Air purification device

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for cleaning air capable of maintaining performance by improving maintainability.SOLUTION: An apparatus for cleaning air includes: a counter electrode 10 applied with a positive potential; a discharge electrode 20 disposed with a tip end thereof toward the counter electrode 10, applied with a negative potential, and for generating ionic wind by corona discharge; and a flow channel-forming cylindrical body 70 for forming a flow channel of the ionic wind between the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 20, where a desiccant 65 is disposed on the upstream side of the discharge electrode 20. Thereby, intrusion of foreign matters such as conductive substances caused by moisture in air and ions into between the discharge electrode 20 and the counter electrode 10 can be prevented so that fluctuation of a current amount and a voltage amount between the discharge electrode 20 and the counter electrode 10 caused by the existence of the foreign matters can be prevented. Therefore, generation of undesirable phenomena such as fluctuation of a wind velocity and a wind quantity caused by the fluctuation of a current amount and a voltage amount, fluctuation of discharge sound, and fluctuation of an ozone concentration can be prevented.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air purifying apparatus that purifies air by using corona discharge and ion wind.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, deodorizing apparatuses using corona discharge have been proposed. As an example of such an apparatus, the applicant has grasped the following prior art document 1.

[0003] The above Patent Document 1 has the following description. 〔0002〕 〔Prior Art〕FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a basic configuration of a conventional deodorizing unit that combines a corona discharge element and an activated carbon filter. In the figure, 1 is an air passage, 2 is a strip-shaped discharge electrode arranged perpendicular to the air passage 1, and a plurality of needle-shaped protrusions are formed at regular intervals at the downstream end of the wind. 3 is a mesh-shaped counter electrode arranged perpendicular to the air passage 1 behind the discharge electrode 2. The corona discharge element is constituted by a pair of the discharge electrode 2 and the counter electrode 3. Further, an activated carbon filter 4 and a blower fan 5 are arranged in order along the air passage 1 behind the counter electrode 3. 〔0009〕 〔Embodiment of the Invention〕Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a basic configuration of a deodorizing unit in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The same or corresponding parts as in the conventional example are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted. In the figure, 6 is a moisture absorbent filter composed of a moisture absorbent 7 such as silica gel, zeolite, molecular sieve, etc. that reversibly adsorbs and desorbs moisture depending on the level of water vapor pressure in the air, and is arranged between the corona discharge element and the activated carbon filter 4. 〔0011〕 Thereafter, when it shifts to a low-humidity environment, the moisture stored in the moisture absorbent 7 is discharged into the air due to the decrease in the water vapor pressure in the air. The discharged moisture is changed into hydroxyl radicals by corona discharge, sent to the activated carbon filter 4, and used to oxidize and decompose the captured odor molecules.

[0012] In this way, by allowing the desiccant 7 to store as much moisture as possible, changes in the humidity environment in the air can be mitigated, reducing fluctuations in the amount of hydroxyl radicals generated, and enabling effective decomposition of odor components. In addition, since the activated carbon of the activated carbon filter 4 is reactivated, the re-emission of odor molecules is prevented, and the lifespan of the activated carbon filter 4 itself is extended. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-276192 [Disclosure of the Invention] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] As described in Patent Document 1 above, it is known that applying a high voltage between a discharge electrode 2 and a counter electrode 3 generates an ion wind due to corona discharge. Examples of devices that utilize such an ion wind include air purifiers, ozone generators, and ion generators, and the deodorizing unit described in Patent Document 1 above is one such example.

[0006] In these ion wind devices, the presence of foreign matter between the discharge electrode 2 and the counter electrode 3 can cause fluctuations in the current and voltage between the electrodes. Fluctuations in the current between the electrodes can cause fluctuations in discharge noise and ozone generation. Fluctuations in voltage due to the action of overcurrent protection circuits, etc., can cause fluctuations in the wind speed and volume of the ion wind.

[0007] For example, in the case of an air purifier, if the wind speed or volume of the ion wind decreases or fluctuates, it may affect the air purification performance. Also, in products that do not have a blower fan 5 and offer quiet operation as added value, there is a problem in that undesirable phenomena such as the discharge noise becoming louder or fluctuating occur.

[0008] Ozone produced by corona discharge is effective in decomposing harmful substances at low concentrations, but at high concentrations it acts as a harmful substance to the human body. As mentioned above, fluctuations in the current between electrodes can cause the concentration of ozone to increase or decrease. This can lead to odor problems and affect human health, which is undesirable.

[0009] As mentioned above, these problems occur when foreign matter enters the space between the discharge electrode 2 and the counter electrode 3. Examples of such foreign matter include dust and fine particulate matter. Furthermore, conductive substances and ions caused by moisture in the air can also enter the space between the discharge electrode 2 and the counter electrode 3, causing fluctuations in the current.

[0010] Attempting to remove these foreign substances with filters presents problems such as physical deterioration and bacterial / mold growth, as general filters are susceptible to moisture. Furthermore, fine filters like HEPA filters result in high pressure loss, leading to insufficient intake and exhaust in the absence of a fan.

[0011] The deodorizing unit described in Patent Document 1 above has an activated carbon filter 4 and a desiccant filter 6 arranged downstream of a corona discharge element consisting of a discharge electrode 2 and a counter electrode 3.

[0012] However, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 cannot prevent foreign matter from entering between the discharge electrode 2 and the counter electrode 3. Therefore, the problem of fluctuations in ion wind velocity, airflow, discharge noise, and ozone generation caused by fluctuations in the current between the electrodes cannot be solved.

[0013] This invention was made to solve the above problems and provides an air purification device with the following objectives. The design aims to prevent foreign matter from entering the space between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode, and to allow for easy removal of any foreign matter that does enter the space between the two electrodes, thereby improving maintainability and maintaining the ability to decompose malodorous substances and viruses, as well as safety and quiet operation.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0014] In order to achieve the above object, the air purifying apparatus according to claim 1 adopts the following configuration. A counter electrode to which a positive potential is applied, A discharge electrode having a tip disposed toward the counter electrode and to which a negative potential is applied to generate an ionic wind by corona discharge, A flow path forming cylindrical body that forms a flow path of the ionic wind between the counter electrode and the discharge electrode, A moisture absorbent is disposed upstream of the discharge electrode.

[0015] The air purifying apparatus according to claim 2 adopts the following configuration in addition to the configuration according to claim 1. The air purifying apparatus further includes a discharge electrode holding member that holds a plurality of the discharge electrodes at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis of the flow path forming cylindrical body, The moisture absorbent is disposed upstream of the discharge electrode holding member, A cleaning slit for cleaning the inner peripheral surface of the flow path forming cylindrical body is formed along the inner peripheral surface of the flow path forming cylindrical body in the discharge electrode holding member.

[0016] The air purifying apparatus according to claim 3 adopts the following configuration in addition to the configuration according to claim 2. The cleaning slit is formed between the virtual ring formed by the discharge electrode and the flow path forming cylindrical body.

[0017] The air purifying apparatus according to claim 4 adopts the following configuration in addition to the configuration according to claim 2 or 3. The outer surface of the cleaning slit is configured to be flush with the inner peripheral surface of the flow path forming cylindrical body.

[0018] The air purifying apparatus according to claim 5 adopts the following configuration in addition to the configuration according to claim 2 or 3. The cleaning slit is set to a width dimension through which the shaft of the cleaning swab can pass, and a head passage space through which the head of the cleaning swab can pass is formed at at least one end of the cleaning slit.

[0019] The air purification device according to claim 6 employs the following configuration in addition to the configuration according to any one of claims 1 to 3. A pre-filter is disposed upstream of the moisture absorbent.

[0020] The air purification device according to claim 7 employs the following configuration in addition to the configuration according to claim 4. A protective sheet for covering the inner peripheral surface of the flow path forming cylindrical body and preventing contamination of the flow path forming cylindrical body itself can be inserted into the cleaning slit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0021] The air purification device according to claim 1 includes a counter electrode, a discharge electrode, and a flow path forming cylindrical body. The counter electrode is applied with a positive potential. The discharge electrode is disposed with its tip facing the counter electrode and is applied with a negative potential to generate ionic wind by corona discharge. The flow path forming cylindrical body forms a flow path for the ionic wind between the counter electrode and the discharge electrode. A moisture absorbent is disposed upstream of the discharge electrode. The moisture absorbent can remove moisture in the air introduced into the flow path. Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign substances such as conductive substances and ions caused by moisture in the air from entering between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode, and to prevent fluctuations in the amount of current and voltage between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode due to the presence of the foreign substances. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent undesirable phenomena such as fluctuations in the wind speed and air volume of the ionic wind, fluctuations in the discharge sound, and fluctuations in the ozone concentration caused by fluctuations in the amount of current and voltage. In addition, the moisture absorbent also exhibits an effect of removing malodors and the like. Further, the moisture absorbent also exhibits a humidity adjusting function of moderating changes in the humidity environment in the air so that the generation amount of hydroxyl radicals and the like, which are effective for decomposing harmful substances, does not become too low in a dry environment with a relatively low humidity and a low water vapor pressure in the air.

[0022] The air purification device according to claim 2 further comprises a discharge electrode holding member. The discharge electrode holding member holds a plurality of discharge electrodes arranged at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis of the flow channel forming cylinder. By arranging the discharge electrodes at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis of the flow channel forming cylinder, an ion wind flows effectively through the flow channel within the flow channel forming cylinder with a highly uniform airflow rate. Furthermore, since the desiccant is placed upstream of the discharge electrode holding member, it is possible to prevent foreign matter caused by moisture in the air from entering the downstream side of the discharge electrodes. Therefore, it is possible to prevent undesirable phenomena such as fluctuations in the current and voltage between the discharge electrodes and the counter electrodes due to the foreign matter, fluctuations in the wind speed and volume of the ion wind, fluctuations in discharge noise, and fluctuations in ozone concentration. In addition, the discharge electrode holding member has a cleaning slit formed along the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder for cleaning the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder. Therefore, the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder can be easily cleaned with a cotton swab or the like using the cleaning slit. Therefore, even if foreign matter caused by moisture that could not be captured by the above-mentioned desiccant adheres to the inner surface of the channel-forming cylinder, it can be easily restored through maintenance. Even if fluctuations in current or voltage occur due to foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the channel-forming cylinder, maintenance can be easily performed. In particular, by arranging multiple discharge electrodes at equal intervals on the virtual ring, there is nothing to obstruct the removal of foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the channel-forming cylinder, making cleaning easy.

[0023] The air purification device according to claim 3 has the cleaning slit formed between the virtual ring formed by the discharge electrode and the flow channel forming cylinder. By arranging multiple discharge electrodes at equal intervals on the virtual ring, there is nothing to obstruct the removal of foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder, and cleaning can be easily performed.

[0024] The air purification device according to claim 4 is configured such that the outer surface of the cleaning slit is flush with the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder. Because the outer surface of the cleaning slit is flush with the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder, foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder can be easily removed using the cleaning slit.

[0025] The air purification device according to claim 5 is configured such that the cleaning slit is set to a width dimension that allows the shaft of a cleaning cotton swab to pass through, and a head passage space is formed at at least one end of the cleaning slit through which the head of the cleaning cotton swab can pass. In this way, for example, by using a commercially available cleaning cotton swab, passing its head through the head passage space and its shaft through the cleaning slit, foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder can be easily removed using the cleaning slit. Note that cleaning can also be performed using cleaning tools other than cotton swabs.

[0026] The air purification device according to claim 6 has a pre-filter positioned upstream of the desiccant. This allows air from which dust and other particles have been removed by the pre-filter to come into contact with the desiccant, thereby preventing contamination of the desiccant and extending its desiccant absorption effect.

[0027] The air purification device according to claim 7 allows for the insertion of a protective sheet into the cleaning slit to cover the inner circumferential surface of the flow path forming cylinder and prevent contamination of the flow path forming cylinder itself. This suppresses contamination of the flow path forming cylinder itself. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0028] [Figure 1] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating an air purification device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the electrode unit, with (A) being a top view, (B) a longitudinal cross-sectional view, and (C) a magnified view of the main part of the cleaning slit. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view illustrating the positional relationship between the discharge electrode, the counter electrode, and the flow channel forming cylinder. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating an example of a mounting structure. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating the first example of a protective sheet. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating a second example of a protective sheet. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating the second example described above. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the third example of a protective sheet. [Figure 9] This is a diagram illustrating the third example described above. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating the third example described above. [Figure 11] This is a diagram illustrating the fourth example of a protective sheet. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] Next, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described.

[0030] Figures 1 to 10 show embodiments of an air purification device to which the present invention is applied. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view, and Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the electrode unit 1. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the discharge electrode 20, the counter electrode 10, and the flow path forming cylinder 70. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stand. Figures 5 to 10 illustrate protective sheets.

[0031] [Overall structure] This air purification device comprises a counter electrode 10, a discharge electrode 20, and a flow path forming cylinder 70. A positive DC potential is applied to the counter electrode 10 from a power supply unit 40. The tip of the discharge electrode 20 is positioned toward the counter electrode 10. A negative DC potential is applied to the discharge electrode 20 from the power supply unit 40, generating an ion wind by corona discharge. The flow path forming cylinder 70 is a cylinder that forms a flow path for the ion wind between the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 20. The counter electrode 10, the discharge electrode 20, and the flow path forming cylinder 70 constitute a part of the electrode unit 1.

[0032] [Casing 30] The electrode unit 1 described above, along with the power supply unit 40 and other components, is housed within a casing 30. Inside the casing 30, the discharge electrode 20 is positioned at the top, and the counter electrode 10 is positioned below the discharge electrode 20. Furthermore, a rectifier member 50 for rectifying the ion airflow is positioned downstream of the ion airflow, below the counter electrode 10. In other words, inside the casing 30, the components are arranged in the order of discharge electrode 20, counter electrode 10, and rectifier member 50 from top to bottom. The casing 30 has an air intake port 31 above the discharge electrode 20, and an exhaust port 32 on the outer circumference of the rectifier member 50.

[0033] The casing 30 is cylindrical and houses the electrode unit 1 and the rectifier member 50. The lower opening of the casing 30 is closed by a bottom member 33. The upper opening of the casing 30 is closed by a removable lid member 34. The bottom member 33 is provided with a projection 33A for positioning the power supply unit 40 when it is housed inside. A mounting portion 52 for attaching the rectifier member 50 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the casing 30. In the illustrated example, the power supply unit 40 is located at the bottom of the casing 30, and the rectifier member 50 is located above it.

[0034] The casing 30 described above is provided with an air intake port 31 and an exhaust port 32.

[0035] The air intake port 31 is provided on the outer periphery of the casing 30 above the discharge electrode 20. In this example, the air intake port 31 is formed on the outer periphery of the casing 30 by providing a large number of vertically extending slits at regular intervals in the circumferential direction. Therefore, air can be drawn into the casing 30 from all 360° directions around it.

[0036] Furthermore, the exhaust port 32 is provided on the outer periphery of the casing 30, on the outer periphery of the rectifying member 50. In this example, the exhaust port 32 is provided on the outer periphery of the casing 30, slightly above the conical slope of the rectifying member 50. The intake port 31 is formed by providing a large number of intake ports 31 at regular intervals in the circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the casing 30. Therefore, the exhaust port 32 smoothly discharges the ion air that has flowed along the conical slope of the rectifying member 50 in a 360° direction around the casing 30.

[0037] [Pre-filter 60] A cylindrical pre-filter 60 is positioned inside the air intake port 31. Above the discharge electrodes 20, there is a space where the airflow drawn in from the air intake port 31 and passing through the pre-filter 60 flows towards the airflow passage 27 inside each discharge electrode 20. In other words, the pre-filter 60 is positioned upstream of the desiccant 65, which will be described later.

[0038] For the pre-filter 60, for example, PTFE resin with perforations can be suitably used. Since PTFE resin has low resistance to friction, it does not cause resistance when inserting or removing it from the cylindrical casing 30, and any dust or dirt that adheres to it can be easily cleaned. The pre-filter 60 is not limited to PTFE resin; various other materials can be used.

[0039] A safety switch 41 is provided near the upper end of the discharge electrode holding member 25. The safety switch 41 is activated by the installation of the pre-filter 60 and the cover member 34, enabling the application of potential to the discharge electrode 20 and the counter electrode 10. In other words, removing the cover member 34 activates the safety switch 41, turning off the application of potential to the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 20, and turning off the input to the machine's electrical circuit. As will be described later, when cleaning the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70 using the cleaning slit 75, the cover member 34 is removed. Therefore, during cleaning, the application of potential to the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 20 is turned off, and the input to the machine's electrical circuit is turned off, thus preventing electric shock during cleaning and ensuring safety.

[0040] In Figure 1, the wires and switches from the power supply unit 40 are schematically shown outside the casing 30, but in the actual unit, all the wires and switches are housed inside the casing 30. The connectors and wiring connections are also all housed inside the casing 30.

[0041] [Discharge electrode 20] The discharge electrode 20 is integrated with a stainless steel annular portion 21 and is formed in the shape of an isosceles triangle extending downward from the lower end of the annular portion 21. In other words, the discharge electrode 20 is a sharp metal electrode with its tip facing downward toward the opposing electrode 10.

[0042] The annular portion 21 is positioned around the axis C of the flow-flow forming cylinder 70. This also means that it is positioned around the axis C passing through the top 51 of the cone-shaped flow-rectifying member 50, which will be described later. Multiple discharge electrodes 20 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the annular portion 21. Figure 3 shows an example with 12 discharge electrodes 20. Therefore, multiple discharge electrodes 20 are arranged at equal intervals on a virtual circle centered on the axis C of the flow-flow forming cylinder 70.

[0043] [Opposite electrode 10] The counter electrode 10 described above is a porous ceramic catalyst support that is formed in a disc shape and has numerous flow channel openings 11 that penetrate vertically.

[0044] The above-mentioned flow channel openings 11 are provided on the disc-shaped surface of the counter electrode 10, with numerous openings of the same size and shape arranged in a regular pattern. For example, the flow channel openings 11 can be formed as round holes, square holes, hexagonal holes, etc. In other words, they can be formed in the shape of a perforated plate, a grid, a honeycomb, etc.

[0045] The ceramics constituting the counter electrode 10 are preferably made by supporting a photocatalyst on a porous catalyst support such as cordierite or alumina. The photocatalyst, upon irradiation with ultraviolet light, generates a strong oxidizing effect through photocatalysis, removing harmful substances such as organic compounds and bacteria. Specifically, titanium dioxide or tungsten oxide can be used.

[0046] [Electrode Unit 1] The electrode unit 1 comprises the counter electrode 10, the discharge electrode 20, and the flow path forming cylinder 70. The electrode unit 1 is arranged concentrically with the casing 30. This ensures that the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 10 are positioned in a predetermined positional relationship within the casing 30.

[0047] The electrode unit 1 described above includes the counter electrode 10, the discharge electrode 20, the flow path forming cylinder 70, as well as a counter electrode holding member 15 and a discharge electrode holding member 25.

[0048] The counter electrode holding member 15 is roughly cylindrical and has a stepped portion 15A for holding the counter electrode 10. The lower end 15B of the counter electrode holding member 15 abuts against the inclined surface of the rectifier member 50. The flow path forming cylinder 70 is inserted from above into the stepped portion 15A of the counter electrode holding member 15 where the counter electrode 10 is held, and its lower end 70A presses against the upper surface of the counter electrode 10.

[0049] The discharge electrode holding member 25 holds the multiple discharge electrodes 20 at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70, and positions the discharge electrodes 20 in predetermined positions within the casing 30. In this example, the discharge electrode holding member 25 is disc-shaped, and a fitting ring 26 is formed on its lower surface into which an annular portion 21 on which the discharge electrodes 20 are provided is fitted. Inside the fitting ring 26 (i.e., inside each discharge electrode 20), an airflow passage 27 is formed, through which airflow can easily pass. The airflow passage 27 has multiple arc-shaped slits formed along a concentric virtual circle centered on the axis C. In this example, eight slits are formed on the outside and eight on the inside.

[0050] [Corona discharge and ion wind] A positive DC potential is applied to the counter electrode 10 from the power supply unit 40. A negative DC potential is applied to the discharge electrode 20 from the power supply unit 40. Corona discharge is generated by the potential difference between the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 20 at this time.

[0051] This corona discharge causes electrons to be emitted from the tip of the discharge electrode 20 toward the counter electrode 10. At this time, the emitted electron stream is accelerated by the high electric field and collides with gas molecules, imparting kinetic energy to the gas molecules and creating an electron-induced wind of air that generates airflow. At this time, some of the electrons are trapped in the outer shell of the bonding orbitals of the gas molecules and become negatively charged negative ion molecules. Therefore, the electron-induced wind becomes an ionic wind airflow containing negative ion molecules.

[0052] By applying a negative potential to the discharge electrode 20 configured as described above, a corona discharge is generated from its tip, allowing a strong ion wind to be produced with minimal power. Furthermore, because a corona discharge is generated with minimal power, the amount of ozone produced is very small.

[0053] In this embodiment, electrons move from the discharge electrode 20, whose tip is facing downward, toward the counter electrode 10 located below it. Therefore, the generated ion wind flows from top to bottom within the flow channel forming cylinder 70.

[0054] Furthermore, it is preferable that the potential applied to the counter electrode 20 and the discharge electrode 10 is such that ultraviolet light is generated at the tip of the discharge electrode 20 by the corona discharge. Also, it is preferable that the potential applied to the counter electrode 20 and the discharge electrode 10 is such that a low concentration of ozone is generated near the tip of the discharge electrode 20 by the corona discharge.

[0055] In this embodiment, for example, a potential of +10kV can be applied to the counter electrode 20 and a potential of -10kV can be applied to the discharge electrode 20. At this time, the potential difference between the discharge electrode 20 and the counter electrode 10 is 20kV.

[0056] It should be noted that the values ​​are not limited to those mentioned above. For example, wind speed changes depending on the electrode material and shape, applied voltage, and distance between electrodes. For example, even if the potential difference is less than 20kV, it is possible to increase the wind speed by reducing the distance between electrodes, but if the electrodes are too close together, the possibility of a short circuit between the electrodes increases when foreign matter is introduced or when subjected to physical impact increases. To maintain stability and safety while maximizing functionality, it is necessary to optimize the balance between the electrode material and shape, applied voltage, and distance between electrodes.

[0057] [Rectifier member 50] The rectifying member 50 is a cone-shaped object with its top portion 51 facing upwards. The top portion 51 coincides with the axis C that passes through the center of the annular portion 21 (a virtual circle in which the discharge electrodes 20 are arranged at equal intervals) and the flow path forming cylinder 70.

[0058] The rectifier member 50 is made of translucent resin and also functions as a diffuser that diffuses the light emitted by the LED 42. The light from the LED 42 diffused by the rectifier member 50 can be seen from the outside through the exhaust port 32 or through the casing 30. The rectifier member 50 can also be provided with the function of connecting the upper and lower parts.

[0059] [Moisture absorbent 65] In this embodiment, the desiccant 65 is placed upstream of the discharge electrode 20. In this example, the desiccant 65 is placed upstream of the discharge electrode holding member 25. In this embodiment, the desiccant 65 is placed on a frame 28 that is on top of the discharge electrode holding member 25, thereby creating a gap between the discharge electrode holding member 25 and the desiccant 65.

[0060] The above-mentioned desiccant 65 is preferably one that can be reused. For example, activated carbon, zeolite, diatomaceous earth, other porous materials, and those enclosed in bags made of nonwoven fabric can be used. Such desiccant 65 can be regenerated by sun drying and reused. In addition, the above-mentioned porous materials also have the effect of adsorbing odor substances and harmful substances. The adsorption effect of odor substances and harmful substances can also be regenerated by sun drying.

[0061] This embodiment is an air purification device in which a reusable desiccant 65 is placed upstream of an electrode unit 1 that generates ionized wind.

[0062] [Cleaning slit 75] The discharge electrode holding member 25, which constitutes the electrode unit 1, has cleaning slits 75 formed along the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 for cleaning the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70. In this example, two cleaning slits 75, each having a roughly semicircular arc shape, are formed. This allows the entire inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 to be cleaned.

[0063] In this example, the cleaning slit 75 is set to a width dimension that allows the shaft of the cleaning cotton swab to pass through, and a head passage space 75A is formed at at least one end of the cleaning slit 75 through which the head of the cleaning cotton swab can pass.

[0064] Furthermore, the cleaning slit 75 is formed between the virtual ring formed by the discharge electrode 20 and the flow channel forming cylinder 70. In particular, in this embodiment, the outer surface of the cleaning slit 75 is configured to be flush with the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70. In this way, as described above, the entire inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 can be easily cleaned by passing a cleaning cotton swab through the cleaning slit 75.

[0065] In this embodiment, the discharge electrode holding member 25 has an airflow passage 27 formed therein, as described above. The airflow passage 27 is located inside each discharge electrode 20, that is, inside the cleaning slit 75. In this example, multiple arc-shaped slits (eight on the inside and eight on the outside in this example) are formed along a concentric virtual circle centered on the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70.

[0066] The airflow passage 27 is formed inclined so that the airflow passing through the airflow passage 27 is directed toward the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70. As a result, the airflow inside the flow path forming cylinder 70 flows toward the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70, reducing the adhesion of foreign matter contained in the airflow to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70. Therefore, the cleaning cycle using a cotton swab with the cleaning slit 75 can be extended.

[0067] The discharge electrode holding member 25 holds the multiple discharge electrodes 20 at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70, and positions the discharge electrodes 20 in predetermined positions within the casing 30. In this example, the discharge electrode holding member 25 is disc-shaped, and a fitting ring 26 is formed on its lower surface into which an annular portion 21 on which the discharge electrodes 20 are provided is fitted. Inside the fitting ring 26 (i.e., inside each discharge electrode 20), an airflow passage 27 is formed, through which airflow can easily pass. The airflow passage 27 has multiple arc-shaped slits formed along a concentric virtual circle centered on the axis C. In this example, eight arc-shaped slits are formed on the outside and eight on the inside.

[0068] [Stand 28] Figure 4 illustrates an example of the frame 28. Figure 4(A) is a perspective view of the frame 28, and Figure 4(B) illustrates the state in which the frame 28 is installed.

[0069] The frame 28 in the illustrated example is roughly ring-shaped, and at its lower end, four curved legs 28A are formed at equal intervals, following the shape of the ring. The space between the four legs 28A becomes a ventilation section 28B, as will be described later.

[0070] The legs 28A are formed so as to be able to fit into the airflow passage 27 formed in the discharge electrode holding member 25. In this example, the airflow passage 27 is a plurality of arc-shaped slits along a concentric virtual circle centered on the axis C. In this example, eight arc-shaped slits are formed on the outside and eight on the inside, and the four legs 28A of the frame 28 are alternately fitted into the eight outer arc-shaped slits. In this state, the space between the legs 28A becomes the ventilation section 28B described above.

[0071] As described above, the desiccant 65 can be placed on the frame 28 attached to the discharge electrode holding member 25.

[0072] Therefore, the airflow that passes through the ventilation section 28B from the outside of the roughly ring-shaped frame 28 flows toward the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70 as it passes through the inclined airflow passage 27. This reduces the amount of foreign matter contained in the airflow that adheres to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70. As a result, the cleaning cycle using a cotton swab with the cleaning slit 75 can be extended.

[0073] [Protective sheet 55] Figure 5 illustrates a first example of the protective sheet 55.

[0074] In this example, the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 can be covered by inserting a spacer-shaped protective sheet 55 into each cleaning slit 75. In areas where there are no cleaning slits 75 (arrow R in the figure), the spacer-shaped protective sheet 55 is not present.

[0075] The protective sheets 55 described above help to prevent contamination of the flow path forming cylinder 70 itself. When the protective sheets 55 become dirty, they can be removed, cleaned, and reattached for reuse. Alternatively, the dirty protective sheets 55 can be replaced with new ones.

[0076] Furthermore, because the spacer-shaped protective sheet 55 obstructs the airflow through the cleaning slit 75, the airflow inside the flow path forming cylinder 70 passes only through the airflow passage 27, which is inclined so that the airflow is directed toward the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70, and does not pass through the cleaning slit 75. As a result, the adhesion of foreign matter contained in the airflow to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70 is further reduced.

[0077] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a second example of the protective sheet 55.

[0078] Figure 6(A) is a top view of the protective sheet 55 being attached, and Figure 6(B) is a side view of the protective sheet 55 being attached. Figure 7(A) illustrates the insertion of the first protective sheet 55, and Figure 7(B) illustrates the state in which the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 is half covered with the two protective sheets 55.

[0079] The protective sheet 55 covers the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 to prevent contamination of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 itself. The protective sheet 55 is a curved sheet formed in an arc shape when viewed from above. It can be made from resin or the like. In this example, the protective sheet 55 is made up of four pieces that can cover the entire inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70. In other words, it is made up of four cylindrical sheets divided into four sections.

[0080] Each of the protective sheets 55 described above is inserted into the flow path forming cylinder 70 through the cleaning slit 75 so as to cover the inner circumferential surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70. A tab 55A is provided on the upper part of each protective sheet 55.

[0081] The protective sheets 55 described above help to prevent contamination of the flow path forming cylinder 70 itself. When the protective sheets 55 become dirty, they can be removed, cleaned, and reattached for reuse. Alternatively, the dirty protective sheets 55 can be replaced with new ones.

[0082] Figures 8 to 10 illustrate a third example of the protective sheet 55.

[0083] In this example, by sliding two protective sheets 55 on one side, the area of ​​the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 that does not have a cleaning slit 75 can also be covered with the protective sheets 55. A retaining member 56 that slidably holds the two protective sheets 55 is inserted into the cleaning slit 75. The two protective sheets 55 can slide in the circumferential direction. The inner surface of the retaining member 56 can be designed so that the protective sheets 55 are not exposed to the inside. The retaining member 56, like the protective sheets 55, suppresses contamination of the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 and is also replaceable.

[0084] The protective sheets 55 and retaining members 56 described above help to prevent contamination of the flow path forming cylinder 70 itself. When the protective sheets 55 and retaining members 56 become dirty, they can be removed, cleaned, and reattached for reuse. Alternatively, the dirty protective sheets 55 and retaining members 56 can be replaced with new ones.

[0085] Figure 11 illustrates a fourth example of the protective sheet 55.

[0086] In this example, by sliding one protective sheet 55 on one side, the area of ​​the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 that does not have a cleaning slit 75 can also be covered with the protective sheet 55. A retaining member 56 that holds one protective sheet 55 in a slidable manner is inserted into the cleaning slit 75. The protective sheet 55 can slide in the circumferential direction. In this example as well, the retaining member 56, like the protective sheet 55, suppresses contamination of the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 and is also replaceable.

[0087] The protective sheets 55 and retaining members 56 described above help to prevent contamination of the flow path forming cylinder 70 itself. When the protective sheets 55 and retaining members 56 become dirty, they can be removed, cleaned, and reattached for reuse. Alternatively, the dirty protective sheets 55 and retaining members 56 can be replaced with new ones.

[0088] [Effects of the Embodiment]

[0089] The air purification device of this embodiment comprises a counter electrode 10, a discharge electrode 20, and a flow path forming cylinder 70. A positive potential is applied to the counter electrode 10. The discharge electrode 20 has its tip positioned toward the counter electrode 10 and is subjected to a negative potential to generate an ion wind by corona discharge. The flow path forming cylinder 70 forms a flow path for the ion wind between the counter electrode 10 and the discharge electrode 20. A desiccant 65 is placed upstream of the discharge electrode 20. The desiccant 65 removes moisture from the air introduced into the flow path. This prevents foreign matter such as conductive substances and ions caused by moisture in the air from entering between the discharge electrode 20 and the counter electrode 10, and prevents fluctuations in the current and voltage between the discharge electrode 20 and the counter electrode 10 due to the presence of such foreign matter. Therefore, it is possible to prevent undesirable phenomena such as fluctuations in the wind speed and volume of the ion wind, fluctuations in discharge noise, and fluctuations in ozone concentration caused by fluctuations in current and voltage. In addition, the above-mentioned desiccant also provides an odor-removing effect.

[0090] The air purification device of this embodiment further includes a discharge electrode holding member 25. The discharge electrode holding member 25 holds a plurality of discharge electrodes 20 at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70. By arranging the discharge electrodes 20 at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis C of the flow path forming cylinder 70, an ion wind flows effectively through the flow path in the flow path forming cylinder 70 with a highly uniform airflow rate. Furthermore, since the desiccant 65 is placed upstream of the discharge electrode holding member 25, it is possible to prevent foreign matter caused by moisture in the air from entering the downstream side of the discharge electrodes 20. As a result, it is possible to prevent undesirable phenomena such as fluctuations in the current and voltage between the discharge electrodes 20 and the counter electrode 10 due to such foreign matter, fluctuations in the wind speed and volume of the ion wind, fluctuations in discharge noise, and fluctuations in ozone concentration. Furthermore, the discharge electrode holding member 25 has a cleaning slit 75 formed along the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 for cleaning the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70. Therefore, the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70 can be easily cleaned with a cotton swab or the like using the cleaning slit 75. Consequently, even if foreign matter caused by moisture that could not be captured by the desiccant 65 adheres to the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70, it can be easily restored through maintenance. Even if fluctuations in current or voltage occur due to foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70, maintenance can be easily performed. In particular, by arranging multiple discharge electrodes 20 at equal intervals on the virtual ring, there is nothing to obstruct the removal of foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow channel forming cylinder 70, making cleaning easy.

[0091] In this embodiment of the air purification device, the cleaning slit 75 is formed between the virtual ring formed by the discharge electrode 20 and the flow path forming cylinder 70. By arranging multiple discharge electrodes 20 at equal intervals on the virtual ring, there is nothing to obstruct the removal of foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70, making cleaning easy.

[0092] In this embodiment, the air purification device is configured such that the outer surface of the cleaning slit 75 is flush with the inner circumferential surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70. Because the outer surface of the cleaning slit 75 is flush with the inner circumferential surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70, foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70 can be easily removed using the cleaning slit 75.

[0093] In this embodiment of the air purification device, the cleaning slit 75 is set to a width dimension that allows the shaft of a cleaning cotton swab to pass through, and a head passage space 75A is formed at at least one end of the cleaning slit 75 through which the head of the cleaning cotton swab can pass. In this way, by using a commercially available cleaning cotton swab, passing its head through the head passage space 75A and its shaft through the cleaning slit 75, foreign matter adhering to the inner surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70 can be easily removed using the cleaning slit 75.

[0094] In this embodiment, the air purification device has a pre-filter 60 positioned upstream of the desiccant 65. This allows air from which dust and other particles have been removed by the pre-filter 60 to come into contact with the desiccant 65, thereby preventing contamination of the desiccant 65 and extending its desiccant absorption effect.

[0095] In this embodiment, the air purification device can suppress contamination of the flow path forming cylinder 70 by inserting a protective sheet 55 into the cleaning slit 75 to cover the inner circumferential surface of the flow path forming cylinder 70 and prevent contamination of the flow path forming cylinder 70 itself.

[0096] 〔summary〕 By arranging the protruding discharge electrodes 20 at regular intervals and applying a high voltage between them to the honeycomb ceramic counter electrodes 10, an ion wind with sufficient airflow velocity can be obtained. This airflow velocity ensures sufficient air intake, allowing dust and other particles to be filtered out by the pre-filter 60, and also allowing the intake air to come into sufficient contact with the desiccant 65.

[0097] Furthermore, it draws in air from the top and exhausts it as an ionized wind towards the bottom. It has a structure that allows intake from all 360 degrees. The central conical rectifier member 50 exhibits the Coanda effect, enabling exhaust in all 360 degrees. In addition, by having the intake from the top, a desiccant 65 can be easily installed in front of the intake section.

[0098] [Variation] Although the above describes particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, and can be implemented in various forms, and the present invention is intended to encompass various modifications. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0099] 1: Electrode Unit 10: Counter electrode 11: Flow channel opening 15: Counter electrode holding member 15A: Multi-layered section 15B: Bottom end 20:Discharge electrode 21: Ring section 25: Discharge electrode holding member 26: Mating ring 27: Airflow Inlet 28: Stand 28A: Legs 28B: Ventilation section 30: Casing 31: Air intake 32: Exhaust vent 33:Bottom member 33A: Protrusion 34: Lid component 40: Power supply section 41: Safety switch 42: LED 50: Rectifier 51:Top 52: Mounting part 55: Protective sheet 55A: Pick 56: Retaining member 60: Prefilter 65: Desiccant 70: Channel forming cylinder 70A: Bottom end 75: Cleaning slit 75A: Head passage space

Claims

1. A counter electrode to which a positive potential is applied, A discharge electrode is positioned with its tip facing the counter electrode, and a negative potential is applied to generate an ion wind by corona discharge. The system comprises a channel-forming cylinder that forms a channel for the ion wind between the counter electrode and the discharge electrode. A desiccant is placed upstream of the discharge electrode mentioned above. An air purification device characterized by the following features.

2. The system further comprises a discharge electrode holding member that holds a plurality of discharge electrodes at equal intervals on a virtual ring centered on the axis of the above-mentioned flow channel forming cylinder, The desiccant is placed upstream of the discharge electrode holding member. The discharge electrode holding member has a cleaning slit formed along the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder for cleaning the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder. The air purification device according to claim 1.

3. The cleaning slit is formed between the virtual ring formed by the discharge electrode and the flow channel forming cylinder. The air purification device according to claim 2.

4. The outer surface of the cleaning slit is configured to be flush with the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder. The air purification device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The cleaning slit is set to a width that allows the shaft of the cleaning swab to pass through, and a head passage space is formed at at least one end of the cleaning slit that allows the head of the cleaning swab to pass through. The air purification device according to claim 2 or 3.

6. A pre-filter is placed upstream of the above-mentioned desiccant. An air purification device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. A protective sheet can be inserted into the cleaning slit to cover the inner circumferential surface of the flow channel forming cylinder and prevent the flow channel forming cylinder itself from becoming contaminated. The air purification device according to claim 4.

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