Air purification device

Abstract

To provide a space purification device that can reduce humidification of the space outside the space purification device. [Solution] The air purification device 1 includes a drug holding unit 20 that holds a solid or gel-like drug 21 containing a water-soluble oxidizing agent. Moisture contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding unit 20 from the external space R reacts with the drug 21 to generate a purification component P in the drug holding unit 20, and the purified air A2 containing the purification component P is released into the external space R, thereby purifying the external space R.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a space purification device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air purification device that uses hypochlorous acid produced by electrolyzing an aqueous sodium chloride solution to remove bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, and other substances contained in the air. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-174032 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] Conventional air purification devices can purify the air, but they have the drawback of humidifying the space outside the device being purified. Therefore, there is a need for air purification devices that can purify the air without humidification.

[0005] This invention was made in view of the above problems, and provides a space purification device that can reduce humidification of the space outside the space purification device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The air purification device according to the present invention includes a drug holding section that holds a solid or gel-like drug containing a water-soluble oxidizing agent. Moisture contained in the introduced air, which is introduced into the drug holding section from the space outside the drug holding section, reacts with the drug, generating a purifying component in the drug holding section. The purified air containing the purifying component is then released into the outside space, thereby purifying the outside space. The amount of purifying components generated is adjusted based on the amount of moisture in the introduced air, which is the amount of moisture introduced into the chemical holding unit, so that the amount of purifying components generated falls within a predetermined range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a space purification device capable of reducing humidification of the external space of the space purification device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front cross-sectional view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front cross-sectional view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a control unit included in the space purification device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit included in the space purification device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front cross-sectional view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit included in the space purification device according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the introduced water amount and the air blowing amount by the air blowing unit in Embodiment 3. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front cross-sectional view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit included in the space purification device according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a front cross-sectional view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit included in the space purification device according to Embodiment 5. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the xyz coordinates shown in the diagrams are for convenience in explaining the positional relationships of the components. Unless otherwise specified, the positive z-axis direction is vertically upward. Also, the xy-plane is the horizontal plane and is consistent across all drawings.

[0010] <Embodiment 1> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the space purification device 1 according to Embodiment 1. The space purification device 1 is a device that is placed in an external space R and purifies the space of the external space R. The external space R is, for example, a bedroom, living room, bathroom, toilet, unit bath, or sanitary room. The sanitary room is a space that includes toilets, bathrooms, washrooms, etc. The space purification device 1 may be placed near air conditioning equipment capable of generating airflow, such as air conditioners, ventilation fans, electric fans, or circulators, which are located in these external spaces R.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the air purification device 1 according to this embodiment includes a housing 10. The housing 10 is hollow, for example, box-shaped, and includes a first opening 10a and a second opening 10b.

[0012] The first opening 10a is an opening for introducing air from the external space R into the housing 10. The first opening 10a is, for example, located on the upper surface of the housing 10 on the negative x-axis side (the xy-plane on the positive z-axis side) and is a rectangular opening that opens along the y-axis direction. The shape of the first opening 10a may be circular or elliptical, etc., as long as it can take air from the external space R into the housing 10.

[0013] The second opening 10b is an opening for releasing the purifying component P from the housing 10 into the external space R. The second opening 10b is located on the upper surface of the housing 10 on the positive x-axis side (the xy-plane on the positive z-axis side) and is a rectangular opening that opens along the y-axis direction. The shape of the second opening 10b may be circular or elliptical, etc., as long as it can release air from the housing 10 into the external space R.

[0014] It is preferable that the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b are positioned at spaced-apart positions on the upper surface of the housing 10. For example, in this embodiment, the first opening 10a is positioned on the negative x-axis side of the upper surface of the housing 10, and the second opening 10b is positioned on the positive x-axis side of the upper surface of the housing 10. Here, "negative x-axis side of the upper surface of the housing 10" means the negative side from the center of the edge of the housing 10 along the x-axis, and "positive x-axis side of the upper surface of the housing 10" means the positive side from the center of the edge of the housing 10 along the x-axis. In other words, the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b are positioned spaced apart from each other along the x-axis. By arranging the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b as described above, short circuits that could occur between the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b become less likely, and the purifying components P released into the external space R can easily diffuse into the room. "A short circuit that may occur between the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b" more specifically refers to the phenomenon in which purified air A2 released from the second opening 10b is drawn into the first opening 10a as introduced air A1.

[0015] Figure 2 is a front cross-sectional view showing the space purification device 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 2, the housing 10 has an internal space 10c. A drug holding unit 20 is arranged in the internal space 10c. It is being done.

[0016] The drug holding section 20 is a hollow, for example, box-shaped container, and is equipped with a drug 21, an inlet 22, and an outlet 23.

[0017] The agent 21 is housed inside the agent holding section 20. The agent 21 is a solid or gel-like agent containing a water-soluble oxidizing agent. When the agent 21 is solid, its form may be, for example, a tablet, granules, or powder. The agent 21 reacts with the moisture contained in the air of the external space R to generate the purification component P. The water-soluble oxidizing agent contained in the agent 21 is, for example, a chlorine-based oxidizing agent. The purification component P generated from the agent 21 is, for example, gaseous hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas).

[0018] Specific examples of chlorine-based oxidizing agents contained in drug 21 include trichloroisocyanuric acid, dichloroisocyanuric acid, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, potassium dichloroisocyanurate, sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, bleaching powder, or individual compounds containing chlorine-based compounds such as 1,3-dichloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, or mixtures containing two or more of these individual compounds.

[0019] Here, we will explain the generation principle of gaseous hypochlorous acid gas generated from drug 21, using the case where drug 21 is a chlorine-based oxidizing agent, more specifically (1) trichloroisocyanuric acid, (2) sodium dichloroisocyanurate, or (3) calcium hypochlorite as an example.

[0020] (1) When drug 21 is trichloroisocyanuric acid As shown in the following reaction equation (1), a hydrolysis reaction occurs when trichloroisocyanuric acid (C3Cl3N3O3) comes into contact with moisture (H2O) in the air contained in the introduced air A1, generating hypochlorous acid (HClO) and cyanuric acid (C3H3N3O3). The generated hypochlorous acid volatilizes as purification component P, becoming gaseous hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas, purification component P). C3Cl3N3O3 + 3H2O → 3HClO + C3H3N3O3···Reaction equation (1)

[0021] (2) When drug 21 is sodium dichloroisocyanurate As shown in the following reaction equation (2), a hydrolysis reaction occurs when sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaC3Cl2N3O3) comes into contact with moisture (H2O) in the air contained in the introduced air A1, generating hypochlorous acid (HClO), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and cyanuric acid (C3H3N3O3). The generated hypochlorous acid volatilizes as purification component P, becoming gaseous hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas, purification component P). NaC3Cl2N3O3 + 3H2O → 2HClO + NaOH + C3H3N3O3 ... Reaction equation (2)

[0022] (3) When drug 21 is calcium hypochlorite As shown in the following reaction equation (3), a hydrolysis reaction occurs when calcium hypochlorite (Ca(OCl)2) comes into contact with moisture (H2O) in the air contained in the introduced air A1, generating hypochlorous acid (HClO) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). The generated hypochlorous acid volatilizes as purification component P, becoming gaseous hypochlorous acid (hypochlorous acid gas, purification component P). Ca(OCl)2 + 2H2O → 2HClO + Ca(OH)2 ... Reaction equation (3)

[0023] The inlet 22 is an opening for circulating introduced air A1 (indicated by a white arrow), which has been introduced from the external space R into the internal space 10c of the housing 10 via the first opening 10a, into the drug holding section 20. The inlet 22 may be located, for example, on the left side of the drug holding section 20 (the side of the first opening 10a, the yz plane on the negative x-axis side).

[0024] The outlet 23 is an opening for allowing purified air A2 (indicated by an upward-sloping arrow) containing the purifying component P generated within the drug holding section 20 to flow out from the drug holding section 20 into the internal space 10c of the housing 10. The outlet 23 may be located, for example, on the right side of the drug holding section 20 (the side of the second opening 10b, on the yz plane on the positive x-axis side).

[0025] Next, we will explain the sequence of events in which the external space R is purified by the space purification device 1.

[0026] Air A1 is introduced from the external space R into the internal space 10c of the housing 10 through the first opening 10a of the housing 10. The introduced air A1 is introduced into the inside of the chemical holding section 20 through the inlet 22 of the chemical holding section 20. The introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding section 20 contains moisture, and a purifying component P is generated in the chemical holding section 20 by the reaction of this moisture with the chemical 21. As described above, the purifying component P is, for example, gaseous hypochlorous acid gas. The purified air A2 containing the generated purifying component P is released into the external space R through the outlet 23, the internal space 10c of the housing 10, and the second opening 10b. The released purified air A2 containing the purifying component P purifies the external space R.

[0027] The first opening 10a and the second opening 10b do not necessarily have to be on the same plane. For example, the first opening 10a may be located on the top surface of the housing 10, and the second opening 10b may be located on the side of the housing 10, for example, the right side (the yz plane on the positive x-axis side). If the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b are circular or elliptical in shape, they may be located at opposite ends on the top surface of the housing 10.

[0028] Note that the "first" and "second" designations of the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b are merely ordinal numbers assigned for convenience, and therefore the order of arrangement is not particularly limited. That is, in Figure 1, the opening located on the negative x-axis side may be designated as the second opening 10b, and the opening located on the positive x-axis side may be designated as the first opening 10a. When the air purification device 1 is placed in the airflow from the air conditioning equipment located in the external space R, i.e., in the airflow, the airflow is unidirectional, so the incoming air A1 from the external space R is introduced into the internal space 10c of the housing 10 through the first opening 10a, and the purified air A2 is released from the second opening 10b. On the other hand, when the air purification device 1 is placed in a location unrelated to the airflow from the air conditioning equipment, the roles of the first opening 10a and the second opening 10b may be appropriately swapped depending on the conditions of the external space R in which the housing 10 is located, for example, depending on the wind direction.

[0029] In this example, the inlet 22 and outlet 23 of the drug holding unit 20 are conveniently designated as the first opening 10a side (inlet side for introduced air A1) and the outlet 23 side (outlet side for purified air A2), but are not limited to this configuration. For example, the roles of the inlet 22 and outlet 23 may be appropriately swapped depending on the conditions of the external space R in which the housing 10 is located, for example, depending on the wind direction. It is not necessary to provide both an inlet 22 and an outlet 23; it is sufficient for at least a part of the drug holding unit 20 to be open and allow introduced air A1 to flow. For example, the top surface of the drug holding unit 20 (the xy plane on the positive z-axis side) may be made open to serve as both an inlet 22 and an outlet 23, while the left and right sides of the drug holding unit 20 remain closed.

[0030] Furthermore, in order to suppress short circuits that may occur between the inlet 22 and the outlet 23, the internal space 10c of the housing 10 is partitioned to separate the space between the inlet 22 side and the outlet 23 side. A partition section (not shown) may be provided. Here, "short circuit that may occur between the inlet 22 and the outlet 23" means the phenomenon in which purified air A2 flowing out from the outlet 23 of the chemical holding section 20 is drawn into the inlet 22 as introduced air A1.

[0031] As described above, the following effects can be enjoyed with the space purification device according to Embodiment 1.

[0032] The space purification device 1 according to this embodiment includes a drug holding unit 20 that holds a solid or gel-like drug 21 containing a water-soluble oxidizing agent. When moisture contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding unit 20 from the external space R reacts with the drug 21, a purification component P is generated in the drug holding unit 20, and the purified air A2 containing the purification component P is released into the external space R, thereby purifying the external space R.

[0033] With the above configuration, a gaseous purification component P, such as hypochlorous acid gas, is generated from the chemical holding unit 20. In other words, compared to the case where a liquid purification component, such as hypochlorous acid water, is sprayed, the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 1 is reduced. Therefore, a space purification device 1 capable of reducing the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 1 can be provided.

[0034] Furthermore, in the air purification device 1 according to this embodiment, the water-soluble oxidizing agent is a chlorine-based oxidizing agent, and the purification component is hypochlorous acid.

[0035] Here, in addition to gaseous hypochlorous acid, ozone is known as a gas that has the effect of removing bacteria, fungi, viruses, or odors contained in the air (purification effect). However, ozone is known to decompose about 2.5 times more easily in the air than gaseous hypochlorous acid. Therefore, by using gaseous hypochlorous acid gas, it is possible to maintain a purification effect in the air that is 2.5 times or more than that of ozone. Thus, by having the above configuration, it is possible to provide an air purification device that can purify the external space R for a long period of time compared to when ozone is used as the purification component.

[0036] <Embodiment 2> The air purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that it adjusts the amount of purification component P generated based on the amount of water introduced, which is the amount of water contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20, so that the amount of purification component P generated is within a predetermined range. The appearance of the air purification device 2 is the same as that of Embodiment 1 (see Figure 1), so its description is omitted. The following description will focus on the differences from Embodiment 1, and components similar to those in Embodiment 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, with descriptions omitted as appropriate.

[0037] Figure 3 is a front cross-sectional view showing the air purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2. In this embodiment, the air purification device 2 further comprises a temperature and humidity acquisition unit S, a first opening degree adjustment unit 10d, a second opening degree adjustment unit 10e, and a control unit 30.

[0038] The temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquires temperature and humidity information of the introduced air A1 immediately after it is introduced from the external space R into the internal space 10c of the housing 10. Here, "temperature and humidity information" refers to the temperature information and relative humidity information of the introduced air A1. Based on the temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S, the control unit 30, which will be described later, identifies the amount of introduced moisture, which is the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding unit 20.

[0039] The temperature and humidity acquisition unit S is positioned in the internal space 10c of the housing 10, in a location where it can come into contact with the incoming air A1 immediately after it is introduced. For example, it is within about 10 cm of the first opening 10a, but is not limited to this. Since it only needs to be placed in any location, the installation position of the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S is not limited to within approximately 10 cm of the perimeter of the first opening 10a.

[0040] The temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquires temperature and humidity information of the introduced air A1 immediately after it is introduced into the internal space 10c of the housing 10. This temperature and humidity information is essentially synonymous with the temperature and humidity information of the external space R. Therefore, it is also possible to place the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S on the external space R side (surface side) of the housing 10 and measure the temperature and humidity information of the external space R to substitute for the temperature and humidity information of the introduced air A1.

[0041] The first opening adjustment unit 10d is installed downstream of the first opening 10a in the flow direction of the introduced air A1 and is a mechanism for adjusting the opening degree of the first opening 10a. More specifically, the first opening adjustment unit 10d is, for example, a solenoid valve or a shutter mechanism equipped with a plate-shaped member. The opening degree of the first opening adjustment unit 10d is adjusted by the control unit 30, which will be described later. That is, the control unit 30 sets the first opening adjustment unit 10d to either an open or closed state. The control unit 30 determines whether the first opening adjustment unit 10d is in an open or closed state based on the amount of introduced moisture, which is the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding unit 20. Details of this control will be described later with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0042] When the first opening adjustment unit 10d is in the open state by the control unit 30, the introduced air A1 is introduced into the drug holding unit 20 via the internal space 10c. On the other hand, when the first opening adjustment unit 10d is in the closed state by the control unit 30, the introduced air A1 is not introduced into the drug holding unit 20. Furthermore, the opening of the first opening adjustment unit 10d does not necessarily have to be fully open or fully closed; its opening can be adjusted by setting it to a half-open state, for example. In the example shown in Figure 3, the first opening adjustment unit 10d is shown positioned downstream of the first opening 10a in the flow direction of the introduced air A1, but it is sufficient to control the contact between the drug holding unit 20 and the introduced air A1, and its position is not limited to the downstream side of the first opening 10a. For example, the first opening adjustment unit 10d may be installed upstream of the first opening 10a in the flow direction of the introduced air A1.

[0043] The second opening adjustment unit 10e is installed on the upstream side of the second opening 10b in the flow direction of the purified air A2, and is a mechanism for adjusting the opening degree of the second opening 10b. More specifically, the second opening adjustment unit 10e is, like the first opening 10a, a shutter mechanism equipped with, for example, a solenoid valve or a plate-shaped member. The opening degree of the second opening adjustment unit 10e is adjusted by the control unit 30, which will be described later. That is, the control unit 30 sets the second opening adjustment unit 10e to either an open or closed state. The control unit 30 determines whether the second opening adjustment unit 10e is in an open or closed state based on the amount of water introduced, which is the amount of water contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding unit 20. Details of this control will be described later with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0044] When the control unit 30 opens the second opening adjustment unit 10e, the purified air A2 is released into the external space R. On the other hand, when the control unit 30 closes the second opening adjustment unit 10e, the purified air A2 is not released into the external space R. Furthermore, the opening of the second opening adjustment unit 10e does not necessarily have to be fully open or fully closed; its opening can be adjusted by setting it to a half-open state, for example. In the example shown in Figure 3, the second opening adjustment unit 10e is shown to be installed on the upstream side of the second opening 10b in the flow direction of the purified air A2, but it is sufficient to control the release of the purified air A2 into the external space R, and its position is not limited to the upstream side of the second opening 10b. For example, the second opening adjustment unit 10e may be installed on the downstream side of the second opening 10b in the flow direction of the purified air A2.

[0045] The control unit 30 is located in the internal space 10c of the housing 10. Here, the generation of the purification component P from the chemical agent 21 requires a reaction with moisture (H2O) in the air, as described in Embodiment 1. That is, depending on the amount of moisture contained in the air A1 introduced from the external space R, The amount of purifying component P generated also changes. More specifically, as the amount of water in contact with the chemical 21 decreases, the amount of purifying component P generated also decreases. On the other hand, as the amount of water in contact with the chemical 21 increases, the amount of purifying component P generated also increases.

[0046] The control unit 30 identifies the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 based on the temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. In other words, the amount of moisture contained is the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1. Based on this amount of moisture contained, the control unit 30 adjusts the opening of the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e to adjust the amount of purification component P (e.g., hypochlorous acid gas) contained in the purified air A2 released into the external space R. This stabilizes the amount of purification component P generated, i.e., its concentration, so that purified air A2 containing the desired amount of purification component P can be stably released. The configuration and control contents of the control unit 30 will be explained in more detail below with reference to Figure 4.

[0047] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram showing the control unit 30 of the space purification device according to Embodiment 2. Alternatively, the control unit 30 includes an input unit 31, a storage unit 32, a timing unit 33, a processing unit 34, and an output unit 35.

[0048] The input unit 31 receives the temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. The input unit 31 outputs the received information to the processing unit 34.

[0049] The memory unit 32 stores the amount of moisture introduced (absolute humidity) based on temperature information and humidity information, and the correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) and the amount of volatilization of the purification component P. The "correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) and the amount of volatilization of the purification component P" is a correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) and the amount of volatilization of the purification component P corresponding to that amount of moisture (absolute humidity), which has been experimentally evaluated and determined in advance. The amount of moisture introduced may be calculated by a calculation unit separate from the memory unit 32, based on the temperature and humidity information acquired from the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. The calculation unit may be provided in the control unit 30 or in the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S.

[0050] The storage unit 32 is composed of a non-volatile storage device. The non-volatile storage device is, for example, flash memory or a hard disk drive. Note that the storage unit 32 may not be built into the control unit 30, but may be provided as a separate unit.

[0051] The timing unit 33 outputs information regarding the adjustment decision time and total operating time of the air purification device 2 to the processing unit 34. Here, the "adjustment decision time" is the time at which the air purification device 2 determines whether or not to adjust the amount of purified component P generated, and is, for example, 5 minutes. The total operating time is the time from the start to the end of the purification operation, which is the operation in which the air purification device 2 releases purified air A2 containing the purified component P into the external space R, and is, for example, 8 hours. In other words, as an example, the air purification device 2 adjusts the amount of purified component P generated every 5 minutes and operates for 8 hours.

[0052] The processing unit 34 receives information from the input unit 31, the storage unit 32, and the timing unit 33. Using the received information, the processing unit 34 identifies control information to continue the purification operation of the air purification device 2 if the amount of introduced moisture is within a predetermined range. Here, if the amount of introduced moisture is within a predetermined range, the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 supplied to the chemical holding unit 20 is within a predetermined range, and the amount (concentration) of the purification component P generated from the chemical 21 is within a desired predetermined range. Here, the amount of purification component P within a "predetermined range" means the range of generation amounts sufficient to exert a removal effect on bacteria, fungi, viruses, or odors contained in the air of the external space R. On the other hand, if the amount of purification component P is outside the predetermined range, the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e are closed, and the purification operation of the air purification device 2 is stopped.

[0053] The output unit 35 receives control information from the processing unit 34. The output unit 35 is connected wirelessly or via wire to the first opening degree adjustment unit 10d and the second opening degree adjustment unit 10e. In the case of a wired connection, it is electrically connected. Based on the control signals received from the processing unit 34, the output unit 35 outputs control signals related to the control information identified by the processing unit 34.

[0054] Next, we will explain the sequence of events in which the external space R is purified by the space purification device 2 (see Figure 3).

[0055] Air A1 is introduced from the external space R into the internal space 10c of the housing 10 via the first opening 10a and the first opening adjustment unit 10d of the housing 10. The introduced air A1 is introduced into the inside of the chemical holding unit 20 via the inlet 22 of the chemical holding unit 20. The introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 contains moisture, and a purification component P is generated in the chemical holding unit 20 by a reaction between this moisture and the chemical 21. As described above, the purification component P is, for example, gaseous hypochlorous acid gas. The purified air A2 containing the generated purification component P is released into the external space R via the outlet 23, the internal space 10c of the housing 10, the second opening adjustment unit 10e, and the second opening 10b. The purified air A2 containing the released purification component P purifies the external space R.

[0056] Next, the operation of the air purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2 will be explained using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the control unit 30 of the air purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2.

[0057] First, as the air purification device 2 starts its purification operation, the first opening 10a opens, and the introduced air A1 is introduced into the internal space 10c of the housing 10 (see Figure 3). Also, the second opening adjustment section 10e opens, and the purified air A2 is released into the external space R.

[0058] As the air purification device 2 starts its purification operation, the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquires temperature and humidity information contained in the introduced air A1, and the control unit 30 determines the amount of introduced moisture based on this temperature and humidity information (step S1). If the amount of introduced moisture determined in step S1 is within a predetermined range (YES in step S2), the process proceeds to step S3. Here, "the amount of introduced moisture being within a predetermined range" means that it is below the upper limit of moisture required to suppress the generation of more purified components P (e.g., hypochlorous acid gas) than desired from the air purification device 2. More specifically, the amount of introduced moisture is, for example, the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1 being 20.6 g / m³. 3 This applies to cases where the value is less than the desired amount. "Suppressing the generation of purification component P in excess of the desired amount" from the air purification device 2 means, in other words, suppressing the generation of excessive purification component P from the air purification device 2.

[0059] If the air purification device 2 is in the process of purification in step S3 (YES in step S3), proceed to step S4. In step S4, if it is determined that the adjustment decision time, which is the time that determines whether or not the air purification device 2 will adjust the amount of purification component P generated, has elapsed (YES in step S4), proceed to step S5. Here, the predetermined adjustment decision time is, as mentioned above, for example, 5 minutes, and can be set to any time by the user of the air purification device 2. In step S5, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S5), return to step S1 to adjust the amount of purification component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S5), proceed to step S10, and close the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e to stop the purification operation of the air purification device 2.

[0060] On the other hand, if the adjustment decision time has not elapsed in step S4 (NO in step S4), proceed to step S6 and continue operating the air purification device 2. Subsequently, step S The process proceeds to step 7. If the adjustment decision time has not elapsed (NO in step S7), the process returns to step S6 to continue the purification operation. On the other hand, if the adjustment decision time has elapsed (YES in step S7), the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S5), the process returns to step S1 to adjust the amount of purification component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S5), the process proceeds to step S10, where the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e are closed, and the purification operation of the air purification device 2 is stopped.

[0061] If the amount of introduced moisture identified in step S1 is outside the predetermined range (NO in step S2), proceed to step S8, and the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e are closed to stop the purification operation of the air purification device 2. Next, proceed to step S4, and if it is determined that the predetermined adjustment judgment time has elapsed (YES in step S4), proceed to step S5. In step S5, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S5), return to step S1 to adjust the amount of purified component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S5), return to step S1. If the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S5), proceed to step S10, and the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e are closed to stop the purification operation of the air purification device 2.

[0062] Furthermore, if the purification operation is stopped in step S3 (NO in step S3), proceed to step S9 and restart the purification operation of the air purification device 2. Then proceed to step S4.

[0063] By having the control unit 30 perform the above-described processing, the purification operation can be stopped when the introduced air A1 is at high humidity, thereby suppressing the release of excessive purification components P. Therefore, compared to the case where the amount of purification components P generated is not adjusted, the concentration of purification components P contained in the purified air A2 released into the external space R can be made more stable.

[0064] In Embodiment 2, the predetermined range for the amount of introduced moisture is such that the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1 is, for example, 20.6 g / m³. 3 While it is stated that the value should be less than this, it is not limited to this value. It can be appropriately changed depending on the size of the external space R in which the space purification device 2 is installed and the amount of purified component P to be released. Furthermore, although the total operating time is defined as the elapsed time from the start of the purification operation of the space purification device 2, there may be cases where the purification operation stops intermittently. Therefore, it may also be defined as the cumulative time from the start of the purification operation of the space purification device 2 to the actual continuous time of the purification operation.

[0065] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e are set to an open state during purification operation and a closed state when stopped, but the opening degree may be adjusted. For example, the opening degree of the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e may be set to 100%, or to 50%. In other words, by changing the opening degree of the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e in steps, the amount of purified components generated can be controlled in more steps. Note that the opening degree of the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e may be changed steplessly instead of in multiple steps.

[0066] As described above, the following effects can be enjoyed with the space purification device according to Embodiment 2.

[0067] In the air purification device 2 according to this embodiment, the amount of purification component P generated is adjusted based on the amount of water introduced, which is the amount of water contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20, so that the amount of purification component P generated falls within a desired predetermined range. More specifically, the air purification device 2 adjusts the amount of purification component P generated by adjusting the openings of the first opening adjustment unit 10d and the second opening adjustment unit 10e based on the amount of water introduced.

[0068] By providing the above configuration, a gaseous purification component P, such as hypochlorous acid gas, is generated from the chemical holding unit 20. In other words, compared to the case where a liquid purification component, such as hypochlorous acid water, is sprayed, the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 2 is reduced. Therefore, a space purification device 2 capable of reducing the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 2 can be provided. Furthermore, by providing a first opening adjustment unit 10d and a second opening adjustment unit 10e, the amount of purification component P generated can be adjusted according to the amount of moisture introduced based on the temperature and humidity of the external space R, so that a desired predetermined range of purification component P can be released. Therefore, a space purification device 2 that can exhibit stable purification performance in the external space R can be provided.

[0069] <Embodiment 3> The space purification device 3 according to Embodiment 3 further includes a blower unit 12 that blows air so that introduced air A1 is introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 and purified air A2 is released into the external space R. The blower unit 12 differs from Embodiments 1 and 2 in that it adjusts the amount of purified components P generated by adjusting the amount of introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 based on the amount of introduced moisture. The following description will focus on the differences from Embodiments 1 and 2, and components similar to those in Embodiments 1 and 2 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, with explanations omitted as appropriate.

[0070] Figure 6 is a front cross-sectional view showing the air purification device 3 according to Embodiment 3. The air purification device 3 according to Embodiment 3 comprises an inlet side air passage 11, a blower section 12, and an outlet side air passage 15. The air purification device 3 may further include an inlet side check valve 13 for suppressing backflow of the inlet air A1 and an outlet side check valve 14 for suppressing backflow of the purified air A2.

[0071] The intake air passage 11 connects the first opening 10a and the blowing section 12, and is an air passage that guides the intake air A1 from the external space R to the blowing section 12. In this embodiment, the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S is located inside the intake air passage 11. The temperature and humidity acquisition unit S located inside the intake air passage 11 acquires temperature and humidity information of the intake air A1 circulating inside the intake air passage 11.

[0072] The air blower 12 is an air blower capable of adjusting the amount of introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding unit 20 based on the amount of introduced moisture. In this embodiment, one end of the air blower 12 is connected to the introduction-side air passage 11, and the other end is connected to the introduction-side check valve 13. If the introduction-side check valve 13 is not provided, the other end of the air blower 12 may be directly connected to the drug holding unit 20. The air blower 12 includes an introduction section 12a, a fan 12b, and an outlet section 12c. The air blower 12 circulates the introduced air A1 in the order of introduction section 12a, fan 12b, and outlet section 12c, and blows it to the drug holding unit 20 via the introduction-side check valve 13.

[0073] The inlet section 12a is an air passage for introducing the introduced air A1 to the fan 12b. The fan 12b is equipped with a motor (not shown) and is a device that rotates an impeller (not shown) in conjunction with the rotation of the motor to send out the introduced air A1. More specifically, the fan 12b is, for example, a sirocco fan. One end of the fan 12b is connected to the inlet section 12a, and the other end is connected to the outlet section 12c. The outlet section 12c is an air passage for leading the introduced air A1 to the drug holding section 20 via the inlet-side check valve 13.

[0074] The air blower 12 can increase or decrease the amount of moisture per unit time (absolute humidity) supplied to the chemical 21 by adjusting the airflow rate (air volume) of the introduced air A1 to the chemical holding section 20 by increasing or decreasing the motor rotation speed of the fan 12b.

[0075] As an example of conditions in which the introduced air A1 from the external space R contains the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) necessary to generate the desired purification component P (e.g., hypochlorous acid gas) from the chemical 21, the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1 obtained by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S is 12.9 g / m³. 3 Let's explain using an example where the reference values ​​are set to (for example, relative humidity of 50% and temperature of 27°C). The temperature and humidity acquisition unit S If the absolute humidity of the acquired incoming air A1 is lower than the standard value, the amount of moisture supplied to the agent 21 is the same as the standard value by increasing the airflow rate. More specifically, if the absolute humidity of the incoming air A1 acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S is lower than the standard value of 7.72 g / m³ 3 For example, if the relative humidity is 30% and the temperature is 27°C, increasing the airflow rate by approximately 1.7 times will supply the same amount of moisture (absolute humidity) to the agent 21 as the standard value.

[0076] If the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) of the introduced air A1, as determined by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S, is higher than the standard value, the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) equivalent to the standard value can be supplied to the chemical 21 by reducing the airflow rate. More specifically, if the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1, as determined by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S, is higher than the standard value of 18.0 g / m³, then... 3(for example, when the relative humidity is 70% and the air temperature is 27°C), by reducing the air blowing volume to approximately 0.7 times, it is possible to supply the chemical agent 21 with a moisture content (absolute humidity) equivalent to the reference value.

[0077] The air blowing volume of the air blowing unit 12 is, for example, 0.0005 m 3 / min to 0.01 m 3 / min, which is a relatively small air blowing volume relative to the volume of the external space R. Therefore, the air blown by the air blowing unit 12 does not actively humidify the external space R, and humidification of the external space R can be reduced compared to the case where air containing a large amount of moisture is blown at a large air blowing volume.

[0078] When the surface area of the chemical agent 21 is constant, the generation amount of the purification component P per unit time changes according to the moisture content (absolute humidity) contained in the introduced air A1 per unit time introduced into the chemical agent holding unit 20, that is, the moisture content (absolute humidity) per unit time that comes into contact with the chemical agent 21. As a specific example, for instance, the moisture content of the introduced air A1 is 12.9 g / m 3 , and the air blowing volume is 0.001 m 3 / min, assume that the amount of the purification component P generated in this case is 0.72 mmol. Here, the moisture content of the introduced air A1 is increased to 25.8 g / m 3 , and the air blowing volume remains unchanged at 0.001 m 3 / min, the purification component P generated is 1.44 mmol. Further, the moisture content of the introduced air A1 remains unchanged at 12.9 g / m 3 , the air blowing volume is increased to 0.002 m 3 / min, the purification component P generated is 1.44 mmol.

[0079] The inlet-side check valve 13 is a valve for suppressing the backflow of the inlet air A1. One end of the inlet-side check valve 13 is connected to the outlet 12c of the blower unit 12, and the other end is connected to the drug holding unit 20. While the blower unit 12 is operating, the inlet-side check valve 13 connects the blower unit 12 and the drug holding unit 20. On the other hand, while the blower unit 12 is stopped, the inlet-side check valve 13 blocks the connection between the blower unit 12 and the drug holding unit 20. In other words, while the blower unit 12 is operating, the inlet air A1 is blown to the drug holding unit 20 via the inlet-side check valve 13, but while the blower unit 12 is stopped, the inlet air A1 is not blown to the drug holding unit 20.

[0080] The discharge-side check valve 14 is a valve for suppressing the backflow of purified air A2. One end of the discharge-side check valve 14 is connected to the chemical holding unit 20, and the other end is connected to the discharge-side air passage 15. While the blower unit 12 is operating, the discharge-side check valve 14 connects the chemical holding unit 20 and the discharge-side air passage 15. On the other hand, while the blower unit 12 is stopped, the discharge-side check valve 14 blocks the chemical holding unit 20 and the discharge-side air passage 15. In other words, while the blower unit 12 is operating, the purified air A2 is blown into the discharge-side air passage 15 via the discharge-side check valve 14, but while the blower unit 12 is stopped, the purified air A2 is not blown into the discharge-side air passage 15.

[0081] The discharge-side air passage 15 connects the discharge-side check valve 14 and the second opening 10b, and is an air passage that guides the purified air A2 to the external space R.

[0082] The configuration of the control unit 30 is the same as in Embodiment 2, but the parts that mainly differ in function will be explained below with reference to Figure 4. The control unit 30 receives temperature information and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. Based on the information, the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 is determined. In other words, the amount of introduced moisture is the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1. Based on the determined amount of introduced moisture, the control unit 30 adjusts the amount of purified air A2 released into the external space R by adjusting the airflow rate of the blower unit 12, thereby adjusting the amount of purified air A2 containing the purified air (e.g., hypochlorous acid gas) generated.

[0083] Similar to Embodiment 2, the input unit 31 receives temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. The input unit 31 outputs the received information to the processing unit 34.

[0084] The memory unit 32 stores the amount of introduced moisture (absolute humidity) based on temperature and humidity information, as well as the correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity), the airflow rate of the air blower 12, and the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P. The "correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity), the airflow rate of the air blower 12, and the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P" is a correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) and the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P according to the airflow rate of the air blower 12, which has been experimentally evaluated and determined in advance. When the amount of introduced moisture supplied to the chemical 21 is within a predetermined range, the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P will be within the desired volatilization range. In this embodiment, the amount of introduced moisture supplied to the chemical 21 is adjusted so that it is within a predetermined range by adjusting the airflow rate of the air blower 12.

[0085] The storage unit 32 is composed of a non-volatile storage device, similar to the second embodiment. The non-volatile storage device is, for example, a flash memory or a hard disk drive. Note that the storage unit 32 may not be built into the control unit 30, but may be provided as a separate unit.

[0086] Similar to Embodiment 2, the timing unit 33 outputs information regarding the adjustment decision time and total operating time of the air purification device 3 to the processing unit 34. Here, "adjustment decision time" is the time at which the air purification device 2 determines whether or not to adjust the amount of purified component P generated, and is, for example, 5 minutes. The total operating time is the time from the start to the end of the purification operation, which is the operation in which the air purification device 3 releases purified air A2 containing the purified component P into the external space R, and is, for example, 8 hours. In other words, as an example, the air purification device 2 adjusts the amount of purified component P generated every 5 minutes and operates for 8 hours.

[0087] The processing unit 34 receives information from the input unit 31, information from the storage unit 32, and information from the timing unit 33. Using the received information, the processing unit 34 determines whether to maintain the airflow rate from the air blower unit 12, increase it if the airflow rate is low, or decrease it if the airflow rate is high, and instructs the output unit 35 accordingly.

[0088] The output unit 35 receives control information from the processing unit 34. The output unit 35 is connected to the fan 12b wirelessly or by wire. In the case of a wired connection, it is electrically connected. Based on the control signals received from the processing unit 34, the output unit 35 outputs control signals related to the control information identified by the processing unit 34.

[0089] The processing unit 34 determines the rotation speed of the fan 12b based on the amount of moisture introduced, and the output unit 35 adjusts the airflow rate of the blower unit 12 by adjusting the rotation speed of the fan 12b based on the determination of the processing unit 34. For example, if the processing unit 34 determines that the amount of moisture introduced is within a predetermined range, that is, that the amount of purified component P generated is within a predetermined range, it determines to continue the purification operation of the air purification device 3 without changing the airflow rate of the blower unit 12. On the other hand, if the amount of moisture introduced is outside the predetermined range, that is, that the amount of purified component P generated is outside the predetermined range, the processing unit 34 determines to increase or decrease the motor rotation speed of the blower unit 12. Based on the determination of the processing unit 34, the output unit 35 adjusts the airflow rate of the introduced air A1 to the chemical holding unit 20 by increasing or decreasing the motor rotation speed of the blower unit 12. By increasing or decreasing the motor rotation speed of the blower unit 12, the amount of moisture per unit time (absolute humidity) supplied to the chemical 21 is increased or decreased, and the amount of purified component P generated is controlled to be within a predetermined range.

[0090] Next, we will explain the sequence of events in which the external space R is purified by the space purification device 3 (see Figure 6).

[0091] From the external space R, introduced air A1 is introduced through the first opening 10a of the housing 10 into an introduction-side air passage 11 located inside the housing 10. The introduced air A1 introduced into the introduction-side air passage 11 is introduced into the chemical holding section 20 via the blower section 12 and the introduction-side check valve 13. The introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding section 20 contains moisture, and a purification component P is generated in the chemical holding section 20 by the reaction of this moisture with the chemical 21. As described in Embodiment 1, the purification component P is, for example, gaseous hypochlorous acid gas. The purified air A2 containing the generated purification component P is released into the external space R via the discharge-side check valve 14, the discharge-side air passage 15, and the second opening 10b. The purified air A2 containing the released purification component P purifies the external space R.

[0092] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit 30 of the space purification device 3 according to Embodiment 3.

[0093] As the air purification device 3 starts its purification operation, the air blower 12 begins to operate, and the introduced air A1 is introduced into the introduction-side air passage 11 (see Figure 6). Also, as the air blower 12 operates, the introduction-side check valve 13 and the discharge-side check valve 14 become connected, and the purified air A2 is released into the external space R via the discharge-side air passage 15.

[0094] As the air purification device 3 starts its purification operation, the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquires temperature and humidity information contained in the introduced air A1, and the control unit 30 identifies the amount of introduced moisture contained in the introduced air A1 based on this temperature and humidity information (step S11). In this embodiment, the amount of introduced moisture contained in the introduced air A1 identified is the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1. Next, based on the amount of introduced moisture identified in step S11, it is determined whether to maintain the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12, increase it if the airflow rate is low, or decrease it if the airflow rate is high (step 12). Subsequently, the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 is adjusted based on the amount of introduced moisture (step S13).

[0095] More specifically, the relationship between the amount of moisture and the amount of airflow required to stably release the purifying component P is determined in advance through experiments or other means. If the amount of introduced moisture (absolute humidity) identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 is within the range of a standard value, the amount of purifying component P generated is within a predetermined range, so in step S12, it is determined that the airflow rate of the blower unit 12 is appropriate and should be maintained, and in step S13, the rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is maintained. If the amount of introduced moisture identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 is less than the standard value, in step S12, it is determined that the airflow rate of the blower unit 12 is insufficient and should be increased, and in step S13, the rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is adjusted so that the airflow rate of the blower unit 12 increases. In contrast, if the amount of introduced moisture identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 is greater than the reference value, in step S12 it is determined that the amount of air blown by the air blower unit 12 is too high and should be reduced, and in step S13 the rotation speed of the fan 12b of the air blower unit 12 is adjusted so that the amount of air blown by the air blower unit 12 is reduced.

[0096] Let's refer to Figure 8 for a moment. As an example, the amount of water introduced (x) is 10 g / m². 3 More than 20g / m 3 When a value less than a certain threshold is used as the baseline, the increase or decrease in the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 in step S12 of Figure 7, and the adjustment of the airflow rate in step S13 will be explained in more detail. Figure 8 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the amount of moisture introduced and the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 in Embodiment 3. The table in Figure 8 shows the relationship between the amount of moisture (x) and the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 such that the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) per unit time introduced into the drug holding unit 20 is within a predetermined range. The table in Figure 8 is determined in advance through experiments, etc., and stored in the memory unit 3 of the control unit 30. It is stored in 2.

[0097] For example, if the amount of water introduced (x) is within the standard range, the airflow rate of the air blower 12 is 0.001 m³. 3 The fan 12b of the blower unit 12 rotates at a predetermined speed so that the amount of air introduced (x) is within the standard range (10 g / m³). 3 More than 20g / m3 (less than) and more specifically, the amount of water introduced (x) is 12.9 g / m². 3 If this is the case, the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 is 0.001 m³. 3 By blowing air using the blower unit 12 at a rate of / min, it is possible to generate a purification component P (for example, hypochlorous acid gas at 0.72 mmol / min) within a desired predetermined range of generation amount (concentration).

[0098] The control unit 30 determines the amount of introduced moisture (x) in step S11 to be, for example, 10 g / m², where the absolute humidity is within the reference range. 3 More than 20g / m 3 If the value is less than the specified value, in step S12 it is determined that the airflow rate of the blower unit 12 is appropriate and therefore "maintain". If it is determined that the airflow rate should be maintained, in step S13 the rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is maintained.

[0099] The control unit 30 determines the amount of introduced moisture (x) in step S11 as, for example, 5 g / m², where the absolute humidity is less than the range of the reference value. 3 If the value is less than 0.004 m³, it is determined in step S12 that the airflow rate of the air blower 12 is low and should be increased. Subsequently, in step S13, the airflow rate of the air blower 12 is determined to be 0.004 m³ based on the table in Figure 8. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is adjusted so that it increases to / min. Subsequently, in step S13, the airflow rate of the blower unit 12 is set to 0.004 m³ based on the table in Figure 8. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is adjusted so that the airflow rate increases to 0.004 m³ / min. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b in the blower unit 12 is increased to achieve a rotation speed of [number] minutes.

[0100] Furthermore, the amount of introduced moisture (x) identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 is, for example, 5 g / m², where the absolute humidity is less than the range of the reference value. 3 More than 10g / m 3If the value is less than the specified value, in step S12 it is determined that the airflow rate of the air blower 12 is low and should be increased. Subsequently, in step S13, the airflow rate of the air blower 12 is determined to be 0.002 m³ based on the table in Figure 8. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is adjusted so that the airflow rate increases to 0.002 m³ / min. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b in the blower unit 12 is increased to achieve a rotation speed of [number] minutes.

[0101] Thus, if the amount of introduced moisture (x) identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 falls below a reference value, the amount of moisture per unit time (absolute humidity) introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 can be kept within a predetermined range by increasing the rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 and increasing the amount of air blown by the blower unit 12. Therefore, the amount of purified component P generated (concentration) can be kept within a predetermined range.

[0102] In response to this, if the amount of introduced moisture (x) identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 is, for example, 20 g / kg or more, which is higher than the standard range for absolute humidity, then in step S12, it is determined that the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 is too high and should be reduced. Subsequently, in step S13, the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 is determined to be 0.0005 m based on the table in Figure 8. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 is adjusted so that the airflow rate decreases to 0.0005 m³ / min. 3 The rotation speed of the fan 12b in the blower unit 12 is reduced to [number] minutes.

[0103] Thus, if the amount of introduced moisture (x) identified by the control unit 30 in step S11 exceeds the reference value, the amount of moisture per unit time (absolute humidity) introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 can be kept within a predetermined range by reducing the rotation speed of the fan 12b of the blower unit 12 and decreasing the amount of air blown by the blower unit 12. Therefore, the amount of purified component P generated (concentration) can be kept within a predetermined range.

[0104] As described above, by controlling the airflow rate of the air blower 12, the control unit 30 can keep the amount of purified components P generated within a predetermined range even when the amount of introduced moisture (absolute humidity) in the introduced air A1 changes. In other words, even when the amount of introduced moisture (absolute humidity) in the introduced air A1 changes, the air purification device 3 can release purified air A2 containing purified components P within a predetermined range.

[0105] Return to Figure 7. Next, if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed for the adjustment judgment time, which is the time that determines whether or not the air purification device 3 adjusts the amount of purification component P generated (YES in step S14), proceed to step S15. Here, the predetermined time for the adjustment judgment time is, as mentioned above, for example, 5 minutes (see Embodiment 2), and can be set to any time by the user of the air purification device 3. In step S15, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S15), return to step S11 to adjust the amount of purification component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S15), proceed to step S16, stop the blower unit 12, and stop the purification operation of the air purification device 3.

[0106] In step S14, if the adjustment decision time has not elapsed (NO in step S14), proceed to step S17 and continue the purification operation of the air purification device 3. In the following step S18, if the adjustment decision time has not elapsed (NO in step S18), return to step S17 again. If the adjustment decision time has elapsed (YES in step S18), proceed to step S15. If the total operating time of the air purification device 3 has not elapsed (NO in step S15), return to step S11 to adjust the amount of purified component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S15), proceed to step S16, stop the blower unit 12, and stop the purification operation of the air purification device 3.

[0107] In this embodiment, the amount of purification component P generated is controlled to stay within a predetermined range. However, for example, the predetermined range of the amount of purification component P generated may be increased or decreased depending on the relative humidity of the external space R. Generally, bacteria, fungi, viruses, etc., are known to proliferate easily under high humidity conditions. Therefore, when the external space R is under high humidity conditions compared to low humidity conditions, the lower limit of the predetermined range of the amount of purification component P generated may be increased to generate more purification component P, thereby adjusting the system to release purified air A2 containing more purification component P into the external space R.

[0108] In Embodiment 3, a sirocco fan was used as the fan 12b in the blower unit 12, but any fan capable of blowing air is acceptable. Specifically, this could be a propeller fan, turbo fan, or cross-flow fan. Furthermore, the blower unit 12 may be configured without a fan, including an air pump or the like, as long as it has a blowing function. Specifically, this could be a diaphragm pump, rotary vane pump, or piston pump.

[0109] As described above, the following effects can be enjoyed with the space purification device according to Embodiment 3.

[0110] The air purification device 3 according to this embodiment further includes a blower unit 12 that blows air so that introduced air A1 is introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 and purified air A2 is released into the external space R. The blower unit 12 adjusts the amount of purified components P generated by adjusting the amount of introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 based on the amount of introduced moisture.

[0111] With the above configuration, the chemical holding unit 20 generates a gaseous purification component P, such as hypochlorous acid gas. In other words, compared to spraying a liquid purification component such as hypochlorous acid water, the humidification of the space outside the space purification device 3 is reduced. This provides a space purification device 3 that can reduce humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 3. Furthermore, by including a blower unit 12, the amount of purified components P generated can be adjusted according to the amount of moisture introduced based on the temperature and humidity of the external space R, so that purified components P within a desired predetermined range can be released. Therefore, this provides a space purification device 3 that can exhibit stable purification performance in the external space R.

[0112] <Embodiment 4> The air purification device 4 according to Embodiment 4 further includes an opening / closing unit 25 positioned on the exposed surface of the chemical agent 21 of the chemical agent holding unit 20, which can change the area of ​​exposure of the chemical agent 21 to the introduced air A1 by changing the opening ratio. The opening / closing unit 25 adjusts the amount of purification component P generated by adjusting the opening ratio based on the amount of introduced moisture, which is different from Embodiments 1, 2, and 3. The following description will focus on the differences from Embodiments 1, 2, and 3, and components similar to those in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, with descriptions omitted as appropriate.

[0113] Figure 9 is a front cross-sectional view showing a space purification device according to Embodiment 4. The space purification device 4 according to Embodiment 4 further comprises a drug holding section 20 (first drug holding section 20a and second drug holding section 20b), drugs 21 (first drug 21a and second drug 21b), a flow path 24 (first flow path 24a and second flow path 24b), an opening / closing section 25 (first opening / closing section 25a and second opening / closing section 25b), and a connecting section 26.

[0114] In this embodiment, the drug holding section 20 in embodiments 1 to 3 is provided with a first drug holding section 20a and a second drug holding section 20b. That is, this embodiment is provided with two drug holding sections 20 in embodiments 1 to 3. Similarly, in this embodiment, the drug 21 in embodiments 1 to 3 is provided with the first drug 21a housed in the first drug holding section 20a and the second drug 21b housed in the second drug holding section 20b. The first drug 21a and the second drug 21b may each contain the same compound or may each contain different compounds.

[0115] The flow path 24 includes a first flow path 24a and a second flow path 24b. In Figure 9, the first flow path 24a is a flow path located in the region indicated by the dashed line. The second flow path 24b is a flow path located in the region indicated by the double dashed line.

[0116] The first flow path 24a is a cylindrical or rectangular flow path, for example, having a T-shape, for introducing introduced air A1, which is blown from the blower 12 via the inlet-side check valve 13, to the first drug holding section 20a and the second drug holding section 20b. One end of the T-shape of the first flow path 24a (negative x-axis side) is connected to the blower 12 via the inlet-side check valve 13, and the other end of the T-shape (positive x-axis side) is connected to the second flow path 24b, which will be described later. The bottom end of the T-shape of the first flow path (positive z-axis side in Figure 9) is connected to the first drug holding section 20a.

[0117] The second flow path 24b is a cylindrical or rectangular flow path, for example, having an L-shape, for introducing the intake air A1, which is blown from the blower 12 via the inlet-side check valve 13, to the second drug holding section 20b. One end of the second flow path 24b (negative x-axis side) is connected to the first flow path 24a, and the other end (positive z-axis side) is connected to the second drug holding section 20b.

[0118] The opening / closing section 25 includes a first opening / closing section 25a and a second opening / closing section 25b. The opening / closing section 25 can be in one of two states: open or closed. The opening / closing section 25 may be a valve that can be adjusted in multiple stages or steplessly, but below we will describe the case in which the opening / closing section 25 switches to one of the two states, open or closed. In this embodiment, the opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 as a whole is adjusted based on the amount of introduced moisture identified by the control unit 30. This adjusts the amount of purification component P generated. In this embodiment, since there are two opening / closing sections 25, the overall "opening ratio" of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 can be 0%, 50%, or 100%. More specifically, an "opening ratio of 0%" for the opening / closing section 25 refers to a state where the first opening / closing section 25a is closed and the second opening / closing section 25b is also closed. An "opening ratio of 50%" for the opening / closing section 25 refers to a state where either the first opening / closing section 25a or the second opening / closing section 25b is open and the other is closed. An "opening ratio of 100%" for the opening / closing section 25 refers to a state where the first opening / closing section 25a is open and the second opening / closing section 25b is also open.

[0119] The first opening / closing section 25a is a solenoid valve positioned on the first flow path 24a, and more specifically, is a switching valve capable of closing the first flow path 24a. Since one end of the first flow path 24a is connected to the first drug holding section 20a, it can also be said that the first opening / closing section 25a is positioned on the exposed surface of the first drug 21a. The first opening / closing section 25a may be configured to completely close the first flow path 24a, or it may be configured to partially close the first flow path 24a, that is, to allow adjustment of the opening ratio.

[0120] The second opening / closing section 25b is a solenoid valve positioned on the second flow path 24b, and more specifically, is a switching valve capable of closing the second flow path 24b. Since one end of the second flow path 24b is connected to the second drug holding section 20b, it can also be said that the second opening / closing section 25b is positioned on the exposed surface of the second drug 21b. The second opening / closing section 25b may be configured to completely close the second flow path 24b, or it may be configured to partially close the second flow path 24b, that is, to allow adjustment of the opening ratio.

[0121] The connecting portion 26 is a cylindrical or rectangular tubular member that connects the first drug holding portion 20a and the second drug holding portion 20b. The connecting portion 26 may also be equipped with a third opening / closing portion (not shown) that can change the opening ratio of the connecting portion 26 in conjunction with the first opening / closing portion 25a. Alternatively, the connecting portion 26 may not be provided, and the first drug holding portion 20a and the second drug holding portion 20b may be connected adjacent to each other, with a third opening / closing portion (not shown), such as a plate-shaped shutter mechanism, provided at the connecting portion.

[0122] The configuration of the control unit 30 is the same as in Embodiment 2, but the parts that mainly differ in function will be explained below with reference to Figure 4. The control unit 30 identifies the amount of moisture introduced, which is the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1, based on the temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. In other words, the amount of moisture introduced is the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1. Based on the identified amount of moisture introduced, the control unit 30 changes the exposure area of ​​the first agent 21a and the second agent 21b to the introduced air A1 by changing the opening ratio of the first opening / closing unit 25a and the second opening / closing unit 25b, and adjusts the amount of purification component P (for example, hypochlorous acid gas) generated in the purified air A2 released into the external space R.

[0123] Similar to Embodiment 2, the input unit 31 receives temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. The input unit 31 outputs the received information to the processing unit 34.

[0124] The memory unit 32 stores the amount of moisture introduced (absolute humidity) based on temperature and humidity information, as well as the correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity), the opening ratio of the first opening / closing unit 25a and the opening ratio of the second opening / closing unit 25b, the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12, and the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P. The "correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity), the opening ratio of the first opening / closing unit 25a and the opening ratio of the second opening / closing unit 25b, the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12, and the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P" is the correlation between the amount of moisture (absolute humidity), the opening ratios of the first opening / closing unit 25a and the second opening / closing unit 25b, and the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P, which has been experimentally evaluated and determined in advance. When the amount of moisture supplied to the chemical 21 is within a predetermined range, the amount of volatilization of the purifying component P will be within the desired volatilization range.

[0125] In this embodiment, if the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 and the amount of air blown by the blower 12 are fixed, the amount of purification component P generated changes according to the exposure area (contact area) of the chemical agent 21 to the introduced air A1. In this embodiment, the exposure area of ​​the first chemical agent 21a and the second chemical agent 21b to the introduced air A1 is changed by changing the opening ratio of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, and the amount of moisture supplied to the chemical agent 21 is adjusted to be within a predetermined range.

[0126] The storage unit 32 is composed of a non-volatile storage device, similar to the second embodiment. The non-volatile storage device is, for example, a flash memory or a hard disk drive. Note that the storage unit 32 may not be built into the control unit 30, but may be provided as a separate unit.

[0127] Similar to Embodiment 2, the timing unit 33 outputs information regarding the adjustment decision time and total operating time of the air purification device 4 to the processing unit 34. Here, "adjustment decision time" is the time that determines when the air purification device 4 decides whether or not to adjust the amount of purified component P generated, and is, for example, 5 minutes. The total operating time is the time from the start to the end of the purification operation, which is the operation in which the air purification device 4 releases purified air A2 containing the purified component P into the external space R, and is, for example, 8 hours. In other words, as an example, the air purification device 4 adjusts the amount of purified component P generated every 5 minutes and operates for 8 hours.

[0128] The processing unit 34 receives information from the input unit 31, information from the storage unit 32, and information from the timing unit 33. Using the received information, the processing unit 34 determines whether to maintain, increase, or decrease the opening ratio of the opening / closing unit 25 (first opening / closing unit 25a and second opening / closing unit 25b), and instructs the output unit 35 accordingly.

[0129] The output unit 35 receives control information from the processing unit 34. The output unit 35 is connected to the switching unit 25 wirelessly or by wire. In the case of a wired connection, it is electrically connected. Based on the control signals received from the processing unit 34, the output unit 35 outputs control signals related to the control information identified by the processing unit 34.

[0130] The processing unit 34 determines the opening ratio of the opening / closing unit 25 based on the amount of moisture introduced, and the output unit 35 adjusts the opening ratio of the opening / closing unit 25 based on the determination of the processing unit 34. For example, if the processing unit 34 determines that the amount of moisture introduced is within a predetermined range, that is, that the amount of purified component P generated is within a predetermined range, it decides to continue the purification operation of the air purification device 4 without changing the opening ratio of the opening / closing unit 25. On the other hand, if the processing unit 34 determines that the amount of moisture introduced is outside the predetermined range, that is, that the amount of purified component P generated is outside the predetermined range, the output unit 35 increases or decreases the amount of moisture introduced per unit time (absolute humidity) supplied to the chemical agent 21 by adjusting the opening ratio of the opening / closing unit 25 based on the determination of the processing unit 34, and controls the amount of purified component P generated to be within a predetermined range.

[0131] Next, we will explain the sequence of events in which the external space R is purified by the space purification device 4 (see Figure 9). The adjustment of the opening ratio by the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b will be described later.

[0132] From the external space R, introduced air A1 is introduced through the first opening 10a of the housing 10 into the introduction-side air passage 11 located inside the housing 10. The introduced air A1 introduced into the introduction-side air passage 11 is introduced into the first chemical holding section 20a via the blower section 12, the introduction-side check valve 13, and the first flow path 24a. Similarly, the introduced air A1 introduced into the introduction-side air passage 11 is introduced into the second chemical holding section 20b via the blower section 12, the introduction-side check valve 13, the first flow path 24a, and the second flow path 24b. The introduced air A1 introduced into the first chemical holding section 20a and the second chemical holding section 20b contains moisture, and a purification component P is generated in the chemical holding section 20 by the reaction of this moisture with the chemical 21 (first chemical 21a, second chemical 21b). As described in Embodiment 1, the purification component P is, for example, gaseous hypochlorous acid gas. The purified air A2 containing the purifying component P generated is released into the external space R via the connecting section 26, the second chemical holding section 20b, the discharge-side check valve 14, the discharge-side air passage 15, and the second opening 10b. Similarly, the purified air A2 containing the purifying component P generated within the second chemical holding section 20b is also released into the external space R via the discharge-side check valve 14, the discharge-side air passage 15, and the second opening 10b. The released purified air A2 containing the purifying component P then purifies the external space R.

[0133] Next, specific examples of the operation of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b will be described. In this embodiment, the operation of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b can be broadly classified into two types: "when the introduced air A1 flows through both the first drug holding section 20a and the second drug holding section 20b" and "when the introduced air A1 flows through only the second drug holding section 20b". Expressed in terms of opening ratio, the former can be expressed as an opening ratio of 100%, and the latter as an opening ratio of 50%.

[0134] Here, if the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 and the amount of air blown by the blower 12 are the same, the amount of purification component P generated will change depending on the exposure area (contact area) of the chemical agent 21 to the introduced air A1. As a specific example, for instance, if the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 is 12.9 g / m³ 3 And the airflow rate is 0.001 m³ 3 Let's assume that the amount of purifying component P generated per minute is 0.72 mmol. Here, if the contact area between the agent 21 and the introduced air A1 is halved, the amount of purifying component P generated becomes 0.36 mmol. In other words, when the opening ratio of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b changes from 100% to 50%, the amount of purifying component P generated also changes to half.

[0135] First, we will explain the case where "introduced air A1 flows through both the first drug holding section 20a and the second drug holding section 20b," that is, the case where the opening ratio is 100%. When the opening ratio is 100%, there are cases where both the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b are open, and cases where only the first opening / closing section 25a is open and the second opening / closing section 25b is closed.

[0136] When both the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b are open, the introduced air A1 is introduced into the first chemical holding section 20a via the first opening / closing section 25a and into the second chemical holding section 20b via the second opening / closing section 25b. The purifying component P generated in the first chemical holding section 20a flows through the connecting section 26 and through the second chemical holding section 20b, is released into the discharge-side air passage 15 via the discharge-side check valve 14, and is discharged from the second opening 10b. The purifying component P generated in the second chemical holding section 20b is released into the discharge-side air passage 15 via the discharge-side check valve 14 and is discharged from the second opening 10b.

[0137] On the other hand, when only the first opening / closing section 25a is open and the second opening / closing section 25b is closed, the introduced air A1 is introduced to the first chemical holding section 20a via the first opening / closing section 25a, then flows through the second chemical holding section 20b, is discharged to the discharge air passage 15 via the discharge check valve 14, and is discharged from the second opening 10b. In other words, when only the first opening / closing section 25a is open and the second opening / closing section 25b is closed, the introduced air A1 comes into contact with both the first chemical 21a and the second chemical 21b.

[0138] Next, we will explain the case where "the introduced air A1 flows only through the second drug holding section 20b". The first opening / closing section 25a opens the passage connecting the first passage 24a and the second passage 24b, and closes the passage connecting the first passage 24a and the first drug holding section 20a. The introduced air A1 is introduced to the second opening / closing section 25b located in the second passage 24b via the first opening / closing section 25a located in the first passage 24a, then flows through the second drug holding section 20b, is discharged to the discharge air passage 15 via the discharge check valve 14, and is released from the second opening 10b. In other words, when the introduced air A1 flows only through the second drug holding section 20b, the introduced air A1 comes into contact only with the second drug 21b.

[0139] Here, the surface areas of the first drug 21a and the second drug 21b exposed to air are equal, and introduction Assume that the amount of moisture contained in the air A1 is sufficient to generate the desired purification component P. When the introduced air A1 flows through both the first chemical holding section 20a and the second chemical holding section 20b, i.e., when the opening ratio is 100%, it is possible to generate twice the amount of purification component P compared to when the introduced air A1 flows through only the second chemical holding section 20b, i.e., when the opening ratio is 50%.

[0140] In Embodiment 4, the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b use solenoid valves, but any means that has the function of switching the airflow path can be used, for example, an electric valve or a shutter.

[0141] In this embodiment, the drug holding section 20 (first drug holding section 20a and second drug holding section 20b), drug 21 (first drug 21a and second drug 21b), and opening / closing section 25 (first opening / closing section 25a and second opening / closing section 25b) are configured with two of each, but the number of each component can be changed as appropriate. For example, if the number of drug holding sections 20, drug 21, and opening / closing sections 25 is increased to three each, the amount of water introduced into the drug holding section 20 can be controlled more precisely than when each is configured with two. In other words, by providing three opening / closing sections 25, the opening ratio can be controlled more precisely than when there are two opening / closing sections 25. More specifically, in the case of a configuration with three opening / closing sections 25, the "opening ratio" of the opening / closing sections 25 can be 0%, 33%, 67%, or 100%. Since there are three types of opening ratios when two opening / closing sections 25 are provided, the opening ratio can be controlled more precisely when three opening / closing sections 25 are provided compared to when two opening / closing sections 25 are provided. In other words, by increasing the number of each component, the opening ratio of the opening / closing sections 25 can be controlled more precisely.

[0142] In this embodiment, the opening degree of the opening / closing section 25 may be configured to be adjustable in multiple stages or steplessly. If the opening degree of the opening / closing section 25 is configured to be adjustable in multiple stages or steplessly, the amount of introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding section 20 can be adjusted in multiple stages or steplessly, so the amount of purified component P generated can be adjusted more precisely. In the case where the opening degree of the opening / closing section 25 is configured to be adjustable in multiple stages or steplessly, it is not necessary to provide multiple chemical holding sections 20, chemicals 21, and opening / closing sections 25; one of each may be provided.

[0143] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit 30 of the air purification device 4 according to Embodiment 4.

[0144] As the air purification device 4 starts its purification operation, the blower unit 12 begins to operate, and the introduced air A1 is introduced into the introduction-side air passage 11 (see Figure 9). In addition, as the blower unit 12 operates, for example, both the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b are opened, the first flow path 24a and the second flow path 24b become connected, and the introduction-side check valve 13 and the discharge-side check valve 14 also become connected, and the purified air A2 is released into the external space R via the discharge-side air passage 15.

[0145] As the air purification device 4 starts its purification operation, the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquires temperature and humidity information contained in the introduced air A1, and the control unit 30 determines the amount of introduced moisture based on this temperature and humidity information (step S21). In this embodiment, the amount of introduced moisture contained in the introduced air A1 determined is the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1. Next, based on the amount of introduced moisture determined in step S21, it is determined whether to maintain, increase, or decrease the opening ratio of the first opening / closing unit 25a and the second opening / closing unit 25b (step S22). However, immediately after the start of the purification operation of the air purification device 4 in this embodiment, both the first opening / closing unit 25a and the second opening / closing unit 25b are open, so in step 22 immediately after the start of the purification operation, it is determined whether to maintain or decrease the opening ratio. Next, the opening ratios of the first opening / closing unit 25a and the second opening / closing unit 25b are adjusted based on the amount of introduced moisture (step S23).

[0146] More specifically, a predetermined range of values ​​that serves as a standard for the amount of water introduced is determined in advance through experiments, etc. If the amount of water introduced identified by the control unit 30 in step S21 is within the standard range, the amount of purified component P generated is within the predetermined range, and therefore in step S22 it is determined that the opening ratios of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b are appropriate and should be maintained, and in step S23 the opening ratios of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b are maintained.

[0147] If the amount of water introduced, as determined by the control unit 30 in step S21, is less than the reference value, it is determined in step S22 to increase the opening ratio. If the opening ratio of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, that is, the opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 as a whole, is less than 100%, in step S23, at least one of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, which are closed, is opened to increase the opening ratio.

[0148] More specifically, if the overall opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 is 0% in steps S21 and S22, the opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 is increased to 50% or 100% in step S23. By increasing the opening ratio to 50%, that is, by opening either the first opening / closing section 25a or the second opening / closing section 25b, the introduced air A1 flows through either the first chemical holding section 20a or the second chemical holding section 20b and is released into the external space R as purified air A2.

[0149] Furthermore, if the overall opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 is 50% in steps S21 and S22, the opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 is increased to 100% in step 23. By increasing the opening ratio to 100%, that is, by opening both the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, the introduced air A1 flows through both the first chemical holding section 20a and the second chemical holding section 20b and is released into the external space R as purified air A2.

[0150] However, if the overall opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 in steps S21 and S22 is already 100%, such as immediately after the start of the purification operation of the air purification device 4, then even if it is determined in step S22 to increase the opening ratio, the opening ratios of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b will be maintained in step S23.

[0151] Thus, if the amount of moisture introduced, as determined by the control unit 30 in step S21, falls below a standard value, the amount of moisture per unit time (absolute humidity) introduced into the drug holding unit 20 (first drug holding unit 20a and / or second drug holding unit 20b) can be kept within a predetermined range by increasing the overall opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing units 25 (first opening / closing unit 25a and second opening / closing unit 25b). Therefore, the amount (concentration) of the purifying component P can be kept within a predetermined range.

[0152] In response to this, if the amount of moisture introduced as determined in step S21, for example, the absolute humidity, is greater than the range of the standard value, it is determined in step S22 to reduce the opening ratio of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b. If the opening ratio of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, i.e., the opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 as a whole, is greater than 0%, then in step S23, at least one of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, which are open to reduce the opening ratio, is closed. However, if the opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 as a whole is already 0% in steps S21 and S22, then even if it is determined in step S22 to reduce the opening ratio, the opening ratio of the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b is maintained in step S23.

[0153] Thus, if the amount of water introduced, as determined by the control unit 30 in step S21, is greater than the reference value, the overall opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 (first opening / closing section 25a and second opening / closing section 25b) is reduced, thereby allowing the drug holding section 20 (first drug holding section 20a and / or second The amount of moisture per unit time (absolute humidity) introduced into the second chemical holding section 20b) can be kept within a predetermined range. Therefore, the amount (concentration) of the purifying component P can be kept within a predetermined range.

[0154] As described above, the control unit 30 controls the overall opening ratio of the multiple opening / closing sections 25 (first opening / closing section 25a and second opening / closing section 25b), so that even if the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) in the introduced air A1 changes, the amount of purified component P generated can be kept within a predetermined range. In other words, even if the amount of moisture (absolute humidity) in the introduced air A1 changes, the air purification device 4 can release purified air A2 containing purified component P within a predetermined range.

[0155] Next, if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed for the adjustment judgment time, which is the time that determines whether or not the air purification device 4 will adjust the amount of purified component P generated (YES in step S24), the process proceeds to step S25. Here, the predetermined time for the adjustment judgment time is, as mentioned above, for example, 5 minutes (see Embodiment 2), and can be set to any time by the user of the air purification device 4. In step S25, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S25), the process returns to step S21 to adjust the amount of purified component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S25), the process proceeds to step S26, where the blower unit 12 is stopped, the first opening / closing unit 25a and the second opening / closing unit 25b are closed, and the purification operation of the air purification device 4 is stopped.

[0156] In step S24, if the adjustment decision time has not elapsed (NO in step S24), proceed to step S27 and continue the purification operation of the air purification device 4. In the following step S28, if the adjustment decision time has not elapsed (NO in step S28), return to step S27 again. If the adjustment decision time has elapsed (YES in step S28), proceed to step S25. If the total operating time of the air purification device 4 has not elapsed (NO in step S25), return to step S21 to adjust the amount of purified component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S25), proceed to step S26, stop the blower unit 12, close the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b, and stop the purification operation of the air purification device 4. Furthermore, when stopping the purification operation of the air purification device 4 in step S26, if the air purification device 4 is equipped with an inlet-side check valve 13 and an outlet-side check valve 14, as in the air purification device 4 according to this embodiment, the first opening / closing section 25a and the second opening / closing section 25b may be left open while stopping the purification operation of the air purification device 4.

[0157] In this embodiment, the opening / closing section 25 is separate from the drug holding section 20 and is provided on the outside of the drug holding section 20, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the opening / closing section 25 may be provided on the inside of the drug holding section 20. If the opening / closing section 25 is provided on the inside of the drug holding section 20, a shutter structure may be provided that can change the area of ​​the surface of the drug 21 exposed to the air. This shutter structure may be an aperture shape that can be adjusted in multiple stages or steplessly, or it may be a sliding door-like plate member.

[0158] As described above, the following effects can be enjoyed with the air purification device according to Embodiment 4.

[0159] The air purification device 4 according to this embodiment further includes an opening / closing section 25 (first opening / closing section 25a and second opening / closing section 25b) which is arranged on the exposed surface of the chemical 21 (first chemical 21a and second chemical 21b) of the chemical holding section 20 (first chemical holding section 20a and second chemical holding section 20b), and which can change the area of ​​exposure of the chemical 21 (first chemical 21a and second chemical 21b) to the introduced air A1 by changing the opening ratio. The opening / closing section 25 (first opening / closing section 25a and second opening / closing section 25b) adjusts the amount of purification component P generated by adjusting the opening ratio based on the amount of introduced moisture.

[0160] By providing the above configuration, a gaseous purifying component P, such as hypochlorous acid gas, is generated from the chemical holding unit 20. In other words, compared to spraying a liquid purifying component, such as hypochlorous acid water, the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 4 is reduced. Therefore, a space purification device 4 capable of reducing the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 4 can be provided. Furthermore, by providing an opening / closing unit 25, the amount of purifying component P generated can be adjusted according to the initial moisture content based on the temperature and humidity of the external space R, so that a desired predetermined range of purifying component P can be released. Therefore, a space purification device 4 that can exhibit stable purification performance in the external space R can be provided.

[0161] <Embodiment 5> The space purification device 5 according to Embodiment 5 differs from Embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4 in that it adjusts the amount of purification component P generated by increasing or decreasing the amount of water introduced into the introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20, thereby adjusting it to a target water content, so that the amount of purification component P generated falls within a predetermined range. The following description will focus on the differences from Embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4, and components similar to those in Embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, with explanations omitted as appropriate.

[0162] Figure 11 is a front cross-sectional view showing a space purification device according to Embodiment 5. The space purification device 5 according to Embodiment 5 further includes a moisture content adjustment unit 40. The moisture content adjustment unit 40 increases or decreases the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 by humidifying and / or dehumidifying the introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20, thereby achieving a target moisture content. In this embodiment, "introduced moisture content" means the saturated water vapor content of the introduced air A1. Also, in this embodiment, "target moisture content" means the saturated water vapor content of the introduced air A1 after humidification and / or dehumidification. That is, by humidifying and / or dehumidifying the introduced air A1, the moisture content adjustment unit 40 increases or decreases the saturated water vapor content of the introduced air A1, thereby achieving a saturated water vapor content suitable for the generation of purification components P. The target moisture content may be set within a predetermined range depending on the environment of the external space R in which the space purification device 5 is located. The moisture content adjustment unit 40 adjusts the amount of introduced moisture to a target moisture content within a predetermined range, thereby ensuring that the amount (concentration) of the purifying component P generated from the chemical agent 21 falls within a desired predetermined range. Here, the amount of purifying component P within the "predetermined range" refers to the range of generation sufficient to effectively remove bacteria, fungi, viruses, or odors contained in the external space R. Furthermore, by adjusting the amount of introduced moisture in the introduced air A1 to the target moisture content, the moisture content adjustment unit 40 can suppress the generation of excessive purifying component P from the space purification device 5 when the amount of introduced moisture in the introduced air A1 is excessive.

[0163] The moisture content adjustment unit 40 includes at least one of a humidifying unit 40a that adds moisture to the incoming air A1 and a dehumidifying unit 40b (not shown) that removes moisture from the incoming air A1. In other words, the moisture content adjustment unit 40 may include both the humidifying unit 40a and the dehumidifying unit 40b, or it may include only the humidifying unit 40a, or it may include only the dehumidifying unit 40b.

[0164] Whether the moisture content adjustment unit 40 includes both a humidifying unit 40a and a dehumidifying unit 40b, or just one of them, is determined according to the installation location of the air purification device 5. For example, if it is installed in a room that tends to be dry, it may be equipped with only a humidifying unit 40a, while if it is installed in a bathroom or sanitary room where humidity is high, it may be equipped with only a dehumidifying unit 40b.

[0165] The humidification section 40a, which serves as the moisture content adjustment section 40, includes a water storage section 41 and a heating section 42. More specifically, the humidification section 40a is, for example, a bubbler tube. Details of the water storage section 41 and the heating section 42 will be described later.

[0166] The dehumidification section 40b of the moisture content adjustment section 40 is configured to remove moisture from the introduced air A1 by filling a hollow box-shaped container with a humidity control agent such as silica gel, or to cool and dehumidify the introduced air A1 using a cooling section (not shown). Examples of the cooling section included in the dehumidification section 40b of the moisture content adjustment section 40 include a Peltier element and a heat pump.

[0167] The following explanation will use Figure 11 to describe the case where the moisture content adjustment unit 40 has only a humidifying unit 40a. As shown in Figure 11, the water storage unit 41 has a hollow shape, for example, a box shape, and is configured to store liquid L1 inside. When the moisture content adjustment unit 40 has a water storage unit 41 as the humidifying unit 40a, it is possible to humidify the relative humidity of the incoming air A1 flowing through the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 to approximately 100%. Here, the incoming air A1 is humidified by the humidifying unit 40a of the moisture content adjustment unit 40, but the amount of humidification relative to the volume of the external space R (e.g., living room, bathroom, etc.) is very small, so it does not actively humidify the external space R.

[0168] It is preferable to use pure water as the liquid L1 stored in the water storage section 41. Specific examples of pure water include ion-exchanged water, distilled water, or ultrapure water. By using pure water as the liquid L1 stored in the water storage section 41, it is possible to suppress the formation of scale originating from impurities such as calcium and magnesium inside the water storage section 41 when tap water containing impurities such as calcium and magnesium is stored in the water storage section 41.

[0169] The water storage section 41 has an internal storage space 41a. In other words, the liquid L1 inside the water storage section 41 is not stored up to the ceiling surface (the xy plane on the positive z-axis side), and there is space inside from which the introduced air A1 can be released. The introduced air A1, which has been humidified by flowing through the liquid L1 stored in the water storage section 41, is released into the internal storage space 41a, flows through the inlet-side check valve 13, and is introduced into the drug holding section 20.

[0170] One end (negative x-axis side) of the moisture content adjustment unit 40 is connected to the air blower unit 12, and the other end (positive x-axis side) is connected to the drug holding unit 20 via the inlet check valve 13. More specifically, one end (negative x-axis side) is connected to the outlet 12c of the air blower unit 12 and the water storage unit 41. The other end (positive x-axis side) is connected to the inlet check valve 13 and the internal storage space 41a of the water storage unit 41. In other words, the inlet check valve 13 and the internal storage space 41a of the water storage unit 41 are connected so that the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 does not flow out to the inlet check valve 13. The moisture content adjustment unit 40 is positioned before it is introduced into the drug holding unit 20, and it is sufficient that it can add moisture to the introduced air A1 and humidify it. For example, one end of the moisture content adjustment unit 40 may be connected to the introduction-side air passage 11, and the other end may be connected to the introduction section 12a of the blower unit 12.

[0171] Next, the process by which the introduced air A1 is humidified by the humidification unit 40a of the moisture content adjustment unit 40 will be explained. First, by introducing the introduced air A1 into the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41, the liquid L1 is bubbled, and the introduced air A1 is converted into bubbles B. Subsequently, the introduced air A1, which has become bubbles B inside the water storage unit 41, floats upward vertically through the liquid L1 due to buoyancy. In the process of bubbles B floating through the liquid L1, moisture is added to the bubbles B-shaped introduced air A1 through gas-liquid contact between bubbles B and liquid L1, and the introduced air A1, which is humidified compared to before it was introduced into the moisture content adjustment unit 40, is released into the storage unit space 41a, and is released into the external space R via the inlet-side check valve 13, the chemical holding unit 20, the discharge-side check valve 14, the discharge-side air passage 15, and the second opening 10b. In other words, the introduced air A1 that has flowed through the water storage section 41 is released into the external space R in a more humidified state than before it flowed through the water storage section 41. Due to the gas-liquid contact between the bubbles B and the liquid L1, bubbles B can contain more moisture than the gas-liquid contact between the liquid surface of liquid L1 and the introduced air A1.

[0172] The heating unit 42 is configured to heat the introduced air A1. More specifically, the heating unit 42 is a heater, and by heating the introduced air A1, it can increase the amount of moisture (saturated water vapor) that can be contained in the introduced air A1 per unit. Specific examples of heaters include heat transfer heaters, ceramic heaters, carbon heaters, halogen heaters, etc. The heating unit 42 is configured to allow the heating conditions (heating temperature (set temperature)) to be changed stepwise or continuously to any temperature. In this embodiment, the heating unit 42 is arranged adjacent to or next to the water storage unit 41. Hereinafter, "heating of the introduced air A1 by the heating unit 42" in this specification means that the heating unit 42 heats the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41, thereby indirectly heating the introduced air A1 that has been humidified by the addition of moisture as it flows through the water storage unit 41.

[0173] The heating unit 42 only needs to be able to heat the introduced air A1 and should be positioned before it is introduced into the chemical holding unit 20. For example, the heating unit 42 may be positioned adjacent to or next to the outlet unit 12c of the blower unit 12. However, if the heating unit 42 is positioned adjacent to the outlet unit 12c, the heated introduced air A1 may be affected by the temperature of the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 through which it flows, potentially causing the temperature of the heated introduced air A1 to deviate from the desired temperature. Therefore, by positioning the heating unit 42 adjacent to or next to the water storage unit 41 to heat the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 and indirectly heat the introduced air A1, the introduced air A1 can be heated more stably compared to the case where the heating unit 42 is positioned adjacent to or next to the outlet unit 12c.

[0174] Next, we will explain, using specific examples, the change in the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 when the introduced air A1 is humidified by the humidification unit 40a of the moisture content adjustment unit 40, and when the introduced air A1 is not heated by the heating unit 42 (Example 1) and when it is heated (Example 2).

[0175] The conditions for introduced air A1 are: temperature 25°C, introduced moisture content (saturated water vapor amount) 23.0 g / m³. 3 Therefore, the target moisture content (saturated water vapor amount) after humidification is, for example, 51.1 g / m³. 3 Let's assume the following scenario.

[0176] First, let's explain the case where the introduced air A1 is not heated by the heating unit 42 (Example 1). When the temperature of the water storage unit 41 and the liquid L1 (water) stored in the water storage unit 41 is 25°C, the temperature of the introduced air A1 that has flowed through the water storage unit 41 does not change because it is not heated, and the temperature remains 25°C, the relative humidity is approximately 100%, and the absolute humidity (saturated water vapor amount) of the introduced air A1 after humidification is 23.0 g / m³, which is less than the target water vapor amount. 3 This is the result.

[0177] In contrast, the case in which the introduced air A1 is heated by the heating unit 42, as in the air purification device 5 according to this embodiment (Example 2), will be described. When the heating unit 42 heats the temperature of the water storage unit 41 of the humidification unit 40a and the liquid L1 (water) stored in the water storage unit 41 from 25°C to 40°C, the introduced air A1 that has flowed through the water storage unit 41 is also heated, and the amount of moisture (saturated water vapor amount) that can be contained per unit of introduced air A1 increases. More specifically, the target amount of moisture (saturated water vapor amount) when heated to 40°C is 23.0 g / m³ before heating. 3 From 51.1 g / m 3 The temperature of the introduced air A1 that has flowed through the water storage section 41 is increased to 40°C, the relative humidity is humidified to approximately 100%, and the absolute humidity of the humidified introduced air A1 becomes the saturation water vapor amount, which is the target moisture content of 51.1 g / m³. 3 This is the result.

[0178] Even without heating by the heating unit 42 as in Example 1 above, the humidifying unit 40a can humidify the introduced air A1. However, by heating by the heating unit 42 as in Example 2, the amount of moisture (saturated water vapor amount) that can be contained in the introduced air A1 per unit increases, and the target The humidification unit 40a can humidify the incoming air A1 up to the moisture content.

[0179] The configuration of the control unit 30 is the same as in Embodiment 2, but the parts that mainly differ in function will be explained below with reference to Figure 4. The control unit 30 determines the amount of moisture that can be contained in the introduced air A1, which is the amount of moisture that can be contained in the introduced air A1, based on the temperature information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. In other words, the amount of moisture that can be introduced is the saturated water vapor amount of the introduced air A1. The control unit 30 adjusts the amount of purification component P (for example, hypochlorous acid gas) generated by adjusting the determined amount of moisture that can be introduced to a target amount of moisture. The following describes the case in which the moisture amount adjustment unit 40 has a humidification unit 40a.

[0180] Similar to Embodiment 2, the input unit 31 receives temperature and humidity information acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S. The input unit 31 outputs the received information to the processing unit 34.

[0181] The memory unit 32 stores the amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor amount) based on temperature information, the target amount of moisture (saturated water vapor amount), the saturated water vapor amount corresponding to the temperature information, and the correlation between absolute humidity and the amount of volatilization of the purification component P. The "correlation between absolute humidity and the amount of volatilization of the purification component P" is a correlation between absolute humidity and the amount of volatilization of the purification component P that has been experimentally evaluated and determined in advance. In this embodiment, the introduced air A1 is humidified to a relative humidity of approximately 100% by the water storage unit 41 of the humidification unit 40a, so the introduced air A1 after humidification contains an amount of water vapor equal to the saturated water vapor amount. Therefore, "absolute humidity" as described in this paragraph can also be read as "saturated water vapor amount of the introduced air A1 after humidification" in this embodiment. When the target amount of moisture supplied to the agent 21 is within a predetermined range, the amount of volatilization of the purification component P will be within the range of the desired volatilization amount.

[0182] The storage unit 32 is composed of a non-volatile storage device, similar to the second embodiment. The non-volatile storage device is, for example, a flash memory or a hard disk drive. Note that the storage unit 32 may not be built into the control unit 30, but may be provided as a separate unit.

[0183] Similar to Embodiment 2, the timing unit 33 outputs information regarding the adjustment decision time and total operating time of the air purification device 5 to the processing unit 34. Here, "adjustment decision time" is the time that determines when the air purification device 5 decides whether or not to adjust the amount of purified component P generated, and is, for example, 5 minutes. The total operating time is the time from the start to the end of the purification operation, which is the operation in which the air purification device 5 releases purified air A2 containing the purified component P into the external space R, and is, for example, 8 hours. In other words, as an example, the air purification device 2 adjusts the amount of purified component P generated every 5 minutes and operates for 8 hours.

[0184] The processing unit 34 receives information from the input unit 31, the storage unit 32, and the timing unit 33. Using the received information, the processing unit 34 determines whether to continue heating the heating unit 42 or stop heating, and instructs the output unit 35 accordingly.

[0185] The output unit 35 receives control information from the processing unit 34. The output unit 35 is connected to the heating unit 42 wirelessly or by wire. In the case of a wired connection, it is electrically connected. Based on the control signals received from the processing unit 34, the output unit 35 outputs control signals related to the control information identified by the processing unit 34.

[0186] The processing unit 34 determines that if the amount of moisture in the introduced air A1 is outside the range of the target moisture amount, it will change the heating conditions of the water storage unit 41 and the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 by the heating unit 42. Based on the determination of the processing unit 34, the output unit 35 adjusts the humidification amount by adjusting the heating of the heating unit 42, so that the amount of moisture in the introduced air A1 becomes the target moisture amount, which is within a predetermined range. By adjusting the amount of moisture in the introduced air A1 (saturated water vapor amount) to the target moisture amount (saturated water vapor amount), the processing unit 34 ensures that the amount of purified component P generated is within a predetermined range. Control it so that it becomes like this.

[0187] Next, we will explain the sequence of events in which the external space R is purified by the space purification device 5 (see Figure 11).

[0188] From the external space R, introduced air A1 is introduced through the first opening 10a of the housing 10 into an introduction-side air passage 11 located inside the housing 10. The introduced air A1 introduced into the introduction-side air passage 11 is introduced into a humidification unit 40a, which serves as a moisture content adjustment unit 40, via a blower unit 12. The introduced air A1 introduced into the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 of the humidification unit 40a becomes a bubble B and floats vertically upward through the liquid L1 due to buoyancy. In the process of the bubble B floating through the liquid L1, moisture is added to the bubble B-shaped introduced air A1 through gas-liquid contact between the bubble B and the liquid L1, and it is humidified from its moisture content before being introduced into the moisture content adjustment unit 40 (introduced moisture content), becoming introduced air A1 containing the target moisture content and released into the storage unit space 41a.

[0189] The humidified introduced air A1 released into the storage space 41a is introduced into the chemical holding section 20 via the introduction-side check valve 13, where it reacts with the chemical 21 to generate a purification component P corresponding to the target moisture content. As described in Embodiment 1, the purification component P is, for example, gaseous hypochlorous acid gas. The purified air A2 containing the purification component P generated in the chemical holding section 20 is released into the external space R via the discharge-side check valve 14, the discharge-side air passage 15, and the second opening 10b. In other words, the introduced air A1 that has flowed through the water storage section 41 is released into the external space R in a humidified state compared to before it flowed through the water storage section 41. The purified air A2 containing the released purification component P purifies the external space R.

[0190] Next, the adjustment of the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 using a humidifier 40a having a heating unit 42 will be explained using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit of the air purification device 5 according to Embodiment 5.

[0191] As the air purification device 5 starts its purification operation, the blower unit 12 begins to operate, and the introduced air A1 is introduced into the inlet-side air passage 11 (see Figure 11). In addition, as the blower unit 12 operates, the inlet-side check valve 13 and the discharge-side check valve also become connected, and the introduced air A1, which has been humidified by the moisture content adjustment unit 40 (humidification unit 40a) and contains the target moisture content, reacts with the chemical agent 21, and purified air A2 containing a desired predetermined amount (concentration) of purification component P is released into the outside space R via the discharge-side air passage 15.

[0192] As the air purification device 5 starts its purification operation, the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquires temperature and humidity information contained in the introduced air A1, and the control unit 30 determines the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 (saturated water vapor amount) based on this temperature and humidity information (step S31). If the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 (saturated water vapor amount) determined in step S31 is outside the predetermined range of the target moisture amount (saturated water vapor amount) (YES in step S32), the process proceeds to step S33.

[0193] Immediately after the start of operation of the air purification device 5, or after step S39 described later, the introduced air A1 is not heated by the heating unit 42 by heating the water storage unit 41 and the liquid L1 stored in the water storage unit 41 (NO in step S33). Therefore, the process proceeds to step S41, and the heating unit 42 starts heating the introduced air A1. The heating conditions at the start of heating in step S41 are preferably such that the amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor) identified in step S31 is within the range of the target moisture amount (saturated water vapor), that is, the amount of saturated water vapor that can be contained in the introduced air A1 is increased and the heating conditions are such that it is within the range of the target moisture amount (saturated water vapor).

[0194] From the second cycle onward (from step S36 to step S31) in the flowchart shown in Figure 12 If the process returns to step S33, and the introduced air A1 has already been heated by the heating unit 42 (YES in step S33), the process proceeds to step S34, and the heating conditions of the introduced air A1 by the heating unit 42 are changed. When changing the heating conditions of the heating unit 42, it is preferable to change the heating conditions so that the amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor) identified in step S31 is within the range of the target moisture amount (saturated water vapor), that is, to increase the amount of saturated water vapor that can be contained in the introduced air A1 and change the heating conditions so that it is within the range of the target moisture amount (saturated water vapor).

[0195] Next, if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed for the adjustment judgment time, which is the time that determines whether or not the air purification device 5 adjusts the amount of purification component P generated, then (YES in step S35) the process proceeds to step S36. Here, the predetermined time for the adjustment judgment time is, as mentioned above, for example, 5 minutes (see Embodiment 2), and can be set to any time by the user of the air purification device 5. In step S36, if the total operating time has not elapsed (NO in step S36), the process returns to step S31 to adjust the amount of purification component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S36), the process proceeds to step S42, and the purification operation of the air purification device 5 is stopped.

[0196] In step S35, if the predetermined time for adjustment judgment has not elapsed (NO in step S35), the process proceeds to step S37, and the heating unit 42 maintains the previous heating conditions. Specifically, if the introduced air A1 is being heated by the heating unit 42, the heating of the introduced air A1 is maintained at the heating conditions (heating temperature (set temperature)). In the following step S38, if the predetermined time for adjustment judgment has not elapsed (NO in step S38), the process returns to step S37. If the predetermined time for adjustment judgment has elapsed (YES in step S38), the process proceeds to step S36. If the total operating time of the air purification device 5 has not elapsed (NO in step S36), the process returns to step S31 to adjust the amount of purified component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S36), the process proceeds to step S42, and the purification operation of the air purification device 5 is stopped.

[0197] On the other hand, if the saturated water vapor amount of the introduced air A1 obtained in step S31 is within a predetermined range (NO in step S32), proceed to step S39. If the introduced air A1 is being heated by the heating unit 42 (YES in step S39), stop heating (step S40) and proceed to step S35. On the other hand, if the heating unit 42 has stopped heating the introduced air A1 (NO in step S39), proceed to step S35. In step S35, if the adjustment judgment time has not elapsed for a predetermined time (NO in step S35), proceed to step S37, and the heating unit 42 maintains the previous heating conditions. Specifically, if the heating of the introduced air A1 by the heating unit 42 has been stopped after step S39, maintain the state in which the heating of the introduced air A1 by the heating unit 42 has been stopped.

[0198] In the following step S38, if the adjustment decision time has not elapsed (NO in step S38), the process returns to step S37. If the adjustment decision time has elapsed (YES in step S38), the process proceeds to step S36. If the total operating time of the air purification device 5 has not elapsed (NO in step S36), the process returns to step S31 to adjust the amount of purified component P generated. On the other hand, if the total operating time has elapsed (YES in step S36), the process proceeds to step S42, and the purification operation of the air purification device 5 is stopped.

[0199] Next, the target moisture content after humidification is 23.0 g / m². 3 Assuming the temperature of the introduced air A1 is 15°C, we will explain each step in detail.

[0200] If the temperature of the introduced air A1 acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S in step S31 is 15°C, the amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor amount) determined based on this temperature information is 12.8 g / m³. 3 Therefore, the specified amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor amount) is less than the target amount of moisture, so the heating unit 42 Heating of the introduced air A1 is initiated by the heating unit 42. The introduced air A1 passes through the liquid L1 (water) stored in the water storage unit 41 and heated to 25°C, thereby heating the introduced air A1 to a temperature of 25°C and the target moisture content (saturated water vapor content) is 23.0 g / m³. 3 It increases to [value]. Furthermore, the introduced air A1 is heated and humidified by the liquid L1 (water) stored in the water reservoir 41, and the relative humidity becomes approximately 100%, so the absolute humidity of the introduced air A1 becomes the saturation water vapor amount, which is the target moisture content of 23.0 g / m³. 3 It is humidified.

[0201] Next, the target moisture content for humidification is 39.5 g / m². 3 Assuming the temperature of the introduced air A1 is 35°C, we will explain each step in detail.

[0202] If the temperature of the introduced air A1 acquired by the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S in step S31 is 35°C, the amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor amount) determined based on this temperature information is 39.5 g / m³. 3 Therefore, since the specified amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor amount) is greater than or equal to the target amount of moisture, heating by the heating unit 42 is not performed, and only humidification by the humidifying unit 40a is performed. The introduced air A1 is humidified by the liquid L1 (water) stored in the water storage unit 41, and the relative humidity becomes approximately 100%, so the absolute humidity (saturated water vapor amount) of the introduced air A1 is 39.5 g / m³, which is the target amount of moisture. 3 It is humidified.

[0203] In this embodiment, humidification by the humidifier 40a is performed based on the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1, and the control adjusts it to the target moisture content. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, if the air purification device 5 is placed in an environment (external space R) where temperature fluctuations are small and the temperature of the introduced air A1 can be predicted in advance, the introduced air A1 may be heated by the heating unit 42 of the humidifier 40a without measuring the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1. In other words, steps S31 to S34 and steps S39 to S41 may be omitted in the flowchart of Figure 12. More specifically, during the purification operation of the air purification device 5, the heating of the introduced air A1 by the heating unit 42 may be continued without stopping.

[0204] If heating is performed by the heating unit 42 without measuring the amount of moisture introduced, the expected temperature range of the introduced air A1 and the temperature required to include the target amount of moisture may be determined in advance through experiments, and the heating conditions of the heating unit 42 (heating temperature (set temperature)) may be set to the heating conditions required when the temperature of the introduced air A1 is at its lowest. If the temperature of the introduced air A1 is maintained within a predetermined range, even if the humidity of the introduced air A1 changes, the introduced air A1 that has flowed through the humidification unit 40a will have the desired target amount of moisture.

[0205] As a specific example, let's assume that the external space R is an air-conditioned room with a temperature between 20°C and 30°C. By setting the heating condition of the heating unit 42 to 40°C, the introduced air A1 is heated to 40°C by the heating unit 42, and the saturated water vapor content is 51.1 g / m³. 3 It is possible to humidify the air to the desired level without measuring the amount of moisture contained in the incoming air A1, that is, without the temperature and humidity acquisition unit S acquiring the temperature of the incoming air A1. As a result, a predetermined range of purification components P (e.g., hypochlorous acid gas) can be stably released.

[0206] In this embodiment, the humidification unit 40a of the moisture content adjustment unit 40 can be changed as appropriate, as long as it can adjust the moisture content of the air. For example, an ultrasonic humidifier may be used, in which an ultrasonic generator is installed in the liquid of the water storage unit and an ultrasonic humidifier capable of generating mist by ultrasonic vibrations is used. The amount of humidification of the ultrasonic humidifier can be adjusted by the operating intensity.

[0207] Furthermore, the entire volume of introduced air A1 does not necessarily have to pass through the moisture content adjustment unit 40. For example, two types of air passages may be provided, with one air passage (first air passage, not shown) connecting the blower unit 12 and the moisture content adjustment unit 40, and the other air passage (second air passage, not shown) connecting the blower unit 12 and the inlet-side check valve 13. Good. The second air passage may be directly connected from the air blower 12 to the inlet-side check valve 13, or it may be branched off from a part of the first air passage and connected to the inlet-side check valve 13. For example, if the amount of moisture introduced into the specified introduced air A1 is within the range of the target moisture amount, the first air passage may be closed and only the second air passage may be allowed to flow, thereby introducing the introduced air A1 to the drug holding section 20 without flowing through the moisture amount adjustment section 40.

[0208] In the above embodiment, the moisture content adjustment unit 40 was described as having a humidifying unit 40a, but it may also be equipped with a dehumidifying unit 40b (not shown) together with the humidifying unit 40a. If an upper limit is set in a predetermined range of the target moisture content, even if the saturated water vapor in the introduced air A1 exceeds the upper limit of the target moisture content, the temperature of the introduced air A1 can be cooled using the cooling unit (not shown) of the dehumidifying unit 40b to dehumidify it to the target moisture content within the predetermined range. Specifically, if the amount of introduced moisture contained in the introduced air A1 exceeds the upper limit of the target moisture content, there is a possibility that the purification component P will be released in excess of the desired amount. Therefore, by cooling the introduced air A1 to dehumidify it and reduce the amount of introduced moisture, the excessive release of the purification component P can be suppressed.

[0209] In addition to controlling humidification and dehumidification by the moisture content adjustment unit 40, this can also be combined with controlling the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12. For example, if the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 is less than the range of the target moisture content, the moisture content can be adjusted by humidifying the introduced air A1 with the moisture content adjustment unit 40. If the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 exceeds the range of the target moisture content, the airflow rate of the air blower unit 12 can be reduced to supply the target moisture content to the chemical agent 21, thereby stabilizing the amount of purification component P generated.

[0210] As described above, the following effects can be enjoyed with the space purification device according to Embodiment 5.

[0211] The air purification device 5 according to this embodiment adjusts the amount of purified component P generated by adjusting the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 introduced into the chemical holding unit 20 to a target moisture amount, so that the amount of purified component P generated falls within a predetermined range.

[0212] By having the above configuration, a gaseous purification component P, such as hypochlorous acid gas, is generated from the chemical holding unit 20. In other words, compared to spraying a liquid purification component such as hypochlorous acid water, the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 5 is reduced. Therefore, a space purification device 5 capable of reducing the humidification of the external space R of the space purification device 5 can be provided. Furthermore, since the amount of purification component P generated can be adjusted according to the amount of introduced moisture (saturated water vapor amount) based on the temperature of the external space R, it is possible to release a desired amount of purification component P within a predetermined range. Therefore, a space purification device 5 that can exhibit stable purification performance in the external space R can be provided.

[0213] Furthermore, the air purification device 5 according to this embodiment further includes a moisture content adjustment unit 40 having at least one of a humidifying unit 40a that adds moisture to the introduced air A1 and a dehumidifying unit 40b that removes moisture from the introduced air A1. The moisture content adjustment unit 40 adjusts the amount of purified components P generated by adjusting the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air A1 to a target moisture content.

[0214] By providing the above configuration, the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 introduced into the drug holding section can be adjusted more precisely. Specifically, even if the saturated water vapor amount changes due to a change in the temperature of the external space R (room), that is, even if the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 is insufficient or excessive compared to the target amount of moisture, the air purification device 5 can be provided that releases a predetermined desired range of purification components P by humidifying or dehumidifying the introduced air A1.

[0215] The air purification device 5 according to this embodiment includes a humidification unit 40a which is equipped with a water storage unit 41 for storing water. Introduced air A1 is humidified by being released as bubbles B into the water stored in the water storage unit 41, and the amount of purified components P generated is adjusted by supplying the introduced air A1 containing a target amount of water humidified in the water storage unit 41 to the chemical holding unit 20.

[0216] With the above configuration, as the bubble B floats in the liquid L1, moisture is added to the bubble-like introduced air A1 through gas-liquid contact between the bubble B and the liquid L1. Gas-liquid contact between the bubble B and the liquid L1 allows the bubble B to contain more moisture than gas-liquid contact between the liquid surface of the liquid L1 and the introduced air A1. In other words, with the above configuration, gas-liquid contact between the introduced air A1 and the liquid L1 (water) is further promoted, thereby increasing the humidification efficiency. Even if the saturated water vapor amount changes due to a change in the temperature of the external space R (room), that is, even if the amount of moisture contained in the introduced air A1 is insufficient or excessive compared to the target moisture amount, a space purification device 5 can be provided that can humidify the introduced air A1 more efficiently and release purification components P within a predetermined desired range.

[0217] The air purification device 5 according to this embodiment further includes a heating unit 42 in the moisture content adjustment unit 40 that heats the introduced air A1 to a temperature at which the introduced air A1 can contain a target amount of moisture.

[0218] By providing the above configuration, the amount of saturated water vapor in the introduced air A1 can be increased. Even under conditions where the temperature (air temperature) of the external space R (room) is low, heating the introduced air A1 can increase the amount of moisture that can be contained per unit of introduced air A1, i.e., the amount of saturated water vapor. Therefore, even if the temperature of the introduced air A1 is low and the amount of saturated water vapor is small, and it is not possible to contain the amount of moisture necessary to release the purification components P within a predetermined desired range, heating the introduced air A1 can increase the amount of saturated water vapor, and a space purification device can be provided that can release the purification components within a predetermined desired range.

[0219] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, a configuration may be made by combining two or more of the air purification devices according to Embodiments 1 to 5.

[0220] An overview of one aspect of this disclosure is as follows:

[0221] (Item 1) It comprises a drug-holding section that holds a solid or gel-like drug containing a water-soluble oxidizing agent, When moisture contained in the introduced air, which is introduced into the chemical holding section from the external space of the chemical holding section, reacts with the chemical, a purifying component is generated in the chemical holding section. The purified air containing the aforementioned purifying components is released into the external space, thereby purifying the external space. Air purification device.

[0222] (Item 2) The amount of the purifying component generated is adjusted based on the amount of water introduced, which is the amount of water contained in the introduced air introduced into the chemical holding unit, so that the amount of the purifying component generated falls within a predetermined range. The air purification device described in item 1.

[0223] (Item 3) The introduced air is introduced into the drug holding section, and the purified air is released into the external space. It is further equipped with a blower that blows air, The blowing unit adjusts the amount of the purifying component generated by adjusting the amount of introduced air introduced into the chemical holding unit based on the amount of introduced moisture. The air purification device described in item 2.

[0224] (Item 4) The drug holding portion further comprises an opening / closing section arranged on the exposed surface of the drug, which can change the area of ​​exposure of the drug to the introduced air by changing the opening ratio, The opening and closing section adjusts the amount of the purifying component generated by adjusting the opening ratio based on the amount of water introduced. The air purification device described in item 2.

[0225] (Item 5) The amount of the purifying component generated is adjusted by adjusting the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air introduced into the chemical holding unit to a target moisture amount, so that the amount of the purifying component generated falls within a predetermined range. The air purification device described in item 1.

[0226] (Item 6) The moisture content adjustment unit further comprises at least one of a humidifying unit that adds moisture to the introduced air and a dehumidifying unit that removes moisture from the introduced air. The moisture content adjustment unit adjusts the amount of the purification component generated by adjusting the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air to the target moisture content. The air purification device described in item 5.

[0227] (Item 7) The humidifying unit includes a water storage unit for storing water. The introduced air is humidified by being released as bubbles into the water stored in the water reservoir, and the introduced air containing the target amount of water humidified in the water reservoir is supplied to the chemical holding section to adjust the amount of the purifying component generated. The air purification device described in item 6.

[0228] (Item 8) The moisture content adjustment unit further includes a temperature adjustment unit that heats the introduced air to a temperature at which the introduced air can contain the target amount of moisture. A space purification device as described in item 6 or 7.

[0229] (Item 9) The water-soluble oxidizing agent is a chlorine-based oxidizing agent, and the purifying component is hypochlorous acid. The air purification device described in item 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0230] 1. Air purification device 2. Air purification device 3. Air purification device 4. Air purification device 5. Air purification device 10 cabinets 10a First opening 10b Second opening 10c interior space 10d First opening adjustment part 10e Second opening adjustment unit 11 Inlet-side air duct 12 Air blower unit 12a Introduction part 12b Fan 12c Discharge part 13 Inlet-side check valve 14 Discharge-side check valve 15 Discharge-side air duct 20 Agent holding unit 20a First agent holding unit 20b Second agent holding unit 21 Agent 21a First agent 21b Second agent 22 Inlet port 23 Outlet port 24 Flow path 24a First flow path 24b Second flow path 25 Opening / closing unit 25a First opening / closing unit 25b Second opening / closing unit 26 Connection part 30 Control unit 31 Input unit 32 Storage unit 33 Timing unit 34 Processing unit 35 Output unit 40 Moisture amount adjustment unit 40a Humidification unit 40b Dehumidification unit 41 Water storage part 41a Internal space of storage part 42 Heating unit A1 Introduced air A2 Purified air B Bubble L1 Liquid P Purification component R External space S Temperature and humidity acquisition unit S1 Step S2 Step S3 Step S4 Step S5 Step S6 Step Step S7 Step S8 Step S9 Step S10 Step S11 Step S12 Step S13 Step S14 Step S15 Step S16 Step S17 Step S18 Step S21 Step S22 Step S23 Step S24 Step S25 Step S26 Step S27 Step S28 Step S31 Step S32 Step S33 Step S34 Step S35 Step S36 Step S37 Step S38 Step S39 Step S40 Step S41 Step S42

Claims

1. It comprises a drug-holding section that holds a solid or gel-like drug containing a water-soluble oxidizing agent, When moisture contained in the introduced air, which is introduced into the chemical holding section from the external space of the chemical holding section, reacts with the chemical, a purifying component is generated in the chemical holding section. When the purified air containing the aforementioned purifying components is released into the external space, the external space is purified. The amount of the purifying component generated is adjusted based on the amount of water introduced, which is the amount of water contained in the introduced air introduced into the chemical holding unit, so that the amount of the purifying component generated falls within a predetermined range. Air purification device.

2. The system further comprises a blowing unit that introduces the introduced air into the drug holding unit and blows the purified air so that it is released into the external space. The blowing unit adjusts the amount of the purifying component generated by adjusting the amount of introduced air introduced into the chemical holding unit based on the amount of introduced moisture. The air purification device according to claim 1.

3. The drug holding portion further comprises an opening / closing section arranged on the exposed surface of the drug, which can change the area of ​​exposure of the drug to the introduced air by changing the opening ratio, The opening and closing section adjusts the amount of the purifying component generated by adjusting the opening ratio based on the amount of water introduced. The air purification device according to claim 1.

4. The amount of the purifying component generated is adjusted by adjusting the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air introduced into the chemical holding unit to a target moisture amount, so that the amount of the purifying component generated falls within a predetermined range. The air purification device according to claim 1.

5. The moisture content adjustment unit further comprises at least one of a humidifying unit that adds moisture to the introduced air and a dehumidifying unit that removes moisture from the introduced air. The moisture content adjustment unit adjusts the amount of the purification component generated by adjusting the amount of moisture introduced into the introduced air to the target moisture content. The air purification device according to claim 4.

6. The humidifying unit includes a water storage unit for storing water. The introduced air is humidified by being released as bubbles into the water stored in the water reservoir, and the introduced air containing the target amount of water humidified in the water reservoir is supplied to the chemical holding section to adjust the amount of the purifying component generated. The air purification device according to claim 5.

7. The humidifying unit further comprises a heating unit that heats the introduced air to a temperature at which the introduced air can contain the target amount of moisture. The air purification device according to claim 6.

8. The water-soluble oxidizing agent is a chlorine-based oxidizing agent, and the purifying component is hypochlorous acid. The air purification device according to claim 1.

Images