Sterilization device

Abstract

To provide a comfortable space through appropriately conducting sterilization and moisturization of an objective space.SOLUTION: A sterilizer includes: a fine water generating part configured to change between a moisture absorption state of absorbing moisture into a conductive polymer film, and a moisture discharge state of discharging the moisture absorbed in the conductive polymer film as fine water with a particle diameter of 50 nanometer or less; an electrical discharge generating part configured to generate an electrical discharge between a first electrode and a second electrode through application of a voltage; a fan configured to drive such that the air is sucked in from the objective space via an intake port of the sterilizer, is sequentially circulated in the fine water generating part and the electrical discharge generating part and is discharged inside the sterilizer; a control part configured to control the fine water generating part, the electrical discharge generating part and the fan so as to discharge the bactericidal substance generated by an electrical discharge inside the sterilizer while switching between a state of stopping the electrical discharge in the moisture absorption state and a state of electrically discharging in the moisture discharge state; and a collection part capable of collecting the bactericidal substance and configured to be attached to a discharge port for discharging the air sterilized by the bactericidal substance inside the sterilizer toward the objective space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sterilization device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been proposed devices that use sterilizing substances such as ozone to perform sterilization and deodorization. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method in which ozone is sprayed from a spray nozzle toward a treatment space to sterilize the treatment space, and then the ozone in the treatment space is sucked in, decomposed by an ozone decomposition means, and then discharged. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes a method in which ozone generated by an ozone generator is blown into a room, and after a predetermined time has passed, the ozone is sucked in by a pump and decomposed by an ozone decomposition device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 3731257 [Patent Document 2] WO97 / 26925 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As described above, in sterilizing a target space such as a room, after sterilization is completed, the sterilizing substance must be collected and removed from the target space. Furthermore, with the recent increase in awareness of indoor environments, there is a demand not only for sterilization of the target space but also for providing a more comfortable space.

[0005] The main object of the present disclosure is to provide a comfortable space by appropriately sterilizing and moisturizing the target space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present disclosure has adopted the following means to achieve the above-mentioned main object.

[0007] The first sterilization device of the present disclosure is A sterilization device that sterilizes a target space, a fine water generating unit having a conductive polymer film, which changes between a moisture absorbing state in which moisture in the air is adsorbed to the conductive polymer film as the temperature decreases and a moisture releasing state in which the moisture adsorbed to the conductive polymer film is released as fine water particles having a particle size of 50 nanometers or less as the temperature increases; a discharge generating unit having a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from each other, and generating a discharge between the first electrode and the second electrode when a voltage is applied; A fan that draws in air from the target space through an intake port of the sterilizer, circulates the air through the fine water generating unit and the discharge generating unit, and discharges the air into the sterilizer; A control unit that controls the fine water generating unit, the discharge generating unit, and the fan so as to release the sterilizing substance generated by the discharge into the sterilizer while switching between the moisture absorbing state and the state where the discharge is stopped and the moisture releasing state and the state where the discharge is performed; a collection unit attached to an outlet that releases air sterilized by the sterilizing substance in the sterilization device into the target space, and that is capable of collecting the sterilizing substance; The gist of the project is to provide the following:

[0008] In the first sterilization device of the present disclosure, when in the moisture-releasing and discharge modes, fine water particles with a particle size of 50 nanometers or less are passed through a discharge generator. The fine water particles bond with ions generated from the air or water (fine water) and are released into the sterilization device. Furthermore, sterilizing substances such as ozone and hydrogen peroxide are generated by the discharge and released into the sterilization device. This allows air drawn into the sterilization device from the target space to be properly sterilized, the sterilizing substances to be collected by the collection unit, and clean air to be released into the target space from the outlet. Furthermore, because the fine water particles containing charged fine water are released into the target space, unlike a typical humidifier that releases water droplets, the target space can be properly moisturized while preventing excessive moisture buildup in the target space. Therefore, a comfortable space can be provided by properly sterilizing and moisturizing the target space.

[0009] In the first sterilization device of the present disclosure, the collection unit may have a conductive polymer membrane that can capture the sterilizing substance, thereby promoting the release of fine water particles from the outlet into the target space, thereby more appropriately moisturizing the target space.

[0010] The second sterilization device of the present disclosure is A sterilization device that sterilizes a target space, a fine water generating unit having a conductive polymer film, which changes between a moisture absorbing state in which moisture in the air is adsorbed to the conductive polymer film as the temperature decreases and a moisture releasing state in which the moisture adsorbed to the conductive polymer film is released as fine water particles having a particle size of 50 nanometers or less as the temperature increases; a discharge generating unit having a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from each other, and generating a discharge between the first electrode and the second electrode when a voltage is applied; A fan that draws in air from the target space through an intake port of the sterilizer, circulates the air through the fine water generating unit and the discharge generating unit, and discharges the air into the target space through an outlet of the sterilizer; A control unit that controls the fine water generating unit, the discharge generating unit, and the fan so as to release the sterilizing substance generated by the discharge into the target space while switching between the moisture absorbing state and the state where the discharge is stopped and the moisture releasing state and the state where the discharge is started. A collection unit capable of collecting the sterilizing substance when the air containing the sterilizing substance released into the target space is inhaled through the inlet or before it is inhaled through the inlet and passes through the fine water generating unit; The gist of the project is to provide the following:

[0011] As with the first sterilization device, the second sterilization device of the present disclosure can provide a comfortable space by appropriately sterilizing and moisturizing the target space.

[0012] In the second sterilization device of the present disclosure, the conductive polymer membrane of the fine water generating unit may also serve as the collection unit, which allows for a simpler configuration and more compact sterilization device compared to a system in which the fine water generating unit and the collection unit are provided separately.

[0013] The second sterilization device of the present disclosure may further include a humidifying unit that humidifies the air drawn from the target space through the intake port before reaching the fine water generating unit. This promotes the adsorption of moisture to the conductive polymer membrane of the fine water generating unit, thereby increasing the amount of fine water released, thereby enabling the target space to be more appropriately moisturized. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a sterilization device 10 of a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of the fine water generating cartridge 30. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the sterilization device 10. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a sterilization device 10B of a modified example. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the sterilization device 10B. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a sterilization device 110 of a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the sterilization device 110. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a sterilization device 110B of a modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the sterilization device 110B. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a sterilization device 110C of a modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the sterilization device 110C. [Figure 12]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a sterilization device 110D of a modified example. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation mode of the sterilization device 110D. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] [First embodiment] Next, a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a sterilization device 10 of the first embodiment, and Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a fine water generating cartridge 30. The sterilization device 10 comprises a device main body 12, a sterilization substance release unit 20 that releases a sterilization substance, and a control unit 60 that controls the entire device, and is placed in a space to be sterilized.

[0016] 1, the sterilizing substance emitting section 20 includes a duct 21 attached so as to penetrate the side wall of the device body 12, and a fine water generating cartridge 30, a fan 40, and a discharge element 50 arranged in the air passage of the duct 21. The duct 21 is a cylindrical member open at both ends, and has an inlet 21a that opens toward the outside of the device body 12 and an outlet 21b that opens within the device body 12. The fan 40, the fine water generating cartridge 30, and the discharge element 50 are arranged in this order in the duct 21 from the inlet 21a side.

[0017] 2, the fine water generating cartridge 30 comprises a cylindrical case 32 having an outer diameter that allows it to be placed in the duct 21, and a fine water generating element 34 provided in the case 32. The fine water generating element 34 comprises a substrate 34a and a conductive polymer film 34b formed on the surface of the substrate 34a.

[0018] The substrate 34a is formed of a conductive material such as a metal material such as a stainless steel or copper metal, a carbon material, or a conductive ceramic material. In this embodiment, a stainless steel metal foil containing aluminum is used. The micro-water generating element 34 is formed in a corrugated, honeycomb, or spiral shape so as to allow air to pass through and maximize the surface area of ​​the substrate 34a (conductive polymer film 34b). A current-carrying circuit 35 including a power source and a switch is connected to the substrate 34a. When the control unit 60 turns on the switch of the current-carrying circuit 35, the current is applied to the substrate 34a, and when the control unit 60 turns off the switch, the current is cut off and the current is cut off.

[0019] The conductive polymer film 34b is formed of a conductive polymer compound such as a thiophene-based conductive polymer. In this embodiment, the conductive polymer film 34b is formed of PEDOT / PSS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) / poly(styrenesulfonic acid)), a thiophene-based conductive polymer. PEDOT / PSS has a structure in which PEDOT is dispersed in PSS, which has sulfonic acid groups, acidic functional groups capable of hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, nanochannels, which are nanometer-sized flow paths of approximately 2 nanometers (nm), are formed at the interface between the PEDOT and PSS. Because many sulfonic acid groups are present within these nanochannels, moisture present on the surface of the conductive polymer film 34b migrates to the interior via the sulfonic acid groups within the nanochannel due to the concentration difference between the surface and the interior when the moisture content is high on the surface and low inside. This allows the conductive polymer film 34b to adsorb moisture. Furthermore, when moisture is adsorbed inside and the moisture content is low on the surface and high inside, moisture migrates to the surface via the sulfonic acid groups within the nanochannel due to the concentration difference between the surface and the interior. This causes moisture to be released from the conductive polymer film 34b as fine water droplets. Furthermore, when the temperature of the conductive polymer film 34b rises, moisture (fine water droplets) is released more quickly than when moisture transfer occurs due to a concentration difference alone. When the temperature of the conductive polymer film 34b drops, moisture is absorbed more quickly than when moisture transfer occurs due to a concentration difference alone. In this way, the fine water generating cartridge 30 (fine water generating element 34) changes to a hygroscopic state in which the conductive polymer film 34b absorbs moisture from the air as the temperature drops, and changes to a moisture-releasing state in which the absorbed moisture is released from the conductive polymer film 34b as the temperature rises. The thickness of the conductive polymer film 34b can be appropriately determined depending on the required amount of fine water droplets to be absorbed (released). For example, when the conductive polymer film 34b is formed to a thickness of 1 to 30 micrometers, it can absorb enough moisture to release fine water droplets within a few seconds to several tens of seconds.

[0020] Furthermore, the fine water generating cartridge 30 emits uncharged fine water particles (uncharged fine water particles) with a particle size of 50 nanometers or less, for example, 1 to 2 nanometers, from the conductive polymer membrane 34b of the fine water generating element 34. The reason for this particle size is thought to be that the nanochannel size is 2 nanometers or less, and therefore, due to an increase in temperature in the conductive polymer membrane, the water mobility within the nanochannel increases and the pressure increases, causing water to escape from the nanochannel. Furthermore, even if the water particles aggregate after escaping, their particle size remains within a range of 50 nanometers or less. A detailed description of the fine water generation by this fine water generating cartridge 30 (conductive polymer membrane 34b) is described in WO 2020 / 054100 and JP 2019-018195, both of which are owned by the present applicant, and therefore further detailed description is omitted.

[0021] The fan 40 is driven to rotate in a predetermined direction, thereby blowing air from the intake port 21a toward the exhaust port 21b inside the device body 12. This allows air drawn into the duct 21 to pass through the fine water generating cartridge 30 and the discharge element 50 in that order and then be sent into the device body 12. The fan 40 is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown), and is controlled by the control unit 60 using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control, voltage control, or the like. The fan 40 may be a propeller fan, a sirocco fan, or the like.

[0022] The discharge element 50 includes a first electrode (discharge electrode) 52 and a second electrode (counter electrode) 54 disposed opposite the first electrode 52, and is connected to an energization circuit 53 including a power source and a switch. When the control unit 60 turns on the switch of the energization circuit 53, a discharge voltage is applied between the first electrode 52 and the second electrode 54, generating a discharge in the discharge space between the electrodes and forming a plasma region. When the control unit 60 turns off the switch of the energization circuit 53, the discharge element 50 stops generating a discharge.

[0023] Because the discharge element 50 is disposed downstream of the fine water generating cartridge 30 in the duct 21, uncharged fine water (uncharged fine water particles) generated by the fine water generating cartridge 30 flows through the discharge space along with the air flowing through the duct 21. Therefore, when the discharge element 50 generates a discharge, ions are generated as the air and fine water flow through the discharge space (plasma region), and some of the fine water combines with the ions to become charged fine water (charged fine water particles). Furthermore, as the air and fine water flow through the discharge space, ozone is generated from oxygen, and hydrogen peroxide is generated from water and oxygen. That is, the discharge of the discharge element 50 generates ozone and hydrogen peroxide as the main sterilizing substances. Therefore, the sterilizing substance release unit 20 releases ozone and hydrogen peroxide as sterilizing substances, the charged fine water combined with ions, and the uncharged fine water not combined with ions, into the device main body 12 from the outlet 21b. By changing the voltage applied to the discharge element 50 from the energizing circuit 53, the discharge intensity of the discharge element 50 can be changed, and the ion concentration and ozone concentration (concentration of the sterilizing substance) can be adjusted.

[0024] The device main body 12 is a rectangular or cylindrical case, and as described above, the sterilizing substance discharge unit 20 is attached to its side wall. An outlet for discharging air from within the device main body 12 to the outside is formed on the side wall of the device main body 12 opposite the attachment location of the sterilizing substance discharge unit 20, and a removal filter 55 is attached to this outlet. The removal filter 55 is a filter for removing ozone and hydrogen peroxide as sterilizing substances, and may be, for example, a filter having a catalyst such as manganese dioxide or nickel oxide, or a filter having activated carbon. A dust collection filter 59 is attached within the device main body 12 to separate the space on the sterilizing substance discharge unit 20 side from the space on the removal filter 55 (exhaust port) side. A HEPA filter made of glass fiber or the like may be used as the dust collection filter 59.

[0025] The control unit 60 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU, and in addition to the CPU, is equipped with ROM, RAM, and input / output ports. Operation signals from a start switch 62 for starting the operation of the sterilization device 10 (sterilizing substance release unit 20), an operation signal from an air volume adjustment switch 64 for adjusting the air volume of the fan 40, and the like are input to the control unit 60 via the input port. In addition, the control unit 60 outputs drive signals to the motor that rotates the fan 40, drive signals to the switches of the current-carrying circuits 35 and 53, and the like via the output port.

[0026] Next, the operation (sterilization mode) of the sterilizer 10 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the operation mode of the sterilizer 10. In the first embodiment, the air in the target space is sterilized in an in-apparatus sterilization mode, which sterilizes within the apparatus main body 12 of the sterilizer 10. In the in-apparatus sterilization mode, the control unit 60 repeatedly performs moisture release control and moisture absorption control. In moisture release control (sterilizing substance production control), the control unit 60 turns on the fan 40, turns on the fine water generating cartridge 30, and turns on the discharge element 50. In moisture absorption control, the control unit 60 turns on the fan 40, turns off the fine water generating cartridge 30, and turns off the discharge element 50. The times for the moisture absorption control and moisture release control may be set appropriately depending on the moisture absorption capacity (moisture release capacity) of the fine water generating cartridge 30 and the size of the sterilizer 10 (apparatus main body 12). Although not particularly limited, for example, the moisture absorption time is set to about twice the moisture release time, and the moisture release time can be 30 seconds or 1 minute and the moisture absorption time can be 1 minute or 2 minutes.

[0027] In both moisture release control and moisture absorption control, air is drawn in from the target space through the intake port 21a of the duct 21 and discharged into the device body 12 from the exhaust port 21b (see arrows in FIG. 1). In moisture absorption control, the fine water generating cartridge 30 is turned off, which cuts off current to the substrate 34a, resulting in a non-energized state and a drop in the temperature of the conductive polymer film 34b, promoting moisture adsorption. On the other hand, in moisture release control, the fine water generating cartridge 30 is turned on, which turns on current to the substrate 34a, resulting in a rise in the temperature of the conductive polymer film 34b, promoting the discharge of fine water. Furthermore, since the discharge element 50 is turned on, as described above, ozone and hydrogen peroxide as sterilizing substances, charged fine water, and uncharged fine water are discharged into the device body 12 from the exhaust port 21b. Note that, for example, two sterilizers 10 may be placed in the target space, and moisture absorption control and moisture discharge control (sterilizing substance production control) may be performed at different times. In this way, the sterilizing substance and fine water can be continuously discharged from the two sterilizers 10. Of course, two or more sterilizers 10 may be arranged.

[0028] The sterilizer 10 sterilizes (disinfects) and deodorizes the air inside the device main body 12, i.e., the air inhaled from the target space (bacteria, viruses, etc. in the air), using sterilizing substances such as ozone and hydrogen peroxide released into the device main body 12. The sterilized air then passes through a dust collection filter 59 to remove dust and pollen, and then through a removal filter 55 to remove (capture and recover) sterilizing substances such as ozone and hydrogen peroxide before being released into the target space. This purifies the air in the target space. Furthermore, the charged fine water and uncharged fine water are released into the target space through the dust collection filter 59 and the removal filter 55, respectively, thereby moisturizing the target space. The inventors have also confirmed that the charged fine water has a sterilizing effect. Although the sterilizing effect of the charged fine water is lower than that of sterilizing substances such as ozone and hydrogen peroxide, it has almost no effect on the human body. Therefore, in addition to moisturizing the target space, it can also be expected to contribute to sterilization within the space. As described above, the fine water particles have a particle size of 50 nanometers or less, so unlike a typical humidifier, they do not excessively increase the amount of moisture in the target space, and the fine water can adequately moisturize the space. Operation of the sterilizer 10 in this in-device sterilization mode can be performed during times when no one is in the target space. Furthermore, since the sterilizer 10 removes ozone, hydrogen peroxide, and the like using the removal filter 55 before releasing the air into the target space, it can be operated during times when people are present in the target space. Furthermore, it is possible to maintain a sterilized space in the target space without affecting the human body.

[0029] The sterilization device 10 described above releases fine water with particle diameters of 50 nanometers or less (uncharged fine water), charged fine water obtained by bonding the fine water with ions, and sterilizing substances such as ozone and hydrogen peroxide into the device main body 12. A removal filter 55 is attached to the exhaust port of the device main body 12. This allows the air drawn in from the target space to be reliably sterilized within the device main body 12, the sterilizing substances to be captured by the removal filter 55, and then clean air to be released into the target space. Furthermore, by releasing charged fine water or uncharged fine water into the target space, the target space can be appropriately moisturized and sterilized.

[0030] In the first embodiment, a removal filter 55 for removing sterilizing substances is attached to the outlet of the device main body 12, but this is not limited to this. Fig. 4 is a structural diagram showing an outline of the structure of a modified sterilizer 10B. As shown in the figure, in the sterilizer 10B, a second fine water generating cartridge (second fine water generating unit) 56 is attached to the outlet of the device main body 12 instead of the removal filter 55, and a current supply circuit 57 to the second fine water generating cartridge 56 is provided. The sterilizer 10B has the same structure as the first embodiment except for being equipped with the second fine water generating cartridge 56 and the current supply circuit 57. Note that the second fine water generating cartridge 56 has the same structure as the fine water generating cartridge 30, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0031] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operating mode of the sterilizer 10B. The modified sterilizer 10B sterilizes the target space in the same in-device sterilization mode as the sterilizer 10, and also controls the second fine water generating cartridge 56. That is, in the in-device sterilization mode of the modified sterilizer 10B, the control unit 60 turns off the second fine water generating cartridge 56 in moisture release control that turns on the fine water generating cartridge 30. Therefore, while the fine water generating cartridge 30 is releasing moisture, the second fine water generating cartridge 56 can absorb moisture. Furthermore, the control unit 60 turns on the second fine water generating cartridge 56 in moisture absorption control that turns off the fine water generating cartridge 30. Therefore, while the fine water generating cartridge 30 is absorbing moisture, the second fine water generating cartridge 56 can release fine water into the target space. In this way, by setting the moisture absorption and moisture release timings of the fine water generating cartridge 30 and the second fine water generating cartridge 56 to be different from each other, fine water can be continuously generated. Therefore, the sterilization device 10B can continuously release fine water particles into the target space, thereby more appropriately moisturizing the target space.

[0032] Furthermore, in the modified sterilization device 10B, the conductive polymer membrane of the second fine water generating cartridge 56 can remove (capture) both ozone and hydrogen peroxide, which are the main sterilizing substances. Experiments by the inventors have shown that, although the removal effect is lower than that of the removal filter 55, a practical level of removal effect can still be achieved. Furthermore, a method for further improving the removal effect is, for example, to coat the second fine water generating cartridge 56 (conductive polymer membrane) with a mixture of activated carbon and manganese dioxide in a PEDOT / PSS dispersion. More specifically, the removal effect can be improved by mixing 0.1% to 25% by weight of activated carbon powder and 0.1% to 55% by weight of manganese dioxide powder in a PEDOT / PSS dispersion using a stirrer or bead mill, and then coating the cartridge. This allows the second fine water generating cartridge 56 to both release fine water and remove sterilizing substances.

[0033] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a sterilizer 110 of the second embodiment. The sterilizer 110 comprises a device main body 112, a sterilizing substance release unit 120, and a control unit 160, and is disposed in the target space to be sterilized. The sterilizing substance release unit 120 comprises a fine water generating cartridge 130, a fan 140, and a discharge element 150 within a duct 121. Each component is similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, air sterilized within the device main body 12 of the sterilizer 10 is released into the target space, whereas in the second embodiment, the air in the target space is sterilized by releasing a sterilizing substance into the target space. Note that, in the second embodiment, two or more sterilizers 10 may be disposed within the target space, and moisture absorption control and moisture release control may be performed at different times.

[0034] The device body 112 is a rectangular parallelepiped or cylindrical case, like the device body 12, and has a sterilizing substance discharge unit 120 attached to its side wall. Unlike the first embodiment, the sterilizing substance discharge unit 120 of the second embodiment has an intake port 121a that opens into the device body 112 and an exhaust port 121b that opens toward the outside of the device body 112. That is, unlike the first embodiment, the exhaust port 121b functions as an exhaust port for air to the target space.

[0035] Furthermore, device body 112 is provided with suction section 113 on the side wall opposite to the side wall on which sterilizing substance release section 120 is attached, for sucking air from the target space into device body 112. Suction section 113 is formed with first suction port 113a and second suction port 113b, and is equipped with removal filter 155 attached to second suction port 113b, and opening / closing damper 115 for selectively opening and closing first suction port 113a and second suction port 113b.

[0036] The removal filter 155 has the same configuration as the removal filter 55 of the first embodiment and is a filter that removes ozone and hydrogen peroxide as sterilizing substances. Unlike the second suction port 113b, the first suction port 113a does not have a filter attached thereto, but a dust collection filter may be attached thereto. The opening / closing damper 115 switches between a state in which the first suction port 113a is open and the second suction port 113b is closed (see the solid line in FIG. 6) and a state in which the first suction port 113a is closed and the second suction port 113b is open (see the dotted line in FIG. 6) by operating the opening / closing plate 116 driven by a motor (not shown).

[0037] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the operation mode of the sterilizer 110. The sterilizer 110 of the second embodiment has a release mode in which the sterilizing substance and fine water are mainly released from the sterilizing substance release unit 120 into the target space, and a recovery mode in which the sterilizing substance released into the target space is mainly recovered (captured and removed). In the release mode, moisture release control and moisture absorption control are repeatedly performed, similar to those of the first embodiment. In addition, in the moisture release control and moisture absorption control, the control unit 160 closes the open / close damper 115 on the removal filter 155 side, i.e., closes the second intake port 113b and opens the first intake port 113a. As a result, in both the moisture release control and the moisture absorption control, air is drawn into the device main body 112 from the target space via the first intake port 113a. Air drawn into the device body 112 passes through the inlet 121a, the fine water generating cartridge 130 in the sterilizing substance release unit 120, and the discharge element 150 in that order, and is then released from the outlet 121b to the outside of the device body 112, i.e., the target space. Therefore, in the release mode, ozone and hydrogen peroxide as sterilizing substances, charged fine water, and uncharged fine water are mainly released into the target space during moisture release control. Therefore, even in the second embodiment, the air in the target space can be purified by the sterilizing substance, and the target space can be appropriately moisturized by the fine water.

[0038] On the other hand, in the collection mode, the control unit 160 turns on the fan 140, turns off the fine water generating cartridge 130, and turns off the discharge element 150. The open / close damper 115 is also set to a state in which the removal filter 155 side is open, i.e., the first intake port 113a is closed and the second intake port 113b is open. This allows air to be drawn into the device body 112 from the target space through the removal filter 155 of the second intake port 113b. Therefore, the sterilizing substance released into the target space in the release mode can be collected (captured) and removed by the removal filter 155 in the collection mode. As described above, in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, a comfortable space can be provided by appropriately sterilizing and moisturizing the target space. Furthermore, by releasing the sterilizing substance into the target space, items placed in the target space can also be sterilized. In the second embodiment, since the sterilizing substance is released into the target space, sterilization must be performed during a time when no one is present in the target space. For example, if the target space is occupied during the day, the release mode can be performed first during a time when no one is present, such as at night, and then the recovery mode can be performed.

[0039] Modifications of the second embodiment will be described below. In each modification, differences in configuration from the sterilizer 110 will be mainly described, and descriptions of the same configurations will be omitted. Figure 8 is a structural diagram showing the outline of the configuration of a modified sterilizer 110B, and Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the operation mode of sterilizer 110B. In sterilizer 110B, suction port 121a of sterilizing substance release section 120 forms the suction port of device main body 112, and outlet 121b forms the outlet of device main body 112. It should be noted that sterilizer 110B may be configured without device main body 112 as a case.

[0040] The operation mode of Figure 9 has a release mode and a recovery mode similar to those of the sterilizer 110 (see Figure 7), except that the open / close damper 115 is not controlled. In the sterilizer 110B, recovery (collection) of the sterilizing substance is performed by the conductive polymer membrane of the fine water generating cartridge 130. Note that the removal of the sterilizing substance by the conductive polymer membrane has been explained in the modified example of the first embodiment, so explanation will be omitted. In the sterilizer 110B, by recovering the sterilizing substance using the fine water generating cartridge 130, the sterilizing substance can be recovered using a simpler configuration and made more compact than in a case where the fine water generating cartridge 130 and the sterilizing substance removal filter are provided separately.

[0041] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a modified sterilizer 110C, and FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing one example of the operation mode of sterilizer 110C. Similar to sterilizer 110B, sterilizer 110C has suction port 121a of sterilizing substance discharge section 120 which forms the suction port of device main body 112, and outlet 121b which forms the outlet of device main body 112. Sterilizer 110C also has dust collection filter 159 and humidification unit 170 in duct 121C of sterilizing substance discharge section 120.

[0042] Humidification unit 170 includes water storage section 171 that stores water at the bottom of duct 121C, absorbing member 172 such as a nonwoven fabric filter that draws water from water storage section 171 into duct 121C, and return piping 173 that returns a portion of the sterilizing substance produced by discharge element 150. Absorbing member 172 is located upstream of fan 140 and downstream of dust collection filter 159 within duct 121C. Return piping 173 extends from discharge element 150 to a position upstream of absorbing member 172 and has multiple outlets 173a that can release the sterilizing substance toward absorbing member 172. Dust collection filter 159 is a dust collection filter attached to intake port 121a of duct 121C. A relatively fine-mesh filter can be used as dust collection filter 159. This prevents dust and other particles from clogging absorbing member 172.

[0043] The operating mode of FIG. 11 includes a release mode and a collection mode similar to those of the sterilizer 110B (see FIG. 9). The sterilizer 110C, which includes a humidifying unit 170, can direct moisture absorbed from the water storage section 171 into the absorbing member 172 to the fine water generating cartridge 130 by circulating air driven by the fan 140. Therefore, moisture absorption control can promote moisture absorption into the fine water generating cartridge 130, thereby increasing the amount of fine water released in the moisture release control. Thus, by including the humidifying unit 170 (humidifying function), the sterilizer 110C can more appropriately moisturize the target space. Furthermore, a portion of the sterilizing substance generated by the discharge element 150 passes through the return pipe 173 and is released from the release port 173a toward the absorbing member 172. This sterilizes the absorbing member 172, thereby preventing mold and mildew from growing on the absorbing member 172. Note that a portion of the release port 173a may be configured to release the sterilizing substance toward the water storage section 171.

[0044] The sterilization apparatus 110C is not limited to having the humidification unit 170, and the sterilization apparatus 110 or the sterilization apparatus 10 (10B) of the first embodiment may also have the humidification unit 170.

[0045] Moreover, Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a modified sterilization apparatus 110D, and Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the operation mode of the sterilization apparatus 110D. Like the sterilization apparatus 110C, the sterilization apparatus 110D has a humidification function and is able to humidify using moisture in the air in the external space.

[0046] 12, the sterilization device 110D has a duct 121D extending outward from the device main body 112, and the device main body 112 is disposed on a wall W separating the target space from the outside space. The sterilization device 110D is capable of introducing air from the outside space (outside air) into part of the duct 121D, and is equipped with two opening / closing dampers 182, 184 that selectively switch between introducing outside air and drawing in air from the target space (inside air). The opening / closing damper 182 operates an opening / closing plate 183 by driving a motor (not shown), to switch between a state in which the intake port 121a is opened to block communication with the outside space (see solid line in FIG. 12) and a state in which the intake port 121a is closed to connect to the outside space (see dotted line in FIG. 12). Furthermore, the opening / closing damper 184 operates an opening / closing plate 185 by driving a motor (not shown), and switches between a state in which the exhaust port 121b is opened to block communication with the outside space (see the solid line in FIG. 12) and a state in which the exhaust port 121b is closed to communicate with the outside space (see the dotted line in FIG. 12). Note that the sterilization device 110D is not limited to the configuration and arrangement shown in FIG. 12 as long as it is possible to introduce air from the outside space into the duct 121D.

[0047] 13 has a release mode and a collection mode similar to those of the sterilizer 110B (see FIG. 9), and also controls the open / close dampers 182, 184. In moisture release control in the release mode, the control unit 160 controls the open / close dampers 182, 184 to open the intake port 121a and the exhaust port 121b. This creates an internal air circulation state in which air in the target space is circulated to the sterilizing substance release unit 120, allowing the sterilizing substance and fine water to be released into the target space.

[0048] During moisture absorption control in the release mode, the control unit 160 controls the open / close dampers 182, 184 to close the intake port 121a and the exhaust port 121b. This establishes an outdoor air circulation state in which air from the external space is circulated to the sterilizing substance release unit 120. In the outdoor air circulation state, for example, the fan 140 may be rotated in the opposite direction to circulate the outdoor air (see the dotted arrow in FIG. 12 ), or the fan 140 may be rotated in the same direction as in the internal air circulation state to circulate the outdoor air. When the humidity in the external space is higher than that of the target space, outdoor air circulation can be performed to promote moisture adsorption into the fine water generating cartridge 130. Therefore, the amount of fine water released from the fine water generating cartridge 130 can be increased by the moisture release control, thereby more appropriately moisturizing the target space. A humidity sensor for measuring humidity may be provided, and moisture absorption control may be performed in the outdoor air circulation state when the humidity in the external space is equal to or higher than a predetermined humidity or when the humidity in the external space is equal to or higher than the humidity in the target space. In other cases, moisture absorption control may be performed in the internal air circulation state.

[0049] In the collection mode, similar to the moisture release control in the release mode, the open / close dampers 182, 184 are controlled to open the intake port 121a and the exhaust port 121b. This allows the inside air to be circulated, and the sterilizing substance released into the target space can be appropriately collected (captured) and removed.

[0050] Here, the correspondence between the components of the embodiment and the components of the present disclosure will be clarified. The sterilization device 10 (110) of this embodiment corresponds to the "sterilization device" of the present disclosure, the fine water generating cartridge 30 (130) corresponds to the "fine water generating unit", the discharge element 50 (150) corresponds to the "discharge generating unit", the fan 40 (140) corresponds to the "fan", the control unit 60 (160) corresponds to the "control unit", and the removal filter 55 (155) corresponds to the "collection unit". The conductive polymer membrane of the second fine water generating cartridge 56 corresponds to the "collection unit". The conductive polymer membrane of the fine water generating cartridge 130 in Figures 8, 10, and 12 corresponds to the "collection unit". The humidification unit 170 corresponds to the "humidification unit".

[0051] The above describes the forms for implementing the present disclosure using embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments in any way, and it goes without saying that the present disclosure can be implemented in various forms within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0052] The present disclosure is applicable to the technical field of sterilizing a target space. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 10,10B,110,110B,110C,110D Sterilization device, 12,112 Device body, 20,120 Sterilization substance discharge part, 21,121,121C,121D Duct, 21a,121a Intake port, 21b,121b Outlet, 30,130 Fine water generation cartridge (fine water generation part), 32 Case, 34 Fine water generation element, 34a Base material, 34b Conductive polymer membrane, 35,135 Electrical circuit (electrical part), 40,140 Fan, 50,150 Discharge element, 51 First electrode, 52 Second electrode, 53 Electrical circuit, 55,155 Removal filter, 56 Second fine water generation cartridge, 57 Electrical circuit, 59,159 Dust collection filter, 60,160 Control part, 62 Start switch, 64 air volume adjustment switch, 113 intake section, 113a first intake port, 113b second intake port, 115 opening / closing damper, 116 switching plate, 170 humidification unit, 171 water storage section, 172 absorption member, 173 return pipe, 173a discharge port, 182, 184 opening / closing damper, 183, 185 switching plate, W wall.

Claims

1. A sterilization device that sterilizes a target space, a fine water generating unit having a conductive polymer film, which changes between a moisture absorbing state in which moisture in the air is adsorbed to the conductive polymer film as the temperature decreases and a moisture releasing state in which the moisture adsorbed to the conductive polymer film is released as uncharged fine water particles having a particle size of 50 nanometers or less as the temperature increases; a discharge generating unit having a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from each other, and generating a discharge between the first electrode and the second electrode when a voltage is applied; A fan that draws in air from the target space through the intake port of the sterilizer, passes it through the fine water generating unit and the discharge generating unit, and discharges it into the sterilizer; A control unit that controls the fine water generating unit, the discharge generating unit, and the fan so as to release charged fine water and a sterilizing substance generated by the discharge into the sterilizer while switching between the moisture absorption state and a state in which the discharge is stopped and the moisture release state and a state in which the discharge is started. a collection unit attached to a discharge port that discharges the air sterilized by the sterilizing substance and the charged fine water in the sterilization device into the target space together with the uncharged fine water and the charged fine water, and that is capable of collecting the sterilizing substance; and discharging the uncharged fine water, the charged fine water, and the air sterilized within the sterilizer into the target space.

2. The sterilization device according to claim 1, The collection section has a conductive polymer film, and the conductive polymer film is capable of collecting the sterilizing substance. Sterilizer.

3. A sterilization device that sterilizes a target space, a fine water generating unit having a conductive polymer film, which changes between a moisture absorbing state in which moisture in the air is adsorbed to the conductive polymer film as the temperature decreases and a moisture releasing state in which the moisture adsorbed to the conductive polymer film is released as uncharged fine water particles having a particle size of 50 nanometers or less as the temperature increases; a discharge generating unit having a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from each other, and generating a discharge between the first electrode and the second electrode when a voltage is applied; A fan that draws in air from the target space through an intake port of the sterilizer, passes it through the fine water generating unit and the discharge generating unit, and discharges it into the target space through an outlet of the sterilizer; A release control unit controls the fine water generating unit, the discharge generating unit, and the fan so that the sterilizing device releases the sterilizing substance and the charged fine water generated by the discharge into the target space together with the charged fine water while switching between the moisture absorption state and the state of stopping the discharge and the moisture release state and the state of discharging the discharge. A collection unit capable of collecting the sterilizing substance when the air containing the sterilizing substance released into the target space is inhaled through the inlet or before it is inhaled through the inlet and passes through the fine water generating unit; A recovery control unit that controls the fine water generation unit, the discharge generation unit, and the fan so as to recover the sterilizing substance released by the sterilization device into the target space in the moisture absorption state and the state in which discharge is stopped; A sterilization device comprising:

4. The sterilization device according to claim 3, The conductive polymer membrane of the fine water generating section also serves as the collection section. Sterilizer.

5. The sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The device includes a water storage unit that stores water, and a humidifier unit that humidifies the air that is sucked from the target space through the intake port and before it reaches the fine water generating unit. Sterilizer.

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