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16 in the radial direction and to engage with the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16.

[0050] The contact surface 56B contacts the light source unit 16 and presses the light source unit 16 in the axial direction. The contact surface 56B is provided radially inward of the engaging portion 54B. The contact surface 56B is provided between the main opening 52 and the engaging portion 54B and extends in a ring shape in the circumferential direction. The contact surface 56B contacts, for example, the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62 in the axial direction.

[0051] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view showing the opposing portion 50B of the reactor 14B. In Figure 6, the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16 is shown by a dashed line. As shown in Figure 6, the engaging portion 54B is formed in a ring shape along the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50B. The engaging portion 54B has a shape corresponding to the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54B faces the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16 in the radial direction, and a small clearance d2 is provided between it and the outer circumferential surface 76. The clearance d2 is set considering manufacturing tolerances, etc., and is set, for example, to 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less. The contact surface 56B is formed in a ring shape between the main opening 52 and the engaging portion 54B.

[0052] According to this embodiment, the same effects as the first embodiment described above can be achieved. According to this embodiment, since the engaging portion 54B is provided on the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50B, it becomes easy to increase the aperture size of the main aperture 52. For example, if the light source unit 16 includes a plurality of light-emitting elements 60 and the plurality of light-emitting elements 60 are arranged in an array, the aperture size of the main aperture 52 can be increased in proportion to the area in which the plurality of light-emitting elements 60 are arranged. As a result, ultraviolet light 18 from the light source unit 16 can be efficiently guided to the processing chamber 42, and a decrease in irradiation efficiency in the processing chamber 42 can be suppressed.

[0053] (Fourth embodiment) Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the flowing water sterilization device 10C according to the fourth embodiment. The fourth embodiment differs from the above-described embodiment in that the reactor 14C does not have a fourth flow port 48, and the water to be treated flows between the reactor 14C and the light source unit 16. Hereinafter, the flowing water sterilization device 10C according to the fourth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment, and the explanation of common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0054] The flowing water sterilization device 10C comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14C, and a light source unit 16. The flow path housing 12 and the light source unit 16 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0055] The reactor 14C has an opposing portion 50C. The opposing portion 50C includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54, a contact surface 56C, and a recess 58. The main opening 52 and the engaging portion 54 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0056] The contact surface 56C contacts the light source unit 16 and presses the light source unit 16 in the axial direction. The contact surface 56C is located radially outward of the engaging portion 54. Therefore, the engaging portion 54 is located between the main opening 52 and the contact surface 56C. The contact surface 56C contacts, for example, the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62 in the axial direction.

[0057] The recess 58 is formed to be recessed relative to the contact surface 56C. The recess 58 is located radially outward of the engaging portion 54. Therefore, the engaging portion 54 is located between the main opening 52 and the recess 58. The recess 58 is spaced apart from the light source unit 16. The space between the recess 58 and the light source unit 16 becomes a flow path for the water to be treated. The water to be treated, flowing through the internal space 20 outside the reactor 14C, passes through the recess 58, through the gap between the engaging portion 54 and the light source unit 16, through the main opening 52, and flows into the processing chamber 42.

[0058] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view showing the opposing portion 50C of the reactor 14C. Figure 8 corresponds to Figure 3 of the first embodiment described above, and the irradiation port 68 of the light source unit 16 is shown by a dashed line. As shown in Figure 8, the main opening 52 is circular in shape. The engaging portion 54 is formed in a ring shape along the outer circumference of the main opening 52 and has a shape corresponding to the irradiation port 68.

[0059] The opposing section 50C includes a plurality of contact surfaces 56C and a plurality of recesses 58. The plurality of recesses 58 are provided at positions different from the plurality of contact surfaces 56C in the circumferential direction. The plurality of contact surfaces 56C and the plurality of recesses 58 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. Each of the plurality of contact surfaces 56C and the plurality of recesses 58 is formed to have, for example, a fan shape. In the example shown in Figure 8, three contact surfaces 56C and three recesses 58 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The number of contact surfaces 56C and recesses 58 is not particularly limited and may be two or fewer, or four or more. In the example shown in Figure 8, the plurality of contact surfaces 56C and the plurality of recesses 58 are arranged at equal angles (e.g., 60 degrees), but the angular ranges occupied by each of the contact surfaces 56C and recesses 58 may be different. The water to be treated passes through the recesses 58 toward the main opening 52, as indicated by the arrows.

[0060] This embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment described above. In this embodiment, by providing a recess 58 in the opposing portion 50C, the water to be treated can flow through the recess 58 to the main opening 52, and the water to be treated can be irradiated with ultraviolet light 18 of higher intensity. This improves the sterilization performance. Furthermore, by providing the engaging portion 54 between the main opening 52 and the recess 58, the water to be treated can flow through the gap between the window member 64 and the engaging portion 54, and the flow of the water to be treated can be straightened. This improves the sterilization performance. In addition, by providing the recess 58 at a position different in the circumferential direction from the contact surface 56C, it is possible to achieve both the flow of the water to be treated in the recess 58 and the axial positioning of the light source unit 16 by the contact surface 56C.

[0061] (Fifth embodiment) Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the flowing water sterilization device 10D according to the fifth embodiment. Similar to the fourth embodiment, the fifth embodiment does not have a fourth flow port 48 in the reactor 14D, and is configured so that the water to be treated flows between the reactor 14D and the light source unit 16. The configuration of the opposing part 50D in the fifth embodiment differs from that of the fourth embodiment described above. Hereinafter, the flowing water sterilization device 10D according to the fifth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the embodiments described above, and the explanation of common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0062] The flowing water sterilization device 10D comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14D, and a light source unit 16. The flow path housing 12 and the light source unit 16 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0063] The reactor 14D has an opposing portion 50D. The opposing portion 50D includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54D, a contact surface 56D, and a recess 58D. The main opening 52 is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0064] The engaging portion 54D engages with the light source unit 16 to restrict the radial displacement of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54D protrudes axially from the opposing portion 50D toward the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54D faces radially toward the inner circumferential surface 72 of the irradiation port 68. The engaging portion 54D is spaced axially away from the window member 64 and is configured not to press the window member 64 in the axial direction.

[0065] The contact surface 56D contacts the light source unit 16 and presses the light source unit 16 in the axial direction. The contact surface 56D is located radially outward of the engaging portion 54. Therefore, the engaging portion 54 is located between the main opening 52 and the contact surface 56D. The contact surface 56D contacts, for example, the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62 in the axial direction.

[0066] The recess 58D is formed to be recessed relative to the contact surface 56D. The recess 58D is formed to extend radially from the outer circumference of the main opening 52 to the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50D. The recess 58D is spaced apart from the light source unit 16. The space between the recess 58D and the light source unit 16 becomes a flow path for the water to be treated. The water to be treated, flowing through the internal space 20 outside the reactor 14D, for example, passes through the recess 58D and the main opening 52 and flows into the treatment chamber 42.

[0067] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view showing the opposing portion 50D of the reactor 14D. Figure 10 corresponds to Figure 8 of the fourth embodiment described above, and the irradiation port 68 of the light source unit 16 is shown by a dashed line. As shown in Figure 10, the main opening 52 is circular in shape. The opposing portion 50D includes a plurality of engaging portions 54D, a plurality of contact surfaces 56D, and a plurality of recesses 58D. Each of the engaging portions 54D, contact surfaces 56D, and recesses 58D is formed to have, for example, a fan shape.

[0068] Multiple engagement portions 54D and multiple contact surfaces 56D are provided at common positions in the circumferential direction. Multiple contact surfaces 56D are provided radially outward from the multiple engagement portions 54D. Multiple recesses 58D are provided at positions different from the multiple engagement portions 54D and multiple contact surfaces 56D in the circumferential direction. Multiple pairs of engagement portions 54D and contact surfaces 56D are arranged alternately with the multiple recesses 58D in the circumferential direction.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 10, three pairs of engaging portions 54D and contact surfaces 56D, and three recesses 58D are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The number of engaging portions 54D, contact surfaces 56D, and recesses 58D is not particularly limited; there may be two or fewer, or four or more. In the example shown in Figure 10, the multiple pairs of engaging portions 54D and contact surfaces 56D and the multiple recesses 58D are arranged at equal angles (e.g., 60 degrees), but the angular ranges occupied by each of the engaging portions 54D, contact surfaces 56D, and recesses 58D may be different. The water to be treated passes through the recesses 58D toward the main opening 52, as indicated by the arrows.

[0070] According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be achieved. According to this embodiment, by providing the recess 58D at a position different in the circumferential direction from the contact surface 56D, it is possible to achieve both the flow of water to be treated in the recess 58D and the axial positioning of the light source unit 16 by the contact surface 56D. Furthermore, by providing the recess 58D at a position different in the circumferential direction from the engaging portion 54D, it is possible to achieve both the flow of water to be treated in the recess 58D and the radial positioning of the light source unit 16 by the engaging portion 54D.

[0071] (Sixth embodiment) Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the flowing water sterilization device 10E according to the sixth embodiment. Similar to the fourth embodiment, the sixth embodiment does not have a fourth flow port 48 in the reactor 14E, and is configured so that the water to be treated flows between the reactor 14E and the light source unit 16. The configuration of the opposing part 50E in the sixth embodiment differs from that of the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the flowing water sterilization device 10E according to the sixth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment, and the explanation of common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0072] The flowing water sterilization device 10E comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14E, and a light source unit 16. The flow path housing 12 and the light source unit 16 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0073] The reactor 14E has an opposing portion 50E. The opposing portion 50E includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54E, an opposing surface 56E, and a recess 58E. The main opening 52 is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0074] The engaging portion 54E engages with the light source unit 16 to restrict the radial displacement of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54E protrudes axially from the opposing portion 50E toward the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54E faces radially toward the inner circumferential surface 72 of the irradiation port 68. The engaging portion 54E is in axial contact with the window member 64 and is configured to press the window member 64 in the axial direction.

[0075] The opposing surface 56E is located radially outward from the engaging portion 54E. Therefore, the engaging portion 54E is located between the main opening 52 and the opposing surface 56E. It faces the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62. The opposing surface 56E is spaced apart from the light source unit 16 and does not contact the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62.

[0076] The recess 58E is formed to be recessed at least with respect to the engaging portion 54E. The recess 58E is located radially inward of the opposing surface 56E. Therefore, the recess 58E is located between the main opening 52 and the opposing surface 56E. The recess 58E is formed to be flush with the opposing surface 56E at the same height, for example. The recess 58E may also be formed to be recessed with respect to the opposing surface 56E. In this case, the recess 58E may be formed to extend radially from the outer circumference of the main opening 52 to the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50E. The recess 58E is spaced apart from the light source unit 16. The space between the recess 58E and the light source unit 16 becomes a flow path for the water to be treated. The water to be treated, flowing through the internal space 20 outside the reactor 14E, passes through the recess 58E, passes through the main opening 52, and flows into the treatment chamber 42.

[0077] Figure 12 is a schematic plan view showing the opposing portion 50E of the reactor 14E. Similar to Figure 10 in the fifth embodiment described above, Figure 12 shows the irradiation port 68 of the light source unit 16 with a dashed line. As shown in Figure 12, the main opening 52 is circular in shape. The opposing portion 50E includes a plurality of engaging portions 54E, an opposing surface 56E, and a plurality of recesses 58E.

[0078] Multiple engagement portions 54E and multiple recesses 58E extend circumferentially along the outer circumference of the main opening 52. The multiple engagement portions 54E and multiple recesses 58E are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction and are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The multiple engagement portions 54E and multiple recesses 58E are formed, for example, to have a fan shape. The opposing surface 56E is provided radially outward of the engagement portions 54E and recesses 58E. The opposing surface 56E is formed in a ring shape along the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50E.

[0079] In the example shown in Figure 12, three engaging portions 54E and three recesses 58E are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The number of engaging portions 54E and recesses 58E is not particularly limited; there may be two or fewer, or four or more. In the example shown in Figure 12, the multiple engaging portions 54E and multiple recesses 58E are arranged at equal angles (e.g., 60 degrees), but the angular ranges occupied by each of the engaging portions 54E and recesses 58E may be different. The water to be treated passes through the recesses 58E towards the main opening 52, as indicated by the arrows.

[0080] According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the second embodiment described above can be achieved. According to this embodiment, by providing the recess 58E at a position different in the circumferential direction from the engaging portion 54E, it is possible to achieve both the flow of water to be treated in the recess 58E and the radial positioning of the light source unit 16 by the engaging portion 54E. In addition, water to be treated can flow to the main opening 52 through the gap between the light source unit 16 and the opposing surface 56E and through the recess 58E, allowing the water to be treated to be irradiated with ultraviolet light 18 of higher intensity. This makes it possible to improve the sterilization performance.

[0081] (Seventh Embodiment) Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the flowing water sterilization device 10F according to the seventh embodiment. Similar to the fourth embodiment, the seventh embodiment does not have a fourth flow port 48 in the reactor 14F, and is configured so that the water to be treated flows between the reactor 14F and the light source unit 16. The configuration of the opposing section 50F in the seventh embodiment differs from that of the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the flowing water sterilization device 10F according to the seventh embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the above-described embodiment, and the explanation of common points will be omitted as appropriate.

[0082] The flowing water sterilization device 10F comprises a flow path housing 12, a reactor 14F, and a light source unit 16. The flow path housing 12 and the light source unit 16 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0083] The reactor 14F has an opposing portion 50F. The opposing portion 50F includes a main opening 52, an engaging portion 54F, a contact surface 56F, and a recess 58F. The main opening 52 is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above.

[0084] The engaging portion 54F engages with the light source unit 16 to restrict the radial displacement of the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54F protrudes axially from the opposing portion 50F toward the light source unit 16. The engaging portion 54F protrudes axially on the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50F. The engaging portion 54F is configured to face the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16 radially and to engage with the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16.

[0085] The contact surface 56F contacts the light source unit 16 and presses the light source unit 16 in the axial direction. The contact surface 56F is provided radially inward of the engaging portion 54F. The contact surface 56F is provided between the main opening 52 and the engaging portion 54F. The contact surface 56F contacts, for example, the upper surface 74 of the light source housing 62 in the axial direction.

[0086] The recess 58F is formed to be recessed relative to the contact surface 56F. The recess 58F is formed to extend radially from the outer circumference of the main opening 52 to the outer circumference of the opposing portion 50F. The recess 58F is spaced apart from the light source unit 16. The space between the recess 58F and the light source unit 16 becomes a flow path for the water to be treated. The water to be treated, flowing through the internal space 20 outside the reactor 14F, for example, passes through the recess 58F and then through the main opening 52 to flow into the treatment chamber 42.

[0087] Figure 14 is a schematic plan view showing the opposing portion 50F of the reactor 14F. Similar to Figure 6 in the second embodiment described above, Figure 14 shows the outer circumferential surface 76 of the light source unit 16 with a dashed line. As shown in Figure 14, the main opening 52 is circular in shape. The opposing portion 50F includes a plurality of engaging portions 54F, a plurality of contact surfaces 56F, and a plurality of recesses 58F. Each of the engaging portions 54F, contact surfaces 56F, and recesses 58F is formed to have, for example, a fan shape.

[0088] Multiple engagement portions 54F and multiple contact surfaces 56F are provided at common positions in the circumferential direction. Multiple engagement portions 54F are provided radially outward from the multiple contact surfaces 56F. Multiple recesses 58F are provided at positions different from the multiple engagement portions 54F and multiple contact surfaces 56F in the circumferential direction. Multiple pairs of engagement portions 54F and contact surfaces 56F are arranged alternately with the multiple recesses 58F in the circumferential direction.

[0089] In the example shown in Figure 14, three pairs of engaging portions 54F and contact surfaces 56F, and three recesses 58F are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The number of engaging portions 54F, contact surfaces 56F, and recesses 58F is not particularly limited; there may be two or fewer, or four or more. In the example shown in Figure 14, the multiple pairs of engaging portions 54F and contact surfaces 56F and the multiple recesses 58F are arranged at equal angles (e.g., 60 degrees), but the angular ranges occupied by each of the engaging portions 54F, contact surfaces 56F, and recesses 58F may be different. The water to be treated passes through the recesses 58F towards the main opening 52, as indicated by the arrows.

[0090] According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the third embodiment described above can be achieved. According to this embodiment, by providing the recess 58F at a position different in the circumferential direction from the contact surface 56F, it is possible to achieve both the flow of water to be treated in the recess 58F and the axial positioning of the light source unit 16 by the contact surface 56F. Furthermore, by providing the recess 58F at a position different in the circumferential direction from the engaging portion 54F, it is possible to achieve both the flow of water to be treated in the recess 58F and the radial positioning of the light source unit 16 by the engaging portion 54F.

[0091] The present invention has been described above based on examples. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, that various design changes are possible, and that various modifications are possible, and that such modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0092] Several embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

[0093] A first aspect of the present invention is a flow-through water sterilization device comprising: a flow-through housing having an internal space through which water to be treated flows; a reactor disposed in the internal space and having a treatment chamber for containing the water to be treated; and a light source unit disposed in the internal space and irradiating the water to be treated in the treatment chamber with ultraviolet light, wherein the reactor has a facing portion facing the light source unit in a predetermined axial direction, the facing portion including a main opening extending in the axial direction between the treatment chamber and the light source unit for the passage of the ultraviolet light, and an engaging portion engaging with the light source unit and restricting the displacement of the light source unit in a radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction. According to the first aspect, the light source unit can be positioned radially relative to the reactor by the engaging portion, and the optical axis of the ultraviolet light irradiated into the treatment chamber can be prevented from shifting. This makes it possible to irradiate ultraviolet light to the appropriate position in the treatment chamber, thereby improving the reliability of the flow-through water sterilization device.

[0094] A second aspect of the present invention is a running water sterilization device according to the first aspect, wherein the light source unit comprises a light-emitting element that emits ultraviolet light, a light source housing that houses the light-emitting element and has an irradiation port, and a window member provided in the irradiation port that transmits the ultraviolet light, and the engaging portion faces the inner circumferential surface of the irradiation port in the radial direction. According to the second aspect, by engaging the engaging portion with the inner circumferential surface of the irradiation port, the irradiation port can be appropriately positioned with respect to the reactor. This makes it possible to irradiate the ultraviolet light output from the irradiation port to an appropriate position in the processing chamber, thereby improving the reliability of the running water sterilization device.

[0095] A third aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to the second aspect, wherein the opposing portion further includes a contact surface that contacts the light source housing in the axial direction, the contact surface is provided at a different position from the engaging portion, and the engaging portion is spaced apart from the window member. According to the third aspect, the light source unit can be positioned in the axial direction by the contact surface, which is different from the engaging portion, because the contact surface contacts the light source housing in the axial direction. By providing a contact surface separate from the engaging portion that positions the unit radially, the positioning accuracy of the light source unit can be improved.

[0096] A fourth aspect of the present invention is a water sterilization device according to the second aspect, wherein the engaging portion is in contact with the window member. According to the fourth aspect, the light source unit can be positioned in the axial direction by the engaging portion being in contact with the window member.

[0097] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to the first aspect, wherein the opposing portion further includes a contact surface that contacts the light source unit in the axial direction, the contact surface is provided at a different position from the engaging portion, and the engaging portion faces the outer circumferential surface of the light source unit in the radial direction. According to the fifth aspect, the light source unit can be positioned radially relative to the reactor by engaging the engaging portion with the outer circumferential surface of the light source unit. Furthermore, the light source unit can be positioned axially by the contact surface, which is in axial contact with the light source housing, by a contact surface different from the engaging portion. By providing a contact surface separate from the engaging portion that positions the light source unit radially, the positioning accuracy of the light source unit can be improved.

[0098] A sixth aspect of the present invention is a flow-through water sterilization device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the treatment chamber. According to the sixth aspect, by providing a recess in the opposing portion, the water to be treated can flow through the recess to the main opening, and the water to be treated can be irradiated with ultraviolet light of a higher intensity. This improves the sterilization performance.

[0099] A seventh aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to the third aspect, wherein the opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the treatment chamber, and the engaging portion is provided between the main opening and the recess. According to the third aspect, by providing the engaging portion between the main opening and the recess, the water to be treated can flow through the gap between the window member and the engaging portion, and the flow of the water to be treated can be straightened. This improves the sterilization performance.

[0100] An eighth aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to the third or fifth aspect, wherein the opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the treatment chamber, and the recess is provided at a position different from the contact surface in the circumferential direction around the axial direction. According to the eighth aspect, by providing the recess at a position different from the contact surface in the circumferential direction, it is possible to achieve both the flow of the water to be treated in the recess and the axial positioning of the light source unit by the contact surface.

[0101] A ninth aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the treatment chamber, and the recess is provided at a different position from the engaging portion in the circumferential direction around the axial direction. According to the ninth aspect, by providing the recess at a position different from the engaging portion in the circumferential direction, it is possible to achieve both the flow of the water to be treated in the recess and the radial positioning of the light source unit by the engaging portion.

[0102] A tenth aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the opposing portion is provided at a different position from the engaging portion and further includes an opposing surface facing the light source unit in the axial direction, and a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the treatment chamber, and the recess is provided between the main opening and the opposing surface. According to the tenth aspect, the water to be treated can flow to the main opening through the gap and recess between the light source unit and the opposing surface, and the water to be treated can be irradiated with ultraviolet light of higher intensity. This can improve sterilization performance.

[0103] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a flowing water sterilization device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, further comprising a sealing member sandwiched in the axial direction between the flow channel housing and the light source unit, wherein the opposing portion presses the light source unit toward the sealing member in the axial direction. According to the eleventh aspect, by pressing the light source unit in the axial direction with the opposing portion, the sealing performance of the sealing member disposed between the flow channel housing and the light source unit can be improved. This improves the reliability of the flowing water sterilization device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0104] 10...Water flow sterilization device, 12...Flow path housing, 14...Reactor, 16...Light source unit, 18...Ultraviolet light, 20...Internal space, 40...Sealing member, 42...Processing chamber, 50...Opposite part, 52...Main opening, 54...Engaging part, 56...Contact surface, 58...Recess, 60...Light-emitting element, 62...Light source housing, 64...Window member, 68...Irradiation port, 72...Inner circumferential surface, 76...Outer circumferential surface.

Claims

1. A flow path housing having an internal space through which the water to be treated flows, A reactor having a treatment chamber for containing the water to be treated, arranged in the internal space, The system includes a light source unit arranged in the internal space for irradiating the water to be treated in the processing chamber with ultraviolet light, The reactor has a portion facing the light source unit in a predetermined axial direction, The opposing portion is, A main aperture extending in the axial direction and allowing ultraviolet light to pass through is located between the processing chamber and the light source unit. Includes an engaging portion that engages with the light source unit and restricts the displacement of the light source unit in the radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction, Running water sterilizer.

2. The aforementioned light source unit is The light-emitting element that emits ultraviolet light, A light source housing that houses the light-emitting element and has an illumination port, The irradiation port is provided with a window member that transmits the ultraviolet light, The engagement portion is located opposite the inner circumferential surface of the irradiation port in the radial direction. The water sterilization apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The opposing portion further includes a contact surface that contacts the light source housing in the axial direction, The contact surface is provided at a position different from the engagement portion. The engagement portion is spaced apart from the window member. The water sterilization apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The engaging portion contacts the window member, The water sterilization apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The opposing portion further includes a contact surface that contacts the light source unit in the axial direction, The contact surface is provided at a position different from the engagement portion. The engagement portion is located opposite the outer circumferential surface of the light source unit in the radial direction. The water sterilization apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the processing chamber. A water sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the processing chamber, The engagement portion is provided between the main opening and the recess, The water sterilization apparatus according to claim 3.

8. The opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the processing chamber, The recess is provided at a position different from the contact surface in the circumferential direction around the axial direction. The water sterilization apparatus according to claim 3 or 5.

9. The opposing portion further includes a recess through which the water to be treated flows between the internal space and the processing chamber, The recess is provided at a position different from the engagement portion in the circumferential direction around the axial direction. A water sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. The opposing portion is, A surface is provided at a position different from the aforementioned engaging portion, and is opposite to the light source unit in the axial direction, The present invention further includes a recess between the internal space and the processing chamber through which the water to be treated flows, The recess is provided between the main opening and the opposing surface, A water sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. The system further comprises a sealing member sandwiched in the axial direction between the flow path housing and the light source unit, The opposing portion presses the light source unit axially toward the sealing member. A water sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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