Sterilization agent supply device, nozzle, and sterilization method

Abstract

This sterilization agent supply device comprises: a supply unit including a discharge tube via which a sterilization agent is supplied downward in the vertical direction at a fixed position; and a transport unit including a transport body that moves a plurality of objects being sterilized along a transport path while holding the plurality of objects being sterilized by using the holding tool, and moving nozzles that are provided to the transport body in correspondence with each of the plurality of objects being sterilized, the moving nozzles moving in synchronization with the corresponding objects being sterilized.　The moving nozzles are each provided with a first flow path via which the sterilization agent is received on the upstream side and via which the sterilization agent is channeled toward the objects being sterilized on the downstream side. The first flow paths are each formed such that the opening area decreases continuously or intermittently from the upstream side to the downstream side

Description

Sterilizing agent supply device, nozzle, and sterilizing method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for dispensing a fluid sanitizer into, for example, a beverage container.

[0002] To sterilize beverage containers, such as plastic containers, a disinfectant or sterilizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide (H O ), is dispensed from a discharge tube or nozzle. ２ O ２ ) is supplied into the inside of the container. Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus having a sterilization unit that sprays a fluid, typically a sterilant in the form of a mist, into the inside of the container.

[0003] The sterilization unit of Patent Document 1 is provided with one or more discharge pipes at fixed positions around a rotating wheel for supplying a condensed mist of hydrogen peroxide, a sterilant, to a container. The discharge pipes are fixed in fixed positions so as to face the mouths of the containers that move along an arc-shaped conveying path passing directly below them.

[0004] JP 2015-157651 A

[0005] The sterilization unit of Patent Document 1 continues to discharge sterilant even when the discharge pipe and the mouth of the container are not directly facing each other and the phases of the discharge pipe and the mouth are not aligned. Therefore, the sterilant discharged while the phases of the discharge pipe and the mouth are not aligned is consumed without being used for sterilization. In view of the above, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a supply device that can reduce the amount of sterilant that is not used for sterilization.

[0006] The disinfectant supply device of the present disclosure comprises a supply unit including a discharge pipe that supplies disinfectant vertically downward at a fixed position, a conveying unit that includes: a conveying body that moves a plurality of objects to be sterilized along a conveying path while holding them with holders, and a moving nozzle that is provided on the conveying body corresponding to each of the plurality of objects to be sterilized and moves in synchronization with the corresponding object to be sterilized. The moving nozzle has a first flow path that receives disinfectant upstream and flows the disinfectant downstream toward the objects to be sterilized, and the first flow path has an opening area on the upstream side that is larger than the opening area on the downstream side.

[0007] A nozzle according to the present disclosure is disposed between a discharge pipe and an object to be sterilized, and directs a sterilant supplied from the discharge pipe toward the object to be sterilized. The nozzle comprises a first flow path that receives the sterilant upstream and directs the sterilant downstream toward the object to be sterilized, the first flow path having an opening area on the upstream side that is larger than the opening area on the downstream side.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a method for sterilizing an object by supplying a mist of sterilant discharged from a discharge pipe through a nozzle to the object. The nozzle used in this sterilization method includes a first flow path that receives the sterilant upstream and directs the sterilant downstream toward the object. The first flow path has an opening area on the upstream side that is larger than the opening area on the downstream side.

[0009] According to the movable nozzle of the supply device of the present disclosure, the first flow path through which the sterilant flows toward the object to be sterilized has an opening area on the upstream side that is larger than the opening area on the downstream side, which increases the time during which the phases of the first flow path discharge pipe and the first flow path are aligned upstream, thereby reducing the amount of sterilant unused for sterilization.

[0010] 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a supply device according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a supply device according to a first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a front cross-sectional view (PSD) and a side cross-sectional view (SSD) showing essential parts of a supply device according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a front cross-sectional view (PSD) and a side cross-sectional view (SSD) showing essential parts of a supply device according to the first embodiment, showing how one movable nozzle moves relative to one fixed nozzle; FIG. 5 is a front cross-sectional view and a side cross-sectional view (SSD) showing essential parts of a supply device according to the first embodiment, showing how one movable nozzle moves relative to one fixed nozzle; FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of a mobile nozzle according to the first embodiment; FIG. 7 is a plan view and a partial enlarged view of a mobile nozzle according to the first embodiment; FIG. 8 is a plan view of a mobile nozzle according to the first embodiment; FIG. 9 is a front cross-sectional view (PSD) and a side cross-sectional view (SSD) showing a mobile nozzle according to a second embodiment; FIG. 10 is a front cross-sectional view and a side cross-sectional view (SSD) showing a mobile nozzle according to the second embodiment, showing how one movable nozzle moves relative to one fixed nozzle; FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a mobile nozzle according to a second embodiment, showing how multiple mobile nozzles move relative to one fixed nozzle; FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modified example of a mobile nozzle according to the second embodiment; FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of a mobile nozzle according to the second embodiment, showing how one mobile nozzle moves relative to one fixed nozzle; and FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another modified example of a mobile nozzle according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of a guide vane.

[0011] The following describes embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments include a first embodiment and a second embodiment, and in both of these supply devices, a mist of sterilant is sprayed into each container PB while the containers PB are moved along an arc-shaped conveying path. Furthermore, in both supply devices, a plurality of moving nozzles 35 are provided that move in synchronization with the holder GR that holds the containers PB, thereby reducing the amount of sterilant unused for sterilization. The following describes the first and second embodiments in this order.

[0012] [First embodiment: see Figures 1 to 5] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the supply device 1 according to the first embodiment comprises a supply unit 10 that dispenses sterilant into a container PB at a predetermined position, and a conveying unit 30 that grips and conveys multiple containers PB along an arc-shaped conveying path. The supply unit 10, as an example, comprises a single discharge pipe 13, and the conveying unit 30 comprises a number of moving nozzles 35-1 corresponding to the number of containers PB to be conveyed. Except for the structure of the moving nozzles 35-1, the second embodiment also has the same configuration as the supply device 1.

[0013] [Supply unit 10: see Figures 1 to 3] The supply unit 10 includes a mist generator 11 that generates mist M, which is an atomized sterilant, a discharge pipe 13 that discharges the mist M generated by the mist generator 11 toward the container PB via a movable nozzle 35-1, and a regulator 15 that prevents the mist M discharged from the discharge pipe 13 from leaking out of the movable nozzle 35-1. The mist generator 11, the discharge pipe 13, and the regulator 15 are all fixed in position.

[0014] [Mist Generator 11: See Figures 1 and 2] As an example, the mist generator 11 can generate mist M by forming an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, a sterilant, into droplets and then heating the droplets to a temperature above its boiling point but below its non-decomposition temperature to vaporize them. This mist M is sprayed from the discharge pipe 13. Hydrogen peroxide droplets can be obtained, for example, by introducing an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide and compressed air into a two-fluid sprayer. Vaporization can be achieved by providing a heater, such as an electric heating wire, around the pipe through which the droplets of hydrogen peroxide flow, and heating the droplets of hydrogen peroxide injected into the pipe to the desired temperature. The vaporized hydrogen peroxide mist M is guided to the discharge pipe 13.

[0015] [Discharge Pipe 13: See FIG. 3] The discharge pipe 13 allows the mist M generated by the mist generator 11 to flow downward in the vertical direction V and discharge it toward the conveying unit 30. The discharge pipe 13 includes a pipe body 13A made of, for example, metal, a passage 13B for the mist M provided inside the pipe body 13A, and a discharge port 13C connected to the passage 13B and through which the mist M is discharged. The discharged mist M is sprayed as mist toward the opening of the mouth N of the bottle PB. The mist M generated by the mist generator 11 is discharged toward the conveying unit 30 through the passage 13B and the discharge port 13C. The passage 13B is, for example, circular to match the shape of the opening of the container PB, and its opening diameter D13 has a favorable relationship with an opening dimension W35 in the radial direction RD of the movable nozzle 35-1, which will be described later; this relationship will be discussed after describing the movable nozzle 35-1.

[0016] [Regulator 15: See Figures 2 and 3] In a preferred embodiment, the supply unit 10 includes a regulator 15 at the lower end of the discharge pipe 13. The regulator 15 is provided to prevent the mist M discharged from the discharge port 13C of the discharge pipe 13 from leaking out of the first flow path 35B of the moving nozzle 35-1. For this purpose, the regulator 15 has a flat portion that blocks the opening upstream US of the first flow path 35B. For example, the regulator 15 has a rectangular shape in plan view and is provided at the lower end of the discharge pipe 13 so as to be perpendicular to the axis C10 of the discharge pipe 13 (supply unit 10). The portion of the regulator 15 corresponding to the discharge port 13C penetrates in the direction of the axis C10. The regulator 15 is not limited to the illustrated shape. While the illustrated regulator 15 has a flat shape in side view, other shapes, such as a curved shape with both ends facing upward in the circumferential direction CD, can also be used. Furthermore, the shape in plan view is not limited to a rectangle, and shapes such as an oval or a polygon other than a rectangle can be used. The regulating body 15 is located at the lowest position in the vertical direction V among the components constituting the supply unit 10 disclosed in the embodiment, but a gap G is provided between the regulating body 15 and the conveying unit 30. Therefore, during operation of the supply device 1, the fixed position of the supplying unit 10 and the rotating conveying unit 30 do not come into contact with each other. For this purpose, several dimensions of the regulating body 15 are specified, as will be described later.

[0017] [Transport Unit 30; See Figures 1, 2, and 3] Next, the transport unit 30 will be described. The transport unit 30 sequentially receives a plurality of containers PB continuously transported from an upstream process using a corresponding holder GR, rotates while holding the containers, and transports them to a downstream process. Between transport and removal, mist M is supplied into the containers PB to sterilize them.

[0018] The conveying unit 30 includes a turntable 31 and a rotating electric machine 32 that rotates the turntable 31. The turntable 31 has a circular shape in a plan view. A plurality of holders GR, typically called grippers, that grip the mouths N of the containers PB are provided on the outer periphery of the turntable 31. The plurality of containers PB are held by the respective holders GR and moved along an arc-shaped conveying path MD as the turntable 31 is rotated by the rotating electric machine 32.

[0019] The turntable 31 is provided with a plurality of movable nozzles 35-1. The plurality of movable nozzles 35-1 are arranged in a line in the circumferential direction CD at intervals on the outer periphery of the turntable 31. The plurality of movable nozzles 35-1 are arranged at the same position in the radial direction RD. The plurality of movable nozzles 35-1 are provided corresponding to each of a plurality of holders GR, which are not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In other words, a movable nozzle 35-1 corresponds to each container PB held by the holder GR, and mist M is supplied to the container PB via the corresponding movable nozzle 35-1. As the turntable 31 rotates, the corresponding holder GR and movable nozzle 35-1 move synchronously while maintaining their relative positional relationship. Each movable nozzle 35-1 is attached to the turntable 31 in a detachable manner. 1 and 2, for example, the upper portion of each movable nozzle 35-1 is held by an appropriate means on the rotary table 31, and the lower portion protrudes downward from the rotary table 31. Note that only some of the multiple movable nozzles 35-1 are clearly shown in FIGS.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 3 , the movable nozzle 35-1 includes a nozzle housing 35A that forms its outer shell, a first flow path 35B provided inside the nozzle housing 35A, and an outlet 35C connected to the first flow path 35B. In the movable nozzle 35-1, the mist M flows from top to bottom in the figure, and the upstream (US) and downstream (DS) directions are defined according to this flow. The movable nozzle 35-1 moves together with the container PB in the circumferential direction CD as the turntable 31 rotates, but its position in the radial direction RD remains constant. A movement path MD for the container PB is formed along this circumferential direction CD. In this embodiment, the movable nozzle 35-1 moves along the counterclockwise movement path MD in accordance with the rotation direction of the turntable 31. Along this movement path MD, the movable nozzle 35-1 moves from rear to front in the direction of movement.

[0021] In the movable nozzle 35-1, as shown in FIG. 3 , the dimension of the first flow path 35B in the circumferential direction CD is larger than the dimension in the radial direction RD. In the first flow path 35B, the opening dimension L35in of the inlet 35in on the upstream (US) side is set larger than the opening dimension L35out of the outlet 35out on the downstream (DS) side in the circumferential direction CD. By enlarging the inlet 35in on the upstream (US) side in this manner, the distance or time over which the outlet 13C of the discharge pipe 13 passes above the first flow path 35B can be increased while the movable nozzle 35-1 moves in synchronization with the container PB. Therefore, even if mist M continues to be discharged from the outlet 13C, the amount of mist M not used for sterilizing the container PB can be significantly reduced. On the other hand, since it is necessary to supply mist M to the opening of the container PB on the downstream (DS) side, the opening dimension L35out of the outlet 35out is smaller than the opening dimension L35in, and is particularly preferably set to be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the opening of the container PB. Note that since the dimension W35 in the radial direction RD of the first flow path 35B is constant, the fact that the opening dimension L35in is larger than the opening dimension L35out is equivalent to the opening area of ​​the inlet 35in on the upstream (US) being larger than the opening area of ​​the outlet 35out on the downstream (DS).

[0022] Excluding the inlet 35in and the outlet 35out, the flow path 35B is formed by a pair of circumferential wall surfaces 35B1 and 35B2 and a pair of radial wall surfaces 35B3 and 35B4. The first flow path 35B is defined in the circumferential direction CD by the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the circumferential wall surface 35B2, and in the radial direction RD by the radial wall surface 35B3 and the radial wall surface 35B4. In the movement direction of the moving nozzle 35-1, the circumferential wall surface 35B1 is located forward of the circumferential wall surface 35B2. Note that whether or not the circumferential wall surface 35B1 is located forward is determined by observing the entire circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the entire circumferential wall surface 35B2. In addition, the circumferential wall surface 35B1 corresponds to the first circumferential wall surface in this disclosure, and the circumferential wall surface 35B2 corresponds to the second circumferential wall surface in this disclosure.

[0023] The circumferential wall surfaces 35B1, 35B2 have the following three requirements. By satisfying the following three requirements, the movable nozzle 35-1 can achieve the actions and effects described below in supplying the mist M to the container PB. Note that the inclinations (θ1, θ2) of the circumferential wall surfaces 35B1, 35B2 refer to the inclinations with respect to the vertical direction V when the movable nozzle 35-1 is attached to the supply device 1.

[0024] Requirement 1: In the movable nozzle 35-1, the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the circumferential wall surface 35B2 are inclined in the same direction in the circumferential direction CD. Requirement 2: The circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the circumferential wall surface 35B2 are inclined toward the front in the direction in which the movable nozzle 35-1 moves. Requirement 3: If the inclinations of the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the circumferential wall surface 35B2 with respect to the vertical direction V are θ1 and θ2, respectively, then θ1 > θ2, i.e., the inclination of the circumferential wall surface 35B2 located rearward in the direction of movement of the movable nozzle 35-1 is smaller than that of the circumferential wall surface 35B1.

[0025] Due to the presence of the circumferential wall surfaces 35B1, 35B2, the radial wall surfaces 35B3, 35B4 continuously decrease in size from the inlet 35 in side toward the outlet 35 out side. That is, the volume of the first flow passage 35B also continuously decreases from the inlet 35 in side toward the outlet 35 out side. However, for example, the opening dimension of the first flow passage 35B in the circumferential direction (CD) may be formed to intermittently decrease from the upstream US side toward the downstream DS side.

[0026] The discharge port 35C is connected to the outlet 35out of the first flow path 35B and has the same opening dimensions as the outlet 35out. The specific dimensions in the horizontal direction H and the vertical direction V are arbitrary and may be set appropriately depending on the specifications of the supply unit 10 and the transport unit 30, etc.

[0027] [Dimensional Relationship Between the Discharge Pipe 13, Regulator 15, and Movable Nozzle 35-1: See FIG. 3] First, the dimensional relationship between the discharge pipe 13 and the movable nozzle 35-1 will be described. The diameter (opening dimension) D13 of the discharge port 13C of the discharge pipe 13 is preferably smaller than the opening dimension W35 in the radial direction RD of the first flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-1. This is to reduce the amount of mist M discharged and sprayed from the discharge port 13C that leaks to the surrounding area without entering the first flow path 35B. Conversely, if the diameter D13 is larger than the opening dimension W35, a larger amount of mist M discharged from the discharge port 13C leaks in the radial direction RD without entering the first flow path 35B. Note that the opening dimension L35in on the inlet 35in side of the first flow path 35B is significantly larger than the diameter D13. The above relationships are listed below: D13<W35, D13<<L35in

[0028] Next, the dimensional relationship between the regulator 15 and the movable nozzle 35-1 will be described. The dimension L15 of the regulator 15 in the circumferential direction CD is preferably larger than the opening dimension L35in on the inlet 35in side of the first flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-1. Also, the dimension W15 of the regulator 15 in the radial direction RD is preferably larger than the opening dimension W35 on the inlet 35in side of the first flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-1. This makes it possible to prevent the mist M once supplied to the first flow path 35B from leaking out of the first flow path 35B. L15>L35in, W15>W35, L15>W15

[0029] [Basic Operation of the Moving Nozzle 35-1: See FIG. 4] Next, the basic operation of the moving nozzle 35-1 relative to the discharge pipe 13 when the supply device 1 sterilizes the container PB will be described, showing only one moving nozzle 35-1. Note that in FIG. 4, the time series is from top to bottom. That is, in FIG. 4, the moving nozzle 35-1 moves along the conveying path MD in the circumferential direction CD in the order of T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4.

[0030] The movable nozzle 35-1 moves (T0) in synchronization with the movement of the container PB relative to the discharge pipe 13, whose position is fixed, but at this point, the flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-1 has not yet reached the discharge port 13C of the discharge pipe 13. Therefore, the mist M discharged from the discharge port 13C is not supplied to the flow path 35B of this movable nozzle 35-1.

[0031] As the movable nozzle 35-1 continues to move, the first flow path 35B reaches a position directly below the discharge pipe 13 (T1). Therefore, the mist M is discharged from the discharge port 13C toward the first flow path 35B, and is supplied to the inside of the container PB through the first flow path 35B, the discharge port 35C, and the opening N. Furthermore, even if the movable nozzle 35-1 continues to move (T2, T3), the first flow path 35B remains directly below the discharge port 13C and is connected to the discharge pipe 13. Therefore, the mist M continues to be discharged from the discharge port 13C toward the first flow path 35B, and the sterilant continues to be supplied to the inside of the container PB through the first flow path 35B, the discharge port 35C, and the opening N.

[0032] As the moving nozzle 35-1 continues to move, the moving nozzle 35-1 moves away from directly below the discharge pipe 13 and is released from the discharge pipe 13 (T4), and the supply of the mist M to the container PB ends.

[0033] As described above, the mist M received by one movable nozzle 35-1 from the discharge pipe 13 is supplied to the container PB via the movable nozzle 35-1 while the first flow path 35B passes through the discharge pipe 13. If the mist M were supplied directly from the discharge pipe 13 to the mouth N of the container PB without going through the movable nozzle 35-1, the mist M would only be supplied to the inside of the container PB for the short period when the discharge pipe 13 and the container PB overlap. Therefore, if the mist M is continuously discharged from the discharge pipe 13, much of the mist M will not be used for sterilization.

[0034] In the supply operation of the mist M, the three requirements described above are satisfied, resulting in the following effects on the supply of the mist M. Effect of requirement 1 (inclining in the same direction): While the first flow path 35B passes through the discharge pipe 13 (T1 to T4 in FIG. 4), the mist M always collides only with the circumferential wall surface 35B1, and in the circumferential direction CD, the mist M after collision is aligned to flow toward the circumferential wall surface 35B2 (FIG. 3). Therefore, the direction of the mist M flowing out from the discharge port 35C is also the same, the jet of mist M toward the container PB is stabilized, and a stable scavenging flow is formed inside the container PB, improving scavenging efficiency.

[0035] Effect of requirement 2 (tilting in the direction of movement): Compared to tilting the nozzle 35-1 in the opposite direction to the direction of movement, the relative speed of the mist M colliding with the circumferential wall surface 35B1 can be reduced, so that the collision of the mist M with the circumferential wall surface 35B1 can be alleviated. Therefore, airflow fluctuations (vortex flow) when the mist M collides with the circumferential wall surface 35B2 are suppressed, and mixing of the mist M with the surrounding air in the first flow path 35B is suppressed. This reduces the amount of the disinfectant or sterilant, such as hydrogen peroxide (H ２ O ２ ) can be prevented from decreasing in concentration.

[0036] Effect of Requirement 3 (θ1 > θ2): By making the inclination θ1 greater than the inclination θ2 and bringing the circumferential wall surface 35B1 closer to the horizontal direction (H), the opening dimension L35out of the outlet 35C can be minimized. This allows the mist M to flow smoothly along the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and be discharged from the outlet 35C, thereby suppressing separation of the mist M flow and mixing with the surrounding air due to vortex flow. As a result, the concentration of the mist M discharged from the outlet 35C can be maintained. Note that the ability to minimize the opening dimension L35out of the outlet 35C by making the inclination θ1 greater than the inclination θ2 is based on the premise that the opening dimension L35in, the dimension of the first flow path 35B in the vertical direction V, and the inclination θ2 are the same.

[0037] [Operation by Multiple Moving Nozzles 35-1: See Figure 5] In the above, the operation of only one moving nozzle 35-1 relative to the discharge pipe 13 has been described, but in reality, multiple moving nozzles 35-1 are lined up in the circumferential direction CD, i.e., along the movement path MD, so the moving nozzles 35-1 are involved in succession relative to the discharge pipe 13. The following description will be made with reference to Figure 5. Note that Figure 5 also shows a time series from top to bottom. In Figure 5, N0, N1, etc. are symbols that identify the moving nozzles 35-1, and they pass through the discharge pipe 13 in the order N0, N1, etc.

[0038] As an example, let us assume that the movable nozzle 35-1 (N1) has reached a position directly below the discharge pipe 13, and the movable nozzle 35-1 (N0) and the movable nozzle 35-1 (N2) are arranged before and after it (T0). At this time, the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-1 (N1) is in the process of being supplied with mist M from the discharge pipe 13, while the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-1 (N0) has already finished supplying the mist M to its interior. The container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-1 (N2) is in the stage before the mist M is supplied.

[0039] As the movement of the movable nozzle 35-1 (N0) progresses (T1 to T3), the overlap between the movable nozzle 35-1 (N1) and the discharge pipe 13 ends (T2), the movable nozzle 35-1 (N2) and the discharge pipe 13 overlap (T2, T3), and the supply of mist M to the inside of the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-1 (N2) begins.

[0040] Thereafter, the same operation is repeated: when the supply of mist M to the inside of the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-1 (N2) is completed, the supply of mist M to the inside of the container PB corresponding to the next movable nozzle 35-1 (N3) is started and the supply is completed.

[0041] Here, if the opening dimension in the circumferential direction CD of the inlet 35in of each movable nozzle 35-1 is L35in and the distance between the inlets 35in, 35in of adjacent movable nozzles 35-1, 35-1 is D, then L35in > D. Assume that a total of N movable nozzles 35-1 are provided on the turntable 31. Then, during one rotation of the turntable 31, the total extension distance in the circumferential direction CD over which mist M is supplied to the first flow paths 35B of all movable nozzles 35-1 is L35in × N, while the total extension distance in the circumferential direction CD over which mist M is not supplied to the first flow paths 35B is D × N, so that there is a relationship of L35in × N > D × N. In other words, according to this embodiment, the distance or time over which the discharge pipe 13 and the movable nozzle 35-1 are involved is significantly longer, for example, two or more times, or even three or more times, than the distance or time over which the discharge pipe 13 and the distance between the movable nozzles 35-1, 35-1 are involved. This also applies to the moving nozzle 35-2 described later.

[0042] [Effects of the First Embodiment] <First Effect> According to the movable nozzle 35-1 of the first embodiment, mist M can be discharged into the corresponding container PB while the phases of the discharge pipe 13 and the inlet 35in of the movable nozzle 35 are aligned. Because the opening dimension L35in in the circumferential direction CD of the inlet 35in is several times larger than the opening dimension of the opening N of the container PB, the phases of the discharge pipe 13 and the inlet 35in are aligned for a long time. As a result, the amount of mist M that can be supplied into the container PB from a single discharge pipe 13 can be increased. For example, compared to supplying the same amount of mist M into the container PB directly from the discharge pipe 13, the use of the movable nozzle 35 not only reduces the number of discharge pipes 13 but also reduces the amount of sterilant used.

[0043] <Second Effect> By satisfying the three requirements described above, the movable nozzle 35-1 can improve scavenging efficiency and also suppress a decrease in the concentration of the sterilant, such as hydrogen peroxide, supplied to the container PB.

[0044] [Preferred Examples of the First Embodiment: Figures 6 to 9] Several preferred aspects of the movable nozzle 35-1 are described below. [Relationship between the Opening Dimension W35 and the Diameter D13: See Figure 6] The opening dimension W35, defined by the distance between the radial wall surface 35B3 and the radial wall surface 35B4 of the movable nozzle 35-1, is preferably made larger than the diameter D13 of the outlet 13C. This allows the mist M blown into the movable nozzle 35-1 to flow into the interior without being blocked by the upper surface of the movable nozzle 35-1, thereby reducing the amount of sterilant consumed. Because the mist M spreads as it leaves the outlet 13C, it is more preferable to make the opening dimension W35 larger than the spread of the mist M.

[0045] [Inclination θ2, θ1: See FIG. 7 ] Next, regarding the inclinations θ1 and θ2 of the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the circumferential wall surface 35B2, θ1 is set so that θ1 > θ2, and θ2 is preferably set to 20° or more, more preferably 30° or more, from the vertical direction V. Because the Coanda effect acts between the mist M flowing as a jet and the circumferential wall surface 35B2, a small inclination θ2 causes the mist M to adhere to and stagnate on the circumferential wall surface 35B2. This changes the blowing direction of the mist M from the outlet hole 35C, thereby reducing the effect of Requirement 1 described above. The Coanda effect refers to the effect in which a separation vortex is formed between the jet and the wall surface, reducing static pressure and attracting the jet to the wall surface. In contrast, by setting θ2 to 20° or more, the straightness of the mist M flowing as a jet surpasses the Coanda effect, allowing the mist M to collide with the circumferential wall surface 35B1, thereby reliably achieving the effect of Requirement 1.

[0046] On the other hand, if θ2 becomes too large, the area of ​​the circumferential wall surface 35B2 that covers the circumferential wall surface 35B1 increases, and the area of ​​the circumferential wall surface 35B1 that receives the mist M decreases. Therefore, θ2 is preferably 50° or less, and more preferably 40° or less.

[0047] Furthermore, in order to increase the dimension of the circumferential direction CD of the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and receive the mist M for a longer period of time, θ1 is preferably 55° or more, and more preferably 65° or more. On the other hand, if θ1 becomes too large and the circumferential wall surface 35B1 approaches the horizontal direction H, it becomes difficult to direct the received mist M toward the discharge hole 35C, so θ1 is preferably 85° or less, and more preferably 75° or less.

[0048] [Reduction of opening dimension W35: see FIG. 8] The opening dimension W35 can be constant from the inlet 35in to the outlet 35out, but can be reduced from the inlet 35in to the outlet 35out. In other words, if the opening dimension at the inlet 35in is W35in and the opening dimension at the outlet 35out is W35out, it is preferable that the following be satisfied. The reduction from the opening dimension W35in to the opening dimension W35out may be continuous or stepwise. W35in ≧ W35out

[0049] By satisfying the above formula for the opening dimension W35, it is possible to prevent the flow of mist M from becoming turbulent and fluctuating. This prevents the mist M from mixing with the air in the first flow path 35B inside the moving nozzle 35-1, allowing a high concentration of mist M to be blown out from the discharge hole 35C. In addition, since it is possible to prevent the jet of mist M from slowing down due to the flow of mist M widening, it is possible to minimize the time it takes for the mist M to reach the discharge hole 35C. In this case, it is preferable to satisfy the following formula: W35in ≧ D13

[0050] [Curvature of Circumferential Wall Surface 35B1 and Circumferential Wall Surface 35B2: See FIG. 9] Preferably, the circumferential wall surface 35B1 and the circumferential wall surface 35B2 are provided with a curvature (k35). By making this curvature (k35) the same as the curvature (k31) of the turntable 31 (k35 = k31), the discharge port 13C can move to the same position in the radial direction RD at the inlet 35in of the movable nozzle 35-1. As a result, even if the movable nozzle 35-1 moves in the circumferential direction CD, the position of the discharge port 13C in the radial direction RD relative to the inlet 35in of the mist M is kept constant, thereby stabilizing the path along which the mist M flows in the first flow path 35B and stabilizing the flow direction of the mist M flowing out of the discharge port 35C. Therefore, the mist M is blown stably into the container PB arranged close to the discharge hole 35C, and a stable scavenging flow is formed inside the container PB, thereby improving scavenging efficiency.

[0051] [Second embodiment: FIGS. 10 to 16] Next, a mobile nozzle 35-2 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 16. The mobile nozzle 35-2 according to the second embodiment is the same as the mobile nozzle 35-1 according to the first embodiment in that the opening area on the upstream side of the first flow path 35B is larger than the opening area on the downstream side, but the inclination direction of the circumferential wall surface 35B6 corresponding to the circumferential wall surface 35B2 is different. However, the first effect of the mobile nozzle 35-1 can be achieved. The mobile nozzle 35-2 will be described below. Note that descriptions of parts common to the mobile nozzle 35-1 may be omitted.

[0052] [Structure of the movable nozzle 35-2: See Figure 10] In the movable nozzle 35-2, the circumferential wall surfaces 35B5 and 35B6 are symmetrical with respect to the central axis C30 and are formed of planes at angles θ11 and θ21 with respect to the axis C10. Therefore, in the circumferential direction CD, the circumferential wall surfaces 35B5 and 35B6 of the flow passage 35B are symmetrical with respect to the central axis C30, and the circumferential wall surfaces 35B5 and 35B6 are inclined in different directions. However, as shown in Figure 15 VE.2 (described later), it is permitted for the angle θ11 to be different from the angle θ21. The opening dimension W35 of the circumferential wall surfaces 35B5 and 35B6 when viewed from the side is constant and coincides with the opening dimension L35out of the outlet 35out on the downstream (DS) side. Due to the presence of the circumferential wall surfaces 35B5, 35B6, the radial wall surfaces 35B7, 35B8 continuously decrease in size from the inlet 35in side toward the outlet 35out side. In other words, the volume of the flow path 35B also continuously decreases from the inlet 35in side toward the outlet 35out side.

[0053] [Dimensional Relationship Between the Discharge Pipe 13, Regulator 15, and Movable Nozzle 35-2: See FIG. 10] First, the dimensional relationship between the discharge pipe 13 and the movable nozzle 35-2 will be explained. The diameter (opening dimension) D13 of the discharge port 13C of the discharge pipe 13 is preferably smaller than the opening dimension W35 in the radial direction RD of the flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-2. This is to reduce the amount of mist M discharged and sprayed from the discharge port 13C that leaks to the surrounding area without entering the flow path 35B. Conversely, if the diameter D13 is larger than the opening dimension W35, a larger amount of mist M discharged from the discharge port 13C leaks in the radial direction RD without entering the flow path 35B. Note that the opening dimension L35in on the inlet 35in side of the flow path 35B is significantly larger than the diameter D13. The above relationships are listed below. D13<W35, D13<<L35in

[0054] Next, the dimensional relationship between the regulator 15 and the movable nozzle 35-2 will be described. The dimension L15 of the regulator 15 in the circumferential direction CD is preferably larger than the opening dimension L35in on the inlet 35in side of the flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-2. Also, the dimension W15 of the regulator 15 in the radial direction RD is preferably larger than the opening dimension W35 on the inlet 35in side of the flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-2. This makes it possible to prevent the mist M once supplied to the flow path 35B from leaking out of the flow path 35B. L15>L35in, W15>W35, L15>W15

[0055] [Basic Operation of the Moving Nozzle 35-2: See FIG. 11] Next, the basic operation of the moving nozzle 35-2 relative to the discharge pipe 13 when the supply device 1 sterilizes the container PB will be described, showing only one moving nozzle 35-2. Note that in FIG. 11, the time series is from top to bottom. That is, in FIG. 11, the moving nozzle 35-2 moves along the conveying path MD in the circumferential direction CD in the order of T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4.

[0056] The movable nozzle 35-2 moves (T0) in synchronization with the movement of the container PB relative to the fixed position of the discharge pipe 13, but at this point, the flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-2 has not yet reached the discharge port 13C of the discharge pipe 13. Therefore, the mist M discharged from the discharge port 13C is not supplied to the flow path 35B of the movable nozzle 35-2.

[0057] As the movable nozzle 35-2 continues to move, the flow path 35B reaches a position directly below the discharge pipe 13 (T1). Therefore, mist M is discharged from the discharge port 13C toward the flow path 35B, and is supplied to the interior of the container PB through the flow path 35B, the discharge port 35C, and the opening N. Even if the movable nozzle 35-2 continues to move (T2, T3), the flow path 35B remains directly below the discharge port 13C and is connected to the discharge pipe 13. Therefore, mist M is discharged from the discharge port 13C toward the flow path 35B, and the sterilant continues to be supplied to the interior of the container PB through the flow path 35B, the discharge port 35C, and the opening N. The mist M from the movable nozzle 35-2 is received by the circumferential wall surface 35B5 in the first half (T1 to T2), but by the circumferential wall surface 35B6 in the second half (T2 to T3). In the first half, the mist M that collides with the circumferential wall surface 35B5 changes its flow toward the rear in the direction of movement of the movable nozzle 35-2, and in the second half, the mist M that collides with the circumferential wall surface 35B6 changes its flow toward the front in the direction of movement of the movable nozzle 35-2.

[0058] As the moving nozzle 35-2 continues to move, the moving nozzle 35-2 moves away from directly below the discharge pipe 13 and is released from the discharge pipe 13 (T4), and the supply of the mist M to the container PB ends.

[0059] As described above, the mist M received by one movable nozzle 35-2 from the discharge pipe 13 is supplied to the container PB via the movable nozzle 35-2 in the circumferential direction CD while the flow path 35B passes through the discharge pipe 13. If the mist M were supplied directly from the discharge pipe 13 to the mouth N of the container PB without going through the movable nozzle 35-2, the mist M would only be supplied to the inside of the container PB for the short period when the discharge pipe 13 and the container PB overlap. Therefore, if the mist M is continuously discharged from the discharge pipe 13, much of the mist M will not be used for sterilization.

[0060] As can be seen from FIG. 11, the mist M in the moving nozzle 35-2 is received by the circumferential wall surface 35B5 in the first half, but by the circumferential wall surface 35B6 in the second half.

[0061] [Operation by Multiple Moving Nozzles 35-2: See FIG. 12] In the above, the operation of only one moving nozzle 35-2 relative to the discharge pipe 13 has been described, but in reality, multiple moving nozzles 35-2 are lined up in the circumferential direction CD, i.e., along the conveying path MD, so the moving nozzles 35-2 are involved in succession relative to the discharge pipe 13. The following description will be made with reference to FIG. 12. Note that FIG. 12 also shows a time series from top to bottom. In addition, in FIG. 12, N0, N1, etc. are symbols that identify the moving nozzles 35-2, and they pass through the discharge pipe 13 in the order N0, N1, etc.

[0062] As an example, let us assume that the movable nozzle 35-2 (N1) has reached a position directly below the discharge pipe 13, and the movable nozzles 35-2 (N0) and 35-2 (N2) are arranged before and after it (T0). At this time, the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-2 (N1) is in the process of being supplied with mist M from the discharge pipe 13, while the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-2 (N0) has already finished supplying the mist M to its interior. The container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-2 (N2) is in the stage before the mist M is supplied.

[0063] As the movement of the movable nozzle 35-2 (N0) progresses (T1 to T3), the overlap between the movable nozzle 35-2 (N1) and the discharge pipe 13 ends (T2), the movable nozzle 35-2 (N2) and the discharge pipe 13 overlap (T2, T3), and the supply of mist M into the inside of the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-2 (N2) begins.

[0064] Thereafter, the same operation is repeated: when the supply of mist M to the inside of the container PB corresponding to the movable nozzle 35-2 (N2) is completed, the supply of mist M to the inside of the container PB corresponding to the next movable nozzle 35-2 (N3) is started and the supply is completed.

[0065] [Configuration of guide vanes 37: see FIG. 13] Next, we will explain the moving nozzle 35-3, which is equipped with a pair of guide vanes 37 in the first flow path 35B. Except for the guide vanes 37, the moving nozzle 35-3 has the same configuration as the moving nozzle 35-2. The pair of guide vanes 37 are provided for the following purposes: The pair of guide vanes 37, 37 suppress a decrease in the amount of mist M as sterilant supplied to the container PB. The mist M discharged from the discharge pipe 13 forms a jet in the first flow path 35B, and this jet draws in the surrounding air inside the first flow path 35B (bottom row of FIG. 14). While the mist M has a temperature of, for example, 150°C or higher, the temperature of the surrounding air is significantly lower than the temperature of the mist M. Therefore, the temperature of the mist M that has entrained the air drops, and part of the mist M condenses and remains inside the movable nozzle 35-2 without being supplied to the container PB, thereby reducing the amount of mist M supplied to the container PB. Therefore, in the movable nozzle 35-3, a pair of guide vanes 37, 37 are provided to suppress the entrainment of air into the mist M.

[0066] The movable nozzle 35-3 includes a pair of guide vanes 37, 37 inside the first flow passage 35B. The guide vanes 37, 37 are arranged in a tapered shape in the circumferential direction CD, such that the distance D37out on the outlet 35out side is narrower than the distance D37in on the upstream (US) side. In other words, the guide vanes 37, 37 preferably have a second flow passage 37B therein that tapers in the vertical direction V. The pair of guide vanes 37, 37 are continuous throughout the entire first flow passage 35B in the radial direction RD. In other words, the dimension W37 of the guide vane 37 in the radial direction RD is equal to the opening dimension W35 of the movable nozzle 35-3 in the radial direction RD. Thus, the second flow passage 37B is formed inside the first flow passage 35B in a region surrounded by the pair of guide vanes 37, 37 and the pair of radial wall surfaces 35B7, 35B8. The left side of the second flow path 37B in the drawing is referred to as the 1-2 flow path 35BL, and the right side of the drawing is referred to as the 1-1 flow path 35BR. The mist M ejected from the moving nozzle 35-3 flows in this order through the 1-2 flow path 35BL, the second flow path 37B, and the 1-1 flow path 35BR, and is supplied to the container PB.

[0067] According to the study by the present inventors, the entrainment of surrounding air is most noticeable at the portion where the axis C10 of the discharge pipe 13 coincides with the axis C30 of the movable nozzle 35. Therefore, in one preferred embodiment, the pair of guide vanes 37, 37 are arranged at positions that are line-symmetrical with respect to the axis C30.

[0068] The pair of guide vanes 37, 37 are preferably arranged so that their upper ends are at the same position in the vertical direction V as the inlet 35 in. This position where the upper ends of the guide vanes 37, 37 are arranged is the uppermost position of the first flow passage 35B, and therefore, the effect of preventing air from being drawn in from at least the inside of the first flow passage 35B (35BL, 35BR) can be maximized. The pair of guide vanes 37, 37 preferably have their lower ends positioned below half the position in the vertical direction V of the first flow passage 35B.

[0069] If the distance between the pair of guide vanes 37, 37 is too wide, air may be drawn into the second flow path 37B, and if the distance is too narrow, it may hinder the smooth flow of the mist M. Therefore, the specific distance between the guide vanes 37, 37 can be determined taking these factors into consideration.

[0070] [Behavior of mist M from movable nozzle 35-3: See Figure 14] The situation in which mist M is supplied to the movable nozzle 35-3 will be described with reference to Figure 14. When the movable nozzle 35-3 has reached the discharge pipe 13 but the guide vanes 37, 37 have not yet reached the discharge pipe 13 (T0), the mist M discharged from the discharge pipe 13 flows through the 1-1 flow path 35BR and is supplied to the container PB via the discharge port 35C. At this time, because the area around the mist M in the 1-1 flow path 35BR is relatively narrow, little air is entrained in the mist M. The same is true for the 1-2 flow path 35BL.

[0071] When the guide vanes 37, 37 reach the discharge pipe 13 (T1), the discharged mist M is supplied to the container PB through the second flow path 37B between the guide vanes 37, 37. At this position where the axis C10 of the discharge pipe 13 and the axis C30 of the movable nozzle 35-3 coincide, the mist M is most likely to be entrained by surrounding air, but the guide vanes 37, 37 can suppress this air entrainment. Therefore, the temperature drop of the mist M passing through the second flow path 37B is also suppressed, and the amount of mist M supplied to the container PB can be prevented from decreasing.

[0072] As the movement of the movable nozzle 35-3 progresses further, the mist M is supplied from the second flow path 37B to the first-second flow path 35BL. In the first-second flow path 35BL, the amount of air entrained in the mist M is reduced.

[0073] [Effects of the second embodiment] The movable nozzle 35-3 according to the second embodiment is equipped with guide vanes 37, 37, which reduces the amount of mist M that entrains surrounding air, thereby preventing the amount of mist M supplied to the inside of the container PB from decreasing due to condensation caused by a drop in the temperature of the mist M.

[0074] [Modifications: See Figures 15 and 16] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the configurations described in the embodiments can be selected or modified as appropriate. Figure 15 shows six modifications (VE.1 to VE.6) of the movable nozzle. The following description focuses on the differences from the movable nozzle 35-2. In Figure 15, the outlet 35C of the movable nozzle 35-2 is omitted, and the outlet 35out functions as the outlet 35C. While the circumferential wall surfaces 35B5 and 35B6 of the movable nozzle 35-2 are symmetrical about the axis C30, the circumferential wall surfaces 35B1 and 35B2 of the movable nozzle 35-4 are asymmetrical. Considering that the movable nozzle 35-4 moves at high speed, it is conceivable that the circumferential wall surfaces 35B1 and 35B2 will be asymmetrical.

[0075] The circumferential wall surfaces 35B1 and 35B2 of the mobile nozzle 35-2 are each composed of a flat surface, but as with the mobile nozzles 35-6 and 35-7, the circumferential wall surfaces 35B1 and 35B2 may be partially bent. The bend in the mobile nozzle 35-6 is concave, while the bend in the mobile nozzle 35-7 is convex. Furthermore, as with the mobile nozzles 35-8 and 35-9, the circumferential wall surfaces 35B1 and 35B2 may be partially or entirely curved.

[0076] Figure 16 shows three modified examples (VE.7 to VE.10) of the guide vanes. Each guide vane 37, 37 does not have to be configured with a flat surface as a whole, but can also have a recess in the middle. Also, multiple guide vanes, specifically two guide vanes 37A, 37B, can be provided on one side. Furthermore, each guide vane 37, 37 can also be configured with a curved surface. Furthermore, the guide vanes 37, 37 can also be provided in an asymmetrical position with respect to the axis indicated by the dashed dotted line.

[0077] [Notes] [1] A disinfectant supply device (1) comprising: a supply unit (10) including a discharge pipe (13) that supplies disinfectant vertically (V) downward at a fixed position; a conveying unit (30) that includes: a conveying body (31) that moves a plurality of objects to be sterilized (PB) along a conveying path while holding them with holders (GR); and mobile nozzles (35-1) that are provided on the conveying body (31) corresponding to each of the plurality of holders (GR) and move in synchronization with the corresponding holders (GR), wherein the mobile nozzle (35-1) receives disinfectant at its upstream (US) side and has a first flow path (35B) downstream (DS) through which the disinfectant flows toward the objects to be sterilized (PB), and the first flow path (35B) has an opening area on the upstream (US) side that is larger than an opening area on the downstream (DS) side.

[0078] [2] The disinfectant supply device (1) of [1], wherein the transport body (31) comprises: a rotary table (31) that is rotationally driven by a drive source; and a plurality of holders (GR) that are provided along a transport path that continues in the circumferential direction (CD) of the rotary table (31), and the plurality of moving nozzles (35-1) correspond to the plurality of holders (GR), respectively, and are detachably attached to the rotary table (31) at the same positions in the radial direction (RD) of the rotary table (31) and aligned in the circumferential direction (CD).

[0079] [3] Or the disinfectant supply device (1) described in [2], wherein in the first flow path (35B), the opening size in the circumferential direction (CD) is formed to continuously or intermittently decrease from the upstream (US) side toward the downstream (DS) side, and the opening size in the radial direction (RD) is constant.

[0080] [4] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to [2], wherein the dimension in the circumferential direction (CD) of the first flow path (35B) is greater than the dimension in the radial direction (RD).

[0081] [5] The disinfectant supply device (1) described in [2], wherein the opening dimension (L35in) of the first flow path (35B) in the circumferential direction (CD) on the upstream (US) side is larger than the dimension (D) of the interval between adjacent first flow paths (35B).

[0082] [6] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to [5], wherein the first flow path (35B) has a symmetrical or asymmetrical shape in a circumferential direction (CD) with respect to an axis (C30) parallel to a vertical direction (V) of the moving nozzle (35-1).

[0083] [7] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to [6], wherein the moving nozzle (35-1) has a first circumferential wall surface (35B1) and a second circumferential wall surface (35B2) that divide the first flow path (35B) in the circumferential direction, and the first circumferential wall surface (35B1) and the second circumferential wall surface (35B2) are inclined in the same direction in the circumferential direction (CD).

[0084] [8] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to [7], wherein the first circumferential wall surface (35B1) and the second circumferential wall surface (35B2) are inclined toward the front in the moving direction of the moving nozzle.

[0085] [9] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to [8], wherein the second circumferential wall surface (35B2) is disposed further rearward in the moving direction of the moving nozzle than the first circumferential wall surface (35B1), and when the inclinations of the first circumferential wall surface (35B1) and the second circumferential wall surface (35B2) with respect to the vertical direction (V) are θ1 and θ2, respectively, θ1 > θ2 holds.

[0086]

[10] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to [9], wherein the moving nozzle (35-1) has a second flow path (37B) inside the first flow path (35B), and the second flow path (37B) is partitioned from the first flow path (35B) by a pair of guide vanes (37, 37) spaced apart in the circumferential direction (CD).

[0087]

[11] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to [9], wherein the pair of guide vanes (37, 37) are arranged at symmetrical positions with respect to an axis (C30) parallel to the vertical direction (V) of the moving nozzle (35-1), and the distance between the guide vanes narrows from the upstream (US) to the downstream (DS).

[0088]

[12] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to

[11] , wherein a gap is preferably provided in the vertical direction (V) between the supply part (10) and the moving nozzle (35-1).

[0089]

[13] The disinfectant supply device (1) according to any one of [2] to

[12] , wherein the supply section (10) is preferably provided with a regulator (15) having a flat portion that closes an opening upstream (US) of the first flow path (35B).

[0090]

[14] A nozzle (35) provided between a discharge pipe (13) and an object to be sterilized (PB), for flowing a sterilant supplied from the discharge pipe (13) toward the object to be sterilized, the nozzle (35) comprising a first flow path (35B) for receiving the sterilant at an upstream (US) side and for flowing the sterilant toward the object to be sterilized (PB) at a downstream (DS) side, the first flow path (35B) having an opening area on the upstream (US) side larger than an opening area on the downstream (DS) side.

[0091]

[15] The nozzle according to

[14] , wherein the movable nozzle (nozzle 35-1) has a first circumferential wall surface (35B1) and a second circumferential wall surface (35B2) that divide the first flow path in the first direction, and the first circumferential wall surface (35B1) and the second circumferential wall surface (35B2) are inclined in the same direction in the first direction.

[0092]

[16] A method for sterilizing an object to be sterilized (PB) by supplying a mist of sterilant discharged from a discharge pipe (13) to the object to be sterilized (PB) via a nozzle (35), wherein the nozzle (35) has a first flow path (35B) that receives the sterilant upstream (US) and directs the sterilant downstream (DS) toward the object to be sterilized (PB), and the opening area of ​​the first flow path (35B) on the upstream (US) side is larger than the opening area on the downstream (DS) side.

[0093]

[17] The sterilization method according to

[16] , wherein the object to be sterilized (PB) is a container filled with a beverage.

[0094] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Supply device 10 Supply section 11 Mist generator 13 Discharge pipe 13A Pipe body 13B Passage 13C Discharge port 15 Regulator 30 Conveying section 31 Rotary table 32 Rotating electric machine 35-1, 35-2, 35-3, 35-4, 35-5, 35-6, 35-7, 35-8 Moving nozzle 35A Nozzle housing 35B First flow path 35out Outlet 35in Inlet 35BL 1-2 flow path 35BR 1-1 flow path 35B1, 35B2, 35B5, 35B6 Circumferential wall surface 35B3, 35B4, 35B7, 35B8 Radial wall surface 35C Discharge port 37 Guide vane 37B Second flow path C10, C30 Axis G Gap M Mist PB Container N Mouth RD Radial direction CD Circumferential direction MD Travel path V Vertical direction H Horizontal direction

Claims

1. A supply unit including a single discharge pipe that supplies disinfectant in a vertical downward direction at a fixed position, A conveying unit comprising a conveying body that moves along a transport path while holding multiple objects to be sterilized by holders, and a plurality of moving nozzles provided on the conveying body corresponding to each of the multiple holders and moving in synchronization with the corresponding holder, The aforementioned movable nozzle is The device comprises a first channel through which the disinfectant is received upstream and flows downstream toward the object to be disinfected, The first channel is, The opening area on the upstream side is larger than the opening area on the downstream side. The opening area of ​​the discharge hole for the disinfectant in the discharge pipe is A disinfectant supply device having an opening area smaller than the upstream side of the first flow path.

2. The transporter body, A rotary table driven by a power source, The system comprises a plurality of holders arranged in accordance with the transport path that is connected in the circumferential direction of the rotating table, The multiple movable nozzles correspond to each of the multiple holders and are detachably mounted on the rotary table in the same radial position on the rotary table, aligned in the circumferential direction. A disinfectant supply device according to claim 1.

3. In the first channel, From the upstream side toward the downstream side, The circumferential opening dimension decreases continuously or intermittently, The aforementioned radial opening dimension is constant or decreases. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 2.

4. In the first channel, The circumferential dimension is larger than the radial dimension. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 2.

5. The first channel is, The circumferential opening dimension on the upstream side is larger than the distance between adjacent first flow channels. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 2.

6. The first channel is, With respect to the axis parallel to the vertical direction of the moving nozzle, the shape is symmetrical or asymmetrical in the circumferential direction. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 2.

7. The aforementioned movable nozzle is The first flow path comprises a first circumferential wall surface and a second circumferential wall surface that partition the first flow path in the circumferential direction, The first circumferential wall surface and the second circumferential wall surface are inclined in the same direction in the circumferential direction. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 2.

8. The first circumferential wall surface and the second circumferential wall surface are inclined toward the front in the direction of movement of the moving nozzle. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 7.

9. The second circumferential wall surface is positioned behind the first circumferential wall surface in the direction of movement of the moving nozzle, If the inclinations of the first circumferential wall surface and the second circumferential wall surface with respect to the vertical are θ1 and θ2, then θ1 > θ2 holds true. A disinfectant supply device according to claim 7 or claim 8.

10. The aforementioned movable nozzle is The first flow channel is provided with a second flow channel inside, The second channel is separated from the first channel by a pair of guide vanes arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The disinfectant supply device according to claim 2.

11. The pair of guide vanes are The moving nozzles are positioned symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to an axis parallel to the vertical direction of the moving nozzle, and the spacing between them narrows from upstream to downstream. A disinfectant supply device according to claim 10.

12. A vertical gap is provided between the supply unit and the moving nozzle. A disinfectant supply device according to claim 1.

13. The supply unit includes: The disinfectant supply device according to claim 1, further comprising a restricting body having a flat portion that closes the opening upstream of the first flow path.

14. A movable nozzle provided between a discharge pipe and an object to be sterilized, which directs the disinfectant supplied from the discharge pipe toward the object to be sterilized, The aforementioned movable nozzle is The device comprises a first channel that receives the disinfectant upstream and flows the disinfectant downstream toward the object to be disinfected, The first channel is, The opening area on the upstream side is larger than the opening area on the downstream side. A movable nozzle wherein the opening area of ​​the discharge port of the discharge pipe is smaller than the opening area on the upstream side of the first flow path.

15. The aforementioned movable nozzle is The first flow path comprises a first circumferential wall surface and a second circumferential wall surface that partition the first flow path in a first direction, The first circumferential wall surface and the second circumferential wall surface are inclined in the same direction in the first direction. The movable nozzle according to claim 14.

16. A method for sterilizing an object to be sterilized by supplying a mist-like disinfectant discharged from a fixed-position discharge pipe to a plurality of objects to be sterilized, via a plurality of movable nozzles, each of which corresponds to a plurality of movable nozzles, Multiple of the aforementioned movable nozzles and multiple objects to be sterilized pass sequentially directly below the discharge pipe. The aforementioned movable nozzle is The device comprises a first channel that receives the disinfectant upstream and flows the disinfectant downstream toward the object to be disinfected, The first channel is, The opening area on the upstream side is larger than the opening area on the downstream side. A sterilization method comprising supplying a disinfectant sequentially from the discharge pipe to a plurality of objects to be sterilized via each of the plurality of movable nozzles.

17. The object to be sterilized is a container in which beverages are filled. The sterilization method according to claim 16.