Metal ion water generating device and system

Abstract

To realize a metal ion water generating device whereby, when water has infiltrated into a cable connection unit, it is possible to clearly inform a user of the fact.SOLUTION: A metal ion generating device (1) includes: a metal ion water generation unit (30), a case (11), an USB insertion port (13a) which is a cable connection unit to which a detachable cable is connected, a detection unit (41) that detects the infiltration of water into the USB insertion port (13a), and a notification unit that provides notification when the infiltration of water is detected by the detection unit (41).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a metal ion water generating device that generates metal ion water and a system including the same. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a metal ion water generator such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 has been known. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2006-239568 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, there is a risk of water entering the connector.

[0005] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a metal ion water generating device that can prevent water from entering a cable connection portion where a cable is connected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, a metal ion water generating device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a metal ion water generating unit that generates metal ion water, a case that houses the metal ion water generating unit, a pipe connection unit to which a pipe through which water flows is connected, and a waterproof structure that prevents water from entering the cable connection unit; The cable connection portion is a socket located inside the socket opening, The waterproof structure includes the pipe connection portion and the Insertion opening a wall portion formed between the Insertion opening and an enclosure portion surrounding the wall portion. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to a metal ion water generating device of one embodiment of the present invention, for example, a user who receives an alert can take action to prevent water from entering the cable connection portion. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine, seen from the front, showing a state in which a metal ion water generating device according to a first embodiment is attached to a water supply path of the washing machine. [Diagram 2] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a metal ion water generating device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a metal ion water generating section is detached from a controller unit in the metal ion water generating device according to embodiment 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of a vertical section of a metal ion water generating device according to embodiment 1, taken along a section passing near the center of the front. [Diagram 5] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a waterproof structure that prevents water from entering a USB socket provided in the metal ion water generation device according to embodiment 1. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a perspective view showing another example of a waterproof structure for preventing water from entering the USB socket provided in the metal ion water generating device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a metal ion water generating device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 8] 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for detecting intrusion of water into a USB outlet in the metal ion water generating device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9] 11 is a perspective view of a metal ion water generating device according to a second embodiment attached to a water supply path of a washing machine, as viewed from the front side of the washing machine. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a system including a metal ion water generating device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing device linked operation and operation adjustment between a metal ion water generating device and a washing machine which can be implemented in a system according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] [First embodiment] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below. In this embodiment, a metal ion water generating device that is attached to a water supply path of a home washing machine will be described. In addition, silver ions will be exemplified as antibacterial metal ions.

[0010] (1. Installation example of metal ion water generator 1) Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a metal ion water generator 1 according to the present embodiment attached to the water supply path of a washing machine 2, viewed from the front side of the washing machine 2. As shown in Fig. 1, the metal ion water generator 1 is attached to the water supply path of the washing machine 2. In detail, the inlet side of the metal ion water generator 1 is connected to a faucet 5 by a commercially available connecting pipe 4a. The outlet side of the metal ion water generator 1 is connected to a water supply port 2a of the washing machine 2 by a commercially available connecting pipe 4b.

[0011] The metal ion water generating device 1 is connected to a dedicated AC adapter 7 via a detachable cable 6, and AC (alternating current) power is converted to DC (direct current) and supplied from the AC adapter 7. The cable 6 has a USB terminal section 6a (see Figs. 5 and 6) at one end, and the USB terminal section 6a is inserted through an insertion opening 39a provided on the bottom surface of the metal ion water generating device 1 and is connected to a USB connection part 13 located inside the insertion opening 39a. The USB connection part 13 has a USB socket (cable connection section) 13a into which the USB terminal section 6a is inserted, and the USB socket 13a has a waterproof structure. The cable 6 also has a USB terminal section (not shown) at the other end, and the USB terminal section at the other end is connected to a USB connection part (not shown) provided on the AC adapter 7. The cable 6 supplies power and is detachable.

[0012] (2. Configuration of Metal Ion Water Generator 1) Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the exterior of the metal ion water generator 1. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing the metal ion water generator 1 with the metal ion water generator 30 removed from the device body 10. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the vertical cross section of the metal ion water generator 1, taken along a cross section passing near the center of the front.

[0013] 2 to 4, the metal ion water generation device 1 includes a metal ion water generation section 30 and an apparatus main body 10. The metal ion water generation section 30 is provided on the apparatus main body 10 so as to be detachable.

[0014] The metal ion water generator 30 has a water flow pipe 31 that is provided so as to penetrate in the vertical direction and through which water flows, and an electrode pair 34 for generating metal ions is disposed in the water flow pipe 31. The metal ion water generator 30 imparts metal ions to the water flowing inside the water flow pipe 31, generating metal ion water in which the metal ions have been dissolved.

[0015] An inlet pipe connection part 32 to which the above-mentioned connection pipe 4a is connected is provided at the upper end part of the water flow pipe 31. An upper flange part 32a for engaging a claw (not shown) of a fixing lever of the connection pipe 4a connected to the inlet pipe connection part 32 is provided below the inlet pipe connection part 32 of the water flow pipe 31. The claw of the fixing lever is engaged with the upper flange part 32a, whereby the connection pipe 4a and the inlet pipe connection part 32 are firmly fixed. The upper flange part 32a is formed larger than an opening 11b of the case 11, which will be described later. The claw of the fixing lever of the connection pipe 4a is inserted through the notch 11c.

[0016] The lower end of the water flow pipe 31 is provided with an outlet-side pipe connection part (pipe connection part) 33 to which the above-mentioned connection pipe (pipe) 4b is connected. A lower flange part 33a is provided above the outlet-side pipe connection part 33 in the water flow pipe 31 for engaging a claw (not shown) of a fixing lever of the connection pipe 4b connected to the outlet-side pipe connection part 33. The claw of the fixing lever is engaged with the lower flange part 33a, thereby firmly fixing the connection pipe 4b to the outlet-side pipe connection part 33. The lower flange part 33a is formed to be slightly larger than the upper flange part 32a, and a fitting part 33b is cut out on the outer periphery to fit the claw of the fixing lever of the connection pipe 4b.

[0017] A bottom lid 39 is provided above the lower flange 33a of the water pipe 31 to close an open bottom surface 11a (described later) of the case 11 when the case 11 is attached to the case 11. The bottom lid 39 has the same outer shape as the inner shape of the bottom surface 11a of the case 11. The bottom lid 39 is formed with an insertion opening (opening) 39a for exposing the USB socket 13a of the USB connection part 13 mounted on the control board 12.

[0018] The electrode pair 34 dissolves silver ions, which are metal ions, into the water flowing through the flow path R of the water pipe 31. In this embodiment, the anode side of the electrode pair 34 is a silver plate. Inside the water pipe 31 and above the electrode pair 34, a water volume detection unit 35 is provided that detects the amount of water flowing through the flow path R. The water volume detection unit 35 has a float 35a that moves up and down depending on the amount of water flowing through the flow path R, and when the amount of water reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the float 35a moves downward. When the downward movement of the float 35a is detected, current is started to be applied to the electrode pair 34. The time for which current is applied to the electrode pair 34 is controlled by a control unit 40 (see FIG. 7), which will be described later and which controls the operation of the metal ion water production unit 30.

[0019] The electrode pair 34 is electrically connected to an electrode substrate 36 that supplies electricity to the electrode pair 34. The electrode substrate 36 is disposed outside the water pipe 31, i.e., outside the flow path R. The electrode substrate 36 is disposed in a closeable installation chamber 37 formed outside the water pipe 31, and is sealed with urethane (not shown) for waterproofing. A connection cable 38 extending from the electrode substrate 36 is drawn out from the installation chamber 37 (see FIG. 3), and a connector 38a is provided at the tip of the connection cable 38. This connector 38a is connected to a connector 16a (see FIG. 4) of a connection line extending from the control substrate 12.

[0020] The device main body 10 includes a control board 12 and a case 11. The control unit 40 is mounted on the control board 12. The case 11 is an exterior component that determines the appearance of the metal ion water generation device 1, and houses the metal ion water generation unit 30. Here, the case 11 houses and supports the control board 12 and the metal ion water generation unit 30.

[0021] Here, the bottom surface 11a of the case 11 is open, and the metal ion water generator 30 is attached and detached from the bottom surface 11a. The control board 12 is disposed biased toward one side of the case 11, which is the front side of the device. The control board 12 is disposed inside the case 11 with a waterproof structure so as not to come into contact with water that has infiltrated into the inside of the case 11 (infiltrating water).

[0022] In addition to the control unit 40, the control board 12 is equipped with an LED element 14, the USB connection part 13, and the like. The LED element 14 is arranged with its optical axis facing the peripheral wall 11e of the case 11 at the front of the device. The portion where the light from the LED element 14 can be seen through the case 11 serves as a display unit 25. The display unit 25 displays (notifies) information when the LED element 14 is lit. In addition, a design 26 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 11e of the case 11 on which the display unit 25 is provided, indicating that this surface is the front of the device (see FIG. 2).

[0023] The USB connection part 13 is disposed with the USB socket 13a facing the open bottom surface 11a. The USB socket 13a is located inside the socket opening 39a formed in the bottom cover portion 39 described above.

[0024] An opening 11b is formed in the upper surface of the case 11, through which the inlet pipe connecting part 32 of the metal ion water generator 30 protrudes. A notch 11c is formed in the upper part of the peripheral wall 11e of the case 11, through which the claw of the fixing lever of the connecting pipe 4a is inserted into the case 11.

[0025] (3.Waterproof structure that prevents water from entering the USB port 13a) As shown in FIG. 1, the metal ion water generating device 1 is preferably installed vertically with the running water pipe 31 facing up and down. The USB plug 13a is provided so as to be on the lower side when installed vertically. However, depending on the installation location, the device may be installed horizontally with the running water pipe 31 facing left and right on the top surface of the washing machine 2. Even in this case, by arranging the plug opening 39a so as to be above the outlet side pipe connecting portion 33, it is possible to prevent water leaking from the connection portion between the outlet side pipe connecting portion 33 and the connecting pipe 4b from entering the USB plug 13a. However, if the plug opening 39a is arranged so as to be below the outlet side pipe connecting portion 33, there is a possibility that the leaked water will enter the USB plug 13a even if the USB plug 13a has a waterproof structure.

[0026] In addition, when the water flow pipe 31 is installed sideways with the water flow pipe 31 facing left and right, the bottom surface on which the USB port 13a is located faces sideways. Therefore, water splashed toward the metal ion water production device 1 is likely to splash on the device, and may get into the USB port 13a.

[0027] Therefore, in the metal ion water generation device 1, a waterproof structure for preventing water from entering the USB socket 13a (a waterproof structure for preventing water from entering the plug opening 39a) is provided on the underside of the metal ion water generation device 1, in addition to the waterproof structure for the USB socket 13a. A waterproof structure 50 for preventing water from entering the plug opening 39a, which is provided in addition to the waterproof structure for the USB socket 13a, will be described with reference to Figs. 5 and 6.

[0028] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of a waterproof structure 50 that prevents water from entering the USB socket 13a provided in the metal ion water generating device 1. As shown in Fig. 5, a waterproof wall (wall portion) 50A is provided as the waterproof structure 50 around the plug opening 39a in the bottom cover portion 39. The waterproof wall 50A is formed between the outlet side pipe connecting portion (pipe connecting portion) 33 and the USB socket 13a. In other words, the waterproof wall 50A is formed between the outlet side pipe connecting portion (pipe connecting portion) 33 and the plug opening 39a.

[0029] With this configuration, even if water leaks from the connection between the outflow-side pipe connecting part 33 and the connecting pipe 4b and travels along the bottom cover part 39 toward the USB receptacle 13a (plug-in opening 39a) located below, the water flow is redirected by the waterproof wall 50A, preventing the water from entering the USB receptacle 13a (plug-in opening 39a). As a result, even if the plug-in opening 39a is oriented lower than the outflow-side pipe connecting part 33, water leaking from the connection between the outflow-side pipe connecting part 33 and the connecting pipe 4b can be prevented from entering the USB receptacle 13a.

[0030] In the example of Fig. 5, a waterproof wall 50A is illustrated as a single wall extending in one direction between the outlet pipe connection part 33 and the plug opening 39a. However, the waterproof wall 50A is not limited to the example of Fig. 5, and may be formed, for example, in a triangular roof shape with the highest point between the outlet pipe connection part 33 and the plug opening 39a. Alternatively, the waterproof wall 50A may be provided so as to completely surround the periphery of the plug opening 39a. However, the waterproof wall 50A as a single wall extending in one direction shown in Fig. 5 has the advantage that it can be molded integrally with the resin molded body of the metal ion water generating part 30 including the bottom cover part 39.

[0031] Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing another example of a waterproof structure 50 that prevents water from entering the USB socket 13a provided in the metal ion water generating device 1. As shown in Fig. 6, a surrounding portion 50B is provided to surround the USB socket 13a (plug-in opening 39a). In this embodiment, the surrounding portion 50B is formed by extending the lower end of the peripheral wall 11e that surrounds the lower surface 11a of the case 11 beyond the bottom cover portion 39, and the surrounding portion 50B corresponds to an extension portion. The surrounding portion 50B may be extended so as to completely cover the USB terminal portion 6a of the cable 6.

[0032] With this configuration, even if water splashes toward the metal ion water generation device 1, it is blocked by the surrounding portion 50B and the water is prevented from entering the USB port 13a (plug-in opening 39a). This makes it possible to prevent water splashing toward the metal ion water generation device 1 from entering the USB port 13a even when the device is placed sideways. Note that both the waterproof wall 50A and the surrounding portion 50B may be provided as the waterproof structure 50. That is, a surrounding portion 50B may be provided so as to surround the USB port 13a (plug-in opening 39a) and the waterproof wall 50A.

[0033] (4. Water ingress detection into USB port 13a) Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the metal ion water generator 1. As shown in Fig. 7, the metal ion water generator 1 includes a control unit 40, a storage unit 47, a USB connection part 13, an LED element 14, an electrode pair 34, a detection unit 41, a notification unit 42, an LED drive unit 43, and the like.

[0034] The control unit 40 controls the operation of the metal ion water generation unit 30. The memory unit 47 stores various information and programs necessary for the operation of the metal ion water generation unit 30. The detection unit 41 detects the intrusion of water into the USB port 13a. The notification unit 42 issues an alert when the detection unit 41 detects the intrusion of water. The notification unit 42 notifies the user that water has intruded into the USB port 13a. The notification unit 42 is constructed as a functional unit of the control unit 40.

[0035] The notification unit 42 notifies the user using the LED element 14, which corresponds to the display unit 25. The notification unit 42 and the display unit 25 constitute an alarm unit that issues an alarm when the detection unit 41 detects the intrusion of water. The alarm unit includes the notification unit 42 and / or the display unit 25. The display unit 25 is a transmission unit for transmitting information provided by the metal ion water generating device 1. The LED driving unit 43 drives the LED element 14. The detection unit 41, the notification unit 42 and the LED driving unit 43 are mounted on the control board 12.

[0036] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining a method for detecting the intrusion of water into the USB receptacle 13a. When water intrudes into the USB receptacle 13a, as shown in Fig. 8, in the USB terminal portion 6a of the cable 6 inserted into the USB receptacle 13a, a short circuit occurs between the terminal 45 and the guide metal 46, causing a current to flow and a change in resistance value. Such a change in resistance value is detected by the detection unit 41 via the terminal portion of the USB connection part 13.

[0037] When the detection unit 41 detects a change in the resistance value, it transmits a signal to the control unit 40 notifying the control unit 40 that a change in the resistance value has been detected. Upon receiving the signal from the detection unit 41, the notification unit 42 in the control unit 40 lights up the LED element 14 in a predetermined lighting state via the LED drive unit 43 to notify the user that water has entered the USB socket 13a. For example, the LED element 14 is turned on in a blinking light such as red, or the lighting color is changed from the normal color to a color such as red that calls attention.

[0038] With this configuration, if water enters USB receptacle 13a, the user can clearly and obviously know at a glance that water has entered USB receptacle 13a by looking at the lit state of LED element 14 in display unit 25.

[0039] [Embodiment 2] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. For the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0040] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the metal ion water generator 1A according to the present embodiment attached to the water supply path of a washing machine 2A, as viewed from the front side of the washing machine 2A. As shown in Fig. 9, the metal ion water generator 1A is attached to the water supply path of the washing machine 2A, similar to the metal ion water generator 1 according to embodiment 1.

[0041] The washing machine 2A has a built-in USB connection part 106 (see FIG. 10) and an AC adapter (not shown). Therefore, the metal ion water production device 1A is connected to the washing machine 2A via a cable 6. Power is supplied to the metal ion water production device 1A via the cable 6 from the AC adapter built into the washing machine 2A. Also, various information (signals) are exchanged between the metal ion water production device 1A and the washing machine 2A via the cable 6.

[0042] Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a system 100 including a metal ion water generation device 1A. As shown in Fig. 10, the system 100 includes at least the metal ion water generation device 1A and a washing machine 2A as an external device. In the example of Fig. 10, the system 100 includes the metal ion water generation device 1A, the washing machine 2A, and a mobile terminal 200 linked to the washing machine 2A.

[0043] The metal ion water generating device 1A includes a control unit 40A and a notification unit 42A instead of the control unit 40 and the notification unit 42. In addition, the USB connection part 13 has a function as a communication unit, and enables communication with a washing machine 2A, which is an external device.

[0044] The washing machine 2A includes a control unit 101, a memory unit 102, a washing unit 103, a communication unit 104, an input display unit 105, and a USB connection part 106. The control unit 101 controls the operation of the washing machine 2A. The memory unit 102 stores various information and programs necessary for the operation of the washing machine 2A. The washing unit 103 has various functions such as washing, rinsing, and tub cleaning, and performs these operations appropriately under the control of the control unit 101.

[0045] The communication unit 104 enables communication with an external device. The communication unit 104 is connected to a relay station of a wireless local area network (LAN) provided in the user's home where the washing machine 2A is installed. The relay station is a communication device such as a WiFi (registered trademark) router or a WiFi (registered trademark) access point. Note that, although FIG. 10 illustrates a communication network 300 including the Internet, a telephone line network, a mobile communication network, a CATV (CAble TeleVision) communication network, a satellite communication network, etc. may also be used.

[0046] The input display unit 105 is an operation unit including various switches and a display panel provided on the washing machine 2A. The input display unit 105 may be a touch panel in which input and display are integrated. The other end of the cable 6 connected to the metal ion water production device 1A is connected to the USB connection part 106. The cable 6 also has a USB terminal part (not shown) at the other end, and the USB terminal part at the other end is connected to a USB connection part (not shown) provided on the AC adapter 7 or the USB connection part 106 provided on the washing machine 2A.

[0047] Mobile terminal 200 is a communication terminal device such as a smartphone or tablet of a user of washing machine 2A, and an app (application) for operating washing machine 2A is installed on it. Mobile terminal 200 includes control unit 201, storage unit 202, communication unit 203, input display unit 204, etc. Control unit 201 controls the operation of mobile terminal 200. Storage unit 202 stores various information and programs necessary for the operation of mobile terminal 200.

[0048] Communication unit 203 enables communication with an external device. Communication unit 203 connects mobile terminal 200 to communication network 300, and connects to washing machine 2A via a relay station. Mobile terminal 200 and the Internet are connected using 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution), a home or public WiFi (registered trademark) access point, or the like.

[0049] A server 301 of a manufacturer of the washing machine 2A or the like is connected to the communication network 300, and the washing machine 2A and the mobile terminal 200 are linked by the server 301.

[0050] In the metal ion water generation device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the notification unit includes a notification unit 42 and a display unit, and uses an LED element 14 corresponding to the display unit 25 to notify the user of the intrusion of water into the USB port 13a (see FIG. 7). In contrast, in the metal ion water generation device 1A according to the present embodiment, the notification unit includes a notification unit 42A and a USB connection part (communication unit) 13, and communicates with the washing machine 2A, which is a lower device, to notify the user that water has intruded into the USB port 13a.

[0051] Specifically, when the detection unit 41 detects a change in the resistance value, it transmits a signal to the control unit 40A notifying the control unit 40A that a change in the resistance value has been detected. The notification unit 42A in the control unit 40A receives the signal from the detection unit 41, and transmits a signal indicating that the intrusion of water into the USB socket 13a has been detected to the washing machine 2A using the USB connection part 13. The washing machine 2A receives the signal from the metal ion water production device 1A via the USB connection part 106.

[0052] The control unit 101 of the washing machine 2A uses the input display unit 105 of the washing machine 2A to notify the user that water has entered the USB socket 13a of the metal ion water generating device. The notification can be performed, for example, by displaying a message to that effect. If the washing machine 2A has an audio output unit, the notification may be made using the audio output unit of the washing machine 2A. The input display unit 105 and the audio output unit are transmission units for transmitting information provided in the washing machine 2A.

[0053] With this configuration, if water has entered the USB receptacle 13a, the user can know that water has entered the USB receptacle 13a by looking at the display on the input display unit 105 of the washing machine 2A, which is larger and easier to see than the display unit 25 of the metal ion water generating device 1A. Furthermore, when a notification is given by the lighting state of the LED element 14 displayed on the display unit 25 of the metal ion water generating device 1A, it is necessary for the user to recognize the relationship between the lighting state and the notification content. In contrast, with the above configuration, the user can clearly know that water has entered the USB receptacle 13a even if he or she is not aware of the relationship.

[0054] 10, in a configuration including a mobile terminal 200 linked to a washing machine 2A, the mobile terminal 200 linked to the washing machine 2A may be used. That is, the control unit 101 of the washing machine 2A receives a signal from the metal ion water production device 1A notifying that intrusion of water into the USB socket 13a has been detected, and transmits information indicating that intrusion of water into the USB socket 13a has occurred to the mobile terminal 200 using the communication unit 104.

[0055] Control unit 201 of mobile terminal 200 receives the information from washing machine 2A via communication unit 203, and at a predetermined timing uses input display unit 204 to notify the user that water has entered USB port 13a of the metal ion water generating device. The timing of the notification is, for example, when an installed app for operating washing machine 2A is started and the app screen is displayed.

[0056] With this configuration, if water enters USB port 13a, the user can know that water has entered USB port 13a by starting an app for operating washing machine 2A from mobile terminal 200, even if the user is in a location far from washing machine 2A.

[0057] Furthermore, by connecting the metal ion water generating device 1A to the washing machine 2A and notifying information from the metal ion water generating device 1A using a transmission unit (input display unit 105 or audio output unit) of the washing machine 2A or a mobile terminal 200, more information can be notified in a more understandable manner.

[0058] Therefore, in the metal ion water generation apparatus 1A, the notification unit 42A transmits to the washing machine 2A predetermined information related to the metal ion water generation apparatus 1A other than the information about the intrusion of water into the USB port 13a. The predetermined information includes, for example, information about the replacement timing of the metal ion water generation unit 30, information about the replacement procedure of the metal ion water generation unit 30, information about the automatic water draining operation inside the connection pipe 4b to which the metal ion water generation apparatus 1A is connected, and the like.

[0059] Third Embodiment Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. For the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0060] In this embodiment, the following describes device linked operation in system 100, which operates metal ion water generation device 1 according to the operation mode of washing machine 2A, and operation adjustment, which adjusts the operation of metal ion water generation device 1A from washing machine 2A or mobile terminal 200.

[0061] Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the device linked operation and operation adjustment of the metal ion water generating device 1 that can be performed in the system 100. As shown in Fig. 11, the washing machine 2A has, as executable operation modes, a fragrance plus operation, a tub cleaning operation, a quantity-dependent operation, a user-set operation, an age- and sex-dependent operation, a season-dependent operation, a silver ion imparting process operation, and the like.

[0062] "Scent plus operation" is a mode that performs a rinse course that enhances the effect of fabric softener (appliance-linked operation). When scent plus operation is set, control unit 101 of washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to metal ion water generation device 1A to reduce the amount of silver ions from normal or to stop the generation of silver ions. Upon receiving the instruction signal, control unit 40 of metal ion water generation device 1A adjusts the amount of silver ions generated based on the instruction signal. The amount of silver ions generated is adjusted by controlling the time that current is passed through electrode pair 34 (see FIG. 4). The longer the current is passed through, the greater the amount of silver ions generated (appliance-linked operation).

[0063] The amount of silver ions is set by the control unit 101 of the washing machine 2A, which displays on the input display unit 105 that the amount of silver ions can be adjusted, and prompts the user to set it, and the user sets "reduce" or "stop" using the input display unit 105. If the washing machine 2A has a voice output unit, the voice output unit may be used to prompt the user to set it (appliance linked operation).

[0064] The "tub cleaning operation" is a mode for cleaning the washing tub itself, not the laundry. When the tub cleaning operation is set, the control unit 101 of the washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generation device 1A to set the amount of silver ions to normal or to more than normal. In this case, too, the input display unit 105 or the like is used to prompt the user to set the amount of silver ions that can be adjusted. By receiving the instruction signal, the control unit 40 of the metal ion water generation device 1A adjusts the amount of silver ions to be generated based on the instruction signal (apparatus linked operation).

[0065] The "amount-dependent operation" is a mode in which the amount of silver ions is increased according to the amount of laundry. When the amount of laundry is greater than normal, the washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generating device 1A to increase the amount of silver ions to a level greater than normal. The amount of laundry may be automatically detected using a sensor or the like, or may be input by the user (apparatus-linked operation).

[0066] The "age and gender dependent operation" is a mode in which the amount of silver ions is increased according to the age and gender of the user (the user who wore the laundry). In the case of a relatively older user or a male user, the washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generating device 1A to increase the amount of silver ions more than usual. The age and gender may be information registered in the app, or may be input by the user (device linked operation).

[0067] "Season-dependent operation" is a mode in which the amount of silver ions is increased more than usual in the summer when people tend to sweat. When it is summer, the washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generating device 1A to increase the amount of silver ions more than usual. The season may be determined by an application acquiring information indicating the season from the server 301 or another server connected to the communication network 300 and providing the information to the washing machine 2A (appliance-linked operation).

[0068] The "user-set operation" is a mode in which the amount of silver ions is increased or decreased from the normal amount according to the user's setting. The washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generating device 1A so that the amount of silver ions is increased or decreased according to the user's setting. The setting of the increase or decrease of the amount of silver ions is performed using the input / display unit 105 of the washing machine 2A, or from the screen of an app using the mobile terminal 200 (operation adjustment).

[0069] The "silver ion imparting process operation" is a mode in which rinsing that imparts silver ions is performed after the final rinse. For example, when the number of rinses is "2", rinsing that imparts silver ions is performed after two rinses. When the silver ion imparting process operation is set, the control unit 101 of the washing machine 2A transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generating device 1A to set the amount of silver ions to normal or to more than normal. In this case, too, the input display unit 105 or the like is used to prompt the user that the amount of silver ions can be adjusted, and the user is allowed to set it (apparatus linked operation).

[0070] In addition, there are cases where a detergent whose compatibility with silver ions is unknown is registered in the detergent registration function of the app. In such a case, the control unit 101 of the washing machine 2A instructs the metal ion water generating device 1A to "stop" generating silver ions (apparatus linked operation).

[0071] 〔summary〕 The metal ion water generating device 1 according to aspect 1 of the present invention comprises a metal ion water generating unit that generates metal ion water, a case that houses the metal ion water generating unit, a cable connection unit to which a detachable cable that at least supplies power to the metal ion water generating unit is connected, a detection unit that detects water intrusion into the cable connection unit, and an alarm unit that issues an alarm when water intrusion is detected by the detection unit.

[0072] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to a second aspect of the present invention may be configured in such a way that in the first aspect, the notification unit includes a display unit that performs a display.

[0073] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to aspect 3 of the present invention may be configured in the above aspect 1 or 2 such that a waterproof structure is provided to prevent water from entering the cable connection portion.

[0074] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to aspect 4 of the present invention is the same as in aspect 3 above, except that a pipe connection portion to which a pipe is connected is provided, and the waterproof structure can also be configured to include a wall portion formed between the pipe connection portion and the cable connection portion.

[0075] A metal ion water generating device 1 according to a fifth aspect of the present invention may be configured in the above-mentioned fourth aspect such that the waterproof structure includes an enclosure portion that surrounds the cable connection portion and the wall portion.

[0076] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to a sixth aspect of the present invention may be configured in any one of the first to fifth aspects so that the cable connection part is provided on the lower side.

[0077] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is any one of the first to sixth aspects, and the notification unit may include a communication unit for communicating with an external device.

[0078] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to an eighth aspect of the present invention may be configured in the seventh aspect above, such that the external device includes a washing machine.

[0079] A system according to aspect 9 of the present invention comprises a metal ion water generating device according to aspect 7 or aspect 8 above, and an external device that communicates with the metal ion water generating device, and the external device receives specified information from the metal ion water generating device and notifies a user.

[0080] System 1 according to aspect 10 of the present invention may be configured in aspect 9 above, such that the external device includes a washing machine to which metal ion water generated in a metal ion water generating unit is supplied, and the washing machine transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generating device according to an operation mode, and the metal ion water generating device operates in response to the instruction signal from the external device.

[0081] The metal ion water generating device 1 of aspect 11 of the present invention comprises a metal ion water generating unit that generates metal ion water, a case that houses the metal ion water generating unit, a cable connection unit to which a detachable cable that at least supplies power to the metal ion water generating unit is connected, and a waterproof structure that prevents water from entering the cable connection unit.

[0082] Furthermore, the metal ion water generating device and system according to one embodiment of the present invention can also be expressed as follows.

[0083] The metal ion water generating device 1 of aspect I of the present invention comprises a metal ion water generating unit that generates metal ion water, a control unit that controls the operation of the metal ion water generating unit, a case that houses and supports the metal ion water generating unit and the control unit, a detachable cable that at least supplies power to the metal ion water generating unit and the control unit, a cable connection unit to which the cable is connected, a detection unit that detects water intrusion into the cable connection unit, and a notification unit that, when water intrusion is detected by the detection unit, uses a transmission unit to notify a user that water has intruded into the cable connection unit.

[0084] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to aspect II of the present invention may be configured in the above aspect I so as to include a display unit, the display unit being the transmission unit, and the notification unit using the display unit to give notification.

[0085] The metal ion water generating device 1 of aspect III of the present invention, in aspect I or aspect II above, can also be configured to include a communication unit for communicating with an external device, and the notification unit can be configured to communicate with the external device using the communication unit and transmit information indicating that water has entered the cable connection portion to the external device.

[0086] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to Aspect IV of the present invention is in Aspect III above, wherein the external device is a washing machine to which the metal ion water generated in the metal ion water generating section is supplied.

[0087] The metal ion water generating device 1 of aspect V of the present invention can also be configured in the above-mentioned aspect I, aspect II, aspect III or aspect IV such that the cable connection portion is provided inside an opening formed on the underside of the metal ion water generating device, and a waterproof structure is provided on the underside of the metal ion water generating device to prevent water from entering the opening.

[0088] The metal ion water generating device 1 of aspect VI of the present invention is, in the above-mentioned aspect V, a pipe connection portion to which a pipe is connected is provided on the underside of the metal ion water generating device, and the waterproof structure can also be configured to include a wall portion formed between the pipe connection portion and the opening.

[0089] The metal ion water generating device 1 of aspect VII of the present invention can also be configured in the above aspect VI such that the bottom of the case is open, the metal ion water generating unit is detachable from the bottom of the case and has a bottom cover that covers the bottom of the case when attached to the case, and the opening, pipe connection portion and wall portion are formed in the bottom cover.

[0090] The metal ion water generating device 1 according to aspect VIII of the present invention is, in aspect V, aspect VI or aspect VII above, such that the bottom of the case is open, the metal ion water generating unit has a bottom cover portion that is detachable from the bottom of the case and covers the bottom of the case when attached to the case, and an extension portion is provided at the lower end of the peripheral wall surrounding the bottom of the case and extends beyond the bottom cover portion, and the waterproof structure can be configured to include the extension portion.

[0091] System 100 according to aspect IX of the present invention is a system comprising the metal ion water generating device described in aspect III above and an external device, wherein the external device receives information from the metal ion water generating device indicating that water has entered the cable connection portion, and notifies a user that water has entered the cable connection portion using a transmission unit provided in the external device or a communication terminal capable of communicating with the external device.

[0092] System 100 according to aspect X of the present invention can also be configured in aspect IX above such that the notification unit uses the communication unit to transmit specified information regarding the metal ion water generating device to the external device, and the external device receives the specified information from the metal ion water generating device and notifies the user of the specified information using a transmission unit provided in the external device or a communication terminal capable of communicating with the external device.

[0093] System 100 according to aspect XI of the present invention may be configured in aspect IX or aspect X above, such that the external device is a washing machine to which metal ion water generated in a metal ion water generation unit is supplied, the washing machine transmits an instruction signal to the metal ion water generation device according to an operation mode, and the metal ion water generation device receives an instruction signal from the external device and controls the operation of the metal ion water generation unit according to the instruction signal received by the control unit.

[0094] The control block of the metal ion water generating device 1 may be realized by a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like, or may be realized by software.

[0095] In the latter case, the metal ion water generating device 1 includes a computer that executes instructions of a program, which is software that realizes each function. This computer includes, for example, at least one processor (control device) and at least one computer-readable recording medium that stores the program. The object of the present invention is achieved by having the processor read the program from the recording medium and execute it in the computer. The processor can be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The recording medium can be a "non-transient tangible medium," such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), tape, disk, card, semiconductor memory, programmable logic circuit, or the like. The device may further include a RAM (Random Access Memory) that expands the program. The program may be supplied to the computer via any transmission medium (such as a communication network or broadcast waves) that can transmit the program. Note that one aspect of the present invention can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the program is embodied by electronic transmission.

[0096] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. The technical scope of the present invention also includes embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in the different embodiments. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in the respective embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0097] 1. 1A Metal Ion Water Generator 2, 2A washing machine (external device) 4b Connecting pipe (pipe) 105, 204 Input display unit 6 Cable 6a USB terminal 10. Device body 11 Cases 11a Bottom side 11e Surrounding wall 12 Control Board 13, 106 USB connection parts (notification unit, communication unit) 13a USB port (cable connection part) 14 LED elements 30 Metal ion water generation unit 25 Display unit (notification unit, transmission unit) 33 Outlet pipe connection (pipe connection) 34 Electrode Pairs 39 Bottom cover part 39a Insertion opening (opening) 40, 40A, 101, 201 Control unit 41 Detection unit 42, 42A Notification section (alarm section) 47, 102, 202 storage section 50 waterproof structure 50A Waterproof wall 50B Enclosed section 100 Systems 104, 203 Communications Department 200 Mobile Devices 300 Communication Network

Claims

1. A metal ion water generating unit that generates metal ion water; A case for accommodating the metal ion water generating unit; a cable connection portion to which a detachable cable that supplies at least power to the metal ion water generating portion is connected; a pipe connection portion to which a pipe through which water flows is connected; a waterproof structure that prevents water from entering the cable connection portion, The cable connection portion is a socket located inside the socket opening, The waterproof structure of the metal ion water generating device includes a wall portion formed between the pipe connection portion and the insertion opening, and an enclosure portion surrounding the insertion opening and the wall portion.

2. A metal ion water generating device as described in claim 1, wherein the cable connection portion is arranged to be on the lower side when the pipe connection portion is installed facing downward.

3. a detection unit that detects intrusion of water into the cable connection portion; The metal ion water generating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an alarm unit that issues an alarm when the intrusion of water is detected by the detection unit.

4. The metal ion water generating device according to claim 3 , wherein the notification unit includes a display unit for displaying a message.

5. 5. The metal ion water generating device according to claim 3, wherein the notification unit includes a communication unit for communicating with an external device.

6. The metal ion water generating apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the external device includes a washing machine.

7. The metal ion water generating device according to claim 5 or 6, An external device that communicates with the metal ion water generating device, The external device is a system that receives predetermined information from the metal ion water generating device and notifies a user of the information.

8. The external device includes a washing machine to which the metal ion water generated in the metal ion water generating unit is supplied, The washing machine transmits an instruction signal corresponding to an operation mode to the metal ion water generating device, The system according to claim 7 , wherein the metal ion water generating device operates in response to an instruction signal from the external device.

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