Cleaning apparatus and cleaning method

Abstract

To provide a washing apparatus that can suppress vibration and noise, while securing usability that is the same as usability of a generally-used washing machine, and can secure detergency better than detergency in a washing machine utilizing washing with mechanical power.SOLUTION: A washing apparatus 1 according to the present invention comprises: a washing tank 2 that stores an object to be washed; a mixing tank 4 in which washing liquid including hydrogen peroxide is mixed with washing liquid including alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal hydrogen carbonate; and a light emitting mechanism 3 that emits light with wavelengths of 350-450 nm to the washing tank 2. In a state where the washing liquid mixed in the mixing tank 4 is supplied to the washing tank 2, the light emitting mechanism emits light into the washing tank 2 to generate hydroxyl radical, so as to wash the object to be washed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing apparatus and washing method for washing objects such as clothing using radical-induced accelerated oxidation. [Background technology]

[0002] The washing of textile products such as clothing (hereinafter referred to as "items to be washed") is generally carried out using top-loading or drum-type washing machines. These washing machines are devices that immerse the items to be washed in a liquid such as water or organic solvent and mechanically remove dirt attached to the items by rotating and agitating the liquid. The source of the dirt removal effect in these washing methods is the mechanical force that transmits movement to the fibers by mechanically moving the liquid, and separates the dirt from the fibers with mechanical force.

[0003] In top-loading washing machines, the laundry is immersed in a relatively large amount of liquid, and the rotation of the liquid in the washing tub is used to clean the dirt through the movement of the laundry and contact between the laundry items. On the other hand, in front-loading washing machines, the laundry is placed in a relatively small amount of liquid, and in addition to the movement of the laundry mediated by the liquid due to the rotation of the drum, the impact of dropping the laundry from above the drum also contributes to removing dirt. Although there are some differences in the movement of the two types of washing machines, they both share the common feature of being able to wash a large amount of laundry at once by utilizing the cleaning effect caused by mechanical force.

[0004] For example, in a top-loading washing machine, a motor rotates the agitator blades located at the bottom of the drum or the drum itself, circulating the liquid inside the drum and transmitting mechanical force to the items being washed. Although motor technology has advanced and motors have become quieter, the noise from the motor itself, the inverter drive circuit, and surrounding moving parts is still significant, and they are not quiet enough to be installed in a room where people are relaxing. Also, since the rotating drum occupies most of the washing machine's volume, vibrations associated with the drum's rotation are unavoidable. As a result, there are challenges such as limitations on where washing machines can be installed and restrictions on washing times to daytime.

[0005] Various improvements have been made to cleaning power. For example, some washing machines have been developed that aim to improve cleaning power by incorporating extremely small bubbles called microbubbles or nanobubbles into the water, using the shock waves generated by the bursting of these bubbles. However, even washing machines that have incorporated these new cleaning technologies are fundamentally still within the framework of cleaning through mechanical force and the removal of dirt by the surfactants in the detergent, and remain unchanged from conventional methods.

[0006] On the other hand, both top-loading and front-loading washing machines have undergone extensive development over many years, resulting in significant advancements in user-friendliness. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine equipped with a water tank housed within the casing and a laundry liquid tank for storing detergent and other laundry liquids supplied to the water tank. Patent Document 1 eliminates the need to dispense detergent each time by automatically supplying the required amount from the laundry liquid tank during washing, thereby greatly reducing the chances of accidentally getting detergent on hands or spilling it around the washing machine. In recent years, washing machines that improve usability by storing liquid detergent within the device have become standard. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-159415 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] While top-loading and front-loading washing machines are very convenient to use, they have the drawback of limited cleaning power because they primarily rely on mechanical force and surfactants for cleaning. For example, mechanical cleaning is effective against small particulate dirt such as mud and sand that are entangled in the fibers. However, against dirt with very small units that chemically bond with clothing fibers, such as sebum and oils used in food, while they show some cleaning power, they often do not provide satisfactory results, such as insufficient color fading or the presence of stains. Furthermore, because the cleaning of laundry is based on mechanical force, some damage to clothing and noise and vibration from the mechanism that generates the mechanical force are unavoidable.

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a washing device and washing method that ensures ease of use similar to that of a general washing machine, while suppressing vibration and noise, and ensuring washing power equivalent to or better than that of a washing machine that uses mechanical force for washing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To achieve the above objective, the present invention provides, as an example, a cleaning apparatus equipped with a cleaning tank for containing an object to be cleaned, comprising: a mixing tank for mixing a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide and a cleaning solution containing an alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate; and a light irradiation mechanism for irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm, wherein the cleaning solution mixed in the mixing tank is supplied to the cleaning tank, and light is irradiated into the cleaning tank from the light irradiation mechanism to generate hydroxyl radicals and clean the object to be cleaned. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing device and washing method that ensure the same ease of use as a general washing machine, while suppressing vibration and noise, and ensuring washing power equivalent to or better than that of a washing machine that uses mechanical force for washing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1A]It is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a cleaning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 1B] It is a diagram showing a modified example of the cleaning apparatus 1 in FIG. 1A in which the number of liquid injection ports is changed to one. [Figure 1C] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration provided with a mechanism for storing two types of cleaning liquids in the cleaning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram of the cleaning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a flowchart showing a cleaning process of the cleaning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a cleaning apparatus 1 provided with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide solution according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 5A] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a cleaning apparatus 1 provided with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide solution according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 5B] It is a diagram showing a modified example obtained by adding a liquid injection port 23 to the cleaning apparatus 1 in FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a cleaning apparatus provided with a liquid injection port and a powder injection port according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. [Figure 6B] It is a diagram showing a modified example of the cleaning apparatus 1 in FIG. 6A in which the number of liquid injection ports is changed to two. [Figure 7A] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a cleaning apparatus provided with a mechanism for cleaning an outer wall of a cleaning tank according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 7B] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a cleaning apparatus provided with a mechanism for cleaning a drain pipe according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In principle, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same elements in all the drawings. Descriptions of portions having the same functions are omitted. The configuration described below is merely an example, and it is not intended that the embodiments of the present invention are limited to the following specific embodiments.

[0014] The following embodiments describe a cleaning apparatus and cleaning method for cleaning objects to be cleaned that have localized soiling. [Examples]

[0015] First, the cleaning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described using Figures 1A to 3.

[0016] <Outline configuration of the cleaning device 1> Figure 1A is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a washing device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The washing device 1 includes a washing tank 2 for containing and washing the object to be washed (clothing), a light irradiation mechanism 3 for irradiating light onto the washing tank 2, a first liquid inlet 21 for introducing washing liquid into the device, and a second liquid inlet 22 for introducing washing liquid into the device. In this embodiment, as will be described later, a washing liquid containing hydrogen peroxide and a washing liquid containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate are mixed and used as the washing liquid for washing the object to be washed.

[0017] Water supply piping 10 for supplying water to the device from the outside is connected to the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22, respectively, via flow control valves 13a and 13b. One end of cleaning liquid introduction piping 14 is connected to the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22, and the other end of cleaning liquid introduction piping 14 is connected to the mixing tank 4. The first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 are each connected to the mixing tank 4 via cleaning liquid introduction piping 14.

[0018] A cleaning liquid supply pipe 15 is connected from the mixing tank 4 to the cleaning tank 2 via a flow rate adjustment valve 13c, allowing water supplied from the outside and cleaning liquid introduced from the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 to be introduced into the cleaning tank 2. A drain pipe 16 is installed in the cleaning tank 2 via a flow rate adjustment valve 13d to allow the liquid inside the cleaning tank 2 to be discharged outside the device.

[0019] A power supply line 11 is connected from outside the cleaning device 1 to supply power to the device. In this embodiment, power is supplied to each part of the device via the control unit 5. The control unit 5 is connected to the power-driven parts of the device, supplying power and controlling the operation of each part. The control unit 5 also controls the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 via the input / output unit 6.

[0020] The first liquid inlet 21 is used by the user to add the first cleaning solution when using the cleaning device. Similarly, the second liquid inlet 22 is used to add the second cleaning solution. Once these cleaning solutions are added, they flow into the mixing tank 4. By opening the flow control valves 13a and 13b as appropriate, all of the added cleaning solution flows into the mixing tank 4.

[0021] In the mixing tank 4, the cleaning solutions introduced from the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 mix to form a cleaning solution (mixed cleaning solution) used for cleaning. Mixing of the cleaning solutions in the mixing tank can be done by the natural mixing phenomenon of simply placing the two cleaning chemicals in the same container, but in some cases it is better to add a mechanism to forcibly mix them as appropriate depending on the cleaning chemicals used. For example, when using powder as the cleaning chemical, as in the embodiment described later, it is better to have a forced mixing mechanism. Possible forced mixing mechanisms include stirring by a rotating body, vibration, and heating. After mixing as appropriate according to the cleaning chemicals used, the flow rate adjustment valve 13c is opened and the cleaning solution is poured into the cleaning tank 2.

[0022] The cleaning tank 2 is used to store and clean the object to be cleaned. Cleaning is performed by irradiating the object with light from the light irradiation mechanism 3 while it is immersed in the cleaning solution. The size of the cleaning tank 2 should be adjusted to match the size of the object to be cleaned. If the object to be cleaned is small, such as a stain on clothing, it is possible to miniaturize the device by not supplying water to the cleaning tank 2 from the water supply pipe 10, instead installing a small water tank inside the device, and using a rechargeable battery inside the device for power supply.

[0023] The light irradiation mechanism 3 irradiates the cleaning tank 2 with a predetermined light. The light preferably has a wavelength in the range of 350-450 nm. Irradiating a predetermined cleaning solution with light in this wavelength range generates hydroxyl radicals with high oxidizing power, which oxidize and decompose the dirt on the object to be cleaned, thereby performing the cleaning. Higher light irradiation intensity shortens the cleaning time, but increases heat generation from the light source, sometimes requiring forced cooling. Furthermore, the cost of the light source also increases, leading to higher equipment costs. On the other hand, lower light irradiation intensity reduces heat generation, thus reducing the effort required for cooling. Also, the cost of the light source is lower, allowing for lower equipment costs. However, the cleaning time becomes longer. In this embodiment, the wavelength is 365 nm, and the light irradiation intensity on the object to be cleaned is 50-100 mW / cm². 2 The settings were configured as follows. A UV-LED (Ultra Violet - Light Emitting Diode) was used as the light source.

[0024] Next, the connection relationships between the control unit 5 and each controlled part will be explained. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the cleaning device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 5 is electrically connected to the parts that require control and power supply, and controls the power supply to each part and turns their operation ON / OFF. In the figure, solid lines are power supply lines and signal lines, and dotted lines indicate the correspondence between the parts that the flow rate adjustment valves 13a to 13d control the flow rate of (first liquid inlet 21, second liquid inlet 22, mixing tank 4, and washing tank 2).

[0026] The control unit 5 controls the flow rate adjustment valves 13a to 13d, the light irradiation mechanism 3, and the cleaning tank 2 via the input / output unit 6, and communicates with the user regarding the start and stop of the cleaning device 1, as well as the settings and operation specifications necessary for cleaning. Settings necessary for cleaning include the strength of the cleaning force and the cleaning time, but this is not limited to these, as it depends on the design of the device's user interface. Operation specifications mainly include starting, pausing, and stopping the cleaning process.

[0027] Furthermore, the control unit 5 also acts as a safety mechanism, monitoring the state of the cleaning tank 2 and stopping the light irradiation mechanism 3 as needed. When placing an object to be cleaned into the cleaning tank 2, it is necessary to open the lid of the cleaning tank 2. Since light is directly irradiated into the cleaning tank 2 from the light irradiation mechanism 3, the light irradiation mechanism 3 will be exposed when the lid of the cleaning tank 2 is open. Therefore, if the cleaning operation is started with the light irradiation mechanism 3 exposed, or if the lid of the cleaning tank 2 is opened while the cleaning operation is in progress, there is a risk that light from the light irradiation mechanism 3 will be directly irradiated onto the user. To avoid this, the control unit 5 monitors whether the lid of the cleaning tank 2 is open or not, and if the lid is open, it controls the system so that light irradiation from the light irradiation mechanism 3 is not performed.

[0028] The cleaning device 1 is started by pressing the start switch located on the input / output unit 6. The control unit 5 displays the necessary setting items on the input / output unit 6 and prompts the user to make the settings. The user makes the necessary settings, places the object to be cleaned into the cleaning tank 2, and supplies cleaning liquid to the liquid inlet. Once the necessary items have been set, the control unit 5 displays a start cleaning button and waits until the user signals to start. The user closes the lid of the cleaning tank 2 and presses the start cleaning button on the input / output unit 6 to begin cleaning.

[0029] Here, a touch panel is assumed as the input / output unit 6, but instructions for display progression can also be used, such as mechanical buttons or indicator lights.

[0030] <Cleaning Procedure> The cleaning procedure according to this embodiment will be described below. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the cleaning process of the cleaning apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In this embodiment, as an example of a stain attached to a part of clothing that is to be cleaned, the procedure for cleaning a stain caused by a single drop of chili oil on a cotton sweatshirt fabric is shown.

[0031] First, start the cleaning device 1 (Step S301: Step to start the cleaning device).

[0032] Next, the items to be cleaned are placed into the cleaning tank 2 (Step S302: Step of placing items to be cleaned into the cleaning tank). If the cleaning device 1 is for small stains such as blemishes, the clothes should be positioned so that the stains are directly below the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 3. This is because stains are removed faster with stronger light irradiation intensity.

[0033] Next, the cleaning conditions are set according to the instructions of the input / output unit 6 (Step S303: Step to set cleaning conditions). In this embodiment, the cleaning conditions are set to a light irradiation intensity of 100 mW / cm². 2 The washing time was set to 50 minutes, taking into consideration that the items being washed were made of thick sweatshirt fabric.

[0034] Next, the first and second cleaning solutions, which had been prepared in advance, were added to the first and second liquid inlets, respectively (Step S304: Step of adding cleaning solutions from the inlets). In this example, 25 mL of 0.32 w / v% hydrogen peroxide solution was used for the first cleaning solution, and 25 mL of a sodium carbonate aqueous solution adjusted to 0.67 w / v% was used for the second cleaning solution. The first and second cleaning solutions were allowed to mix naturally in the mixing tank (Step S305: Step of mixing cleaning solutions).

[0035] The control unit 5 displays a button to start cleaning and waits once the cleaning conditions have been entered. After setting the object to be cleaned in the cleaning tank 2 and pouring the first cleaning solution and the second cleaning solution into the first liquid inlet and the second liquid inlet, respectively, the user touches the start cleaning button to start cleaning (Step S306: Step to start cleaning).

[0036] The control unit 5 opens the flow rate adjustment valve 13c and puts the cleaning solution mixed in the mixing tank 4 into the cleaning tank 2, immersing the object to be cleaned in the cleaning solution (Step S307: Step of putting the mixed cleaning solution into the cleaning tank).

[0037] Subsequently, the control unit 5 supplies power to the light irradiation mechanism 3 and starts irradiating the objects to be cleaned in the cleaning tank 2 with light (Step S308: Step of irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350-450 nm). Set light irradiation intensity: 100 mW / cm 2The necessary power conditions are set in advance in the storage unit within the control unit 5. Hydroxyl radicals are generated inside the cleaning tank 2 to clean the object to be cleaned. The control unit 5 maintains this state for the set time, and terminates the light irradiation after the set time elapses (step S309: step of terminating light irradiation).

[0038] The control unit 5 opens the flow rate adjustment valves 13a to 13d, discharges the cleaning liquid inside the cleaning tank 2, introduces clean water into the cleaning tank 2, and washes away the cleaning liquid and the like adhering to the object to be cleaned (step S310: step of discharging the cleaning liquid). Then, the control unit 5 causes the input / output unit 6 to display that cleaning is completed, and ends the cleaning process. <Evaluation of Cleaning Power> The cleaning power was evaluated by comparing colors before and after cleaning. The color is expressed in L * a * b * coordinate system for quantification, and the cleaning power is quantified based on how much the original color is restored by cleaning according to the distance in the L * a * b * color space. Specifically, the distance ΔE between two points (L1, a1, b1) and (L2, a2, b2) in the color space is defined by formula (1).

[0039] ΔE=((L1-L2) 2 +(a1-a2) 2 +(b1-b2) 2 ) (1 / 2) ···(1) Further, based on the color coordinate of a clean portion free of dirt, the distance between the color coordinate of the dirt-adhered portion before cleaning is defined as ΔE1, and the distance between the color coordinate of the portion where dirt was adhered after cleaning is defined as ΔE2, and the cleaning rate η is defined by formula (2).

[0040] η=1-ΔE2 / ΔE1···(2) The better the dirt is removed, the closer ΔE2 is to 0, so the closer η is to 1, the better the dirt is removed.

[0041] In the cleaning of the chili oil stain on the sweatshirt fabric described above, the cleaning rate η was 0.99. On the other hand, when the same chili oil stain was applied to a thinner cotton fabric, which is easier to clean than sweatshirt fabric, the cleaning rate using a typical drum washing machine with mechanical force and liquid detergent was 0.45. Since the washing machine's standard wash cycle takes about 35 minutes including rinsing, it cannot be said to be a completely fair comparison, but it can be seen that the cleaning device and cleaning method of this embodiment have higher cleaning power than a washing machine.

[0042] <The origin of cleaning power> The origin of the cleaning power in the above cleaning process lies in hydroxyl radicals generated by UV light irradiation of hydroxyl ions, which originate from hydrogen peroxide molecules contained in the cleaning solution, or from the dissociation of water induced by hydrogen peroxide, carbonate ions, sodium ions, etc. The strong oxidizing power of hydroxyl radicals oxidizes the dirt components, and the dirt is broken down and removed through what is known as accelerated oxidation (AOP: Advanced Oxidation Process).

[0043] <About the cleaning solution> Thus, any aqueous solution (cleaning solution) containing hydrogen peroxide can be expected to have a cleaning effect due to the AOP effect. For this reason, any chemical containing hydrogen peroxide molecules can basically be used as a cleaning solution. For example, hydrogen peroxide solution alone can be used as a cleaning solution. In this case, a concentration of approximately 3 w / v% is sufficient to obtain adequate cleaning power without changing other cleaning conditions.

[0044] In the above cleaning example, 25 mL of 0.32 w / v% hydrogen peroxide solution and 25 mL of 0.67 w / v% sodium carbonate aqueous solution were prepared and mixed as the cleaning solution. Mixing these two cleaning solutions yields a solution equivalent to that obtained by dissolving 1 g of sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide in 200 mL of water. Instead of mixing the two solutions, it is also possible to clean using only a liquid containing sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide adjusted to approximately this concentration. The amount can be adjusted according to the size of the object to be cleaned or the size of the area to be cleaned without changing the concentration. In this case, only one liquid inlet is needed, so the apparatus configuration can be simplified as shown in Figure 1B, and costs can be reduced.

[0045] Furthermore, even with the configuration shown in Figure 1A, cleaning is possible by introducing an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide into one of the liquid inlets.

[0046] Figure 1B shows a modified version of the cleaning device 1 in Figure 1A, with a single liquid inlet. As shown in the modified version in Figure 1B, even with a single liquid inlet configuration, it is possible to handle two types of cleaning solutions by sequentially introducing two different cleaning solutions from the single liquid inlet 23.

[0047] As an example of preparing a cleaning solution by mixing two liquids, hydrogen peroxide solution and sodium carbonate solution were used, but sodium bicarbonate solution can also be used instead of sodium carbonate. The concentration of the sodium bicarbonate solution should be determined so that the hydrogen peroxide concentration in the solution is equivalent to that of sodium carbonate. Sodium bicarbonate has the advantage of being readily available as baking soda. On the other hand, sodium carbonate has the advantage of being more easily soluble in water than sodium bicarbonate. Furthermore, alkali metal carbonates such as calcium carbonate and potassium carbonate may be used instead of sodium carbonate. In addition, alkali metal bicarbonates such as calcium bicarbonate solution and potassium bicarbonate solution may be used instead of sodium bicarbonate solution.

[0048] When using an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide as a cleaning solution, it is necessary to use it for cleaning immediately after preparing the solution from the powder. This is because the hydrogen peroxide concentration decreases in the aqueous solution as the hydrogen peroxide decomposes into water and oxygen gas. While it is generally fine to use the solution within 1-2 hours after preparation, it is best to avoid using it after it has been left standing for more than half a day.

[0049] <Improved usability> When using sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide for cleaning with the AOP effect, it cannot be stored as an aqueous solution for long periods, so it is necessary to prepare an aqueous solution from the powder each time cleaning is performed. On the other hand, in the cleaning example described above, the chemicals required for cleaning can be supplied to the apparatus as two types of liquids, and these liquids are stable over long periods as long as they are not mixed, thus eliminating the need to handle powder each time cleaning is performed.

[0050] As long as the two cleaning solutions are not mixed, they can be stored for a long period of time, and storing them inside the device can further improve usability.

[0051] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a cleaning device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, which includes a mechanism for storing two types of cleaning liquids. Between the first liquid inlet 21 and the second liquid inlet 22 and the mixing tank 4, there are tanks 17a and 17b, respectively, for storing the cleaning liquids. If the user puts the amount of cleaning liquid determined by the capacity of the tanks into the respective liquid inlets (first liquid inlet 21, second liquid inlet 22) of tanks 17a and 17b, there is no need to replenish the cleaning liquid each time cleaning is performed. It is desirable that tanks 17a and 17b are fitted with lids to prevent evaporation of the cleaning liquid. An operating mode for replenishing the cleaning liquid can be provided, and when the cleaning liquid operating mode is selected in the input / output unit 6, the tank lids will open, and after the liquid has been added, the lids will close when the end of the cleaning operation mode is input from the input / output unit.

[0052] This method of use requires the use of a two-part cleaning solution for long-term storage of the cleaning solution.

[0053] <Deterioration due to cleaning> This cleaning method uses hydroxyl radicals, which have high oxidizing power, as the source of cleaning power, raising concerns about deterioration of the object being cleaned. Therefore, we investigated the damage to fabric fibers using sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide. The cleaning solution was an aqueous solution prepared from sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 1 g / 200 mL. We evaluated how many washes were needed to damage the fabric of the object being cleaned, using a light source wavelength of 365 nm, intensity of 100 mW / cm2, and irradiation time of 10 minutes. Commercially available dress shirts made of 100% cotton and 100% polyester were used as the fabrics to be evaluated. Since the cleaning method of the present invention is essentially a static cleaning method, it is difficult to determine whether deterioration has occurred in the fabric from the washing alone. Therefore, we checked for damage by rubbing with a brush after every 10 minutes of washing. As a result, no damage was observed even after more than 500 washes for both cotton and polyester, confirming that the damage to the fibers was extremely low.

[0054] According to this embodiment, it is possible to ensure the same ease of use as a general washing machine, while suppressing vibration and noise, and ensuring cleaning power equivalent to or better than that of a washing machine that uses mechanical force for cleaning. [Examples]

[0055] Example 2 will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning apparatus 1 equipped with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide water according to Example 2 of the present invention. Components common to Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0056] This example describes a method for reducing the cleaning solution to one liquid while maintaining the advantages of the cleaning method described in Example 1. In Example 1, hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate, or sodium bicarbonate, were used as the liquid cleaning solution. By generating hydrogen peroxide within the cleaning device, the amount of cleaning solution supplied from an external source can be reduced.

[0057] Hydrogen peroxide solution is known to be able to be produced using only water and electricity by an electrochemical method, as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 7126654 and No. 7268282. In Figure 4, the H2O2 production mechanism 30 is an H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) production module composed of an electrochemical reaction cell. Water can be supplied to this H2O2 production mechanism 30 via a flow rate adjustment valve 13g, and a power supply line is connected from the control unit 5 to apply a DC voltage between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode of the electrochemical reaction cell. Water is supplied to the anode electrode side cell, and air is introduced to the cathode electrode side cell. By maintaining the potential of the anode electrode relative to the cathode electrode within the range of 0.5 to 2V, hydrogen peroxide solution with a concentration of several percent is produced on the cathode side. The concentration produced is determined by the cell configuration, such as the type and amount of catalyst used in the anode and cathode, and the production conditions, such as the potential. The generated hydrogen peroxide solution is stored in the hydrogen peroxide solution tank 17c. The H2O2 generation mechanism 30 is connected to the mixing tank 4 via the hydrogen peroxide solution tank 17c. When the electrochemical reaction cell is built into the cleaning device 1, the area of ​​the anode and cathode electrodes is at most several tens to 100 cm². 2 Because of the nature of the process, the resulting concentration and volume are only a few percent and a few mL / h. Therefore, it is desirable to continue production even during the waiting period when washing operations are not being performed, and to accumulate the product in the tank.

[0058] During cleaning, a sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution is added through the liquid inlet, and hydrogen peroxide is supplied from the hydrogen peroxide tank 17c and mixed in the mixing tank 4. The hydrogen peroxide concentration is determined by the cell used and the generation conditions, so water is added to adjust it to the required concentration according to the generated concentration. The rest of the cleaning method is the same as in Example 1.

[0059] According to this embodiment, since hydrogen peroxide is generated within the cleaning device, the amount of cleaning solution supplied from an external source can be reduced, thereby improving ease of use. [Examples]

[0060] Example 3 will be described using Figures 5A and 5B. Figure 5A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning apparatus 1 equipped with a mechanism for generating hydrogen peroxide water according to Example 3 of the present invention. Figure 5B is a modified example showing the cleaning apparatus 1 of Figure 5A with the addition of a liquid inlet 23. Components common to Examples 1 and 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. In this example, a powdered cleaning chemical is used as the cleaning chemical introduced through the inlet.

[0061] As powdered cleaning chemicals, alkali metal carbonates such as sodium carbonate and alkali metal bicarbonates such as sodium bicarbonate are used. The required amount of these chemicals is weighed and added through the powder inlet 24. Setting several required amounts according to the size of the cleaning tank 2 and making it possible to weigh the amount of chemicals with the number of spoons corresponding to the smallest amount will save the effort of weighing. Water is introduced into the mixing tank via the flow rate adjustment valve 13i so that when mixed with the hydrogen peroxide stored in the hydrogen peroxide tank 17c, the concentration becomes equivalent to a predetermined concentration of sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution, and the powdered cleaning chemicals are dissolved in the water. At that time, the powdered cleaning chemicals are thoroughly dissolved so that no residue remains in the mixing tank. The subsequent cleaning process is the same as the method described in Example 1.

[0062] The advantage of this configuration is that powdered cleaning chemicals can be used, allowing cleaning to be performed using only sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide without using the H2O2 generation mechanism 30. Commercially available oxygen-based bleaches can be used as sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide, making the cleaning chemicals readily available.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in the modified example in Figure 5B, it is also possible to have both a liquid inlet 23 and a powder inlet 24. In this case, multiple combinations of cleaning chemicals become possible, such as cleaning with two types of liquid cleaning solutions or cleaning with powder only, which has the advantage of greater flexibility in selecting cleaning chemicals. [Examples]

[0064] Example 4 will be described using Figures 6A and 6B. Figure 6A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device equipped with a liquid inlet and a powder inlet according to Example 4 of the present invention. Figure 6B is a modified example of the cleaning device 1 in Figure 6A, with two liquid inlets. Components common to Examples 1 to 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. In this example, there is no H2O2 generation mechanism 30, and cleaning is performed by combining liquid cleaning chemicals and powder cleaning chemicals.

[0065] Hydrogen peroxide solution is used as the liquid cleaning solution, and sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate is used as the powder cleaning agent. 3% hydrogen peroxide can be easily obtained using commercially available hydrogen peroxide solution. After adding the 3% hydrogen peroxide to tank 17a through the liquid inlet 23, water is added to dilute it to the desired concentration. Meanwhile, the powder cleaning agent is weighed out as needed for each cleaning and added through the powder inlet 24. The subsequent cleaning method is as described in Example 3.

[0066] In this embodiment, a powder inlet 24 is provided, so, as in Embodiment 3, cleaning can be performed using only the powder cleaning solution. Furthermore, since this embodiment also includes a liquid inlet 23, it is possible to prepare sodium carbonate hydrogen peroxide outside the apparatus and perform cleaning using only the liquid cleaning solution.

[0067] The advantages of this configuration include the fact that it is inexpensive because it does not have a hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism, and that there are multiple options for the cleaning solution.

[0068] Figure 6B shows a modified version of the cleaning device 1 in Figure 6A, with two liquid inlets. In the configuration of Figure 6B, one more liquid cleaning solution inlet is added compared to the configuration of Figure 6A, providing a first liquid inlet 21 and a second liquid inlet 22. This configuration allows for an increased selection of cleaning solutions, including two types of liquid cleaning solutions. For example, a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide is introduced through the first liquid inlet 21, and a cleaning solution containing sodium carbonate (alkali metal carbonate) or an aqueous sodium bicarbonate solution (alkali metal bicarbonate) is introduced through the second liquid inlet 22. When using powder cleaning agents, the second liquid inlet 22 is not used, and the powder cleaning agent such as sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate is introduced through the powder inlet 24. In this embodiment, cleaning can be performed according to the type of cleaning agent used, such as liquid or powder. [Examples]

[0069] Example 5 will be described using Figures 7A and 7B. This example describes a case where the cleaning solution is also used to clean the outer wall of the cleaning tank and the drain pipe. Figure 7A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device equipped with a mechanism for cleaning the outer wall of a cleaning tank according to Example 5 of the present invention. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a cleaning device equipped with a mechanism for cleaning the drain pipe according to Example 4 of the present invention. Components common to Examples 1 to 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed explanations are omitted. Furthermore, the cleaning method can be the same as the method described in Example 1, and its explanation is omitted; only the cleaning of the outer wall of the cleaning tank and the cleaning of the drain pipe will be described.

[0070] With the cleaning solution stored in the mixing tank 4 in Figure 7A, the cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 is activated. After activation, the flow rate adjustment valve 13e is opened, and the cleaning solution is supplied to the cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 via the cleaning solution supply pipe 18. This mechanism can be any method that cleans the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 using the cleaning solution supplied from the mixing tank 4. For example, one method is to spray the supplied cleaning solution onto the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 while slowly rotating the cleaning tank 2, allowing the cleaning solution to adhere to the entire outer wall of the cleaning tank 2. Another method is to simultaneously irradiate with light to generate radicals or reactive oxygen species for cleaning. Yet another method is to spray the cleaning solution while applying a brush to the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 and rotating the cleaning tank 2. The flow rate adjustment valve 13f may not be necessary depending on the method of cleaning the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2. For example, if the sprayed liquid is not reused and is simply discharged as wastewater, then it is unnecessary. However, if the cleaning method involves continuously re-spraying the sprayed liquid, then a flow rate adjustment valve 13f can be installed and kept closed while the outer wall of the cleaning tank 2 is being cleaned. After the cleaning is complete, the flow rate adjustment valve 13f can be opened to discharge the liquid through the drain pipes 19 and 16.

[0071] The configuration shown in Figure 7B is such that when the cleaning solution is stored in the mixing tank 4, the flow rate adjustment valve 13c is closed, and when the flow rate adjustment valve 13e is opened, the cleaning solution flows through the cleaning solution supply pipe 20, bypassing the cleaning tank 2 and flowing directly into the drain pipe 16. Repeated use of the cleaning solution used to wash clothes, etc., in the cleaning tank 2 to drain the drain pipe 16 can cause dirt to adhere to the inner wall of the drain pipe 16, leading to unpleasant odors. For this reason, it is desirable to rinse the drain pipe 16 with water after washing to prevent dirt from adhering, but dirt cannot always be completely removed with water alone. Therefore, by flowing the cleaning solution directly from the mixing tank 4 into the drain pipe 16, the inner wall of the drain pipe 16 is thoroughly cleaned. Alternatively, the inner wall of the drain pipe 16 can be cleaned by flowing the cleaning solution through the cleaning tank 2 into the drain pipe 16. However, in this case, it is desirable to flush water through the cleaning tank 2 after cleaning the drain pipe 16 to prevent any cleaning solution from adhering to or remaining inside the cleaning tank 2.

[0072] The cleaning solution used to clean the outer wall of the washing tank 2 and the inner wall of the drain pipe 16 may be any cleaning solution used for washing clothes, etc., as disclosed herein. The washing tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 can be started, for example, by preparing an outer wall cleaning mode in the control unit 5 and having the user select washing the washing tank outer wall using the input / output unit 6, or by automatically starting the washing tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 after a certain number of clothes washes. The inner wall of the drain pipe 16 can be cleaned in a similar manner, but preferably it should be done automatically each time after washing.

[0073] In this embodiment, Figure 1A shows a configuration equipped with a cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism 25 and a drain pipe cleaning mechanism. However, the embodiment is not limited to this configuration, and similar cleaning tank outer wall mechanisms and drain pipe cleaning mechanisms may be used in other configurations, such as those shown in Figures 1B, 1C, 4 to 6B. Furthermore, the cleaning tank outer wall mechanism 25 and the drain pipe cleaning mechanism may be installed together. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] 1...Cleaning device, 2...Cleaning tank, 3...Light irradiation mechanism, 4...Mixing tank, 5...Control unit, 6...Input / output unit, 10...Water supply piping, 11...External power supply line, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e, 13f, 13g, 13i...Flow rate adjustment valve, 14...Cleaning liquid introduction piping, 15...Cleaning liquid supply pipe, 16...Drainage pipe, 17a, 17b...Tank, 17c...Hydrogen peroxide tank, 18...Cleaning liquid supply piping, 19...Drainage pipe, 20...Cleaning liquid supply piping, 21...First liquid inlet, 22...Second liquid inlet, 23...Liquid inlet, 24...Powder inlet, 25...Cleaning tank outer wall cleaning mechanism, 30...H2O2 generation mechanism

Claims

1. A cleaning apparatus equipped with a cleaning tank for containing objects to be cleaned, A mixing tank for mixing a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide with a cleaning solution containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate, The cleaning tank is equipped with a light irradiation mechanism that irradiates it with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm, A cleaning apparatus characterized by supplying the cleaning solution mixed in the mixing tank to the cleaning tank, and then irradiating the inside of the cleaning tank with light from the light irradiation mechanism to generate hydroxyl radicals and clean the object to be cleaned.

2. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, A cleaning apparatus characterized by comprising: a first liquid inlet connected to the mixing tank and into which a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide is introduced; and a second liquid inlet connected to the mixing tank and into which a cleaning solution containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate is introduced.

3. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 2, A cleaning apparatus characterized in that a tank for storing cleaning liquid introduced from the first liquid inlet and a tank for storing cleaning liquid introduced from the second liquid inlet are provided between the first liquid inlet and the mixing tank, and between the second liquid inlet and the mixing tank, respectively.

4. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, A cleaning apparatus characterized by generating a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide from supplied water and electricity, and comprising a hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism connected to the mixing tank.

5. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 4, A cleaning solution containing the alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate is introduced, and the tank is equipped with a liquid inlet connected to the mixing tank. A cleaning apparatus characterized in that, between the hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism and the mixing tank, and between the liquid inlet and the mixing tank, there are a tank for storing the cleaning solution generated by the hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism and a tank for storing the cleaning solution introduced from the liquid inlet.

6. A cleaning apparatus equipped with a cleaning tank for containing objects to be cleaned, A mixing tank for mixing a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide with a cleaning chemical powder containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate, The cleaning tank is equipped with a light irradiation mechanism that irradiates it with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm, A cleaning apparatus characterized by supplying the cleaning solution mixed in the mixing tank to the cleaning tank, and then irradiating the inside of the cleaning tank with light from the light irradiation mechanism to generate hydroxyl radicals and clean the object to be cleaned.

7. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, A cleaning apparatus characterized by comprising a liquid inlet connected to the mixing tank for introducing the cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide, and a powder inlet connected to the mixing tank for introducing the cleaning chemical powder containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate.

8. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, A cleaning apparatus characterized by generating a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide from supplied water and electricity, and comprising a hydrogen peroxide generation mechanism connected to the mixing tank.

9. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 7, The aforementioned liquid inlet is, A cleaning apparatus characterized by comprising a first liquid inlet connected to the mixing tank and into which a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide is introduced, and a second liquid inlet connected to the mixing tank and into which a cleaning solution containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate is introduced.

10. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, A cleaning apparatus characterized by comprising either a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the outer wall of a cleaning tank connected to the mixing tank, or piping connecting a drain pipe for discharging liquid from the cleaning tank to the mixing tank, or both.

11. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, A cleaning apparatus characterized by comprising either a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the outer wall of a cleaning tank connected to the mixing tank, or piping connecting a drain pipe for discharging liquid from the cleaning tank to the mixing tank, or both.

12. A cleaning method for cleaning objects to be cleaned, which are placed in a cleaning tank. A step of mixing a cleaning solution containing hydrogen peroxide with a cleaning solution containing alkali metal carbonate or alkali metal bicarbonate, The steps include: pouring the mixed cleaning solution into the cleaning tank, The process includes a step of irradiating the cleaning tank with light having a wavelength of 350 to 450 nm, A cleaning method characterized by cleaning the object to be cleaned with hydroxyl radicals generated in the cleaning tank.

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