Sterilizing machine and sterilizing device

Abstract

To provide a sterilization appliance and a sterilization device capable of achieving preferable sterilization.SOLUTION: A sterilization appliance comprises: engagement parts T12, T22 which can be engaged to an external unit 1, and into which electrical input is supplied from the external unit; a power supply circuit for using the input supplied to the engagement part, for generating a current; an ultraviolet radiation element for using the current supplied from the power supply circuit for radiating ultraviolet; a detecting part for detecting input supplied from the engagement parts; and a control part for, according to a detection result of the detection part, controlling the power supply circuit in at least one of first control and second control. In the appliance, the control part determines whether the input supplied from the engagement part satisfies a prescribed condition, by using the detection result of the detection part, and if it is determined that the prescribed condition is satisfied, the control part controls the power supply circuit in the first control, and if it is determined that the prescribed condition is not satisfied, the control part controls the power supply circuit in the second control.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization device and a sterilization apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a sterilization lamp fixture that has a reflector disposed on the back of a sterilization lamp so as to reflect ultraviolet rays forward and sterilizes the air in a room.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved is to provide a sterilization device and a sterilization apparatus that can achieve suitable sterilization.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention The sterilization device includes a sterilization instrument having an engagement portion to which an input is supplied, a power supply circuit that generates an electric current using the input supplied to the engagement portion, and an ultraviolet radiation element that emits ultraviolet radiation using the electric current supplied from the power supply circuit; a main body device having a fixing portion that can be engaged with the engagement portion of the sterilization instrument; a cover provided outside the sterilization instrument and the main body device to cover the sterilization instrument and the main body device; a first device fixed to the cover; a second device fixed to the main body device and connectable to the first device; and an electric circuit that supplies an input to the engagement portion of the sterilization instrument via the first device, the second device, and the fixing portion, and a support device that supports the main body device and the cover. When the control unit determines that the input is the voltage of the inverter and the switching unit is switched to the first state, one end side of the switching unit and the other end side of the switching unit are electrically connected, and a first current generated using the input supplied from the engagement portion flows through the first path. When the control unit determines that the input is not the voltage of the inverter and the switching unit is switched to the second state, one end side of the switching unit and the other end side of the switching unit are non-conductive, and a second current generated by the switching operation of the switching element flows through the second path. The ultraviolet radiation element emits ultraviolet radiation using the first current when the switching unit is switched to the first state, and emits ultraviolet radiation using the second current when the switching unit is switched to the second state. The electric circuit can supply power to the sterilization instrument when the first device and the second device are connected, and cannot supply power to the sterilization instrument when the first device and the second device are not connected.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a sterilization device and a sterilization apparatus that can achieve suitable sterilization.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0008] (First Embodiment)

[0009] FIGS. 1 to 3 are diagrams for explaining the sterilization device of the first embodiment, and FIGS. 4 to 5 are diagrams for explaining the sterilization device of the first embodiment. In FIGS. 1 to 5, some of the components are shown with omissions.

[0010] In FIGS. 1 and 2, the sterilization device 1 of the present embodiment includes a sterilization device 10, a main body device 71, a support device 74, a cover 78, and a fan 79. The sterilization device 10 includes a main body portion 11, a first electrode T11, a second electrode T12, a third electrode T21, and a fourth electrode T22.

[0011] The main body device 71 has fixing portions 72 and 73. The fixing portions 72 and 73 have a shape that engages with the sterilization device 10 and detachably fix (support) the sterilization device 10. The fixing portion 72 has electrodes T71 and T72, and the fixing portion 73 has electrodes T73 and T74.

[0012] The electrodes T71 and T72 are electrically connected to the electrodes T11 and T12 of the sterilization device 10 fixed to the fixing part 72. The electrodes T73 and T74 are electrically connected to the electrodes T21 and T22 of the sterilization device 10 fixed to the fixing part 73.

[0013] The support device 74 has an electric circuit 75, input terminals 741 and 742, and a concave groove 741, and supports the main body device 71. The concave groove 741 supports a substantially cylindrical cover 78.

[0014] The cover 78 has an upper opening 781 and a side opening 782. A fan 79 is provided in the side opening 782. The rotation speed of the blades (not shown) of the fan 79 is controlled by a fan control unit (not shown) which is a part of the electric circuit 75. When the blades of the fan 79 rotate, the air taken in from the side opening 782 is discharged from the upper opening 781.

[0015] In FIGS. 2 and 3, the power source 80 is a device that outputs electric power to the electric circuit 75, with one end connected to the input terminal 741 and the other end connected to the input terminal 742.

[0016] The power source 80 may output a predetermined DC voltage, a predetermined AC voltage, a predetermined DC current, or a predetermined AC current. Also, the output of the power source 80 may be a low-frequency voltage or current, or a high-frequency voltage or current. For example, a high frequency is a frequency higher than the output frequency of a so-called inverter circuit or the frequency of a commercial power supply (50 Hz or 60 Hz). In the present embodiment, the power source 80 is, for example, a commercial power supply (50 Hz or 60 Hz).

[0017] The electric circuit 75 outputs the power supplied to the input terminals 741 and 742 from the electrodes T71 to T74. In this embodiment, the electric circuit 75 has electric wirings 751 and 752. One end side of the electric wiring 751 is connected to the input terminal 741, and the other end side is connected to the electrodes T71 and T72. One end side of the electric wiring 752 is connected to the input terminal 742, and the other end side is connected to the electrodes T73 and T74.

[0018] The outputs of the electrodes T71 to T74 can be, for example, a first type output (for example, the output voltage of an inverter), or a second type output (for example, an output voltage other than that of an inverter).

[0019] Here, an inverter (the output or input of an inverter) is, for example, one having a frequency higher than the frequency of a commercial power supply (50 Hz or 60 Hz), and not being an inverter means, for example, one having a frequency equal to or lower than the frequency of a commercial power supply (50 Hz or 60 Hz). Preferably, an output (output voltage or output current) or input (input voltage or input current) of 100 Hz or more is the output or input of an inverter, and an output or input of less than 100 Hz is an output or input not being an inverter. More preferably, an output or input of 1000 Hz or more is the output or input of an inverter, and an output or input of less than 1000 Hz is an output or input not being an inverter.

[0020] For example, when it is desired to make the outputs of the electrodes T71 to T74 a first type output (for example, the output voltage of an inverter), an inverter circuit (not shown) may be provided in the electric circuit 75, and the input supplied to the input terminals 741 and 742 may be converted to a high frequency and output from the electrodes T71 to T74.

[0021] When it is desired to make the outputs of electrodes T71 to T74 the second type of output (for example, an output voltage other than an inverter), a circuit other than the inverter circuit may be provided in the electric circuit 75. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, since the electric circuit 75 has wirings 751 and 752, when a commercial power supply (50 Hz or 60 Hz) is connected to the input terminals 741 and 742, an output (an output voltage other than an inverter) having the same frequency as the frequency of the commercial power supply (50 Hz or 60 Hz) supplied to the input terminals 741 and 742 is output from the electrodes T71 to T74.

[0022] The first type of output and the second type of output are arbitrary. For example, the first type of output may be used when the output is less than a predetermined frequency, and the second type of output may be used when the output is greater than or equal to the predetermined frequency. Alternatively, the first type of output may be used when the output is a DC voltage, and the second type of output may be used when the output is an AC voltage. Or, an output with a voltage greater than a predetermined value may be used as the first type of output, and an output with a voltage less than the predetermined value may be used as the second type of output.

[0023] Also, the first type of output may be used when the current is greater than a predetermined value, and the second type of output may be used when the current is less than the predetermined value. Or, the first type of output may be used when the power is greater than a predetermined value, and the second type of output may be used when the power is less than the predetermined value.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 4, the main body 11 of the sterilization device 10 includes a housing 81, a cover member 85, a circuit board 83, a power supply circuit 100, and an ultraviolet radiation element D90.

[0025] The ultraviolet radiation element D90 is an element that emits ultraviolet radiation (an element that emits ultraviolet rays), and emits ultraviolet radiation using the supplied current. The ultraviolet radiation element D90 is, for example, an LED (light emitting diode). The output of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 includes ultraviolet radiation (ultraviolet rays) having a shorter wavelength than visible light.

[0026] The ultraviolet radiation of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 may be, for example, UV-A (wavelength 315 - 400 nm), UV-B (wavelength 280 - 315 nm), or UV-C (wavelength 100 - 280 nm). Preferably, the ultraviolet radiation of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 is UV-C (wavelength 100 - 280 nm). More preferably, the ultraviolet radiation of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 has a peak wavelength of 265 - 275 nm. The output of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 may contain only ultraviolet radiation, or may contain visible light or infrared light in addition to ultraviolet radiation.

[0027] The power supply circuit 100 is a circuit that generates a current to be supplied to the ultraviolet radiation element D90 using the power supplied to the electrodes T11 to T22. The circuit board 83 is mounted with the power supply circuit 100, the ultraviolet radiation element D90, and other components (not shown).

[0028] The housing 81 houses the circuit board 83 and the components mounted on the circuit board 83. The housing 81 is preferably made of a material that does not deteriorate due to ultraviolet radiation. For example, the housing 81 of the present embodiment is made of metal.

[0029] A cover member 85 is fixed to the opening portion of the housing 81 so as to face the ultraviolet radiation element D90. The cover member 85 is preferably made of a material that is less likely to attenuate the ultraviolet radiation of the ultraviolet radiation element D90, and a material that generates little heat or deformation even when ultraviolet radiation passes through. For example, the cover member 85 of the present embodiment is made of a resin that preferably transmits ultraviolet radiation.

[0030] One ends of the electrodes T11 to T22 are exposed from the housing 81, and the other ends are inserted into the housing 81 and electrically connected to the power supply circuit 100. The electrodes T11 to T22 have both a function as an engaging portion for engaging (fixing) the sterilization device 10 to the fixing portions 72, 73 (see FIG. 2) of the sterilization apparatus 1 and a function as electrode terminals.

[0031] The sterilization device 10 is fixed to the sterilization apparatus 1 by engaging the electrodes T11 to T22 with the fixing parts 72 and 73 of the sterilization apparatus 1. At this time, each of the electrodes T11 to T22 is connected to the electrodes T71 to T74, so that the sterilization device 10 and the sterilization apparatus 1 are electrically connected.

[0032] The configuration for engaging (fixing) the sterilization device 10 with the fixing parts 72 and 73 is arbitrary. For example, the electrodes T11 to T22 may be rotated and engaged like a fluorescent lamp, or a special mechanism (not shown) for engaging with the fixing parts 72 and 73 may be provided in the sterilization device 10 or the like.

[0033] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the power supply circuit 100 of the sterilization device 10 will be described in detail.

[0034] In FIG. 5, the sterilization device 10 includes electrodes T11 to T22, resistors R11 to R22, a power supply circuit 100, and an ultraviolet radiation element D90. The power supply circuit 100 includes a rectifier circuit D10, a circuit 20 other than the rectifier circuit D10, and terminals 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0035] The terminal 101 is connected to the first electrode T11 via the resistor R11 and to the second electrode T12 via the resistor R12. The terminal 102 is connected to the third electrode T21 via the resistor R21 and to the fourth electrode T22 via the resistor R22. One end of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 is connected to the terminal 103, and the other end of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 is connected to the terminal 104.

[0036] The rectifier circuit D10 includes diodes D11 to D14. The terminal 101 is connected to the anode of the diode D11 and the cathode of the diode D14, and the terminal 102 is connected to the anode of the diode D12 and the cathode of the diode D13.

[0037] The cathodes of the diodes D11 and D12 are connected to one end of the capacitor C1, the cathode of the diode D2, one end of the capacitor C2, and the terminal 103.

[0038] The anodes of diodes D13 and D14 are connected to the source of transistor Q2, the other end of capacitor C1, and the source of transistor Q1.

[0039] The anode of diode D2 is connected to the drain of transistor Q1 and one end of coil L1.

[0040] The drain of transistor Q2 is connected to the other end of coil L1, the other end of capacitor C2, and terminal 104. The gates of transistors Q1 and Q2 are connected to control unit 40.

[0041] Detection unit 30 detects inputs such as those supplied to first electrodes T11 to fourth electrodes T22, and supplies detection signal S6 to control unit 40. Control unit 40 generates control signals S1 and S2 using the supplied detection signal S6, and supplies control signals S1 and S2 to the gates of transistors Q1 and Q2.

[0042] Next, the operation of power supply circuit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0043] First, by turning on the power switch (not shown) of sterilization device 1, power is supplied from electric circuit 75 (see FIG. 3) to electrodes T71 to T74 (see FIG. 3). As described above, the outputs of electrodes T71 to T74 are, for example, a first type of output (for example, the output voltage of an inverter), or a second type of output (for example, an output voltage that is not an inverter).

[0044] Since electrodes T71 to T74 are connected to first electrodes T11 to fourth electrodes T22, the outputs of electrodes T71 to T74 are input to each of first electrodes T11 to fourth electrodes T22.

[0045] The inputs supplied to the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22 are rectified by the diodes D11 to D14, and the rectified voltages are output from the cathodes of the diodes D11 and D12 and the anodes of the diodes D13 and D14. Note that the capacitor C1 smoothes the output of the rectifier circuit D10.

[0046] The detection unit 30 detects the inputs supplied to the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22 and supplies a detection signal S6 to the control unit 40.

[0047] In order to detect the inputs supplied to the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22, for example, the voltages or currents of the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22 may be detected, the voltages or currents of the terminals 101 and 102 may be detected, or the voltages or currents of the diodes D11 to D14 may be detected. Also, in order to detect the inputs supplied to the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22, for example, the voltages or currents at positions on the electrode T11 to T22 side rather than the capacitor C1 may be detected.

[0048] Specifically, for example, the detection unit 30 may detect the voltage between the terminal 101 and the terminal 102, the voltage between the cathodes of the diodes D11 and D12 and the anodes of the diodes D13 and D14, the voltage between at least one of the first electrode T11 and the second electrode T12 and at least one of the third electrode T21 and the fourth electrode T22, or the voltage of other parts.

[0049] Also, the detection unit 30 may detect the current flowing through at least one of the terminals 101, 102 and the diodes D11 to D14, or the current flowing through other parts. Also, the detection unit 30 may detect the power of at least one of the terminals 101, the terminal 102, and the diodes D11 to D14.

[0050] The control unit 40 uses the detection signal S6 to determine whether the inputs supplied to the first electrodes T11 to the fourth electrodes T22 satisfy a predetermined condition. For example, in the present embodiment, a predetermined condition "the input is the voltage of an inverter (a voltage with a frequency of 100 Hz or more)" is stored in a storage unit (not shown) of the control unit 40.

[0051] In this case, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 40 determines that it is a first type input (for example, the input voltage of an inverter), and when the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the control unit 40 determines that it is a second type input (for example, an input voltage other than an inverter).

[0052] Note that the predetermined condition is arbitrary. The predetermined condition may be, for example, the frequency of the input voltage, the frequency of the input current, the value of the input voltage (for example, a voltage equal to or higher than a predetermined value), the value of the input current, the value of the input power (for example, power less than a predetermined value), or the ratio of the noise component included in the input.

[0053] The determination by the control unit 40 is not limited to determining whether it is an inverter. For example, the control unit 40 may determine a first type input (when the voltage is higher than a predetermined value) and a second type input (when the voltage is lower than a predetermined value) according to the voltage values of the first electrodes T11 to the fourth electrodes T22.

[0054] Further, the control unit 40 may use the first type input when the input is less than a predetermined frequency and the second type input when the input is equal to or higher than the predetermined frequency according to the frequencies of the first electrodes T11 to the fourth electrodes T22. Further, the control unit 40 may determine a first type input (when the voltage is direct current) and a second type input (when the voltage is alternating current). Further, the control unit 40 may determine a first type input (when the frequency is high (input of the inverter method in a fluorescent lamp)) and a second type input (when the frequency is low (input of the glow method or rapid method in a fluorescent lamp)) according to the frequencies of the first electrodes T11 to the fourth electrodes T22.

[0055] Further, the control unit 40 may determine a first type of input (when the current is greater than a predetermined value) and a second type of input (when the current is less than a predetermined value) according to the currents of the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22. Further, the control unit 40 may determine a first type of input (when the power is greater than a predetermined value) and a second type of input (when the power is less than a predetermined value) according to the powers of the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22.

[0056] Further, the control unit 40 may determine three or more types. For example, the detection unit 30 may determine a first type of input (when the voltage is greater than a first predetermined value), a second type of input (when the voltage is between the first predetermined value and the second predetermined value), and a third type of input (when the voltage is less than the second predetermined value) according to the voltage values of the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22.

[0057] Based on the determination of the first type of input (for example, the input voltage of the inverter), the second type of input (for example, the input voltage other than the inverter), etc., the control unit 40 generates control signals S1 and S2 and supplies the control signals S1 and S2 to the gates of the transistors Q1 and Q2.

[0058] Hereinafter, the operation when it is determined by the control unit 40 that it is a first type of input (for example, the input voltage of the inverter) and the operation when it is determined by the control unit 40 that it is a second type of input (for example, the input voltage other than the inverter) will be described.

[0059] When it is determined by the control unit 40 that it is a first type of input (for example, the input voltage of the inverter), the control unit 40 supplies a control signal S2 that turns on the transistor Q2 to the gate of the transistor Q2, and turns on the transistor Q2 (a state where a current flows between the drain and the source).

[0060] When the transistor Q2 is in the on state, the control unit 40 supplies a current to the ultraviolet radiation element D90 using a path including the transistor Q2 (hereinafter referred to as the first path).

[0061] Specifically, the current output from the cathodes of diodes D11 and D12 flows through a path passing through terminal 103, ultraviolet radiation element D90, terminal 104, the drain-source of transistor Q2, and the anodes of diodes D13 and D14. As a result, current flows through ultraviolet radiation element D90, and ultraviolet radiation element D90 emits ultraviolet radiation.

[0062] On the other hand, when the control unit 40 determines that it is a type 2 input (for example, an input voltage that is not an inverter), the control unit 40 supplies current to the ultraviolet radiation element D90 using a path including coil L1 (hereinafter referred to as the second path).

[0063] Specifically, the control unit 40 supplies a control signal S2 that turns off transistor Q2 to the gate of transistor Q2, turning transistor Q2 off (a state where no current flows between the drain and source).

[0064] Then, the control unit 40 supplies the control signal S1 to transistor Q1. For example, in the present embodiment, the control signal S1 is a signal that repeats on and off at a predetermined frequency, and transistor Q1 repeats the on state and the off state. Note that capacitor C2 performs a predetermined smoothing operation.

[0065] When transistor Q1 is in the on state, the current output from the cathodes of diodes D11 and D12 flows through a path passing through terminal 103, ultraviolet radiation element D90, terminal 104, coil L1, the drain-source of transistor Q1, and the anodes of diodes D13 and D14, current flows through ultraviolet radiation element D90, and ultraviolet radiation element D90 emits ultraviolet radiation.

[0066] When transistor Q1 is in the off state, the current flows through a path passing through one end of coil L1, diode D2, terminal 103, ultraviolet radiation element D90, terminal 104, and the other end of coil L1, current flows through ultraviolet radiation element D90, and ultraviolet radiation element D90 emits ultraviolet radiation.

[0067] In the sterilization device 10 of the first embodiment described above, since the detection unit 30 detects the input (for example, current or voltage) supplied to the terminals 101 and 102, it is possible to detect whether the input is of the first type (for example, the input voltage of the inverter) or the second type (for example, the input voltage other than the inverter).

[0068] Further, when the input detected by the detection unit 30 is of the first type, the control unit 40 controls the power supply circuit 100 to perform an operation suitable for the first-type input. When the input is of the second type, the control unit 40 controls the power supply circuit 100 to perform an operation suitable for the second-type input.

[0069] Therefore, in the sterilization device 10 of the first embodiment, an appropriate current is supplied from the power supply circuit 100 to the ultraviolet radiation element D90 whether the input is of the first type or the second type, and ultraviolet radiation using the ultraviolet radiation element D90 can be performed.

[0070] Since the sterilization device 1 of the first embodiment described above can detach the sterilization device 10, when the sterilization device 10 fails (for example, when the product life is reached), only the sterilization device 10 can be replaced with a new sterilization device 10.

[0071] Since the sterilization device 10 of the first embodiment described above can perform ultraviolet radiation whether the input is of the first type or the second type, it can be mounted on both the sterilization device 1 with an output of the first type and the sterilization device 1 with an output of the second type.

[0072] Therefore, if one sterilization device 10 of the first embodiment is prepared (purchased), even when the sterilization device of the sterilization device with an output of the first type fails, or when the sterilization device of the sterilization device with an output of the second type fails, the failed sterilization device can be replaced with the sterilization device 10 of the first embodiment, so that the inventory (sterilization device purchased in preparation for failure) can be reduced.

[0073] (Second Embodiment)

[0074] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the sterilization device of the second embodiment. In the following description, the same components as those shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0075] The sterilization device 10b of this embodiment has a cover member 86 instead of the cover member 85 of the sterilization device 10 shown in FIG. 4.

[0076] The cover member 86 has a base 861 and a through hole 862. The base 861 is made of a metal that does not transmit ultraviolet radiation, and the through hole 862 allows ultraviolet radiation to pass through.

[0077] The sterilization device 10b of the second embodiment described above has a base 861 made of a metal that does not transmit ultraviolet radiation and a through hole 862 that allows ultraviolet radiation to pass through. Since the sterilization device 10b has the base 861, it is possible to prevent an accident of accidentally touching the ultraviolet radiation element D90 and getting injured.

[0078] In addition, since the sterilization device 10b has the through hole 862, ultraviolet radiation can pass through the through hole 862. For this reason, ultraviolet radiation is not absorbed by a transparent object as in the case of passing through a transparent object such as glass or plastic, so that ultraviolet radiation can be efficiently performed.

[0079] (Third Embodiment)

[0080] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the sterilization device of the third embodiment, and FIG. 8 is another diagram for explaining the sterilization device of the third embodiment. In the following description, the same components as those shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0081] In FIGS. 7 and 8, the sterilization device 1b of this embodiment has a sterilization device 10, a main body device 71, a support device 74, a cover 78, a fan 79, a connecting portion 76, a louver 783, and screws 719 and 769.

[0082] The upper part 742 and the lower part 743 of the support device 74 are fixed with screws or the like (not shown). An upper opening 771 and a side opening 772 are provided in the upper part 742 of the support device 74. The lower part 743 is installed on the ground. An electric circuit 75 is provided inside the support device 74.

[0083] The cover 78 is substantially cylindrical. The cover 78 is provided parallel to the vertical direction and fixed to the support device 74. A louver 783 is fixed at a position vertically above the cover 78. The main body device 71 and the sterilization device 10 are provided inside the cover 78.

[0084] The connecting part 76 has a substantially cylindrical upper part 761 and a tapered lower part 762. The upper part 761 of the connecting part 76 is fixed to the main body device 71 by a screw 719, and the lower part 762 is fixed to the upper part 742 of the support device 74 by a screw 769. A fan 79 is fixed at a position vertically below the connecting part 76.

[0085] The blades of the fan 79 (not shown) rotate around a vertical rotation axis. The area of the rotating blades when viewed from vertically above is larger than the area of the cross-section orthogonal to the vertical direction of the sterilization device 10.

[0086] In the sterilization device 1b of the third embodiment having such a configuration, since the fan 79 is provided below the cover 78 in which the sterilization device 10 is housed, the air flowing in from the side opening 772 of the support device 74 by the fan 79 passes through the inside of the cover 78 and is discharged from the louver 783. For this reason, the air sterilized by the ultraviolet radiation of the sterilization device 10 when passing through the inside of the cover 78 is released from the louver 783.

[0087] In the sterilization device 1b of the third embodiment described above, since the sterilization device 10 is housed in the cover 78 and the louver 783, and the ultraviolet radiation element D90 (see FIG. 4) is not exposed to the outside, the ultraviolet radiation of the ultraviolet radiation element D90 does not leak from the cover 78 and the louver 783 either. For this reason, protective equipment for protecting the human body from ultraviolet radiation is not required when using the sterilization device 1b.

[0088] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0089] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the sterilization device according to the fourth embodiment. In the following description, the same components as those shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0090] In FIG. 9, the sterilization device 1c of the present embodiment is different from the sterilization device 1b shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 in that it has a first connector 91 and a second connector 92. In the present embodiment, the illustration of the components such as the fan 79, the connecting portion 76, and the louver 783 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is omitted.

[0091] In the sterilization device 1c of the present embodiment, the first connector 91 is fixed to the cover 78, and the second connector 92 is fixed to the main body device 71. Inside the first connector 91 and the second connector 92, electrical wirings 751 and 752 are provided.

[0092] The electrical wiring 751 has a first wiring 751a and a second wiring 751b. One end side of the first wiring 751a is connected to the input terminal 741. The other end side of the first wiring 751a is inserted into the first connector 91, and the end portion is exposed from the first connector 91.

[0093] One end side of the second wiring 751b is connected to the electrodes T71 and T72. The other end side of the second wiring 751b is inserted into the second connector 92, and the end portion is exposed from the second connector 92 so as to be electrically connected to the end portion of the other end side of the first wiring 751a.

[0094] Similarly, the electrical wiring 752 has a first wiring 752a and a second wiring 752b. One end side of the first wiring 752a is connected to the input terminal 742. The other end side of the first wiring 752a is inserted into the first connector 91, and the end portion is exposed from the first connector 91.

[0095] One end of the second wiring 752b is connected to the electrodes T73 and T74. The other end of the second wiring 752b is inserted into the second connector 92, and the end portion is exposed from the second connector 92 so as to be electrically connected to the end portion of the other end of the first wiring 752a.

[0096] Therefore, when the cover 78 is attached to the support device 74 (when the sterilization device 10 is not exposed from the cover 78), the first connector 91 and the second connector 92 are connected (engaged), and power can be supplied from the electric circuit 75 to the sterilization device 10.

[0097] On the other hand, when replacing the sterilization device 10, the cover 78 is removed and the sterilization device 10 is exposed (the state where the cover 78 is not attached to the support device 74). Therefore, the connection (engagement) between the first connector 91 fixed to the cover 78 and the second connector 92 fixed to the main body device 71 is released, the electric wirings 751 and 752 are disconnected, and power is no longer supplied from the electric circuit 75 to the sterilization device 10.

[0098] In the sterilization device 1c of the present embodiment, since the first connector 91 and the second connector 92 are provided, ultraviolet radiation is not performed in a state where the cover 78 is removed and the sterilization device 10 is exposed (the state where the cover 78 is not attached to the support device 74). Therefore, the risk of the human body being damaged by unintended ultraviolet radiation can be suppressed.

[0099] In the sterilization device 1c of the present embodiment, when the engagement between the first connector 91 and the second connector 92 is released, it is preferable to stop the driving of the fan 79.

[0100] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0101] Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining the sterilization device of the fifth embodiment. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, and redundant descriptions are omitted. In FIG. 10, the sterilization device 1d of the present embodiment is different from the sterilization device 1b shown in FIG. 8 in that the support device 74 has feet 744 and an opening 745 is provided in the lower portion 743 of the support device 74 instead of the side opening 772 shown in FIG. 8. In the present embodiment, some illustrations of the configuration shown in FIG. 8 are omitted.

[0102] In the sterilization device 1d of the present embodiment, since four feet 744 are provided in the lower portion 743 of the support device 74, an appropriate interval is provided between the lower portion 743 of the support device 74 and the floor surface, and air can be taken in from the opening 745.

[0103] In the present embodiment, when the inner diameter of the cover 78 having a substantially cylindrical shape (substantially circular tube shape) is d [m], the average velocity of the air in the cover 78 is V [m / s], the kinematic viscosity of the air is ν [m 2 / s], and the Reynolds number is Re, the following equation holds.

[0104] Re = V×d / ν ···(1)

[0105] When the air in the cover 78 is laminar flow (including the case where it is substantially laminar flow), when the Reynolds number at the transition from laminar flow to turbulent flow (including the case where it is substantially turbulent flow) is Re0, the following equation holds. Re0 > V×d / ν ···(2)

[0106] Therefore, the average velocity V [m / s] at which the air in the cover 78 becomes laminar flow is V < Re0×ν / d ···(3) becomes.

[0107] For example, in the present embodiment, the inner diameter d = 0.06 [m / s], the kinematic viscosity (kinematic viscosity of air at 20 degrees) ν = 1.512×10 -5 [m 2When the Reynolds number Re0 = 2300, the average velocity V of the air inside the cover 78 for laminar flow is V < 0.58 [m / s].

[0108] Also, in order to effectively sterilize the indoor space, it is preferable that the air inside the cover 78 is a laminar flow with a sufficiently high velocity. When the air inside the cover 78 is a laminar flow, replacement with external air (non-sterilized air) is preferably performed when exhausted from the louver 783, so the exhaust efficiency is improved. When the air inside the cover 78 is a turbulent flow, in the turbulent flow, the flow is stirred, so that the velocity of the overall flow is homogenized, and as a result, mixing (not replacement) with external air (non-sterilized air) progresses when exhausted from the louver 783, and the exhaust efficiency will decrease.

[0109] For example, in the present embodiment, in order to make the air velocity inside the cover 78 a sufficiently high laminar flow, a fan control unit (not shown), which is a part of the electric circuit 75, controls the rotational speed of the blades of the fan 79 so that the average velocity V of the air inside the cover 78 becomes 0.5 [m / s] (equal to or less than a predetermined value).

[0110] Also, in order to make the air velocity inside the cover 78 a sufficiently high laminar flow, the range of the average velocity V of the air inside the cover 78 is Re0×ν / d / 2 < V < Re0×ν / d ···(4) is also preferably set.

[0111] In the sterilization device 1d of the present embodiment described above, since the flow velocity of the air flowing inside the cover 78 is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the outside air (air) taken in from the opening 745 slowly passes over the ultraviolet radiation element D90, so reliable sterilization becomes possible.

[0112] In the sterilization device 1d of the present embodiment, since the flow velocity of the air flowing in the cover 78 is equal to or lower than a predetermined value, the outside air (air) taken in from the opening 745 flows in the cover 78 in a laminar flow, and is discharged from the louver 783 without substantially stagnating in the cover 78. Therefore, since the outside air is irradiated with ultraviolet rays substantially uniformly by the ultraviolet radiation element D90, a highly reliable sterilization effect can be obtained.

[0113] In the sterilization device 1d of the present embodiment, since the air flowing in the cover 78 is in a laminar flow, the exhaust efficiency from the louver 783 is higher than that in the case where the air flowing in the cover 78 is in a turbulent flow, and the clean air sterilized by the ultraviolet radiation element D90 can be diffused far away, and the indoor space can be effectively sterilized.

[0114] Further, in the sterilization device 1d of the present embodiment, since the cover 78 has a circular tube shape, it is easier to make the air flowing in the cover 78 into a laminar flow than in the case where it does not have a circular tube shape.

[0115] (Modification example)

[0116] The sterilization device 10 is preferably housed inside the machine (sterilization device 1) so that ultraviolet radiation does not leak outside the sterilization device 1. When the sterilization device 10 is provided inside the machine, it is preferable to provide an outlet for discharging the air sterilized by the sterilization device 10 to the outside of the machine.

[0117] When ultraviolet radiation leaks outside the sterilization device 1, it is preferable to take care that people do not enter when ultraviolet radiation is being performed, use equipment (such as goggles and gloves) to protect the body (eyes, skin, etc.) from ultraviolet radiation, or perform ultraviolet radiation with an intensity that does not damage the body.

[0118] The sterilization device of the present embodiment can be, for example, a machine that adjusts the temperature and humidity of air such as an air conditioner or air conditioning equipment, a machine installed in a factory or a hospital, an automobile, a ship, or the like.

[0119] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the electric circuit 75 has only the electric wirings 751 and 752, but is not limited thereto. The electric circuit 75 may be composed of, for example, only electric wirings (circuit patterns), may have an inverter circuit that generates the output voltage of the inverter, may have a circuit that generates a DC voltage, may have a circuit that generates a predetermined current, may have a circuit that generates the output of an inverter method, a glow method, or a rapid method in a fluorescent lamp, or may have a circuit that generates the frequencies, voltages, and currents of commercial power supplies in Japan and other countries.

[0120] In each of the above-described embodiments, the sterilization device 10 has four electrodes (the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22), but is not limited thereto. For example, the second electrode T12 and the fourth electrode T22 may be omitted, and only the first electrode T11 and the third electrode T21 may be used as electrodes. In each of the above-described embodiments, since there are four electrodes (the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22), the electrodes (the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22) can function as engaging portions.

[0121] In each of the above-described embodiments, the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22 have both the function as an electrode terminal and the function of engaging with the fixing portions 72 and 73 to fix the sterilization device 10 to the fixing portions 72 and 73, but are not limited thereto. For example, the first electrode T11 to the fourth electrode T22 may have only the function as an electrode terminal, and may be engaged with the fixing portions 72 and 73 using other mechanisms provided in the sterilization device 10.

[0122] In the above-described fourth embodiment, a configuration in which power supply to the sterilization device 10 stops when the engagement between the first connector 91 and the second connector 92 is released has been disclosed, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a sensor (not shown) for detecting that the cover 78 is not attached to the support device 74 may be provided in the main body device 71, and the control unit 40 (see FIG. 5) may stop supplying current to the ultraviolet radiation element D90 (see FIG. 5) according to the sensor output. Further, a sensor (not shown) for detecting that the cover 78 is not attached to the support device 74 may be provided in the support device 74, and the electric circuit 75 (see FIG. 3) may stop supplying power to the sterilization device 10 according to the sensor output.

[0123] In the above-described third embodiment, the side opening 772 is provided in the upper part 742 of the support device 74, and in the fifth embodiment, the opening 745 is provided in the lower part 743 of the support device 74, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, an opening (not shown) may be provided between the upper part 742 and the lower part 743 of the support device 74.

[0124] In the above-described fifth embodiment, the Reynolds number at which the transition from laminar flow to turbulent flow occurs is set to Re0 = 2300, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Depending on the internal state of the cover 78 and the like, the Reynolds number at which the transition from laminar flow to turbulent flow occurs may be, for example, about Re0 = 3000.

[0125] The configurations of the above-described embodiments can be combined with each other. Although various embodiments and modifications have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these contents. For example, combinations of the configurations of the above-described embodiments with each other, and other aspects conceivable within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention are also included in the scope of the present invention.

Industrial Applicability

[0126] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a sterilization device and a sterilization apparatus that can achieve suitable sterilization.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0127] 1 Sterilization apparatus 10 Sterilizing machine T11~T22 Electrodes D90 Ultraviolet radiation element 30 Detection unit 40 Control unit 71 Main body device 74 Support device 78 Cover 79 Fan

Claims

A sterilization device comprising an engagement part to which an input is supplied, a power supply circuit that generates current using the input supplied to the engagement part, and an ultraviolet radiation element that emits ultraviolet radiation using the current supplied from the power supply circuit, A main body device having a fixing part that can be engaged with the engagement part of the sterilization device, A cover provided outside the sterilization device and the main body device and covering the sterilization device and the main body device, A first device fixed to the cover, A second device fixed to the main body device and connectable to the first device, A sterilization device having an electric circuit that supplies an input to the engagement part of the sterilization device via the first device, the second device, and the fixing part, and a support device that supports the main body device and the cover, The power supply circuit includes A detection part that detects an input supplied from the engagement part, A storage part that stores conditions when the input supplied from the engagement part is the voltage of an inverter, and a control part that determines whether the input supplied from the engagement part is the voltage of an inverter using the detection result of the detection part, A rectifier circuit in which an input from the engagement part is supplied between the anode of the first rectifier diode and the cathode of the fourth rectifier diode, and between the anode of the second rectifier diode and the cathode of the third rectifier diode, current is output from the cathodes of the first rectifier diode and the second rectifier diode, and current is input to the anodes of the third rectifier diode and the fourth rectifier diode, A diode having one end electrically connected to the cathodes of the first rectifier diode and the second rectifier diode and the other end of the ultraviolet radiation element, A switching element having one end electrically connected to the anodes of the third rectifier diode and the fourth rectifier diode and performing a switching operation of repeating on and off states, An inductor having one end electrically connected to the other end of the diode and the other end of the switching element and the other end electrically connected to one end of the ultraviolet radiation element, One end is electrically connected to the one end of the switching element, the other end is electrically connected to the other end of the coil, and when the control unit determines that the input is the voltage of the inverter, it switches to a first state in which the one end and the other end are conductive, and when the control unit determines that the input is not the voltage of the inverter, it switches to a second state in which the one end and the other end are non-conductive, a switching unit; A first path having one end electrically connected to the other end of the switching unit and the other end electrically connected to one end of the ultraviolet radiation element; A second path having one end electrically connected to the other end of the coil and the other end connected to one end of the ultraviolet radiation element; When the control unit determines that the input is the voltage of the inverter and the switching unit is switched to the first state, one end side and the other end side of the switching unit are conductive, and a first current generated using the input supplied from the engaging unit flows through the first path; When the control unit determines that the input is not the voltage of the inverter and the switching unit is switched to the second state, one end side and the other end side of the switching unit become non-conductive, and a second current generated by the switching operation of the switching element flows through the second path; The ultraviolet radiation element performs ultraviolet radiation using the first current when the switching unit is switched to the first state, and performs ultraviolet radiation using the second current when the switching unit is switched to the second state; The electric circuit is a sterilization device that can supply power to the sterilization equipment when the first device and the second device are connected, and cannot supply power to the sterilization equipment when the first device and the second device are not connected.

2. The sterilization device according to claim 1, A tubular cover covering the sterilization equipment; A fan driven to exhaust air flowing in from one end side of the cover from the other end side; And a fan control unit for controlling the fan, The fan control unit is a sterilization device that controls the fan so that the air inside the cover becomes laminar flow.

3. The sterilization device according to claim 2, The fan control unit, When the inner diameter of the cover is d [m], the average velocity of the air in the cover is V [m / s], the kinematic viscosity of the air is ν [m2 / s], and the Reynolds number when the transition from laminar flow to turbulent flow occurs is Re0, The average speed V [m / s] inside the cover is V < Re0 × ν / d A sterilization device that controls the fan so as to satisfy the above condition.

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