Disinfection system

Abstract

To provide a sterilization system capable of easily realizing confirmation of a sterilization effect by a user.SOLUTION: A sterilization system comprises: a sterilization device which sterilizes particles to be captured; a processor which processes data output from the sterilization device; and a display device which displays a sterilization amount calculated by the processor. The sterilization device has: a particle collecting part which includes a pair of electrodes separated from each other, and collects particles; an ultraviolet light source which irradiates the particle collecting part with ultraviolet light; and a fluorescent light detection part which detects fluorescent light generated from the particle collecting part in irradiating with ultraviolet light, where the processor acquires first fluorescent light data which is output from the fluorescent light detection part at first timing, and second fluorescent light data which is output from the fluorescent light detection part at second timing later than the first timing, and calculates a sterilization amount sterilized on the particle collecting part on the basis of the first fluorescent light data and the second fluorescent light data, and the display device displays first display data showing the sterilization amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization system, and particularly to a sterilization system for sterilizing microorganisms and the like present in air. [Background Art]

[0002] In recent years, there has been an increasing need for sterilizing interiors and the like used by an unspecified number of people. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a vehicle interior lamp that irradiates light into the interior of a vehicle compartment. This vehicle interior lamp is provided with an ultraviolet light source that emits ultraviolet light. This enables sterilization of areas irradiated with ultraviolet light in the vehicle interior. [Prior Art Document] [Patent Document]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-254673 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] When a vehicle user employs the vehicle interior lamp according to Patent Document 1, it is difficult to determine how much sterilization is actually performed by the vehicle interior lamp. Therefore, it is desired for users to be able to confirm whether the vehicle interior lamp actually exerts a sterilization effect.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a sterilization system that allows a user to easily confirm the sterilization effect. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] A sterilization system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a sterilization device for sterilizing collected fine particles, a processing device for processing data output from the sterilization device, and a display device for displaying the amount of sterilization calculated by the processing device. The sterilization device includes a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other, a fine particle collection unit for collecting fine particles, an ultraviolet light source for irradiating the fine particle collection unit with ultraviolet light, and a fluorescence detection unit for detecting fluorescence generated from the fine particle collection unit when ultraviolet light is irradiated. The processing device acquires first fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a first timing and second fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a second timing later than the first timing while ultraviolet light is irradiated by the ultraviolet light source. Based on the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data, it calculates the amount of sterilization performed on the fine particle collection unit from the first timing to the second timing, and the display device displays first display data indicating the amount of sterilization.

[0007] According to this sterilization system, the processing unit calculates the amount of sterilization to be performed on the microbial collection section from the first timing to the second timing, based on the first and second fluorescence data output from the sterilization device. The display device then displays the first display data indicating the amount of sterilization. This allows the user of the sterilization system to easily confirm the sterilization effect of the sterilization device from the first timing to the second timing via the display device.

[0008] The first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data each correspond to fluorescence intensity, and the amount of sterilization may correspond to the difference between the first and second fluorescence data. In this case, the processing device can easily calculate the amount of sterilization.

[0009] The processing device acquires third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a third timing later than the second timing during ultraviolet irradiation, calculates the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the microbial collection unit from the second timing to the third timing based on the second and third fluorescence data, and the display device may display second display data indicating the second amount of sterilization.

[0010] The ultraviolet light source may intermittently irradiate the particulate matter collection unit with ultraviolet light. For example, the ultraviolet light source may irradiate with ultraviolet light when the microbial collection unit is not collecting microorganisms, and may not irradiate with ultraviolet light when the microbial collection unit is collecting microorganisms. In this case, it is possible to suppress inaccuracies in the calculation of the amount of sterilization caused by the increase or decrease in the amount of microorganisms collected by the microbial collection unit.

[0011] The ultraviolet light source interrupts ultraviolet irradiation at the second timing and resumes ultraviolet irradiation from the third timing, which is later than the second timing, to the fourth timing, which is even later than the third timing. The processing device acquires the third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the third timing and the fourth fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the fourth timing. Based on the third and fourth fluorescence data, it calculates the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the third timing to the fourth timing, and the display device may display second display data indicating the second amount of sterilization. In this case, the user can easily check the change in the amount of sterilization according to the amount of microorganisms continuously collected by the sterilization device via the display device.

[0012] The processing device may acquire fluorescence data of the microparticles themselves located on the microparticle collection unit as unwanted fluorescence data during ultraviolet irradiation, and calculate the amount of sterilization based on the first fluorescence data, the second fluorescence data, and the unwanted fluorescence data. In this case, since noise caused by the microparticles can be eliminated, the display device can display data indicating a more appropriate amount of sterilization.

[0013] The sterilization device further includes a light source that irradiates the particulate matter collection section with excitation light having a different wavelength than ultraviolet light, and the fluorescence detection section may include an optical filter that blocks light having a wavelength at least less than or equal to the wavelength of the excitation light. In this case, using excitation light can improve the intensity of fluorescence detected by the fluorescence detection section. As a result, the fluorescence detection section can accurately detect the change in each fluorescence data.

[0014] The sterilization device further includes an air inlet located upstream of the particulate matter collection unit and an air outlet located downstream of the particulate matter collection unit, and the ultraviolet light source may irradiate one of a pair of electrodes with ultraviolet light. In this case, the sterilization device can sterilize microorganisms and other particles present in the air. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a disinfection system that allows users to easily confirm the disinfection effect. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the disinfection system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the main parts of the sterilization device and processing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the change in fluorescence intensity over time inside the sterilization device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows another example of the change in fluorescence intensity over time within a disinfection device related to a reference example. [Figure 5] Figure 5(a) shows the change in fluorescence intensity over time within the sterilization device according to the second embodiment, and Figure 5(b) shows the change in ultraviolet light intensity over time within the sterilization device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6(a) shows the change in fluorescence intensity over time inside a sterilization device according to a modified example of the second embodiment, and Figure 6(b) shows the change in ultraviolet light intensity over time inside a sterilization device according to a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the main parts of the sterilization device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] Figures 8(a) and 8(b) are block diagrams illustrating the schematic configuration of different examples of sterilization systems. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of one aspect of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used for elements that are the same or have the same function, and redundant descriptions will be omitted. In this specification, viruses are defined as microorganisms.

[0018] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a disinfection system according to the first embodiment. The disinfection system 100 shown in Figure 1 is a system that includes a disinfection device for disinfecting or sterilizing microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses floating in the air. Microorganisms may float in the air as individual microorganisms, or they may be attached to airborne particles, etc. Airborne particles are substances that can float in the air, such as dust, atmospheric aerosol particles, and suspended particulate matter. The disinfection system 100 includes a disinfection device 200 for disinfecting the collected airborne particles, a processing device 300 for processing data output from the disinfection device 200, and a display device 400 for displaying the amount of disinfection calculated by the processing device 300.

[0019] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the main parts of the sterilization device and processing device according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the sterilization device 200 may be stationary or portable. As shown in Figure 1, the sterilization device 200 mainly comprises a microbial collection unit 2, an ultraviolet light source 3, and a fluorescence detection unit 4. In the first embodiment, a part of the microbial collection unit 2, the ultraviolet light source 3, and the fluorescence detection unit 4 are each installed inside the housing 7 of the sterilization device 200 (see Figure 2). In addition, the processing device 300 is also installed inside the housing 7. On the other hand, another part of the microbial collection unit 2 and at least a part of the display device 400 are installed so as to be exposed from the housing 7. The sterilization device 200 may also be equipped with, for example, an alarm capable of generating sound. Furthermore, a part of the housing 7 may be separable. This allows for easy maintenance of the microbial collection unit 2 and other components.

[0020] The microbial collection unit 2 is a component that collects microorganisms, etc., present in the air or on a predetermined object. In this specification, "microorganisms, etc." is a concept that includes at least microorganisms. In this embodiment, "microorganisms, etc." is a concept that includes microorganisms in addition to fine particles. In the first embodiment, the microbial collection unit 2 has the function of collecting microorganisms, etc., located outside the sterilization device 200, and the function of collecting the collected microorganisms, etc. The microbial collection unit 2 has an air inlet 11, a collection device 12, and an air outlet 13.

[0021] The air intake section 11 is a part that continuously or intermittently introduces air from outside the sterilization device 200 into the housing 7. In the first embodiment, the air intake section 11 is an opening provided in the housing 7, but is not limited to this. A blower or the like may be provided in the air intake section 11. If the sterilization device 200 is portable, microorganisms attached to a predetermined object can be introduced into the housing 7 by bringing the air intake section 11 close to the object. From the viewpoint of preventing external light from entering the housing 7 from the air intake section 11, a canopy or the like may be provided around the air intake section 11.

[0022] The collection device 12 is a device for collecting microorganisms and the like introduced into the housing 7, and includes a pair of electrodes 12a and 12b, and a power supply 12c connected to the electrodes 12a and 12b. The pair of electrodes 12a and 12b are the parts to which microorganisms and the like adhere, and are located downstream of the air intake section 11 and spaced apart from each other. At least one of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b may have a mesh shape. In this case, air stagnation due to the electrodes 12a and 12b can be suppressed. The fineness of the mesh is not particularly limited. By making the mesh finer, a high electric field can be generated between the electrodes 12a and 12b, which tends to improve the efficiency of collecting microorganisms and the like. By making the mesh larger, air stagnation due to the electrodes 12a and 12b can be effectively suppressed. By charging the electrodes 12a and 12b with the power supply 12c, microorganisms and the like can be efficiently collected on the electrodes 12a and 12b. At least a portion of the surfaces of electrodes 12a and 12b may be coated with a photocatalyst such as titanium dioxide. In the first embodiment, the shapes and orientations of electrodes 12a and 12b are different from each other, but are not limited thereto.

[0023] The air discharge section 13 is the part that discharges air from the inside of the housing 7 to the outside of the sterilization device 200, and is located downstream of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b. In the first embodiment, the air discharge section 13 is a blower mounted in another opening provided in the housing 7, but is not limited to this. For example, if a blower or the like is provided in the air intake section 11, the air discharge section 13 may only have an opening. From the viewpoint of preventing external light from entering the inside of the housing 7 from the air discharge section 13, a canopy or the like may be provided around the air discharge section 13.

[0024] The ultraviolet light source 3 is a component that irradiates the microbial collection section 2 (particularly at least one of electrodes 12a and 12b) with ultraviolet UV light, and includes, for example, a discharge tube, a light-emitting diode (LED), etc. The ultraviolet light source 3 has, for example, a wavelength of 180 nm to 400 nm and a power output of 10 mW / cm². 2 Ultraviolet (UV) light of a certain intensity is irradiated. This effectively disinfects the microorganisms located on the microbial collection section 2. The UV light may include multiple UV rays with different wavelengths.

[0025] The fluorescence detection unit 4 is a component that detects fluorescence generated from the microbial collection unit 2 when irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light, and is, for example, a visible light sensor. The fluorescence detection unit 4 detects fluorescence generated from, for example, electrode 12a. Detection information (fluorescence data) indicating the fluorescence detection result by the fluorescence detection unit 4 is output to the processing unit 300. The fluorescence detection unit 4 detects light with a longer wavelength than ultraviolet (UV). The wavelength of this light is, for example, 500 nm or more and 600 nm or less. The fluorescence detection unit 4 has an optical filter that transmits only the above wavelength of light and its vicinity. In this case, noise output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 can be reduced.

[0026] The processing unit 300 is a device that calculates the amount of disinfection performed by the disinfection device 200 based on the fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit 4, and is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read Only Memory). The processing unit 300 outputs display data (image signal) showing the calculated amount of disinfection to the display device 400 via, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet. For this reason, the processing unit 300 has a communication unit (not shown) capable of communicating various data. The above display data may include, for example, data showing the measurement result of the amount of disinfection performed by the disinfection device 200, as well as data showing the time until the update of the measurement result of the amount of disinfection, data showing the airflow rate of the air discharge unit 13, and data showing the temperature and humidity of the exhaled air. The data showing the measurement result of the amount of disinfection is, for example, numerical data, graph data showing the amount of disinfection as it changes over time, etc. If the amount of fine particles (microorganisms) flowing into the disinfection device 200 changes rapidly, the above numerical data may be a positive value or a negative value.

[0027] The larger the positive value displayed on the display device 400, the greater the amount of sterilization. Therefore, the larger the positive value, the greater the amount of microorganisms, etc., in the vicinity of the processing device 300. Accordingly, if the positive value displayed on the display device 400 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the processing device 300 may perform notification processing (for example, alarm notification processing by a speaker not shown, light notification processing by a lamp not shown, etc.). On the other hand, if a negative value is displayed on the display device 400, it may indicate that the amount of fine particles (microorganisms) flowing into the sterilization device 200 is greater than the amount of sterilization performed by the sterilization device 200. In other words, it indicates that the amount of microorganisms, etc., deposited (accumulated) in the microorganism collection unit 2 is greater than the amount of sterilization performed by the microorganism collection unit 2. The processing device 300 may also perform the above notification processing when a negative value is displayed on the display device 400. Note that even if the above numerical data is a negative value, sterilization by the sterilization device 200 is still being performed.

[0028] The processing unit 300 also functions as a controller for each component included in the sterilization device 200. The processing unit 300 is a processing unit that not only controls each component included in the sterilization device 200, but also receives / calculates / transmits various signals, and records / reads various signals. An example of the calculation of various signals by the processing unit 300 is the calculation of the amount of sterilization based on the fluorescence data of the fluorescence detection unit 4. For this reason, the processing unit 300 has, for example, a part for outputting a control signal for the microbial collection unit 2, a part for outputting a control signal for the ultraviolet light source 3, a part for receiving the detection result of the fluorescence detection unit 4, a part for calculating the amount of sterilization from the detection result, and a part (storage unit) for storing each signal and each piece of information. The processing unit 300 outputs specified operating signals to the power supply 12c of the microbial collection unit 2, the ultraviolet light source 3, etc., via, for example, the display device 400.

[0029] In the first embodiment, the processing device 300 controls the microbial collection unit 2 to intermittently introduce air from outside the housing 7. More specifically, the processing device 300 controls the microbial collection unit 2 to operate the air discharge unit 13 intermittently. The processing device 300 may control the power supply 12c to continuously charge electrodes 12a and 12b, or to charge them intermittently. In the first embodiment, the processing device 300 controls the ultraviolet light source 3 to continuously irradiate ultraviolet UV from the time the introduction of air by the microbial collection unit 2 is stopped. The processing device 300 may continuously acquire fluorescence data from the fluorescence detection unit 4, or to acquire fluorescence data intermittently. In the first embodiment, the processing device 300 continuously acquires fluorescence data while irradiating with ultraviolet UV from the ultraviolet light source 3, but is not limited to this. The processing device 300 may acquire fluorescence data intermittently.

[0030] The display device 400 is a component that displays an image based on display data output from the processing device 300. The display device 400 may display an image corresponding to one display data, or it may display images corresponding to multiple display data. In the first embodiment, the display device 400 is a separate device from the sterilization device 200 and the processing device 300. As described above, the display device 400 can communicate wirelessly with the processing device 300. Therefore, a user of the display device 400 can easily check an image indicating the amount of sterilization even from a remote location. The display device 400 may be a device dedicated to the sterilization system 100, or it may not be a device dedicated to the sterilization system 100. In the former case, the display device 400 includes, for example, one or more liquid crystal displays and a user interface such as a touch panel. In the latter case, the display device 400 is, for example, a smartphone or tablet capable of running an application for operating the sterilization system 100. For example, when the display device 400 receives input from an operator (user), input information indicating the input content may be output to the processing device 300. In this case, the user of the display device 400 can easily control the operation of the sterilization device 200 and / or the processing device 300 from a remote location. The input information is, for example, data related to start instructions, stop instructions, operation change instructions, etc. for the sterilization device 200.

[0031] The following describes the outline of the disinfection method of the disinfection system 100 according to the first embodiment, with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the change in fluorescence intensity over time within the disinfection device. In Figure 3, the vertical axis represents fluorescence intensity, and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0032] First, the sterilization device 200 collects microorganisms, etc., by the microbial collection unit 2 until timing T1 (first timing) shown in Figure 3 (first step). In the first step, the blower of the air discharge unit 13 is activated to introduce air into the housing 7 via the air introduction unit 11. Microorganisms, etc., present in the air are then collected by the charged electrodes 12a and 12b. Subsequently, the collection of microorganisms, etc., ends at timing T1. At this time, the blower is stopped. On the other hand, the charged state of electrodes 12a and 12b may be maintained.

[0033] Next, the processing unit 300 acquires fluorescence data (first fluorescence data) output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 at timing T1 (second step). In the second step, first, ultraviolet UV light is irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 3 toward electrodes 12a and 12b at timing T1. This generates fluorescence caused by the microparticles (fluorescence generated from the microparticles themselves) and fluorescence caused by the microorganisms (fluorescence generated from the microorganisms themselves). Subsequently, the fluorescence detection unit 4 acquires the fluorescence intensity F1 at timing T1. Next, the fluorescence detection unit 4 outputs the fluorescence intensity F1 as the first fluorescence data to the processing unit 300. The processing unit 300 then acquires the first fluorescence data from the fluorescence detection unit 4. Note that the fluorescence intensity F1 is the sum of the fluorescence intensity generated from the microparticles themselves and the fluorescence intensity generated from the microorganisms themselves.

[0034] In the first embodiment, timing T1 does not correspond to a specific moment in time, but rather to a specific period of time. Therefore, it is not necessary for all of the above items to be performed at a specific moment in time. In addition, each fluorescence data is a feature quantity (predefined value) whose fluorescence intensity has been appropriately converted by the processing device 300. For example, in the first embodiment, the first fluorescence data corresponding to fluorescence intensity F1 is set to 100.

[0035] Next, the processing unit 300 acquires fluorescence data (second fluorescence data) output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 at a timing T2 (second timing) that is later than timing T1 (third step). In the third step, first, the fluorescence detection unit 4 acquires the fluorescence intensity F2 at timing T2. Subsequently, the fluorescence detection unit 4 outputs the fluorescence intensity F2 as second fluorescence data to the processing unit 300. The processing unit 300 then acquires the second fluorescence data from the fluorescence detection unit 4. For example, in the first embodiment, the second fluorescence data corresponding to the fluorescence intensity F2 is set to 40.

[0036] In the first embodiment, the first period from timing T1 to timing T2 is predetermined, but is not limited to this. For example, the first period can be changed via a user interface such as a display device 400. In the first embodiment, the first period is 30 seconds or more and 1.5 minutes or less. Also in the first embodiment, the processing device 300 continuously acquires fluorescence data from timing T1 to timing T2. Therefore, the processing device 300 can acquire the temporal changes in fluorescence data and create a plot as shown in Figure 3. In the first embodiment, the processing device 300 selects the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data from the acquired fluorescence data.

[0037] Next, the processing device 300 calculates the amount of sterilization to be performed on the microbial collection unit 2 from timing T1 to timing T2 based on the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data (fourth step). In the fourth step, first, the difference between the fluorescence intensity F1, which is the first fluorescence data, and the fluorescence intensity F2, which is the second fluorescence data (fluorescence intensity F1 - fluorescence intensity F2) is calculated. As described above, the collection of microorganisms, etc. by the microbial collection unit 2 is stopped before the start of the second step. For this reason, new microorganisms, etc. are unlikely to accumulate on the microbial collection unit 2 during the first period. Therefore, the above difference can be considered to be substantially equal to the difference in the amount of microorganisms on the microbial collection unit 2. In other words, the above difference can be considered to be substantially equivalent to the amount of sterilization (killing) during the first period.

[0038] Next, the processing device 300 generates first display data indicating the amount of sterilization obtained in the fourth step (fifth step). In the first embodiment, the difference of 60 between the first fluorescence data (100) and the second fluorescence data (40) is generated as the first display data. The processing device 300 then outputs the first display data to the display device 400.

[0039] Next, the display device 400 displays an image (first image) based on the first display data obtained in the fifth step above. In the fifth step, the display device 400 displays "60" as the first image, indicating the amount of sterilization. This allows the user of the sterilization device 200 to recognize that the amount of sterilization during the first period is "60".

[0040] In the first embodiment, the sterilization device 200 repeatedly performs the second to sixth steps described above. This updates the display of the sterilization amount on the sterilization device 200. The method for updating the display of the sterilization amount is as follows, for example. First, at timing T3 (i.e., a third timing later than timing T2) after the first display data is shown on the display device 400, the processing device 300 acquires the third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit 4. The third fluorescence data corresponds to the fluorescence intensity F3 obtained by the fluorescence detection unit 4 at timing T3. In the third embodiment, the third fluorescence data is set to 20. Subsequently, the processing device 300 calculates the amount of sterilization (second sterilization amount) to be sterilized on the microbial collection unit 2 during the second period from timing T2 to timing T3, based on the second fluorescence data and the third fluorescence data. Here, the second sterilization amount is set to "20 (40-20)". Next, the processing device 300 generates second display data indicating the second sterilization amount, and then outputs this second display data to the display device 400. The display device 400 then displays an image (second image) based on this second display data. As a result, the sterilization amount displayed on the display device 400 is updated to "20".

[0041] If the amount of sterilization falls below a predetermined first value, or if it remains below the first value for two or more consecutive times, the microorganisms collected by the sterilization device 200 can be considered to have been almost or completely sterilized. In this case, the process may return to step 1. In this case, the sterilization device 200 stops irradiating with ultraviolet UV light from the ultraviolet light source 3 and resumes collecting microorganisms, etc., by the microorganism collection unit 2. After a predetermined period, steps 2 to 6 are performed again. The predetermined period depends on the microorganism collection capacity of the microorganism collection unit 2, etc., but is, for example, 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The first value is, for example, 5, 3, or 1.

[0042] If the fluorescence data at the time the sterilization amount falls below the first value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (second value), the processing device 300 may determine that the amount of fine particles accumulating on the electrodes 12a and 12b of the microbial collection unit 2 is excessive. In this case, the sterilization device 200 may issue a notification indicating that maintenance of the microbial collection unit 2 is required. This notification may be issued by, for example, an alarm or a message displayed on the display device 400. The second value may be, for example, 100, 90, or 80.

[0043] The following describes the effects and benefits achieved by the disinfection system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0044] The inventors focused on the fact that when a sample on which microorganisms are attached to a predetermined amount of fine particles is disinfected or sterilized by ultraviolet light, the intensity of fluorescence emitted from the sample changes over time even though the amount of fine particles does not change, and conducted diligent research. As a result, it was found that while the intensity of fluorescence emitted from the sample changes in accordance with the change in the amount of microorganisms before and after ultraviolet irradiation, the intensity of fluorescence emitted from the fine particles themselves does not change substantially. From this, it was found that the amount of disinfection within a predetermined period can be calculated by utilizing the time change in the fluorescence intensity emitted from the sample as described above, and that the amount of disinfection can be shown in near real time.

[0045] Based on the above findings, according to the sterilization system 100 of the first embodiment, the processing device 300 can calculate the amount of sterilization performed on the microbial collection unit 2 (for example, one of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b) from timing T1 to timing T2, based on the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data output from the sterilization device 200. The processing device 300 then generates first display data indicating the amount of sterilization, and the display device 400 can display an image based on the first display data. This allows the user of the sterilization system 100 to easily confirm the sterilization effect of the sterilization device 200 from timing T1 to timing T2 via the display device 400. In addition, if the display on the display device 400 decreases and remains small for a long period of time without changing, it can be said that at least a small amount of microorganisms are present in the air around the sterilization device 200. This is because the air outside the sterilization device 200 is sterilized, which reduces the amount of microorganisms and other substances in the air flowing into the sterilization device 200, and therefore reduces the absolute amount of microorganisms and other substances that are captured by the sterilization device 200.

[0046] In the first embodiment, the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data each correspond to fluorescence intensity, and the amount of sterilization corresponds to the difference between the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data. Therefore, the processing device 300 can easily calculate the amount of sterilization.

[0047] In the first embodiment, the processing device 300 acquires third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 at a timing T3 later than timing T2 during ultraviolet UV irradiation, calculates the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the microbial collection unit 2 from timing T2 to timing T3 based on the second fluorescence data and the third fluorescence data, generates second display data indicating the second amount of sterilization, and the display device 400 may display an image based on the second display data. Therefore, the user of the sterilization system 100 can easily confirm whether sterilization by the sterilization device 200 is continuing via the display device 400.

[0048] In the first embodiment, the microbial collection unit 2 of the sterilization device 200 has an air inlet 11 located upstream of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b, and an air outlet 13 located downstream of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b, and the ultraviolet light source 3 irradiates one of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b with ultraviolet UV light. As a result, the sterilization device 200 can sterilize microorganisms present in the air.

[0049] In the first embodiment, a photocatalyst may be applied to at least a portion of one of the surfaces of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b. In this case, the sterilization performance of the sterilization device 200 can be improved.

[0050] In the first embodiment, at least one of the pair of electrodes 12a and 12b has a mesh shape. This makes it possible to suppress the stagnation of air in the microbial collection section 2 caused by the electrodes 12a and 12b.

[0051] (Second Embodiment) The following describes the disinfection system according to the second embodiment. In the description of the second embodiment, descriptions that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described. In other words, to the extent that it is technically possible, descriptions of the first embodiment may be used in the second embodiment as appropriate.

[0052] First, the problems with the disinfection method according to the first embodiment will be explained using the reference example shown in Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing another example of the change in fluorescence intensity over time within the disinfection device according to the reference example. As shown in Figure 4, in the reference example, when the second to sixth steps described in the first embodiment are repeatedly performed, for example, the collection of microorganisms, etc. by the microbial collection unit 2 is restarted between timing T3 and timing T4. In this case, the fluorescence intensity F obtained at timing T4 4a The fluorescence intensity F obtained at timing T3 is 3a This can sometimes become larger. Thus, when the amount of microorganisms (especially particulate matter) on the microbial collection unit 2 increases during disinfection in the disinfection device 200, it becomes difficult to accurately calculate the amount of disinfection.

[0053] In order to prevent the occurrence of the above problem, in the sterilization method according to the second embodiment described below, the ultraviolet light source 3 intermittently irradiates the microorganism collection unit 2 with ultraviolet UV. Details of the sterilization method according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b). FIG. 5(a) is a diagram showing temporal changes in fluorescence intensity in the sterilization apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 5(b) is a diagram showing temporal changes in ultraviolet intensity in the sterilization apparatus according to the second embodiment.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 5, first, at timing T shown in FIG. 5 11 (first timing), the sterilization apparatus 200 collects microorganisms and the like by the microorganism collection unit 2 (step 1A). In step 1A, microorganisms and the like are collected in the same manner as in step 1 of the first embodiment, and at timing T 11 the collection of microorganisms and the like is temporarily suspended.

[0055] Next, the processing device 300 at timing T 11 acquires fluorescence data (first fluorescence data) output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 (step 2A). In step 2A, as shown in FIG. 5(b), ultraviolet UV is irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 3 in the same manner as in step 2 of the first embodiment, and at timing T 11 the fluorescence intensity F at 1b is acquired. Subsequently, the fluorescence detection unit 4 detects the fluorescence intensity F 1b is output to the processing device 300 as first fluorescence data. Then, the processing device 300 acquires the first fluorescence data from the fluorescence detection unit 4. In the second embodiment, the fluorescence intensity F 1b the first fluorescence data corresponding to is set to 100.

[0056] Next, the processing device 300 at timing T 11 timing T later than 12 (second timing) acquires fluorescence data (second fluorescence data) output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 (step 3A). In step 3A, in the same manner as in step 3 of the first embodiment, the fluorescence detection unit 4 operates at timing T 12 the fluorescence intensity F at2b The fluorescence intensity F2 is obtained and output to the processing unit 300 as second fluorescence data. The processing unit 300 then obtains the second fluorescence data from the fluorescence detection unit 4. For example, in the second embodiment, the fluorescence intensity F 2b The corresponding second fluorescence data is considered to be 40.

[0057] Similar to the first embodiment described above, the processing device 300 determines the timing T based on the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data. 11 Timing T 12 The amount of sterilization to be achieved on the microbial collection unit 2 by this time is calculated (Step 4A). The processing device 300 also generates first display data indicating the amount of sterilization obtained in Step 4A (Step 5A). In the first embodiment, the difference of 60 between the first fluorescence data (100) and the second fluorescence data (40) is generated as the first display data. The processing device 300 then displays a first image based on the first display data on the display device 400.

[0058] In parallel with the above 4A step and 5A step, in the second embodiment, timing T 12 At this point, the ultraviolet light source 3 interrupts the irradiation of ultraviolet UV (step 6A). In step 6A, timing T 12 At this point, the acquisition of fluorescence data by the fluorescence detection unit 4 is also interrupted. In addition, in step 6A, timing T 12 The collection of microorganisms, etc. by the microbial collection unit 2 is then resumed. In the second embodiment, the start / stop of collection of microorganisms, etc. by the microbial collection unit 2 is synchronized with the stop / start of ultraviolet irradiation from the ultraviolet light source 3. Specifically, the ultraviolet light source 3 irradiates ultraviolet UV when the microbial collection unit 2 is not collecting microorganisms, etc., and stops irradiating ultraviolet UV when the microbial collection unit 2 is collecting microorganisms, etc.

[0059] The sterilization system according to the second embodiment repeatedly performs the above steps 1A to 6A. As a result, the display of the amount of sterilization on the display device 400 is updated in the second embodiment as well. The method for updating the display of the amount of sterilization is, for example, as follows. First, in the second embodiment, timing T 12 Later timing T 13 At timing T, the collection of microorganisms, etc. by the microbial collection unit 2 is resumed. 13 Therefore, timing T 13 Later timing T 14 The irradiation of ultraviolet UV is resumed until timing T. 13 The fluorescence intensity F output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 is shown. 3b The third fluorescence data corresponding to this, and timing T 14 The fluorescence intensity F output from the fluorescence detection unit 4 is shown. 4b The processing unit 300 then acquires the corresponding fourth fluorescence data based on the third and fourth fluorescence data, timing T 13 Timing T 14 The amount of sterilization to be performed on the microbial collection unit 2 during the period (second sterilization amount) is calculated. Subsequently, the processing device 300 generates second display data indicating the second sterilization amount, and then the display device 400 displays a second image based on the second display data. This updates the sterilization amount displayed on the display device 400.

[0060] In the second embodiment, timing T 12 Timing T 13 The period up to (third period) is predetermined, but is not limited to this. For example, the third period can be changed via a user interface such as a display device 400. In the second embodiment, the third period is 30 seconds or more and 1.5 minutes or less.

[0061] In the second embodiment described above, the same effects and advantages as in the first embodiment are achieved, and the user can easily confirm changes in the amount of sterilization in accordance with the amount of microorganisms continuously collected by the sterilization device 200. In addition, according to the second embodiment, the ultraviolet light source 3 irradiates ultraviolet UV when the microorganism collection unit 2 is not collecting microorganisms, and stops irradiating ultraviolet UV when the microorganism collection unit 2 is collecting microorganisms. Therefore, it is possible to suppress inaccuracies in calculating the amount of sterilization caused by increases or decreases in the amount of microorganisms (especially fine particles) collected by the microorganism collection unit 2. Furthermore, by irradiating the microorganism collection unit 2 with ultraviolet UV for a short period of time and intermittently, the amount of microorganisms present in the air over a predetermined period of time can be increased. Therefore, the sterilization performance of the sterilization device 200 can be effectively demonstrated, and microorganisms present in the air around the sterilization device 200 can be rapidly sterilized.

[0062] In the second embodiment, when calculating fluorescence data, sterilization amount, etc., only the fluorescence intensity obtained during the period of UV irradiation may be used. In other words, the change in fluorescence intensity during the period of UV irradiation may be extracted. This makes it possible to extract the change in fluorescence intensity caused by microorganisms from the acquired fluorescence. In addition, the influence of changes in fluorescence intensity caused by the increase or decrease of collected microorganisms can be reduced.

[0063] In the second embodiment, compared to the first embodiment, the number of microorganisms collected by the microbial collection unit 2 tends to increase. As a result, the proportion of fluorescence generated from the fine particles themselves among the fluorescence intensity obtained from the fluorescence detection unit 4 tends to increase. However, even in the second embodiment, by using the difference between two sets of fluorescence data obtained at different timings, the amount of sterilization can be calculated accurately even when the proportion of fluorescence generated from the fine particles themselves increases.

[0064] In the second embodiment, for example, timing T 11 and timing T 12 If the change in fluorescence intensity between the two points remains below a predetermined value for a period of time longer than a predetermined period, then timing T 11and timing T 12 Between these two points, the collected microorganisms can be considered to have been almost or completely eliminated. In this case, timing T 12 The fluorescence intensity F obtained by [method] 2b This can be considered to correspond to the fluorescence intensity (background noise) generated from the collected particles themselves. That is, fluorescence intensity F 2b This can be considered to correspond to a component that does not change upon irradiation with ultraviolet (UV) light. A modified version of the second embodiment, based on the above findings, will be described with reference to Figures 6(a) and (b).

[0065] Figure 6(a) shows the change in fluorescence intensity over time inside the sterilization device according to a modified example of the second embodiment. Figure 6(b) shows the change in ultraviolet light intensity over time inside the sterilization device according to a modified example of the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 6(a), the processing device 300 operates similarly to the first embodiment, timing T 11 and timing T 12 Fluorescence data is continuously acquired between these two points. The processing device 300 then determines whether the period during which the change in fluorescence intensity (difference) is below a predetermined value continues for a predetermined period or longer. In this modified example, timing T 11 and timing T 12 Timing T between X Timing T 12 The period up to that point falls under the above-mentioned specified period. In addition, timing T 11 and timing T 12 The change in fluorescence intensity obtained between the two is less than or equal to the predetermined value. In this case, the processing apparatus 300 controls the timing T X Timing T 12 At least one of the multiple fluorescence data obtained up to this point is determined to be fluorescence data generated from the microparticles themselves collected by the microbial collection unit 2. Subsequently, the processing device 300 acquires the determined fluorescence data as unwanted fluorescence data corresponding to background noise. In this modified example, the fluorescence intensity corresponding to the unwanted fluorescence data is determined to be timing T 12 Fluorescence intensity F obtained at 2cThis corresponds to the above. The processing device 300 then calculates the amount of sterilization based on the first fluorescence data, the second fluorescence data, and the unwanted fluorescence data. The predetermined values ​​are, for example, 3, 2, 1, or 0.5. The predetermined period is, for example, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, or 3 seconds.

[0066] Next, timing T 13 Timing T 14 During this time, the processing device 300 calculates the fluorescence intensity F corresponding to unwanted fluorescence data from the fluorescence intensity obtained from the fluorescence detection unit 4. 2c This is deducted in advance. This results in timing T 13 Timing T 14 During the period up to timing T 12 The fluorescence emitted from the microparticles themselves that have been collected by this point is eliminated. Therefore, timing T 13 Obtained with fluorescence intensity F 1c Fluorescence intensity F can be smaller than 3c A third fluorescence data corresponding to this is generated.

[0067] In the modified configuration described above, the same effects and advantages as those of the second embodiment are achieved. In addition, the influence of changes in fluorescence intensity caused by increases or decreases in collected microorganisms can be further reduced. As a result, noise caused by fine particles can be eliminated, and the display device 400 can display display data indicating a more appropriate amount of sterilization.

[0068] In this modified example, unnecessary fluorescence data may be updated. For example, timing T 13 Timing T 14 Even during this period, if the processing device 300 determines that the period during which the change in fluorescence intensity (difference) is below a predetermined value continues for a predetermined period or longer, the processing device 300 will perform the following actions at timing T 14 The fluorescence intensity obtained is also considered unnecessary fluorescence data. In this case, the processing device 300 sets the timing T 11 Timing T 12 The fluorescence intensity corresponding to the unwanted fluorescence data obtained up to this point is set to timing T 14The fluorescence intensity obtained is added. That is, when the processing device 300 updates unwanted fluorescence data, it adds the fluorescence intensity corresponding to the newly acquired unwanted fluorescence data with the fluorescence intensity corresponding to the unwanted fluorescence data used immediately before. This effectively reduces the influence of changes in fluorescence intensity caused by newly collected fine particles. For example, if fine particles collected in the microbial collection unit 2 are removed, the unwanted fluorescence data may also be updated.

[0069] (Third embodiment) The following describes the sterilization system according to the third embodiment. In the description of the third embodiment, descriptions that overlap with the first and second embodiments will be omitted, and only the parts that differ from the first and second embodiments will be described. In other words, to the extent that it is technically possible, descriptions of the first and second embodiments may be used in the third embodiment as appropriate.

[0070] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the main parts of a sterilization device according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the sterilization device 200A differs from the sterilization device 200 of the first embodiment in that it further includes a light source 8 that irradiates the microbial collection unit 2 with excitation light L different from ultraviolet UV. The light source 8 is a component that irradiates excitation light L to generate fluorescence in microorganisms, etc., and is, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode). Within the housing 7, the light source 8 is positioned so as to irradiate the electrode 12a with excitation light L. In the third embodiment, the light source 8 is positioned between electrodes 12a and 12b, but is not limited thereto. For example, the light source 8 may be positioned adjacent to the ultraviolet light source 3. In this case, the electrode 12b may be provided with an opening for the excitation light L to pass through. The light source 8 is controlled by the processing device 300A. The light source 8 may irradiate the excitation light L continuously or intermittently. When the excitation light L is irradiated intermittently, the start and stop of the excitation light L may be synchronized with the start and stop of the ultraviolet UV.

[0071] The wavelength of the excitation light L is different from the wavelength of ultraviolet (UV) light and should be lower than the wavelength of the fluorescence described above. For this reason, the excitation light L may be ultraviolet light or visible light. The wavelength of the excitation light L is, for example, between 300 nm and 450 nm. In the third embodiment, the wavelength of the excitation light L is about 400 nm.

[0072] An optical filter (not shown) provided in the fluorescence detection unit 4A included in the sterilization device 200A blocks light having at least the wavelength of the excitation light L and ultraviolet UV light. As a result, the intensity of light acquired by the fluorescence detection unit 4A does not contain the intensity of the excitation light L at all or substantially. In the third embodiment, the optical filter blocks light having a wavelength less than or equal to the wavelength of the excitation light L.

[0073] In the third embodiment described above, the same effects and advantages as in the first embodiment are achieved. In addition, the use of excitation light L makes fluorescence easier to generate compared to the case where only ultraviolet UV light is irradiated onto the electrode 12a. As a result, the fluorescence intensity obtained by the fluorescence detection unit 4A can be improved, and the fluorescence detection unit 4A can accurately detect the change in each fluorescence data. Therefore, the time change in the amount of sterilization can be obtained with accuracy.

[0074] A sterilization system relating to one aspect of the present invention is described in the following [1] to [8], and these have been explained in detail based on the above embodiments and modifications. [1] A sterilization device that sterilizes the captured fine particles, A processing device for processing data output from the aforementioned sterilization device, A display device that displays the amount of sterilization calculated by the aforementioned processing device, A sterilization system equipped with, The aforementioned sterilization device is A particulate collection section that includes a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other and collects fine particles, An ultraviolet light source that irradiates the aforementioned particulate matter collection section with ultraviolet light, It has a fluorescence detection unit that detects fluorescence generated from the fine particle collection unit when the ultraviolet light is irradiated, The aforementioned processing apparatus is During irradiation with ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light source, first fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a first timing and second fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a second timing later than the first timing are acquired. Based on the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data, the amount of sterilization performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the first timing to the second timing is calculated. The display device displays first display data indicating the amount of sterilization. Disinfection system. [2] The first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data each correspond to fluorescence intensity, The disinfection system according to [1], wherein the amount of disinfection is the difference between the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data. [3] The processing apparatus is During the irradiation of ultraviolet light, a third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit is acquired at a third timing later than the second timing. Based on the second fluorescence data and the third fluorescence data, the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the second timing to the third timing is calculated. The disinfection system according to [1] or [2], wherein the display device displays second display data indicating the second amount of disinfection. [4] The sterilization system according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the ultraviolet light source intermittently irradiates the particulate matter collection section with ultraviolet light. [5] The ultraviolet light source is At the second timing, the irradiation of ultraviolet light is interrupted. The irradiation of ultraviolet light is restarted from a third timing later than the second timing, to a fourth timing later than the third timing. The aforementioned processing apparatus is The third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the third timing and the fourth fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the fourth timing are acquired. Based on the third fluorescence data and the fourth fluorescence data, the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the third timing to the fourth timing is calculated. The disinfection system according to [4], wherein the display device displays second display data indicating the second amount of disinfection. [6] The processing apparatus is During the irradiation of ultraviolet light, the fluorescence data of the fine particles themselves located on the fine particle collection unit is acquired as unwanted fluorescence data. A disinfection system according to any one of [1] to [5], which calculates the amount of disinfection based on the first fluorescence data, the second fluorescence data, and the unwanted fluorescence data. [7] The sterilization device further comprises a light source that irradiates the particulate matter collection section with excitation light different from ultraviolet light, The sterilization system according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the fluorescence detection unit has an optical filter that blocks light having a wavelength at least less than or equal to the wavelength of the excitation light. [8] The sterilization device further comprises an air inlet located upstream of the particulate matter collection unit and an air outlet located downstream of the particulate matter collection unit, The sterilization system according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the ultraviolet light source irradiates one of the pair of electrodes with ultraviolet light.

[0075] However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, modifications, and [1] to [8]. One aspect of the present invention can be further modified without departing from its spirit. The above embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate. For example, the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined, or the modifications and the third embodiment may be combined. When the second embodiment and the third embodiment are combined, the excitation light may be irradiated continuously. In this case, the fluorescence detection unit can obtain the fluorescence intensity during periods when ultraviolet light is not irradiated. This makes it easy to obtain the fluorescence intensity generated from the collected fine particles themselves. That is, background noise can be easily obtained.

[0076] In each of the embodiments and modifications described above, the microbial collection unit includes an air inlet and an air outlet in addition to the collection device, but is not limited to this. The microbial collection unit only needs to include a collection device, and the air inlet and air outlet do not need to be included in the sterilization device. In this case, the sterilization device may be attached to, for example, an air conditioner. For example, the sterilization device may be attached to the air inlet or air outlet of an air conditioner, or it may be installed inside the air conditioner. This makes it easy to add the sterilization function and sterilization amount confirmation function of the present invention to commercially available air conditioners and the like.

[0077] In the above embodiments and modifications, the processing device is installed inside the casing of the sterilization device, but this is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 8(a), in the sterilization system 100A, the processing device 300B may be installed inside the display device 400A. In this case, the sterilization device 200B transmits fluorescence data and the like to the processing device 300B via a communication unit (not shown) to, for example, a controller (not shown) that controls each component, the processing device 300B, etc. The processing device 300B outputs data indicating the calculated amount of sterilization to the display device 400A. Also, as shown in the sterilization system 100B in Figure 8(b), the sterilization device 200B, the processing device 300C, and the display device 400 may be independent devices. The same effects and advantages as in the above embodiments and modifications are achieved in these sterilization systems 100A and 100B as well.

[0078] In each of the above embodiments and modifications, the sterilization device may have a mechanism for performing zero-point calibration (calibration mechanism). The calibration mechanism is a mechanism that performs zero-point calibration in accordance with time changes in the state of the particulate matter collection section (degree of accumulation of particulate matter, etc.), the state of the ultraviolet light source (degree of deterioration of the ultraviolet light source, etc.), the state of the fluorescence detection section (degree of deterioration of the fluorescence detection section, etc.). For example, the calibration mechanism normalizes the fluorescence amount in accordance with the time change of the intensity of the fluorescence measurement light and the amount of light of the fluorescence. The calibration mechanism may be operated periodically or in accordance with a command output from the display device. When calibrating the zero point, for example, the signal showing the fluorescence amount after a predetermined time has passed since the introduction of air from the air inlet was cut off may be used as the zero point. Alternatively, the linear characteristics of the fluorescence sensor and the amount of stray light in the device may be used for zero-point calibration by changing the amount of air introduced into the air inlet in multiple stages.

[0079] In each of the above embodiments and modifications, the sterilization device may have a mechanism (discharge mechanism) for discharging fine particles and the like collected in the microbial collection section. Examples of such discharge mechanisms include a mechanism for vibrating the collection device, a mechanism for blowing air towards the collection device, and a mechanism for cleaning the collection device. Discharging fine particles and the like by the discharge mechanism may be effectively achieved by intermittently generating an electric field between a pair of electrodes by controlling the power supply.

[0080] In the second embodiment described above, the ultraviolet light source irradiates ultraviolet light when the microbial collection unit is not collecting microorganisms, and does not irradiate ultraviolet light when the microbial collection unit is collecting microorganisms, but is not limited to this. For example, the ultraviolet light source may irradiate ultraviolet light intermittently, while the collection of microorganisms by the microbial collection unit is carried out continuously. Alternatively, a shutter or the like may be provided between the ultraviolet light source and the pair of electrodes in the sterilization device. In this case, the irradiation of the microbial collection unit with ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light source may be carried out intermittently by opening and closing the shutter. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 2...Microbial collection unit, 3...Ultraviolet light source, 4,4A...Fluorescence detection unit, 7...Housing, 8...Light source, 11...Air introduction unit, 12...Collection device, 12a...Electrode, 12b...Electrode, 12c...Power supply, 13...Air exhaust unit, 100,100A,100B...Disinfection system, 200,200A,200B...Disinfection device, 300,300A,300B,300C...Processing device, 400,400A...Display device, L...Excitation light, UV...Ultraviolet light.

Claims

1. A sterilization device that disinfects the collected fine particles, A processing device for processing data output from the aforementioned sterilization device, A display device that displays the amount of sterilization calculated by the aforementioned processing device, A sterilization system equipped with, The aforementioned sterilization device is A particulate collection section that includes a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other and collects fine particles, An ultraviolet light source that irradiates the aforementioned particulate matter collection section with ultraviolet light, It has a fluorescence detection unit that detects fluorescence generated from the fine particle collection unit when the ultraviolet light is irradiated, The aforementioned processing apparatus is During irradiation with ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light source, first fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a first timing and second fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a second timing later than the first timing are acquired. Based on the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data, the amount of sterilization performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the first timing to the second timing is calculated. The display device displays the first display data indicating the amount of sterilization, The ultraviolet light source intermittently irradiates the particulate matter collection section with ultraviolet light, The aforementioned ultraviolet light source is At the second timing, the irradiation of ultraviolet light is interrupted. The irradiation of ultraviolet light is restarted from a third timing later than the second timing, to a fourth timing later than the third timing. The aforementioned processing apparatus is The third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the third timing and the fourth fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the fourth timing are acquired. Based on the third fluorescence data and the fourth fluorescence data, the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the third timing to the fourth timing is calculated. The display device displays second display data indicating the second amount of sterilization. Disinfection system.

2. A sterilization device for sterilizing the collected fine particles, A processing device for processing data output from the aforementioned sterilization device, A display device that displays the amount of sterilization calculated by the aforementioned processing device, A sterilization system equipped with, The aforementioned sterilization device is A particulate collection section that includes a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other and collects fine particles, An ultraviolet light source that irradiates the aforementioned particulate matter collection section with ultraviolet light, It has a fluorescence detection unit that detects fluorescence generated from the fine particle collection unit when the ultraviolet light is irradiated, The aforementioned processing apparatus is During irradiation with ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light source, first fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a first timing and second fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at a second timing later than the first timing are acquired. During the irradiation of ultraviolet light, fluorescence data of the fine particles themselves located on the fine particle collection unit is acquired as unwanted fluorescence data. Based on the first fluorescence data, the second fluorescence data, and the unwanted fluorescence data, the amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the first timing to the second timing is calculated. The display device displays first display data indicating the amount of sterilization. Disinfection system.

3. The first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data each correspond to fluorescence intensity, The disinfection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the amount of disinfection corresponds to the difference between the first fluorescence data and the second fluorescence data.

4. The aforementioned processing apparatus is During the irradiation of ultraviolet light, a third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit is acquired at a third timing later than the second timing. Based on the second fluorescence data and the third fluorescence data, the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the second timing to the third timing is calculated. The disinfection system according to claim 2, wherein the display device displays second display data indicating the second amount of disinfection.

5. The sterilization system according to claim 2, wherein the ultraviolet light source intermittently irradiates the particulate matter collection section with ultraviolet light.

6. The aforementioned ultraviolet light source is At the second timing, the irradiation of ultraviolet light is interrupted. The irradiation of ultraviolet light is restarted from a third timing later than the second timing, to a fourth timing later than the third timing. The aforementioned processing apparatus is The third fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the third timing and the fourth fluorescence data output from the fluorescence detection unit at the fourth timing are acquired. Based on the third fluorescence data and the fourth fluorescence data, the second amount of sterilization to be performed on the particulate matter collection unit from the third timing to the fourth timing is calculated. The disinfection system according to claim 5, wherein the display device displays second display data indicating the second amount of disinfection.

7. The sterilization device further includes a light source that irradiates the particulate matter collection section with excitation light different from ultraviolet light, The sterilization system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fluorescence detection unit has an optical filter that blocks light having a wavelength at least less than or equal to the wavelength of the excitation light.

8. The sterilization device further comprises an air inlet located upstream of the pair of electrodes and an air outlet located downstream of the pair of electrodes. The sterilization system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ultraviolet light source irradiates one of the pair of electrodes with ultraviolet light.

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