Humidifier

Abstract

To provide a humidifier that can efficiently and quickly sterilize the water in the first and second humidification sections. [Solution] A humidifier comprising: a first humidification unit; a second humidification unit; a sterilization mechanism for sterilizing water; a pump for generating a water flow; and a control unit that selects and executes one of several modes, including a first mode in which the pump circulates water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism between the first humidification unit and the sterilization mechanism, and does not send water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism to the second humidification unit; and a second mode in which the pump circulates water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism between the second humidification unit and the sterilization mechanism, and does not send water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism to the first humidification unit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidification device.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] As described in Patent Document 1, a humidification device is known that includes a water storage tank for storing water, a water crushing unit configured to crush the stored water in the water storage tank to generate nanomist and negative ions, and a blower that draws in indoor air and discharges air containing the nanomist and negative ions generated by the water crushing unit to the outside from a blowout port.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0003]

PATENT DOCUMENT 1

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0004] However, the humidification device described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that microorganisms such as bacteria propagate inside the water storage tank, or in the supply pipe that supplies water into the water storage tank and the like.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0005] The humidification device of the present invention includes a first humidification unit, a second humidification unit, a sterilization mechanism for sterilizing water, a pump for generating a water flow, and a control unit that selects and executes one mode from a plurality of modes including a first mode in which water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism using the pump is circulated between the first humidification unit and the sterilization mechanism and the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism is not sent to the second humidification unit, and a second mode in which water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism using the pump is circulated between the second humidification unit and the sterilization mechanism and the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism is not sent to the first humidification unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a fiber manufacturing apparatus as a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram of the fiber manufacturing apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the first humidification unit of the humidifier shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the second humidification unit of the humidifier shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the humidifier shown in Figure 1, illustrating the state in which the water supply mode is being executed. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the humidifier shown in Figure 1, and depicts the humidifier in drainage mode. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the humidifier shown in Figure 1, illustrating the state in which the first mode is being executed. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the humidifier shown in Figure 1, illustrating the state in which the second mode is being executed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The humidifier of the present invention will be described in detail below based on preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0008] <Embodiment> Figure 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fiber manufacturing apparatus as a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the fiber manufacturing apparatus shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the first humidification unit of the humidifier shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the second humidification unit of the humidifier shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidifier shown in Figure 1, showing the state in which the water supply mode is being executed. Figure 6 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidifier shown in Figure 1, showing the state in which the drainage mode is being executed. Figure 7 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidifier shown in Figure 1, showing the state in which the first mode is being executed. Figure 8 is a schematic configuration diagram of the humidifier shown in Figure 1, showing the state in which the second mode is being executed.

[0009] In the following, the upper side of Figures 3 and 4 may be referred to as "up" or "upper," and the lower side as "down" or "downward." Also, the left side of Figures 3 and 4 may be referred to as "left" or "left side," and the right side as "right" or "right side." Furthermore, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram, and the positional relationships, orientations, sizes, etc., of the various parts of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 are not limited to those shown. In Figure 1, the direction in which the coarse fragments M2, defibrated material M3, first sorted material M4-1, second sorted material M4-2, first web M5, subdivided material M6, mixture M7, second web M8, and sheet S1 are conveyed, i.e., the direction indicated by the arrow, is also referred to as the conveying direction. Furthermore, the tip of the arrow in Figure 1 is also referred to as the "downstream side" in the conveying direction, and the base of the arrow in Figure 1 is also referred to as the "upstream side" in the conveying direction.

[0010] The fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 is a fiber manufacturing apparatus that produces a sheet S1, which is an example of a molded product, from a raw material M1, such as used copy paper. The molded product produced by the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is not limited to a sheet S1, but may also be a plate-shaped member or a block-shaped member. Furthermore, products such as bags processed from the sheet S1, etc., are also included in the definition of a molded product.

[0011] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 includes a humidification unit 4, a raw material supply unit 11, a coarse crushing unit 12, a defibration unit 13, a sorting unit 14, a first web generation unit 15, a subdivision unit 16, a mixing unit 17, a deposition unit 18, a molding unit 20, a cutting unit 21, a stock unit 22, a recovery unit 27, and a control device 28.

[0012] Furthermore, in the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100, the raw material supply process, coarse crushing process, defibration process, sorting process, first web generation process, division process, mixing process, second web generation process, molding process, and cutting process are executed in this order. In addition, in the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100, a mode selection process, which will be described later, is executed prior to the raw material supply process, if necessary.

[0013] The following describes the structure of each part. The raw material supply unit 11 is the part that performs the raw material supply process, supplying raw material M1 to the crushing unit 12. This raw material M1 is, for example, a sheet-like material made of a fiber-containing material that includes cellulose fibers. The raw material M1 may be any fiber-containing material that includes chemical fibers or any other fibers, and its shape is not limited to a sheet, but may be any shape such as a lump.

[0014] The coarse crushing section 12 is the part that performs a coarse crushing process in which the raw material M1 supplied from the raw material supply section 11 is coarsely crushed in the air or other air. The coarse crushing section 12 has a pair of coarse crushing blades 121 and a chute 122.

[0015] The pair of coarse crushing blades 121 rotate in opposite directions to crush the raw material M1 between them, i.e., cut it into coarse pieces M2. The shape and size of the coarse pieces M2 are preferably suitable for the defibration process in the defibration section 13. Examples of the shape of the coarse pieces M2 include small pieces with a square planar shape, rectangular pieces, and especially small pieces in the shape of strips. The size of the coarse pieces M2 is preferably small pieces with an average side length of 100 mm or less, and more preferably small pieces with a length of 3 mm to 70 mm. The shape of the small pieces may be other than square or rectangular. The thickness is preferably 0.07 mm to 0.10 mm.

[0016] The chute 122 is disposed below the pair of coarse crushing blades 121, and has, for example, a conical or funnel shape. Thereby, the chute 122 can receive the coarsely crushed pieces M2 that have been coarsely crushed by the coarse crushing blades 121 and fallen down.

[0017] Further, above the chute 122, a humidifying section 231 which is a blowout port for humidified air is disposed adjacent to the pair of coarse crushing blades 121. The humidifying section 231 humidifies the coarsely crushed pieces M2 in the chute 122. By supplying the humidified air to the coarsely crushed pieces M2, it is possible to suppress the coarsely crushed pieces M2 from adhering to the chute 122 and the like due to electrostatic force.

[0018] The chute 122 is connected to the defibration section 13. The coarsely crushed pieces M2 collected by the chute 122 are supplied to the defibration section 13. The defibration section 13 is a part that performs a defibration step of defibrating the coarsely crushed pieces M2 in air, that is, by a dry process. By the defibration treatment in the defibration section 13, a defibrated material M3 can be generated from the coarsely crushed pieces M2. Here, "defibrating" refers to unraveling the coarsely crushed pieces M2 formed by binding a plurality of fibers into individual fibers. Then, the unraveled material becomes the defibrated material M3. The shape of the defibrated material M3 is linear or strip-like. Further, the defibrated materials M3 may exist in a state of being entangled to form a lump, that is, in a state of forming a so-called "clump".

[0019] Further, the defibration section 13 can generate an air flow directed toward the sorting section 14, that is, an air stream, by rotation of a rotor (not shown). Thereby, the coarsely crushed pieces M2 can be introduced from the pipe 241 to the upstream side of the defibration section 13, and after the defibration treatment, the defibrated material M3 can be sent out to the sorting section 14 via the pipe 242.

[0020] A pipe 242 is connected to the downstream side of the defibration section 13. A blower 261, for example, consisting of a turbo-type fan, is installed in the middle of the pipe 242. The blower 261 is an airflow generator that generates an airflow directed toward the sorting section 14. This facilitates the introduction of coarse fragments M2 into the defibration section 13 and the delivery of defibrated material M3 to the sorting section 14. Due to its structure, the defibration section 13 allows for the smooth passage of the raw material, coarse fragments M2, and the defibration process. However, the operation of the blower 261 installed downstream of the defibration section 13 further facilitates the passage of the coarse fragments M2 within the defibration section 13 and the defibration process. The blower 261 may also be installed upstream of the defibration section 13.

[0021] The sorting section 14 is the part that performs a sorting process to select fibers from the defibrated material M3 that will be used in subsequent processes. In the sorting section 14, the defibrated material M3 is sorted into first sorted material M4-1 and second sorted material M4-2, which has a longer fiber length than the first sorted material M4-1. The first sorted material M4-1 is of a size suitable for the subsequent manufacture of the sheet S1. On the other hand, the second sorted material M4-2 includes, for example, materials that have not been sufficiently defibrated or materials in which the defibrated fibers have excessively aggregated.

[0022] The sorting unit 14 includes a drum section 141 and a housing section 142 that houses the drum section 141.

[0023] The drum section 141 is a sieve composed of a cylindrical mesh body that rotates around its central axis. The defibrated material M3 flows into this drum section 141. As the drum section 141 rotates, the defibrated material M3 smaller than the mesh opening is sorted as the first sorted material M4-1, and the defibrated material M3 larger than the mesh opening is sorted as the second sorted material M4-2.

[0024] The first sorted item, M4-1, falls from the drum section 141. Meanwhile, the second sorted material M4-2 is sent to a pipe 243 connected to the drum section 141. The pipe 243 has its downstream end, opposite to the drum section 141, connected to the middle of the pipe 241. After passing through this pipe 243, the second sorted material M4-2 merges with the coarse fragments M2 within the pipe 241 and flows into the defibration section 13 together with the coarse fragments M2. As a result, the second sorted material M4-2 is returned to the defibration section 13 and subjected to defibration processing together with the coarse fragments M2.

[0025] Furthermore, the first sorted material M4-1 that falls from the drum section 141 disperses into the air as it falls toward the first web generation section 15 located below the drum section 141. The first web generation section 15 is the part that performs the first web generation process, which generates the first web M5 from the first sorted material M4-1. The first web generation section 15 has a mesh belt 151, three tension rollers 152, and a suction section 153.

[0026] The mesh belt 151 is an endless belt on which the first sorted material M4-1 accumulates. This mesh belt 151 is wrapped around three tension rollers 152. The rotational drive of the tension rollers 152 then transports the first sorted material M4-1 on the mesh belt 151 downstream.

[0027] The first sorted material M4-1 is larger than the mesh opening of the mesh belt 151. As a result, the passage of the first sorted material M4-1 through the mesh belt 151 is restricted, and it can accumulate on the mesh belt 151. Furthermore, as the first sorted material M4-1 accumulates on the mesh belt 151 and is transported downstream along with the mesh belt 151, it is generated as a layered first web M5.

[0028] Furthermore, the first sorted material M4-1 may contain, for example, dust and dirt. Dust and dirt can be generated, for example, by crushing or defibration. Such dust and dirt will be collected in the recovery unit 27, which will be described later.

[0029] The suction unit 153 is a suction mechanism that draws air from below the mesh belt 151. This allows dust and dirt that have passed through the mesh belt 151 to be drawn in along with the air.

[0030] Furthermore, the suction unit 153 is connected to the collection unit 27 via the pipe 244. Dust and dirt sucked up by the suction unit 153 are collected in the collection unit 27.

[0031] A pipe 245 is further connected to the recovery unit 27. A blower 262 is installed in the middle of the pipe 245. The operation of this blower 262 generates suction force in the suction unit 153. This promotes the formation of the first web M5 on the mesh belt 151. This first web M5 is made up of dust and dirt that has been removed. The dust and dirt are also passed through the pipe 244 by the operation of the blower 262 and reach the recovery unit 27.

[0032] The housing section 142 is connected to the humidification section 232, which is a humidified air outlet. As a result, humidified air is supplied into the housing section 142. This humidified air can humidify the first sorted material M4-1, and thus it is possible to suppress the first sorted material M4-1 from adhering to the inner wall of the housing section 142 due to electrostatic force.

[0033] A humidification unit 234, which is an outlet for humidified air, is located downstream of the sorting unit 14. This allows moisture to be supplied to the first web M5, thereby adjusting the moisture content of the first web M5. This adjustment suppresses the adhesion of the first web M5 to the mesh belt 151 due to electrostatic force. As a result, the first web M5 is easily detached from the mesh belt 151 at the position where the mesh belt 151 is folded back by the tension roller 152.

[0034] A subdivision section 16 is located downstream of the humidification section 234. The subdivision section 16 is the part that performs the subdivision process of dividing the first web M5 that has been separated from the mesh belt 151. The subdivision section 16 has a rotatably supported propeller 161 and a housing section 162 that houses the propeller 161. The first web M5 can be divided by the rotating propeller 161. The divided first web M5 becomes a subdivision body M6. The subdivision body M6 then descends within the housing section 162.

[0035] The housing section 162 is connected to the humidification section 233, which is the outlet for humidified air. As a result, humidified air is supplied into the housing section 162. This humidified air also helps to suppress the adhesion of the fragments M6 to the propeller 161 and the inner walls of the housing section 162 due to electrostatic force.

[0036] A mixing section 17 is located downstream of the subdivision section 16. The mixing section 17 is the part that performs the mixing process of mixing the subdivided material M6 with the additive. This mixing section 17 has an additive supply section 171, a pipe 172, and a blower 173. The pipe 172 connects the housing section 162 of the subdivision section 16 to the deposition section 18, and is a flow path through which the mixture M7 of the subdivided material M6 and the additive passes.

[0037] An additive supply unit 171 is connected to the middle of the pipe 172. The additive supply unit 171 has a housing unit 170 containing the additive and a screw feeder 174 provided inside the housing unit 170. The rotation of the screw feeder 174 pushes the additive inside the housing unit 170 out and supplies it into the pipe 172. The additive supplied into the pipe 172 is mixed with the fractionated product M6 to form a mixture M7.

[0038] Here, examples of additives supplied from the additive supply unit 171 include binders that bind fibers together, colorants for coloring fibers, flocculation inhibitors to suppress fiber aggregation, flame retardants to make fibers less flammable, and paper strength enhancers to increase the paper strength of the sheet S1. One or more of these can be used in combination. Below, as an example, the case in which the additive is a binder P1 will be described. By including a binder that binds fibers together in the additive, the strength of the sheet S1 can be increased.

[0039] Examples of binders P1 include thermoplastic resins such as various polyolefins, acrylic resins, polyvinyl chloride, polyester, and polyamide, various thermoplastic elastomers, and natural product-derived components such as starch, dextrin, glycogen, amylose, hyaluronic acid, kudzu, konjac, potato starch, etherified starch, esterified starch, natural gum glue, fiber-inducing glue, seaweed, and animal protein. One or more of these can be selected and used in combination.

[0040] A blower 173 is installed in the middle of the pipe 172, downstream of the additive supply section 171. The action of the rotating parts of the blower 173, such as blades, promotes the mixing of the fractionated material M6 and the binder P1. The blower 173 can also generate an airflow directed toward the deposition section 18. This airflow can agitate the fractionated material M6 and the binder P1 within the pipe 172. As a result, the mixture M7 is transported to the deposition section 18 in a state where the fractionated material M6 and the binder P1 are uniformly dispersed. In addition, the fractionated material M6 in the mixture M7 is broken down as it passes through the pipe 172, becoming finer and more fibrous.

[0041] The raw material supply section 11 to the mixing section 17 constitute a transport path 10 that transports materials containing fibers (raw materials M1 to mixture M7).

[0042] The deposition section 18 shown in Figure 1 is the part that performs the second web generation process, in which the mixture M7 is dispersed in the air and deposited to generate the second web M8 as a deposit. In other words, the deposition section 18 deposits the mixture M7 that has been transported via the transport path 10 to generate the second web M8 as a deposit.

[0043] The deposition section 18 includes a drum 181 for introducing and releasing the mixture M7, a housing 182 for housing the drum 181, and a second web generation section 19.

[0044] The drum 181 is a sieve composed of a cylindrical mesh body that rotates around its central axis. As the drum 181 rotates, fibers and other particles in the mixture M7 that are smaller than the mesh opening can pass through the drum 181. In the process, the mixture M7 is loosened and released along with the air.

[0045] The drum 181 is connected to a drive source (not shown) and rotates due to the rotational force output from the drive source. The drive source is electrically connected to a control device 28, and its operation is controlled.

[0046] Furthermore, the mixture M7 released from the drum 181 disperses into the air and falls toward the second web generation unit 19 located below the drum 181. The second web generation unit 19 has a mesh belt 191, four tension rollers 192, and a suction unit 193.

[0047] The mesh belt 191 is a mesh member, and in the illustrated configuration, it is composed of an endless belt. The mixture M7 is deposited on the mesh belt 191. This mesh belt 191 is wrapped around four tension rollers 192. The rotational drive of the tension rollers 192 conveys the mixture M7 on the mesh belt 191 to the downstream side.

[0048] In the illustrated configuration, a mesh belt 191 is used as an example of a mesh member, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a flat plate may also be used.

[0049] Furthermore, most of the mixture M7 on the mesh belt 191 is larger than the mesh opening of the mesh belt 191. This restricts the mixture M7 from passing through the mesh belt 191, and thus it can accumulate on the mesh belt 191. In addition, as the mixture M7 accumulates on the mesh belt 191, it is transported downstream along with the mesh belt 191, thus forming a layered second web M8.

[0050] The suction unit 193 is a suction mechanism that draws air from below the mesh belt 191. This allows the mixture M7 to be drawn onto the mesh belt 191, thereby promoting the accumulation of the mixture M7 on the mesh belt 191.

[0051] A pipe 246 is connected to the suction unit 193. A blower 263 is installed in the middle of this pipe 246. The operation of this blower 263 generates suction force in the suction unit 193.

[0052] Furthermore, a humidifier 236 is connected to the housing 182. This allows humidified air to be supplied into the deposit section 18. This humidified air can humidify the mixture M7, thereby suppressing the adhesion of the mixture M7 to the inner wall of the housing 182 due to electrostatic force.

[0053] Furthermore, a humidifying section 235A, which is the outlet of the humidifier 235, is installed on the mesh belt 191. This allows humidified air to be supplied to the second web M8 on the mesh belt 191. This humidified air humidifies the second web M8, and thus the second web M8 is properly separated from the mesh belt 191.

[0054] A molding section 20 is located downstream (on the right) of the deposition section 18. The molding section 20 is the part that performs the molding process to generate the sheet S1 from the second web M8. This molding section 20 has a pressurizing section 201, a heating section 202, and a cutting section 21.

[0055] The pressurizing section 201 has a pair of calender rollers 203, and can pressurize the second web M8 between the calender rollers 203 without heating it. This increases the density of the second web M8. When heating is used, it is preferable to heat it to an extent that does not melt the binder P1. The second web M8 is then conveyed toward the heating section 202. One of the pair of calender rollers 203 is a driven roller driven by a motor (not shown), and the other is a driven roller.

[0056] The heating section 202 has a pair of heating rollers 204 downstream of the pressurizing section 201, and can heat and pressurize the second web M8 between the heating rollers 204. Due to this heating and pressurizing, the binder P1 melts within the second web M8, and the fibers bond together via this molten binder P1. This generates a sheet S1. This sheet S1 is then conveyed toward the cutting section 21. One of the pair of heating rollers 204 is a driven roller driven by a motor (not shown), and the other is a driven roller.

[0057] A cutting section 21 is located downstream (on the right) of the heating section 202. The cutting section 21 is the part that performs the cutting process for cutting the sheet S1. This cutting section 21 has a first cutter 211 and a second cutter 212. The first cutter 211 cuts the sheet S1 in a direction intersecting, particularly perpendicular to, the conveying direction of the sheet S1. The second cutter 212 is located downstream of the first cutter 211 and cuts the sheet S1 in a direction parallel to the conveying direction of the sheet S1. This cutting removes unnecessary portions from both ends of the sheet S1 in the width direction, thereby adjusting the width of the sheet S1.

[0058] Cutting by the first cutter 211 and the second cutter 212 yields a sheet S1 of the desired shape and size. A stock section 22 is installed downstream (on the right) of the cutting section 21. The sheet S1 obtained through the cutting section 21 is transported further downstream to the stock section 22 and stored there. The stock section 22 is a section where the sheets S1 are temporarily stored stacked in their thickness direction. The number of sheets stored in the stock section 22 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, between 5 and 100 sheets. Note that these parts of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 are not essential. For example, if the fibers themselves have the ability to bind to each other, the supply of additives may be omitted, and the additive supply section 171 is also unnecessary. Furthermore, if fibers suitable for deposition in the deposition section 18 can be supplied as raw material, the section from the crushing section 12 to the mixing section 17 may be omitted. In that case, the piping from the raw material supply section 11 may be directly connected to the deposition section 18. Furthermore, the molding section 20 can be appropriately designed depending on how the material deposited by the deposition section 18 is processed. For example, the first cutter 211 and the second cutter 212 can be omitted, leaving the user to perform cutting and other processing.

[0059] Each component of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is electrically connected to the control device 28. The operation of each component is controlled by the control device 28.

[0060] As shown in Figure 2, the control device 28 includes a control unit 281, a storage unit 282, and a communication unit 283.

[0061] The control unit 281 has at least one processor and executes various programs stored in the memory unit 282. For example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) can be used as the processor. The control unit 281 also has various functions, such as controlling the drive of each part of the equipment related to sheet manufacturing and executing programs related to sterilization in the humidification unit 4, as will be described later. Furthermore, as will be described later, the control unit 281 controls the operation of the sterilization mechanism 43, pump 48, motor 53, blower unit 54, ultrasonic vibration element 62, and valves 81 to 86.

[0062] The memory unit 282 stores various programs, such as programs related to sheet manufacturing and programs related to sterilization within the humidification unit 4.

[0063] The communication unit 283 is, for example, composed of an I / O interface and communicates with various parts of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100. The communication unit 283 also has the function of communicating with computers and servers (not shown) via a network, for example.

[0064] The control device 28 may be built into the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100, or it may be provided in an external device such as an external computer. Furthermore, the control unit 281 and the storage unit 282 may, for example, be integrated and configured as a single unit, or the control unit 281 may be built into the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 and the storage unit 282 may be provided in an external device such as an external computer, or the storage unit 282 may be built into the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 and the control unit 281 may be provided in an external device such as an external computer.

[0065] Next, we will explain the humidifying unit 4. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, the humidification unit 4 is an example of a humidification device of the present invention and comprises humidifiers 235 and 236, pipes 411 to 417, a sterilization mechanism 43, a water storage tank 44, a drainage tank 45, a manifold 46, a manifold 47, a pump 48, and a selection unit 49. The first humidification unit corresponds to humidifier 235, and the second humidification unit corresponds to humidifier 236.

[0066] As shown in Figure 3, the humidifier 235, which serves as the first humidification unit, is a mist-type humidifier and includes a first storage unit 61 and an ultrasonic vibration element 62.

[0067] The first storage section 61 is a casing for storing water and has an intake 611, an outlet 612, an intake 613, and an exhaust 614. The intake 611 is located above the side wall of the first storage section 61 and is a port for taking water into the first storage section 61. The outlet 612 is located below the side wall of the first storage section 61 and at a different position from the intake 611, and is a port for discharging water from the first storage section 61. The intake 613 is located on the top plate of the first storage section 61 and is a port for taking in outside air. The exhaust 614 is located on the top plate of the first storage section 61 and at a different position from the intake 613, and is a port for discharging humidified air.

[0068] The ultrasonic vibrating element 62 is installed at the bottom of the first reservoir 61. The ultrasonic vibrating element 62 generates ultrasonic vibrations, forming a water column (not shown) in the first reservoir 61. Along with the formation of this water column, mist is generated in the surrounding area, and this mist, along with the air, is discharged from the exhaust port 614 as humidified air. Subsequently, the humidified air is blown from the humidifying unit 235A onto the second web M8 on the mesh belt 191, located opposite the exhaust port 614, thereby humidifying the second web M8. As shown in Figure 2, the ultrasonic vibrating element 62 is electrically connected to the control device 28, and its operation is controlled.

[0069] As shown in Figure 4, the humidifier 236, which serves as the second humidification unit, is an evaporative humidifier and includes a second storage unit 51, a rotating body 52, a motor 53, and a blower unit 54.

[0070] The second storage section 51 is a casing for storing water and has an intake port 511, an outlet port 512, an air intake port 513, and an exhaust port 514. The intake port 511 is located above the side wall of the second storage section 51 and is a port for taking water into the second storage section 51. The outlet port 512 is located below the side wall of the second storage section 51 and at a different position from the intake port 511 and is a port for discharging water from the second storage section 51. The air intake port 513 is located on the top plate of the second storage section 51 and is a port for taking in outside air. The exhaust port 514 is located on the top plate of the second storage section 51 and at a different position from the air intake port 513 and is a port for discharging humidified air.

[0071] The rotating body 52 has a shaft 521 and a plurality of disks 522 through which the shaft 521 is inserted. Each disk 522 has a through hole in the center and is fixed to the shaft 521 with the shaft 521 inserted through the through hole. The disks 522 are arranged in a line along the longitudinal direction of the shaft 521. The disks 522 are spaced apart from each other.

[0072] The shaft 521 is rotatably supported on the side wall of the second reservoir 51 in a horizontal position. The shaft 521 is positioned so that each disc 522 is partially submerged in the water in the second reservoir 51. As a result of the rotation of the shaft 521, each disc 522 rotates within the second reservoir 51 with a portion submerged in water, allowing the wet portion of each disc 522 to remain exposed above the water. Consequently, water evaporates from the exposed portion of the disc 522, generating humidified air.

[0073] A motor 53, which acts as a rotational drive unit that generates the driving force to rotate the rotating body 52, is connected to one end of the shaft 521 (the left end in Figure 4). As shown in Figure 2, the motor 53 is electrically connected to the control device 28. The control device 28 controls the energization conditions and timing of the motor 53.

[0074] Furthermore, a blower unit 54 is installed inside the second storage unit 51. The blower unit 54 is, for example, composed of a fan, and blows air toward the part of the rotating body 52 that is exposed to the water. This blowing promotes the vaporization of water from the disk 522, and more effectively generates humidified air. The humidified air containing the vaporized water is then discharged outside the second storage unit 51 through the exhaust port 514, passes through humidification piping (not shown), and is released from the humidification units 231-234 and 235A, which are the outlets for the humidified air. This humidifies various parts of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 and suppresses static electricity.

[0075] As shown in Figure 2, the air blower unit 54 is electrically connected to the control device 28. The control device 28 controls the energization conditions and timing of the air blower unit 54.

[0076] As shown in Figures 5 to 8, pipe 411 has one end connected to the outlet 612 and the other end connected to the manifold 46, which will be described later. Pipe 412 has one end connected to the manifold 46 and the other end connected to the manifold 47. Pipe 413 has one end connected to the manifold 47 and the other end connected to the inlet 611.

[0077] The water discharged from the humidifier 235 passes through pipes 411, 412, and 413 in sequence and returns to the humidifier 235. In other words, the humidifier 235, pipes 411, 412, and 413 form a first circulation channel 41 through which the water can circulate.

[0078] Pipe 414 has one end connected to the outlet 512 and the other end connected to the manifold 46. Pipe 415 has one end connected to the manifold 47 and the other end connected to the inlet 511.

[0079] The water discharged from the humidifier 236 passes through pipes 414, 412, and 415 in sequence and returns to the humidifier 236. In other words, the humidifier 236, pipes 414, 412, and 415 constitute a second circulation channel 42 that can circulate water.

[0080] Pipe 412 constitutes a part of the first circulation channel 41 described above, and is also a part of the second circulation channel 42. In other words, the second circulation channel 42 shares a part of the flow path with the first circulation channel 41. Hereinafter, the interior of pipe 412 will also be referred to as the shared portion 400 of the first circulation channel 41 and the second circulation channel 42.

[0081] The sterilization mechanism 43 is installed in the shared section 400 and sterilizes the water flowing through the shared section 400. This allows the sterilized water to be circulated through the first circulation channel 41 and the second circulation channel 42, and sterilized water to be supplied to the humidifier 235 or humidifier 236. Therefore, humidification can be performed using clean water, and the sheet S1 can be kept clean. Furthermore, it is expected that unpleasant odors from the water and clogging of the filter due to slime and mold can be suppressed, and the frequency of maintenance can be reduced.

[0082] The sterilization mechanism 43 is electrically connected to the control device 28, and its operation is controlled. The sterilization method used by the sterilization mechanism 43 is ultraviolet sterilization, but is not limited to this. For example, sterilization by heat, sterilization by chemicals, sterilization by irradiation with radiation, and sterilization using ozone generated by applying high voltage can be used.

[0083] In this specification, "sterilization" is a concept that includes not only killing bacteria, but also killing viruses, archaea, and prokaryotes.

[0084] The manifold 46 has internally branched flow paths. Pipes 411, 412, 414, and pipe 416 (described later) are connected to the manifold 46. The internal flow paths of pipes 411, 412, 414, and 416 merge within the manifold 46.

[0085] The manifold 47 has internally branched flow paths. Pipes 412, 413, 415, and pipe 417 (described later) are connected to the manifold 47. The internal flow paths of pipes 412, 413, 415, and pipe 417 (described later) merge within the manifold 47.

[0086] Pump 48 generates a water flow in the first circulation channel 41 or the second circulation channel 42 and is installed in pipe 412. In other words, pump 48 is installed in the common section 400. Pump 48 is electrically connected to control device 28 and its operation is controlled.

[0087] The mechanism of the pump 48 is not particularly limited. The pump 48 may be configured to deliver fluid in only one direction, or it may be configured to deliver fluid in both forward and reverse directions. Furthermore, the pump 48 may be configured to allow adjustment of the amount of fluid delivered per unit time, or it may be configured to deliver a constant amount of fluid per unit time.

[0088] The water storage tank 44 is a section that temporarily stores water supplied from an external source. The water storage tank 44 is connected to the manifold 46 via a pipe 416. The water stored in the water storage tank 44 is supplied to the humidifiers 235 and 236 via the pipe 416 and the manifold 46 as needed.

[0089] The drain tank 45 is a section that temporarily stores water to be discharged from the humidifier 4 when the water is discharged to the outside. The drain tank 45 is connected to the manifold 47 via a pipe 417. The water stored in the drain tank 45 can be discharged to the outside by user operation as needed.

[0090] Furthermore, a strainer 71 is provided in the pipe 411. That is, a strainer 71 is provided in the first circulation channel 41. The strainer 71 comes into contact with the water flowing down in the first circulation channel 41 and adsorbs and removes scale, debris, etc. contained in the water. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or suppress scale, debris, etc. from causing malfunctions in the valve 81, pump 48, etc.

[0091] Furthermore, a strainer 72 is provided in the pipe 414. That is, a strainer 72 is provided in the second circulation channel 42. The strainer 72 can remove scale, debris, etc. contained in the water flowing down the pipe 414. Therefore, it is possible to prevent or suppress scale, debris, etc. from causing malfunctions in the valve 83, pump 48, etc.

[0092] Furthermore, a strainer 73 is provided in the pipe 416. The strainer 73 can remove limescale, debris, and other contaminants contained in the water flowing down the pipe 416. Therefore, it is possible to remove limescale, debris, and other foreign matter from the water flowing from the water storage tank 44 to the first circulation channel 41 or the second circulation channel 42. Although strainers 72 and 73 are of the same shape, strainer 71 has a larger filtration area than strainers 72 and 73. This is because the humidifier 235 has a larger opening than the humidifier 236, making it easier for debris to enter. By making the filtration area of ​​strainer 71 larger than that of strainers 72 and 73, strainer 71 is less likely to become clogged.

[0093] Next, the selection unit 49 will be explained. The selection unit 49 is the part that performs a mode selection process to select and execute one of the following modes: water supply mode, drainage mode, first mode, and second mode, prior to the raw material supply process, that is, prior to the start of production of the sheet S1 (molded body). The selection unit 49 includes valves 81 (first opening / closing part), 82 (first opening / closing part), 83 (second opening / closing part), 84 (second opening / closing part), 85, and 86 shown in Figures 5 to 8, and a control unit 281 shown in Figure 2.

[0094] Valve 81 is located on pipe 411 and switches the opening and closing of pipe 411. Valve 82 is located on pipe 413 and switches the opening and closing of pipe 413. Valve 83 is located on pipe 414 and switches the opening and closing of pipe 414. Valve 84 is located on pipe 415 and switches the opening and closing of pipe 415. Valve 85 is located on pipe 416 and switches the opening and closing of pipe 416. Valve 86 is located on pipe 417 and switches the opening and closing of pipe 417.

[0095] Valves 81 to 86 are electrically connected to the control device 28, and their operation is controlled. The structure of valves 81 to 86 is not particularly limited, as long as they are controlled by the control device 28.

[0096] The control unit 281 selects and executes one of the following modes from the water supply mode, drainage mode, first mode, and second mode by appropriately reading and executing a program stored in the memory unit 282.

[0097] (Water supply mode) As shown in Figure 5, the water supply mode is a mode in which water is supplied from the water storage tank 44 to the humidifiers 235 and 236. By executing the water supply mode, water is supplied to the humidifiers 235 and 236, and humidification can be performed.

[0098] In water supply mode, the control unit 281 opens valves 82, 84, and 85, closes valves 81, 83, and 86, and operates the pump 48. The sterilization mechanism 43 is not operated. This allows water to be supplied to humidifiers 235 and 236 via pipes 413 and 415.

[0099] In addition, in water supply mode, the system may be configured to supply water to only one of either humidifier 235 or humidifier 236. For example, water level sensors may be installed in both humidifier 235 and humidifier 236 to detect the remaining water level, and the system may determine which humidifier to supply water to based on the detected value of the water level sensors. Alternatively, the system may be configured to supply water to humidifier 235 and humidifier 236 sequentially, rather than supplying water to both simultaneously.

[0100] When supplying water only to the humidifier 235, valves 82 and 85 are opened, valves 81, 83, 84, and 86 are closed, and the pump 48 is activated. This allows water to be supplied only to the humidifier 235 via pipe 413.

[0101] When supplying water only to the humidifier 236, valves 84 and 85 are opened, valves 81, 82, 83, and 86 are closed, and the pump 48 is operated. This allows water to be supplied only to the humidifier 236 via pipe 415.

[0102] The trigger for ending the water supply mode may be the elapsed time, or it may be when the detected value of the remaining amount sensor in the humidifier 235 or humidifier 236 reaches a predetermined value. In addition, the sterilization mechanism 43 may be activated in water supply mode.

[0103] (Drainage mode) As shown in Figure 6, the drainage mode is a mode in which the water in humidifiers 235 and 236 is discharged into the drainage tank 45. By executing the drainage mode, the water in humidifiers 235 and 236 can be drained. For example, when the operation of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is stopped for a long period of time, by performing the drainage mode and then turning off the power, it is possible to prevent or suppress the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms in humidifiers 235 and 236 while the power is off.

[0104] In drainage mode, the control unit 281 opens valves 81, 83, and 86, closes valves 82, 84, and 85, and operates the pump 48. The sterilization mechanism 43 is not operated. This allows the water in humidifiers 235 and 236 to be discharged into the drainage tank 45 via pipes 411 and 414.

[0105] The trigger for ending the drainage mode may be the elapsed time, or it may be when the detected value of the remaining amount sensor in humidifier 235 or humidifier 236 falls below a predetermined value. Alternatively, the trigger for ending the drainage mode may be when the detected value of the remaining amount sensor in drainage tank 45 exceeds a predetermined value. In addition, the sterilization mechanism 43 may be activated in drainage mode.

[0106] In drainage mode, the system may be configured to sequentially drain the water from humidifiers 235 and 236.

[0107] In drainage mode, the water in pipe 416 may also be drained by opening valve 85 with the water storage tank 44 removed.

[0108] (Mode 1) As shown in Figure 7, the first mode is a mode in which water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43 is circulated through the first circulation channel 41. By executing this first mode, water is circulated in the order of the sterilization mechanism 43, the pump 48, and the humidifier 235, and at that time, clean water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43 can be supplied into the humidifier 235.

[0109] In the first mode, the control unit 281 opens valves 81 and 82, closes valves 83 to 86, and activates the sterilization mechanism 43 and pump 48. As a result, the water in the humidifier 235 circulates through the first circulation channel 41, and the sterilization mechanism 43 sterilizes the water during this process.

[0110] The timing at which the control unit 281 operates valves 81 to 86 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that valves 81 and 82 be opened, valves 83 to 86 be closed, the pump 48 be operated, and the sterilization mechanism 43 be operated in that order. This allows the first mode to be executed efficiently. Note that the operating timing of each part is not limited to the above.

[0111] Preferably, the trigger for starting the first mode is, for example, the power of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 being turned ON. This allows the water in the humidifier 235 to be sterilized when the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is started up, that is, prior to the manufacture of the fiber.

[0112] The trigger for starting the first mode is not limited to the above, and may include, for example, the operating time of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 exceeding a predetermined time, or receiving instructions from the user.

[0113] The trigger for ending the first mode is, for example, when the time spent running the first mode exceeds a predetermined time. That is, in the first mode, the control unit 281 stops the operation of the pump 48 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the mode. This allows for sterilization of the water in the humidifier 235 while simplifying the control operation. However, the first mode may also be terminated by other triggers, such as when the amount of liquid delivered by the pump 48 exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0114] The time required to run the first mode is the time it takes for all the water in the first circulation channel 41 to be replaced with sterilized water. For example, since the water in the humidifier 235 makes up the majority of the water in the first circulation channel 41, the time may be set to allow 1.5 to 15 times the volume of water in the humidifier 235 to circulate.

[0115] The duration for executing the first mode can be set appropriately, taking into account the fluid delivery capacity of the pump 48 and the sterilization capacity of the sterilization mechanism 43.

[0116] (Second mode) As shown in Figure 8, the second mode is a mode in which water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43 is circulated through the second circulation channel 42. By executing this second mode, water circulates in the order of the sterilization mechanism 43, the pump 48, and the humidifier 236, and at that time, clean water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43 can be supplied into the humidifier 236.

[0117] In the second mode, the control unit 281 opens valves 83 and 84, closes valves 81, 82, 85, and 86, and activates the sterilization mechanism 43 and pump 48. As a result, the water in the humidifier 236 circulates through the second circulation channel 42, and the sterilization mechanism 43 sterilizes the water during this process.

[0118] The timing at which the control unit 281 operates valves 81 to 86 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that valves 83 and 84 be opened, valves 81, 82, 85, and 86 be closed, the pump 48 be operated, and the sterilization mechanism 43 be operated in that order. This allows the second mode to be executed efficiently. Note that the operating timing of each part is not limited to the above.

[0119] Preferably, the trigger for starting the second mode is, for example, after the power of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is turned ON and the first mode is completed. This allows sterilization to be performed not only on the water in the humidifier 236 but also on the water in the humidifier 235 when the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is started up, that is, prior to the manufacture of the fiber.

[0120] The trigger for starting the second mode is not limited to the above, and may include, for example, the operating time of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 exceeding a predetermined time, or receiving instructions from the user.

[0121] The trigger for ending the second mode is, for example, when the time spent running the second mode exceeds a predetermined time. That is, in the second mode, the control unit 281 stops the operation of the pump 48 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the mode. This allows for sterilization of the water in the humidifier 236 while simplifying the control operation. However, the second mode may also be terminated by other triggers, such as when the amount of liquid delivered by the pump 48 exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0122] The time required to run the second mode is the time it takes for all the water in the second circulation channel 42 to be replaced with sterilized water. For example, since the water in the humidifier 236 makes up the majority of the water in the second circulation channel 42, the time may be set to circulate water that is between 1.5 and 15 times the volume of water in the humidifier 236.

[0123] The duration for running the second mode can be set appropriately, taking into account the fluid delivery capacity of the pump 48 and the sterilization capacity of the sterilization mechanism 43.

[0124] In the second mode, the control unit 281 controls the operation of the motor 53 so that the rotating body 52 of the humidifier 236 rotates in the same way as during humidification. This allows the water in the second storage section 51 of the humidifier 236 to be agitated, and promotes the discharge of water from the second storage section 51. Therefore, the sterilization treatment of the water in the second storage section 51 can be performed more effectively. In this case, since it is sufficient to agitate the water, the rotation speed of the rotating body 52 may be slower than during humidification.

[0125] In the first mode, the control unit 281 operates the air blower 54 in the same way as during humidification. This allows dust and other particles floating in the space inside the humidifier 236 to adhere to the part of the rotating body 52 that is exposed to the water. As the rotating body 52 rotates in this state, the dust and other particles attached to the rotating body 52 can be transferred to the water inside the humidifier 236. Therefore, the dust and other particles can be flushed down into the first circulation channel 41. As a result, the inside of the humidifier 236 can be kept cleaner. In this case, since it is sufficient to flush down the dust and other particles, the air velocity of the air blower 54 may be slower than during humidification.

[0126] The selection unit 49 selectively selects and executes one of the above-described water supply mode, drainage mode, first mode, and second mode. Furthermore, by executing the first mode and the second mode, the water inside the humidifiers 235 and 236 can be kept clean. The selection unit 49 is configured to select and execute one of several modes, including the first mode and the second mode. The first mode and the second mode are never executed simultaneously. This prevents the water in one of the humidifiers 235 and 236 from circulating excessively while the other does not circulate properly, compared to when the first mode and the second mode are executed simultaneously, and allows for efficient and rapid sterilization.

[0127] Furthermore, when the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is powered on, it is not always necessary to perform both the first and second modes. That is, the selection unit 49 determines the start timing of the first or second mode depending on the state of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100. For example, if the water supply mode or drainage mode was selected when the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is powered on (if the power was turned off while the water supply mode or drainage mode was being performed during the previous operation), the first and second modes do not need to be performed. This allows the first or second mode to be started at an appropriate time. If there is no water in the first circulation channel 41 or the second circulation channel 42, there is naturally no need to sterilize, so the first and second modes are not performed.

[0128] Furthermore, if the power to the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is turned OFF while the first mode is running (the same applies to the second mode), it is preferable that the first mode be automatically executed the next time the power to the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is turned ON. In this case, it is preferable to remember the time the first mode was run before the power to the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 was turned OFF, and then, the next time the power to the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 is turned ON, to execute the first mode taking that time into consideration.

[0129] Furthermore, the number of times the first mode (and the second mode as well) was performed, and the total time, may be managed, for example, on a daily basis or on a weekly basis.

[0130] Furthermore, if the number of times the first mode (and the second mode) is performed, or the cumulative time, reaches a predetermined value, information prompting cleaning of the first circulation channel 41, the second circulation channel 42, etc., may be provided. This notification can be made using a display screen (not shown) or an audio transmitter, etc.

[0131] The first mode and the second mode may be executed in this order, or the second mode and the first mode may be executed in this order, triggered by events such as the power of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 being turned ON, the operating time of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 exceeding a predetermined time, or receiving instructions from the user. Depending on when this trigger occurs, one of the first mode and the second mode may be executed, and then, depending on when the next trigger occurs, the other of the first mode and the second mode may be executed.

[0132] As described above, the humidification unit 4, which is an example of a humidifying device, comprises a humidifier 235, which is an example of a first humidification unit; a humidifier 236, which is an example of a second humidification unit; a sterilization mechanism 43 for sterilizing water; a pump 48 for generating water flow; and a control unit 281 that selects and executes one of several modes, including a first mode in which the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43 is circulated between the humidifier 235 and the sterilization mechanism 43 using the pump 48, and the humidifier 236 is not supplied with the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43; and a second mode in which the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43 is circulated between the humidifier 236 and the sterilization mechanism 43 using the pump 48, and the humidifier 235 is not supplied with the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism 43. This allows for efficient and rapid sterilization of the water in the humidifiers 235 and 236.

[0133] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the system includes valves 81 and 82 as first opening / closing parts provided in the first circulation channel 41 that circulates water between a humidifier 235, which is an example of the first humidification unit, and the sterilization mechanism 43, and valves 83 and 84 as second opening / closing parts provided in the second circulation channel 42 that circulates water between a humidifier 236, which is an example of the second humidification unit, and the sterilization mechanism 43. The control unit 281 controls the operation of valves 81, 82, 83, and 84 and the pump 48. This makes it easy and accurate to select and execute the first and second modes.

[0134] The selection unit 49 may also be configured so that the operator can manually switch between the first mode and the second mode. That is, the selection unit 49 may have an operating unit for manually opening and closing valves 81, 82, 83, and 84.

[0135] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in the first and second modes, the control unit 281 stops the operation of the pump 48 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the mode. This allows the first and second modes to be terminated with simple control.

[0136] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the humidifier 235, which serves as the first humidification unit, is an ultrasonic humidifier. This allows for effective humidification of the second web M8. In addition, since ultrasonic humidifiers require particular cleanliness of the water inside, this enhances the advantages of using the first mode.

[0137] As mentioned above, the second humidification unit includes a second storage unit 51 for storing water, a rotating body 52 that rotates within the second storage unit 51 with a portion submerged in water, and a motor 53, which is a rotational drive unit that generates the driving force to rotate the rotating body 52. ​​In the second mode, the control unit 281 controls the operation of the motor 53 to rotate the rotating body 52. ​​This allows the water in the second storage unit 51 to be agitated by the rotation of the rotating body 52, thereby promoting the discharge of water from the second storage unit 51. Therefore, the sterilization treatment of the water in the second storage unit 51 can be performed more effectively.

[0138] The humidifier 236, which serves as the second humidifying unit, has a blower unit 54 that blows air toward the part of the rotating body 52 that is exposed to the water. In the second mode, the control unit 281 activates the blower unit 54. This allows dust and other particles to flow down into the second circulation channel 42. Therefore, the inside of the humidifier 236 can be kept cleaner.

[0139] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in the first mode, water circulates in the order of sterilization mechanism 43, pump 48, and humidifier 235, which is the first humidification unit, and in the second mode, water circulates in the order of sterilization mechanism 43, pump 48, and humidifier 236, which is the second humidification unit. This makes it possible to sterilize the water in humidifiers 235 and 236 more effectively.

[0140] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the humidification unit 4, as a humidification device, comprises a transport path 10 for transporting fiber-containing material (raw material M1 to mixture M7), a deposit unit 18 for depositing the material (mixture M7) transported via the transport path 10 to produce a second web M8 as a deposit, and a molding unit 20 for molding the second web M8 to produce a sheet S1 as a molded body. The humidifier 235, as the first humidification unit, humidifies the second web M8, and the humidifier 236, as the second humidification unit, humidifies the inside of the transport path 10. As a result, while enjoying the effects of the humidification unit 4 described above, clean humidified air can be supplied to the transport path 10 and to the deposit unit 18. Therefore, the quality of the molded body can be further improved.

[0141] Furthermore, as mentioned above, prior to the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100 starting production of the sheet S1 as a molded body, the control unit 281 selects and executes one of the first mode and the second mode. This allows clean, humidified air to be supplied to the conveying path 10 and the stacking section 18 from the start of sheet S1 production. Thus, the quality of the molded body can be further improved.

[0142] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the control unit 281 determines the start timing for the first or second mode according to the state of the fiber manufacturing apparatus 100. This allows the first or second mode to be started at an appropriate time.

[0143] Although the humidifier of the present invention has been described above in the illustrated embodiment, the present invention is not limited to such a humidifier, which can also be called a fiber manufacturing apparatus. Each part constituting the humidifier can be replaced with any structure that can perform a similar function. Furthermore, the humidifier does not have to have a fiber manufacturing function. That is, the present invention may be used in a humidifier that has only a humidifying function, in a humidifier that has a fiber manufacturing function, or in a humidifier that has functions other than fiber manufacturing. In addition to the configuration that realizes the humidifying function, any other components may be added.

[0144] Furthermore, the system may have three or more circulation channels, each of which may have a humidifier. In this case, the i-th circulation channel that circulates the water from the i-th humidifier will have an i-th mode that sterilizes while circulating the water, and this mode will be provided for each humidifier. This allows sterilization to be performed while circulating water in each of the circulation channels.

[0145] Furthermore, a water softening filter may be provided between the strainer 73 and the valve 85 in the pipe 416. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0146] 4...Humidification section, 10...Conveyor path, 11...Raw material supply section, 12...Crushing section, 13...Fibre section, 14...Sorting section, 15...First web generation section, 16...Fine division section, 17...Mixing section, 18...Stacking section, 9...Second web generation section, 20...Forming section, 21...Cutting section, 22...Stock section, 27...Recovery section, 28...Control section, 41...First circulation path, 42...Second circulation path, 43...Sterilization mechanism, 44...Water storage tank, 45...Drainage tank, 46...Manifold, 47...Manifold, 48...Pump, 49...Selection section, 51...First storage section, 52...Rotating body, 53...Motor, 54...Air blowing section, 61... Second storage section, 62... Ultrasonic vibration element, 71... Strainer, 72... Strainer, 73... Strainer, 81... Valve, 82... Valve, 83... Valve, 84... Valve, 85... Valve, 86... Valve, 100... Fiber manufacturing equipment, 121... Coarse crushing blade, 122... Chute, 141... Drum section, 142... Housing section, 151... Mesh belt, 152... Tension roller, 153... Suction section, 161... Propeller, 162... Housing section, 170... Housing section, 171... Additive supply section, 172... Pipe, 173... Blower, 174... Screw feeder -, 181...Drum, 182...Housing, 191...Mesh belt, 192...Tension roller, 193...Suction section, 201...Pressurization section, 202...Heating section, 203...Calendar roller, 204...Heating roller, 211...First cutter, 212...Second cutter, 231...Humidification section, 232...Humidification section, 233...Humidification section, 234...Humidification section, 235A...Humidification section, 235...Humidifier, 236...Humidifier, 241...Tube, 242...Tube, 243...Tube, 244...Tube, 245...Tube, 246...Tube, 261...Blower, 262...Blower, 263...Blower, 281... Control unit, 82...Storage unit, 283...Communication unit, 400...Shared part, 411...Tube, 412...Tube, 413...Tube, 414...Tube, 415...Tube, 416...Tube, 417...Tube, 511...Inlet, 512...Outlet, 513...Intake, 514...Exhaust, 521...Shaft, 522...Disk, 611...Inlet, 612...Outlet, 613...Intake, 614...Exhaust, M1...Raw material, M2...Coarse fragments, M3...Fibrated material, M4-1...First sorted material, M4-2...Second sorted material, M5...First web, M6...Fine fragments, M7...Mixture, M8...Second web, P1...Binding agent, S1...Sheet

Claims

1. The first humidification unit and The second humidification unit, A sterilization mechanism that sterilizes water, A pump that generates water flow, A humidifier comprising a control unit that selects and executes one of a plurality of modes, including a first mode in which water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism is circulated between the first humidification unit and the sterilization mechanism using the pump, and the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism is not sent to the second humidification unit, and a second mode in which water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism is circulated between the second humidification unit and the sterilization mechanism using the pump, and the water sterilized by the sterilization mechanism is not sent to the first humidification unit.

2. A first opening / closing section is provided in the first circulation channel that circulates water between the first humidification section and the sterilization mechanism, The device comprises a second opening / closing section provided in a second circulation channel that circulates water between the second humidification section and the sterilization mechanism, The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the first opening / closing unit, the second opening / closing unit, and the pump.

3. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops the operation of the pump after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the first mode and the second mode.

4. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first humidifying unit is an ultrasonic humidifier.

5. The second humidifying unit includes a second storage unit for storing water, a rotating body that rotates with a portion of it submerged in water within the second storage unit, and a rotational drive unit that generates a driving force to rotate the rotating body. In the second mode, the control unit controls the operation of the rotary drive unit to rotate the rotating body, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The second humidifying unit has a blowing unit that blows air toward the portion of the rotating body that is exposed to water, In the second mode, the control unit operates the air blower unit as described in claim 4.

7. In the first mode, water circulates in the order of the sterilization mechanism, the pump, and the first humidification unit. The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the second mode, water circulates in the order of the sterilization mechanism, the pump, and the second humidification unit.

8. A transport path for transporting materials containing fibers, A deposit section that deposits the material transported via the transport path to generate a deposit, A molding section that forms the aforementioned deposits to produce a molded body, Equipped with, The first humidification unit humidifies the sediment, The humidifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second humidifying unit humidifies the inside of the transport path.

9. Prior to the molding unit starting production of the molded body, the control unit selects and executes one of the first mode and the second mode, as described in claim 8.

10. The humidifier according to claim 8, wherein the control unit determines the start timing of the first mode or the second mode according to the state of the humidifier.

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