Air purification device

Abstract

To provide a space purification device that makes decisions with an appropriate response speed while suppressing false detections in relation to water volume. [Solution] The device comprises a main body case 1, a blower unit 12, an electrolytic cell 5 provided inside the main body case 1 and detachable from the main body case 1 for mixing an electrolytic accelerator and water, an openable / closable panel 3 for allowing the electrolytic cell 5 to move between the inside and outside of the main body case 1, an electrode unit 14 for generating hypochlorous acid water, an electrostatic sensor 17 whose capacitance changes based on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the position of the electrolytic cell 5, and a determination unit 50 that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance. The determination unit 50 acquires capacitance every first hour, calculates the average value of the capacitance acquired from the capacitance acquired a first time before the current value to the capacitance acquired up to the present, determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the calculated average value, and changes the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a space purification device. [Background Art]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a dehumidification device capable of detecting the amount of water in a water storage part that receives dehumidified water (for example, Patent Document 1). A sensor using capacitance is used to detect the amount of water. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2022-142012 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] As described above, by using a sensor whose capacitance changes due to the presence of liquid, it is possible to detect the amount of water in a container that stores liquid. If water amount detection is performed only based on the current sensor value, there is a possibility of erroneous detection of the water amount due to instantaneous noise or the like; however, if water amount detection is performed only based on the current sensor value, the water amount detection control achieves quick responsiveness to the current water amount. It is desired to make a determination at an appropriate response speed while suppressing erroneous detection with respect to the water amount.

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a space purification device that makes a determination at an appropriate response speed while suppressing erroneous detection with respect to the water amount. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] Furthermore, one embodiment of the air purification device according to the present disclosure 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 water in the electrolytic cell, and a determination unit that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor, wherein the electrostatic sensor comprises a first electrode and a second electrode whose width increases when directed downward in the vertical direction, the first electrode and the second electrode are provided at the same height and exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is the same.

[0007] Another embodiment of the air purification device according to the present disclosure 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 detachably attached to the main body case for mixing 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 water in the electrolytic cell; and a determination unit that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor, wherein the electrostatic sensor comprises a first electrode and a second electrode whose width increases when directed downward in the vertical direction, the first electrode and the second electrode are provided at the same height and exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is the same. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a space purification device that can make decisions with an appropriate response speed while suppressing false detections in relation to water volume. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the air purification device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the air purification device according to the embodiment, with the panel open. [Figure 3] This is a side cross-sectional view of the air purification device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic functional block diagram of the air purification device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the control procedure by the control unit according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This is a schematic functional block diagram of the air purification device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the control procedure by the control unit according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the shapes of the first electrode and the second electrode according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 9] This is a schematic functional block diagram of the air purification device according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the control procedure by the control unit according to Embodiment 3, shown in chronological order. [Figure 11] This figure shows the relationship between water volume and voltage difference according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 12] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the control procedure by the control unit according to Embodiment 4, shown in chronological order. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments of the air purification device relating to this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are provided as examples to illustrate this disclosure and are not intended to limit it. For example, the shapes, structures, materials, components, relative positional relationships, connection states, numerical values, formulas, the content of each stage in the method, and the order of each stage shown in the following embodiments are examples and may include content not described below. Geometric expressions such as parallel and orthogonal may be used, but these expressions do not indicate mathematical rigor and include substantially acceptable errors and deviations. Similarly, expressions such as simultaneous, identical, and same also include substantially acceptable ranges. Furthermore, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals in each drawing, 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] (Embodiment 1) First, the space purification device D according to the present embodiment will be described. The space purification device D is a device independently installed in a predetermined space, and purifies air present in the predetermined space where the space purification device D is installed. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the space purification device D. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the space purification device D in a state where the opening / closing panel 3 of Figure 1 is opened.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the space purification device D includes a main body case 1.

[0013] The main body case 1 has a substantially box shape 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 opposite to each other in the front-rear direction, the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 103 are arranged opposite to each other in the left-right direction, and the upper surface 104 and the lower surface 105 are arranged opposite to each other in the up-down direction. Note that the left-right direction can also be referred to as the horizontal direction, and the up-down direction can also be referred to as the vertical direction.

[0014] The main body case 1 includes a suction port 2, an air outlet 6, and an opening / closing panel 3.

[0015] The suction ports 2 are grid-shaped openings provided on both side surfaces of the main body case 1 (the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 103) for introducing air outside the main body case 1 into the main body case 1.

[0016] The air outlet 6 is provided on the top surface (the upper surface 104) of the main body case 1. The air outlet 6 is an openable / closable opening for blowing air, which has been introduced into the main body case 1 through the suction port 2, out of the main body case 1. In Figure 1 and Figure 2, the air outlet 6 is in a closed state.

[0017] The opening / closing panel 3 is provided on the first side surface 102, which is the right side surface when viewed from the front of the main body case 1. The opening / closing panel 3 is an openable / closeable cover, and is mainly formed of plastic resin. One of the two suction ports is provided on the front side (front direction side) of the main body case 1 in the opening / closing panel 3. The inner side of the opening / closing panel 3 communicates with the interior of the main body case 1. The opening / closing panel 3 is an openable panel that allows an electrolytic cell 5 described later to be moved between the inside and outside of the main body case 1.

[0018] The main body case 1 is internally provided with the electrolytic cell 5, a water storage tank 9, and an opening / closing detection unit 4.

[0019] The electrolytic cell 5 is in a box shape with an open top surface, and has a structure capable of storing water. The electrolytic cell 5 is disposed at the lower part of the main body case 1, and is attachable to and detachable from the main body case 1 by sliding horizontally relative to the main body case 1. The electrolytic cell 5 mixes an electrolysis accelerator and water. Specifically, it mixes the electrolysis accelerator supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 and the supplied water. In the present embodiment, water is supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 by the water storage tank 9, but water may be directly supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 by a user. The electrolysis accelerator may be supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 by a user, or an electrolysis accelerator supply unit for supplying the electrolysis accelerator may be provided, and the electrolysis accelerator may be supplied by the control unit 22 controlling the electrolysis accelerator supply unit. Here, dissolution of the electrolysis accelerator in water is also regarded as mixing of the electrolysis accelerator and water. By dissolving the electrolysis accelerator in water, water containing chloride ions is stored in the electrolytic cell 5. An example of the electrolysis accelerator is sodium chloride.

[0020] The water storage tank 9 is disposed above the electrolytic cell 5. The water storage tank 9 has a structure that is attachable to and 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 is provided with a lid 10.

[0021] The lid 10 is installed on an opening located at the bottom of the water storage tank 9. The lid 10 has an opening / closing mechanism in the center, and when this mechanism is opened, water from the water storage tank 9 is supplied to the electrolytic cell 5. Specifically, when the water storage tank 9 is attached to the electrolytic cell 5 with its opening facing downwards, the opening / closing mechanism of the lid 10 opens. In other words, when water is added to the water storage tank 9 and attached to the electrolytic cell 5, the opening / closing mechanism of the lid 10 opens and water is supplied from the water storage tank 9 to the electrolytic cell 5. Once the water supply is complete and the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 rises to the position of the lid 10, the opening / closing mechanism of the lid 10 is sealed with water, stopping the water supply from the water storage tank 9, and water remains in the water storage tank 9. Then, whenever the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 drops, water from the water storage tank 9 is supplied to the electrolytic cell 5. That is, the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is kept constant.

[0022] The opening / closing detection unit 4 detects the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3. The method by which the opening / closing detection unit 4 detects the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3 may be any method. As an example, the opening / closing detection unit 4 detects the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3 by magnetic force. A magnet is attached to the opening / closing panel 3. For example, the magnet is provided on the inner surface of the main body case 1 of the opening / closing panel. The opening / closing detection unit 4 has a magnetic force detection sensor. The magnetic force detection sensor can detect the position of the magnet on the opening / closing panel by detecting the magnetic field emitted from the magnet on the opening / closing panel 3. For example, when the opening / closing panel 3 is closed, the magnet moves to a predetermined position (the position when the opening / closing panel 3 is closed), and the magnetic force detection sensor detects this magnet by detecting the magnetic field emitted from the magnet provided on the opening / closing panel 3. When the magnetic force detection sensor can detect the magnet, it determines that the opening / closing panel 3 is in a closed state (closed state).

[0023] On the other hand, if the opening / closing panel 3 is not closed (i.e., it is open), the opening (tilting) of the opening / closing panel 3 causes the magnet on the opening / closing panel 3 and the magnetic force detection sensor to no longer face each other, so the magnetic force detection sensor can no longer detect the magnet on the opening / closing panel 3. When the magnetic force detection sensor can no longer detect the magnet, it determines that the opening / closing panel 3 is in an open state.

[0024] Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the air purification device D. The main body case 1 contains a blower unit 12, an electrode unit 14, and a purification unit 15.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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 through the intake port 2. The purification unit 15 is equipped with a filter. The filter is a component that 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 blower unit 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 in a configuration that allows it to 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the main case 1 includes a partition wall 16.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes based on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0033] Furthermore, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes based on the position of the electrolytic cell 5. Specifically, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes when the electrolytic cell 5 is slid horizontally relative to the main body case 1. In other words, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes depending on whether the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main body case 1 or removed from the main body case 1. 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 (the surface other than the top and bottom surfaces) 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 body case 1, the rearward side). That is, it is the surface (side surface) of the electrolytic cell 5 closest to the electrostatic sensor 17. In addition, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes based on the amount of water (water level) in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0034] In this embodiment, the higher the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, the greater the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. In other words, the larger the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, the greater the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. Furthermore, the more the electrolytic cell 5 is detached from the main body case 1, the smaller the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 becomes. That is, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 is smaller when the electrolytic cell 5 is detached from the main body case 1 compared to when the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main body case 1.

[0035] The control unit 22 controls the air purification device D, but the details of the control will be described later.

[0036] The air purification device D is equipped with a notification unit 8. The notification unit 8 is provided, for example, on the top surface of the air purification device D and notifies the water volume information and the location information of the electrolytic cell 5. In this embodiment, the water volume information refers to the water volume information of the electrolytic cell 5. In this embodiment, the location of the electrolytic cell 5 refers to the mounting position information of the electrolytic cell 5. The mounting position is the position where the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main body case 1, the position where the electrolytic cell 5 is removed from the main body case 1, etc. An example of the notification unit 8 is a display LED that displays the water volume information and the location information of the electrolytic cell 5. The water volume information and the location information of the electrolytic cell 5 to be displayed on the notification unit 8 are controlled by the control unit 22. The display LED for notifying the water volume information of the electrolytic cell 5 and the display LED for notifying the location information of the electrolytic cell 5 may be provided separately, or they may be the same. If they are the same, the type of notification can be distinguished by changing the color of the LED or the display pattern.

[0037] Furthermore, the notification unit 8 may provide notifications by sound, such as a buzzer. The buzzer for notifying the water level information of the electrolytic cell 5 and the buzzer for notifying the location information of the electrolytic cell 5 may be separate or the same. The type of notification can be distinguished by changing the sound of the buzzer or the sound emission pattern. Note that the notification unit 8 does not have to be located on the top surface of 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 notify the notification unit of the water level information and the location information of the electrolytic cell 5 transmitted wirelessly. The notification unit may be a touch panel and a display panel such as an LCD panel or an organic EL panel.

[0038] In the electrolytic cell space 32, the hypochlorous acid generated in the electrolytic cell 5 volatilizes. The volatilized hypochlorous acid corrodes the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 in the electrostatic sensor 17, as well as the circuit board and other components used to realize the functions of 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.

[0039] Next, the functions of the control unit 22 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic functional block diagram of the control unit 22 and its surrounding parts in Embodiment 1.

[0040] The control unit 22 includes a determination unit 50 and an open / closed state acquisition unit 40.

[0041] The determination unit 50 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. As mentioned above, when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 changes.

[0042] The determination unit 50 determines that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state if the capacitance is below a first threshold. The determination unit 50 may also determine that the amount of water is in a drought state if the capacitance is less than the first threshold. The first threshold is stored, for example, in the memory unit 55 of the control unit 22 (determination unit 50). The memory unit 55 is a so-called memory. The first threshold is used to determine whether the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is greater than the drought water level, which is the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in a drought state. The first threshold is a value determined in advance by experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state can be stored in the memory unit 55 as the first threshold, based on experiments, etc. This allows for a more accurate determination of whether the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state. Since the amount of water in a low-water state can be accurately determined, it is possible to suppress the energization of the electrode unit 14 in a low-water state, or to determine that water needs to be supplied to the electrolytic cell 5 because it is low on water. However, energizing the electrode unit 14 in a low-water state will cause deterioration of the lifespan of the electrode material of the electrode unit 14.

[0043] Here, if the judgment unit 50 determines the water volume using only the current capacitance obtained from the electrostatic sensor 17, there is a possibility of misjudging the water volume due to momentary noise or other factors. In other words, the actual water volume may differ from the water volume determined by the judgment unit 50. Therefore, it is preferable to determine the water volume using the average value of capacitances obtained from past capacitances to the present.

[0044] Therefore, the determination unit 50 of the first embodiment includes a first count determination unit 51, a capacitance acquisition unit 52, an average value calculation unit 53, a state determination unit 54, and a storage unit 55.

[0045] The first number determination unit 51 will be described later.

[0046] The capacitance acquisition unit 52 acquires the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 at first intervals. The first interval is, for example, 1 second. The first interval is a value determined in advance through experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily. The capacitance acquired by the capacitance acquisition unit 52 is sent to the average value calculation unit 53. The capacitance information acquired by the capacitance acquisition unit 52 is also stored in the storage unit 55. In other words, the storage unit 55 stores the capacitances acquired in the past.

[0047] The average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitances obtained from the capacitance obtained one number of times prior to the present to the present. The first number of times is, for example, 10. The first number of times is, for example, a value determined in advance by experimentation, and can be set arbitrarily. If the first number of times is 10, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitances obtained from the capacitance obtained 10 times prior to the present to the present for 11 times.

[0048] The state determination unit 54 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is below the first threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state with insufficient water. Here, if the first threshold is set high, it becomes less susceptible to the influence of instantaneous noise and variations in the accuracy of the electrostatic sensor, and it is possible to suppress the misjudgment that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state when it is not. In this way, determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can suppress misjudgments of the water level.

[0049] When the state determination unit 54 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low, it notifies the user of the water level information via the notification unit 8. In other words, the notification unit 8 notifies the user of the water level information based on the water level determination made by the determination unit 50 (state determination unit 54). Specifically, when the state determination unit 54 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low, it notifies the user via the notification unit 8 that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. The notification unit 8 notifies the user that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low, for example, by lighting up an LED. Alternatively, the notification unit 8 may notify the user that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low by sounding a buzzer or the like. This allows the user to understand that it is necessary to replenish the water in the water tank 9. The user can also understand that it is a suitable time to perform cleaning maintenance on the electrolytic cell 5 because the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low.

[0050] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. As mentioned above, the electrolytic cell 5 is detachable from the main body case 1 and can be attached and detached by sliding it horizontally relative to the main body case 1. Specifically, the determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 by the determination unit 50 means determining whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main body case 1.

[0051] The state determination unit 54 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position. If the average value is greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position.

[0052] The second threshold is used to determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main case 1. The second threshold is a value determined in advance through experiments, for example, and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 when the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position can be stored in the memory unit 55 as the second threshold, based on experiments conducted in advance. The second threshold is smaller than the first threshold. This allows for accurate determination of whether the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1. Since it is possible to accurately determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1, in other words, it is also possible to accurately determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a position other than the first position (a position other than the first position). This allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 to drain the water inside it. It also allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance.

[0053] Here, the electrolytic cell 5 requires cleaning and maintenance. Water is supplied from the water storage tank 9, hypochlorous acid water is generated by the electrode unit 14, and purification by the purification unit 15 continues. As a result, dirt components and odor components contained in the air taken into the main unit case 1 accumulate in the electrolytic cell 5. As this accumulation continues, the amount of dirt components and odor components in the electrolytic cell 5 increases. If electricity is applied to the electrode unit 14 in this state, the efficiency of hypochlorous acid generation decreases. Consequently, this leads to a decrease in the performance of the electrode unit 14 and deterioration of the electrode unit 14. Therefore, cleaning and maintenance are required to remove dirt components and odor components from inside the electrolytic cell 5.

[0054] Furthermore, water is supplied from the water storage tank 9, hypochlorous acid water is generated by the electrode unit 14, and the water is purified by the purification unit 15, thus consuming the hypochlorous acid water in the electrolytic cell 5. To replenish the consumed water, water is supplied from the water storage tank 9. Repeated water replenishment causes a substance called scale, which is precipitated from inorganic salts dissolved in water, to accumulate in the electrolytic cell 5. When there is a lot of scale, the scale is more likely to adhere to the electrode members. If current is passed through the electrode unit 14 when a lot of scale has accumulated on the electrode members, the deterioration of the electrode members may be accelerated. This may reduce the efficiency of hypochlorous acid generation by the electrode members. Therefore, the electrolytic cell 5 requires cleaning and maintenance to remove the scale.

[0055] Maintenance is performed, for example, once a week. To perform cleaning maintenance, the user needs to remove the electrolytic cell 5 from inside the main unit case 1 to outside the main unit case 1. After cleaning maintenance, the user needs to reattach the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 to inside the main unit case 1.

[0056] The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been moved by the user from a position other than the first position to the first position if the average value changes from a state below the second threshold to a state above the second threshold. In other words, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been installed by the user from outside the main body case 1 to inside the main body case 1 if the average value changes from a state below the second threshold to a state above the second threshold.

[0057] Similarly, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been moved by the user from the first position to a position other than the first position if the average value falls from a state greater than the second threshold to a state less than or equal to the second threshold. In other words, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed by the user from inside the main body case 1 to outside the main body case 1 if the average value falls from a state greater than the second threshold to a state less than or equal to the second threshold.

[0058] If the average value falls below the second threshold, the status determination unit 54 notifies that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1. Subsequently, if the average value exceeds the second threshold, the status determination unit 54 notifies that the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1. The notification unit 8 notifies, for example, that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1 by turning on an LED. It also notifies that the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1 by turning off the LED. The notification unit 8 may also notify by sounding a buzzer or the like.

[0059] Here, a higher first count reduces the impact of noise and variations in sensor accuracy, thus suppressing the misjudgment that there is a water shortage when there is none. In other words, a higher first count and judging the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can suppress misjudgments of the water volume. The water (hypochlorous acid water) in the electrolytic cell 5 is consumed over time via the purification unit 15, and the amount of water does not change rapidly in a short period of time, so a high first count does not pose a problem.

[0060] However, when the first cycle is frequent, the time lag between the user actually removing the electrolytic cell 5 from inside the main unit case 1 to outside the main unit case 1 and the state determination unit 54 determining that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main unit case 1 becomes large. In other words, the time lag between the user actually removing the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1 and the notification of removal being sent via the notification unit 8 becomes large. This can cause the user to feel uneasy because they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a while. Furthermore, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0061] If the number of first occurrences is low, the time lag between when the user actually removes the electrolytic cell 5 from the main case 1 and when the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1 will be small. In other words, the time lag between when the user actually removes the electrolytic cell 5 from the main case 1 and when the removal is notified via the notification unit 8 will be small. This reduces the possibility that the user may feel uneasy because they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main case 1 but have not received a notification for a while. It also reduces the possibility that the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0062] Similarly, when the first cycle is frequent, the time lag between when the user actually attaches the electrolytic cell 5 to the main case 1 and when the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been attached to the main case 1 becomes larger. In other words, the time lag between when the user actually attaches the electrolytic cell 5 to the main case 1 and when the attachment is notified via the notification unit 8 becomes larger. Again, the user may feel uneasy because they have attached the electrolytic cell 5 to the main case 1 but have not received notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0063] If the number of first-order cycles is low, the time lag between when the user actually installs the electrolytic cell 5 into the main unit case 1 and when the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been installed in the main unit case 1 becomes smaller. In other words, the time lag between when the user actually installs the electrolytic cell 5 into the main unit case 1 and when the installation is notified via the notification unit 8 becomes smaller. This also reduces the possibility that the user may feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a while. It also reduces the possibility that the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0064] As described above, when determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5, a high number of first cycles is undesirable. Thus, the optimal control method differs between the control for determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the control for determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0065] Therefore, the control unit 22 of this embodiment includes an open / closed state acquisition unit 40, and the determination unit 50 includes a first count determination unit 51.

[0066] The open / closed state acquisition unit 40 acquires the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 detected by the open / closed detection unit 4. In other words, the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 acquires whether the current state of the open / closed panel 3 is open or closed.

[0067] The first count determination unit 51 determines the first count based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3. In this embodiment, the first count determination unit 51 determines the first count based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40. Specifically, the first count determination unit 51 determines the value of the first count when the open / closed panel 3 is in the open position to be smaller than the value of the first count when the open / closed panel is in the closed position. For example, the first count determination unit 51 sets the value of the first count to 2 when the open / closed panel 3 is in the open position and the value of the first count to 10 when the open / closed panel is in the closed position. It can also be said that the first count determination unit 51 changes the first count based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3.

[0068] The reason for performing the above control is explained below. When the opening / closing panel is in the closed position, the likelihood of the user removing and installing the electrolytic cell 5 is low. This is because, when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position, the user is unable to remove and install the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position, the control to determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 should be prioritized. For this reason, a high number of first checks is preferable.

[0069] Conversely, when the opening / closing panel is in the open position, there is a high probability that the user will remove and / or reinstall the electrolytic cell 5. When the user removes and / or reinstalls the electrolytic cell 5, maintenance such as cleaning will be performed, so the priority of controlling the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. In other words, when the opening / closing panel is in the open position, the control to determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5 should be prioritized. Therefore, it is preferable to have a small number of first checks.

[0070] Therefore, the determination unit 50 sets the first count when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position to be less than the first count when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position. In other words, it sets an appropriate first count according to the state of the opening / closing panel 3. This allows for accurate determination of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, and allows for quick determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5. When the user installs and removes the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance, they receive a quick notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5, making them less likely to feel any discomfort. Also, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning is reduced. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress misjudgments of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, it is possible to suppress the misjudgment that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Because misjudgments are suppressed, it is possible to prevent the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though the water level is not low. That is, it is possible to suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user.

[0071] 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.

[0072] Next, the detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 1 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5. Figure 5 is an example diagram showing the control procedure by the control unit 22 in chronological order in Embodiment 1. In the flowchart, numbers are assigned starting with the letter S. For example, S1 indicates a processing step. However, the magnitude of the numerical value indicating a processing step is not related to the processing order.

[0073] First, the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 acquires the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 (S1).

[0074] The first count determination unit 51 checks whether the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is the open state or not (S2).

[0075] If the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is in the open state, the first count determination unit 51 sets the first count to 2 (S2 Yes → S3).

[0076] If the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is not in the open state, i.e., it is in the closed state, the first count determination unit 51 sets the first count to 10 (No. in S2 → S4). In other words, the first count determination unit 51 makes the value of the first count when the open / closed panel 3 is in the open position smaller than the value of the first count when the open / closed panel 3 is in the closed position.

[0077] After step S3 or step S4, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitances acquired from the capacitance acquired one time before the present to the present (S5). Note that capacitance is acquired every hour.

[0078] The state determination unit 54 makes a determination based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53 (S6). Specifically, if the average value is below the first threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state. Also, if the average value is below the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position. Also, if the average value is greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position.

[0079] Furthermore, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5. Similarly, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0080] Thus, if the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is in the open state, the first count determination unit 51 sets the first count to 2. In other words, since the open / closed panel 3 is in the open state, priority is given to the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5. That is, control is made possible that allows for early determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5. In the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5, the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined quickly, so notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be given quickly, and the occurrence of discomfort in the user can be suppressed. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning can be reduced.

[0081] Furthermore, if the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is not in the open state, i.e., it is in the closed state, the first count determination unit 51 sets the first count to 10. In other words, since the open / closed panel 3 is not in the open state, priority is given to the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. That is, it becomes possible to perform control that can accurately determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Because the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined accurately in the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, misjudgments can be suppressed. This prevents the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though there is no shortage of water. That is, it prevents the user from performing unnecessary water supply work. This concludes the explanation using Figure 5.

[0082] Here, we will explain why it is important to quickly notify users about the location of the electrolytic cell 5. When a user removes or installs the electrolytic cell 5, it is desirable for the user to know as soon as possible whether the operation was performed correctly. If the notification is delayed, more time will be needed to confirm whether the operation was completed correctly. If the notification is delayed, even if the user has installed the electrolytic cell 5, they may not receive a notification that it has been installed, which could lead to a misunderstanding that the equipment has malfunctioned, causing inconvenience to the user. Therefore, it is important to quickly notify users about the location of the electrolytic cell 5 to prevent them from feeling confused or uneasy.

[0083] Furthermore, an example of why it is necessary to notify the user whether the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed inside the main case 1 will also be explained. Each component of the air purification device D, such as the main case 1, the opening / closing panel 3, and the electrolytic cell 5, is designed taking into account variations in molding and variations in fitting when assembling the air purification device D. Therefore, when installing the electrolytic cell 5 inside the main case 1, the opening / closing panel 3 can be closed even if the electrolytic cell 5 is not correctly installed inside the main case 1. The state in which the electrolytic cell 5 is not correctly installed inside the main case 1 is, for example, a state in which the user has not pushed the electrolytic cell 5 all the way to the back of the main case 1. The state in which the electrolytic cell 5 is not correctly installed inside the main case 1 is also a state in which the user has not moved the electrolytic cell 5 to the designated position inside the main case 1 (for example, the position where the electrolytic cell 5 and the electrostatic sensor 17 are at the shortest distance from each other).

[0084] Even if the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, the capacitance may differ depending on whether the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in a predetermined position within the main unit case 1 or not. For example, when the electrolytic cell 5 is not installed in a predetermined position within the main unit case 1, the distance between the electrolytic cell 5 and the electrostatic sensor 17 is greater than when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in a predetermined position within the main unit case 1, resulting in a smaller capacitance. As a result, when the opening / closing panel 3 is closed while the electrolytic cell 5 is not installed in a predetermined position within the main unit case 1, and control is performed to determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, the determination unit 50 may mistakenly determine that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 has decreased to the low water level, even though it has not decreased to the low water level.

[0085] While we want to prevent this situation from occurring, even if the electrolytic cell 5 is not properly installed in the main case 1, the opening / closing panel 3 can still be closed, so the user does not immediately notice anything unusual despite this being an abnormal state where the judgment is not made correctly. Therefore, it is preferable to notify the user whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is properly installed in the main case 1. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value falls below the second threshold. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value exceeds the second threshold. In this case, it is preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1. It is even more preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 when there is no water in the electrolytic cell 5. By enabling notification of whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is properly installed in the main case 1, even if the opening / closing panel 3 is closed when the electrolytic cell 5 is not properly installed, the user can be prompted to properly install the electrolytic cell 5 in the main case 1. In this embodiment, notifications regarding the location of the electrolytic cell 5 are received quickly, making it less likely for the user to feel uneasy. Furthermore, the likelihood of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device D is malfunctioning is reduced.

[0086] Furthermore, other effects of this control will also be described. The air purification device D is equipped with an electrode section 14, and current is supplied through the electrode section 14. Therefore, there is a risk of electric shock to the user if they touch the water in the electrolytic cell 5 while the device is energized. To prevent electric shock, the current supply from the electrode section 14 is stopped when the opening / closing panel 3 is opened. Also, the current supply from the electrode section 14 is started (restarted) when the opening / closing panel 3 is closed. In this way, the current supply is controlled according to the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3.

[0087] In the air purification device D, the mere fact that the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone does not necessarily mean that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is at a drought level. Even if the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone, there may still be more water in the electrolytic cell 5 than would be considered drought level. For example, suppose that part of the opening / closing panel 3 is made of a transparent material so that the user can visually check the amount of water remaining in the water storage tank 9. In this case, the user can see that the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone. However, some users may feel uneasy if they do not receive a notification of a drought level from the notification unit 8 even though the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone. Such users may perform a series of actions: opening the opening / closing panel 3, removing the electrolytic cell 5, closing the opening / closing panel 3, and checking the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. This action may be performed in a short amount of time. In this case, problems may occur if the control of this embodiment is not implemented.

[0088] Suppose the user removes the electrolytic cell 5 and immediately closes the opening / closing panel 3. Because this operation is performed in a short time, the average value may still be higher than the first threshold when the opening / closing panel 3 is closed. At this time, the air purification device D determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1, that the water level inside the electrolytic cell 5 is not in a depleted state, and that the opening / closing panel 3 is closed, so it determines that normal operation is possible. However, in reality, the electrolytic cell 5 is not installed inside the main case 1, and subsequently the average value decreases, leading to the determination that the water level is depleted and that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed.

[0089] In other words, the air purification device D determines that an impossible event has occurred: the electrolytic cell 5 was removed after the opening / closing panel 3 was closed, even though the opening / closing panel 3 was never opened again. As a result, the air purification device D detects an error and notifies the user of the error. The error notification can be sent to the notification unit 8, etc.

[0090] Thus, despite the above error judgment being incorrect, conventional air purification device D had the potential to make such an incorrect judgment. Users would also be troubled, unable to understand why an error occurred. In this embodiment, since it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed when the opening / closing panel 3 is open, the above-mentioned error judgment errors can be suppressed. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the notification of incorrect error judgments to the user. This reduces the time that users spend dealing with incorrect errors.

[0091] Furthermore, to address the above-mentioned error judgment errors, it is conceivable to delay the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closed panel 3. For example, the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closed panel 3 could be delayed to match the time required for the water level determination and position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 to be performed correctly. However, this also presents a problem. Because the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closed panel 3 is delayed, the energization by the electrode section 14 does not stop immediately after the user opens the opening / closed panel 3. In other words, there is a risk of electric shock if the user touches the electrolytic cell 5, etc., immediately after opening the opening / closed panel 3. For this reason, delaying the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closed panel 3 is undesirable. This embodiment makes it possible to suppress error judgment errors without delaying the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closed panel 3.

[0092] Furthermore, we will describe another effect of implementing this control. As mentioned above, in the air purification device D, the mere fact that the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone does not necessarily mean that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. As described above, suppose the user notices that the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone. Some users may feel uneasy because they have not received a low-water level notification from the notification unit 8, even though the water in the water storage tank 9 is gone. Such a user may perform a series of actions: open the opening / closing panel 3, remove the electrolytic cell 5, check the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, determine that the water level is fine, install the electrolytic cell 5, and close the opening / closing panel 3. This action may be performed in a short amount of time. In this case, problems may occur if the control of this embodiment is not implemented.

[0093] Immediately after the user removes the electrolytic cell 5, the average value is greater than the first threshold, so the air purification device D determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is not in a low-water state. Subsequently, when the average value falls below the first threshold, the air purification device D determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state and notifies the user of the low-water state via the notification unit 8. If the electrolytic cell 5 remains removed, the average value will fall below the second threshold, and the device will decide to remove the electrolytic cell 5. However, suppose the user determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is not a problem before the average value falls below the second threshold and installs the electrolytic cell 5 back into the main case 1. In this case, even though the user knows that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is not a problem (not in a low-water state), the notification unit 8 will still notify the user of the low-water state. Subsequently, over time, the average value will again exceed the first threshold, and the notification unit 8 will eventually stop notifying the user of the low-water state. However, because the notification unit 8 continues to notify the user of the low-water state for a certain period of time, the user may suspect that the air purification device D is malfunctioning, even though the device is not.

[0094] By implementing this disclosure, when the opening / closing panel 3 is opened and the electrolytic cell 5 is removed, it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed. Subsequently, the user installs the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water into the main unit case 1. When the user installs it, the opening / closing panel 3 is still open, so the first count is small, and it is determined early that the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water has been installed. In other words, the notification unit 8 will not send a notification of a low water level for a certain period of time. Thus, this embodiment can suppress the incorrect determination of a low water level as described above. It can also suppress incorrect notifications of a low water level to the user. It can also suppress the user from suspecting a malfunction of the air purification device D even though the air purification device D is not malfunctioning.

[0095] The present disclosure has been described above based on Embodiment 1, but it can be easily inferred that the present disclosure is not limited in any way and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0096] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 2 relates to the control of the air purification device D, similar to Embodiment 1. Embodiment 2 will primarily describe the differences from Embodiment 1. The internal configuration of the air purification device D in Embodiment 2 is almost the same as that of the air purification device D in Embodiment 1, but the configuration within the control unit is different.

[0097] Referring to Figure 6, the functions of the control unit 22 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 6 is a schematic functional block diagram of the control unit 22 and its surroundings according to Embodiment 2.

[0098] In Embodiment 2, the control unit 22 includes a first time determination unit 56 instead of the first count determination unit 51. Details of the first time determination unit 56 will be described later.

[0099] The control unit 22 includes a determination unit 50 and an open / closed state acquisition unit 40.

[0100] The determination unit 50 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17, similar to the first embodiment. If the capacitance is below a first threshold, the determination unit 50 determines that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is insufficient, indicating a drought condition. The determination unit 50 may also determine that the amount of water is in a drought condition if the capacitance is less than the first threshold. The first threshold is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0101] If the judgment unit 50 determines the water volume using only the current capacitance obtained from the electrostatic sensor 17, there is a possibility of misjudging the water volume due to noise, etc. Therefore, it is preferable to determine the water volume using the average value of capacitances obtained from past to present capacitances.

[0102] Therefore, the determination unit 50 of the second embodiment includes a first time determination unit 56, a capacitance acquisition unit 52, an average value calculation unit 53, a state determination unit 54, and a storage unit 55.

[0103] The first time determination section 56 will be described later.

[0104] The capacitance acquisition unit 52 acquires the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 at first intervals. The first interval is, for example, 2 seconds. The first interval is a value determined in advance through experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily. The capacitance acquired by the capacitance acquisition unit 52 is sent to the average value calculation unit 53. The capacitance information acquired by the capacitance acquisition unit 52 is also stored in the storage unit 55. In other words, the storage unit 55 stores the capacitances acquired in the past.

[0105] The average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitances obtained from the capacitance obtained one number of times prior to the present to the present. The first number of times is, for example, 5. The first number of times is, for example, a value determined in advance by experimentation, and can be set arbitrarily. If the first number of times is 5, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitances obtained from the capacitance obtained five times prior to the present to the present for the six times total.

[0106] The state determination unit 54 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is below the first threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state with insufficient water. As mentioned above, if the first time is long, it becomes less susceptible to the effects of noise and variations in the accuracy of the electrostatic sensor, and it is possible to suppress the misjudgment that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state when it is not. In this way, determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can suppress misjudgments of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0107] When the electrolytic cell 5 determines that the water level is in a low state, the state determination unit 54 notifies the water level information via the notification unit 8. In other words, the notification unit 8 notifies the water level information based on the water level determination made by the determination unit 50 (state determination unit 54). The notification method is the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0108] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. As mentioned above, the electrolytic cell 5 is detachable from the main body case 1 and can be attached and detached by sliding it horizontally relative to the main body case 1. Specifically, the determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 by the determination unit 50 means determining whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main body case 1.

[0109] The state determination unit 54 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position. If the average value is greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position. The explanation of the second threshold is the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0110] This allows for accurate determination of whether the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main unit case 1. Since it allows for accurate determination of whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, in other words, it allows for accurate determination of whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a position other than the first position (i.e., removed from the main unit case 1). This allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 to drain the water inside. It also allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance.

[0111] Here, as in Embodiment 1, the electrolytic cell 5 requires cleaning and maintenance.

[0112] The state determination unit 54, similar to Embodiment 1, determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 using the average value and the second threshold. Also, similar to Embodiment 1, notification is provided by the notification unit 8.

[0113] As mentioned earlier, extending the first time and judging the water volume in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can reduce the possibility of misjudging the water volume. However, when the first time is extended, the user may feel uneasy because they do not receive a notification for a while even though they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1. Also, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0114] If the first hour is short, the user is less likely to feel uneasy because they haven't received a notification yet, even though they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1. Furthermore, the user is less likely to mistakenly conclude that the air purification device D is malfunctioning.

[0115] Similarly, if the first time interval is long, the user may feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device D is malfunctioning. Conversely, if the first time interval is short, the user is less likely to feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user is less likely to mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0116] As described above, when determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5, a long duration in the first time is undesirable. Thus, the optimal control method differs between the control for determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the control for determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0117] Therefore, the control unit 22 of the second embodiment includes an open / closed state acquisition unit 40, and the determination unit 50 includes a first time determination unit 56.

[0118] The open / closed state acquisition unit 40 acquires the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 detected by the open / closed detection unit 4. In other words, the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 acquires whether the current state of the open / closed panel 3 is open or closed.

[0119] The first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3. In this embodiment, the first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40. Specifically, the first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time when the open / closed panel 3 is in the open position to be shorter than the length of the first time when the open / closed panel is in the closed position. For example, the first time determination unit 56 sets the length of the first time when the open / closed panel 3 is in the open position to 0.5 seconds and the length of the first time when the open / closed panel is in the closed position to 2 seconds. It can also be said that the first time determination unit 56 changes the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3.

[0120] The reason for performing the above control is explained below. When the opening / closing panel is in the closed position, there is a high probability that the user will not remove or install the electrolytic cell 5. This is because, when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position, the user is unable to remove or install the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position, the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 should be prioritized. For this reason, a longer first time is preferable.

[0121] Conversely, if the opening / closing panel is in the open position, there is a high probability that the user will remove and / or reinstall the electrolytic cell 5. When the user removes and / or reinstalls the electrolytic cell 5, maintenance such as cleaning will be performed, so the priority of controlling the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. In other words, when the opening / closing panel is in the open position, the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 should be prioritized. For this reason, it is preferable that the first time be short.

[0122] Therefore, the determination unit 50 sets the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position to be shorter than the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position. In other words, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the opening / closing panel. This allows for accurate determination of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, and quick determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5. When the user installs and removes the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance, they will receive a quick notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5, making them less likely to feel any discomfort. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device D is malfunctioning is reduced. Furthermore, misjudgments of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed. In other words, it can suppress the misjudgment that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Because misjudgments can be suppressed, it can prevent the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though the water level is not low. That is, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user.

[0123] Each functional block of the control unit 22 in Embodiment 2 can be implemented as hardware, such as a computer's CPU (Central Processing Unit), and as software, such as a computer program. However, in this case, the functional blocks are implemented through the coordination of these components. Therefore, these functional blocks can be implemented in various ways through combinations of hardware and software. In this embodiment, the control unit 22 is composed of a circuit board and is implemented through a combination of various elements on the circuit board and a computer program.

[0124] Next, the detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 2 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 7. Figure 7 is an example diagram showing the control procedure by the control unit 22 in chronological order in Embodiment 2. In the flowchart, numbers are assigned starting with the letter S. For example, S11 indicates a processing step. However, the magnitude of the numerical value indicating a processing step is not related to the processing order.

[0125] First, the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 acquires the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 (S11).

[0126] The first time determination unit 56 checks whether the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is the open state or not (S12).

[0127] If the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is in the open state, the first time determination unit 56 sets the first time to 0.5 seconds (S12 Yes → S13).

[0128] If the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is not in the open state, i.e., it is in the closed state, the first time determination unit 56 sets the first time to 2 seconds (No. of S12 → S14). In other words, the first time determination unit 56 makes the length of the first time when the open / closed panel 3 is in the open position shorter than the length of the first time when the open / closed panel 3 is in the closed position.

[0129] After step S13 or step S14, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitances acquired from the capacitance acquired one time before the present to the capacitance acquired up to the present (S15). Note that capacitance is acquired every hour.

[0130] The state determination unit 54 makes a determination based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53 (S16). Specifically, if the average value is below the first threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state. Also, if the average value is below the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position. Also, if the average value is greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position.

[0131] Furthermore, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5. Similarly, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0132] Thus, if the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is in the open state, the first time determination unit 56 sets the first time to 0.5 seconds. In other words, since the open / closed panel 3 is in the open state, the control to determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5 is prioritized. That is, control is made possible that allows for early determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5. Because the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined quickly in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5, notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be given quickly, and the occurrence of discomfort for the user can be suppressed. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning can be reduced.

[0133] Furthermore, if the open / closed state acquired by the open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is not in the open state, i.e., if it is in the closed state, the first time determination unit 56 sets the first time to 2 seconds. In other words, since the open / closed panel 3 is not in the open state, priority is given to the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. That is, it becomes possible to perform control that can accurately determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Because the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined accurately in the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, misjudgments can be suppressed. This prevents the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though there is no shortage of water. That is, it prevents the user from performing unnecessary water supply work. This concludes the explanation using Figure 7.

[0134] The reason why it is necessary to notify the user whether the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed in the main case 1 is the same as in Embodiment 1. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value falls below the second threshold. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value exceeds the second threshold. In this case, it is preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1. It is even more preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 when there is no water in the electrolytic cell 5. By enabling notification of whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed in the main case 1, even if the opening / closing panel 3 is closed when the electrolytic cell 5 is not correctly installed, the user can be prompted to correctly install the electrolytic cell 5 in the main case 1. With this embodiment, the notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 comes quickly, so the user is less likely to feel uncomfortable. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning is reduced.

[0135] Furthermore, Embodiment 2 also provides another benefit from performing the control described in Embodiment 1. Specifically, since it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed when the opening / closing panel 3 is open, errors in error determination can be suppressed. In addition, notifications of incorrect error determinations to the user can be suppressed. Moreover, Embodiment 2 also provides the benefit of suppressing errors in error determination without delaying the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3, as described in Embodiment 1.

[0136] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, another effect is achieved by performing the control described in Embodiment 1. Specifically, when the opening / closing panel 3 is opened and the electrolytic cell 5 is removed, it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed. Subsequently, the user installs the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water into the main unit case 1. Since the opening / closing panel 3 is still open when the user installs it, the first time is short, and it is determined early that the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water has been installed. In other words, the notification unit 8 will not send a notification of a low water level for a certain period of time. Thus, this embodiment can suppress incorrect judgments of a low water level. It can also suppress incorrect notifications of a low water level to the user.

[0137] Although the present disclosure has been described above based on Embodiment 2, it can be easily inferred that the present disclosure is not limited in any way and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0138] For example, the air purification device D may include both the first count determination unit 51 of Embodiment 1 and the first time determination unit 56 of Embodiment 2. In other words, it may perform both control that changes the first count based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 of Embodiment 1, and control that changes the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 of Embodiment 2.

[0139] This enables control that allows for earlier determination of the electrolytic cell 5's position. Because the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined more quickly in the control system, notifications regarding its location can be made more promptly, further reducing the likelihood of user discomfort. Furthermore, the possibility of the user mistakenly believing the air purification device is malfunctioning can be further reduced.

[0140] Furthermore, it is possible to control the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 with even greater accuracy. Since the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 with even greater accuracy, misjudgments can be further suppressed. This further suppresses situations in which the user mistakenly believes that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even when there is no shortage of water. In other words, unnecessary water supply work by the user can be further suppressed.

[0141] (Embodiment 3) Embodiment 3 relates to the control of the air purification device D, similar to Embodiment 2. Embodiment 3 will primarily describe the differences from Embodiment 2. The internal configuration of the air purification device D in Embodiment 3 is almost the same as that of the air purification device D in Embodiment 2, but the electrostatic sensor 17 has two electrodes. This will be explained in detail below.

[0142] In Embodiments 1 and 2, the electrostatic sensor 17 does not need to have two electrodes. For example, it may have one electrode, and the capacitance can change based on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 or the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0143] The specific configuration of the electrostatic sensor 17 in Embodiment 3 will be explained with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is an arrangement diagram showing the configuration of the electrostatic sensor 17. Figure 8 shows the shape of the electrostatic sensor 17 when viewed from the front to the rear.

[0144] The electrostatic sensor 17 is equipped with two electrodes, a first electrode 18 and a second electrode 19, and each electrode has capacitance. Capacitance changes depending on whether or not there is liquid (water) near the electrode. Capacitance also changes depending on the distance between the electrode and the liquid. In other words, capacitance changes based on the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Capacitance also changes depending on whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is near the electrode. In other words, capacitance changes based on the position of the electrolytic cell 5. In this embodiment, "water" includes water only, a mixture of water and an electrolytic accelerator, hypochlorous acid water, a mixture of hypochlorous acid water and an electrolytic accelerator, etc. The material of each electrode is metal, and one example is copper. However, the material of each electrode may be other metals such as gold. Here, the horizontal length of each electrode is defined as the width of each electrode, the vertical length of each electrode is defined as the height of each electrode, and the length in the front-to-back direction of each electrode is defined as the thickness of each electrode.

[0145] The first electrode 18 is positioned to the left of the second electrode 19. That is, the second electrode 19 is positioned to the right of the first electrode 18. Note that the positions of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may be reversed. Also, the width of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 increases when viewed from a vertical downward direction. Furthermore, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are provided at the same height and exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same. In other words, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same.

[0146] Figure 8 shows an example of the shape of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19, and in this embodiment, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are triangular in shape. In this embodiment, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are triangular in shape, with the width increasing as they extend downward in the vertical direction. However, the shapes of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may be other shapes. For example, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may be L-shaped. The first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may also be semicircular, trapezoidal, circular, elliptical, etc. The first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are provided at the same height and are shaped such that they exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same.

[0147] In this embodiment, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are symmetrical so that they exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same. The first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may also have the same shape. The capacitance characteristics will be described in detail below.

[0148] The water level in the electrolytic cell 5 changes depending on the amount of water (liquid) in the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, the larger the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, the higher the water level in the electrolytic cell 5. When the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the proportion of water present at the position opposite the first electrode 18 changes. In other words, when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the size of the electrode area where water is present at the opposite position on the first electrode 18 changes. The electrode area referred to here (hereinafter referred to as electrode area) is the area on the front side (front 100 side of the main case 1, forward direction side) of the first electrode 18 where water is present at the opposite position.

[0149] In the first electrode 18, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 changes when the electrode area where water is present at the opposing position changes. Specifically, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 increases as the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 increases. That is, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 increases as the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 increases.

[0150] The same applies to the second electrode 19. When the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the proportion of water present in the position opposite the second electrode 19 changes. In other words, when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the size of the electrode area where water is present in the position opposite the second electrode 19 changes. Here, the electrode area (electrode area) refers to the area on the front side (front 100 side of the main case 1, forward direction side) of the second electrode 19 where water is present in the position opposite the electrode.

[0151] In the second electrode 19, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 changes when the electrode area where water is present at the opposing position changes. Specifically, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 increases as the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 increases. In other words, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 increases as the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 increases.

[0152] As mentioned above, when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 exhibit the same capacitance characteristics. Therefore, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are installed at the same height, and the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are symmetrical or have the same shape. The front-facing surfaces of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are positioned opposite the rear-facing surface of the electrolytic cell 5, separated by the partition wall 16.

[0153] Here, 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. This is because if current is applied while at least a part of the electrode members is not immersed in water, the deterioration of the non-immersed electrode members will be accelerated.

[0154] 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, in a state where at least a portion of the electrode components is not immersed in water, can also be said to be the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in a drought state where there is insufficient water.

[0155] The water level in the largest possible water volume during a drought is approximately the same as the height of the highest point of the electrode component. Here, the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 corresponding to the height of the highest point of the electrode component is defined as the drought water level. Furthermore, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 when water is present at the drought water level is called the drought water volume. In other words, the drought water volume can be said to be the amount of water just before the electrode component is exposed to the water surface, and does not represent a state where the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is completely depleted.

[0156] It is important to know whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is at the low water level. If the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is below the low water level, it is not advisable to energize the electrode section 14, as mentioned earlier.

[0157] The first electrode 18 is positioned opposite the drought level of the electrolytic cell 5, that is, the drought level at which the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is insufficient, separated by the partition wall 16. It is preferable that, as shown in Figure 8, the first electrode 18 is positioned such that a relatively wide portion exists on the first electrode 18 opposite the drought level.

[0158] The same applies to the second electrode 19. The second electrode 19 is positioned opposite the drought level, that is, the drought level at which the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is insufficient, across the partition wall 16. As shown in Figure 8, it is preferable that the second electrode 19 is positioned such that there is a relatively wide portion of the second electrode 19 opposite the drought level.

[0159] The reason why it is preferable for the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 to be positioned such that there are relatively wider portions of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 opposite the low water level will be explained later.

[0160] Furthermore, the distance between the electrolytic cell 5 and the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 changes depending on the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0161] When the electrolytic cell 5 is removed from the main case 1, the electrolytic cell 5 is no longer in a position opposite the first electrode 18. In other words, the electrolytic cell 5, which was in a position opposite the first electrode 18, moves away from the first electrode 18. Conversely, when the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main case 1, the electrolytic cell 5 becomes in a position opposite the first electrode 18. In other words, the electrolytic cell 5 moves closer to the first electrode 18.

[0162] When the distance between the first electrode 18 and the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 changes. Specifically, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 increases as the electrolytic cell 5 gets closer. In other words, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 is greater when the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main body case 1 than when it is detached from the main body case 1.

[0163] The same applies to the second electrode 19. When the electrolytic cell 5 is removed from the main case 1, the electrolytic cell 5 is no longer in a position opposite the second electrode 19. In other words, the electrolytic cell 5, which was in a position opposite the second electrode 19, moves away from the second electrode 19. Conversely, when the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main case 1, the electrolytic cell 5 becomes in a position opposite the second electrode 19. In other words, the electrolytic cell 5 moves closer to the second electrode 19.

[0164] At the second electrode 19, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 changes as the distance from the electrolytic cell 5 changes. Specifically, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 increases as the electrolytic cell 5 is closer. In other words, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 is greater when the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main body case 1 than when it is detached from the main body case 1.

[0165] When the electrolytic cell 5 is attached to the main unit case 1, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 exhibit the same capacitance characteristics. Also, when the electrolytic cell 5 is removed from the main unit case 1, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 exhibit the same capacitance characteristics.

[0166] The configuration of the control unit in Embodiment 3 differs in part from that of Embodiment 2.

[0167] Referring to Figure 9, the functions of the control unit 22 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 9 is a schematic functional block diagram of the control unit 22 and its surroundings according to Embodiment 3.

[0168] The control unit 22 in Embodiment 3 includes an open / closed state acquisition unit 40, a first capacitor 64, a first ground 63, a first voltage application unit 60, a first connection unit 61, a second connection unit 62, a second capacitor 74, a second ground 73, a second voltage application unit 70, a third connection unit 71, a fourth connection unit 72, and a determination unit 50.

[0169] The open / closed state acquisition unit 40 is the same as in Embodiment 2.

[0170] The first capacitor 64 is, for example, a capacitor configured on a circuit board. The capacitance of the first capacitor 64 does not change with the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 changes with the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, but the capacitance of the first capacitor 64 does not change. In this embodiment, the first capacitor 64 is provided by the control unit 22, but it may also be provided by the control unit 22. For example, the first capacitor 64 may be provided on a circuit board different from the control unit 22, and the circuit board on which the first capacitor 64 is provided may be connected to the control unit 22.

[0171] Furthermore, the capacitance of the first capacitor 64 does not change depending on the position in the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 changes depending on the position in the electrolytic cell 5, but the capacitance of the first capacitor 64 does not change.

[0172] The first voltage application unit 60 is generally called a power supply circuit and generates the voltage to be applied. The air purification device D is supplied with an external power supply, for example, via a household outlet, and the first voltage application unit 60 generates the voltage to be applied from the external power supply. In this embodiment, the first voltage application unit 60 generates a DC voltage VDD as the voltage to be applied. The first voltage application unit 60 is, for example, a regulator. When the first voltage application unit 60 is connected to the first electrode 18, the DC voltage VDD is applied to the first electrode 18, and an amount of charge corresponding to the capacitance of the first electrode 18 is charged. Also, when the first voltage application unit 60 is connected to the first capacitor 64, the DC voltage VDD is applied to the first capacitor 64, and an amount of charge corresponding to the capacitance of the first capacitor 64 is charged.

[0173] The first ground 63 is commonly referred to as ground (GND) and is the reference point for voltage within the circuit. The first ground 63 can discharge the charge of the connected device. That is, when the first ground 63 is connected to the first electrode 18, the charge charged on the first electrode 18 is discharged. Also, when the first ground 63 is connected to the first capacitor 64, the charge charged on the first capacitor 64 is discharged.

[0174] The first connection section 61 switches between a first mode in which the first electrode 18 is connected to the first voltage application section 60, and a second mode in which the first electrode 18 is connected to the second connection section 62. The first connection section 61 may further include a third mode in which the first electrode 18 is connected to the first ground 63. The first connection section 61 may further include a fourth mode in which the first electrode 18 is not connected to anything. An example of the first connection section 61 is a relay component. The first connection section 61 may also be composed of components such as a transistor. Mode switching control by the first connection section 61 is performed by the first voltage acquisition section 81.

[0175] The second connection section 62 switches between a fifth mode in which the first capacitor 64 is connected to the first ground 63, and a sixth mode in which the first capacitor 64 is connected to the first connection section 61. The second connection section 62 may further include a seventh mode in which the first capacitor 64 is connected to the first voltage application section 60. The second connection section 62 may further include an eighth mode in which the first capacitor 64 is not connected anywhere. An example of the second connection section 62 is a relay component. The second connection section 62 may also be composed of components such as a transistor. Mode switching control by the second connection section 62 is performed by the first voltage acquisition section 81.

[0176] The second capacitor 74 is, for example, a capacitor configured on a circuit board. The capacitance of the second capacitor 74 does not change with the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 changes with the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, but the capacitance of the second capacitor 74 does not change. In this embodiment, the second capacitor 74 is provided by the control unit 22, but it may also be provided by the control unit 22. For example, the second capacitor 74 may be provided on a circuit board different from the control unit 22, and the circuit board on which the second capacitor 74 is provided may be connected to the control unit 22. The first capacitor 64 and the second capacitor 74 are capacitors (capacitors) with the same capacitance.

[0177] Furthermore, the capacitance of the second capacitor 74 does not change depending on the position of the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, the capacitance of the second electrode 19 changes depending on the position of the electrolytic cell 5, but the capacitance of the second capacitor 74 does not change.

[0178] The second voltage application unit 70 is generally called a power supply circuit and generates the voltage to be applied. The air purification device D is supplied with an external power supply, for example, via a household outlet, and the second voltage application unit 70 generates the voltage to be applied from the external power supply. In this embodiment, the second voltage application unit 70 generates a DC voltage VDD as the voltage to be applied. The second voltage application unit 70 is, for example, a regulator. When the second voltage application unit 70 is connected to the second electrode 19, the DC voltage VDD is applied to the second electrode 19, and an amount of charge corresponding to the capacitance of the second electrode 19 is charged. Also, when the second voltage application unit 70 is connected to the second capacitor 74, the DC voltage VDD is applied to the second capacitor 74, and an amount of charge corresponding to the capacitance of the second capacitor 74 is charged.

[0179] The first voltage application unit 60 and the second voltage application unit 70 may be the same. In other words, the second voltage application unit 70 may use the first voltage application unit 60.

[0180] The second ground 73 is commonly referred to as ground (GND) and serves as the reference point for voltage within the circuit. The second ground 73 can discharge the charge of the connected device. Specifically, when the second ground 73 is connected to the second electrode 19, the charge stored in the second electrode 19 is discharged. Similarly, when the second ground 73 is connected to the second capacitor 74, the charge stored in the second capacitor 74 is discharged.

[0181] The first ground 63 and the second ground 73 may be the same. In other words, the second ground 73 may use the first ground 63.

[0182] The third connection section 71 switches between a ninth mode in which the second capacitor 74 is connected to the second voltage application section 70, and a tenth mode in which the second capacitor 74 is connected to the fourth connection section 72. The third connection section 71 may further include an eleventh mode in which the second capacitor 74 is connected to the second ground 73. The third connection section 71 may further include a twelfth mode in which the second capacitor 74 is not connected anywhere. An example of the third connection section 71 is a relay component. The third connection section 71 may also be composed of components such as a transistor. Mode switching control by the third connection section 71 is performed by the second voltage acquisition section 82.

[0183] The fourth connection section 72 switches between a 13th mode in which the second electrode 19 is connected to the second ground 73, and a 14th mode in which the second electrode 19 is connected to the third connection section 71. The fourth connection section 72 may further include a 15th mode in which the second electrode 19 is connected to the second voltage application section 70. The fourth connection section 72 may further include a 16th mode in which the second electrode 19 is not connected anywhere. An example of the fourth connection section 72 is a relay component. The fourth connection section 72 may also be composed of components such as a transistor. Mode switching control by the fourth connection section 72 is performed by the second voltage acquisition section 82.

[0184] The determination unit 50 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17, similar to the second embodiment. If the capacitance is below the first threshold, the determination unit 50 determines that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is insufficient, indicating a drought condition. The determination unit 50 may also determine that the amount of water is in a drought condition if the capacitance is less than the first threshold. The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 referred to here is the first voltage difference, which will be described later.

[0185] The first threshold is the same as in Embodiment 2. If the determination unit 50 determines the water volume using only the current capacitance obtained from the electrostatic sensor 17, there is a possibility of misjudging the water volume due to noise, etc. Therefore, it is preferable to determine the water volume using the average value of capacitances obtained from past capacitances to the present. As mentioned above, when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 (first electrode 18 and second electrode 19) changes.

[0186] Therefore, the determination unit 50 of Embodiment 3 includes a first time determination unit 56, a first voltage acquisition unit 81, a second voltage acquisition unit 82, a voltage difference calculation unit 83, an average value calculation unit 53, a state determination unit 54, and a storage unit 55.

[0187] The first time determination section 56 will be described later.

[0188] The first voltage acquisition unit 81 applies a voltage to the first electrode 18 to charge it, stops applying the voltage, and performs a first acquisition process to acquire a first voltage, which is the voltage between the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 when the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected. Details of the first acquisition process will be described later.

[0189] The first voltage acquisition unit 81 acquires the first voltage at first time intervals. The first time interval is, for example, 2 seconds. The first time interval is a value determined in advance through experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily.

[0190] The second voltage acquisition unit 82 applies a voltage to the second capacitor 74 to charge it, stops applying the voltage, and performs a second acquisition process to acquire the second voltage, which is the voltage between the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 when the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected. Details of the second acquisition process will be described later.

[0191] The second voltage acquisition unit 82 acquires the second voltage every first hour.

[0192] The determination unit 50 performs the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process at the same time.

[0193] The voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference, which is the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage. The first voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit 83 is used as the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. The voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference every hour.

[0194] The first voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit 83 is sent to the average value calculation unit 53. The information of the first voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit 83 is also stored in the storage unit 55. In other words, the storage unit 55 stores previously calculated first voltage differences.

[0195] The average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired from the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired one number of times prior to the present to the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired up to the present. In other words, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the first voltage difference acquired (calculated) from the first voltage difference acquired (calculated) one number of times prior to the present to the capacitance of the first voltage difference acquired up to the present. The first number of times is, for example, 5. The first number of times is, for example, a value determined in advance by experimentation, and can be set arbitrarily. If the first number of times is 5, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the first voltage difference acquired from the first voltage difference acquired five times prior to the present to the capacitance of the first voltage difference acquired up to the present for a total of 6 times.

[0196] The state determination unit 54 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is below the first threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state with insufficient water. Similarly, the determination unit 50 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state with insufficient water if the first voltage difference (the average value of the first voltage difference) is below the first threshold. The first threshold can also be called the drought threshold. Here, if the first time is long, it becomes less susceptible to the influence of noise and variations in the accuracy of the electrostatic sensor, and it is possible to suppress the misjudgment that the electrolytic cell is in a drought state when it is not. In this way, determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can suppress the possibility of misjudging the amount of water.

[0197] When the electrolytic cell 5 determines that the water level is low, the state determination unit 54 notifies the water level information via the notification unit 8. In other words, the notification unit 8 notifies the water level information based on the water level determination made by the determination unit 50 (state determination unit 54). The notification method is the same as in Embodiment 1. This allows the user to understand that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9. The user can also understand that the low water level in the electrolytic cell 5 makes it a suitable time to perform cleaning and maintenance on the electrolytic cell 5.

[0198] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. As mentioned above, the electrolytic cell 5 is detachable from the main body case 1 and can be attached and detached by sliding it horizontally relative to the main body case 1. Specifically, the determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 by the determination unit 50 means determining whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main body case 1.

[0199] The state determination unit 54 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position. If the average value is greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position.

[0200] The second threshold is used to determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main case 1. The second threshold is a value determined in advance through experiments, for example, and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the average value when the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position can be stored in the memory unit 55 as the second threshold, based on experiments conducted in advance. The second threshold is smaller than the first threshold. This allows for accurate determination of whether the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1. Since it is possible to accurately determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, in other words, it is also possible to accurately determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a position other than the first position (a position where it has been removed from the main case 1). This allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 to drain the water inside it. It also allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance.

[0201] Thus, the determination unit 50 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a position where it has been removed from the main body case if the first voltage difference (the average value of the first voltage difference) is less than or equal to the second threshold, which is smaller than the first threshold. The second threshold can also be called the movement threshold.

[0202] Here, as in Embodiment 2, the electrolytic cell 5 requires cleaning and maintenance. To perform cleaning and maintenance, the user needs to remove the electrolytic cell 5 from inside the main unit case 1 to outside the main unit case 1. After cleaning and maintenance, the user needs to reattach the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 to inside the main unit case 1.

[0203] The state determination unit 54, similar to Embodiment 2, determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 using the average value and the second threshold. Also, similar to Embodiment 2, notification is provided by the notification unit 8.

[0204] As mentioned earlier, extending the first time and judging the water volume in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can reduce the possibility of misjudging the water volume. However, when the first time is extended, the user may feel uneasy because they do not receive a notification for a while even though they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1. Also, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0205] If the first hour is short, the user is less likely to feel uneasy because they haven't received a notification yet, even though they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1. Furthermore, the user is less likely to mistakenly conclude that the air purification device D is malfunctioning.

[0206] Similarly, if the first time interval is long, the user may feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device D is malfunctioning. Conversely, if the first time interval is short, the user is less likely to feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user is less likely to mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0207] As described above, when determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5, a long duration in the first time is undesirable. Thus, the optimal control method differs between the control for determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the control for determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0208] Therefore, the control unit 22 of Embodiment 3 includes an open / closed state acquisition unit 40, and the determination unit 50 of Embodiment 3 includes a first time determination unit 56.

[0209] The open / closed state acquisition unit 40 and the first time determination unit 56 are the same as in Embodiment 2, so their description is omitted.

[0210] The reason for performing the above control is explained below. When the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, there is a high probability that the user will not remove or install the electrolytic cell 5. This is because when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the user is unable to remove or install the electrolytic cell 5. In other words, when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 should be prioritized. For this reason, a longer first time is preferable.

[0211] Conversely, when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, there is a high probability that the user will remove and / or install the electrolytic cell 5. When the user removes and / or installs the electrolytic cell 5, maintenance such as cleaning will be performed, so the priority of controlling the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. In other words, when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 should be prioritized. For this reason, it is preferable that the first time be short.

[0212] Therefore, the determination unit 50 sets the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position to be shorter than the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position. In other words, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the opening / closing panel 3. This allows for accurate determination of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, and quick determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5. When the user installs and removes the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance, they will receive a quick notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5, making them less likely to feel any discomfort. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device D is malfunctioning is reduced. Furthermore, misjudgments of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed. In other words, it can suppress the misjudgment that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Because misjudgments can be suppressed, it can prevent the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though the water level is not low. That is, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user.

[0213] Each functional block of the control unit 22 in Embodiment 3 can be implemented as hardware, such as a computer's CPU (Central Processing Unit), and as software, such as a computer program. However, in this case, the functional blocks are implemented through the coordination of these components. Therefore, these functional blocks can be implemented in various ways through combinations of hardware and software. In this embodiment, the control unit 22 is composed of a circuit board and is implemented through a combination of various elements on the circuit board and a computer program.

[0214] Next, the detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 will be explained using the timing chart in Figure 10. Figure 10 is an example diagram showing the control procedure by the control unit 22 in chronological order.

[0215] First, we will explain the first acquisition process using the timing chart in Figure 10(a). We will then explain the flow of the first acquisition process.

[0216] Furthermore, it is preferable that the first voltage acquisition unit 81 sets the first connection unit 61 to the third mode and the second connection unit 62 to the fifth mode before performing the first acquisition process, that is, before timing T1. This eliminates any remaining charge on the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64. At this time, the first electrode voltage, which is the voltage of the first electrode 18, and the first capacitor voltage, which is the voltage of the first capacitor 64, become zero.

[0217] The first voltage acquisition unit 81 sets the first connection unit 61 to the first mode and the second connection unit 62 to the fifth mode at timing T1. As a result, the first electrode 18 is charged and the charge of the first capacitor 64 is discharged. In other words, the voltage of the first electrode becomes VDD and the voltage of the first capacitor becomes zero. Timing T1 is the timing for starting the first acquisition process and can be set arbitrarily. Timing T1 may start at a preset time, or it may start when a receiving unit receives a request to start from the user or the air purification device D. The first acquisition process is started, for example, every first hour.

[0218] At timing T2, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 sets the first connection unit 61 to the second mode and the second connection unit 62 to the sixth mode. The first voltage acquisition unit 81 may also set the first connection unit 61 to the second mode via the fourth mode. Alternatively, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 may set the second connection unit 62 to the sixth mode via the eighth mode. In other words, the application to the first electrode 18 is stopped, the discharge of the first capacitor 64 is stopped, and the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected. At this time, the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected in parallel. Because the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected in parallel, the voltage of the first electrode and the voltage of the first capacitor move toward the same voltage. The voltage of the first electrode and the voltage of the first capacitor at this time are called the first voltage. The first voltage is determined by the amount of charge charged to the first electrode 18 before timing T2, the capacitance of the first electrode 18, and the capacitance of the first capacitor 64.

[0219] The time between timing T1 and timing T2 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable that it be at least long enough to allow time for the first electrode 18 to complete its charge charge. The completion of the charge charge of the first electrode 18 means that the amount of charge on the first electrode 18 will not increase any further even if a voltage is applied. It is preferable to measure the time it takes for the first electrode 18 to complete its charge charge in advance through experiments, etc., and set the time between timing T1 and timing T2 to be longer than or equal to the maximum time required for the first electrode 18 to complete its charge charge.

[0220] The first voltage acquisition unit 81 acquires the first voltage at timing T3. The time from timing T2 to timing T3 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable that there is at least enough time for the first voltage to stabilize. It is preferable to measure the time it takes for the first voltage to stabilize through experiments or other means beforehand and set the time from timing T2 to timing T3 to be at least the maximum time it takes for the first voltage to stabilize. This concludes the explanation of the flow of the first acquisition process.

[0221] Next, the second acquisition process will be explained using the timing chart in Figure 10(b). The flow of the second acquisition process will be explained.

[0222] Furthermore, it is preferable that the second voltage acquisition unit 82 sets the fourth connection unit 72 to the 13th mode and the third connection unit 71 to the 11th mode before performing the second acquisition process, that is, before timing T11. This eliminates any remaining charge on the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74. At this time, the second electrode voltage, which is the voltage of the second electrode 19, and the second capacitor voltage, which is the voltage of the second capacitor 74, become zero.

[0223] At timing T11, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 sets the fourth connection unit 72 to mode 13 and the third connection unit 71 to mode 9. As a result, the second capacitor 74 is charged and the charge on the second electrode 19 is discharged. In other words, the voltage of the second capacitor becomes VDD and the voltage of the second electrode becomes zero. Timing T11 is the timing for starting the second acquisition process and can be set arbitrarily. Timing T11 may start at a preset time, or it may start when a receiving unit receives a request to start from the user or the air purification device D. The second acquisition process is also started every hour.

[0224] At timing T12, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 sets the fourth connection unit 72 to the 14th mode and the third connection unit 71 to the 10th mode. The second voltage acquisition unit 82 may also set the fourth connection unit 72 to the 14th mode via the 16th mode. Alternatively, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 may set the third connection unit 71 to the 10th mode via the 12th mode. In other words, the application of power to the second capacitor 74 is stopped, the discharge of the second electrode 19 is stopped, and the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected. At this time, the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected in parallel. Because the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected in parallel, the second electrode voltage and the second capacitor voltage move toward the same voltage. The second electrode voltage and the second capacitor voltage at this time are called the second voltage. The second voltage is determined by the amount of charge charged to the second capacitor 74 before timing T12, the capacitance of the second electrode 19, and the capacitance of the second capacitor 74.

[0225] The time between timing T11 and timing T12 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable that it be at least long enough to allow time for the second capacitor 74 to finish charging. The completion of the second capacitor's charge means that even if a voltage is applied, the amount of charge in the second capacitor 74 will not increase any further. It is preferable to measure the time it takes for the second capacitor 74 to finish charging in advance through experiments, etc., and set the time between timing T11 and timing T12 to be longer than or equal to the maximum time it takes for the second capacitor 74 to charge.

[0226] The second voltage acquisition unit 82 acquires the second voltage at timing T13. The time from timing T12 to timing T13 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable that there is at least enough time for the second voltage to reach a stable voltage value. It is preferable to measure the time it takes for the second voltage to reach a stable voltage value in advance through experiments, etc., and set the time from timing T12 to timing T13 to be at least the maximum time it takes for the second voltage to reach a stable voltage value. This concludes the explanation of the flow of the second acquisition process.

[0227] After the completion of the first and second acquisition processes, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference, which is the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage. Specifically, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference by subtracting the second voltage from the first voltage. Note that the larger the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, the larger the first voltage difference. In other words, as the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is consumed by the purification unit 15, etc., and the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 approaches the depletion level, the first voltage difference becomes smaller.

[0228] The first voltage difference is calculated every hour by the voltage difference calculation unit 83. The average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the first voltage differences calculated from the first voltage difference calculated one number of times prior to the present to the present.

[0229] Next, the state determination unit 54 determines that if the average value is below the first threshold, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state. As mentioned above, the first threshold is used to determine whether or not there is a water amount in the electrolytic cell 5 that is greater than the drought water amount, which is the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in a drought state. It is a value determined in advance through experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the first voltage difference when the electrolytic cell 5 has a drought water amount can be calculated in advance through experiments, etc., and the calculated value can be stored in the storage unit 55 as the first threshold. This makes it possible to determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 has a drought state. Since the amount of water in a drought state can be determined, the current flow by the electrode unit 14 in the drought state can be suppressed, and as a result, the deterioration of the electrode unit 14 can be suppressed.

[0230] Furthermore, the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1 by the user if the average value falls below the second threshold. Also, the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been attached to the main case 1 by the user if the average value exceeds the second threshold. This allows the location of the electrolytic cell 5 to be determined.

[0231] When the electrolytic cell 5 determines that the water level is low, the status determination unit 54 notifies the user via the notification unit 8 that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. This allows the user to understand that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Therefore, the user can understand that it is necessary to take action, such as refilling the water storage tank 9. Once the water storage tank 9 is refilled, the electrode unit 14 can be energized, and hypochlorous acid can be continuously generated.

[0232] Furthermore, if the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1, it notifies the notification unit 8 that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a state of being removed from the main case 1. Subsequently, if the average value becomes greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 notifies the notification unit 8 that the electrolytic cell 5 has been attached to the main case 1. The notification method is as described above.

[0233] Here, it is preferable that the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process be performed at the same time. That is, it is preferable that at least timing T3 and timing T13 be at the same time. Also, it is preferable that timing T1 and timing T11 be at the same time. Also, it is preferable that timing T2 and timing T12 be at the same time.

[0234] Let me explain the reason. There is stray capacitance between the first electrode 18 and the ground of the control unit 22 (first ground 63), and this stray capacitance changes over time. There is also stray capacitance between the second electrode 19 and the ground of the control unit 22 (second ground 73). The value of the stray capacitance changes over time. This is because temperature, humidity, surrounding electric field conditions, noise, etc., change over time. In other words, even if the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, the first voltage and the second voltage will fluctuate depending on the timing. Also, even if the position of the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, the first voltage and the second voltage will fluctuate depending on the timing. As disclosed herein, by performing the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process at the same timing, the influence of changes in stray capacitance can be suppressed. That is, water volume and position can be determined with high accuracy.

[0235] Specifically, the state determination unit 54 calculates the difference (first voltage difference) between the first voltage and the second voltage, which are acquired at the same time when the same stray capacitance exists. Since the first voltage and the second voltage are acquired at the same time, the calculation of the first voltage difference cancels out the voltage changes corresponding to the same stray capacitance in the first and second voltages (first electrode 18 and second electrode 19). In other words, the influence of changes in stray capacitance that change over time on the value of the first voltage difference is suppressed.

[0236] If the first and second acquisition processes are performed at different times, the change in stray capacity over time is likely to affect the value of the first voltage difference, thus worsening the accuracy of water volume determination and reducing the accuracy of determining whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, if the first and second acquisition processes are performed at different times, the change in stray capacity over time is likely to affect the value of the first voltage difference, thus worsening the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0237] In this disclosure, since the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process are performed at the same time, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, since the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process are performed at the same time, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0238] Here, the first time period includes the time from timing T1 to timing T3. Similarly, the first time period includes the time from timing T11 to timing T13.

[0239] As mentioned above, the first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3. The first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position to be shorter than the length of the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position.

[0240] Therefore, as a way to vary the first time, it is possible to vary the time from timing T1 to timing T2 and the time from timing T11 to timing T12. In other words, as a way to shorten the first time, the time from timing T1 to timing T2 and the time from timing T11 to timing T12 are shortened. This makes it possible to vary (shorten) the first time. However, it is preferable that the first electrode voltage is close to VDD at timing T2, and the second capacitor voltage is close to VDD at timing T12. Therefore, taking these into consideration, care must be taken not to shorten the time from timing T1 to timing T2 and the time from timing T11 to timing T12 too much.

[0241] Another way to vary the first time is to vary the time from timing T2 to timing T3 and the time from timing T12 to timing T13. In other words, one way to shorten the first time is to shorten the time from timing T2 to timing T3 and the time from timing T12 to timing T13. This allows the first time to be varied (shortened). However, it is preferable that the first electrode voltage and the first capacitor voltage are the same voltage at timing T3, and that the second capacitor voltage and the second electrode voltage are the same voltage at timing T13. Therefore, taking these into consideration, care must be taken not to shorten the time from timing T2 to timing T3 and the time from timing T12 to timing T13 too much. If the first electrode voltage and the first capacitor voltage are not the same voltage at timing T3, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 acquires either the first electrode voltage or the first capacitor voltage as the first voltage. Similarly, if the second capacitor voltage and the second electrode voltage are not the same at timing T13, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 acquires either the second capacitor voltage or the second electrode voltage as the second voltage.

[0242] Here, the time from when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 18 until the first voltage is acquired in the first acquisition process (the time from timing T1 to timing T3) is defined as the first acquisition process time. The time from when a voltage is applied to the second capacitor 74 until the second voltage is acquired in the second acquisition process (the time from timing T11 to timing T13) is defined as the second acquisition process time.

[0243] The determination unit 50 sets the first acquisition processing time and the second acquisition processing time to be the same. This is to improve the accuracy of determining the water volume of the electrolytic cell 5 and the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5, as mentioned above. In other words, timing T1 and timing T11 are the same timing, and timing T3 and timing T13 are also the same timing.

[0244] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 shortens the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first acquisition processing time and the second acquisition processing time by the same amount of time.

[0245] Let's explain an example of shortening the first time. Here, the time it takes to charge the first electrode 18 during the first acquisition processing time (the time from timing T1 to timing T2) is defined as the first charge time. Then, the time it takes to connect the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 during the first acquisition processing time (the time from timing T2 to timing T3) is defined as the first connection time. Furthermore, the time it takes to charge the second capacitor 74 during the second acquisition processing time (the time from timing T11 to timing T12) is defined as the second charge time. Then, the time it takes to connect the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 during the second acquisition processing time (the time from timing T12 to timing T13) is defined as the second connection time.

[0246] The determination unit 50 sets the first charge time and the second charge time to be the same, and the first connection time and the second connection time to be the same. In other words, timing T1 and timing T11 are the same timing, timing T2 and timing T12 are the same timing, and timing T3 and timing T13 are the same timing.

[0247] The determination unit 50 shortens the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first charge time and the second charge time by the same amount.

[0248] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the first and second charging times to the same duration, the timings of timing T2 and T12 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacitance (noise) that change over time on the value of the first voltage difference can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to suppress a deterioration in the accuracy of water volume judgment and a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0249] In this disclosure, by adjusting the first charging time and the second charging time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, because the first charging time and the second charging time are adjusted to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0250] Another example of shortening the first time is that the determination unit 50 may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first connection time and the second connection time by the same amount.

[0251] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the first and second connection times to the same duration, the timings of timing T3 and T13 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacitance (noise) that change over time on the value of the first voltage difference can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to suppress a deterioration in the accuracy of water volume judgment and a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0252] In this disclosure, by adjusting the first connection time and the second connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, because the first connection time and the second connection time are adjusted to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0253] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first charge time and the second charge time by the same amount, and shortening the first connection time and the second connection time by the same amount.

[0254] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the first charge time and the second charge time to the same time, and the first connection time and the second connection time to the same time, the timing of timing T2 and timing T12, and the timing of timing T3 and timing T13 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacitance (noise) that change over time on the value of the first voltage difference can be further suppressed. In other words, the deterioration of the accuracy of water volume judgment and the decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be further suppressed. Similarly, the decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be further suppressed.

[0255] In this disclosure, by adjusting the first charging time and the second charging time to the same duration, and adjusting the first connection time and the second connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be further improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be further improved. Similarly, by adjusting the first charging time and the second charging time to the same duration, and adjusting the first connection time and the second connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be further improved.

[0256] As described above, in Embodiment 3, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the open / closed panel.

[0257] Here, the relationship between the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the first voltage difference will be explained using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the amount of water (water level) in the electrolytic cell 5 and the first voltage difference corresponding to the amount of water. Figure 11(a) is a diagram showing the relationship between the shape (triangular) of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 in this embodiment. The horizontal axis is the first voltage value (voltage difference value), and the vertical axis is the amount of water (water level) in the electrolytic cell 5. As shown in the figure, the smaller the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, the smaller the first voltage difference becomes. As mentioned above, whether or not there is more than the minimum amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is related to whether or not the electrode section 14 can be energized, so it is important to accurately determine whether or not there is more than the minimum amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. If it cannot be determined accurately, the electrode section 14 may be energized when there is less than the minimum amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, which may accelerate the deterioration of the electrode section 14. Furthermore, if the determination is not accurate, users may have to refill the water tank 9 more frequently, potentially reducing usability.

[0258] Figure 11(b) shows the relationship between the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the first voltage difference when the shape of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 is triangular in this embodiment, and the relationship between the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the first voltage difference when the shape of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 is rectangular, in which the width does not increase even when the shape is vertically downward, as in this embodiment. The relationship in the triangular shape is shown by a solid line, and the relationship in the rectangular shape is shown by a dotted line.

[0259] In the case of a rectangular shape, the relationship between the water volume and the first voltage difference is proportional. That is, if the water volume A decreases, the first voltage difference B decreases in proportion to the water volume A.

[0260] However, in the case of the triangular shape of this embodiment, the relationship between the water volume and the first voltage difference is not proportional. In particular, at water volumes near the drought level, when the water volume decreases by A, the first voltage difference decreases by more than B. In other words, in this embodiment, at water volumes near the drought level, the decrease in the first voltage difference relative to the decrease in water volume is larger. To achieve this characteristic, as mentioned above, it is preferable that the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are arranged such that there are relatively wide portions at the positions of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 facing the drought level. This will be explained in more detail.

[0261] As mentioned earlier, when the water level (volume) in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the proportion of water present in the position opposite the first electrode 18 changes. In other words, when the volume of water in the electrolytic cell 5 changes, the electrode area on the first electrode 18 where water is present in the position opposite changes. When the electrode area on the first electrode 18 where water is present in the position opposite changes, the capacitance of the first electrode 18 changes. The same applies to the second electrode 19.

[0262] Here, if the electrode shape is rectangular, the change in the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is proportional to the change in the electrode area where water exists at opposing positions on the first electrode 18. The same applies to the second electrode 19. Therefore, the relationship between the amount of water and the first voltage difference is proportional, as shown by the dotted line in Figure 11(b).

[0263] However, in this embodiment, the change in the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the change in the electrode area where water is located opposite each other in the first electrode 18 are not proportional. In this embodiment, the change in electrode area when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 changes by a predetermined amount is greater when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. The same applies to the second electrode 19. As a result, the change in the first voltage difference is greater when the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low (small amount of water) and the amount of water changes by a predetermined amount. In this embodiment, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are arranged such that there are relatively wide portions of the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 opposite each other in the position opposite the depletion water level, so as shown by the solid line in Figure 11(b), the change in the first voltage difference is larger when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 changes by a predetermined amount near the depletion water level (depletion water volume). In other words, because the change in the first voltage value in response to changes in water volume is large near the depletion water level, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the water in the electrolytic cell 5 has decreased to the depletion water level (whether or not there is more water in the electrolytic cell 5 than the depletion water level).

[0264] In this way, by shaping the electrodes so that the change in capacitance of the electrodes is large (steep) in response to the same amount of change in water volume, the first voltage difference can be changed steeply in response to the change in water volume, thereby improving the detection accuracy for the target water level (water volume).

[0265] Next, the detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 3 will be described. The detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 3 is shown in Figure 7, similar to Embodiment 2.

[0266] Steps S13 and S14 in Embodiment 3 will now be described. In accordance with the first time determined in steps S13 and S14, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 determines the timing in the first acquisition process, and the second voltage acquisition unit 82 determines the timing in the second acquisition process.

[0267] After step S13 or step S14, the determination unit 50 (average value calculation unit 53) calculates the average value of the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired up to the present, starting from the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired one time step prior to the present. The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 is calculated every hour.

[0268] The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 is the first voltage difference. In other words, the determination unit 50 calculates the average value of the first voltage differences acquired from the first voltage difference acquired one time before the present to the present. The first voltage difference is calculated every hour.

[0269] The state determination unit 54 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state if the average value is below the first threshold. The state determination unit 54 also determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position if the average value is below the second threshold. The state determination unit 54 also determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position if the average value is greater than the second threshold.

[0270] Furthermore, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5. Similarly, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0271] As described above, with the control content of Embodiment 3, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open state, control can be performed to determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5 early. Since the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined quickly in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5, notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be given quickly, and the occurrence of discomfort on the user can be suppressed. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning can be reduced.

[0272] Furthermore, if the open / closed state is not in the open state, i.e., in the closed state, it is possible to perform control that can accurately determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Because the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined accurately in the control, misjudgments can be suppressed. This prevents the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though there is no shortage of water. In other words, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user. It can also suppress the occurrence of failures in the electrode unit 14.

[0273] Furthermore, when changing the first time, the first time is changed so that the lengths of the first and second charging times are the same, thereby suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of water volume determination and suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, a decrease in the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed.

[0274] Furthermore, when changing the first time, the first time is changed so that the lengths of the first and second connection times are the same, thereby suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of water volume determination and suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, a decrease in the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed.

[0275] Thus, when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the first time can be lengthened to prioritize the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Conversely, when the opening / closing panel is in the open position, the first time can be shortened to prioritize the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0276] In other words, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the opening / closing panel 3. This allows for accurate determination of the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 in the control system, and quick determination of the location of the electrolytic cell 5 in the control system. When the user installs or removes the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning or maintenance, they will receive a quick notification regarding the location of the electrolytic cell 5, making them less likely to feel any discomfort. Furthermore, the likelihood of the user mistakenly believing that the air purification device is malfunctioning is reduced. In addition, misjudgments of the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed. That is, it can suppress the misjudgment that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Because misjudgments can be suppressed, it can prevent the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 even though it is not low. In other words, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user.

[0277] The reason why it is necessary to notify the user whether the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed in the main case 1 is the same as in Embodiment 2. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value falls below the second threshold. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value exceeds the second threshold. In this case, it is preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1. It is even more preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 when there is no water in the electrolytic cell 5. By enabling notification of whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed in the main case 1, even if the opening / closing panel 3 is closed when the electrolytic cell 5 is not correctly installed, the user can be prompted to correctly install the electrolytic cell 5 in the main case 1. With this embodiment, the notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 comes quickly, so the user is less likely to feel uncomfortable. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning is reduced.

[0278] Furthermore, Embodiment 3 also provides another benefit from performing the control described in Embodiment 2. Specifically, since it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed when the opening / closing panel 3 is open, errors in error determination can be suppressed. In addition, notifications of incorrect error determinations to the user can be suppressed. Moreover, Embodiment 3 also provides the benefit of suppressing errors in error determination without delaying the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3, as described in Embodiment 2.

[0279] Furthermore, Embodiment 3 also provides another benefit by performing the control described in Embodiment 2. Specifically, when the opening / closing panel 3 is opened and the electrolytic cell 5 is removed, it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed. Subsequently, the user installs the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water into the main unit case 1. Since the opening / closing panel 3 is still open when the user installs it, the first time is short, and it is determined early that the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water has been installed. In other words, the notification unit 8 will not send a notification of a low water level for a certain period of time. Thus, this embodiment can suppress incorrect judgments of a low water level. It can also suppress incorrect notifications of a low water level to the user.

[0280] Although the present disclosure has been described above based on Embodiment 3, it can be easily inferred that the present disclosure is not limited in any way and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0281] For example, the air purification device may include both the first count determination unit 51 of Embodiment 1 and the first time determination unit 56 of Embodiment 3. In other words, it may perform both control that changes the first count based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 of Embodiment 1, and control that changes the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 of Embodiment 3.

[0282] This enables control that allows the position of electrolytic cell 5 to be determined even earlier. Since the position of electrolytic cell 5 can be determined more quickly in the control for determining the position of electrolytic cell 5, notifications regarding the position of electrolytic cell 5 can be provided more quickly, and the occurrence of discomfort for the user can be further suppressed. Furthermore, the possibility that the user incorrectly determines that the space purification device has failed can be further reduced.

[0283] Furthermore, control that allows the water amount in electrolytic cell 5 to be determined with higher accuracy can be performed. Since the water amount in electrolytic cell 5 can be determined with higher accuracy in the control for determining the water amount in electrolytic cell 5, erroneous determinations can be further suppressed. This further prevents the user from mistakenly recognizing that it is necessary to supply water to the water storage tank 9 to alleviate water shortage in electrolytic cell 5 even when the water amount is not insufficient. That is, unnecessary water supply work by the user can be further suppressed.

[0284] (Embodiment 4) Embodiment 4 relates to control of the space purification device D similarly to Embodiment 3. In Embodiment 4, description will be focused on differences from Embodiment 3. The internal configuration of the space purification device D in Embodiment 4 is substantially the same as that of the space purification device D in Embodiment 3, except for part of the control content of the control unit 22. The electrostatic sensor 17 of Embodiment 4 also includes a first electrode 18 and a second electrode 19, which are two electrodes.

[0285] The control unit 22 of Embodiment 4 may perform the following control. A detailed flow of control executed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 4 will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control procedure by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 4 represented in chronological order.

[0286] First, the first acquisition processing in Embodiment 4 will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 12(a). The flow of the first acquisition processing in Embodiment 4 will be described.

[0287] The process up to timing T3 is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 10(a) of Embodiment 3, so description thereof is omitted.

[0288] After acquiring the first voltage at timing T3, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 sets the first connection unit 61 to the third mode and the second connection unit 62 to the seventh mode at timing T4. As a result, the first capacitor 64 is charged and the charge on the first electrode 18 is discharged. In other words, the first capacitor voltage becomes VDD and the first electrode voltage becomes zero. The time from timing T3 to timing T4 can be set arbitrarily.

[0289] At timing T5, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 sets the first connection unit 61 to the second mode and the second connection unit 62 to the sixth mode. The first voltage acquisition unit 81 may also set the first connection unit 61 to the second mode via the fourth mode. Alternatively, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 may set the second connection unit 62 to the sixth mode via the eighth mode. In other words, the application of power to the first capacitor 64 is stopped, the discharge of the first electrode 18 is stopped, and the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected. At this time, the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected in parallel. Because the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 are connected in parallel, the voltage of the first electrode and the voltage of the first capacitor move toward the same voltage. At this time, the voltage of the first electrode and the voltage of the first capacitor are defined as the third voltage. The third voltage is determined by the amount of charge charged to the first capacitor 64 before timing T5, the capacitance of the first electrode 18, and the capacitance of the first capacitor 64.

[0290] The time between timing T4 and timing T5 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable to include time until the first capacitor 64 has finished charging. The completion of the first capacitor 64's charge means that even if a voltage is applied, the amount of charge in the first capacitor 64 will not increase any further. It is preferable to measure the time until the first capacitor 64 has finished charging through experiments or other means in advance and set the time between timing T4 and timing T5 to be longer than or equal to the maximum time required for the first capacitor 64 to charge.

[0291] The first voltage acquisition unit 81 acquires the third voltage at timing T6. The time from timing T5 to timing T6 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable to allow time for the third voltage to stabilize. It is preferable to measure the time it takes for the third voltage to stabilize through experiments or other means beforehand and set the time from timing T5 to timing T6 to be longer than or equal to the maximum time it takes for the third voltage to stabilize. This concludes the explanation of the flow of the first acquisition process in Embodiment 4.

[0292] Next, the second acquisition process in Embodiment 4 will be explained using the timing chart in Figure 12(b). The flow of the second acquisition process in Embodiment 4 will be described.

[0293] The explanation up to timing T13 is the same as that described in Figure 10(b) of the embodiment, so it will be omitted.

[0294] After acquiring the second voltage at timing T13, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 sets the fourth connection unit 72 to mode 15 and the third connection unit 71 to mode 11 at timing T14. As a result, charge is charged to the second electrode 19 and the charge of the second capacitor 74 is discharged. In other words, the voltage of the second electrode becomes VDD and the voltage of the second capacitor becomes zero. The time from timing T13 to timing T14 can be set arbitrarily.

[0295] At timing T15, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 sets the fourth connection unit 72 to the 14th mode and the third connection unit 71 to the 10th mode. The second voltage acquisition unit 82 may also set the fourth connection unit 72 to the 14th mode via the 16th mode. Alternatively, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 may set the third connection unit 71 to the 10th mode via the 12th mode. In other words, the application to the second electrode 19 is stopped, the discharge of the second capacitor 74 is stopped, and the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected. At this time, the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected in parallel. Because the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 are connected in parallel, the voltage of the second electrode and the voltage of the second capacitor move toward the same voltage. The voltage of the second electrode and the voltage of the second capacitor at this time are called the fourth voltage. The fourth voltage is determined by the amount of charge charged to the second electrode 19 before timing T15, the capacitance of the second electrode 19, and the capacitance of the second capacitor 74.

[0296] The time between timing T14 and timing T15 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable to include time until the charge charging of the second electrode 19 is completed. The completion of the charge charging of the second electrode 19 means that even if a voltage is applied, the amount of charge on the second electrode 19 will not increase any further. It is preferable to measure the time until the charge charging of the second electrode 19 is completed in advance through experiments, etc., and set the time between timing T14 and timing T15 to be longer than or equal to the maximum time required for the charge charging of the second electrode 19.

[0297] The second voltage acquisition unit 82 acquires the fourth voltage at timing T16. The time from timing T15 to timing T16 can be set arbitrarily, but it is preferable to allow time for the fourth voltage to stabilize. It is preferable to measure the time it takes for the fourth voltage to stabilize through experiments or other means beforehand and set the time from timing T15 to timing T16 to be longer than or equal to the maximum time it takes for the fourth voltage to stabilize. This concludes the explanation of the flow of the second acquisition process in Embodiment 4.

[0298] After the completion of the first and second acquisition processes, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference, which is the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage. Specifically, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference by subtracting the second voltage from the first voltage.

[0299] Furthermore, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the second voltage difference, which is the difference between the fourth voltage and the third voltage. Specifically, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the second voltage difference by subtracting the third voltage from the fourth voltage.

[0300] Next, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates a first average, which is the average of the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference.

[0301] In this disclosure, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 are provided so as to exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, but there is some variation in characteristics due to dimensional errors during electrode manufacturing. Also, the first capacitor 64 and the second capacitor 74 are capacitors (capacitors) of the same capacitance, but there is some variation in their characteristics due to manufacturing errors, etc. As in this disclosure, by calculating the first average, the deterioration of the accuracy of water volume judgment in the electrolytic cell 5 and the deterioration of position judgment accuracy in the electrolytic cell 5 due to the variation in characteristics between the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19, and between the first capacitor 64 and the second capacitor 74 is suppressed.

[0302] If the first average is not used for water volume determination as in Embodiment 4, the variation in characteristics between the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19, and the variation in characteristics between the first capacitor 64 and the second capacitor 74, affects the value of the first voltage difference, thus worsening the accuracy of water volume determination and lowering the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Furthermore, if the first average is not used for water volume determination, the variation in characteristics between the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19, and the variation in characteristics between the first capacitor 64 and the second capacitor 74, affects the value of the first voltage difference, thus worsening the accuracy of position determination and lowering the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0303] In Embodiment 4, since the first average is used for water amount determination, the accuracy of water amount determination can be improved, and the determination accuracy that the water amount in electrolytic cell 5 is in a water shortage state can be improved. Further, in Embodiment 4, since the first average is used for position determination, the accuracy of position determination of electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0304] The configuration inside the control unit in Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiment 3 as shown in FIG. 9, and the description will focus on differences in control content. A control unit 22 in Embodiment 4 includes an open / closed state acquisition unit 40, a first capacitor 64, a first ground 63, a first voltage application unit 60, a first connection unit 61, a second connection unit 62, a second capacitor 74, a second ground 73, a second voltage application unit 70, a third connection unit 71, a fourth connection unit 72, and a determination unit 50. The open / closed state acquisition unit 40, first capacitor 64, first ground 63, first voltage application unit 60, first connection unit 61, second connection unit 62, second capacitor 74, second ground 73, second voltage application unit 70, third connection unit 71, and fourth connection unit 72 are the same as those in Embodiment 3.

[0305] The determination unit 50 in Embodiment 4 includes a first time determination unit 56, a first voltage acquisition unit 81, a second voltage acquisition unit 82, a voltage difference calculation unit 83, an average value calculation unit 53, a state determination unit 54, and a storage unit 55.

[0306] The first time determination unit 56 will be described later.

[0307] The first voltage acquisition unit 81 executes a first acquisition process for acquiring a first voltage and a third voltage. The first voltage acquisition unit 81 executes the first acquisition process every first time period. The first time period is, for example, 2 seconds. The first time period is, for example, a value determined in advance through experiments or the like, and can be set arbitrarily.

[0308] The second voltage acquisition unit 82 executes a second acquisition process for acquiring a second voltage and a fourth voltage. The second voltage acquisition unit 82 executes the second acquisition process every first time period.

[0309] The determination unit 50 performs the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process at the same time. After the completion of the first and second acquisition processes, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first voltage difference, which is the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage. Furthermore, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the second voltage difference, which is the difference between the fourth voltage and the third voltage.

[0310] Next, the voltage difference calculation unit 83 calculates the first average, which is the average of the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference. The calculation of the first average is performed every hour.

[0311] The first average calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit 83 is sent to the average value calculation unit 53. The information of the first average calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit 83 is also stored in the storage unit 55. In other words, the storage unit 55 stores previously calculated first averages.

[0312] The average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average value of the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired from the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired one count prior to the present to the present. In other words, the average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average of the first averages acquired (calculated) from the first average acquired (calculated) one count prior to the present

[0313] The state determination unit 54 determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is below the first threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state with insufficient water. In this way, the determination unit 50 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state with insufficient water if the first average (the average value of the first averages) is below the first threshold. The first threshold can also be called the drought threshold. Here, if the first time is long, it becomes less susceptible to the influence of noise and variations in the accuracy of the electrostatic sensor, and it is possible to suppress the misjudgment that the electrolytic cell is in a drought state when it is not. In this way, determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can suppress the possibility of misjudging the amount of water.

[0314] When the electrolytic cell 5 determines that the water level is low, the state determination unit 54 notifies the water level information via the notification unit 8. In other words, the notification unit 8 notifies the water level information based on the water level determination made by the determination unit 50 (state determination unit 54). The notification method is the same as in Embodiment 1. This allows the user to understand that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9. The user can also understand that the low water level in the electrolytic cell 5 makes it a suitable time to perform cleaning and maintenance on the electrolytic cell 5.

[0315] Here, the first threshold is used to determine whether the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is greater than the amount of water in a drought state, and is a value determined in advance through experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the first average value when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is at the drought level is calculated in advance through experiments, etc., and the calculated value is stored in the memory unit 55 as the first threshold. This makes it possible to more accurately determine whether the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state. Since the amount of water in a drought state can be determined more accurately, the energization by the electrode unit 14 in a drought state can be suppressed, and as a result, the deterioration of the electrode unit 14 can be suppressed. Through notification from the notification unit 8, the user can understand that it is necessary to take action such as replenishing water in the water storage tank 9. Once water is replenished in the water storage tank 9, the electrode unit 14 can be energized, and hypochlorous acid can be continuously generated.

[0316] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17. As mentioned above, the electrolytic cell 5 is detachable from the main body case 1 and can be attached and detached by sliding it horizontally relative to the main body case 1. Specifically, the determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 by the determination unit 50 means determining whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main body case 1.

[0317] The state determination unit 54 determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value calculated by the average value calculation unit 53. If the average value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position. If the average value is greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position.

[0318] The second threshold is used to determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, which is the position where it is installed inside the main case 1. The second threshold is a value determined in advance through experiments, for example, and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the first average value obtained in cases where the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position can be stored in the memory unit 55 as the second threshold, based on experiments conducted in advance. The second threshold is smaller than the first threshold. This allows for accurate determination of whether the electrolytic cell 5 is installed inside the main case 1. Since it is possible to accurately determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position, in other words, it is also possible to accurately determine whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a position other than the first position (a position where it has been removed from inside the main case 1). This allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 to drain the water inside it. It also allows for accurate determination of whether the user has removed the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance.

[0319] Thus, the determination unit 50 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a position where it has been removed from the main body case if the first average (the average value of the first averages) is less than or equal to the second threshold, which is smaller than the first threshold. The second threshold can also be called the movement threshold.

[0320] Here, as in Embodiment 3, the electrolytic cell 5 requires cleaning and maintenance. To perform cleaning and maintenance, the user needs to remove the electrolytic cell 5 from inside the main unit case 1 to outside the main unit case 1. After cleaning and maintenance, the user needs to reattach the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 to inside the main unit case 1.

[0321] The state determination unit 54, similar to Embodiment 3, determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5 using the average value and the second threshold. Also, similar to Embodiment 3, notification is provided by the notification unit 8.

[0322] As mentioned earlier, extending the first time and judging the water volume in the electrolytic cell 5 based on the average value can reduce the possibility of misjudging the water volume. However, when the first time is extended, the user may feel uneasy because they do not receive a notification for a while even though they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1. Also, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0323] If the first hour is short, the user is less likely to feel uneasy because they haven't received a notification yet, even though they have removed the electrolytic cell 5 from the main unit case 1. Furthermore, the user is less likely to mistakenly conclude that the air purification device D is malfunctioning.

[0324] Similarly, if the first time interval is long, the user may feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user may mistakenly conclude that the air purification device D is malfunctioning. Conversely, if the first time interval is short, the user is less likely to feel uneasy because they have installed the electrolytic cell 5 from outside the main unit case 1 into the main unit case 1 but have not received a notification for a long time. Furthermore, the user is less likely to mistakenly conclude that the air purification device is malfunctioning.

[0325] As described above, when determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5, a long duration in the first time is undesirable. Thus, the optimal control method differs between the control for determining the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 and the control for determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0326] Therefore, the control unit 22 of Embodiment 4 includes an open / closed state acquisition unit 40, and the determination unit 50 of Embodiment 4 includes a first time determination unit 56.

[0327] The open / closed state acquisition unit 40 and the first time determination unit 56 are the same as in Embodiment 3, so their description is omitted.

[0328] The reasons for performing the above control are the same as in Embodiment 3. When the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, priority should be given to the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. For this reason, a longer first time is preferable. Also, when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, priority should be given to the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5. For this reason, a shorter first time is preferable.

[0329] Therefore, the determination unit 50 sets the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position to be shorter than the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position. In other words, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the opening / closing panel 3. This allows for accurate determination of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, and quick determination of the position of the electrolytic cell 5 in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5. When the user installs and removes the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning and maintenance, they will receive a quick notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5, making them less likely to feel any discomfort. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device D is malfunctioning is reduced. Furthermore, misjudgments of the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed. In other words, it can suppress the misjudgment that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Because misjudgments can be suppressed, it can prevent the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though the water level is not low. That is, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user.

[0330] Each functional block of the control unit 22 in Embodiment 4 can be implemented as hardware, such as a computer's CPU (Central Processing Unit), and as software, such as a computer program. However, in this case, the functional blocks are implemented through the coordination of these components. Therefore, these functional blocks can be implemented in various ways through combinations of hardware and software. In this embodiment, the control unit 22 is composed of a circuit board and is implemented through a combination of elements on the circuit board and a computer program.

[0331] Here, the larger the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5, the larger the first mean. In other words, as the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is consumed by the purification unit 15, etc., and the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 approaches the drought level, the first mean decreases. To put it another way, as the water in the electrolytic cell 5 is consumed by the purification unit 15, etc., and the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 approaches the drought level, the first mean decreases.

[0332] The first average is calculated every hour by the voltage difference calculation unit 83. The average value calculation unit 53 calculates the average of the first averages calculated from the first average calculated one number of times prior to the present to the present.

[0333] The state determination unit 54 determines that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state if the average value is below the first threshold. As mentioned above, the first threshold is used to determine whether or not there is a water level in the electrolytic cell 5 greater than the drought water level, which is the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 in a drought state. It is a value determined in advance through experiments, etc., and can be set arbitrarily. For example, the first average value when the electrolytic cell 5 has a drought water level can be calculated in advance through experiments, etc., and the calculated value can be stored in the storage unit 55 as the first threshold. This makes it possible to understand whether the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state. Since the amount of water in a drought state can be understood, the current flow by the electrode unit 14 in the drought state can be suppressed, and as a result, the deterioration of the electrode unit 14 can be suppressed.

[0334] Furthermore, the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1 by the user if the average value falls below the second threshold. Also, the status determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been attached to the main case 1 by the user if the average value exceeds the second threshold. This allows the location of the electrolytic cell 5 to be determined.

[0335] When the electrolytic cell 5 determines that the water level is low, the status determination unit 54 notifies the user via the notification unit 8 that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. This allows the user to understand that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Therefore, the user can understand that it is necessary to take action, such as refilling the water storage tank 9. Once the water storage tank 9 is refilled, the electrode unit 14 can be energized, and hypochlorous acid can be continuously generated.

[0336] Furthermore, if the state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from the main case 1, it notifies the notification unit 8 that the electrolytic cell 5 is in a state of being removed from the main case 1. Subsequently, if the average value becomes greater than the second threshold, the state determination unit 54 notifies the notification unit 8 that the electrolytic cell 5 has been attached to the main case 1. The notification method is as described above.

[0337] Here, it is preferable that the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process be performed at the same time. That is, it is preferable that at least timing T3 and timing T13 are performed at the same time, and timing T6 and timing T16 are performed at the same time. Also, it is preferable that timing T1 and timing T11 are performed at the same time. Also, it is preferable that timing T2 and timing T12 are performed at the same time. Also, it is preferable that timing T4 and timing T14 are performed at the same time. Also, it is preferable that timing T5 and timing T15 are performed at the same time.

[0338] The reason is the same as in Embodiment 3. In other words, even if the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, the first voltage, second voltage, third voltage, and fourth voltage will fluctuate depending on the timing. Also, even if the position of the electrolytic cell 5 is the same, the first voltage, second voltage, third voltage, and fourth voltage will fluctuate depending on the timing. As disclosed herein, by performing the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process at the same timing, the influence of changes in stray capacity can be suppressed. That is, water volume can be determined with high accuracy.

[0339] Specifically, the state determination unit 54 calculates the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage (first voltage difference) and the difference between the fourth voltage and the third voltage (second voltage difference) that were acquired at the same time when the same stray capacitance exists. Since the first voltage and the second voltage were acquired at the same time, the calculation of the first voltage difference cancels out the voltage changes corresponding to the same stray capacitance between the first voltage and the second voltage (first electrode 18 and second electrode 19). Similarly, since the fourth voltage and the third voltage were acquired at the same time, the calculation of the second voltage difference cancels out the voltage changes corresponding to the same stray capacitance between the fourth voltage and the third voltage (second electrode 19 and first electrode 18). In other words, the influence of changes in stray capacitance that change over time on the values ​​of the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference is suppressed.

[0340] If the first and second acquisition processes are performed at different times, the effects of changes in stray capacity over time are likely to affect the values ​​of the first and second voltage differences, thus worsening the accuracy of water volume determination and reducing the accuracy of determining whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, if the first and second acquisition processes are performed at different times, the effects of changes in stray capacity over time are likely to affect the values ​​of the first and second voltage differences, thus worsening the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0341] In this disclosure, since the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process are performed at the same time, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, since the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process are performed at the same time, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0342] Furthermore, the relationship between the water volume in the electrolytic cell 5 and the first mean is the same as in Figure 11, and by changing the first voltage difference in Figure 11 to the first mean, a similar relationship diagram can be obtained.

[0343] Here, the first time period includes the time from timing T1 to timing T6. Similarly, the first time period includes the time from timing T11 to timing T16.

[0344] As mentioned above, the first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3. The first time determination unit 56 determines the length of the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position to be shorter than the length of the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position.

[0345] Therefore, as a way to vary the first time, it is possible to vary the time from timing T1 to timing T2 and the time from timing T11 to timing T12. In other words, as a way to shorten the first time, the time from timing T1 to timing T2 and the time from timing T11 to timing T12 are shortened. This makes it possible to vary (shorten) the first time. However, it is preferable that the first electrode voltage is close to VDD at timing T2, and the second capacitor voltage is close to VDD at timing T12. Therefore, taking these into consideration, care must be taken not to shorten the time from timing T1 to timing T2 and the time from timing T11 to timing T12 too much.

[0346] Another way to vary the first time is to vary the time from timing T2 to timing T3 and the time from timing T12 to timing T13. In other words, one way to shorten the first time is to shorten the time from timing T2 to timing T3 and the time from timing T12 to timing T13. This allows the first time to be varied (shortened). However, it is preferable that the first electrode voltage and the first capacitor voltage are the same at timing T3, and that the second capacitor voltage and the second electrode voltage are the same at timing T13. Therefore, taking these into consideration, care must be taken not to shorten the time from timing T2 to timing T3 and the time from timing T12 to timing T13 too much. If the first electrode voltage and the first capacitor voltage are not the same at timing T3, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 acquires either the first electrode voltage or the first capacitor voltage as the first voltage. Similarly, if the second capacitor voltage and the second electrode voltage are not the same at timing T13, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 acquires either the second capacitor voltage or the second electrode voltage as the second voltage.

[0347] Another way to vary the first time is to vary the time from timing T4 to timing T5 and the time from timing T14 to timing T15. In other words, one way to shorten the first time is to shorten the time from timing T4 to timing T5 and the time from timing T14 to timing T15. This allows the first time to be varied (shortened). However, it is preferable that the first capacitor voltage is close to VDD at timing T5, and the second electrode voltage is close to VDD at timing T15. Also, it is preferable that the first electrode voltage is close to zero at timing T5, and the second capacitor voltage is close to zero at timing T15. Therefore, taking these factors into consideration, care must be taken not to shorten the time from timing T4 to timing T5 and the time from timing T14 to timing T15 too much.

[0348] Another way to vary the first time is to vary the time from timing T5 to timing T6 and the time from timing T15 to timing T16. In other words, one way to shorten the first time is to shorten the time from timing T5 to timing T6 and the time from timing T15 to timing T16. This allows the first time to be varied (shortened). However, it is preferable that the first electrode voltage and the first capacitor voltage are the same at timing T6, and that the second capacitor voltage and the second electrode voltage are the same at timing T16. Therefore, taking these into consideration, care must be taken not to shorten the time from timing T5 to timing T6 and the time from timing T15 to timing T16 too much. If the first electrode voltage and the first capacitor voltage are not the same at timing T6, the first voltage acquisition unit 81 acquires either the first electrode voltage or the first capacitor voltage as the third voltage. Similarly, if the second capacitor voltage and the second electrode voltage are not the same at timing T16, the second voltage acquisition unit 82 acquires either the second capacitor voltage or the second electrode voltage as the fourth voltage.

[0349] Here, the time from when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 18 until the third voltage is acquired in the first acquisition process (the time from timing T1 to timing T6) is defined as the first acquisition process time. The time from when a voltage is applied to the second capacitor 74 until the fourth voltage is acquired in the second acquisition process (the time from timing T11 to timing T16) is defined as the second acquisition process time.

[0350] The judgment unit 50 sets the first acquisition processing time and the second acquisition processing time to be the same. This is to improve the accuracy of water volume judgment and the accuracy of electrolytic cell 5 position judgment, as mentioned above. In other words, timing T1 and timing T11 are the same timing, and timing T6 and timing T16 are also the same timing.

[0351] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 shortens the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first acquisition processing time and the second acquisition processing time by the same amount of time.

[0352] Let's explain an example of shortening the first time. Here, the time it takes to charge the first electrode 18 during the first acquisition processing time (the time from timing T1 to timing T2) is defined as the first charge time. Then, the time it takes to connect the first electrode 18 and the first capacitor 64 during the first acquisition processing time (the time from timing T2 to timing T3) is defined as the first connection time. Furthermore, the time it takes to charge the second capacitor 74 during the second acquisition processing time (the time from timing T11 to timing T12) is defined as the second charge time. Then, the time it takes to connect the second electrode 19 and the second capacitor 74 during the second acquisition processing time is defined as the second connection time.

[0353] The determination unit 50 sets the first charge time and the second charge time to be the same, and the first connection time and the second connection time to be the same. In other words, timing T1 and timing T11 are the same timing, timing T2 and timing T12 are the same timing, and timing T3 and timing T13 are the same timing.

[0354] The determination unit 50 shortens the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first charge time and the second charge time by the same amount.

[0355] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the first and second charging times to the same duration, the timings of timing T2 and timing T12 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacity over time on the value of the first voltage difference can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to suppress a deterioration in the accuracy of water volume determination and a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0356] In this disclosure, by adjusting the first charging time and the second charging time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, because the first charging time and the second charging time are adjusted to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0357] Another example of shortening the first time is that the determination unit 50 may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first connection time and the second connection time by the same amount.

[0358] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the first and second connection times to the same duration, the timings of timing T3 and timing T13 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacity over time on the value of the first voltage difference can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to suppress a deterioration in the accuracy of water volume determination and a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0359] In this disclosure, by adjusting the first connection time and the second connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, because the first connection time and the second connection time are adjusted to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0360] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the first charge time and the second charge time by the same amount, and shortening the first connection time and the second connection time by the same amount.

[0361] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the first charge time and the second charge time to the same time, and the first connection time and the second connection time to the same time, the timing of timing T2 and timing T12, and the timing of timing T3 and timing T13 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacity that change over time on the value of the first voltage difference can be further suppressed. In other words, the deterioration of the accuracy of water volume judgment and the decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water volume in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be further suppressed. Similarly, the decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be further suppressed.

[0362] In this disclosure, by adjusting the first charging time and the second charging time to the same duration, and adjusting the first connection time and the second connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be further improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be further improved. Similarly, by adjusting the first charging time and the second charging time to the same duration, and adjusting the first connection time and the second connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be further improved.

[0363] Next, let's explain another example of shortening the first time. Here, the time it takes to charge the first capacitor 64 during the first acquisition processing time (the time from timing T4 to timing T5) is defined as the third charge time. Then, the time it takes to connect the first capacitor 64 and the first electrode 18 during the first acquisition processing time (the time from timing T5 to timing T6) is defined as the third connection time. Furthermore, the time it takes to charge the second electrode 19 during the second acquisition processing time (the time from timing T14 to timing T15) is defined as the fourth charge time. Then, the time it takes to connect the second capacitor 74 and the second electrode 19 during the second acquisition processing time (the time from timing T15 to timing T16) is defined as the fourth connection time.

[0364] The determination unit 50 sets the third charge time and the fourth charge time to be the same, and the third connection time and the fourth connection time to be the same. In other words, timing T4 and timing T14 are the same timing, timing T5 and timing T15 are the same timing, and timing T6 and timing T16 are the same timing.

[0365] The determination unit 50 shortens the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the third charge time and the fourth charge time by the same amount of time.

[0366] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the third and fourth charging times to the same duration, the timings of timing T5 and T15 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacity over time on the value of the second voltage difference can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to suppress a deterioration in the accuracy of water volume judgment and a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0367] In this disclosure, by adjusting the third and fourth charging times to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, thereby improving the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, because the third and fourth charging times are adjusted to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination for the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0368] Another example of shortening the first time is that the determination unit 50 may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the third connection time and the fourth connection time by the same amount.

[0369] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the third and fourth connection times to the same time, the timing of timing T6 and timing T16 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacity that change over time on the value of the second voltage difference can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to suppress a deterioration in the accuracy of water volume judgment and a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0370] In this disclosure, by adjusting the third connection time and the fourth connection time to the same duration, the accuracy of water volume determination can be improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved. Similarly, because the third connection time and the fourth connection time are adjusted to the same duration, the accuracy of position determination for the electrolytic cell 5 can be improved.

[0371] Furthermore, the determination unit 50 may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position by shortening the third charge time and the fourth charge time by the same amount, and shortening the third connection time and the fourth connection time by the same amount.

[0372] This allows for setting an appropriate first time according to the state of the open / closed panel 3. By adjusting the third charge time and the fourth charge time to the same time, and adjusting the third connection time and the fourth connection time to the same time, the timing of timing T5 and timing T15, and the timing of timing T6 and timing T16 can be synchronized. Therefore, the influence of changes in stray capacity that change over time on the value of the second voltage difference can be further suppressed. In other words, the deterioration of the accuracy of water volume judgment and the decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be further suppressed. Similarly, the decrease in the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be further suppressed.

[0373] In this disclosure, by adjusting the third charging time and the fourth charging time to the same time, and adjusting the third connection time and the fourth connection time to the same time, the accuracy of water volume determination can be further improved, and the accuracy of determining whether the water volume in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be further improved. Similarly, by adjusting the third charging time and the fourth charging time to the same time, and adjusting the third connection time and the fourth connection time to the same time, the accuracy of position determination of the electrolytic cell 5 can be further improved.

[0374] As described above, in Embodiment 4, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the open / closed panel.

[0375] Next, the detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 4 will be described. The detailed flow of control performed by the control unit 22 in Embodiment 4 is shown in Figure 7, similar to Embodiment 3.

[0376] Steps S13 and S14 in Embodiment 4 are the same as in Embodiment 3.

[0377] After step S13 or step S14, the determination unit 50 (average value calculation unit 53) calculates the average value of the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired up to the present, starting from the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 acquired one time step prior to the present. The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 is calculated every hour.

[0378] The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor 17 is the first average. In other words, the determination unit 50 calculates the average of the first averages obtained from the first average obtained one time before the present to the first average obtained up to the present. The first average is calculated every hour.

[0379] The state determination unit 54 determines that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a drought state if the average value is below the first threshold. The state determination unit 54 also determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is not in the first position if the average value is below the second threshold. The state determination unit 54 also determines that the electrolytic cell 5 is in the first position if the average value is greater than the second threshold.

[0380] Furthermore, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5. Similarly, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the state determination unit 54 may not determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5, but only determine the water level in the electrolytic cell 5.

[0381] As described above, with the control content of Embodiment 4, if the opening / closing panel 3 is in the open state, control can be performed to determine the position of the electrolytic cell 5 early. Since the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined quickly in the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5, notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be given quickly, and the occurrence of discomfort on the user can be suppressed. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning can be reduced.

[0382] Furthermore, if the open / closed state is not in the open state, i.e., in the closed state, it is possible to perform control that can accurately determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Because the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined accurately in the control, misjudgments can be suppressed. This prevents the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even though there is no shortage of water. In other words, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user. It can also suppress the occurrence of failures in the electrode unit 14.

[0383] Furthermore, when changing the first time, the first time is changed so that the lengths of the first and second charging times are the same, thereby suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of water volume determination and suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, a decrease in the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed.

[0384] Furthermore, when changing the first time, the first time is changed so that the lengths of the first and second connection times are the same, thereby suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of water volume determination and suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, a decrease in the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed.

[0385] Furthermore, when changing the first time, the length of the third and fourth charging times are made the same, thereby suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of water volume determination and suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, a decrease in the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed.

[0386] Furthermore, when changing the first time, the length of the third and fourth connection times are made the same, thereby suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of water volume determination and suppressing a decrease in the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state. Similarly, a decrease in the accuracy of determining the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed.

[0387] Thus, when the opening / closing panel 3 is in the closed position, the first time can be lengthened to prioritize the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5. Conversely, when the opening / closing panel is in the open position, the first time can be shortened to prioritize the control that determines the position of the electrolytic cell 5.

[0388] In other words, an appropriate first time can be set according to the state of the opening / closing panel 3. This allows for accurate determination of the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 in the control system, and quick determination of the location of the electrolytic cell 5 in the control system. When the user installs or removes the electrolytic cell 5 for cleaning or maintenance, they will receive a quick notification regarding the location of the electrolytic cell 5, making them less likely to feel any discomfort. Furthermore, the likelihood of the user mistakenly believing that the air purification device is malfunctioning is reduced. In addition, misjudgments of the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 can be suppressed. That is, it can suppress the misjudgment that the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is low. Because misjudgments can be suppressed, it can prevent the user from mistakenly believing that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 even though it is not low. In other words, it can suppress unnecessary water supply work by the user.

[0389] The reason why it is necessary to notify the user whether the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed in the main case 1 is the same as in Embodiment 3. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed from its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value falls below the second threshold. The state determination unit 54 determines that the electrolytic cell 5 has been installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 if the average value exceeds the second threshold. In this case, it is preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1. It is even more preferable that the second threshold is determined based on the capacitance when the electrolytic cell 5 is installed in its predetermined position in the main case 1 when there is no water in the electrolytic cell 5. By enabling notification of whether or not the electrolytic cell 5 is correctly installed in the main case 1, even if the opening / closing panel 3 is closed when the electrolytic cell 5 is not correctly installed, the user can be prompted to correctly install the electrolytic cell 5 in the main case 1. With this embodiment, the notification regarding the position of the electrolytic cell 5 comes quickly, so the user is less likely to feel uncomfortable. In addition, the possibility of the user mistakenly concluding that the air purification device is malfunctioning is reduced.

[0390] Furthermore, Embodiment 4 also achieves another effect by performing the control described in Embodiment 3. Specifically, since it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed when the opening / closing panel 3 is open, errors in error judgment can be suppressed. In addition, notifications of incorrect error judgments to the user can be suppressed. Moreover, Embodiment 4 also achieves the effect of suppressing errors in error judgment without delaying the determination of the open / closed state of the opening / closing panel 3, as described in Embodiment 3.

[0391] Furthermore, Embodiment 4 also provides another benefit by performing the control described in Embodiment 3. Specifically, when the opening / closing panel 3 is opened and the electrolytic cell 5 is removed, it is possible to determine early that the electrolytic cell 5 has been removed. Subsequently, the user installs the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water into the main unit case 1. Since the opening / closing panel 3 is still open when the user installs it, the first time is short, and it is determined early that the electrolytic cell 5 filled with water has been installed. In other words, the notification unit 8 will not send a notification of a low water level for a certain period of time. Thus, this embodiment can suppress incorrect judgments of a low water level. It can also suppress incorrect notifications of a low water level to the user.

[0392] Here, we will explain the comparative example. The comparative example is a capacitive sensor used in touch panels of mobile devices, etc. We define the capacitive sensor used in touch panels as the comparison sensor. The comparison sensor is detectable by a single electrode and detects touch by changes in capacitance. Specifically, the voltage and capacitance values ​​when no one is touching the sensor are used as reference values, and touch is detected when the change from the reference value exceeds a threshold. Because the change from the reference value due to touch is large, using the comparison sensor does not pose a particular problem in such touch detection. However, it becomes problematic when attempting to detect changes in water volume in a situation where the electrode and water are separated and the water does not directly touch the electrode, as in the present disclosure. In a situation where the electrode and water are separated, as in the present disclosure, the change in voltage and capacitance values ​​associated with changes in water volume is very small compared to the change associated with touch detection. In other words, the comparison sensor cannot accurately detect changes in water volume in the present disclosure. However, in the present disclosure, changes in water volume can be detected, improving the accuracy of water volume determination. Therefore, the accuracy of determining whether the water level in the electrolytic cell 5 is in a low-water state can be improved.

[0393] Although the present disclosure has been described above based on Embodiments 1 to 4, it can be easily inferred that the present disclosure is not limited in any way and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0394] For example, the air purification device may include both the first count determination unit 51 of Embodiment 1 and the first time determination unit 56 of Embodiment 4. In other words, it may perform both control that changes the first count based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 of Embodiment 1, and control that changes the length of the first time based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel 3 of Embodiment 4.

[0395] This enables control that allows for earlier determination of the electrolytic cell 5's position. Because the position of the electrolytic cell 5 can be determined more quickly in the control system, notifications regarding its location can be made more promptly, further reducing the likelihood of user discomfort. Furthermore, the possibility of the user mistakenly believing the air purification device is malfunctioning can be further reduced.

[0396] Furthermore, it is possible to control the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 with even greater accuracy. Since the control that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 can determine the amount of water in the electrolytic cell 5 with even greater accuracy, misjudgments can be further suppressed. This further suppresses situations in which the user mistakenly believes that water needs to be supplied to the water storage tank 9 to improve the water level in the electrolytic cell 5, even when there is no shortage of water. In other words, unnecessary water supply work by the user can be further suppressed.

[0397] Furthermore, multiple independent electrostatic sensors 17 may be provided in the electrostatic sensor space 31. This allows for accurate detection of multiple water levels. It also allows for accurate detection of the water volume in the water storage tank 9.

[0398] The first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may be integrated with the circuit board of the control unit 22. In other words, the first electrode 18 and the second electrode 19 may be formed on the circuit board. For example, they may be formed as copper foil patterns on the circuit board.

[0399] (Summary of Disclosure) The air purification device disclosed herein 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 inside the main body case Set up The device is detachable from the main case and comprises an electrolytic cell for mixing an electrolytic accelerator and water, an openable / closable panel for allowing the electrolytic cell to move between the inside and outside of the main case, an electrode unit for generating 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 water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell, and a determination unit that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor. The determination unit acquires the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor every hour, calculates the average value of the capacitance acquired from the capacitance acquired one number of times prior to the present to the present, determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell based on the calculated average value, and changes the first number of times based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel.

[0400] This allows for decision-making with an appropriate response speed while suppressing false detections of water volume.

[0401] Furthermore, the determination unit may make the value of the first count when the opening / closing panel is in the open position smaller than the value of the first count when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position.

[0402] This allows for accurate determination of the electrolytic cell's location with a suitable response speed while suppressing false detections of water volume.

[0403] Another air purification device according to this disclosure 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 provided inside the main body case and detachable from the main body case for mixing an electrolytic accelerator and water; an openable / closable panel that allows the electrolytic cell to move between the inside and outside of the main body case; 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 water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell; and a determination unit that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor. The determination unit acquires the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor every first hour, calculates the average value of the capacitances acquired from the capacitance acquired one number of times prior to the present to the present, determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell based on the calculated average value, and changes the length of the first hour based on the open / closed state of the open / closed panel.

[0404] This allows for decision-making with an appropriate response speed while suppressing false detections of water volume.

[0405] Furthermore, the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position may be shorter than the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position.

[0406] This allows for accurate determination of the electrolytic cell's location with a suitable response speed while suppressing false detections of water volume.

[0407] Furthermore, the electrostatic sensor may include a first electrode and a second electrode whose width increases when viewed from the vertical downward direction, and the first and second electrodes may be provided at the same height and exhibit the same capacitance characteristics when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is the same.

[0408] Furthermore, the first electrode and the second electrode may be symmetrical.

[0409] As a result, when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is the same, the first electrode and the second electrode can exhibit the same capacitance characteristics.

[0410] Furthermore, the first electrode and the second electrode may have the same shape.

[0411] As a result, when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is the same, the first electrode and the second electrode can exhibit the same capacitance characteristics.

[0412] The electrostatic sensor also includes a first capacitor and a second capacitor whose capacitance does not change with respect to the amount of water in the electrolytic cell, and the determination unit may perform a first acquisition process in which a voltage is applied to the first electrode to charge the first electrode, the application is stopped, and a first voltage is obtained, which is the voltage of the first electrode or the first capacitor when the first electrode and the first capacitor are connected; and a second acquisition process in which a voltage is applied to the second capacitor to charge the second capacitor, the application is stopped, and a second voltage is obtained, which is the voltage of the second electrode or the second capacitor when the second electrode and the second capacitor are connected, and the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor may be determined based on the voltage difference, which is the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage.

[0413] This allows for accurate detection of changes in the water level of the electrolytic cell, thereby improving the accuracy of determining the water level. Furthermore, it allows for accurate detection of changes in the position of the electrolytic cell, improving the accuracy of determining its position.

[0414] Furthermore, the decision-making unit may perform the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process at the same time.

[0415] This suppresses the effects of changes in buoyancy capacity. In other words, it suppresses changes in the voltage difference due to changes in buoyancy capacity, thereby improving the accuracy of water volume and position determination.

[0416] Furthermore, the determination unit may shorten the first time when the switching panel is in the open position by making the first acquisition processing time, which is the time from when a voltage is applied to the first electrode in the first acquisition process until the first voltage is acquired, and the second acquisition processing time, which is the time from when a voltage is applied to the second capacitor in the second acquisition process until the second voltage is acquired, the same, and shortening both the first and second acquisition processing times by the same amount.

[0417] This suppresses changes in the voltage difference due to changes in buoyancy capacity, further improving the accuracy of water volume and position determination.

[0418] Furthermore, if the time spent charging the first electrode during the first acquisition processing time is defined as the first charge time, the time spent connecting the first electrode and the first capacitor during the first acquisition processing time is defined as the first connection time, the time spent charging the second capacitor during the second acquisition processing time is defined as the second charge time, and the time spent connecting the second electrode and the second capacitor during the second acquisition processing time is defined as the second connection time, then the first charge time and the second charge time are the same time, and the first connection time and the second connection time are the same time. The determination unit may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position by shortening the first charge time and the second charge time by the same amount of time.

[0419] This further suppresses changes in voltage differences due to changes in buoyancy capacity, thereby improving the accuracy of water volume and position determination.

[0420] Furthermore, if the time spent charging the first electrode during the first acquisition processing time is defined as the first charge time, the time spent connecting the first electrode and the first capacitor during the first acquisition processing time is defined as the first connection time, the time spent charging the second capacitor during the second acquisition processing time is defined as the second charge time, and the time spent connecting the second electrode and the second capacitor during the second acquisition processing time is defined as the second connection time, then the first charge time and the second charge time are the same time, and the first connection time and the second connection time are the same time. The determination unit may shorten the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position by shortening the first connection time and the second connection time by the same amount of time.

[0421] This further suppresses changes in voltage differences due to changes in buoyancy capacity, thereby improving the accuracy of water volume and position determination.

[0422] Furthermore, the judgment unit may determine that the electrolytic cell is in a drought state if the average value of the voltage difference is below the drought threshold.

[0423] This allows for accurate detection of water shortages in the electrolytic cell.

[0424] Furthermore, the judgment unit may determine that the electrolytic cell is in a position where it has been removed from the main unit case if the average value of the voltage difference is less than or equal to a movement threshold which is less than the dehydration threshold.

[0425] This allows for accurate determination of the location where the electrolytic cell has been removed from the main unit case. [Industrial applicability]

[0426] The space purification device described herein is useful as a space purification device for purifying space. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0427] D. Air purification device 1. Main unit case 2. Inlet 3 Opening / Closing Panel 4. Open / Close Detection Unit 5 Electrolytic cell 6 Air outlet 8 Notification section 9. Water storage tank 10 Lid 12. Air blower 13 Wind path 14 Electrode section 15 Purification section 16 Bulkhead 17. Electrostatic recovery 18 1st electrode 19 2nd electrode 22 Control Unit 31 Electrostatic sensor space 32 Electrolyzer space 40 Open / closed state acquisition unit 50 Judgment Department 51. First Count Determination Section 52 Capacitance acquisition section 53 Average Value Calculation Section 54 State determination unit 55 Storage section 56. First Period Decision Section 60 First voltage application section 61 First connection section 62 Second connection section 63 First Ground 64. First Capacitor 70 Second voltage application section 71 Third connection section 72 Fourth Connection Section 73 Second Ground 74 Second Capacitor 81 First voltage acquisition unit 82 Second Voltage Acquisition Unit 83 Voltage Difference Calculation Unit 100 front 101 Rear 102 First aspect 103 Second aspect 104 Top surface 105 Bottom surface

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, An electrolytic cell is provided inside the main body case and is detachable from the main body case, for mixing an electrolytic accelerator and water, An openable and closable panel for allowing the electrolytic cell to move between the inside and outside of the main body case, 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 water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell, The system includes a determination unit that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor, The unit that makes the determination said, The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor is acquired every first hour. The average value of the capacitance obtained from the capacitance obtained one number of times prior to the present is calculated. Based on the average value calculated above, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell are determined. Based on the open / closed state of the aforementioned opening / closing panel, the first number of times is changed. Air purification device.

2. The unit that makes the determination said, The air purification device according to claim 1, wherein the value of the first count when the opening / closing panel is in the open position is smaller than the value of the first count when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position.

3. 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 is provided inside the main body case and is detachable from the main body case, for mixing an electrolytic accelerator and water, An openable and closable panel for allowing the electrolytic cell to move between the inside and outside of the main body case, 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 water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell, The system includes a determination unit that determines the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell based on the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor, The unit that makes the determination said, The capacitance of the electrostatic sensor is acquired every first hour. The average value of the capacitance obtained from the capacitance obtained one number of times prior to the present is calculated. Based on the average value calculated above, the amount of water in the electrolytic cell and the position of the electrolytic cell are determined. Based on the open / closed state of the aforementioned opening / closing panel, the length of the first time is changed. Air purification device.

4. The air purification device according to claim 3, wherein the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position is shorter than the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the closed position.

5. The electrostatic sensor is It is equipped with a first electrode and a second electrode whose width increases when directed downward in the vertical direction, The first electrode and the second electrode are They are installed at the same height, The air purification device according to claim 3, which exhibits the same capacitance characteristics when the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is the same.

6. The space purification device according to claim 5, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are symmetrical.

7. The air purification device according to claim 5, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode have the same shape.

8. The electrolytic cell comprises a first capacitor and a second capacitor whose capacitance does not change with respect to the amount of water in the electrolytic cell, The unit that makes the determination said, A first acquisition process involves applying a voltage to the first electrode to charge the first electrode, stopping the voltage application, and acquiring a first voltage which is the voltage of the first electrode or the first capacitor when the first electrode and the first capacitor are connected. A second acquisition process is performed to charge the second capacitor by applying a voltage to it, stop the voltage application, and acquire a second voltage which is the voltage of the second electrode or the second capacitor when the second electrode and the second capacitor are connected. The space purification device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the capacitance of the electrostatic sensor is determined based on the voltage difference, which is the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage.

9. The unit that makes the determination said, The space purification device according to claim 8, wherein the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process are performed at the same time.

10. The unit that makes the determination said, In the first acquisition process, the first acquisition process time, which is the time from when a voltage is applied to the first electrode until the first voltage is acquired, and in the second acquisition process, the second acquisition process time, which is the time from when a voltage is applied to the second capacitor until the second voltage is acquired, are made equal. The space purification device according to claim 8, wherein the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position is shortened by shortening the first acquisition processing time and the second acquisition processing time by the same amount of time.

11. The time during the first acquisition processing time for charging the first electrode is defined as the first charging time. The time during the first acquisition processing time when the first electrode and the first capacitor are connected is defined as the first connection time. The time during the second acquisition processing time for charging the second capacitor is defined as the second charging time. If the time during the second acquisition processing time when the second electrode and the second capacitor are connected is defined as the second connection time, The first charging time and the second charging time are the same time, and the first connection time and the second connection time are the same time. The unit that makes the determination said, The air purification device according to claim 10, wherein the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position is shortened by shortening the first charging time and the second charging time by the same amount of time.

12. The time during the first acquisition processing time for charging the first electrode is defined as the first charging time. The time during the first acquisition processing time when the first electrode and the first capacitor are connected is defined as the first connection time. The time during the second acquisition processing time for charging the second capacitor is defined as the second charging time. If the time during the second acquisition processing time when the second electrode and the second capacitor are connected is defined as the second connection time, The first charging time and the second charging time are the same time, and the first connection time and the second connection time are the same time. The unit that makes the determination said, The air purification device according to claim 10, wherein the first time when the opening / closing panel is in the open position is shortened by shortening the first connection time and the second connection time by the same amount of time.

13. The unit that makes the determination said, The air purification device according to claim 8, wherein if the average value of the voltage difference is below a drought threshold, it is determined that the amount of water in the electrolytic cell is in a drought state due to insufficient water.

14. The unit that makes the determination said, The air purification device according to claim 13, wherein if the average value of the voltage difference is less than or equal to a movement threshold which is smaller than the dehydration threshold, it is determined that the electrolytic cell is in a position where it has been removed from the main body case.

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