Holding member, irradiation tool and plasma device

Abstract

An irradiation instrument comprises a first electrode to which a voltage is applied in order to generate a plasma, and a holding member that holds the first electrode. The holding member has a first member and a second member. By the first member and the second member being in contact, a storage space for accommodating the first electrode is constituted. The contact surface of the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is not perpendicular with respect to the axis of the first electrode.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a holding member, an irradiation instrument, and a plasma device. [Background technology]

[0002] A technology that uses plasma for the purpose of dental treatment and the like has been proposed (see JP2017-35281A). The handpiece for a plasma irradiation device disclosed in JP2017-35281A sterilizes an affected area by irradiating the affected area with plasma from a tip. The handpiece for a plasma irradiation device in JP2017-35281A includes a second electrode (33) electrically connected to an electric connector (40), an insulating tube (36) that electrically insulates and covers the electrode, and a housing that houses the electrode and the insulating tube. The insulating tube (36) is formed in a cylindrical shape so as to cover the base side of the second electrode (33), one end of which is attached to the electric connector (40), and a member such as a glass support member (38) is attached to the other end. DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION

[0003] When assembling an assembly by attaching one end of an insulating tube to an electrode and then attaching other members to the other end of the insulating tube, there is room for improvement in ease of assembly. In order to improve the ease of assembly of an irradiation device that irradiates plasma, it is considered preferable to make the holding member that holds the electrode have a split structure. However, as described below, when improving the ease of assembly by adopting a split structure for the holding member, there is a risk of a short circuit occurring between the electrode and an object outside the holding member.

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a holding member, an electrode holder, an irradiation tool, and a plasma device that can effectively solve such problems.

[0005] The irradiation device according to the present invention comprises a first electrode to which a voltage is applied to generate plasma, and a holding member that holds the first electrode, the holding member having a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, and the contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-vertical contact surface that is non-perpendicular to the axis of the first electrode.

[0006] In an illumination device according to the present invention, any perpendicular line to the axis that passes through the non-vertical contact surface may be non-parallel to the non-vertical contact surface.

[0007] In an illumination device according to the invention, the non-vertical contact surface may form an angle of greater than 45° with a radial direction perpendicular to the axis.

[0008] In the irradiation instrument according to the present invention, the non-vertical contact surface may surround the first electrode from a periphery centered on the axis line.

[0009] In an illumination device according to the present invention, the non-vertical contact surface may include a first non-vertical contact surface and a second non-vertical contact surface spaced apart from the first non-vertical contact surface in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis.

[0010] In the irradiation instrument according to the present invention, the first electrode may have a terminal portion for connection to an external power source, and the non-vertical contact surface may be located outward of the terminal portion in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis.

[0011] In the irradiation instrument according to the present invention, the contact surface may include a vertical contact surface perpendicular to the axis, and the vertical contact surface may be different from a region in which the terminal portion is located in the direction in which the axis extends.

[0012] In the irradiation device according to the present invention, the first electrode may have an enlarged portion having a maximum radial outward protruding length perpendicular to the axis, and the non-perpendicular contact surface may be located outside the enlarged portion in the radial direction.

[0013] In the irradiation instrument according to the present invention, the contact surface may include a vertical contact surface perpendicular to the axis, and the vertical contact surface may be located in a region different from a region in which the expanded diameter portion is located in the direction in which the axis extends.

[0014] In the illumination device according to the present invention, a second electrode may be attached to the holding member so as to face a part of the first electrode, and the non-vertical contact surface may be located in an area different from an area in which the second electrode is located in the direction in which the axis extends.

[0015] The irradiation instrument according to the present invention may comprise an outer casing member that is electrically grounded and that houses the entire first electrode, and the non-vertical contact surface may be located between the first electrode and the outer casing member.

[0016] The plasma device according to the present invention comprises the irradiation tool described above.

[0017] The holding member according to the present invention is a holding member that holds a first electrode to which a voltage is applied to generate plasma, the holding member having a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member contacting each other to form a storage space for accommodating the first electrode, and the contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-vertical contact surface that is non-perpendicular to the axis of the first electrode.

[0018] According to the holding member, irradiation tool, and plasma device of the present invention, it is possible to improve assembly ease while suppressing short circuits between the electrodes and objects outside the holding member. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a plasma device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a plasma device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an illumination device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the illumination device of FIG. 3 taken along line IV-IV. [Diagram 5] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the irradiation device of FIG. 3 taken along line VV. [Figure 6] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of an illumination device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first member and a second portion of a holding member according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of an irradiation device according to a reference example. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an irradiation device according to a first modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an irradiation device according to a second modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first member and a second member of a holding member according to a third modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an irradiation device according to a third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings accompanying this specification, the scale and aspect ratios have been appropriately changed and exaggerated from those of the actual objects for the sake of ease of understanding.

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings attached to this specification, the scale and the aspect ratio are appropriately changed and exaggerated from those of the actual objects for the convenience of illustration and understanding.

[0022] Furthermore, terms used in this specification that specify shapes, geometric conditions, and the extent thereof, such as "parallel," "perpendicular," and "same," as well as values ​​of length and angle, are not to be bound by strict meanings, but are to be interpreted to include a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0023] The plasma device of the present invention is a plasma jet irradiation device or an active gas irradiation device. Both the plasma jet irradiation device and the active gas irradiation device generate plasma. The plasma jet irradiation device directly irradiates the generated plasma and active species to the irradiated object. The active species is generated by the reaction of the gas in the plasma or the gas around the plasma with the plasma. The active species is, for example, active oxygen species and active nitrogen species. The active oxygen species is, for example, hydroxyl radical, singlet oxygen, ozone, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion radical, etc. The active nitrogen species is, for example, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, peroxynitrite, peroxynitrous acid, dinitrogen trioxide, etc. The active gas irradiation device irradiates the irradiated object with an active gas containing active species. The active species is generated by the reaction of the gas in the plasma or the gas around the plasma with the plasma.

[0024] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the plasma device, the irradiation tool, and the holding member will be described. The plasma device of this embodiment is, for example, an active gas irradiation device. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the active gas irradiation device 100 of this embodiment includes an irradiation tool 10, a supply unit 20, a gas pipeline 30, a voltage supply line 40, a supply source 70, a notification unit 80, and a control unit 90 (calculation unit).

[0025] The irradiation instrument 10 discharges the active gas generated in the irradiation instrument 10. The irradiation instrument 10 is operated by a doctor or the like, and has a shape, size, and weight that are easy to operate by a human hand. The irradiation instrument 10 is connected to the supply unit 20 by a gas pipeline 30, a grounding wire 31, and a voltage supply line 40. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the irradiation instrument 10 includes an outer tube member 8 described later, and a nozzle 9 that constitutes the tip of the irradiation instrument 10. The nozzle 9 is attached to the tip of a holding member 1 described later. The nozzle 9 has a flow path for active gas inside. The flow path for active gas in the nozzle 9 is connected to a flow path for plasma generation gas inside the holding member 1 described later. When the irradiation instrument 10 has the nozzle 9, the active gas passes through an irradiation port 1c1 of a third member 1c of the holding member 1 described later and a flow path inside the nozzle 9, and is discharged from a nozzle irradiation port 9a located at the tip of the nozzle 9. The gas pipeline 30 and the voltage supply line 40 are stored in a single cable 32. The supply unit 20 supplies power and a gas for generating plasma to the irradiation instrument 10. The supply unit 20 contains a supply source 70. The supply source 70 contains a gas for generating plasma. The supply unit 20 receives power from a power source such as a 100V household power source. The supply unit 20 may also be equipped with a rechargeable battery as a power source inside.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view (longitudinal cross-sectional view) of the irradiation instrument 10 along the extending direction of the irradiation instrument 10. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section along the line IV-IV of the irradiation instrument 10 in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section along the line VV of the irradiation instrument 10 in FIG. 3. Note that in FIGS. 3 to 5, the outer tubular member 8 and the nozzle 9 are omitted. As shown in FIG. 3, the irradiation instrument 10 includes an electrode holder 7. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the electrode holder 7 includes a first electrode 4 and a holder member 1 that holds the first electrode 4. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the electrode holder 7 further includes a second electrode 5, a tubular dielectric 3, and O-rings 6a, 6b, and 6c.

[0027] As described above, the irradiation instrument 10 may include an electrically grounded outer tube member 8 in addition to the electrode holder 7. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an area surrounded by a two-dot chain line with a reference symbol VI in FIG. 3 for the irradiation instrument 10 including the electrode holder 7 and the outer tube member 8 shown in FIG. 3. As an example, the outer tube member 8 is a conductive member having a substantially cylindrical shape and accommodating the entire first electrode 4 therein. The outer tube member 8 may accommodate the entire electrode holder 7. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the outer tube member 8 accommodates the electrode holder 7 therein. By the irradiation instrument 10 having the outer tube member 8, the electric field generated by the irradiation instrument 10 can be suppressed, and the user who handles the irradiation instrument 10 can be effectively prevented from receiving an electric shock.

[0028] The first electrode 4 is an electrode to which a voltage is applied in order to generate plasma. In the example shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the first electrode 4 has a terminal portion 4a connected to an external power source via a voltage supply line 40, and a voltage is applied from the external power source. As an example, the terminal portion 4a is a solder portion in the case where the voltage supply line 40 is soldered to the first electrode 4.

[0029] 3, the first electrode 4 has an axis O1. The axis O1 of the first electrode 4 is, for example, a virtual line segment that extends in a direction d1 in which the first electrode 4 extends and is located in a range in which the first electrode 4 is located in the direction d1. Hereinafter, the direction d1 in which the axis O1 extends is also referred to as the axial direction d1.

[0030] The first electrode 4 has an expanded diameter portion 4b whose outward protruding length in the radial direction d2 perpendicular to the axis O1 is the largest. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the first electrode 4 has an expanded diameter portion 4b and a narrow portion 4c whose outward protruding length in the radial direction d2 is smaller than that of the expanded diameter portion 4b. A part of the expanded diameter portion 4b is connected to an external power source to serve as a terminal portion 4a. In the examples shown in Figs. 3 to 5, the expanded diameter portion 4b and the narrow portion 4c each have a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction d1.

[0031] The outer diameter d of the portion of the first electrode 4 facing the second electrode 5 described later can be appropriately determined in consideration of the use of the active gas irradiation device 100 (i.e., the size of the irradiation instrument 10) and the like. When the active gas irradiation device 100 is an intraoral treatment instrument, the outer diameter d is preferably 0.5 mm to 20 mm, more preferably 1 mm to 10 mm. If the outer diameter d is equal to or greater than the above lower limit, the first electrode 4 can be easily manufactured. In addition, if the outer diameter d is equal to or greater than the above lower limit, the surface area of ​​the first electrode 4 is increased, and plasma can be generated more efficiently, thereby promoting healing and the like. If the outer diameter d is equal to or less than the above upper limit, plasma can be generated more efficiently and healing and the like can be promoted without excessively increasing the size of the irradiation instrument 10.

[0032] The material of the first electrode 4 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material, and metals that can be used for electrodes of known plasma devices can be used. Examples of materials for the first electrode 4 include metals such as stainless steel, copper, and tungsten, and carbon.

[0033] The voltage applied to the first electrode 4 is not particularly limited as long as plasma is generated between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5. When plasma is generated using a gas containing nitrogen as a main component as described below as the plasma generating gas, the voltage applied to the first electrode 4 is, for example, 0.5 kVpp or more and 20 kVpp or less. The voltage applied to the first electrode 4 is more preferably 2 kVpp or more and 18 kVpp or less, and even more preferably 5 kVpp or more and 15 kVpp or less. In addition, "pp" in "kVpp" is an abbreviation for peak to peak.

[0034] The second electrode 5 is an electrode facing a part of the first electrode 4. In the example shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, the second electrode 5 is a cylindrical electrode that goes around a part of the first electrode 4. In the example shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, the second electrode 5 faces a part of the narrow part 4c of the first electrode 4 in the radial direction d2. In this embodiment, the second electrode 5 is electrically grounded. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the second electrode 5 is electrically grounded by being connected to the ground wire 31. By supplying a plasma generating gas between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 and applying a voltage to the first electrode 4 facing the second electrode 5, the plasma generating gas can be ionized to generate plasma.

[0035] The effect of the second electrode 5 facing a part of the first electrode 4 will be described. Let us consider a case in which the length of the second electrode 5 in the axial direction d1 is greater than the length of the first electrode 4 in the axial direction d1, and the second electrode 5 faces the entire first electrode 4 in the axial direction d1. In this case, the area in which the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 face each other becomes larger. The temperature of the generated plasma becomes higher as the area of ​​the electrodes used becomes larger. For this reason, when the second electrode 5 faces the entire first electrode 4, the generated plasma becomes hotter.

[0036] In contrast, by having the second electrode 5 face a part of the first electrode 4, it is possible to prevent the generated plasma from becoming high temperature. Therefore, it is possible to generate a lower temperature plasma suitable for irradiation to, for example, the teeth or skin of a human or animal. In particular, even when a higher voltage is applied to the electrode, it is possible to prevent the generated plasma from becoming high temperature. Therefore, it can be said that the form in which the second electrode 5 faces a part of the first electrode 4 is particularly suitable for applying a high voltage to the electrode.

[0037] In the example shown in Fig. 3, the tip 4d of the first electrode 4 protrudes further toward the tip side (left side in Fig. 3) of the irradiation instrument 10 than the tip 5a of the second electrode 5. This allows plasma to be generated stably over the entire length of the second electrode 5 in the axial direction d1.

[0038] The material of the second electrode 5 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material, and may be any metal used in electrodes of known plasma devices. Examples of materials for the second electrode 5 include metals such as stainless steel, copper, and tungsten, and carbon.

[0039] The tubular dielectric 3 is a member having an inner hollow portion 3a. In the example shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 5, the tubular dielectric 3 is a cylindrical member extending in the axial direction d1. As shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 5, a first electrode 4 is disposed in the inner hollow portion 3a of the tubular dielectric 3. In the example shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 5, a part of the narrow portion 4c of the first electrode 4 is disposed in the inner hollow portion 3a.

[0040] 3 and 5, the first electrode 4 is disposed apart from the inner surface of the tubular dielectric 3. The second electrode 5 is disposed in contact with the outer surface of the tubular dielectric 3.

[0041] A dielectric material used in a known plasma device can be used as the material of the tubular dielectric 3. The material of the tubular dielectric 3 is, for example, glass, ceramics, synthetic resin, etc. The lower the dielectric constant of the tubular dielectric 3, the more preferable it is.

[0042] The inner diameter R of the tubular dielectric 3 can be appropriately determined in consideration of the outer diameter d of the portion of the first electrode 4 facing the second electrode 5 described later. The inner diameter R is determined so that the distance s described later falls within a desired range.

[0043] When the first electrode 4 and the tubular dielectric 3 are disposed apart from each other, the distance s between the outer surface of the first electrode 4 and the inner surface of the tubular dielectric 3 is preferably 0.05 mm to 5 mm, and more preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm. If the distance s is equal to or greater than the above lower limit, a desired amount of plasma generating gas can easily flow when the inner space 3a of the tubular dielectric 3 is used as a flow path for plasma generating gas, as described below. If the distance s is equal to or less than the above upper limit, plasma can be generated more efficiently and the temperature of the active gas can be lowered.

[0044] The holding member 1 is a member that holds the electrode. As an example, the holding member 1 electrically insulates the first electrode 4. As an example, the holding member 1 contacts the first electrode 4 and holds the first electrode 4 as shown in FIG. 3. As an example, the holding member 1 directly faces the first electrode 4 and holds the first electrode 4. In other words, between the holding member 1 and the first electrode 4, at least a partial area where no other member is located is formed. As shown in FIG. 3, the holding member 1 has a first member 1a and a second member 1b. The first member 1a and the second member 1b contact each other to form a storage space 1d that stores at least a part of the first electrode 4. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the expanded diameter portion 4b of the first electrode 4 is stored in the storage space 1d.

[0045] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the first member 1a and the second member 1b. In FIG. 7, screw holes used to fix the first member 1a and the second member 1b to each other are omitted. In the example shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 7, the first member 1a and the second member 1b are both substantially cylindrical members extending in the axial direction d1. In the example shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 7, the second member 1b has a shape that allows at least a part of it to be inserted into the first member 1a. Specifically, the second member 1b has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the first member 1a at least partially. Then, the first member 1a and the second member 1b come into contact with each other by inserting a part of the second member 1b into the first member 1a, and a storage space 1d is formed. Although not shown, the first member 1a and the second member 1b may come into contact with each other by inserting at least a part of the first member 1a into the second member 1b, and a storage space 1d may be formed.

[0046] 4, the second member 1b is provided with a screw hole 1b1 for inserting a screw. Although not shown, the first member 1a is also provided with a screw hole. The first member 1a and the second member 1b are fixed to each other in a state of contact with each other by screws (not shown) inserted into the screw holes of the first member 1a and the second member 1b.

[0047] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the first member 1a contacts the first electrode 4 from one side (the right side in FIG. 3) along the axis O1, and restricts the movement of the first electrode 4 to one side along the axis O1. The second member 1b contacts the first electrode 4 from the other side (the left side in FIG. 3) along the axis O1, and restricts the movement of the first electrode 4 to the other side along the axis O1. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the second member 1b contacts the enlarged diameter portion 4b of the first electrode 4 from the other side along the axis O1 via an O-ring 6a. The O-ring 6a is a member made of an elastic resin member, and is sandwiched between the enlarged diameter portion 4b and the second member 1b, and is in close contact with the enlarged diameter portion 4b and the second member 1b. As a result, the first electrode 4 is held in a state in which its movement in the axial direction d1 is restricted.

[0048] The second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 are attached to the holding member 1. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the holding member 1 further includes a third member 1c. The holding member 1 further holds the second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 with the second member 1b and the third member 1c. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the third member 1c is a substantially cylindrical member extending in the axial direction d1. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the second member 1b has a shape that allows at least a part of it to be inserted into the third member 1c. Specifically, the second member 1b has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the third member 1c at least in part. By inserting a part of the second member 1b into the third member 1c, the second member 1b and the third member 1c come into contact with each other, and a space that accommodates the second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 is formed. Although not shown, at least a portion of the third member 1c may be inserted into the second member 1b, so that the second member 1b and the third member 1c come into contact with each other and a space for accommodating the second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 is formed.

[0049] The second member 1b contacts the second electrode 5 from one side along the axis O1, restricting the movement of the second electrode 5 to one side along the axis O1. The third member 1c contacts the second electrode from the other side along the axis O1, restricting the movement of the second electrode 5 to the other side along the axis O1. This holds the second electrode 5 in a state where its movement in the axial direction d1 is restricted.

[0050] Furthermore, the second member 1b contacts the tubular dielectric 3 from one side along the axis O1 via the O-ring 6b, and restricts the movement of the tubular dielectric 3 to one side along the axis O1. The third member 1c contacts the tubular dielectric 3 from the other side along the axis O1 via the O-ring 6c, and restricts the movement of the tubular dielectric 3 to the other side along the axis O1. The O-rings 6b and 6c are members made of elastic resin material, and have an inner diameter that fits closely to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular dielectric 3. This allows the tubular dielectric 3 to be held in a state in which its movement in the axial direction d1 is restricted.

[0051] An irradiation port 1c1 is provided at the tip of the third member 1c on the tip side (left side in FIG. 3) of the irradiation device 10. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the irradiation port 1c1 communicates the inner hollow portion 3a of the tubular dielectric 3 with the outside of the irradiation device 10.

[0052] 3 and 4, the holding member 1 further has a voltage supply line accommodating portion 1e that accommodates a portion of the voltage supply line 40 so that the voltage supply line 40 is connected to the terminal portion 4a and can extend to the outside of the holding member 1. In addition, in the example shown in Fig. 3 and 5, the holding member 1 further has a ground line accommodating portion 1f that accommodates a portion of the ground line 31 so that the ground line 31 is connected to the second electrode 5 and can extend to the outside of the holding member 1.

[0053] 3 to 7, the first member 1a, the second member 1b, and the third member 1c are substantially cylindrical in shape. Although not shown, the first member 1a, the second member 1b, and the third member 1c may be polygonal, such as a rectangular, hexagonal, or octagonal cylinder.

[0054] The materials of the first member 1a, the second member 1b, and the third member 1c are not particularly limited, but are preferably insulating materials. Insulating materials include, for example, thermoplastic resins, thermosetting resins, etc. Thermoplastic resins include, for example, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin (ABS resin), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyethyleneimine (PEI), polyacetal (POM), modified polyphenylene ether (mPPE), etc. Thermosetting resins include, for example, phenol resins, melamine resins, urea resins, epoxy resins, unsaturated polyester resins, silicone resins, etc. In addition, insulating materials can be used that are mainly made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and are filled and compounded with glass short fibers, inorganic fillers, etc. Examples of such materials include Unilate (registered trademark) manufactured by Unitika Ltd. As the material for the first member 1a, the second member 1b and the third member 1c, PEEK or mPPE is more preferable because it has resin properties suitable for the materials for the first member 1a, the second member 1b and the third member 1c.

[0055] The holding member 1 includes the first member 1a, the second member 1b, and further includes the third member 1c, so that the holding member 1 can be disassembled into a plurality of members. Therefore, the first electrode 4, the second electrode 5, the tubular dielectric 3, and the like held by the holding member 1 can be easily removed from the holding member 1. In addition, the electrode holder 7 and the irradiation device 10 can be easily assembled using the first member 1a, the second member 1b, and the third member 1c.

[0056] The irradiation device 10 shown in Fig. 3 can be assembled, for example, by the following procedure: First, the first member 1a, the second member 1b, and the first electrode 4 are arranged so that the first member 1a and the second member 1b face each other with the first electrode 4 interposed therebetween.

[0057] Next, the first member 1a and the second member 1b are brought into contact with each other and fixed to each other so that at least a part of the first electrode 4 is accommodated in the storage space 1d. In particular, in the case of the irradiation device 10 shown in FIG. 3, the first electrode 4 is inserted into the first member 1a from the enlarged diameter portion 4b side so that at least the enlarged diameter portion 4b is located inside the first member 1a and at least a part of the detailed portion 4c is located outside the first member 1a. As a result, the first electrode 4 and the first member 1a are brought into contact with each other in the axial direction d1, and the movement of the first electrode 4 is suppressed. Next, the second member 1b is brought close from the detailed portion 4c side of the first electrode 4, and the first member 1a and the second member 1b are brought into contact with each other and fixed to each other so that the detailed portion 4c passes through the inside of the second member 1b and the second member 1b covers the enlarged diameter portion 4b. As a result, the first electrode 4 is held by the first member 1a and the second member 1b.

[0058] Next, the third member 1c, the second electrode 5, and the tubular dielectric 3 are arranged so that the second member 1b and the third member 1c face each other with the second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 interposed therebetween. Next, the second member 1b and the third member 1c are brought into contact with each other and fixed to each other so that the second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 are housed between the second member 1b and the third member 1c.

[0059] The irradiation device 10 according to this embodiment can be assembled according to the above-mentioned procedure, and when the first member 1a and the second member 1b are brought into contact with each other, the first electrode 4 and the second member 1b are less likely to come into contact with each other, resulting in good assembly properties.

[0060] 3 and 4, the contact surface 2 between the first member 1a and the second member 1b includes a non-vertical contact surface 2a that is not perpendicular to the axis O1. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the contact surface 2 includes a vertical contact surface 2b that is perpendicular to the axis O1 as well as the non-vertical contact surface 2a.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 3, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located outward in the radial direction d2 with respect to the first electrode 4. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the angle θ that the non-vertical contact surface 2a makes with respect to the radial direction d2 is 90°. As described above, the contact surface 2 between the first member 1a and the second member 1b is formed by inserting a part of the second member 1b into the first member 1a, so that the non-vertical contact surface 2a surrounds the first electrode 4 from the periphery centered on the axis O1 as shown in Fig. 4.

[0062] The effect of the contact surface 2 including the non-vertical contact surface 2a will be described by comparing with a reference example. First, as a reference example, a case where the contact surface 2 does not include the non-vertical contact surface 2a will be considered. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the periphery of the contact surface 2 in an irradiation device 10 including an electrode holder 7 and an outer tube member 8 according to a reference example. A conductive object may be disposed outside the first electrode 4 in the radial direction d2 and outside the holding member 1, such as the outer tube member 8 shown in FIG. 8. Here, the contact surface 2 according to the reference example does not have the non-vertical contact surface 2a and is a surface perpendicular to the axis O1. In this case, a perpendicular line L1 that is perpendicular to the axis O1 and located on the contact surface 2 exists. On this perpendicular line L1, the electric field lines from the first electrode 4 to which a voltage is applied toward an object outside the holding member 1 are not blocked by the first member 1a and the second member 1b. Therefore, there is a possibility that a short circuit occurs between the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 due to a creeping discharge through the first member 1a and the second member 1b. If a short circuit occurs, there is a concern that the irradiation device 10 may be damaged and may break down.

[0063] In contrast, the contact surface 2 according to the present embodiment includes a non-vertical contact surface 2a. In the example shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 6, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is provided so that a perpendicular line to the axis O1 includes a line intersecting the non-vertical contact surface 2a. By including the non-vertical contact surface 2a in the contact surface 2, the electric field lines extending from the first electrode 4 in the radial direction d2 toward an object outside the holding member 1 are blocked by the first member 1a and the second member 1b at a location where the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located outside the radial direction d2 of the first electrode 4. For this reason, the creepage distance between the first electrode 4 and the object outside the holding member 1 can be lengthened. Then, a short circuit between the first electrode 4 and the object outside the holding member 1 through the first member 1a and the second member 1b can be suppressed. In particular, the holding member 1 can be easily disassembled and assembled, while a short circuit through the first member 1a and the second member 1b can be suppressed.

[0064] 6, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located between the first electrode 4 and the outer tubular member 8. This makes it possible to prevent a short circuit between the first electrode 4 and the outer tubular member 8 via the gap between the first member 1a and the second member 1b.

[0065] In addition, in this embodiment, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is provided so that any perpendicular line to the axis O1 passing through the non-vertical contact surface 2a is non-parallel to the non-vertical contact surface O1. In other words, in this embodiment, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is provided so that if a perpendicular line to the axis O1 passing through the non-vertical contact surface 2a is drawn, it will necessarily be non-parallel to the non-vertical contact surface 2a, and it is impossible to draw a perpendicular line parallel to the non-vertical contact surface 2a. As a result, on the line perpendicular to the axis O1 and passing through the non-vertical contact surface 2a, the electric force lines from the first electrode 4 toward an object outside the holding member 1 are blocked by the first member 1a and the second member 1b. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a short circuit between the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 via the first member 1a and the second member 1b.

[0066] In addition, components for connecting the first electrode 4 to an external power source, such as solder or a portion of the voltage supply line 40 soldered to the first electrode 4, may be arranged on the terminal portion 4a of the first electrode 4. For this reason, it is considered that the distance between the first electrode 4 and the components electrically connected to the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 is likely to be short in the terminal portion 4a by the amount of components for connecting the first electrode 4 to an external power source arranged thereon, and a short circuit is likely to occur. Here, in the example shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 6, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located outside the terminal portion 4a in the radial direction d2. This makes it possible to effectively suppress a short circuit between the terminal portion 4a and an object outside the holding member 1.

[0067] In addition, since the expanded diameter portion 4b of the first electrode 4 is the portion of the first electrode 4 that protrudes the longest outward in the radial direction d2, it is considered that the distance between the holding member 1 and an object outside the holding member 1 is likely to be short, and a short circuit is likely to occur. Here, in the example shown in Figures 3, 4, and 6, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located outside the expanded diameter portion 4b in the radial direction d2. This makes it possible to effectively suppress a short circuit between the expanded diameter portion 4b and an object outside the holding member 1.

[0068] 3, the second electrode 5 faces a part of the first electrode 4. It is considered that the part of the first electrode 4 that does not face the second electrode 5 is more likely to short-circuit with an object outside the holding member 1 than the part that faces the second electrode 5, since there is no second electrode 5 therebetween. Here, in the example shown in FIG. 3, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located in a region different from the region in which the second electrode 5 is located in the direction in which the axis O1 extends. This makes it possible to effectively suppress a short circuit between the part of the first electrode 4 that does not face the second electrode 5 and an object outside the holding member 1.

[0069] 3, a part of the first electrode 4 is disposed in the inner hollow portion 3a of the tubular dielectric 3. Here, in the example shown in Fig. 3, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located in a region different from the region where the tubular dielectric 3 is located in the axial direction d1 in which the axis O1 extends.

[0070] 4, as described above, the non-vertical contact surface 2a surrounds the first electrode 4 from the periphery centered on the axis O1. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a short circuit between the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 in the entire circumferential direction centered on the axis O1.

[0071] 3 and 6, the contact surface 2 includes a vertical contact surface 2b. Let us consider a case in which the vertical contact surface 2b is located in a region in the axial direction d1 where the first electrode 4 is located. In this case, the thickness of the holding member 1 that blocks the electric field lines extending from the first electrode 4 in the radial direction d2 toward an object outside the holding member 1 becomes small in the region where the vertical contact surface 2b is located.

[0072] 3 and 6, the vertical contact surface 2b is located in a region different from the region in which the terminal portion 4a is located in the axial direction d1. This ensures the thickness of the holding member 1 in the region in which the terminal portion 4a is located. This makes it possible to prevent a short circuit between the terminal portion 4a and an object outside the holding member 1 through a portion of the holding member 1 where the thickness is small, even when a particularly high voltage is applied to the first electrode 4.

[0073] 3 and 6, the vertical contact surface 2b is located in a region different from the region in which the expanded diameter portion 4b is located in the axial direction d1. This makes it possible to prevent a short circuit between the expanded diameter portion 4b and an object outside the holding member 1 through a portion of the holding member 1 where the thickness is small.

[0074] 3 and 6, the first electrode 4 has a first portion 4e located in the inner hollow portion 3a of the tubular dielectric 3 and a second portion 4f located outside the inner hollow portion 3a. The vertical contact surface 2b is located in a region different from the region in which the second portion 4f is located in the axial direction d1.

[0075] 3 and 6, the vertical contact surface 2b is located in a region different from the region in the axial direction d1 where the first electrode 4 is located. This ensures the thickness of the holding member 1 in the entire region where the first electrode 4 is located. This makes it possible to prevent a short circuit between the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 through a portion of the holding member 1 where the thickness is small.

[0076] In the irradiation instrument 10, a plasma generating gas is supplied between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 from the supply unit 20. In the example shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, the first electrode 4 and the tubular dielectric 3 are arranged at a distance from each other. In this case, the plasma generating gas may be supplied between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 by using the inner space 3a of the tubular dielectric 3 as a flow path for the plasma generating gas. In addition, although not shown, when the second electrode 5 is arranged at a distance from the tubular dielectric 3, the gap between the second electrode 5 and the tubular dielectric 3 may be used as a flow path for the plasma generating gas to supply the plasma generating gas between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5.

[0077] The method of supplying the plasma generating gas between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 is not particularly limited. Although not shown, the inside of the first electrode 4 may be hollow. In this case, the plasma generating gas supplied to the irradiation instrument 10 through the gas pipe 30 passes through the inside of the first electrode 4 and exits from a hole in the first electrode 4 provided at the portion facing the second electrode 5, thereby being supplied between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5. In addition, a through hole may be provided in the holding member 1 described later. In this case, the plasma generating gas supplied to the irradiation instrument 10 through the gas pipe 30 is supplied to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 through the through hole in the holding member 1.

[0078] A supply unit 20 as shown in Fig. 1 supplies electricity and plasma generating gas to the irradiation instrument 10. The supply unit 20 can adjust the voltage and frequency applied between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5. The supply unit 20 includes a housing 21 that houses a supply source 70. The housing 21 houses the supply source 70 in a detachable manner. This allows the supply source 70 of the plasma generating gas to be replaced when the gas in the supply source 70 housed in the housing 21 runs out.

[0079] The supply source 70 supplies a plasma generating gas between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5. The supply source 70 is a pressure-resistant container that contains the plasma generating gas. As shown in FIG. 2, the supply source 70 is detachably attached to a pipe 75 arranged in the housing 21. The pipe 75 connects the supply source 70 and the gas pipeline 30. A solenoid valve 71, a pressure regulator 73, a flow rate controller 74, and a pressure sensor 72 (amount sensor) are attached to the pipe 75.

[0080] When the solenoid valve 71 is in an open state, plasma generating gas is supplied from the supply source 70 to the irradiation device 10 via the piping 75 and the gas pipeline 30. In the illustrated example, the solenoid valve 71 is not configured to adjust the valve opening degree, but is configured to only be switched between open and closed. The solenoid valve 71 may be configured to adjust the valve opening degree. The pressure regulator 73 is disposed between the solenoid valve 71 and the supply source 70. The pressure regulator 73 reduces the pressure of the plasma generating gas flowing from the supply source 70 to the solenoid valve 71 (reducing the pressure of the plasma generating gas).

[0081] The flow rate controller 74 is disposed between the solenoid valve 71 and the gas pipeline 30. The flow rate controller 74 adjusts the flow rate (amount supplied per unit time) of the plasma generating gas that has passed through the solenoid valve 71. The flow rate controller 74 adjusts the flow rate of the plasma generating gas to, for example, 3 L / min.

[0082] The pressure sensor 72 detects the remaining amount V1 of plasma generation gas in the supply source 70. The pressure sensor 72 measures the pressure (residual pressure) in the supply source 70 as the remaining amount V1. The pressure sensor 72 measures the pressure (primary pressure) of the plasma generation gas passing between the pressure regulator 73 and the supply source 70 (on the primary side of the pressure regulator 73) as the pressure of the supply source 70. As the pressure sensor 72, for example, the AP-V80 series (specifically, for example, AP-15S) from Keyence Corporation can be used.

[0083] The actual remaining amount V1 (volume) in the supply source 70 is calculated from the remaining pressure measured by the pressure sensor 72 and the capacity (internal volume) of the supply source 70. In the case where supply sources 70 of various capacities are used as the supply source 70, for example, the capacity for calculation may be set by selecting the actual capacity of the supply source 70 on a system screen of an input unit (not shown). In the case where supply sources 70 of a fixed capacity are used as the supply source 70, the control unit 90 may store the capacity in advance.

[0084] A joint 76 is provided at the end of the piping 75 on the supply source 70 side. The supply source 70 is detachably attached to the joint 76. By attaching and detaching the supply source 70 to the joint 76, the supply source 70 of the plasma generation gas can be replaced while the solenoid valve 71, the pressure regulator 73, the flow rate controller 74, and the pressure sensor 72 (hereinafter referred to as the "solenoid valve 71, etc.") are fixed to the housing 21. In this case, the common solenoid valve 71, etc. can be used for both the supply source 70 before replacement and the supply source 70 after replacement. Note that the solenoid valve 71, etc. may be fixed to the supply source 70 and be removable from the housing 21 together with the supply source 70.

[0085] As shown in Fig. 1, the gas pipeline 30 is a path for supplying plasma generating gas from the supply unit 20 to the irradiation tool 10. The gas pipeline 30 is connected to the rear end of the tubular dielectric 3 of the irradiation tool 10. There is no particular limitation on the material of the gas pipeline 30, and any material used for a known gas pipe can be applied. Examples of the material of the gas pipeline 30 include resin pipes and rubber tubes, and flexible materials are preferable.

[0086] The voltage supply line 40 is a wiring that supplies a voltage from the supply unit 20 to the irradiation instrument 10. The voltage supply line 40 is connected to the first electrode 4 of the irradiation instrument 10 as described above, and is also connected to a foot switch (not shown). There is no particular limitation on the material of the voltage supply line 40, and a material used for a known voltage supply line can be applied. Examples of the material of the voltage supply line 40 include a metal conductor coated with an insulating material.

[0087] The control unit 90 as shown in FIG. 2 is configured using an information processing device. That is, the control unit 90 includes a CPU (Central Processor Unit), a memory, and an auxiliary storage device, which are connected by a bus. The control unit 90 operates by executing a program. The control unit 90 may be built into the supply unit 20, for example. The control unit 90 controls the irradiation tool 10, the supply unit 20, and the notification unit 80.

[0088] A foot switch (not shown) is electrically connected to the control unit 90. When the foot switch is operated by a user of the irradiation device 10, an electrical signal is sent from the foot switch to the control unit 90. When the control unit 90 receives the electrical signal, the control unit 90 operates the solenoid valve 71 and the flow rate controller 74, and applies a voltage to the first electrode 4.

[0089] In this embodiment, when the user presses the foot switch once, the control unit 90 receives an electric signal. Then, the control unit 90 opens the solenoid valve 71 for a predetermined time, causes the flow rate controller 74 to adjust the flow rate of the plasma generating gas that has passed through the solenoid valve 71, and applies a voltage to the first electrode 4 for a predetermined time. As a result, a constant amount of plasma generating gas is supplied from the supply source 70 to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5, and the active gas is continuously discharged from the nozzle irradiation port 9a for a certain time (for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds, 30 seconds in this embodiment).

[0090] That is, in this embodiment, the amount of active gas discharged per one press of the foot switch by the user is fixed. Such an operation of discharging a predetermined amount of active gas is called a unit operation. In this embodiment, the unit operation is one press of the foot switch by the user. The amount of active gas discharged per unit operation (the amount of plasma generating gas supplied from the supply source 70 to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 per unit operation) may be a preset fixed value, or may be a variable value that can be set by operating an operation panel not shown, etc.

[0091] The control unit 90 calculates at least one of the remaining number of times N and the remaining time T of the plasma generating gas as the remaining information. In this embodiment, the control unit 90 calculates only the remaining number of times N of the remaining number of times N and the remaining time T as the remaining information. The remaining number of times N is the remaining number of unit operations in which the plasma generating gas can be supplied from the supply source 70 to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 by the plasma generating gas remaining in the supply source 70. The remaining time T is the remaining time in which the plasma generating gas can be supplied from the supply source 70 to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 by the plasma generating gas remaining in the supply source 70.

[0092] Both the remaining number of times N and the remaining time T can be calculated from the remaining amount V1 of plasma generation gas in the supply source 70. The remaining number of times N can be calculated (N=V1 / V2) based on the remaining amount V1 and the supply amount V2 of plasma generation gas per unit operation of the foot switch. In addition, the remaining number of times N is calculated by calculating the average value V2 (average value) of the usage amount (supply amount) of the plasma generation gas for the last few times and dividing the average value V2 (average value) by the remaining amount V1 of plasma generation gas. The remaining time T can be calculated (T=V1 / V3) based on the remaining amount V1 and the supply amount V3 of plasma generation gas supplied per unit time from the supply source 70 to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5.

[0093] The notification unit 80 notifies at least one of the remaining number of times N and the remaining time T. In this embodiment, the notification unit 80 displays the remaining number of times N. The notification unit 80 displays the remaining number of times N calculated by the control unit 90 as a number. As the notification unit 80, for example, a display device capable of displaying any number or a mechanical counter may be adopted.

[0094] In the illustrated example, the notification unit 80 is provided integrally with the housing 21 on the outer surface of the housing 21, but may be provided independently of the supply unit 20. The notification unit 80 may display the remaining number of times N in a form other than numbers. For example, the notification unit 80 may have an analog display formed by a dial and hands. Furthermore, for example, the notification unit 80 may notify the remaining number of times N by a color display mode or a light illumination mode.

[0095] Furthermore, the notification unit 80 may notify the remaining number of times N by voice. In this case, the notification unit 80 may be, for example, a speaker or the like.

[0096] In the present embodiment, when a constant amount of plasma generating gas is supplied from the supply source 70 to between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 when the user presses the foot switch, it is more convenient for the user to be informed of the remaining number of times N rather than the remaining time T.

[0097] Next, a method of using the active gas irradiation device 100 will be described. For example, a user such as a doctor moves the irradiation tool 10 and points the nozzle irradiation port 9a toward an object to be irradiated, which will be described later. In this state, the user presses a foot switch to supply electricity and plasma generating gas from a supply source 70 to the irradiation tool 10. The plasma generating gas supplied to the irradiation tool 10 flows into the inner space 3a of the tubular dielectric 3 from the rear end of the tubular dielectric 3. The plasma generating gas is ionized at the position where the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 face each other, and becomes plasma.

[0098] In this embodiment, the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5 face each other in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the plasma generation gas. The plasma generated at the position where the outer circumferential surface of the first electrode 4 and the inner circumferential surface of the second electrode 5 face each other changes its gas composition while flowing through the inner hollow portion 3a of the tubular dielectric 3, and becomes an activated gas containing active species such as radicals.

[0099] The generated activated gas is discharged from the nozzle irradiation port 9a. The discharged activated gas further activates a part of the gas in the vicinity of the nozzle irradiation port 9a to generate activated species. The activated gas containing these activated species is irradiated onto the object to be irradiated.

[0100] Examples of the irradiated object include cells, biological tissues, individual organisms, etc. Examples of biological tissues include organs such as internal organs, epithelial tissues covering the body surface and the inner surface of the body cavity, periodontal tissues such as gums, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament and cementum, teeth, bones, etc. Examples of individual organisms include mammals such as humans, dogs, cats, pigs, etc.; birds; fish, etc.

[0101] Examples of the plasma generating gas include rare gases such as helium, neon, argon, and krypton; nitrogen; and the like. These gases may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The plasma generating gas preferably contains nitrogen as a main component. Here, the term "containing nitrogen as a main component" means that the nitrogen content in the plasma generating gas is more than 50% by volume. That is, the nitrogen content in the plasma generating gas is preferably more than 50% by volume, more preferably 70% by volume or more, and particularly preferably 90% by volume to 100% by volume. In the plasma generating gas, gas components other than nitrogen are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include oxygen, rare gases, and the like.

[0102] When the plasma generating gas contains nitrogen as a main component, a particularly high voltage is required to generate plasma. Here, as described above, the invention according to this embodiment is particularly suitable for applying a high voltage to the electrodes because the second electrode 5 faces a part of the first electrode 4. For this reason, it can be said that the invention according to this embodiment is particularly suitable for the plasma generating gas containing nitrogen gas as a main component.

[0103] When the active gas irradiation device 100 is an intraoral treatment instrument, the oxygen concentration of the plasma generating gas introduced into the tubular dielectric 3 is preferably 1% by volume or less. If the oxygen concentration is equal to or less than the upper limit, the generation of ozone can be reduced.

[0104] The flow rate of the plasma generating gas introduced into the tubular dielectric 3 is preferably 1 L / min to 10 L / min. When the flow rate of the plasma generating gas introduced into the tubular dielectric 3 is equal to or higher than the lower limit, it is easy to suppress the rise in temperature of the irradiated surface of the irradiated object. When the flow rate of the plasma generating gas is equal to or lower than the upper limit, it is possible to further promote the cleaning, activation or healing of the irradiated object.

[0105] The temperature of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a is preferably 50°C or less, more preferably 45°C or less, and even more preferably 40°C or less. When the temperature of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a is equal to or less than the upper limit, it is easy to make the temperature of the irradiated surface equal to or less than 40°C. By making the temperature of the irradiated surface equal to or less than 40°C, even if the irradiated part is an affected part, the irritation to the affected part can be reduced. There is no particular limit to the lower limit of the temperature of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a, and it is, for example, 10°C or more. The temperature of the active gas is a value obtained by measuring the temperature of the active gas at the nozzle irradiation port 9a with a thermocouple.

[0106] The distance (irradiation distance) from the nozzle irradiation port 9a to the irradiated surface is preferably, for example, 0.01 mm to 10 mm. If the irradiation distance is equal to or greater than the lower limit, the temperature of the irradiated surface can be lowered, and irritation to the irradiated surface can be further alleviated. If the irradiation distance is equal to or less than the upper limit, the effect of healing can be further improved.

[0107] The temperature of the irradiated surface at a distance of 1 mm to 10 mm from the nozzle irradiation port 9a is preferably 40°C or less. If the temperature of the irradiated surface is 40°C or less, the stimulation to the irradiated surface can be reduced. The lower limit of the temperature of the irradiated surface is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 10°C or more. The temperature of the irradiated surface can be adjusted by a combination of the AC voltage applied between the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5, the discharge amount of the active gas to be irradiated, the path from the tip 4d of the first electrode 4 to the nozzle irradiation port 9a, and the like. The temperature of the irradiated surface can be measured using a thermocouple.

[0108] Examples of active species (radicals, etc.) contained in the active gas include hydroxyl radicals, singlet oxygen, ozone, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion radical, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, peroxynitrite, peroxynitrous acid, dinitrogen trioxide, etc. The type of active species contained in the active gas can be further adjusted, for example, to the type of plasma generating gas.

[0109] The density of hydroxyl radicals in the active gas (radical density) is preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 300 μmol / L. When the radical density is equal to or higher than the lower limit, it is easy to promote the cleaning, activation, or healing of abnormalities of the irradiated object selected from cells, living tissues, and individual organisms. When the radical density is equal to or lower than the upper limit, it is possible to reduce irritation to the irradiated surface.

[0110] The radical density can be measured, for example, by the following method. 0.2 mL of 0.2 mol / L DMPO (5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide) solution is irradiated with active gas for 30 seconds. At this time, the distance from the nozzle irradiation port 9a to the liquid surface is set to 5.0 mm. The hydroxyl radical concentration of the solution irradiated with the active gas is measured using the electron spin resonance (ESR) method, and this is taken as the radical density.

[0111] The density of singlet oxygen in the active gas (singlet oxygen density) is preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 300 μmol / L. When the singlet oxygen density is equal to or higher than the lower limit, it is easy to promote the purification, activation, or healing of abnormalities of irradiated objects such as cells, living tissues, and individual organisms. When the singlet oxygen density is equal to or lower than the upper limit, it is possible to reduce irritation to the irradiated surface.

[0112] The singlet oxygen density can be measured, for example, by the following method. 0.4 mL of a 0.1 mol / L solution of TPC (2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-3-pyrroline-3-carboxamide) is irradiated with active gas for 30 seconds. At this time, the distance from the nozzle irradiation port 9a to the liquid surface is set to 5.0 mm. The singlet oxygen concentration of the solution irradiated with the active gas is measured using the electron spin resonance (ESR) method, and this is taken as the singlet oxygen density.

[0113] The flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a is preferably 1 L / min to 10 L / min. When the flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a is equal to or higher than the lower limit, the effect of the active gas acting on the irradiated surface can be sufficiently enhanced. When the flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a is less than the upper limit, the temperature of the irradiated surface of the active gas can be prevented from increasing excessively. In addition, when the irradiated surface is wet, the irradiated surface can be prevented from drying rapidly. Furthermore, when the irradiated surface is an affected area, irritation to the patient can be suppressed. In the active gas irradiating device 100, the flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the nozzle irradiation port 9a can be adjusted by the supply amount of plasma generation gas to the tubular dielectric 3.

[0114] The active gas generated by the active gas irradiation device 100 has the effect of promoting the healing of injuries and abnormalities. By irradiating cells, biological tissues, or individual organisms with the active gas, the irradiated part can be purified, activated, or the healing of the irradiated part can be promoted.

[0115] When irradiating an active gas for the purpose of promoting the healing of a wound or an abnormality, the frequency, number of times, and duration of irradiation are not particularly limited. For example, when irradiating an affected area with an active gas at an irradiation amount of 1 L / min to 5.0 L / min, irradiation conditions such as 1 to 5 times a day, 10 seconds to 10 minutes each time, and 1 to 30 days are preferable from the viewpoint of promoting healing.

[0116] The active gas irradiation device 100 of this embodiment is particularly useful as an oral treatment instrument and a dental treatment instrument. The active gas irradiation device 100 of this embodiment is also suitable as an animal treatment instrument.

[0117] Although one embodiment has been described above with reference to specific examples, the above-mentioned specific examples are not intended to limit the embodiment. The above-mentioned embodiment can be implemented with various other specific examples, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the embodiment.

[0118] An example of the modification will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-mentioned specific example will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the above-mentioned specific example, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0119] (First Modification) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the non-vertical contact surface 2a forms an angle of 90° with respect to the radial direction d2. However, the angle θ that the non-vertical contact surface 2a forms with respect to the radial direction d2 is not limited to this. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an irradiation device 10 according to a first modified example. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the angle θ is not 90°. In addition, the contact surface 2 does not include the vertical contact surface 2b. It is preferable that the non-vertical contact surface 2a forms an angle θ larger than 45° with respect to the radial direction d2. In this case, the creepage distance between the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 can be made longer than when the angle θ is 45° or less.

[0120] (Second Modification) FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an irradiation device 10 according to a second modified example. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the non-vertical contact surface 2a includes a first non-vertical contact surface 2a1 and a second non-vertical contact surface 2a2 spaced from the first non-vertical contact surface 2a1 in the radial direction d2. In this modified example, each of the first non-vertical contact surface 2a1 and the second non-vertical contact surface 2a2 surrounds the first electrode 4 from the periphery centered on the axis O1. By including the first non-vertical contact surface 2a and the second non-vertical contact surface 2a2, the creepage distance between the first electrode 4 and an object outside the holding member 1 can be made longer.

[0121] (Third Modification) In the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example, the non-vertical contact surface 2a surrounds the first electrode 4 from the periphery centered on the axis O1. However, the form of the non-vertical contact surface 2a is not limited to this. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the first member 1a and the second member 1b according to the third modified example. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the irradiation instrument 10 according to the third modified example in a plane that passes through the terminal portion 4a and is perpendicular to the axis O1.

[0122] 11 and 12, when the first member 1a and the second member 1b are brought into contact with each other, a non-vertical contact surface 2a is formed in a portion of the circumferential direction centered on the axis O1. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the non-vertical contact surface 2a is located outward of the terminal portion 4a in the radial direction d2. In this case, the non-vertical contact surface 2a can effectively prevent a short circuit between the terminal portion 4a and an object outside the holding member 1.

[0123] (Fourth Modification) In the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example, the first member 1a and the second member 1b have a substantially cylindrical shape, and when the first member 1a and the second member 1b are brought into contact with each other to form the storage space 1d, the first member 1a and the second member 1b are aligned in the axial direction d1. However, the shape of the first member 1a and the second member 1b is not particularly limited as long as the storage space 1d and the contact surface 2 including the non-vertical contact surface 2a are formed by contacting each other. As an example, both the first member 1a and the second member 1b have a semi-cylindrical shape. In this case, the first member 1a and the second member 1b can be brought into contact with each other to form a cylindrical shape, and the inside of the cylindrical shape can be the storage space 1d.

[0124] (Fifth Modification) In the above-mentioned embodiment and each modified example, an example in which the second electrode 5 is electrically grounded has been described. However, the form of the second electrode 5 is not limited to this, and a voltage may also be applied to the second electrode 5. As an example, an alternating current shifted by a half period is applied to the first electrode 4 and the second electrode 5. In this case, the positional relationship between the first electrode 4 and the contact surface 2 described above may be applied to the positional relationship between the second electrode 5 and the contact surface 2, unless there is a particular contradiction.

[0125] The aspects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned individual embodiments, but include various modifications that may be conceived by a person skilled in the art, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned contents. In other words, various additions, modifications, and partial deletions are possible within the scope of the conceptual idea and intent of the present invention derived from the contents defined in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. a first electrode to which a voltage is applied to generate a plasma; a holding member for holding the first electrode, the holding member has a first member and a second member, and the first member and the second member are in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, a contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is non-perpendicular to an axis of the first electrode; An illumination device wherein any perpendicular line to said axis that passes through said non-vertical contact surface is non-parallel to said non-vertical contact surface.

2. a first electrode to which a voltage is applied to generate a plasma; a holding member for holding the first electrode, the holding member has a first member and a second member, and the first member and the second member are in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, a contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is non-perpendicular to an axis of the first electrode; The illumination device, wherein the non-vertical contact surface includes a first non-vertical contact surface and a second non-vertical contact surface spaced radially from the first non-vertical contact surface perpendicular to the axis.

3. a first electrode to which a voltage is applied to generate a plasma; a holding member for holding the first electrode, the holding member has a first member and a second member, and the first member and the second member are in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, a contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is non-perpendicular to an axis of the first electrode; The first electrode has a terminal portion for connection to an external power source, The non-vertical contact surface is located outwardly of the terminal portion in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis.

4. a first electrode to which a voltage is applied to generate a plasma; a holding member for holding the first electrode, the holding member has a first member and a second member, and the first member and the second member are in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, a contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is non-perpendicular to an axis of the first electrode; the first electrode has an expanded diameter portion whose outward protruding length in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis is the largest, The non-vertical contact surface is located radially outwardly of the enlarged portion.

5. 5. An illumination device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the non-vertical contact surface forms an angle of greater than 45[deg.] with a radial direction perpendicular to the axis.

6. 6. The illumination device according to claim 1, wherein the non-vertical contact surface surrounds the first electrode circumferentially about the axis.

7. The contact surface includes a vertical contact surface perpendicular to the axis, The illumination device according to claim 3 , wherein the vertical contact surface is located in a region different from a region in which the terminal portion is located in the extending direction of the axis.

8. The contact surface includes a vertical contact surface perpendicular to the axis, The illumination device according to claim 4 , wherein the vertical contact surface is located in a region different from a region in which the enlarged diameter portion is located in the direction in which the axis extends.

9. a second electrode is attached to the holding member so as to face a portion of the first electrode; The illumination device according to claim 1 , wherein the non-vertical contact surface is located in an area different from an area in which the second electrode is located in the direction in which the axis extends.

10. an outer cylinder member that is electrically grounded and that accommodates the first electrode in its entirety; 10. The illumination device of claim 1, wherein the non-vertical contact surface is located between the first electrode and the outer casing.

11. A plasma device comprising an irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A holding member that holds a first electrode to which a voltage is applied in order to generate plasma, the holding member has a first member and a second member, and the first member and the second member are in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, a contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is non-perpendicular to an axis of the first electrode; A retention member, wherein any perpendicular line to the axis that passes through the non-vertical contact surface is non-parallel to the non-vertical contact surface.

13. A holding member that holds a first electrode to which a voltage is applied in order to generate plasma, the holding member has a first member and a second member, and the first member and the second member are in contact with each other to form a storage space that houses the first electrode, a contact surface between the first member and the second member includes a non-perpendicular contact surface that is non-perpendicular to an axis of the first electrode; The non-vertical contact surface includes a first non-vertical contact surface and a second non-vertical contact surface spaced radially from the first non-vertical contact surface perpendicular to the axis.

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