Steam generator

Abstract

To provide a steam generator capable of controlling a diffusion direction of generated steam, and diffusing the steam in a prescribed direction.SOLUTION: A steam generator comprises: a first storage space 11 which is formed of a first horizontal plate 22 having an air hole, and inner wall plates 23d, 23b extending in a vertical direction, for forming a sauna stone; an evaporation plate 17 installed below the horizontal plate 22; infrared heaters 16a-16c installed between the horizontal plate 22 and the evaporation plate 17; an air channel formed on a side part of the storage space 11 and in which air is circulated; and a Sirocco fan 18 installed below the evaporation plate 17. By ejecting water to the sauna stone which is heated so as to reach a high temperature by the infrared heaters 16a-16c, steam is generated, and then the steam generated by the sauna stone is diffused upward from the storage space 11, by an air flow released upward from the air channel by the Sirocco fan 18.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a steam generating device that generates steam by pouring water onto sauna stones heated to a high temperature. [Background technology]

[0002] A sauna device is disclosed that includes a sauna stove and a sprinkler unit installed above the sauna stove to supply water to the sauna stove, the sprinkler unit having a plurality of branch pipes each with a drain outlet and a water guide element having a connection unit to which the upper parts of the plurality of branch pipes are connected, and when the sauna device is viewed vertically, the drain outlets of the plurality of branch pipes are located at different positions within the range that overlaps with the sauna stove, and the horizontal distribution range of the plurality of branch pipes at the connection part with the connection unit is narrower than the horizontal distribution range of the drain outlets of the plurality of branch pipes (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3222639 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The sauna device disclosed in Patent Document 1 can spray water evenly onto the sauna stones while preventing water from splashing around the sauna stove. When water is sprayed onto the sauna stones, it instantly evaporates due to the high temperature of the sauna stones, generating a large amount of steam that fills the sauna room. In this sauna device, the generated steam diffuses in all directions around the sauna stove, but the direction of the steam diffusion cannot be controlled, making it impossible to diffuse the steam in a predetermined direction. Furthermore, the sauna stones, which have been cooled by the water and have a lowered temperature, are heated by a predetermined heating means, but it takes time for them to heat up again, making it difficult to quickly heat the sauna stones to a high temperature.

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a steam generator that can increase the diffusion power of generated steam and diffuse steam evenly throughout the sauna room. Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a steam generator that can quickly raise the temperature of sauna stones that have dropped in temperature. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The premise of the present invention to solve the above problem is a steam generating device that generates steam by pouring water onto sauna stones heated to a high temperature.

[0007] The feature of the present invention based on the above premise is that the steam generating device has a storage space of a predetermined volume formed by a horizontal plate having multiple air vents and an inner peripheral wall extending upward from the periphery of the horizontal plate, which stores multiple sauna stones; an evaporation plate installed below the horizontal plate to evaporate water that has passed through the storage space; a heat source installed between the horizontal plate and the evaporation plate to heat the sauna stones and the evaporation plate; an air flow path formed on the side of the storage space through which air flows; and a blower fan installed below the evaporation plate to generate an air current from below to above along the air flow path; and in the steam generating device, steam is generated by pouring water onto the sauna stones heated to a high temperature by the heat source, and the steam generated by the sauna stones is diffused upward from the storage space on the air current released upward from the air flow path by the blower fan.

[0008] In one example of the present invention, the steam generating device includes a water supply device having a water spray nozzle that sprays water from above the storage space toward the sauna stones stored in the storage space.

[0009] In another example of the present invention, a steam generating device includes an outer peripheral wall located radially outside the inner peripheral wall and extending in an up-down direction, and a steam flow path formed between the inner peripheral wall and the outer peripheral wall, extending in an up-down direction, through which steam generated in the evaporation plate flows; in the steam generating device, water that passes through the storage space is evaporated by the evaporation plate, and the steam generated in the evaporation plate flows through the steam flow path and is released upward from the steam flow path.

[0010] Another example of the present invention is a steam generating device that includes a plurality of outer air vents perforated in the outer peripheral wall facing the evaporation plate and a plurality of inner air vents perforated in the inner peripheral wall facing the evaporation plate, and in the steam generating device, air flowing in through the outer air vents enters the storage space through the inner air vents and becomes hot air through heat radiation from the heat source and convective heat radiation and infrared heat radiation from the sauna stones, and the hot air is then released upward from the storage space.

[0011] In another example of the present invention, a steam generating device has an evaporation plate heated to a high temperature by a heat source, and the sauna stones, which are covered with water to lower their temperature, are heated by heat radiation from the heat source, convective heat radiation from the evaporation plate, and infrared heat radiation.

[0012] In another example of the present invention, the evaporation plate is an iron plate having a thickness of 40 to 60 mm and has a planar area substantially the same as the planar area of ​​the accommodation space.

[0013] In another example of the present invention, the heat source is an infrared heater, and in the steam generating device, a plurality of infrared heaters are arranged so as to be vertically overlapped while being shifted horizontally.

[0014] In another example of the present invention, the ratio of the volume of the storage space for accommodating sauna stones is in the range of 50 to 70% of the total volume, which is the sum of the volume of the storage space for accommodating the heat source and evaporation plate and the volume of the storage space for accommodating the sauna stones. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the steam generating device of the present invention, water is poured onto sauna stones heated to a high temperature by a heat source, generating steam. The generated steam then diffuses upward from the storage space on the air currents released upward from the air flow path by the blower fan, thereby strengthening the diffusion of the generated steam and enhancing the loyly sensation. By utilizing the updrafts created by the blower fan, the steam can be diffused upward above the storage space containing the sauna stones (throughout the sauna room). Because the steam generating device can diffuse the generated steam upward from the storage space, the steam quickly diffuses throughout the sauna room, quickly filling the entire sauna room with steam, and the steam can heat the sauna room to a predetermined temperature. Even if the steam generating device sprays a large amount of water, even if some water does not evaporate on the sauna stones, the water passes through the storage space, falls onto the evaporation plate, and instantly evaporates there, converting all of the sprayed water into steam.

[0016] A steam generating device including a water supply device equipped with a sprinkler nozzle that sprays water from above the storage space onto the sauna stones contained in the storage space can automatically generate steam by spraying water from the sprinkler nozzle of the water supply device onto the sauna stones contained in the storage space.The generated steam can be carried on an ascending air current created by a blower fan, allowing the steam to quickly diffuse throughout the sauna room, quickly filling the entire sauna room with steam and heating the sauna room to a predetermined temperature.

[0017] The steam generating device includes an outer peripheral wall located radially outside the inner peripheral wall and extending in the vertical direction, and a steam flow path formed between the inner peripheral wall and the outer peripheral wall, extending in the vertical direction, through which steam generated in the evaporation plate flows. Water passing through the storage space is evaporated by the evaporation plate, and the steam generated in the evaporation plate flows through the steam flow path and is released upward from the steam flow path. By spraying a large amount of water, some of the water does not vaporize on the sauna stones, and this water passes through the storage space and falls onto the evaporation plate, where it is instantly vaporized. The steam generated in the evaporation plate passes through the steam flow path between the inner peripheral wall and the outer peripheral wall and is released upward from the steam flow path. This means that the steam generated in the evaporation plate can be diffused upward (throughout the sauna room) from the steam flow path, and the steam generated in the evaporation plate can quickly fill the entire sauna room, and the steam can heat the sauna room to a predetermined temperature.

[0018] This steam generating device includes a plurality of outer air vents perforated in the outer peripheral wall facing the evaporation plate and a plurality of inner air vents perforated in the inner peripheral wall facing the evaporation plate, and air flowing in through the outer air vents enters the storage space through the inner air vents and becomes hot air through heat radiation from the heat source and convective heat radiation and infrared heat radiation from the sauna stones, and this hot air is then released upward from the storage space.When water is not being sprayed on the sauna stones, the air that flows in through the outer air vents and enters the storage space through the inner air vents is heated by heat radiation from the hot air and convective heat radiation and infrared heat radiation (heat storage) from the sauna stones and becomes hot air, which rises and is released upward from the storage space, so that the sauna room filled with steam can be heated by the hot air and the temperature of the sauna room can be maintained at a predetermined high temperature by the hot air. The steam generator can quickly diffuse the hot air throughout the sauna room by carrying it on the rising air current created by the blower fan, quickly filling the entire sauna room with hot air, heating the sauna room to a predetermined temperature with that hot air, and providing an effective loyly sensation throughout the sauna room.

[0019] In a steam generating device, the evaporation plate is heated to a high temperature by a heat source, and the sauna stones, which have been covered with water to lower their temperature, are heated by heat radiation from the heat source, convective heat radiation from the evaporation plate, and infrared heat radiation.Since the evaporation plate is heated to a high temperature by heat radiation from the heat source installed between the bottom wall and the evaporation plate, even if there is water that does not vaporize on the sauna stones when a large amount of water is sprayed, that water will instantly vaporize on the evaporation plate heated to a high temperature, and steam will be generated on the evaporation plate.Therefore, by using the evaporation plate together with the sauna stones, a large amount of steam can be generated, which can quickly heat the sauna room to a specified temperature and provide an effective loyly sensation throughout the sauna room. In the steam generating device, the sauna stones are heated by heat radiation from the heat source and convection and infrared heat radiation (heat storage) from the evaporation plate. Therefore, the sauna stones, which have been cooled by being poured with water, can be quickly returned to a high temperature by heat radiation from the heat source and convection and infrared heat radiation from the evaporation plate. Steam can be generated in a short period of time by the sauna stones, which have been heated to a high temperature by heat radiation from the heat source and convection and infrared heat radiation from the evaporation plate.

[0020] In a steam generator, the evaporation plate is an iron plate with a thickness of 40 to 60 mm and a planar area approximately equal to the planar area of ​​the storage space. Because the evaporation plate is an iron plate with the thickness and a planar area approximately equal to the planar area of ​​the inner storage space, the evaporation plate (iron plate) has high thermal conductivity and can be quickly heated to a high temperature by a heat source. In the steam generator, the evaporation plate (iron plate) has a high heat storage effect, and once heated, the evaporation plate (iron plate) does not cool easily. Even if there is water that does not vaporize on the sauna stones, the water can be instantly vaporized on the evaporation plate, generating a large amount of steam.

[0021] A steam generator uses an infrared heater as its heat source, and multiple infrared heaters are arranged so that they are offset horizontally and overlap each other vertically.By arranging the infrared heaters vertically with minimal gaps, the heat radiated from the infrared heaters can be fully utilized, and the infrared heaters can evenly heat all of the sauna stones and the entire evaporation plate contained in the storage space, allowing the sauna stones and evaporation plate to be quickly heated to a high temperature.

[0022] In a steam generating device in which the volume ratio of the storage space for sauna stones is in the range of 50 to 70% of the total volume, which is the sum of the volume of the storage space for the heat source and evaporation plate and the volume of the storage space for sauna stones, because the volume ratio of the storage space for sauna stones is in this range, a large number of sauna stones can be stored in the storage space, a large number of sauna stones can be used to generate a large amount of steam, and a large amount of steam can be used to quickly heat the sauna room to a specified temperature. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of an example steam generating device. [Figure 2] Rear view of the steam generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a top view showing the second horizontal plate. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a top view showing the third horizontal plate. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a top view showing first to third infrared heaters (heat sources) and an evaporation plate. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a top view showing the first to fourth flanges. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the flow of hot air in the steam generating device. [Figure 12] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the flow of water vapor in the steam generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The steam generator according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, such as FIG. 1, which is a front view of a steam generator 10 as an example. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the steam generator 10, and FIG. 3 is a right side view of the steam generator 10. FIG. 4 is a left side view of the steam generator 10, and FIG. 5 is a top view of the steam generator 10. FIG. 6 is a top view of the first horizontal plate 22 (net), and FIG. 7 is a top view of the evaporation plate 17. FIG. 8 is a top view of the third horizontal plate 42 (fan suction plate). The sauna stones 14 are not shown in FIGS. 1 to 5. In FIGS. 1 to 4, the up-down direction (vertical direction) is indicated by arrow A, the front-to-back direction (horizontal direction) is indicated by arrow B, and the width direction (horizontal direction) is indicated by arrow C.

[0025] The steam generator 10 is installed in a sauna room (not shown) of a predetermined volume, and sprinkles water W (see Figure 12) on a plurality of sauna stones 14 (see Figures 11 and 12) housed in a first storage space 11 (storage space), which instantly evaporates to generate steam and fill the sauna room with the steam. The steam generator 10 comprises a first storage space 11 (storage space) of a predetermined volume formed at the top, a second storage space 12 (storage space) of a predetermined volume formed directly below the first storage space 11, and a third storage space 13 (storage space) of a predetermined volume formed directly below the second storage space 12.

[0026] The steam generating device 10 has a plurality of sauna stones 14 housed in a first storage space 11, an automatic water supply device 15 (water supply device) that sprays water W onto the sauna stones 14, a plurality of first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) housed in a second storage space 12, an evaporation plate 17 housed in the second storage space 12, a sirocco fan 18 (blower fan) housed in a third storage space 13, first to fourth steam flow paths 19a to 19d (steam flow paths), and an air flow path 20.

[0027] The first storage space 11 is formed (made) of a first horizontal plate 22 (horizontal plate) (fire grate) and first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d (inner peripheral walls). First to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d (outer peripheral walls) are disposed radially outward of the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d. As shown in FIG. 6, the first horizontal plate 22 is made of stainless steel expanded metal 21 (wire mesh) having a plurality of ventilation holes 25. Note that, in addition to the expanded metal 21, the first horizontal plate 22 may also be made of stainless steel lath (wire mesh), a perforated plate in which a plurality of ventilation holes 25 are drilled in a stainless steel plate, stainless steel grating, or the like.

[0028] The first horizontal plate 22 has a rectangular planar shape (top surface shape) and has front and rear end edges 26, 27 extending in the width direction and side edge portions 28, 29 extending in the front-rear direction. The front end edge 26 of the first horizontal plate 22 rests on a first flange 30a extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of a middle portion of the first inner wall plate 23a, and the rear end edge 26 rests on a third flange 30c extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of a middle portion of the third inner wall plate 23c, while one side edge 28 rests on a second flange 30b extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of a middle portion of the second inner wall plate 23b, and the other side edge 29 rests on a fourth flange 30d extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of a middle portion of the fourth inner wall plate.

[0029] The first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d are made of stainless steel plates having a predetermined thickness, and their side surfaces are formed into a quadrangle (rectangle) that is long in the vertical direction. Of the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d, the first inner wall plate 23a and the third inner wall plate 23c face each other in the front-to-rear direction, and the second inner wall plate 23b and the fourth inner wall plate 23d face each other in the width direction. The first inner wall plate 23a (front inner wall) extends vertically upward and downward from the front edge (periphery) of the first horizontal plate 22. The second inner wall plate 23b (side inner wall) extends vertically upward and downward from one side edge (periphery) of the first horizontal plate 22. The third inner wall plate 23c (rear inner wall) extends vertically upward and downward from the rear edge (periphery) of the first horizontal plate 22. The fourth inner wall plate 23d (side inner wall) extends from the other side edge (peripheral edge) of the first horizontal plate 22 upward and downward in the vertical direction.

[0030] The second inner wall plate 23b is disposed (welded) so as to be perpendicular to the first inner wall plate 23a, and the other side edge of the first inner wall plate 23a and one side edge of the second inner wall plate 23b are detachably connected by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The third inner wall plate 23c is disposed so as to be perpendicular to the second inner wall plate 23b, and the other side edge of the second inner wall plate 23b and one side edge of the third inner wall plate 23c are detachably connected by the predetermined fixing means.

[0031] The fourth inner wall plate 23d is disposed (welded) so as to be perpendicular to the third inner wall plate 23c, and the other side edge of the third inner wall plate 23c and one side edge of the fourth inner wall plate 23d are detachably connected by the predetermined fastening means. The first inner wall plate 23a is disposed so as to be perpendicular to the fourth inner wall plate 23d, and the other side edge of the fourth inner wall plate 23d and one side edge of the first inner wall plate 23a are detachably connected by the predetermined fastening means.

[0032] In the steam generator 10, a first storage space 11 (storage space) of a predetermined volume is defined by a first horizontal plate 22 and first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d. The first storage space 11 has a top opening 31 surrounded by the upper edges of the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d. A plurality of sauna stones 14 are stored inside the first storage space 11 through the top opening 31. When the sauna stones 14 are stored in the first storage space 11, gaps are formed between the sauna stones 14 through which hot air (air) and steam can flow.

[0033] The second storage space 12 (storage space) is formed (made) by a second horizontal plate 32 (non-perforated horizontal plate) (bottom wall) and first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d (inner peripheral walls) extending vertically downward from the front and rear edges and both side edges of the first horizontal plate 22. As shown in Fig. 7, the second horizontal plate 32 is made of an iron or stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The second horizontal plate 32 has a rectangular planar shape (top surface shape) and has front and rear edge portions 33, 34 extending in the width direction and both side edge portions 35, 36 extending in the front-rear direction.

[0034] The first inner wall plate 23 has its lower edge detachably connected to the upper surface of the front edge 33 of the second horizontal plate 32 by predetermined fastening means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The second inner wall plate 23b has its lower edge detachably connected to the upper surface of one side edge 35 of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fastening means. The third inner wall plate 23c has its lower edge detachably connected to the upper surface of the rear edge 34 of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fastening means. The fourth inner wall plate 23d has its lower edge detachably connected to the upper surface of the other side edge 36 of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fastening means.

[0035] A plurality of inner air vents 37 are drilled (formed) in the width direction in a lower portion of the first inner wall plate 23a (a lower portion of the first inner wall (inner circumferential wall) facing the evaporation plate 17) that forms the second storage space 12. A plurality of inner air vents 37 are drilled (formed) in the front-to-rear direction in a lower portion of the second inner wall plate 23b (a lower portion of the second inner wall (inner circumferential wall) facing the evaporation plate 17) that forms the second storage space 12. A plurality of inner air vents 37 are drilled (formed) in the width direction in a lower portion of the third inner wall plate 23c (a lower portion of the third inner wall (inner circumferential wall) facing the evaporation plate 17) that forms the second storage space 12. A plurality of inner air vents 37 are drilled (formed) in the front-to-rear direction in a lower portion of the fourth inner wall plate 23d (a lower portion of the fourth inner wall (inner circumferential wall) facing the evaporation plate 17) that forms the second storage space 12.

[0036] The first to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d are made from stainless steel plates having a predetermined thickness, and their side shapes are formed into quadrangles (rectangles) that are long in the vertical direction. The first outer wall plate 24a (front outer wall) is disposed radially outward (forward in the front-to-rear direction) of the first inner wall plate 23a at a predetermined distance and faces the first inner wall plate 23a in the front-to-rear direction. A first steam flow path 19a (steam flow path) extending in the vertical direction is formed between the first inner wall plate 23a and the first outer wall plate 24a.

[0037] A plurality of outer vent holes 39 are drilled (formed) in the width direction in the lower part of the first outer wall plate 24a (outer peripheral wall) (the lower part of the first outer wall (outer peripheral wall) facing the evaporation plate 17). The lower edge of the first outer wall plate 24a is detachably connected to the upper surface of the front edge portion 33 of the second horizontal plate 32 by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The first outer wall plate 24a is arranged so as to be perpendicular to the fourth outer wall plate 24d. The other side edge of the fourth outer wall plate 24d and one side edge of the first outer wall plate 24a are detachably connected by the predetermined fixing means.

[0038] The second outer wall plate 24b (side outer wall) is disposed radially outward (laterally in the width direction) of the second inner wall plate 23b at a predetermined distance and faces the second inner wall plate 23b in the width direction. A second steam flow path 19b (steam flow path) extending in the vertical direction is formed between the second inner wall plate 23b and the second outer wall plate 24b. A plurality of outer air vent holes 39 aligned in the front-rear direction are drilled (formed) in the lower part of the second outer wall plate 24b (outer peripheral wall) (the lower part of the second outer wall (outer peripheral wall) facing the evaporation plate 17). The lower edge of the second outer wall plate 24b is detachably connected to the upper surface of one side edge portion 35 of the second horizontal plate 32 by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The second outer wall plate 24b is disposed perpendicular to the first outer wall plate 24a. The other side edge of the first outer wall plate 24a and one side edge of the second outer wall plate 24b are detachably connected by the predetermined fixing means.

[0039] The third outer wall plate 24c (rear outer wall) is disposed radially outward (rearward in the front-rear direction) from the third inner wall plate 23c at a predetermined distance and faces the third inner wall plate 23c in the front-rear direction. A third steam flow path 19c (steam flow path) extending in the vertical direction is formed between the third inner wall plate 23c and the third outer wall plate 24c. A plurality of outer vent holes 39 are drilled (formed) in the lower part of the third outer wall plate 24c (outer peripheral wall) (the lower part of the third outer wall (outer peripheral wall) facing the evaporation plate 17). The lower edge of the third outer wall plate 24c is detachably connected to the upper surface of the rear edge portion 34 of the second horizontal plate 32 by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The third outer wall plate 24c is disposed perpendicular to the second outer wall plate 24b. The other side edge of the second outer wall plate 24b and one side edge of the third outer wall plate 24c are detachably connected by the predetermined fixing means.

[0040] The fourth outer wall plate 24d (side outer wall) is disposed radially outward (laterally in the width direction) of the fourth inner wall plate 23d at a predetermined distance and faces the fourth inner wall plate 23d in the width direction. A fourth steam flow path 19d (steam flow path) extending in the vertical direction is formed between the fourth inner wall plate 23d and the fourth outer wall plate 24d. A plurality of outer air vent holes 39 aligned in the front-rear direction are drilled (formed) in the lower part of the fourth outer wall plate 24d (outer peripheral wall) (the lower part of the fourth outer wall (outer peripheral wall) facing the evaporation plate 17). The lower edge of the fourth outer wall plate 24d is detachably connected to the upper surface of the other side edge portion 36 of the second horizontal plate 32 by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The fourth outer wall plate 24d is disposed perpendicular to the third outer wall plate 24c. The other side edge of the third outer wall plate 24c and one side edge of the fourth outer wall plate 24d are detachably connected by the predetermined fixing means.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 5, a cover plate 40 is disposed and fixed between the upper edge of the first inner wall plate 23a and the upper edge of the first outer wall plate 24a, between the upper edge of the second inner wall plate 23b and the upper edge of the second outer wall plate 24b, between the upper edge of the third inner wall plate 23c and the upper edge of the third outer wall plate 24c, and between the upper edge of the fourth inner wall plate 23d and the upper edge of the fourth outer wall plate 24d. The cover plate 40 is detachably connected to the upper edges of the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d and the upper edges of the first to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d by the predetermined fixing means. The cover plate 40 is perforated (formed) with a plurality of circular water vapor vent holes 41 aligned in the front-rear and width directions.

[0042] The third storage space 13 (storage space) is formed (made) by third to fifth horizontal plates 42 to 44 aligned in the vertical direction, first to fourth vertical rods 45a to 45d (first to fourth vertical supports) extending in the vertical direction, and first to fourth vertical plates 46a to 46d (first to fourth vertical covers). The first to fourth vertical rods 45a to 45d are stainless steel rods (square pipes) having a predetermined thickness. The first vertical rod 45a is located at the corner where the front edge 33 of the second horizontal plate 32 intersects with the other side edge 36, and is detachably connected to the underside of the corner of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fixing means.

[0043] The second vertical rod 45b is disposed at a corner where the front edge 33 and one side edge 35 of the second horizontal plate 32 intersect, and is detachably connected to the underside of the corner of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fastening means. The third vertical rod 45c is disposed at a corner where the rear edge 34 and one side edge 35 of the second horizontal plate 32 intersect, and is detachably connected to the underside of the corner of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fastening means. The fourth vertical rod 45d is disposed at a corner where the rear edge 34 and the other side edge 36 of the second horizontal plate 32 intersect, and is detachably connected to the underside of the corner of the second horizontal plate 32 by the predetermined fastening means.

[0044] The third horizontal plate 42 is made of a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The third horizontal plate 42 is disposed below (directly below) the second horizontal plate 32 and is spaced downward from the second horizontal plate 32 by a predetermined distance. An air passage gap 47 (air passage space) extending in the front-rear and width directions is formed between the second horizontal plate 32 and the third horizontal plate 42, through which air flows. A circular air intake opening 48 is perforated (formed) in the center of the third horizontal plate 42. The third horizontal plate 42 has a rectangular planar shape (top surface shape) and has front and rear edge portions 49, 50 extending in the width direction and side edge portions 51, 52 extending in the front-rear direction.

[0045] The third horizontal plate 42 has a corner where the front edge 49 (front edge) and one side edge 51 (one side edge) intersect, and a lower surface of the corner where the rear edge 50 (rear edge) and one side edge 51 (one side edge) intersect, which is detachably connected to the upper edge of the first vertical rod 45a (first vertical support) by the predetermined fastening means. The third horizontal plate 42 has a corner where the rear edge 50 (rear edge) and one side edge 51 (one side edge) intersect, and a lower surface of the corner where the rear edge 50 (rear edge) and one side edge 51 (one side edge) intersect, which is detachably connected to the upper edge of the second vertical rod 45b (second vertical support) by the predetermined fastening means.

[0046] The third horizontal plate 42 has a corner where the rear edge 50 (rear edge) and the other side edge 52 (other side edge) intersect, and a lower surface of the corner where the front edge 49 (front edge) and the other side edge 52 (other side edge) intersect, which is detachably connected to the upper edge of the third vertical rod 45c (third vertical support) by the predetermined fastening means. The third horizontal plate 42 has a corner where the front edge 49 (front edge) and the other side edge 52 (other side edge) intersect, which is detachably connected to the upper edge of the fourth vertical rod 45d (fourth vertical support) by the predetermined fastening means.

[0047] The fourth horizontal plate 43 is disposed below the third horizontal plate 42. The fourth horizontal plate is made of a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. A circular motor shaft insertion hole 53 is drilled (formed) in the center of the fourth horizontal plate 43. The fourth horizontal plate 43 has a rectangular planar shape (top surface shape) and has front and rear end edges 54, 55 extending in the width direction and side edges 56, 57 extending in the front and rear direction.

[0048] The fourth horizontal plate 43 is detachably connected to the middle of the first vertical rod 45a by the predetermined fastening means at a corner where the front edge 54 (front edge) and one side edge 56 (one side edge) intersect, and is detachably connected to the middle of the second vertical rod 45b by the predetermined fastening means at a corner where the rear edge 55 (rear edge) and one side edge 56 (one side edge) intersect.

[0049] The fourth horizontal plate 43 is detachably connected to the middle of the third vertical rod 45c by the predetermined fastening means at a corner where the rear edge 55 (rear edge) and the other side edge 57 (other side edge) intersect, and is detachably connected to the middle of the fourth vertical rod 45d by the predetermined fastening means at a corner where the front edge 54 (front edge) and the other side edge 57 (other side edge) intersect.

[0050] The fifth horizontal plate 44 is disposed below the fourth horizontal plate 43. The fifth horizontal plate 44 is made of a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The fifth horizontal plate 44 has a rectangular planar shape (top surface shape) and has front and rear edge portions 58, 59 extending in the width direction and side edge portions 60, 61 extending in the front and rear direction. The upper surface of the corner where the front edge portion 58 (front edge) and one side edge portion 60 (one side edge) of the fifth horizontal plate 44 intersect is detachably connected to the lower end portion (lower edge) of the first vertical rod 45a by the predetermined fastening means. The upper surface of the corner where the rear edge portion 59 (rear edge) and one side edge portion 60 (one side edge) intersect is detachably connected to the lower end portion (lower edge) of the second vertical rod 45b by the predetermined fastening means.

[0051] The fifth horizontal plate 44 has an upper surface of a corner where the rear edge 59 (rear edge) and the other side edge 61 (other side edge) intersect welded to the lower end (lower edge) of the third vertical rod 45c by the welding technique or detachably connected by the predetermined fastening means. The upper surface of a corner where the front edge 58 (front edge) and the other side edge 61 (other side edge) intersect is detachably connected to the lower end (lower edge) of the fourth vertical rod 45c by the predetermined fastening means.

[0052] The first vertical plate 46a is a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The first vertical plate 46a is rectangular and located below the first inner wall plate 23a (front inner wall) and disposed between the first vertical rod 45a and the second vertical rod 45b. The first vertical plate 46a is detachably connected to the first and second vertical rods 46a, 46b by the predetermined fastening means. The second vertical plate 46b is a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The second vertical plate 46b is rectangular and located below the second inner wall plate 23b (side inner wall) and disposed between the second vertical rod 45b and the third vertical rod 45c. The second vertical plate 46b is detachably connected to the second and third vertical rods 45b, 45c by the predetermined fastening means.

[0053] The third vertical plate 46c is a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The third vertical plate 46c is rectangular and located below the third inner wall plate 23c (rear inner wall) and disposed between the third vertical rod 45c and the fourth vertical rod 45d. The third vertical plate 46c is detachably connected to the third and fourth vertical rods 45c, 45d by the predetermined fastening means. The fourth vertical plate 46d is a stainless steel plate having a predetermined thickness. The fourth vertical plate 46d is rectangular and located below the fourth inner wall plate 23d (side inner wall) and disposed between the fourth vertical rod 45d and the first vertical rod 45a. The fourth vertical plate 46d is detachably connected to the first and fourth vertical rods 45a, 45d by the predetermined fastening means.

[0054] The fourth vertical plate 46d is shorter than the vertical dimensions of the first to third vertical plates 45a to 45c, and the upper end of the fourth vertical plate 46d abuts against the rear end edge of the fourth horizontal plate 43. An air flow opening 62 is formed above the fourth vertical plate 46d between the rear end edges of the third horizontal plate 42 and the fourth horizontal plate 43 (between the third horizontal plate 42 and the fourth horizontal plate 43 on the third inner wall plate 23c side), through which air flowing out from an outlet port 68 (described later) of the sirocco fan 18 passes.

[0055] The automatic water supply device 15 has a water supply pipe 63a, a water spray nozzle 63b, and an on-off valve (solenoid valve) (not shown). The automatic water supply device 15 has a timer function and opens and closes the on-off valve at predetermined time intervals to automatically supply water at the predetermined time intervals. A power source is connected to the on-off valve. The water supply pipe 63a is located in the third steam flow path 19c between the third inner wall plate 23c and the third outer wall plate 24c and extends in the vertical direction. The water supply pipe 63a is exposed to the outside from the cover plate 40 that extends between the upper edge of the third inner wall plate 23c and the upper edge of the third outer wall plate 24c, and extends upward from the cover plate 40. After extending forward in the front-to-rear direction, the water supply pipe 63a extends downward in the center of the first storage space 11.

[0056] The water supply pipe 63a has a base end connected to the third outer wall plate 24c and passing through the third outer wall plate 24c, with the water supply connection port 38 exposed on the outer surface of the third outer wall plate 24c. A water supply pipe (not shown) is detachably connected to the water supply connection port 38. A water sprinkler nozzle 63b is attached to the tip of the water supply pipe 63a. The water sprinkler nozzle 63b sprays water W radially so that water is sprayed over the entire first storage space 11. The water sprinkler nozzle 63b sprays water W from above the first storage space 11 toward the sauna stones 14 stored in the first storage space 11. When the on-off valve is opened, the water W passes through the water supply pipe 63a and is sprayed from the water sprinkler nozzle 63b onto the sauna stones 14.

[0057] In the steam generator 10, the ratio of the volume of the first storage space 11 (storage space) that houses the sauna stones 14 to the total volume, which is the sum of the volume of the second storage space 12 (storage space) that houses the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) and the evaporation plate 17, and the volume of the first storage space 11 that houses the sauna stones 14, is in the range of 50 to 70%. Because the volume ratio of the first storage space 11 that houses the sauna stones 14 is in this range, the steam generator 10 can store a large number of sauna stones 14 in the first storage space 11 and use the large number of sauna stones 14 to generate a large amount of steam. Furthermore, the large amount of steam can be used to quickly heat the sauna room to a predetermined temperature, providing an effective loyly sensation throughout the sauna room.

[0058] FIG. 9 is a top view showing the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) and the evaporation plate 17, and FIG. 10 is a top view showing the first to fourth flanges 30a to 30d. While FIG. 9 illustrates three first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, the number of infrared heaters is not limited, and four or more infrared heaters may be used. The first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) are housed in the second housing space 12 and installed (disposed) between the first horizontal plate 22 and the evaporation plate 17. The first horizontal plate 22 is located directly above the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, and the evaporation plate 17 is located directly below the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c. A power source is connected to the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c. The surface temperatures of the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c reach 500° C. or higher during operation. The first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c heat the sauna stones 14 and the evaporation plate 17 to a high temperature.

[0059] The first infrared heater 16a is U-shaped and both ends thereof are removably (detachably) connected by predetermined fastening means to the first inner wall plate 23a extending downward from the front edge of the first horizontal plate 22. The second infrared heater 16b is U-shaped and both ends thereof are removably (detachably) connected by predetermined fastening means to the first inner wall plate 23a extending downward from the front edge of the first horizontal plate 22. The third infrared heater 16c is U-shaped and both ends thereof are removably (detachably) connected by predetermined fastening means to the first inner wall plate 23a extending downward from the front edge of the first horizontal plate 22.

[0060] The second infrared heater 16b is disposed directly below the first infrared heater 16a, and the first infrared heater 16a and the second infrared heater 16b are arranged so as to overlap in the vertical direction with the second infrared heater 16b being offset in the width direction (horizontal direction) relative to the first infrared heater 16a. The third infrared heater 16c is disposed directly below the second infrared heater 16b, and the second infrared heater 16b and the third infrared heater 16c are arranged so as to overlap in the vertical direction with the third infrared heater 16c being offset in the width direction (horizontal direction) relative to the first infrared heater 16a and the second infrared heater 16b.

[0061] In the steam generating device 10, the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (multiple infrared heaters) are arranged so that they are stacked vertically while being shifted horizontally, and by arranging the infrared heaters 16a to 16c vertically with minimal gaps between them, the heat radiated from the infrared heaters 16a to 16c can be fully utilized, and the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c can evenly heat all of the sauna stones 14 and the entire evaporation plate 17 contained in the first storage space 11, allowing the sauna stones 14 and evaporation plate 17 to be quickly heated to a high temperature.

[0062] The evaporation plate 17 is accommodated in the second accommodation space 12 and is installed between the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c and the second horizontal plate 32. The evaporation plate 17 is placed on a base 64, and the base 64 is connected to the second horizontal plate 32 by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.), thereby connecting and fixing the evaporation plate 17 to the second horizontal plate 32. The evaporation plate 17 is an iron plate made of iron with excellent thermal conductivity and is shaped like a rectangular pillar. The evaporation plate 17 has a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction and has a planar area (top surface area) that is approximately the same as the planar area (top surface area) of the first and second accommodation spaces 11, 12.

[0063] The evaporation plate 17 is heated by the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c to store heat (preheat), and evaporates the water W that has passed (fallen) through the first storage space 11 to generate water vapor. The thickness of the evaporation plate 17 is in the range of 40 to 60 mm. If the thickness of the evaporation plate 17 is less than 40 mm, even if heat has been stored (preheated) by the heating of the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, it will take time for the temperature to rise to a predetermined level after being cooled by the water W that has passed (fallen) through the first storage space 11, and it may not be possible to vaporize the next water W that passes (falls) through the storage space 11.

[0064] Sirocco fan 18 (blower fan) includes a motor 65, an impeller 66, an intake port 67, and an exhaust port 68. Sirocco fan 18 is housed in third housing space 13 with impeller 66 facing up and intake port 67 facing upward, and is installed below evaporation plate 17 (third horizontal plate 42). The motor shaft of sirocco fan 18 is inserted into motor shaft insertion hole 53 of fourth horizontal plate 43. Rotation of the motor shaft rotates impeller 66 of sirocco fan 18, and air is drawn in through intake port 67 and then flows out through exhaust port 68. A power source is connected to motor 65 of sirocco fan 18.

[0065] The air flow path 20 is formed immediately behind the third outer wall plate 24c (rear outer wall) (to the side of the first and second storage spaces 11, 12). The air flow path 20 is formed (made) by a first inclined plate 69 that slopes upward from the rear end edge of the third horizontal plate 42 toward the outside in the radial direction, a second inclined plate 70 that slopes upward from the rear end edge of the fourth horizontal plate 43 toward the outside in the radial direction, and a fifth vertical plate 71 that is located radially outside the third outer wall plate 24c and extends in the vertical direction.

[0066] The upper edge of the first inclined plate 69 is detachably connected to the lower edge of the third outer wall plate 24c by predetermined fastening means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.), and the upper edge of the second inclined plate 70 is detachably connected to the lower edge of the fifth vertical plate 71 by the predetermined fastening means. The lower edge of the first inclined plate 69 is detachably connected to the rear edge 50 of the third horizontal plate 42 by the predetermined fastening means, and the lower edge of the second inclined plate 70 is detachably connected to the rear edge 55 of the fourth horizontal plate 43 by the predetermined fastening means.

[0067] Both side edge portions of the fifth vertical plate 71 are detachably connected to both side edge portions of the third outer wall plate 24c by predetermined fixing means (fixing bolts and nuts, rivets, etc.). The first and second inclined plates 69, 70 are connected to the air flow opening 62, and an air flow path 20 inclined upward is formed between the first inclined plate 69 and the second inclined plate 70, and an air flow path 20 extending in the vertical direction is formed between the third outer wall plate 24c and the fifth vertical plate 71.

[0068] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the flow of hot air in the steam generator 10, and FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the flow of water vapor in the steam generator 10. When a switch (not shown) of the steam generator 10 is turned on and the steam generator 10 starts up, electricity is supplied from a power source to the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources). The first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c are activated, and the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c radiate heat upward and downward in the second storage space 12. The infrared heaters 16a to 16c heat the sauna stones 14 housed in the first storage space 11 and the evaporation plate 17 housed in the second storage space 12. After a certain time has passed, electricity is supplied from the power source to the solenoid valve and the sirocco fan 18 (blower fan). Furthermore, until the sauna stones 14 and evaporation plate 17 are heated to a predetermined temperature, the valve mechanism of the solenoid valve is closed and water W is not sprayed from the spray nozzle 63b of the automatic water supply device 15.

[0069] As the sauna stones 14 are heated by the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, the sauna stones 14 gradually store heat (preheat), and after a predetermined time has passed, the temperature of the sauna stones 14 becomes high (for example, about 450 to 500°C).As the evaporation plate 17 is heated by the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, the evaporation plate 17 gradually stores heat (preheat), and after a predetermined time has passed, the temperature of the evaporation plate 17 becomes high (for example, about 450 to 500°C).

[0070] When the motor 65 of the sirocco fan 18 is started and the impeller 66 rotates, air flows from the air flow gap 47 (air flow space) formed between the second horizontal plate 32 and the third horizontal plate 42 toward the circular air intake opening 48 formed in the center of the third horizontal plate 42, as shown by the arrows in Figure 11. The air then flows through the air intake opening 48 into the suction port 67 of the impeller 66 of the sirocco fan 18 and out through the discharge port 68. The air that has flowed out through the discharge port 68 then flows into the air flow path 20 through the air flow opening 62 formed between the rear edge of the third horizontal plate 42 and the rear edge of the fourth horizontal plate 43, flows upward through the air flow path 20, and is then released from the air flow path 20 above the sauna room, creating an updraft in the sauna room.

[0071] When the sauna stones 14 are heated to a high temperature, an ascending air current is generated in the first storage space 11, and the air flows from the outer air vents 39 drilled (formed) in the first to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d into the first to fourth steam flow paths 19a to 19d (steam flow paths) between the first to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d (outer wall) and the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d (inner wall), and then flows into the lower part of the first storage space 11 through the inner air vents 37 drilled (formed) in the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d.

[0072] The air that flows into the lower part of the first storage space 11 is heated by the evaporation plate 17, then flows upward from the bottom to the top of the first storage space 11, passing through the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, where it is heated by the infrared heaters 16a to 16c. It also flows through the vents 25 in the first horizontal plate 22 and through the gaps between the sauna stones 14, where it is heated by the sauna stones 14 and becomes hot air. The hot air is released into the sauna room from the top opening 31 of the first storage space 11, and flows upward in the sauna room on the updraft of air released above the sauna room from the air flow path 20 by the sirocco fan 18, where it is released (dissipated) evenly throughout the sauna room. The sauna room is heated by the hot air released from the top opening 31 of the first storage space 11.

[0073] When the automatic water supply device 15 is not spraying water W onto the sauna stones 14, the steam generating device 10 causes the air that flows in through the outer air vent 39 and enters the first storage space 11 through the inner air vent 37 to be heated by the heat radiation from the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c, the convection heat radiation and infrared heat radiation (heat storage) of the sauna stones 14, and the convection heat radiation and infrared heat radiation (heat storage) of the evaporation plate 17, turning it into hot air (hot air).The hot air then rises and is released upward from the top opening 31 of the first storage space 11, and the hot air is carried on the ascending air current created by the sirocco fan 18 (blower fan), allowing the hot air to be quickly diffused throughout the entire sauna room. The steam generating device 10 can quickly dissipate (fill) hot air (hot wind) throughout the sauna room, heating the sauna room to a predetermined temperature with that hot air, which has a stirring effect that reduces the temperature difference between high and low temperatures in the sauna room, and can also maintain the temperature of the sauna room at a predetermined high temperature with that hot air.

[0074] When the sauna stones 14 are heated to a high temperature and the timer function of the automatic water supply device 15 is activated and a predetermined time has elapsed, the on-off valve of the automatic water supply device 15 opens, and water W is sprayed (poured) onto the sauna stones 14 from the water spray nozzles 63b toward the top opening 31 of the first storage space 11. The water W sprayed onto the sauna stones 14 is instantly vaporized by the hot sauna stones 14 and becomes steam. The steam generated by the sauna stones 14 is released into the sauna room from the top opening 31 of the first storage space 11 and is carried by the rising air currents released upward from the air flow path 20 by the sirocco fan 18 (blower fan), spreading throughout the sauna room and filling it. After a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of water spraying, the on-off valve closes and the water spraying from the water spray nozzles 63b stops.

[0075] If water W is generated by the sauna stones 14 while it is being sprayed from the spray nozzles 63b and does not evaporate, the water passes through the gaps between the sauna stones 14 and the ventilation holes 25 in the first horizontal plate 22, and falls onto the upper surface of the evaporation plate 17. The water W that falls onto the upper surface of the evaporation plate 17 is instantly vaporized by the evaporation plate 17, which has been heated to a high temperature, and turns into steam (vapor). The water vapor generated by the evaporation plate 17 passes through the inner air vent 37 and flows into the first to fourth water vapor flow paths 19a to 19d (water vapor flow paths) formed between the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d (inner peripheral walls) and the first to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d (outer peripheral walls), then flows from below to above the first to fourth water vapor flow paths 19a to 19d and is released toward the sauna room through the water vapor vent 41 perforated (formed) in the cover plate 40, and then rides on the rising air currents created by the sirocco fan 18 (blower fan) and diffuses throughout the entire sauna room.

[0076] The steam generating device 10 sprays (pours) water W from the spray nozzles 63b of the automatic water supply device 15 onto the sauna stones 14 that have been heated to high temperatures by the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources), causing the water W to evaporate on the sauna stones 14, generating water vapor (steam).The generated water vapor then diffuses upward from the first storage space 11 (storage space) on the rising air current released upward from the air flow path 20 by the sirocco fan 18 (blow-in fan).This strengthens the diffusion power of the generated water vapor and increases the feeling of loyly.By utilizing the rising air current created by the sirocco fan 18 (blow-in fan), the water vapor can be diffused above the first storage space 11 (storage space) that contains the sauna stones 14 (throughout the sauna room).

[0077] The steam generating device 10 can diffuse the generated water vapor (steam) from the first storage space 11 (storage space) to above the sauna room (the entire sauna room), so that the water vapor can quickly diffuse throughout the entire sauna room and quickly fill the entire sauna room with water vapor, allowing the sauna room to be heated to a predetermined temperature and providing an effective loyly sensation throughout the entire sauna room.

[0078] In the steam generator 10, the evaporation plate 17 is an iron plate with a thickness of 40 to 60 mm and has a planar area substantially equal to that of the first storage space 11 (storage space). Therefore, the evaporation plate 17 (iron plate) has high thermal conductivity, and the evaporation plate 17 (iron plate) can be quickly heated to a high temperature by the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources). Even if a large amount of water W is sprayed in the steam generator 10 and some of the water W does not vaporize on the sauna stones 14, the water W passes through the first storage space 11 and falls onto the evaporation plate 17, where it is instantly vaporized. Therefore, all of the water W sprayed from the sprinkler nozzles 63b of the automatic water supply device 15 can be converted into steam.

[0079] The steam generating device 10 sprays a large amount of water W from the automatic water supply device 15, so that some of the water W does not evaporate on the sauna stones 14. This water W passes through the first storage space 11 (storage space) and falls onto the evaporation plate 17, where it is instantly evaporated. The water vapor generated on the evaporation plate 17 passes through the first to fourth steam flow paths 19a to 19d (steam flow paths) between the first to fourth inner wall plates 23a to 23d (inner walls) and the first to fourth outer wall plates 24a to 24d (outer walls) and is released upward from these steam flow paths 19a to 19d. This means that the water vapor generated on the evaporation plate 17 can be diffused from these steam flow paths 19a to 19d to the top of the sauna room (the entire sauna room). This means that the water vapor generated on the evaporation plate 17 can quickly fill the entire sauna room, and the sauna room can be heated to a predetermined temperature by this water vapor.

[0080] In the steam generating device 10, the sauna stones 14 are heated by heat radiation from the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) and heat storage (preheating) of the evaporation plate 17. Therefore, the sauna stones 14, whose temperature has dropped when they are covered with water W, can be quickly returned to a high temperature by heat radiation from the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) and convection heat radiation and infrared heat radiation (heat storage) of the evaporation plate 17. Steam (vapor) can be generated in a short cycle by the sauna stones 14 that have been heated to a high temperature by heat radiation from the first to third infrared heaters 16a to 16c (heat sources) and convection heat radiation and infrared heat radiation (heat storage) of the evaporation plate 17. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 10 Steam Generator 11 First Storage Space (Storage Space) 12 Second Storage Space (Storage Space) 13 Third Storage Space (Storage Space) 14 sauna stones 15 Automatic water supply device (water supply device) 16a-16c 1st to 3rd infrared heaters (heat source) 17 Evaporation plate 18 Sirocco fan (blower fan) 19a~19d 1st~4th steam flow path (steam flow path) 20 Air flow path 21 Expanded metal (wire mesh) 22 First horizontal plate (horizontal plate) 23a to 23d 1st to 4th inner wall plates (inner peripheral wall) 24a-24d 1st to 4th outer wall plates (peripheral wall) 25 ventilation holes 26 Front edge 27 Trailing edge 28 Side edge 29 Side edge 30a~30c 1st~4th flanges 31 Top opening 32 Second horizontal plate (bottom wall) 33 Front edge 34 Trailing edge 35 Side edge 36 Side edge 37 Inner ventilation hole 38 Water connection port 39 Outer vent 40 Lid Plate 41 Water vapor vent 42 Third horizontal plate 43 Fourth horizontal plate 44 5th horizontal plate 45a~45d 1st~4th vertical rods 46a~46d 1st~4th vertical plates 47 Airflow gap (airflow space) 48 Intake opening 49 Front edge 50 Trailing edge 51 Side edge 52 Side edge 53 Motor shaft insertion hole 54 Front edge 55 Trailing edge 56 Side edge 57 Side edge 58 Front edge 59 Trailing edge 60 Side edge 61 Side edge 62 Air vent opening 63a Piping 63b Watering nozzle 64 Pedestal 65 motor 66 Impeller 67 Intake port 68 Discharge port 69 First Inclined Plate 70 Second inclined plate 71 5th vertical plate W water

Claims

1. In a steam generator, water is poured onto sauna stones heated to a high temperature to generate steam. The steam generating device has a storage space of a predetermined volume formed by a horizontal plate having a plurality of air vents and an inner peripheral wall extending upward from the periphery of the horizontal plate in the vertical direction to store a plurality of sauna stones, an evaporation plate installed below the horizontal plate to evaporate water that has passed through the storage space, a heat source installed between the horizontal plate and the evaporation plate to heat the sauna stones and the evaporation plate, an air flow path formed on the side of the storage space through which air flows, and a blower fan installed below the evaporation plate to generate an air current from below to above along the air flow path, In the steam generating device, steam is generated by pouring water onto the sauna stones that have been heated to a high temperature by the heat source, and the steam generated by the sauna stones is carried upward from the storage space by the air current released upward from the air flow path by the blower fan.

2. 2. The steam generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a water supply device provided with a water spray nozzle that sprays water from above the storage space toward the sauna stones stored in the storage space.

3. 3. The steam generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the steam generating device includes an outer peripheral wall located radially outside the inner peripheral wall and extending in the vertical direction, and a steam flow path formed between the inner peripheral wall and the outer peripheral wall, extending in the vertical direction, through which steam generated in the evaporation plate flows, and in the steam generating device, water that has passed through the storage space is evaporated by the evaporation plate, and the steam generated in the evaporation plate flows through the steam flow path and is released upward from the steam flow path.

4. The steam generating device includes a plurality of outer air vents perforated in the outer peripheral wall facing the evaporation plate and a plurality of inner air vents perforated in the inner peripheral wall facing the evaporation plate, and in the steam generating device, air flowing in from the outer air vents enters the storage space through the inner air vents and becomes hot air through heat radiation from the heat source and convective heat radiation and infrared heat radiation from the sauna stones, and the hot air is released upward from the storage space.

5. The steam generating device is described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the evaporation plate is heated to a high temperature by the heat source, and the sauna stones, whose temperature has been reduced by being covered with water, are heated by heat radiation from the heat source, convective heat radiation from the evaporation plate, and infrared heat radiation.

6. 6. The steam generating device according to claim 5, wherein the evaporation plate is an iron plate having a thickness of 40 to 60 mm and a planar area substantially equal to the planar area of ​​the accommodation space.

7. 7. A steam generating apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the heat source is an infrared heater, and in the steam generating apparatus, a plurality of the infrared heaters are arranged so that they are stacked vertically while being shifted horizontally.

8. A steam generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the ratio of the volume of the storage space for accommodating the sauna stones is in the range of 50 to 70% of the total volume, which is the sum of the volume of the storage space for accommodating the heat source and the evaporation plate and the volume of the storage space for accommodating the sauna stones.

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