Electrolytic water generation system, electrolytic water generation apparatus, and electrolytic water generation method

Abstract

To provide a highly convenient electrolyzed water generation device and generation method.SOLUTION: There is provided an electrolyzed water generation device 4 including: a connecting part that detachably connects a diaphragmless electrolytic cell 3 equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes; and an electrolysis control unit 49 that controls an electrolysis time for supplying electrolysis power to the pair of electrolysis electrodes 33 to electrolyze water to be electrolyzed stored in advance in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell, to an actual electrolysis time of the selected electrolyzed water. For example, a plurality of types of electrolyzed water include slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water each having a different effective chlorine concentration. Further, for example, the plurality of types of electrolyzed water include at least two of weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water, slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water, and electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water, each having a different pH value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to Electrolyzed water generation system, an electrolyzed water generator and an electrolyzed water generation method.

Background Art

[0002] Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, "New Normal (new lifestyle)" is strongly demanded in various places to create a safe and clean environment. For example, sterilization, disinfection, etc. are frequently carried out as daily operations. Electrolyzed water such as hypochlorous acid water is known as an effective means for sterilization, disinfection, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a batch-type generation device that electrolyzes pre-stored electrolyzable water in an electrolytic cell to generate electrolyzed water. By adopting the batch type, a device for generating electrolyzable water becomes unnecessary, and the size of the generation device can be reduced compared to the case of adopting a continuous type that electrolyzes flowing electrolyzable water.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, recently, the demand for electrolyzed water generators has been increasing, and a more convenient electrolyzed water generator is desired. For example, in conventional electrolyzed water generators, it has been difficult to stably generate electrolyzed water with a pH value and an effective chlorine concentration according to the needs of consumers.

[0005] The present invention realizes the generation of highly convenient electrolyzed water.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention A diluted substance prepared so that the quantity, salt concentration, and pH are each at predetermined values, The electrolyzed water produced by diluting the aforementioned substance with water, whose volume and pH are predetermined, and whose salt concentration is adjusted to one of several candidate set values ​​for electrolyzed water, is stored. A diaphragm-free electrolytic cell equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes. and, The diaphragmless electrolytic cell A connecting part that allows for detachable connection. An electrolytic water generator having It has, The electrolytic water generating apparatus is, The current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes is obtained, and it is determined which of the set values ​​the obtained current value corresponds to, thereby determining the multiple candidates. Select the electrolyzed water to be produced from among the electrolyzed waters. The measured electrolysis time for generating the selected electrolyzed water is read from the storage unit and obtained. By supplying an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes, the diaphragm-free electrolytic cell of The electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed is as described above. Acquired Controlled to the actual electrolysis time Then, the water to be electrolyzed in the non-diaphragm electrolytic cell is electrolyzed under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was measured. Electrolytic control unit has Electrolyzed water generation system That is the case.

[0007] The present invention A connecting section that detachably connects a diaphragmless electrolytic cell equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes, which stores electrolytic water produced by diluting a substance to be diluted with water so that the volume, salt concentration, and pH are each predetermined values, and which has been adjusted to one of several candidate salt concentration settings for electrolytic water, and which stores electrolytic water. The current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes is acquired, and by determining which of the set values ​​the acquired current value corresponds to, the electrolytic water to be produced is selected from the multiple candidate electrolytic waters. The measured electrolysis time during which the selected electrolytic water is produced is read from the storage unit and acquired. An electrolytic control unit is set to supply an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes and control the electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell to the acquired measured electrolysis time, and electrolyze the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was taken. This is an electrolytic water generator that has [a specific feature / ability]. The present invention A diluted substance, manufactured to have predetermined volume, salt concentration, and pH, is diluted with water to produce electrolyzed water, which has predetermined volume and pH, and whose salt concentration is adjusted to one of several candidate settings for electrolyzed water, and this electrolyzed water is then stored. A diaphragm-free electrolytic cell equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes. The diaphragmless electrolytic cell Detachable It has connecting parts that connect to each other. Connect to the electrolytic water generator, The electrolytic water generator, The current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes is obtained, and it is determined which of the set values ​​the obtained current value corresponds to, thereby determining the multiple candidates. Select the electrolyzed water to be produced from among the electrolyzed waters. The measured electrolysis time for generating the selected electrolyzed water is read from the storage unit and obtained. By supplying an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes, the diaphragm-free electrolytic cell of The electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed is as described above. Acquired Controlled to the actual electrolysis time Then, the water to be electrolyzed in the non-diaphragm electrolytic cell is electrolyzed under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was measured. Process to perform of Make them do it This is a method for producing electrolyzed water. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to generate electrolyzed water with high convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] It is a graph showing the relationship between the residual chlorine rate and the pH value. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an electrolyzed water generation system. [Figure 3] It is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example in a state where an electrolytic cell is connected to an electrolyzed water generator. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an electrolyzed water generator. [Figure 5] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a computer hardware. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing a flow example of an electrolyzed water generation method.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are preferred specific examples of the present invention, and the content of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. In addition, the sizes and positional relationships of the members shown in each drawing may be exaggerated for clarity of explanation or for simplification of illustration. Further, in order to prevent the illustration from becoming complicated, only some of the reference numerals may be illustrated, or a part of the configuration may be omitted from the illustration. The description will be made in the following order. 1. Basic concept of the present invention 2. First embodiment 3. Second embodiment 4. Modified example

[0011] <1. Basic concept of the present invention> Electrolyzed water is used in many applications, including disinfection, sterilization, deodorization, oxidation, food additives, and germ removal. The properties of electrolyzed water change depending on its pH value, and therefore its applications also differ. As shown in Figure 1, electrolyzed water is broadly classified into "strongly acidic hypochlorous acid water (strongly acidic electrolyzed water)," "weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water (weakly acidic electrolyzed water)," "slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water (slightly acidic electrolyzed water)," "mixed hypochlorous acid water (neutral electrolyzed water)," "electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water (weakly alkaline electrolyzed water)," and "sodium hypochlorite," in order from the acidic side according to pH value. In particular, hypochlorous acid water (acidic electrolyzed water) is an unstable substance that is sensitive to "temperature" and "ultraviolet light," and its effective chlorine concentration decreases due to natural decomposition over time, so care must be taken when storing it for a long period of time. Therefore, as will be explained in the embodiments below, the present invention makes it possible to generate electrolyzed water when needed without long-term storage, and to stably secure the necessary effective chlorine concentration for use in the intended application.

[0012] <2. First Embodiment> [2-1. System Configuration Example] Figure 2 shows an example configuration of an electrolytic water generation system (electrolytic water generation system 1) according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The electrolytic water generation system 1 is capable of generating three types of electrolytic water. In this embodiment, three types of slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water (pH 5.0 or higher, 6.5 or lower) with different effective chlorine concentrations (for example, 100 mg / L, 250 mg / L, and 400 mg / L) are generated. It is preferable to generate slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water with a neutral pH of 6.0 or higher, 6.5 or lower. This allows for a higher sterilization effect and ensures high safety even when sprayed on skin or clothing.

[0013] The electrolytic water generation system 1 comprises a stock solution container 2, an electrolytic cell 3, and an electrolytic water generation device 4. The stock solution container 2 is a small container (smaller than the electrolytic cell 3) that contains the stock solution for generating the electrolytic water. For example, a tube container as shown in the figure can be used as the stock solution container 2. The stock solution container 2 is manufactured and sold, for example, with the stock solution already contained, and the user obtains it by purchasing it from the distributor. The stock solution container 2 is manufactured so that the amount of stock solution, salt concentration (saline solution concentration), and pH value contained within are all predetermined values.

[0014] In this embodiment, the stock solution container 2 is filled with concentrated acidic brine as the stock solution for generating the water to be electrolyzed. This concentrated acidic brine is produced, for example, by mixing brine (aqueous solution of sodium chloride) with a predetermined amount of hydrochloric acid (HCl) for pH adjustment. It is preferable to use refined salt that does not contain impurities to produce the brine. The concentrated acidic brine is prepared, for example, by adding weak hydrochloric acid to a saline solution with the amount of salt required to achieve the target effective chlorine concentration of the generated electrolyzed water, so that the pH value falls within the desired range.

[0015] The water to be electrolyzed and stored in the electrolytic cell 3 is produced, for example, by diluting the stock solution in the stock solution container 2, which has been pre-mixed and dissolved as described above, with purified water or tap water to a predetermined amount. This makes it possible to produce water to be electrolyzed with the same volume, salt concentration, and pH value at all times (water to be electrolyzed with the desired volume, salt concentration, and pH value). In the electrolytic water generation system 1, the effective chlorine concentration of the generated electrolytic water can be adjusted to a predetermined value by changing the number of stock solution containers 2 used. For example, it is possible to produce mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L by electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed by diluting the stock solution in one stock solution container 2. Similarly, it is possible to produce mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 250 mg / L using the stock solution in two stock solution containers 2, and it is possible to produce mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 400 mg / L using the stock solution in three stock solution containers 2.

[0016] The electrolytic cell 3 is a diaphragm-free electrolytic cell (a single-chamber electrolytic cell without a diaphragm) that can be used for batch-type electrolysis in which the water to be electrolyzed is replaced each time it is produced. The electrolytic cell 3 is detachably connected to the electrolytic water generator 4 and has a main body 31, a lid 32, and a pair of electrolytic electrodes 33. The main body 31 is configured to be able to store the water to be electrolyzed by pouring it in through an opening. Specifically, the main body 31 is configured in a bottle shape with a spout at the top (the upper part when placed on a table, etc.) with an opening. The main body 31 has an openable and closable on-off valve 311 for gas release at the lower part opposite to the top.

[0017] The lid portion 32 closes the opening of the main body portion 31. Specifically, the lid portion 32 is configured in the shape of a bottle cap, as shown in the figure. Note that the shapes of the main body portion 31 and the lid portion 32 are not limited to those shown, and other shapes may be adopted.

[0018] A pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 (electrode 331 and electrode 332) are used for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3 and are arranged on the lid 32. Electrodes 331 and 332 are, for example, formed by coating titanium (Ti) with platinum (Pt). The pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 are, for example, formed as shown in the figure, each in the shape of a rod with a circular cross-section, fitted into the lid 32, and one end can be used as a connection terminal. By making the structure of the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 and their installation simple in this way, the manufacturing of the electrolytic cell 3 is made easier and manufacturing errors can be reduced. As a result, the structure (material, shape, area, etc.) of the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 in the electrolytic cell 3 is always the same, and the electrolysis conditions caused by the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 can always be kept the same. Furthermore, by providing the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 on the lid 32, the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 can be easily replaced simply by replacing the lid 32.

[0019] The structure of the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 is not limited to this, and can be appropriately set according to the electrolytic environment. For example, the base material described above may be a titanium alloy, platinum, etc., and the material covering the base material may be other platinum-based metals such as iridium (Ir) or ruthenium (Ru). Also, the electrode shape is not limited to a rod shape, but may be a plate shape, etc. Furthermore, instead of using one end of electrodes 331 and 332 as a connection terminal, other conductors connected to one end of electrodes 331 and 332, respectively, may be used as connection terminals.

[0020] [2-2. Example Configuration of an Electrolyzed Water Generator] The electrolytic water generator 4 generates electrolytic water by electrolyzing water to be electrolyzed that has been pre-stored in the electrolytic cell 3. In other words, the electrolytic water generator 4 generates electrolytic water by batch electrolysis. The electrolytic water generator 4 has a housing 41, a connecting section 42, an operating section 43, a notification section 44, and a power terminal section 45.

[0021] The housing 41 forms the exterior of the device and, as shown in the figure, has a flat box shape with a bottom that can be placed on a surface such as a table. This allows the electrolytic water generator 4 to be installed on a tabletop in a space-saving manner. The connecting part 42 has a structure for connecting the electrolytic cell 3. The connecting part 42 has a fitting shape in which the lid part 32 of the electrolytic cell 3 fits onto the upper surface of the housing 41, as shown in the figure. In other words, the electrolytic cell 3 is connected to the electrolytic water generator 4 with the main body part 31 standing upright (with the lid part 32 facing downwards). This structure for connecting the electrolytic cell 3 allows for efficient installation of the electrolytic cell 3.

[0022] The control unit 43 is used by the user to operate the electrolytic water generator 4. The control unit 43 is composed of, for example, a control unit consisting of a group of switches. The notification unit 44 notifies the user of the status of the electrolytic water generator 4. The notification unit 44 is composed of, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) to provide visual notification to the user. Alternatively, an audible notification may be provided by a buzzer or the like. The power terminal unit 45 consists of connection terminals for inputting an external power supply to the electrolytic water generator 4. This external power supply is, for example, DC 12-24V converted from household AC 100V.

[0023] Here, we will explain in detail an example of connecting the electrolytic cell 3 to the electrolytic water generator 4. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration when the electrolytic cell 3 is connected to the electrolytic water generator 4. At the lower part of the connection section 42 of the electrolytic water generator 4, there is a connection terminal 46 that connects to the electrode 331 and a connection terminal 47 that connects to the electrode 332. The connection terminals 46 and 47 can each be made of a spring-like conductor, for example, as shown in the figure. This allows the connection state with the electrodes 331 and 332 to be maintained well by the elastic force of the spring-like conductor. Note that the connection structure to the electrodes 331 and 332 may be other than this.

[0024] Next, with reference to Figure 4, an example configuration of the electrolytic water generator 4 will be described in detail. The control unit 43 has, for example, five switches (switches 431 to 435) that can be operated by the user, as shown in the figure. The control unit 43 is not limited to this configuration; any configuration that allows the user to operate it is acceptable, and it may be operated by a touch panel, remote control, voice control, etc.

[0025] Switches 431 to 433 are selection switches that allow the user to manually select the generated electrolyzed water (generated water A, generated water B, or generated water C) according to the water being electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3. These switches 431 to 433 set the electrolysis time by the electrolyzed water generator 4 using a timer. In this embodiment, the operation unit 43 is configured to allow selective setting of the effective chlorine concentration of the generated electrolyzed water from a plurality of candidates. For example, generated water A is mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L, generated water B is mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 250 mg / L, and generated water C is mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 400 mg / L.

[0026] Switch 434 is an automatic setting switch that turns on or off the automatic setting for selecting the generated electrolyzed water. Switch 435 is an electrolysis start switch that instructs the start of electrolysis. The operation unit 43 is connected to the electrolysis control unit 49, and operation information corresponding to the user's actions is supplied from the operation unit 43 to the electrolysis control unit 49.

[0027] The electrolytic power supply unit 48 is composed of, for example, a power supply circuit and is connected to the power supply terminal unit 45 and connection terminals 46 and 47. The electrolytic power supply unit 48 supplies an electrolytic power supply (for example, DC 12V) to the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 via the connection terminals 46 and 47. The electrolytic power supply unit 48 is configured to allow adjustment of the electrolytic voltage and electrolytic current of this electrolytic power supply. The electrolytic power supply unit 48 may, for example, be an AC / DC converter within the electrolytic water generator 4, or it may use an internal power supply such as a battery. The electrolytic power supply unit 48 is connected to the electrolytic control unit 49.

[0028] The electrolysis control unit 49 is composed of a computer, such as a microcomputer, and controls the electrolysis power supply unit 48 based on operation information supplied from the operation unit 43. In other words, the electrolysis control unit 49 controls the supply of electrolysis power to the pair of electrolysis electrodes 33. The electrolysis control unit 49 has an electrolysis selection unit 491, a time information acquisition unit 492, and an electrolysis power supply control unit 493 as functional blocks. The electrolysis selection unit 491 selects the type of electrolyzed water to be generated from generated water A, B, and C according to the operation information supplied from the operation unit 43.

[0029] For example, if the operation information determines that the user manually selected generated water B and instructed the start of electrolysis, the electrolysis selection unit 491 selects generated water B as the electrolyzed water to be produced. Alternatively, if the operation information determines that the user instructed the start of electrolysis using the automatic setting, the electrolysis selection unit 491 automatically selects the electrolyzed water to be produced from generated waters A, B, and C. For example, this selection can be performed as follows.

[0030] The current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 changes according to the salt concentration of the water to be electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3. Therefore, when electrolysis is instructed to start by automatic setting, the electrolysis selection unit 491 acquires the current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33, determines the salt concentration of the water to be electrolyzed based on the acquired current value, and automatically selects the electrolyzed water to be produced according to the determined salt concentration. For example, it determines whether the current value is within the range of an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L, and if it is within the range, it selects the electrolyzed water to be produced to have an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L. If it is not within the range, it determines whether the current value is within the range of an effective chlorine concentration of 250 mg / L, and if it is within the range, it selects the electrolyzed water to be produced to have an effective chlorine concentration of 250 mg / L. If it is not within the range, it determines whether the current value is within the range of an effective chlorine concentration of 400 mg / L, and if it is within the range, it selects the electrolyzed water to be produced to have an effective chlorine concentration of 400 mg / L. If it is determined that the current value is not within the range in each determination, the determination may be performed a predetermined number of times at predetermined time intervals. This current value can be obtained, for example, from the electrolytic power supply unit 48. However, this is not the only way to obtain this current value; for example, an ammeter (not shown) that measures the current value between a pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 may be installed, and the value may be obtained directly from the installed ammeter.

[0031] The current value flowing between this pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 is also used to determine whether the user's selection of generated electrolytic water in manual settings is correct or incorrect. For example, suppose the user has selected generated water B even though the water being electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3 is for generating generated water A. In this case, the electrolysis control unit 49 will, for example, control the notification unit 44 to notify the user that there is a setting error. This eliminates errors caused by manual settings by the user. Also, for example, if the current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 is an abnormal value, the main unit may be reset and the power turned off. This enhances safety.

[0032] The time information acquisition unit 492 reads and acquires the measured electrolysis time for generating the electrolyzed water selected by the electrolysis selection unit 491 from the storage unit (not shown here). The storage unit has in advance the measured electrolysis times for generating electrolyzed waters A, B, and C (for example, ○ seconds for generated water A, △ seconds for generated water B, □ seconds for generated water C, etc.), and the time information acquisition unit 492 reads and acquires the measured electrolysis time for the generated electrolyzed water selected by the electrolysis selection unit 491. The measured electrolysis time is determined by actually measuring the electrolysis time (time from the start to the end of electrolysis) for each type of electrolyzed water using an electrolyzed water generator 4 (for example, any device of the same model with the same electrolysis conditions) (for example, by repeating electrolysis tests). For example, the electrolysis during this measurement is performed with a constant voltage and constant current. Alternatively, individual timers may be set in advance for each of the generated waters A, B, and C.

[0033] The electrolytic power control unit 493 controls the electrolytic power supply unit 48 as follows: The electrolytic power control unit 493 controls the electrolysis time for supplying electrolytic power to the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 and electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed that has been previously stored in the electrolytic cell 3 to the measured electrolysis time of the water to be electrolyzed selected by the electrolysis selection unit 491, that is, the measured electrolysis time acquired by the time information acquisition unit 492. At the same time, it controls the values ​​of the electrolysis voltage and electrolysis current for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed to be the same as those used during the measurement of the measured electrolysis time acquired by the time information acquisition unit 492. For example, the electrolytic power control unit 493 controls this electrolysis voltage and electrolysis current to the same constant voltage and constant current as during actual measurement.

[0034] To ensure a stable effective chlorine concentration in the generated electrolyzed water, it is important to keep the amount of water to be electrolyzed, its salt concentration and pH value, the electrolysis voltage and current values ​​and electrolysis time, and the temperature of the water to be electrolyzed constant. This allows for the consistent reproduction of the pH value and effective chlorine concentration of the generated electrolyzed water. For example, while the electrolysis voltage and current values ​​are affected by the temperature of the water to be electrolyzed, the electrolyzed water generator 4 maintains all of these conditions, including the electrolysis voltage and current values, under the same conditions as during actual measurements, thus ensuring that the pH value and effective chlorine concentration of the electrolyzed water after electrolysis are consistently reproduced. For example, by controlling the current value to be constant, excessive electrolysis current can be prevented, preventing the system from being affected by temperature changes of the water to be electrolyzed during electrolysis or from external sources. Furthermore, by simply controlling the electrolysis time, three different types of electrolyzed water with varying effective chlorine concentrations can be easily and stably generated.

[0035] [2-3. Examples of computer hardware configurations] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer (computer 10) that can constitute the electrolytic control unit 49 described above. The computer 10 has a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, an input unit 103, a timing unit 104, and an output unit 105 that are interconnected by a bus.

[0036] The control unit 101 is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read Only Memory). The ROM stores programs that are read and executed by the CPU. The RAM is used as the CPU's work memory. The CPU controls the entire computer 10 by executing various processes and issuing commands according to the programs stored in the ROM.

[0037] The storage unit 102 is a storage medium composed of, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive), semiconductor memory, etc., and stores various information such as a program (for example, a program for electrolysis control that causes the electrolysis control unit 49 to execute the above-mentioned control) and data for the program (for example, the measured electrolysis times described above).

[0038] The input unit 103 inputs various information to the computer 10. When information is input by the input unit 103, the control unit 101 performs various processing corresponding to the input information. The timing unit 104 measures various times (for example, the elapsed time from the start of electrolysis of the water to be electrolyzed as described above). The timing unit 104 is composed of, for example, a timer circuit including a timer. The output unit 105 outputs various information from the computer 10.

[0039] The control unit 101 performs various processes by, for example, reading and executing a program stored in the memory unit 102 (for example, the electrolytic control program described above). Note that the program and various information may be stored in memory units other than the memory unit 102. For example, the program and various information may be stored on a storage medium that can be attached to the computer 10, or on a network that can be accessed via the communication unit.

[0040] [2-4. Example of a flow chart for electrolyzed water generation] Figure 5 shows an example of the flow of the electrolytic water generation method according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, when generating electrolytic water, the user first generates the water to be electrolyzed (step S10). Specifically, the user determines the type of electrolytic water to be generated by the electrolytic water generator 4 and generates the water to be electrolyzed accordingly. For example, when generating generated water B, the stock solutions from two stock solution containers 2 are placed into the main body 31 of the electrolytic cell 3, diluted to a predetermined amount with purified water or tap water to generate the water to be electrolyzed, and the opening of the main body 31 is closed with the lid 32. At this time, the on / off valve 311 of the electrolytic cell 3 (see Figure 2) is in the closed state.

[0041] Next, the user connects the electrolytic cell 3 to the electrolytic water generator 4 (step S20). Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the lid 32 of the electrolytic cell 3 is fitted onto the connecting part 42 of the electrolytic water generator 4. Then, the on / off valve 311 of the electrolytic cell 3 is opened. This completes the preparation for electrolysis by the electrolytic water generator 4.

[0042] After preparation is complete, when the user operates the control unit 43 (see Figure 4, etc.) of the electrolytic water generator 4, the electrolytic water generator 4 selects the electrolytic water to be produced according to the operation (step S30). For example, if the user manually selects water B and instructs the start of electrolysis, the electrolytic water generator 4 selects water B as the electrolytic water to be produced.

[0043] Next, the electrolyzed water generator 4 reads and acquires the measured electrolysis time selected in step S30 from the storage unit 102, etc. (step S40). Then, the electrolyzed water generator 4 starts electrolysis under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was acquired (step S50). Specifically, the values ​​of the electrolysis voltage and electrolysis current used to electrolyze the water to be electrolyzed are controlled to be the same as when the measured electrolysis time was acquired.

[0044] The electrolyzed water generator 4 then determines whether the electrolysis time of the water to be electrolyzed has elapsed (step S60). If it is determined that the time has not elapsed (No), it continues electrolysis; if it is determined that the time has elapsed (Yes), it terminates electrolysis. The user may also be notified by the notification unit 44 when electrolysis is completed. After electrolysis is completed, the on / off valve 311 of the electrolytic cell 3 is closed.

[0045] With the above steps completed, the generation of electrolyzed water by the electrolyzed water generation system 1 is finished. The generated electrolyzed water can be used by transferring it to a refill bottle, for example. For example, the refill bottle can be used as a spray bottle to spray the electrolyzed water. Alternatively, the electrolyzed water can be used while still in the electrolytic cell 3 without transferring it to a refill bottle.

[0046] [2-5. Examples] The inventors of this application attempted to produce electrolyzed water as follows. First, they aimed to stably produce hypochlorous acid water (slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water) with a pH value of 6.0 or higher and 6.5 or lower, and an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L, 250 mg / L, and 400 mg / L.

[0047] The effective chlorine concentration was selected as follows. The effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water is recommended, for example, as follows. • Use for wiping surfaces, etc., to inactivate the novel coronavirus: 80 mg / L • Use for disinfecting kitchen areas, etc.: 200 mg / L • For use in combating norovirus and for disinfecting toilets, etc.: 400 mg / L

[0048] Therefore, in this example, we attempted to produce hypochlorous acid water with three different effective chlorine concentrations: 100 mg / L, 250 mg / L, and 400 mg / L, taking into account the decrease in effective chlorine concentration due to natural decomposition for different everyday uses.

[0049] The salt concentration of the water to be electrolyzed was tested in the range of 0.1% to 3.0%. Initially, electrolysis was performed using only salt water without adding acid. Naturally, the higher the salt concentration, the higher the effective chlorine concentration of the hypochlorous acid water produced. However, at the same time, the pH value also increases, and depending on the electrolysis time, a large amount (for example, several thousand ppm) of sodium hypochlorite is generated.

[0050] On the other hand, considering its use in daily life, the following points were taken into consideration regarding the hypochlorous acid water produced. (1) After spraying and drying, minimize the amount of salt crystals. (2) Reduce the saltiness when used for oral disinfection. (3) The concentration of hypochlorous acid water used on a daily basis should be appropriate for the intended use (as mentioned above, 100 mg / L, The dosage is limited to 250 mg / L and 450 mg / L.

[0051] Therefore, it is desirable that the water to be electrolyzed has the minimum salt concentration necessary for the pH value and effective chlorine concentration of the resulting hypochlorous acid water to meet the above-mentioned targets. Test results showed that it is possible to produce hypochlorous acid water with a salt concentration of 0.2% when the minimum effective chlorine concentration is 100 mg / L.

[0052] Furthermore, the pH value of the generated hypochlorous acid water was adjusted as follows: First, hydrochloric acid was titrated onto hypochlorous acid water electrolyzed using only saline solution to determine the amount that would result in a pH of 6.5 or lower. Next, the concentration of acidic saline solution (salt concentration and hydrochloric acid concentration) that could reproduce a pH value of 6.0 or higher and 6.5 or lower for electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L or higher was determined by pre-injecting that amount of hydrochloric acid into saline solution. Then, the specified amount of concentrated acidic saline solution, made by dissolving the amount of salt and hydrochloric acid that would result in acidic saline solution of that concentration when diluted with purified water or tap water in a small amount of purified water, was filled into the stock solution container 2.

[0053] Then, the number of stock solution containers 2 was used to determine the electrolysis time required to produce slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water with an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L or more with 1 container, 250 mg / L or more with 2 containers, and 400 mg / L or more with 3 containers.

[0054] The electrolysis time was determined by using multiple electrolyzed water generators 4 and generating the water to be electrolyzed under the conditions described above. The amount of water to be electrolyzed, salt concentration, and pH value were fixed for each generator, and the electrolysis voltage and current values ​​were fixed using electrodes of the same shape for each generator. The electrolysis test was then measured. In other words, the electrolysis test was repeated while keeping all electrolysis conditions except the electrolysis time the same. The amount of slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water produced in one electrolysis (one batch) was set at 900 mL.

[0055] (1) Undiluted • Mixture of salt water and hydrochloric acid ·Amount 30mL (2) Electrolyzed water • The undiluted solution diluted with tap water. ·Amount: 900mL pH value: 2.5 • Salt concentration: 0.4%

[0056] Table 1 shows the results produced by the three electrolyzed water generators 4 (devices X, Y, and Z).

[0057] [Table 1]

[0058] The results showed that by appropriately setting the electrolysis time, the pH value and effective chlorine concentration could meet the target levels. Similar results were obtained when the amount of stock solution was 15 mL, the amount of water to be electrolyzed was 450 mL, and the amount of slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water produced in one electrolysis cycle was 450 mL. Therefore, the amount of electrolyzed water produced can be varied depending on the intended use, such as household or commercial use.

[0059] [2-6. Effects obtained by one embodiment] As described above, the electrolytic water generator 4 can be miniaturized by performing batch-type electrolysis, and the amount of water to be electrolyzed, the salt concentration, and the pH value can always be kept the same. Furthermore, the electrolytic water generator 4 controls the electrolysis time for the water to be electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3 to the measured electrolysis time of the electrolytic water to be produced, and controls the values ​​of the electrolysis voltage and electrolysis current for the water to be electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3 to be the same as when the measured electrolysis time of the electrolytic water to be produced is measured. As a result, by simply setting the electrolysis time appropriately, electrolytic water with an effective chlorine concentration that meets the needs of consumers can be stably produced.

[0060] <3. Second Embodiment> The electrolytic water generation system of this embodiment generates multiple types of electrolytic water, each with a different pH value. Since the basic configuration of the electrolytic water generation system according to this embodiment is the same as that of the electrolytic water generation system 1 of the first embodiment, only the differences will be explained here, referring to the drawings used in the description of the first embodiment.

[0061] In this embodiment, three types of electrolyzed water with different pH values ​​are produced. The three types of electrolyzed water are, for example, weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water (pH 2.7 or higher, 5.0 or lower), slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water (pH 5.0 or higher, 6.5 or lower), and electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water (pH 8.0 or higher, 9.0 or lower).

[0062] Weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water and mildly acidic hypochlorous acid water can be produced using the concentrated acidic brine described in the first embodiment as the stock solution. On the other hand, electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water uses high-purity concentrated brine (sodium chloride aqueous solution) as the stock solution. In other words, in this embodiment, the stock solution container 2 shown in Figure 2 has two types: one filled with concentrated acidic brine and one filled with concentrated brine, and the appropriate one is used depending on the electrolyzed water to be produced. Alternatively, instead of diluting the stock solution with water, the electrolyzed water may be produced by dissolving a tablet, powder, or gel-like substance to be diluted in water.

[0063] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the generated water (generated water A to C) that the user can select using switches 431 to 433 in Figure 4 are weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water, slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water, and electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water, respectively. The electrolysis selection unit 491 selects the electrolyzed water to be generated from three types of electrolyzed water with different pH values ​​(for example, weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water, slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water, and electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water) according to the operation information supplied from the operation unit 43.

[0064] Then, the time information acquisition unit 492 of the electrolysis control unit 49 reads and acquires the measured electrolysis time for which the electrolyzed water selected by the electrolysis selection unit 491 is generated from the storage unit 102 or the like. Also, the electrolysis power supply control unit 493, similar to the first embodiment, supplies an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes 33 and controls the electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed that has been previously stored in the electrolytic cell 3 to the measured electrolysis time acquired by the time information acquisition unit 492, and controls the values ​​of the electrolysis voltage and electrolysis current for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed to be the same as when the measured electrolysis time acquired by the time information acquisition unit 492 was measured.

[0065] The inventors attempted to produce each type of electrolyzed water, using the following methods: Generated water A was a weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water with a pH of 4.0 to 5.0 and an effective chlorine concentration of 100 mg / L; Generated water B was a slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 and an effective chlorine concentration of 400 mg / L; and Generated water C was an electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water with a pH of 8.5 to 9.0 and an effective chlorine concentration of 1,000 mg / L. For Generated water A, the electrolyzed water was produced by diluting concentrated acidic brine from two stock solution containers 2. For Generated water B, the electrolyzed water was produced by diluting concentrated acidic brine from three stock solution containers 2. For Generated water C, the electrolyzed water (salt concentration 1.2%) was produced by diluting concentrated brine from one stock solution container 2.

[0066] As a result, it was found that by appropriately setting the electrolysis time, the pH value and available chlorine concentration could each meet the target.

[0067] As described above, in this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the pH value and effective chlorine concentration of the electrolyzed water after electrolysis can always be reproduced. Furthermore, by simply controlling the electrolysis time, three different pH values ​​of electrolyzed water can be easily and stably produced. In other words, by simply setting the electrolysis time appropriately, electrolyzed water with a pH value that meets the needs of consumers can be stably produced.

[0068] <4. Variation> Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the content of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications based on the technical concept of the present invention are possible.

[0069] For example, in the electrolytic water generation system 1 of each embodiment described above, examples were given of systems that selectively generate electrolytic water from three types of electrolytic water, but the number of selection candidates can be two or more. Furthermore, systems that selectively generate both pH value and effective chlorine concentration may also be used. This allows for the generation of various types of electrolytic water with a simple configuration that uses the electrolytic cell 3 and the electrolytic water generation device 4 as common components. In this case, for example, weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water, slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water, and electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water can be generated using electrolyzed water with a pH value of 2.0 to 7.0 and a salt concentration of 0.1 to 3.0.

[0070] Furthermore, the combinations of pH values ​​(e.g., type of electrolyzed water) and effective chlorine concentrations in each embodiment are merely illustrative and can be changed as appropriate. Additionally, the electrolyzed water generator 4 may have a pH measuring unit that measures the pH value of the water being electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 3 using a pH meter installed in the electrolytic cell 3. In this case, the pH value of the generated electrolyzed water can be accurately controlled to a target value using the measurement results from the measuring unit. The measurement results from the measuring unit may be used for the automatic settings described above and for determining the correctness of the user's selection of generated electrolyzed water.

[0071] The configurations (including relative arrangements), methods, processes, shapes, materials, and numerical values ​​given in the above-described embodiments and modifications are merely examples, and different configurations, methods, processes, shapes, materials, and numerical values ​​may be used as needed, or they may be replaced with known ones. Furthermore, the configurations, methods, processes, shapes, materials, and numerical values ​​in the embodiments and modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical inconsistencies arise, and they may be omitted as appropriate.

[0072] The effects exemplified herein should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1. Electrolyzed water generation system 2...Undiluted solution container 3...Electrolytic cell 4... Electrolyzed water generator 31. Main body 32...Lid part 33. A pair of electrolytic electrodes 41... Cabinet 42...Connection part 43...Operation unit 48...Electrolysis power supply section 49. Electrolytic Control Unit 491...Electrolysis selection department 492...Time Information Acquisition Unit 493... Electrolytic power supply control unit

Claims

1. A dilution material prepared such that the volume, salt concentration, and pH are each at predetermined values, A diaphragmless electrolytic cell is provided, which stores electrolytic water prepared by diluting the aforementioned substance to be diluted with water, and which has a predetermined volume and pH, and a salt concentration adjusted to one of several candidate set values ​​for electrolytic water, and is equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes. An electrolytic water generator having a connecting part for detachably connecting the aforementioned diaphragmless electrolytic cell, It has, The electrolytic water generating apparatus is, The electrolysis control unit acquires the current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes, determines which of the set values ​​the acquired current value corresponds to, selects the electrolyzed water to be produced from among the multiple candidate electrolyzed waters, reads and acquires the measured electrolysis time for which the selected electrolyzed water is produced from the storage unit, supplies an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes and controls the electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell to the acquired measured electrolysis time, and electrolyzes the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was taken. Electrolyzed water generation system.

2. The aforementioned multiple candidate electrolyzed waters are weakly acidic hypochlorous acid waters, each with a different effective chlorine concentration. The electrolytic water generator selectively produces electrolytic water from among slightly acidic hypochlorous acid waters, each with a different effective chlorine concentration. The electrolytic water generation system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned multiple candidate electrolyzed waters are at least two or more electrolyzed waters from among weakly acidic hypochlorous acid water, slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water, and electrolyzed hypochlorous acid water, each with a different pH value. The electrolytic water generating device selectively generates electrolytic water from among the two or more electrolytic water sources. The electrolytic water generation system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The diaphragm-free electrolytic cell has a bottle-shaped main body having an opening and a bottle cap-shaped lid that closes the opening. The pair of electrolytic electrodes are arranged in the lid portion, The connecting portion has a fitting shape that allows the lid portion to be fitted onto the upper surface of the box-shaped housing while the main body portion is erected on top of it. The main body has a gas venting valve on the side opposite to the opening. An electrolytic water generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A connecting part that detachably connects a diaphragmless electrolytic cell, which stores electrolytic water produced by diluting a substance to be diluted with water so that the volume, salt concentration, and pH are each predetermined values, and which has been adjusted to one of the set values ​​of electrolytic water with predetermined volume and pH and a salt concentration of one of several candidate values, and is equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes, The current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes is acquired, and by determining which of the set values ​​the acquired current value corresponds to, the electrolytic water to be produced is selected from the multiple candidate electrolytic waters. The measured electrolysis time during which the selected electrolytic water is produced is read from the storage unit and acquired. An electrolytic control unit is set to supply an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes and control the electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell to the acquired measured electrolysis time, and electrolyze the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was taken. An electrolytic water generator having the following features.

6. A non-diaphragm electrolytic cell, which stores electrolytic water produced by diluting a substance to be diluted with water so that the volume, salt concentration, and pH are each predetermined values, and which has been adjusted to one of several candidate set values ​​for the salt concentration of electrolytic water with predetermined volume and pH, and which is equipped with a pair of electrolytic electrodes, is connected to an electrolytic water generating device having a connecting part for detachably connecting the non-diaphragm electrolytic cell. The electrolytic water generator, The current value flowing between the pair of electrolytic electrodes is obtained, and by determining which of the set values ​​the obtained current value corresponds to, the electrolytic water to be produced is selected from the multiple candidate electrolytic waters. The measured electrolysis time for producing the selected electrolytic water is read from the storage unit and obtained. The electrolysis time for electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell by supplying an electrolytic power supply to the pair of electrolytic electrodes is controlled to the obtained measured electrolysis time, and the process of electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed in the diaphragmless electrolytic cell is performed under the same conditions as when the measured electrolysis time was taken. Electrolyzed water generation method.

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