Disinfection system

The sterilization system uses ozone discharge, UV irradiation, and air circulation to rapidly reduce ozone concentration, addressing the inconvenience of prolonged ozone presence and ensuring safe post-sterilization occupancy.

JP7856395B2Active Publication Date: 2026-05-11DAIWA HOUSE INDUSTRY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
DAIWA HOUSE INDUSTRY CO LTD
Filing Date
2021-09-15
Publication Date
2026-05-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing ozone-based sterilization systems do not adequately address the convenience issue after sterilization, as ozone concentration remains high for an extended period, posing challenges in post-sterilization usage.

Method used

A sterilization system that incorporates an ozone discharge unit, an ultraviolet light irradiation unit to promote ozone decomposition, and an air circulation unit, along with a control unit to manage ozone emission and UV irradiation, ensuring rapid reduction of ozone concentration post-sterilization.

Benefits of technology

Enhances post-sterilization convenience by effectively reducing ozone concentration to safe levels, allowing immediate occupancy and minimizing human exposure and energy consumption.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide a sterilization system capable of attempting an improvement of convenience after performing sterilization with ozone.SOLUTION: A sterilization system 320 is a sterilization system that sterilizes a predetermined space (guest room 10 and work booth 410) using ozone, and includes an ozone release unit (ozone generator 21) that releases ozone into the space. and an irradiation unit (irradiation device 32, irradiation device 32a, irradiation device 32b) capable of irradiating ultraviolet rays capable of promoting the decomposition of ozone to the ozone released by the ozone release unit (ozone generator 21).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology of a sterilization system for sterilizing a predetermined space using ozone.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technology for sterilizing a predetermined space using ozone has been known. For example, it is as described in Patent Document 1.

[0003] The ozone sterilization and deodorization device described in Patent Document 1 can release ozone from an ozone air generation unit provided in the device body. By installing the ozone sterilization and deodorization device in a guest room of a lodging facility, the guest room can be sterilized.

[0004] However, since the concentration of ozone (ozone concentration) once released does not immediately decrease, improvement in convenience after sterilization using ozone is required.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and the problem to be solved is to provide a sterilization system capable of improving convenience after sterilization using ozone.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is as described above. Next, means for solving this problem will be described.

[0008] That is, claim 1 is a sterilization system that sterilizes a predetermined space using ozone, comprising: an ozone discharge unit that discharges ozone into the space; an irradiation unit that can irradiate the ozone discharged by the ozone discharge unit with ultraviolet light capable of promoting the decomposition of ozone; and a circulation unit that can circulate the air in the space, wherein the irradiation unit includes a first irradiation unit capable of irradiating the air circulated by the circulation unit with ultraviolet light, the circulation unit is capable of discharging air from the space drawn in through an intake port into the space through an exhaust port, and the first irradiation unit is provided at least one of the exhaust port and the intake port, and is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light across the port and along the line through which the air passes. The space is the interior space of a building, and the circulation unit is an air conditioning device that provides air conditioning for the space, and is located in a different location from the ozone emission unit located within the space. It is.

[0009] In claim 2, The first irradiation unit is provided at both the exhaust port and the intake port. It is.

[0011] Claim 3 In this configuration, the irradiation unit includes a second irradiation unit installed on the upper part of the corner of the wall that partitions the space.

[0012] Claim 4 In this configuration, the space is the interior space of the booth, further comprising an exhaust section located at the bottom of the booth and connecting the inside and outside of the booth, and the irradiation section includes a third irradiation section provided in the exhaust section and capable of irradiating ultraviolet light onto a line through which air passes.

[0013] Claim 5 The device further comprises a control unit capable of controlling the irradiation unit, and the control unit starts irradiation by the irradiation unit after the ozone emission unit has finished emitting ozone.

[0014] Claim 6 The device further includes a locking mechanism for locking and unlocking a door that allows entry and exit to the space. The control unit locks the door with the locking mechanism before the ozone emission unit starts emitting ozone, and unlocks the door after the irradiation unit has finished emitting ozone.

[0015] In the claim 7 the ultraviolet ray irradiated from the irradiation unit has a wavelength range of 254 to 280 nm.

Effect of the Invention

[0016] As an effect of the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.

[0017] This invention it is possible to improve the convenience after sterilization using ozone.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] (a) Floor plan of a hotel to which the sterilization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied. (b) Diagram showing a guest room and the sterilization system. [Figure 2] Diagram showing an operation pattern. [Figure 3] (a) Diagram showing a rapid pattern. (b) Diagram showing a rapid exhaust pattern. [Figure 4] (a) Diagram showing a standard pattern. (b) Diagram showing a standard exhaust pattern. [Figure 5] Diagram showing a guest room and the sterilization system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] Diagram showing an operation pattern according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] Diagram showing a double sterilization pattern. [Figure 8] Diagram showing the check-in and check-out times for each guest room. [Figure 9] Diagram showing the state where cleaning time is allocated. [Figure 10] Diagram showing the state where the allocation of cleaning time and sterilization time is completed. [Figure 11] (a) Diagram showing a guest room and the sterilization system according to the third embodiment. (b) Diagram showing a bathroom sterilization pattern. [Figure 12] (a) Diagram showing the sterilization system according to the fourth embodiment. (b) Diagram showing the arrangement of the irradiation unit. [Figure 13] This figure shows the results of an experiment on the effect of UV-C irradiation on promoting the reduction of ozone concentration. [Figure 14] A flowchart showing the first sterilization process performed by the control unit. [Figure 15] A diagram showing a first alternative example of the sterilization system according to the fourth embodiment. (b) A diagram showing the arrangement of the irradiation unit. [Figure 16] A diagram showing a second alternative example of the sterilization system according to the fourth embodiment. (b) A diagram showing a work booth. [Figure 17] A flowchart illustrating the second sterilization process performed by the control unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] The configuration of Hotel 1, where the disinfection system 20 according to the first embodiment is installed, will be described below with reference to Figure 1.

[0027] Hotel 1 is an accommodation facility for users (those who will be using Room 10). Hotel 1 consists of a multi-story building. Hotel 1 has multiple Room 10 rooms. Note that in Figure 1(a), only Room 10 on the second floor of Hotel 1 is shown, and Room 10 on other floors are omitted.

[0028] Guest room 10 comprises a bedroom 11, a corridor 12, and a unit bathroom 13. Bedroom 11 is furnished with a bed 11a and a table 11b, etc. The unit bathroom 13 is partitioned from bedroom 11 and corridor 12. The unit bathroom 13 is equipped with a bathroom exhaust fan 13a. The bathroom exhaust fan 13a operates 24 hours a day, exhausting the air inside guest room 10 to the outside of Hotel 1. By introducing outside air into guest room 10 via the corridor, etc., guest room 10 is ventilated throughout the day. The bathroom exhaust fan 13a is configured to allow for stepwise adjustment of the airflow. More specifically, the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is configured to allow for adjustment from the lowest airflow setting to "24-hour ventilation," "low," and "high." Normally (when 24-hour ventilation is performed), the bathroom exhaust fan 13a operates at the "24-hour ventilation" setting. In addition, the bathroom exhaust fan 13a can be operated at the "low" or "high" setting by the user or other operator. It should be noted that guest room 10 does not necessarily need to be ventilated 24 hours a day using the bathroom ventilation fan 13a; for example, it may be ventilated 24 hours a day using a ventilation fan specifically designed for 24-hour ventilation.

[0029] As described above, Room 10 is a space used by different guests. In Room 10, between the time a guest checks out and the time the next guest checks in (hereinafter referred to as the "changeover period"), cleaning staff perform preparation work for the changeover. Preparation work for the changeover refers to the work of preparing Room 10 so that the environment of Room 10 can be used by the next guest. Preparation work for the changeover includes cleaning Room 10.

[0030] The disinfection system 20 is for disinfecting the guest rooms 10 of Hotel 1 during the room changeover period. More specifically, the disinfection system 20 disinfects the guest rooms 10 from the time the room changeover preparation work is completed until the room changeover period has elapsed. As shown in Figure 1(b), the disinfection system 20 comprises an ozone generator 21 and a control unit 22.

[0031] The ozone generator 21 is for generating a gaseous disinfectant component. In this specification, the disinfectant component refers to a substance capable of killing bacteria or inactivating viruses. Furthermore, "gaseous" refers to a state that can move along with the airflow. The ozone generator 21 can generate ozone as the disinfectant component. The ozone generator 21 is installed on the ceiling of the bedroom 11 and can release the generated ozone into the guest rooms 10. An ozone generator 21 is provided in each guest room 10.

[0032] The control unit 22 controls the equipment (in the first embodiment, the bathroom ventilation fan 13a and the ozone generator 21) for disinfecting each guest room 10. The control unit 22 is equipped with a processing unit such as a CPU, and a storage device such as RAM and ROM. The control unit 22 also stores various programs for operating the disinfection system 20 in the storage device. The control unit 22 is configured to communicate with a terminal (not shown) owned by the cleaning staff and / or the manager, and can obtain the check-out time (scheduled time) of the guest room 10 from the terminal. The control unit 22 is configured to transmit signals to the bathroom ventilation fan 13a and the ozone generator 21 of each guest room 10.

[0033] The control unit 22 can switch the operation of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a on and off, and adjust the airflow by sending a signal to the bathroom ventilation fan 13a. The control unit 22 can also switch the operation of the ozone generator 21 on and off, and adjust the amount of ozone generated by sending a signal to the ozone generator 21. By adjusting the amount of ozone generated, the control unit 22 can arbitrarily adjust the ozone concentration in the guest room 10. By operating the ozone generator 21 and releasing ozone into the guest room 10, the control unit 22 can inactivate pathogens in the guest room 10 (killing bacteria or breaking down viruses to eliminate the infectivity of pathogens) and disinfect the guest room 10.

[0034] The following describes the overview of disinfection of the guest room 10 by the disinfection system 20 (control unit 22).

[0035] Disinfection of the guest room 10 by the disinfection system 20 is initiated by instructions from the cleaning staff. More specifically, once the cleaning staff and / or manager have completed the preparation work for the changeover, they operate a terminal to input the check-in time for the guest room 10 into the control unit 22. The control unit 22 controls the ozone generator 21, etc., so that the disinfection of the guest room 10 is completed by the input check-in time. More specifically, the control unit 22 controls the ozone generator 21, etc., so that the CT value (Concentration-Time Value) and the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 meet predetermined conditions until the disinfection of the guest room 10 is completed.

[0036] Specifically, the CT value is the product of the ozone concentration (ppm) and the exposure time (min). The exposure time refers to the duration the object is exposed to ozone. By determining the CT value, it is possible to understand the extent to which pathogens have been inactivated. For example, a CT value of 60 indicates that 90% or more of a given pathogen has been inactivated. The relationship between the CT value and the percentage of pathogen inactivation is determined appropriately for each pathogen through experiments and other means.

[0037] The control unit 22 pre-sets a target value for the CT value (for example, 60) based on the aforementioned relationship regarding the pathogens to be inactivated. The control unit 22 controls the ozone generator 21, etc., so that the CT value reaches the target value (satisfies predetermined conditions) by the time disinfection of the guest room 10 is completed.

[0038] Furthermore, ozone can be harmful to the human body depending on its concentration. Considering these effects on the human body, workplace environment standards (standards that should be maintained) have been established for ozone concentration. Specifically, a workplace environment standard of 0.1 ppm has been established. When disinfecting a guest room 10, the control unit 22 reduces the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 to below the workplace environment standard (to meet the specified conditions). Specifically, the control unit 22 reduces the ozone concentration to 0.05 ppm or less. Hereinafter, the ozone concentration at the time of completion of ozone disinfection (0.05 ppm) will be referred to as the "ozone concentration at completion."

[0039] Thus, when disinfecting the guest room 10, the control unit 22 raises the CT value to the target value and reduces the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 to below the completion ozone concentration. This inactivates pathogens and allows users to enter the guest room 10. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 22 is configured to execute multiple operation patterns P10 for disinfecting the guest room 10.

[0040] Below, we will explain the driving pattern P10 with reference to Figures 2 to 4.

[0041] Operating pattern P10 refers to the process of controlling the bathroom ventilation fan 13a and the ozone generator 21 according to predetermined settings. Operating pattern P10 includes rapid pattern P11, rapid exhaust pattern P12, standard pattern P13, and standard exhaust pattern P14. Figures 3 and 4 show the simulation results of the relationship between the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 and time when the execution of rapid pattern P11, etc., is started at 11:40.

[0042] The rapid pattern P11 shown in Figures 2 and 3(a) is a pattern that completes ozone disinfection in a relatively short time (compared to the standard pattern P13, etc., described later). In rapid pattern P11, the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 is raised to a relatively high concentration, thereby reaching the target CT value in a short time. Specifically, when executing rapid pattern P11, the control unit 22 starts the operation of the ozone generator 21 (at 11:40 in Figure 3(a)) and releases ozone into the guest room 10 to increase the ozone concentration. The control unit 22 continues to release ozone for a predetermined time, raising the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 to a predetermined concentration. Specifically, the control unit 22 raises the ozone concentration to approximately 1 ppm so that it does not significantly exceed the working environment standard (0.1 ppm). Hereafter, the time during which ozone is released into the guest room 10 will be referred to as the "inactivation time". Furthermore, the ozone concentration (target concentration) that is increased during the inactivation time in rapid exhaust pattern P11 and rapid exhaust pattern P12 described later is referred to as the "first target concentration."

[0043] The control unit 22 stops the ozone generator 21 when the ozone concentration in the passenger cabin 10 reaches the first target concentration (at 12:50 in Figure 3(a)), and then decreases the ozone concentration in the passenger cabin 10. When the ozone concentration in the passenger cabin 10 decreases to below the completion ozone concentration (at 14:10 in Figure 3(a)), the control unit 22 terminates the rapid pattern P11. Hereinafter, the time from when the ozone generator 21 is stopped until the ozone concentration decreases to below the completion ozone concentration will be referred to as the "waiting time". The sum of the inactivation time and the waiting time (the time from the start to the end of operation pattern P10) will be referred to as the "total time".

[0044] In rapid pattern P11, the inactivation time and waiting time are pre-set so that the CT value reaches the target value during the waiting time and the ozone concentration in cabin 10 is below the ozone concentration at completion. Specifically, the inactivation time and other parameters are set by simulating rapid pattern P11 using the following formula 1.

number

[0045] When simulating the rapid pattern P11 using the above formula 1, substitute the volume of cabin 10 for volume R. Also, substitute the number of air changes in 24-hour ventilation of cabin 10 for ventilation rate n. Furthermore, substitute the amount of ozone generated by the ozone generator 21 for ozone generation amount M. Also, substitute the half-life value of ozone in cabin 10 for half-life T.

[0046] In the above formula 1, the ozone concentration is calculated taking into account the effect of 24-hour ventilation in guest room 10. Specifically, as described above, guest room 10 is ventilated 24 hours a day by the bathroom exhaust fan 13a. Therefore, when ozone is released into guest room 10, some of the ozone is drawn in by the bathroom exhaust fan 13a and discharged outside guest room 10, while outside air is introduced into guest room 10, causing the ozone concentration in guest room 10 to decrease. In the above formula 1, assuming that the ozone concentration of the outside air is 0 ppm, the effect of the 24-hour ventilation (the degree of decrease in ozone concentration during the period defined by time step t) is calculated as "C0*R / R+nRt".

[0047] Furthermore, in formula 1 above, the theoretical value of the ozone concentration (the theoretical value of the ozone concentration that increases due to the operation of the ozone generator 21) is calculated using "M / R * 2.14". By adding this theoretical value of the ozone concentration to the effect of 24-hour ventilation (C0 * R / R + nRt), the ozone concentration when ozone is released while the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is operating is determined. This summation result does not reflect the effect of ozone naturally decreasing (becoming inactive).

[0048] Therefore, in formula 1 above, "(1 / 2) t / T By multiplying the above summation results by the above formula, the ozone concentration in guest room 10, taking into account the effects of 24-hour ventilation and natural reduction, is determined.

[0049] Figure 3(a) shows the results of simulating the rapid pattern P11 using the above formula 1 to determine the inactivation time and waiting time for the rapid pattern P11. In Figure 3(a), the ozone generator 21 is started at 11:40, and the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 rises to the first target concentration (approximately 1 ppm) at 12:50 (see "Inactivation Time"). Also in Figure 3(a), the ozone generator 21 is stopped at this time, and the ozone concentration drops to below the completion ozone concentration (0.05 ppm) at 14:10 (see "Waiting Time"). In Figure 3(a), the area under the graph (CT value) in the range from 11:40 to 14:10 exceeds the target value.

[0050] As shown in Figures 2 and 3(a), in the rapid pattern P11, based on the simulation results described above, the inactivation time (11:40 to 12:50 in Figure 3(a)) is set to "70 minutes". Also, the waiting time (12:50 to 14:10 in Figure 3(a)) is set to "80 minutes". Thus, the total time for the rapid pattern P11 is "150 minutes".

[0051] The rapid exhaust pattern P12 shown in Figures 2 and 3(b) is a pattern that performs ozone sterilization in a shorter time than the rapid pattern P11. The rapid exhaust pattern P12 differs from the rapid pattern P11 in that the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is operated at a higher airflow ("high") than the "24-hour ventilation" setting during the standby time.

[0052] Figure 3(b) shows the results of simulating the rapid exhaust pattern P12 using the above formula 1 to determine the inactivation time and waiting time for the rapid exhaust pattern P12. In the rapid exhaust pattern P12, ozone is drawn into the bathroom exhaust fan 13a with the airflow set to "high" during the waiting time, promoting its discharge to the outside of the guest room 10, and the ozone concentration becomes below the completion ozone concentration in a shorter time than in the rapid pattern P11. For this reason, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the waiting time for the rapid exhaust pattern P12 is set to "40 minutes", which is shorter than that for the rapid pattern P11. The inactivation time for the rapid exhaust pattern P12 is set to "70 minutes", the same as the rapid pattern P11. Thus, the total time for the rapid exhaust pattern P12 is "110 minutes". When simulating the rapid exhaust pattern P12 using the above formula 1, when calculating the ozone concentration during the waiting time, the number of ventilations n is substituted with the number of ventilations when the airflow of the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is set to "high".

[0053] The standard pattern P13 shown in Figures 2 and 4(a) is a pattern that performs sterilization at a lower ozone concentration than the rapid pattern P11 and the rapid exhaust pattern P12. When the standard pattern P13 is performed, the control unit 22 releases ozone into the passenger room 10 to raise the ozone concentration in the passenger room 10 to a concentration lower than the first target concentration (the concentration raised in the rapid pattern P11, etc.). The control unit 22 then appropriately adjusts the amount of ozone generated and maintains this ozone concentration for a predetermined time (see the inactivation time shown in Figure 4(a)).

[0054] The control unit 22 stops the operation of the ozone generator 21 after maintaining the ozone concentration for a predetermined time, and reduces the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 to below the completion ozone concentration (see the waiting time shown in Figure 4(a)). In standard pattern P13, the ozone concentration is maintained during the inactivation time so that the CT value reaches the target value. According to standard pattern P13, disinfection of the guest room 10 can be performed with an ozone concentration that has less impact on the human body than rapid pattern P11. Hereinafter, the ozone concentration (target concentration) maintained during the inactivation time in standard pattern P13 and standard exhaust pattern P14 described later will be referred to as the "second target concentration".

[0055] The second target concentration is set based on the workplace environment standard (0.05 ppm) and the first target concentration (approximately 1 ppm). Specifically, it is set at 0.5 ppm, which is about midway between the workplace environment standard and the first target concentration.

[0056] Figure 4(a) shows the results of simulating standard pattern P13 using the above formula 1 to determine the inactivation time and waiting time for standard pattern P13. In standard pattern P13, the ozone concentration in cabin 10 is maintained at the second target concentration, which is lower than the first target concentration. Therefore, as shown in Figures 2 and 4(a), the inactivation time for standard pattern P13 is set to "130 minutes," which is longer than that of rapid pattern P11 and rapid exhaust pattern P12. The waiting time is set to "50 minutes," which is shorter than that of rapid pattern P11 and rapid exhaust pattern P12. Thus, the total time for standard pattern P13 is "180 minutes." When simulating standard pattern P13 using the above formula 1, the ozone generation amount M is appropriately substituted with the value necessary to maintain the second target concentration at the timing of maintaining the ozone concentration.

[0057] The standard exhaust pattern P14 shown in Figures 2 and 4(b) is a pattern that performs ozone sterilization in a shorter time than the standard pattern P13. The difference between the standard exhaust pattern P14 and the standard pattern P13 is that the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is operated at a higher airflow ("high") than the "24-hour ventilation" setting during the standby time.

[0058] Figure 4(b) shows the results of simulating the standard exhaust pattern P14 using the above formula 1 to determine the inactivation time and standby time for the standard exhaust pattern P14. In the standard exhaust pattern P14, the airflow from the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is increased during the standby time. Therefore, as shown in Figures 2 and 4, the standby time for the standard exhaust pattern P14 is set to "30 minutes", which is shorter than that of the standard pattern P13. The inactivation time is set to "130 minutes", the same as the standard pattern P13. Thus, the total time for the standard exhaust pattern P14 is "160 minutes". When simulating the standard exhaust pattern P14 using the above formula 1, when calculating the ozone concentration during the standby time, the number of ventilations n is substituted with the number of ventilations when the airflow from the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is set to "high".

[0059] The control unit 22 pre-sets priorities for the operation pattern P10 configured as described above. Priority is an indicator of the priority level for executing operation pattern P10. Higher priority items are executed with greater priority. The control unit 22 sets priorities based on the effects of ozone on the human body and energy consumption. Furthermore, the control unit 22 prioritizes the effects on the human body when setting priorities, considering energy consumption as the primary factor.

[0060] Specifically, standard pattern P13 and standard exhaust pattern P14 disinfect at a lower secondary target concentration than rapid pattern P11 and rapid exhaust pattern P12, thus minimizing the impact of ozone on the human body even if someone enters guest room 10. In addition, standard pattern P13 consumes less energy than standard exhaust pattern P14 because the airflow of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is lower. The control unit 22 sets the priority of standard pattern P13, which has less impact on the human body and consumes less energy, to "1" among these operating patterns P10. The control unit 22 also sets the priority of standard exhaust pattern P14, which has less impact on the human body, to "2".

[0061] Furthermore, the control unit 22 sets the priority of the rapid exhaust pattern P11, which has a lower airflow (energy consumption) from the bathroom ventilation fan 13a, to "3" among the rapid exhaust pattern P11 and the rapid exhaust pattern P12. The control unit 22 also sets the priority of the remaining rapid exhaust pattern P12 to "4".

[0062] The operation of the disinfection system 20 will be explained below.

[0063] The disinfection system 20 is activated when a cleaning staff member or manager enters the check-in time after completing the preparation work (cleaning work) for replacement. When the check-in time is entered, the control unit 22 calculates the remaining time until check-in (the remaining time until the replacement period ends) based on the input result and the current time. Then, based on the remaining time and priority, the control unit 22 determines one of the operation patterns P10 shown in Figure 2 to be executed.

[0064] For example, if the remaining time is "160 minutes," the control unit 22 will execute the operation pattern that has the highest priority and can complete the disinfection within that remaining time. Specifically, it will execute the standard exhaust pattern P14, which has the highest priority among the operation patterns P10 that result in a total time of 160 minutes or less.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, if the remaining time is "180 minutes" or more, the control unit 22 executes the standard pattern P13, which has the highest priority.

[0066] Furthermore, if there are no operational patterns P10 that can be executed within the remaining time (i.e., the remaining time is shorter than the total time of the rapid exhaust pattern P12 which can disinfect as quickly as possible), the control unit 22 will operate the ozone generator 21 at a constant ozone concentration below the working environment standard.

[0067] Furthermore, if the operation of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a cannot be controlled due to its specifications, etc. (i.e., the rapid exhaust pattern P12 and standard exhaust pattern P14 cannot be executed), the control unit 22 will determine which operating pattern to execute from among the standard pattern P13 and rapid pattern P11 based on the remaining time and priority. For example, if the remaining time is 180 minutes or more, the control unit 22 will execute the standard pattern P13. If the remaining time is 150 minutes or more but less than 180 minutes, the control unit 22 will execute the rapid pattern P11. If the remaining time is less than 150 minutes, the ozone generator 21 will be operated continuously at an ozone concentration below the working environment standard.

[0068] Thus, with the disinfection system 20, by inputting the check-in time into the control unit 22, the ozone generator 21 can be operated so that disinfection is completed by the check-in time. This makes it easy (with simple operation) to disinfect guest rooms 10, even if the check-out and check-in times vary from day to day. In addition, the guest rooms 10 can also be deodorized using ozone.

[0069] Furthermore, the control unit 22 can disinfect the guest room 10 with an appropriate operating pattern that takes into account the effects of ozone on the human body and energy consumption by executing an operating pattern according to the priority.

[0070] Furthermore, the control unit 22 uses the above formula 1 to simulate and determine the inactivation time and waiting time such that the CT value reaches the target value and the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 is below the completion ozone concentration. This makes it possible to easily obtain the inactivation time and waiting time (without conducting experiments).

[0071] As described above, the disinfection system 20 according to the first embodiment is a disinfection system 20 that disinfects a guest room 10 of a hotel 1 (a space in the building used by different users) during the changeover period of the guest room 10, and comprises disinfection means (ozone generator 21 and bathroom ventilation fan 13a) for disinfecting the guest room 10, including an ozone generator 21 (disinfection device) capable of releasing gaseous disinfection components (ozone) into the guest room 10, and a control unit 22 (control means) that determines one of a plurality of pre-set operating patterns P10 of the disinfection means in accordance with a priority order based on predetermined criteria (impact on the human body and energy consumption) so that disinfection of the guest room 10 is completed in the remaining period until the end of the changeover period.

[0072] This configuration allows for proper disinfection of the guest rooms 10 according to predetermined standards. Furthermore, disinfection of the guest rooms 10 can be easily performed.

[0073] Furthermore, the timing of the operation of the ozone generator 21 is set such that the remaining period includes a first period (inactivation time) during which the disinfecting components are released into the guest room 10 by the operation of the ozone generator 21, and a second period (waiting time) during which the disinfecting components released in the first period are discharged from or inactivated in the guest room 10 by the stopping of the operation of the ozone generator 21.

[0074] By configuring it in this way, the disinfectant components inactivate pathogens, and the concentration of the disinfectant components in the guest room 10 is reduced during the remaining period, thereby optimizing the operation of the ozone generator 21.

[0075] Furthermore, the multiple operating patterns P10 include a first operating pattern (standard pattern P13 and standard exhaust pattern P14) in which, during the first period, the target component concentration in the passenger room 10 due to the disinfecting component is set to a first concentration (second target concentration) based on a predetermined environmental standard (work environment standard), and a second operating pattern (rapid pattern P11 and rapid exhaust pattern P12) in which the target component concentration is set to a second concentration (first target concentration) that is higher than the first concentration, and the first operating pattern is set to have a higher priority than the second operating pattern (Figure 2).

[0076] By configuring the system in this way, the first operating pattern, which performs disinfection at a low concentration of disinfectant components in the guest room 10, is prioritized, thereby achieving both disinfection of the guest room 10 and preventing the concentration of disinfectant components from becoming relatively high.

[0077] Hotel 1 according to the first embodiment is one form of building according to the present invention. Furthermore, the guest room 10 according to the first embodiment is one form of implementing the space used by different users according to the present invention. Furthermore, the ozone generator 21 according to the first embodiment is one form of the sterilization device according to the present invention. Furthermore, the ozone generator 21 and bathroom ventilation fan 13a according to the first embodiment represent one form of the sterilization means according to the present invention. Furthermore, the control unit 22 according to the first embodiment is one form of implementation of the control means according to the present invention.

[0078] Although the first embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention as described in the claims.

[0079] For example, although the disinfection system 20 is described as being applicable to Hotel 1, it is not limited to this and may be applied to other accommodation facilities such as inns. Furthermore, the disinfection system 20 may be applied to other buildings other than accommodation facilities. In addition, the disinfection system 20 only needs to disinfect spaces used by different users, and may disinfect spaces other than guest rooms 10 (for example, conference rooms or banquet halls).

[0080] Furthermore, although the disinfection of guest room 10 is to be performed using ozone, the disinfecting component is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of inactivating pathogens. The disinfecting component may be, for example, ions or hypochlorous acid. It is desirable that the disinfecting component has a high disinfecting effect, such as ozone as in the first embodiment. This allows the disinfection of guest room 10 to be performed in a short time.

[0081] Furthermore, although the ozone generator 21 is provided to be permanently installed in the guest room 10, it is not limited to this, and for example, a portable ozone generator may be installed in the guest room 10 when disinfection work is performed.

[0082] Furthermore, the ozone generator 21 is not limited to being installed in the bedroom 11, but may also be installed in, for example, the hallway 12 or the unit bathroom 13.

[0083] Furthermore, the number of operating patterns P10 is not particularly limited, and an appropriate number of operating patterns P10 may be set according to the volume of the passenger compartment 10, etc.

[0084] Furthermore, the values ​​for the inactivation time and standby time in operating pattern P10 are not particularly limited and may be changed as appropriate depending on, for example, the volume of the passenger compartment 10 or the specifications of the ozone generator 21.

[0085] Furthermore, in operating pattern P10, the CT value was brought to the target value during the waiting period, but the timing of bringing the CT value to the target value can be any timing in the total time. For example, the CT value may be brought to the target value at the time when the inactivation period ends.

[0086] Furthermore, while the inactivation time and waiting time were set based on the simulation results using Equation 1, they are not limited to this and may be set based on experimental results or other factors.

[0087] Furthermore, the control unit 22 prioritizes the effects of ozone on the human body over energy consumption when setting priorities, but there are no particular limitations on how priorities are set. For example, the priority may be set so that the rapid pattern P11 and standard pattern P13, which do not change the airflow of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a to "high", are higher in priority than the rapid exhaust pattern P12 and standard exhaust pattern P14, which do change the airflow of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a to "high".

[0088] Thus, the disinfection means includes a bathroom ventilation fan 13a (ventilation fan) that promotes the discharge of the disinfecting component (ozone) released into the guest room 10, and the plurality of operating patterns P10 include a third operating pattern (rapid exhaust pattern P12 and standard exhaust pattern P14) that operates the bathroom ventilation fan 13a at a first airflow rate ("strong") during at least one of the first period and the second period (the second period in the first embodiment), and a fourth operating pattern (rapid pattern P11 and standard pattern P13) that operates the bathroom ventilation fan 13a at a second airflow rate ("24-hour ventilation") which is less than the first airflow rate, wherein the fourth operating pattern is set to have a higher priority than the third operating pattern.

[0089] By configuring the system in this way, the second operating pattern, which consumes less energy, is prioritized, allowing for both disinfection of the 10 guest rooms and energy saving.

[0090] Furthermore, while the control unit 22 determines the operating pattern based on the input of the check-in time, it is not limited to this, and may determine the operating pattern based on the input of other information. For example, the control unit 22 may determine the operating pattern based on the input of information notifying the completion of cleaning work from the terminal of a cleaning staff member and / or manager. In this case, the control unit 22 can obtain the check-in time from a server or the like installed in the hotel 1 and determine the operating pattern based on the obtained result. With this configuration, the cleaning staff and / or manager can avoid the trouble of checking the check-in time of the guest room 10, and disinfection of the guest room 10 can be performed with simpler operation.

[0091] Next, with reference to Figures 5 to 10, the disinfection system 120 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0092] The disinfection system 120 according to the second embodiment differs significantly from the disinfection system 20 according to the first embodiment in that it creates a work schedule S (see Figure 10) and is capable of executing a two-stage disinfection pattern P25 (see Figure 7). The work schedule S is information that shows the schedule of work (preparation work for replacement and disinfection work) to be performed in each guest room 10 during the replacement period. The differences will be explained below.

[0093] First, the configuration for creating the work schedule S will be explained. The control unit 122 of the disinfection system 120 according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 5 is configured to send and receive signals with the management system 130 of the hotel 1.

[0094] The management system 130 manages information about Hotel 1. The management system 130 is built on a designated server, for example. Various information is entered into the management system 130 from terminals installed at the front desk of Hotel 1. For example, the check-in and check-out times for each guest room 10, information about the guests (for example, the number of guests scheduled to stay in guest room 10, their ages and addresses, etc.), and the scheduled working hours of cleaning staff are entered.

[0095] The management system 130 can create information regarding the turnover period for each guest room 10 based on input results such as check-in time. The information regarding the turnover period refers to information that allows the turnover period to be determined for each guest room 10. Figure 8 shows an example of such information. The time information shown in Figure 8 includes time information that correlates whether a user is currently using the guest room 10 (before check-out), whether the next user is scheduled to use the guest room 10 (scheduled to check in), the time period, and the identification information of the guest room 10 (room number in Figure 8).

[0096] The control unit 122 can receive information necessary to create a work schedule S from the management system 130 configured as described above. Specifically, the control unit 122 can receive time information, user information (number of users, age, address, etc.), and the scheduled working hours of cleaning staff, as shown in Figure 8. Based on the received work schedule information, the control unit 122 can calculate the maximum number of rooms that can be cleaned in the same time period (hereinafter referred to as "maximum number of rooms to be cleaned"). In addition, based on the received user information, the control unit 122 can evaluate the possibility of infection (infection risk) in each room 10. Furthermore, as will be described later, the control unit 122 can create a work schedule S shown in Figure 10 by assigning cleaning time (time period for preparing for room changes), disinfection time (time period for disinfecting the rooms 10 with ozone), and the operation pattern P20 to be executed to the time information shown in Figure 8. The control unit 122 can also present the created work schedule S to relevant personnel at Hotel 1 by displaying it on a predetermined display device.

[0097] Next, the double sterilization pattern P25 will be described. As shown in Figure 6, the operation pattern P20 of the second embodiment includes the double sterilization pattern P25 in addition to the operation pattern P10 (rapid pattern P11, etc.) of the first embodiment.

[0098] The two-stage disinfection pattern P25 shown in Figures 6 and 7 is a pattern in which the guest room 10 is disinfected before and after the cleaning work (a total of two times). Figure 7 shows the results of a simulation of the two-stage disinfection pattern P25 using the above formula 1. When the two-stage disinfection pattern P25 is executed, the control unit 122 disinfects the guest room 10 twice using the rapid exhaust pattern P12 (see Figure 3(b)). More specifically, the control unit 122 performs the first disinfection (rapid exhaust pattern P12) (from 11:00 to 12:50 in Figure 7) and waits until a predetermined time has elapsed (from 12:50 to 13:10 in Figure 7). Then, the control unit 122 performs the second disinfection (from 13:10 to 15:00 in Figure 5). Thus, the two-stage disinfection pattern P25 includes two inactivation periods and two waiting periods (repeated twice).

[0099] In the two-stage disinfection pattern P25, during the waiting period (between the first and second disinfections), the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 falls below the completion ozone concentration. Therefore, in the two-stage disinfection pattern P25, cleaning work on the guest room 10 can be performed during the waiting period (see "Cleaning Time" in Figure 7). The control unit 122 can arbitrarily set the length of the waiting period. Thus, the total time for the two-stage disinfection pattern P25 is the sum of the two inactivation periods, the two waiting periods, and the cleaning work (waiting time).

[0100] The control unit 122 sets priorities for operation patterns P20, including the double sterilization pattern P25, based on the risk of infection to cleaning staff, the effects of ozone on the human body, and energy consumption. Furthermore, the control unit 122 prioritizes the risk of infection among the risk of infection, the effects on the human body, and energy consumption.

[0101] Specifically, the double disinfection pattern P25 disinfects the guest rooms 10 before and after the cleaning work. Therefore, the double disinfection pattern P25 can reduce the risk of infection for cleaning staff compared to the rapid pattern P11, rapid exhaust pattern P12, standard pattern P13, and standard exhaust pattern P14, which disinfect after the cleaning work. Thus, the double disinfection pattern P25 is the pattern that can reduce the risk of infection the most among the operating patterns P20. The control unit 122 sets the priority of the double disinfection pattern P25 to the highest level, "1".

[0102] Furthermore, the control unit 122 sets priorities for the remaining rapid pattern P11, rapid exhaust pattern P12, standard pattern P13, and standard exhaust pattern P14 based on their impact on the human body and energy consumption, similar to the first embodiment. Specifically, the control unit 122 sets the priority of standard pattern P13 to "2". The control unit 122 also sets the priority of standard exhaust pattern P14 to "3". The control unit 122 also sets the priority of rapid pattern P11 to "4". The control unit 122 also sets the priority of rapid exhaust pattern P12 to "5".

[0103] The following describes the process by which the control unit 122 creates the work schedule S.

[0104] The process of creating the work schedule S is performed in advance (before the user checks out). When the control unit 122 starts the creation process, it receives the information necessary for creating the work schedule S (time information shown in Figure 8, information about the user, and the cleaning staff's scheduled working hours) from the management system 130. The control unit 122 calculates the maximum number of cleanings for each time period. The control unit 122 also calculates the changeover period (time from check-out to check-in) for each of the 10 guest rooms based on the time information shown in Figure 8.

[0105] The control unit 122 then allocates cleaning time to each guest room 10 so that the cleaning work is completed within the calculated replacement period. At this time, the control unit 122 allocates cleaning time taking into consideration disinfection of the guest room 10. Subsequently, the control unit 122 assigns the highest priority operation pattern and also allocates disinfection time according to that operation pattern. The allocation of cleaning time, disinfection time, and operation patterns will be explained below.

[0106] The following explains the allocation of cleaning time. In the following, taking into consideration the burden on cleaning staff, a cleaning time of two hours will be allocated, with exceptions. In exceptional cases, a shorter cleaning time of one hour (enough time to avoid excessive burden on cleaning staff and to complete the cleaning work on schedule) will be allocated.

[0107] First, let's explain the process of allocating cleaning time. The control unit 122 provisionally allocates cleaning time according to the guest room 10 changeover period. Then, the control unit 122 adjusts the cleaning time based on the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned so that cleaning is completed within the changeover period. In this way, the control unit 122 completes the allocation of cleaning time. The process of allocating cleaning work will be explained in detail below.

[0108] When provisionally allocating cleaning time, the control unit 122 determines whether the guest room 10 has a turnover period of 6 hours or more. If the guest room 10 has a turnover period of 6 hours or more, the control unit 122 provisionally allocates cleaning time so that the guest room 10 can be disinfected using the highest priority double disinfection pattern P25. Specifically, the highest priority double disinfection pattern P25 requires 110 minutes for each disinfection. Therefore, when allocating 2 hours of cleaning time to the time information shown in Figure 8, the control unit 122 allocates cleaning time 2 hours after check-out time for guest rooms 10 with a turnover period of 6 hours or more (see room 201 shown in Figure 9). This ensures a 2-hour gap before and after the cleaning time, allowing the cleaning time to be allocated so that the guest room 10 can be disinfected using the highest priority double disinfection pattern P25.

[0109] On the other hand, if the guest room 10 changeover period is less than 6 hours, the control unit 122 provisionally allocates cleaning time so that the guest room 10 can be disinfected using a standard pattern P13 or lower with a priority of 2nd place or lower. Specifically, if the changeover period is less than 6 hours, allocating 2 hours of cleaning time would not allow for 2 hours of free time before and after that cleaning time, making it unnecessary to execute the disinfection pattern P25 twice. For this reason, if the guest room 10 changeover period is less than 6 hours, the control unit 122 allocates 2 hours of cleaning time immediately after check-out. In this way, the control unit 122 maximizes the time between the end of cleaning time and check-in time, allocating cleaning time so that the guest room 10 can be disinfected using a higher-priority operation pattern (standard pattern P13, etc.).

[0110] If a cabin 10 with a 3-hour changeover period is allocated 2 hours for cleaning, the remaining free time after cleaning will be 1 hour. This makes it impossible to allocate the rapid exhaust pattern P12 (110 minutes), which has the shortest total time among the operating patterns P20, and consequently, it becomes impossible to assign an operating pattern at all. Therefore, the control unit 122 allocates 1 hour of cleaning time (the lower limit of cleaning time) as an exception to the cabin 10 with a 3-hour changeover period, ensuring a 2-hour free time after cleaning. In this way, the control unit 122 provisionally allocates cleaning time so that an operating pattern can be assigned even to a cabin 10 with a 3-hour changeover period. However, if the changeover period is 2 hours or less, allocating 1 hour of cleaning time will still make it impossible to assign an operating pattern. For this reason, the control unit 122 allocates cleaning time (up to 2 hours) for the entire changeover period when the changeover period is 2 hours or less. In this case, the control unit 122 also operates the ozone generator 21 at a constant ozone concentration below the working environment standard.

[0111] After provisionally allocating cleaning time in this manner, the control unit 122 adjusts the cleaning time. Specifically, the control unit 122 compares the number of rooms 10 to which cleaning time has been allocated with the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned for each time period, and adjusts the cleaning time if the number of rooms 10 exceeds the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned. At this time, the control unit 122 determines, based on predetermined criteria, some rooms 10 from among the rooms 10 to which cleaning time has been allocated in excess of the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned to adjust the cleaning time. The control unit 122 then adjusts the cleaning time of the determined rooms 10 so that it does not overlap with the time period in which the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned exceeds the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned.

[0112] For example, if the number of guest rooms 10 exceeds the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned, the control unit 122 evaluates the infection risk of the cleaning staff in each guest room 10 and, based on the evaluation result (predetermined criteria), adjusts the cleaning times of guest rooms 10 with a low infection risk among those guest rooms 10 that can be disinfected twice using the disinfection pattern P25.

[0113] Specifically, in rooms 10 with a small number of guests who have checked out, the probability of the virus being introduced (infection risk) is lower than in rooms 10 with a large number of guests. Also, in rooms 10 checked out by guests from areas where the infectious disease is not widespread, the probability of the virus being introduced is lower than in rooms 10 checked out by guests from areas where the infectious disease is widespread. The control unit 122 evaluates the infection risk as described above based on the guest information and staggers the cleaning times of rooms 10 that have a low infection risk and can be cleaned using the double disinfection pattern P25 (with a changeover period of 6 hours or more). In this way, as shown in Figure 9, the control unit 122 maintains a state where the double disinfection pattern P25 can be executed in rooms 10 with a high infection risk, and adjusts the cleaning times so that the number of rooms 10 does not exceed the maximum number of rooms to be cleaned (so that the cleaning work is completed within the changeover period), and completes the allocation of cleaning times.

[0114] Next, the allocation of disinfection time and operating patterns will be explained. Once the control unit 122 has completed the allocation of cleaning time, it allocates disinfection time and operating patterns to each guest room 10 so that the operating pattern with the highest priority can be executed during the time other than the cleaning time (free time) within the changeover period. Specifically, if there is free time of 2 hours or more before and after the disinfection time, the control unit 122 allocates the highest priority 2-time disinfection pattern P25 and also allocates 2 hours of disinfection time before and after the cleaning time. On the other hand, if there is not free time of 2 hours or more before and after the cleaning time, the control unit 122 allocates an operating pattern with a priority of 2nd place or lower according to the free time after the cleaning time, and also allocates disinfection time according to the total time of that operating pattern.

[0115] The control unit 122 allocates cleaning time, disinfection time, etc., in this manner to create the work schedule S shown in Figure 10. This work schedule S is displayed on a predetermined display device.

[0116] In this way, the control unit 122 can set (assign) cleaning time, disinfection time, and operation pattern before check-out, thereby providing information (work schedule S) that allows cleaning and disinfection of each guest room 10 to be completed during the turnover period. This ensures that cleaning and disinfection of each guest room 10 are carried out appropriately.

[0117] Furthermore, depending on the allocated disinfection time, the guest rooms 10 can be disinfected using the optimal operating pattern P20 (the operating pattern that completes disinfection within the disinfection time and has the highest priority).

[0118] As described above, the plurality of operating patterns P20 in the second embodiment include a seventh operating pattern (double sterilization pattern P25) in which the first period (inactivation time) and the second period (waiting time) are repeated twice with a predetermined interval between them, and the seventh operating pattern is given a higher priority than the other operating patterns (rapid pattern P11, rapid exhaust pattern P12, standard pattern P13, and standard exhaust pattern P14) (Figure 6).

[0119] By configuring the system in this way, the seventh operating pattern (double disinfection pattern P25) is prioritized, making it easier for cleaning staff to perform replacement preparation work (cleaning work) in the disinfected guest room 10.

[0120] Furthermore, the space is each guest room 10 of Hotel 1 (accommodation facility), and the control unit 122 assigns one of the multiple operating patterns P20 to each guest room 10 based on predetermined assignment information, which includes at least information regarding the priority and information regarding the rotation period of each guest room 10 (time information shown in Figure 8).

[0121] By configuring it in this way, a single operating pattern can be appropriately assigned to each of the 10 guest rooms to suit their respective rotation periods.

[0122] Furthermore, the allocation information includes information regarding the number of guest rooms (maximum number of rooms to be cleaned) in which preparation work for room changes can be performed by workers (cleaners) during the same time period.

[0123] By configuring it in this way, one operating pattern P20 can be assigned to each passenger compartment 10, taking into account the preparation work required for the operators to change compartments.

[0124] Hotel 1 according to the second embodiment is one form of implementing the accommodation facility according to the present invention.

[0125] Although a second embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention as described in the claims.

[0126] For example, the control unit 122 allocated cleaning time, etc., before allocating disinfection time and operation pattern, but the order in which cleaning time, etc., are allocated is not particularly limited.

[0127] Furthermore, while the control unit 122 was the device responsible for allocating cleaning and disinfection time, it is not limited to this, and other devices (for example, the management system 130, etc.) may also be used.

[0128] Next, with reference to Figure 11, the sterilization system 220 according to the third embodiment will be described. The arrows shown in Figure 11(a) schematically represent the flow of ozone.

[0129] As shown in Figure 11(a), the unit bathroom section 13 is separated from the bedroom 11 and the passageway 12. Therefore, even if ozone is released from the ozone generator 21 in the bedroom 11, the ozone may not spread sufficiently throughout the unit bathroom section 13, potentially resulting in uneven ozone concentration.

[0130] The disinfection system 220 according to the third embodiment differs significantly from the disinfection system 20 according to the first embodiment in that it suppresses unevenness in ozone concentration by executing a bathroom disinfection pattern P36 in which the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is operated at a greater airflow than 24-hour ventilation during the inactivation time (the time during which the ozone generator 21 is operated). The differences will be explained below.

[0131] First, let's describe the bathroom ventilation fan 13a. As mentioned above, the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is configured to allow for stepwise adjustment of the airflow (to "24-hour ventilation," "low," and "high"). The bathroom ventilation fan 13a can change the airflow based on signals from the control unit 222.

[0132] Next, we will explain the bathroom disinfection pattern P36 shown in Figure 11(b). Figure 11(b) is the result of simulating the bathroom disinfection pattern P36 using Equation 2, which will be described later.

[0133] Bathroom disinfection pattern P36 controls the bathroom exhaust fan 13a, etc., so that the CT value in the unit bath section 13 reaches a target value. When the control unit 222 executes bathroom disinfection pattern P36 (at 11:40 in Figure 11(b)), it operates the ozone generator 21 and the bathroom exhaust fan 13a at a "low" setting, which has a higher airflow than "24-hour ventilation," to draw the ozone released into the bedroom 11 into the unit bath section 13 (see the dashed arrow in Figure 11(a)). As a result, the control unit 222 increases the ozone concentration in the unit bath section 13 (at 13:20 in Figure 11(b)). The control unit 222 continues the release and draw-in of ozone for a predetermined time, raising the ozone concentration in the unit bath section 13 to a predetermined concentration (approximately 0.7 ppm) (see "Inactivation Time" shown in Figure 11(b)). This allows the control unit 222 to suppress uneven concentration in the unit bath section 13 and distribute ozone throughout the unit bath section 13.

[0134] When the control unit 222 raises the ozone concentration in the unit bathroom 13 to a predetermined level, it stops the operation of the ozone generator 21. Meanwhile, the control unit 222 does not return the airflow of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a to "24-hour ventilation," but continues to operate it at "low." In this way, the control unit 222 continues to operate the bathroom ventilation fan 13a at "low" throughout the inactivation and neutralization period, continuously drawing ozone into the unit bathroom 13. When the ozone concentration in the bedroom 11 and the unit bathroom 13 is reduced to below the completion ozone concentration (at 14:30 in Figure 11(b)), the control unit 222 terminates the bathroom sterilization pattern P36.

[0135] In bathroom disinfection pattern P36, the inactivation time and waiting time are pre-set so that the CT value in the unit bath area 13 reaches the target value, and the ozone concentration in the bedroom 11 and the unit bath area 13 is below the completion ozone concentration. Specifically, the inactivation time and other settings are set by simulating bathroom disinfection pattern P36 using the following formula 2.

number

[0136] In the above formula 2, C'2 is the ozone concentration [ppm] in the unit bathroom section 13. C2 is the initial ozone concentration [ppm] in the unit bathroom section 13. R2 is the volume [m³] of the unit bathroom section 13. 3 C1 is the ozone concentration [ppm] in bedroom 11. R1 is the volume [m³] in bedroom 11. 3 The other variables (ventilation rate n, time step t, and half-life T) are the same as in Equation 1 above.

[0137] When simulating the bathroom disinfection pattern P36 using the above formula 2, the number of ventilations n is substituted with the number of ventilations when the airflow of the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is set to "low". Also, the half-life T is substituted with the value of the half-life of ozone in the unit bath section 13.

[0138] In the above formula 2, the amount of ozone in the unit bath section 13 that increases due to the operation of the bathroom ventilation fan 13a (ozone intake) is calculated as "(C1-C2)*nR1t" and added to the amount of ozone already present in the unit bath section 13 (C2*R2). Then, by dividing this sum by the volume R2 of the unit bath section 13, the ozone concentration in the unit bath section 13 when the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is operated at a "low" airflow setting and ozone is released is determined. The result of this ozone concentration calculation does not reflect the effect of natural ozone depletion.

[0139] Therefore, in the above formula 2, "(1 / 2) t / T By multiplying the above ozone concentration calculation result by this, the ozone concentration of the unit bathroom section 13, taking into account the effect of natural decrease, is determined.

[0140] Figure 11(b) shows the results of simulating the bathroom disinfection pattern P36 using the above formula 2 to determine the inactivation time and waiting time. In Figure 11(b), the ozone generator 21 and the bathroom ventilation fan 13a (airflow "low") are started at 11:40, and at 13:20, the ozone concentration in the unit bath section 13 has risen to approximately 0.7 ppm (a higher concentration than the second target concentration (0.5 ppm)) (see "Inactivation Time"). Also in Figure 11(b), the operation of the ozone generator 21 is stopped at this time, and at 14:30, the ozone concentration has decreased to below the completion ozone concentration (0.05 ppm) (see "Waiting Time"). In Figure 11(b), the area (CT value) of the dashed line graph in the range from 11:40 to 14:30 exceeds the target value.

[0141] The control unit 222 executes the bathroom disinfection pattern P36, thereby bringing the CT value in the unit bath section 13 to the target value and enabling proper disinfection of the unit bath section 13. Furthermore, a single ozone generator 21 can efficiently disinfect unit bath sections 13 where the ozone generator 21 is not installed.

[0142] As described above, the space in the third embodiment is a guest room 10 of Hotel 1 (accommodation facility), the bathroom ventilation fan 13a (ventilation fan) is installed in the unit bathroom section 13 within the guest room 10, the ozone generator 21 is installed to release the disinfecting component into a space (bedroom 11) different from the unit bathroom section 13 within the guest room 10, and the third operating pattern includes a sixth operating pattern (bathroom disinfection pattern P36) in which the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is operated at the first airflow rate over the first period (inactivation time) and the second period (standby time).

[0143] By configuring it in this way, ozone can be drawn into the unit bathroom 13 from another space (bedroom 11), allowing the disinfectant components to spread quickly throughout the entire guest room 10.

[0144] Although a third embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention as described in the claims.

[0145] For example, in bathroom disinfection pattern P36, the ozone generator 21 and the bathroom exhaust fan 13a were operated at the same time during the inactivation period, but the operating timings of the ozone generator 21 and the bathroom exhaust fan 13a may be different. For example, the airflow of the bathroom exhaust fan 13a may be changed to operate later than that of the ozone generator 21. This makes it possible to efficiently draw ozone from the bedroom 11, where the ozone concentration is high, to the unit bathroom 13.

[0146] Furthermore, in bathroom disinfection pattern P36, the bathroom exhaust fan 13a was operated at a "low" airflow setting, but the airflow of the bathroom exhaust fan 13a can be changed as appropriate. For example, after the CT value reaches the target value, the airflow of the bathroom exhaust fan 13a may be changed from "low" to "high". This can shorten the waiting time.

[0147] Furthermore, the control to operate the bathroom exhaust fan 13a during the inactivation period is not limited to the bathroom sterilization pattern P36 shown in Figure 11. For example, the control unit 222 may operate the bathroom exhaust fan 13a during the inactivation period while maintaining the ozone concentration in the unit bath section 13 at the second target concentration (0.5 ppm). This allows for sterilization of the unit bath section 13 at an ozone concentration that has little impact on the human body.

[0148] Furthermore, the control unit 222 may set multiple operating patterns for operating the bathroom ventilation fan 13a during the inactivation period and set a priority order for these operating patterns.

[0149] Next, with reference to Figures 12 to 14, the sterilization system 320 according to the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0150] In the sterilization systems 20, 120, and 220 according to the first to third embodiments, after the CT value reaches the target value with the generated ozone, the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is operated at a high airflow setting to rapidly reduce the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 to below the completion ozone concentration. However, there are limits to how quickly the ozone concentration can be reduced by operating the bathroom exhaust fan 13a (i.e., ventilation) alone. Furthermore, if a relatively high concentration of ozone is discharged to the outside through ventilation, the odor of ozone may cause discomfort to people outside.

[0151] Therefore, the sterilization system 320 according to the fourth embodiment has a configuration that solves these problems and improves convenience after sterilization using ozone.

[0152] As shown in Figure 12(a), the sterilization system 320 includes, in addition to the bathroom ventilation fan 13a and ozone generator 21 (see Figure 1, etc.) described above, an air conditioning unit 31, an irradiation unit 32, a locking unit 33, and a control unit 322.

[0153] The air conditioning unit 31 is a device that provides air conditioning for the guest room 10. The air intake port 31a of the air conditioning unit 31 is located on the downward-facing surface of the lowered ceiling 14, which is provided near the door. The exhaust port 31b of the air conditioning unit 31 is located on the side-facing surface of the lowered ceiling 14. The main body of the air conditioning unit 31 is housed within the lowered ceiling 14.

[0154] In this way, the air conditioning unit 31 can draw in air from the guest room 10 through the intake port 31a, adjust the temperature and humidity using the main unit located in the lowered ceiling 14, and then discharge (return) the air back into the guest room 10 through the exhaust port 31b. In this manner, the air conditioning unit 31 can repeatedly circulate the air from the guest room 10 without releasing it to the outside. In this embodiment, the air conditioning unit 31 can also operate primarily for the purpose of circulating the air from the guest room 10 without adjusting the temperature or humidity (circulation operation).

[0155] The irradiation device 32 is capable of irradiating with ultraviolet light (UV-C irradiation) in the wavelength range (254-280 nm) that promotes the decomposition of ozone. The irradiation device 32 can irradiate (turn on) the passenger cabin 10 with UV-C to remove residual ozone in the passenger cabin 10. The irradiation device 32 is installed in conjunction with the air conditioning unit 31 of the passenger cabin 10. Specifically, the irradiation device 32 is installed at one end of the exhaust port 31b of the air conditioning unit 31 in the lateral direction and is configured to irradiate toward the other end. In this way, the irradiation device 32 can irradiate the air discharged into the passenger cabin 10 from the exhaust port 31b with UV-C in a cross-sectional manner. In other words, the irradiation device 32 is installed on the line through which the air passes at the exhaust port 31b.

[0156] As a result, the irradiation device 32 can evenly irradiate the air discharged from the exhaust port 31b with UV-C. Furthermore, since the air inside the passenger compartment 10 is repeatedly circulated by the air conditioning system 31, the irradiation device 32 can repeatedly irradiate the air inside the passenger compartment 10 with UV-C. Thus, with the configuration of the irradiation device 32, UV-C irradiation can be effectively performed on ozone remaining in the passenger compartment 10. In addition, the time required for UV-C irradiation (the time required for ozone decomposition) can be adjusted by adjusting the airflow rate of the air conditioning system 31.

[0157] Furthermore, the irradiation device 32 can also be installed, for example, on the line through which air passes at the intake port 31a, rather than at the exhaust port 31b. Alternatively, the irradiation device 32 can be installed at both the exhaust port 31b and the intake port 31a.

[0158] The locking unit 33 is an electronic lock that locks and unlocks the door of the guest room 10. The locking unit 33 is installed on the door of the guest room 10.

[0159] Referring to Figure 13, we will now explain the experimental results regarding the effect of UV-C irradiation from the irradiation device 32 on promoting the reduction of ozone concentration.

[0160] In this experiment, an LED (UV-C LED) manufactured by Nitride Semiconductor was used as the light source for the irradiation device 32 according to this embodiment, and ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 275 nm was irradiated. In a guest room 10 with an ozone concentration of 0.3 ppm, the time (minutes) until the ozone concentration decreased to 0.03 ppm was calculated when the aforementioned ultraviolet light (UV-C irradiation) was irradiated along with ventilation (exhaust to the outside) by the bathroom ventilation fan 13a. In addition, multiple values ​​of the applied current to the LED (UV-C LED) were set, and the extent to which the difference in applied current affected the ozone concentration reduction effect was evaluated by comparing these results.

[0161] The 0.03 ppm ozone concentration is the commonly used threshold for ozone odor. In other words, if the ozone concentration is 0.03 ppm or less, the ozone odor is considered undetectable (or barely detectable).

[0162] As shown in Figure 13, when UV-C irradiation was not performed (only ventilation by the bathroom exhaust fan 13a), it took about 13 minutes for the ozone concentration to decrease to 0.03 ppm. When the applied current was 200 mA, it took about 11 minutes. In other words, it can be seen that UV-C irradiation has the effect of accelerating the reduction of ozone concentration compared to when UV-C irradiation was not performed. Furthermore, when the applied current was set from 200 mA to 600 mA, the time decreased as the applied current increased, for example, when the applied current was 600 mA, it took about 6 minutes. In other words, it was found that when the applied current was 600 mA, the time required was halved compared to when UV-C irradiation was not performed.

[0163] Thus, when UV-C irradiation is performed in the guest room 10 using the irradiation device 32 with an applied current of, for example, 600 mA, the ozone concentration remaining in the guest room 10 can be reduced to 0.03 ppm (a level where the ozone odor is not noticeable) in about half the time compared to when ventilation is performed only by the bathroom exhaust fan 13a.

[0164] The control unit 322 controls each of the devices that make up the sterilization system 320. The control unit 322 is equipped with a processing unit such as a CPU, a storage device such as RAM or ROM, etc. The control unit 322 is also connected to the bathroom ventilation fan 13a, the ozone generator 21, the air conditioning unit 31, the irradiation device 32, and the locking unit 33, and can acquire and control the status of each of these devices. The control unit 322 also stores various programs for executing predetermined processes in the sterilization system 320 in the storage device.

[0165] The aforementioned predetermined treatment includes a treatment to disinfect the guest room 10 (hereinafter referred to as the "first disinfection treatment"), including the operation of the irradiation device 32, from the time the cleaning staff completes the preparation work for replacement until the replacement period has elapsed. This first disinfection treatment according to the fourth embodiment differs significantly from the treatments of the disinfection systems 20, 120, and 220 according to the first to third embodiments in that it uses the irradiation device 32 to reduce the ozone concentration.

[0166] The first sterilization process performed by the control unit 322 will be explained below using the flowchart in Figure 14.

[0167] First, in step S11, the control unit 322 performs room entry detection. Here, "room entry detection" means detecting that a cleaning staff member is entering the guest room 10 after check-out in order to perform preparation work for room replacement. The control unit 322 performs room entry detection based on information from, for example, a terminal owned by the cleaning staff member or a pre-acquired schedule of the cleaning staff member's preparation work for room replacement.

[0168] Next, in step S12, the control unit 322 performs exit detection. Here, "exit detection" means detecting that the cleaning staff has completed their preparation work for changing rooms and has left (exited) the guest room 10. In other words, for example, if the cleaning staff leaves the guest room 10 to get linens from the linen cart in the corridor (and immediately returns to the guest room 10), this does not constitute exit detection. The control unit 322 performs exit detection based on the elapsed time since entry detection or the arrival of a pre-set time (timer control). When exit detection is performed, the control unit 322 activates the lock unit 33 in preparation for the generation of ozone from the ozone generator 21, and locks the door to prevent entry into the guest room 10.

[0169] Next, in step S13, the control unit 322 stops the bathroom ventilation fan 13a installed in the unit bathroom section 13 of the guest room 10. In this way, the exhaust is stopped before the ozone generator 21 generates ozone (see step S14), and the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 can be increased in a short time.

[0170] Next, in step S14, the control unit 322 operates the ozone generator 21. That is, the control unit 322 releases ozone from the ozone generator 21 and starts disinfecting (ozone disinfection) the room 10. Note that the trigger for operating the ozone generator 21 is not limited to after the bathroom ventilation fan 13a is stopped (see step S13), but any trigger can be used, such as a predetermined time having elapsed after exit detection, or when a cleaning staff member or manager performs an entry preparation operation (e.g., pressing the entry button). Then, when ozone disinfection is completed (when the CT value reaches the target value or when a predetermined time has elapsed), the control unit 322 stops the ozone generator 21.

[0171] Next, in step S15, the control unit 322 activates the bathroom exhaust fan 13a installed in the unit bathroom section 13 of the guest room 10. In this way, exhaust by the bathroom exhaust fan 13a begins, and the ozone-containing air inside the guest room 10 is discharged to the outside.

[0172] Next, in step S16, the control unit 322 starts the circulation operation of the air conditioning unit 31. In this way, the air inside the passenger compartment 10 is circulated by the air conditioning unit 31.

[0173] In this embodiment, the air conditioning unit 31 was started in circulating operation (an operation that circulates the air in the guest room 10 without adjusting the temperature or humidity), but other operations (for example, an operation that circulates the air in the guest room 10 while adjusting the temperature and humidity) may also be performed. In addition, other equipment that enables air circulation may be operated instead of (or together with) the air conditioning unit 31. Specifically, as the other equipment, for example, a portable circulator may be started. Furthermore, the other equipment (for example, the circulator) may be operated not by the control unit 322, but for example by a cleaning staff member.

[0174] Next, in step S17, the control unit 322 operates the irradiation device 32 and starts UV-C irradiation. In this way, the irradiation device 32 can irradiate the air discharged from the exhaust port 31b of the air conditioning unit 31 with UV-C. This reduces the ozone concentration in the air discharged from the exhaust port 31b, and thereby promotes the reduction of the ozone concentration in the passenger compartment 10.

[0175] Next, in step S18, the control unit 322 stops the irradiation device 32 and terminates the UV-C irradiation. The trigger for stopping the irradiation device 32 is not particularly limited, and any trigger can be adopted, such as a predetermined time having elapsed since the start of UV-C irradiation, operation of a predetermined operating means by a cleaning staff member or manager, or when the ozone concentration in the guest room 10 falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0176] Next, in step S19, the control unit 322 stops the operation of the bathroom exhaust fan 13a. Thus, exhaust by the bathroom exhaust fan 13a is terminated. The control unit 322 also operates the locking unit 33 to unlock the door in order to allow entry into the guest room 10.

[0177] Next, in step S20, the control unit 322 determines that preparations for entering the guest room 10 are complete. The control unit 322 can notify relevant personnel at Hotel 1 by displaying information regarding the completion of preparations for entering the room on a designated display device at Hotel 1 or on the administrator's terminal, etc.

[0178] With this configuration, during the preparation work for guest room 10 (the work of preparing the environment of guest room 10 so that the next user can use it), ozone can be used to disinfect the guest room 10, and then the reduction of ozone concentration can be accelerated. In other words, the waiting time until the next user can enter the room can be reduced, thereby improving convenience.

[0179] In the configuration described above, the irradiation device 32 is provided on the air conditioning unit 31, but it is not limited to this. That is, the irradiation device 32 can be provided anywhere in the passenger room 10. For example, the irradiation device 32 may be mounted on the ozone generator 21. Such a configuration makes installation work easier.

[0180] Furthermore, the irradiation device 32 can be a standalone type (portable) rather than a stationary type as in this embodiment. With such a configuration, UV-C irradiation can be directed towards areas in the guest room 10 where the ozone odor is particularly difficult to remove (for example, fibrous materials such as bedding where the ozone odor is difficult to remove). Also, one irradiation device 32 can be shared among multiple guest rooms 10.

[0181] Furthermore, unlike the control unit 322, the irradiation device 32 may be operated by a control unit built into the irradiation device 32 itself. That is, the irradiation device 32 may have a timer (control unit) set in accordance with the operation of the ozone generator 21, automatically turn on after the operation of the ozone generator 21 is completed, and automatically turn off after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0182] Figure 15 shows a first alternative example of the sterilization system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0183] In Figure 15, the sterilization system 320 includes an irradiation device 32a instead of the irradiation device 32, and a circulator 34.

[0184] As shown in Figure 15, the irradiation device 32a is installed on the upper part of the corner of the wall that partitions the passenger compartment 10. The irradiation device 32a is installed so as to face diagonally downward. In this way, the irradiation device 32a can irradiate the entire passenger compartment 10 with UV-C light.

[0185] The circulator 34 circulates the air in the guest room 10. The circulator 34 is placed on a table 11b, for example, and blows air (wind) in various directions, including towards the adjacent wall and upward. In this way, UV-C irradiation from the irradiation device 32a is performed along the line of air blown by the circulator 34.

[0186] Even with this configuration, after disinfecting the guest room 10 using ozone, it is possible to accelerate the reduction of ozone concentration and improve convenience. Furthermore, even without the circulator 34, the reduction of ozone concentration can be accelerated using only the irradiation device 32a.

[0187] In the disinfection system 320 according to the fourth embodiment, the configuration in which the irradiation device 32 is installed in a guest room 10 of the hotel 1 has been described. However, the location where the irradiation device 32 is installed is not limited to a guest room 10 of the hotel 1. That is, the disinfection system 320 according to the fourth embodiment may be applied to a space used by different users other than the hotel 1 (for example, a work booth installed in an office, etc.).

[0188] The following describes a second alternative example of a disinfection system 320, which is an application of the fourth embodiment to a work booth, with reference to Figures 16 and 17.

[0189] The disinfection system 320 according to the second alternative example of the fourth embodiment is applied to a work booth 410. Figure 16(a) shows an office 400 in which the work booth 410 is installed. In this office 400, on one side in a plan view, there are workspaces for multiple workers to perform their duties individually. Adjacent to the workspaces, there is a meeting space for multiple workers to hold meetings with each other. On the other side in a plan view, adjacent to the meeting space, there are multiple (four in this embodiment) work booths 410 for each worker to conduct remote meetings, etc.

[0190] The work booth 410 shown in Figure 16(b) is a personal booth used by one worker as a private room. The work booth 410 is shared by multiple workers in office 400 and used in shifts as needed. The work booth 410 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape with the top closed off by a ceiling 411 and surrounded on all four sides by walls 412. In Figure 17, a door (not shown) facing the meeting space is provided on the front side of the page.

[0191] As shown in Figure 16(b), a workspace is formed inside the work booth 410 where the worker performs their duties. The work booth 410 is also equipped with a chair 413 for the worker to sit on and a work desk 414 for the worker to perform their duties while seated in the chair 413. A telephone and a personal computer are placed on the work desk 414. The work booth 410 is equipped with an ozone generator 21, an exhaust unit 420, an irradiation device 32b, a locking unit 33, and a control unit 322. In the following description, the ozone generator 21 and other components described above, which are substantially the same as those in other embodiments, will not be described.

[0192] The ozone generator 21 is installed on the ceiling 411 of the work booth 410. However, the location of the ozone generator 21 is not limited to the ceiling. For example, the ozone generator 21 may be installed on the wall 412, and the ozone generated by the ozone generator 21 may be diffused (circulated) by air from a separately installed circulator. Thus, the location of the ozone generator 21 is not particularly limited, but it is desirable that it be in a place where the generated ozone can be easily applied to areas that are touched by the hands of users (workers) or where droplets are scattered. In the work booth 410, areas where ozone disinfection is necessary include the work desk 414, the seat of the chair 413, the door knob, and the wall on the front side of the chair 413.

[0193] The exhaust unit 420 is located at the lower part (close to the floor) of the front wall 412 of the chair 413. The exhaust unit 420 is formed in the wall 412 and has an opening that connects the inside and outside of the work booth 410, as well as louvers, a ventilation fan, etc. (not shown). Since it is difficult to connect the exhaust unit 420 of the work booth 410 to the ventilation system of the building in which the office 400 is located, ventilation is performed by exhausting the air inside the work booth 410 to the outside (meeting space, etc.). In this way, by providing the exhaust unit 420 at the lower part of the wall 412, it is possible to easily exhaust ozone, which is heavier than air, to the outside of the work booth 410.

[0194] The locking unit 33 is an electronic lock that locks and unlocks the door of the work booth 410. The locking unit 33 is installed on the door of the work booth 410.

[0195] The irradiation device 32b is installed in the exhaust section 420. This allows the irradiation device 32b to evenly irradiate the air being discharged from the exhaust section 420 to the outside of the work booth 410 with UV-C. The irradiation device 32b is installed in the exhaust section 420 on the line through which the air passes.

[0196] The control unit 322 is connected to the ozone generator 21, exhaust unit 420, locking unit 33, and irradiation device 32b, and can acquire and control the status of each of these devices. The control unit 322 also stores various programs for executing predetermined processes in the sterilization system 320 in the storage device. The predetermined processes include a sterilization process for sterilizing the work booth 410 (hereinafter referred to as the "second sterilization process").

[0197] As described above, when ventilation is performed in the work booth 410, the air inside the work booth 410 is discharged into the meeting space, etc. In such a case, there is a problem that other workers in the meeting space, etc. may feel uncomfortable due to the odor of ozone. Therefore, the second disinfection treatment according to this embodiment includes a treatment that disinfects the work booth 410 and solves the above-mentioned problem.

[0198] The second sterilization process performed by the control unit 322 will be explained below using the flowchart in Figure 17.

[0199] First, in step S21, the control unit 322 performs entry detection. Here, "entry detection" means detecting that a worker is using the work booth 410. The control unit 322 performs entry detection based on, for example, the lock status of the door or the previously acquired usage schedule of the work booth 410.

[0200] Next, in step S22, the control unit 322 performs exit detection. Here, "exit detection" means detecting that the worker leaves (exits) the work booth 410. The control unit 322 performs exit detection based on the elapsed time since entry detection or the arrival of a preset time (timer control). When exit detection is performed, the control unit 322 activates the lock unit 33 in preparation for the generation of ozone from the ozone generator 21, and locks the door to prevent entry into the work booth 410.

[0201] Next, in step S23, the control unit 322 operates the ozone generator 21. That is, the control unit 322 releases ozone from the ozone generator 21 and starts disinfection (ozone disinfection) inside the work booth 410. Note that the trigger for operating the ozone generator 21 is not limited to after exit detection (see step S22), but any trigger can be used, such as a predetermined time having elapsed since exit detection, or another worker preparing to enter the room (e.g., pressing the enter button). Then, when ozone disinfection is completed (when the CT value reaches the target value or when a predetermined time has elapsed), the control unit 322 stops the ozone generator 21.

[0202] Next, in step S24, the control unit 322 operates the irradiation device 32b and starts UV-C irradiation. In this way, the irradiation device 32b can irradiate the air discharged from the exhaust unit 420 with UV-C.

[0203] Next, in step S25, the control unit 322 activates the exhaust unit 420 (more specifically, the ventilation fan of the exhaust unit 420). Thus, exhaust by the exhaust unit 420 begins, and the ozone-containing air inside the work booth 410 is discharged to the outside. As mentioned above, the irradiation device 32b in the exhaust unit 420 performs UV-C irradiation. This reduces the ozone concentration in the air discharged from the exhaust unit 420, and consequently promotes the reduction of ozone odor in the air discharged to the outside of the work booth 410.

[0204] Next, in step S26, the control unit 322 stops the irradiation device 32b and terminates the UV-C irradiation. The trigger for stopping the irradiation device 32b is not particularly limited, and any trigger can be adopted, such as a predetermined time having elapsed since the start of UV-C irradiation, operation of a predetermined operating means by a worker or the like, or when the ozone concentration in the work booth 410 falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0205] Next, in step S27, the control unit 322 stops the operation of the exhaust unit 420 (more specifically, the ventilation fan of the exhaust unit 420). In this way, ventilation inside the work booth 410 is terminated. The control unit 322 also operates the lock unit 33 to unlock the door in order to allow the worker to enter.

[0206] Next, in step S28, the control unit 322 can notify those involved in office 400 of the completion of preparations for entering the office by displaying information on a designated display device in office 400 or on the worker's terminal, etc.

[0207] With this configuration, after disinfecting the work booth 410 using ozone, the ventilation fan in the exhaust unit 420 can be activated to promote the reduction of ozone concentration. In other words, the waiting time before the next user can enter can be reduced, thereby improving convenience. In addition, the irradiation device 32b can reduce the ozone concentration of the discharged air, and consequently promote the reduction of ozone odor in the air discharged to the outside of the work booth 410. In other words, the unpleasantness caused by the ozone odor to people outside can be suppressed, thereby improving convenience.

[0208] The disinfection system 320 according to the second alternative example of the fourth embodiment is applied to a work booth 410, but is not limited thereto. For example, the booth may not be a private room but may be used by a large number of people. Also, the space in which the irradiation device 32b is installed can be any space (for example, a guest room 10), not just a booth.

[0209] As described above, in the disinfection system 320 according to the fourth embodiment, A disinfection system that uses ozone to disinfect a designated space (10 guest rooms and 410 work booths), An ozone release unit (ozone generator 21) that releases ozone into the aforementioned space, The system includes an irradiation unit (irradiation device 32, irradiation device 32a, irradiation device 32b) capable of irradiating the ozone emitted by the ozone emission unit (ozone generator 21) with ultraviolet light that can promote the decomposition of ozone. Furthermore, the ultraviolet light emitted from the irradiation device has a wavelength range of 254 to 280 nm.

[0210] This configuration makes it possible to improve convenience after sterilization using ozone.

[0211] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a circulation unit (air conditioning device 31 and circulator 34) capable of circulating the air within the space is further provided. The irradiation unit is The system includes a first irradiation unit (irradiation device 32, irradiation device 32a) capable of irradiating ultraviolet light into the air circulated by the aforementioned circulation unit.

[0212] This configuration can help promote the reduction of ozone concentration.

[0213] Furthermore, in this embodiment, The aforementioned circulation unit (air conditioning unit 31) is The air drawn in from the intake port 31a can be discharged back into the space from the exhaust port 31b. The first irradiation unit is, The system includes a second irradiation unit (irradiation device 32) provided in at least one of the exhaust port 31b and the intake port 31a, which is capable of irradiating ultraviolet light onto the line through which air passes.

[0214] This configuration can help promote the reduction of ozone concentration.

[0215] Furthermore, in this embodiment, The irradiation unit is It includes a third irradiation unit (irradiation device 32a) installed on the upper part of the corner of the wall that partitions the space.

[0216] This configuration can help promote the reduction of ozone concentration.

[0217] Furthermore, in this embodiment, The aforementioned space is the interior space of the booth (work booth 410), The booth (work booth 410) is further provided with an exhaust section 420 located at the bottom of the booth (work booth 410) that communicates the inside and outside of the booth (work booth 410). The irradiation unit is The exhaust section 420 includes a fourth irradiation section (irradiation device 32b) capable of irradiating ultraviolet light onto the line through which air passes.

[0218] This configuration makes it possible to reduce the odor of ozone discharged to the outside of the work booth 410.

[0219] Furthermore, in this embodiment, The system further comprises a control unit 322 capable of controlling the irradiation unit, The control unit 322, The irradiation of the irradiation unit is started after the ozone release unit (ozone generator 21) has completed releasing ozone.

[0220] This configuration allows for the automatic promotion of ozone concentration reduction.

[0221] Furthermore, in this embodiment, The system further includes a locking mechanism 33 for locking and unlocking a door that allows access to the aforementioned space. The control unit, Before the ozone emission unit (ozone generator 21) starts emitting ozone, the door is locked by the locking unit 33 (steps S12 and S22), and after the irradiation by the irradiation unit is completed, the lock on the door is released (steps S19 and S27).

[0222] This configuration helps to prevent the door from being opened at the wrong time.

[0223] Furthermore, the configuration of the sterilization system 320 according to the fourth embodiment can also be applied to the sterilization systems 20, 120, and 220 according to the first to third embodiments. For example, the operation of the irradiation devices 32, 32a, and 32b can be included in the operation pattern P10 of the sterilization system 20 according to the first embodiment. In this way, the "waiting time" (the time from stopping the ozone generator 21 to reducing the ozone concentration to below the completed ozone concentration) can be reduced.

[0224] Furthermore, in the sterilization system 320 according to the fourth embodiment, the irradiation unit (irradiation device 32, irradiation device 32a, irradiation device 32b) is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light in the wavelength range (254-280 nm), but is not limited to this. In other words, the irradiation unit is not limited to the wavelength of ultraviolet light irradiated, as long as it promotes the decomposition of ozone. [Explanation of symbols]

[0225] 10 guest rooms 21 Ozone generator 32 Irradiation device 32a Irradiation device 32b Irradiation device 410 Work Booths

Claims

1. A disinfection system that uses ozone to disinfect a designated space, An ozone release unit that releases ozone into the aforementioned space, An irradiation unit capable of irradiating the ozone released by the ozone emission unit with ultraviolet light capable of promoting the decomposition of ozone, A circulation unit capable of circulating the air within the aforementioned space, It is equipped with, The irradiation unit is It includes a first irradiation unit capable of irradiating ultraviolet light into the air circulated by the aforementioned circulation unit, The aforementioned circulation unit is The air drawn in from the intake port can be discharged back into the space from the exhaust port. The first irradiation unit is, It is provided in at least one of the exhaust port and the intake port, and is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light across the port, and to irradiate ultraviolet light along the line through which the air passes, The aforementioned space is the interior space of the building, The aforementioned circulation unit is This is an air conditioning system that provides air conditioning for the aforementioned space. A location different from the ozone emission unit arranged within the aforementioned space is provided, Disinfection system.

2. The first irradiation unit is, Provided at both the exhaust port and the intake port, The disinfection system according to claim 1.

3. The irradiation unit is Including a second irradiation unit installed on the upper part of the corner portion of the wall that partitions the space, A sterilization system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The space is the interior space of the booth, The booth is further provided with an exhaust section located at the bottom of the booth, which communicates the inside and outside of the booth. The irradiation unit is The exhaust section includes a third irradiation unit capable of irradiating ultraviolet light onto a line through which air passes, The disinfection system according to claim 1.

5. The invention further comprises a control unit capable of controlling the irradiation unit, The control unit, After the ozone emission unit has finished releasing ozone, the irradiation unit starts irradiation. A disinfection system according to claim 1 or claim 4.

6. The device further comprises a locking mechanism for locking and unlocking a door that allows entry and exit to the space, The control unit, Before the ozone emission unit begins to release ozone, the door is locked by the locking unit, and after the irradiation unit has finished irradiating, the door is unlocked. The disinfection system according to claim 5.

7. The ultraviolet light emitted from the irradiation unit has a wavelength range of 254 to 280 nm. A sterilization system according to claim 1, or any one of claims 4 to 6.