The Ultasonic Cleaning Apparatus

Abstract

An ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water, a drain port for draining water, and a container for cleaning objects; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic cleaning device, and more specifically, to an ultrasonic cleaning device equipped with a sterilization function that generates microbubbles by mixing plasma air and water and sterilizes the microbubbles by collapsing them with ultrasound. Background Technology

[0002] Medical device cleaning primarily utilizes ultrasonic cleaning and high-pressure water jetting methods. However, high-pressure water jetting makes it difficult to ensure consistent cleaning power within the cleaning space. Furthermore, high-pressure water jetting cannot employ precipitation using enzymatic detergents, which is an effective treatment method for infectious contaminants such as proteins and blood.

[0003] Ultrasonic cleaning is advantageous for separating contaminants from the cleaning target within the cleaning space. Ultrasonic cleaning allows for the use of immersion to treat contaminants through enzymatic reactions. However, ultrasonic cleaning is difficult to perform sterilization functions. The problem to be solved

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic cleaning device equipped with a cleaning function and a sterilization function.

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a cleaning device that increases the sterilization function by using a surfactant. means of solving the problem

[0006] An ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water, a drain port for draining water, and a container for cleaning objects; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of: a water supply valve for opening and closing the water supply port and the water supply line; a cleaning agent valve connected to the water supply line; a surfactant valve connected to the water supply line; a cleaning agent storage unit for supplying a cleaning agent to the cleaning agent valve; and a surfactant supply unit for supplying a surfactant to the surfactant valve may be included.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the water flow circulation unit may include a pressure pump disposed between the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port; and a first valve disposed between the pressure pump and the water flow supply port.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first three-way valve disposed between the first valve and the water flow recovery port; and a second valve branched between the pressurizing pump and the first valve and connected to the mixer may be further included. A first input port of the first three-way valve may be connected to the output end of the mixer, and a second input port of the first three-way valve may be connected to the output end of the first valve.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, a second 3-way valve connected to the output end of a first 3-way valve is further included, wherein the first output end of the second 3-way valve is connected to the water flow recovery port, and the second output end of the second 3-way valve can be connected to an auxiliary recovery port disposed in the washing tank.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may further include: a plasma generator that provides plasma air, which is the sterilizing agent, to the mixer; a pressure pump that sucks in air and provides pressurized air to the plasma generator; and an air opening / closing valve disposed between the plasma generator and the mixer.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the plasma generating unit may include: a central electrode; a dielectric tube spaced apart from the central electrode to form a flow path and disposed spaced apart from the central electrode; an outer electrode disposed to surround the dielectric tube; and a connecting unit connected to the central electrode and having a through hole on the central axis of the central electrode. A vertical hole connected to the through hole may be connected to the flow path.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, a control unit may be further included to control the ultrasonic vibrator and the water flow circulation unit to control the washing operation, the sterilization operation, and the rinsing operation.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the bottom surface of the washing tank is inclined, and may further include a net-structured stacking rack positioned at a certain height from the top of the inclined surface.

[0015] An ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cleaning tank having a lid and containing a water supply port for supplying water and a drain port for draining water, and containing a cleaning object; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant and the water flow to generate microbubbles. A method of operating the ultrasonic cleaning device comprises a cleaning operation, wherein the cleaning operation includes the step of performing a water supply process through the water supply port for cleaning water mixed with a cleaning agent and water; the step of separating contaminants attached to a cleaning object by operating the ultrasonic vibrator; the step of generating water flow circulation by operating the water flow circulation unit; the step of alternately repeating the step of separating contaminants and the step of generating water flow circulation; and the step of draining the cleaning water.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first resting period for stopping the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator after the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator may be included.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, a second rest period may be included to stop the operation of the water flow circulation unit after the operation of the water flow circulation unit.

[0018] An ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water, a drain port for draining water, and a container for a cleaning object; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles. A method of operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device includes a sterilization operation. The sterilization operation includes the step of performing a water supply process through the water supply port for cleaning water mixed with a surfactant and water; the step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation; the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the cleaning object; and the step of draining the cleaning water.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the method may further include the step of alternately repeating the steps of: operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the washing tank by water flow circulation; and operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the object to be washed.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first resting period may be included after the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the object to be cleaned, wherein the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator is stopped.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present invention, a second resting period may be included after the step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the washing tank by water flow circulation, wherein the operation of the water flow circulation unit is stopped.

[0022] An ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water, a drain port for draining water, and a container for a cleaning object; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles. The method of operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device includes a rinsing operation. The rinsing operation includes the step of performing a water supply process for cleaning water mixed with water through the water supply port; the step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation; the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the cleaning water; and the step of draining the cleaning water.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first resting period may be included after the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the object to be cleaned, wherein the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator is stopped.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, a second resting period may be included after the step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the washing tank by water flow circulation, wherein the operation of the water flow circulation unit is stopped. Effects of the invention

[0025] A cleaning process of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a process of introducing a cleaning agent (including a cleaning enzyme) for cleaning, and by creating a delay between the ultrasonic operation and the water flow circulation operation, the separated contaminated object can be settled and the distribution of the cleaning agent can be smooth.

[0026] In the cleaning process of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is preferable to guide the settled contaminated object to the bottom of the water tank and to circulate the water flow by generating a horizontal flow to prevent or reduce the floating of the contaminated object collected at the bottom, and a screen may be installed at the bottom to prevent re-entry into the water tank during circulation.

[0027] The sterilization process of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention is similar to a cleaning process, but a disinfectant is mixed into a water stream using plasma operation and sprayed into a water tank. Ultrasonic operation and water stream operation are performed alternately, and a delay is created between operations to allow time for the disinfectant to react with the separated targets for sterilization, thereby facilitating the smooth distribution of the disinfectant.

[0028] In the sterilization process of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the surfactant initially introduced serves to increase the dissolved concentration, reduce the suspension time, and form smaller bubble sizes in the case of gas sterilization.

[0029] A rinsing process of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention sterilizes supplied water to remove contaminants and operates ultrasound to remove residual impurities, such as cleaning agents in the cleaning process and surfactants in the sterilization process, and performs water flow circulation. A delay time during the rinsing process can facilitate the distribution of the sterilizing agent. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0030] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 shows photographs illustrating bubble generation resulting from the mixing of plasma air and water in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a mixer that mixes plasma air and water of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device of Figure 1. Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the sterilization operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device of Figure 1. Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the ham-gum operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device of Figure 1. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0031] When atmospheric pressure plasma is generated, active species gases (disinfectants) such as ozone and OH radicals may be generated. When water and atmospheric pressure plasma are mixed, microbubbles can be created in the water. Surfactants can induce the creation of microbubbles in the water when water and atmospheric pressure plasma are mixed, and can increase the duration of the dissolved state of active species gases (e.g., ozone) within the microbubbles in the water.

[0032] Surfactants can increase the solubility of plasma active species gases by lowering the surface tension at the gas-liquid interface. Surfactants can efficiently generate microbubbles in water. Surfactants can retain these microbubbles for an extended period without them rising to the surface.

[0033] When water and plasma air are mixed using a mixing device that mixes water and gas, such as a Venturi injector, microbubbles (microbubbles, nanobubbles) can be stably maintained in water without rising to the surface. The plasma active species gas within the microbubbles can increase the time of their dissolved state.

[0034] Surfactants can alter the duration of the dissolved state of plasma active species gases in water. For example, anionic surfactants such as SDS (Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate) can react with some active species (OH) to shorten their survival time. Tween-based surfactants (nonionic surfactants) can have the effect of increasing solubility without reacting significantly with plasma active species.

[0035] Surfactants can modify cell membranes or alter the surface hydrophilicity of substances to control the bactericidal and oxidizing effects of plasma active species within microbubbles. For example, some surfactants can weaken the cell walls of bacteria to help active species, such as OH radicals or ozone, perform a stronger bactericidal action.

[0036] Ultrasonic cavitation refers to the physical phenomenon of generating and transitioning microbubbles within a medium (primarily a fluid) under strong ultrasonic irradiation conditions.

[0037] Surfactants can also affect ultrasonic cavitation. In the phenomenon of ultrasonic cavitation, when microbubbles collapse due to ultrasound, high temperature and pressure are generated, which can lead to the additional generation of active species such as OH radicals. If a surfactant is present in water, the size and collapse rate of microbubbles may differ when water and plasma air are mixed.

[0038] When ultrasound is applied, surfactants may promote the collapse (or explosion) of microbubbles at low concentrations, but may hinder bubble collapse if the concentration is too high. An appropriate type must be selected by considering the reactivity of the surfactant with plasma active species (OH, O₃, NOx, etc.).

[0039] OH radicals or ozone combine with hydrogen atoms in the cell membranes of microorganisms living on the cleaning target and turn back into water molecules, and microorganisms that have had too many hydrogen atoms taken away lose their vitality.

[0040] After generating plasma gas, microbubbles containing an active species gas (e.g., ozone) are generated in the washing water using the Venturi effect or the like. A certain amount of surfactant is diluted in the washing water, and microbubbles are generated in the water using plasma gas. When a surfactant is used, microbubbles are easily formed in the water. By supplying the washing water containing microbubbles to a washing tank and circulating the washing water, the microbubbles can be uniformly distributed within the washing tank. Microbubbles containing an active species gas (e.g., ozone) are adsorbed or spatially homogeneously arranged on the surface of the object to be washed, and the microbubbles are exploded using ultrasound to cause the active species gas (e.g., ozone) present within the microbubbles to react with microorganisms on the object to be washed, thereby sterilizing them.

[0041] When a surfactant is used, the microbubbles do not rise from the water surface and are not released into the atmosphere; instead, they remain uniformly distributed within the water in a microbubble state for an extended period, resulting in an opaque, milky color. To uniformly distribute the plasma-treated water, which has a microbubble concentration exceeding a certain level, within the washing tank, a water circulation device (nozzle, submersible fan, circulation pump, etc.) is used for mixing.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the disinfectant may use a liquid or gas capable of sterilization, such as plasma air containing an active species gas, hydrogen peroxide, or hypochlorous acid water.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the washing process, the sterilization process, and the rinsing process may be included.

[0044] The cleaning process cleans objects using ultrasonic oscillation and a cleaning agent. The cleaning agent may contain enzymes that break down proteins, fats, carbohydrates, etc. Vibrational energy is applied to the object to be cleaned through the washing water via ultrasonic oscillation, separating impurities remaining on the surface of the object. The impurities separated from the object are settled, and a uniform contamination state is provided within the cleaning tank through water circulation.

[0045] The sterilization process operates a water circulation unit to circulate washing water containing a surfactant and introduces microbubbles containing active species gas into the washing tank. An ultrasonic vibrator is operated to explode the microbubbles, thereby sterilizing the object to be washed.

[0046] The rinsing process operates a water circulation unit to circulate surfactant-free washing water and introduces microbubbles containing active species gas into the washing tank. An ultrasonic vibrator is operated to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the washing water.

[0047] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and may be embodied in other forms. Rather, the embodiments introduced herein are provided to ensure that the disclosed content is thorough and complete and to ensure that the spirit of the present invention is sufficiently conveyed to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, components are exaggerated for clarity. Throughout the specification, parts indicated by the same reference numeral represent the same components.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 2 shows photographs illustrating bubble generation resulting from the mixing of plasma air and water in Figure 1.

[0050] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a mixer that mixes plasma air and water of Figure 1.

[0051] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the cleaning operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device of Figure 1.

[0052] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the sterilization operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device of Figure 1.

[0053] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the ham-gum operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device of Figure 1.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, an ultrasonic cleaning device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cleaning tank (110) having a water supply port (112) for supplying water and a drain port (111) for draining water, a container for cleaning objects, and a lid (114); at least one ultrasonic vibrator (130) installed on one side of the cleaning tank (110); a water flow circulation unit (120) connected to the water flow supply port (122) and water flow recovery port (121) of the cleaning tank (110) to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer (140) coupled to the water flow circulation unit (120) to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles (10).

[0055] The washing tank (110) may have a rectangular shape with a lid (114). The washing tank (110) may be made of stainless steel. A plurality of openings may be formed in the side walls of the washing tank (110) to which ultrasonic vibrators (130) may be installed. The ultrasonic vibrators (130) may be fixed so as to be inserted into the openings through sealing.

[0056] The lower surface of the washing tank (110) may have an inclined surface. The angle of the inclined surface may be between 1 and 10 degrees. The stacking platform (118) is a net structure and may be placed on a flat surface at a certain height from the top of the inclined surface. The items to be washed may be placed on the stacking platform (118). The water supply port (112), the water flow supply port (122), and the water flow recovery port (121) may be arranged side by side. The washing tank (110) may be kept parallel by a support (not shown).

[0057] The water recovered through the water flow recovery port (121) is supplied back to the washing tank through the water flow supply port (122). The water flow supply port (122) includes a nozzle structure and can spray microbubbles generated by a mixer. The microbubbles are uniformly distributed within the washing tank by water flow circulation and can have a milky color. The microbubbles can contain air containing active species gas.

[0058] The frequency of the ultrasonic transducer (130) is at the level of tens of kHz, and the output may be at the level of tens to hundreds of watts. There may be four ultrasonic transducers (130).

[0059] The water supply valve (162) can open and close the water supply port (112) and the water supply line (164). The water supply line (164) can be connected to a commercial water supply line. The cleaning agent valve (165) can be connected to the water supply line (164). The cleaning agent storage unit (166) can supply the cleaning agent to the cleaning agent valve (165). The cleaning agent can be mixed with water through the water supply line (164) under the control of the cleaning agent valve (165) to generate cleaning water, which can then be introduced into the cleaning tank (110).

[0060] A surfactant valve (167) can be connected to the water supply line (164). A surfactant supply unit (168) can supply a surfactant to the surfactant valve (167). The surfactant can be mixed with water through the water supply line (164) by controlling the surfactant valve (167) to generate washing water, which can then be introduced into the washing tank (110). A control unit (170) can supply at least one of the surfactant and the washing agent to the washing tank (110) by controlling the valves (167, 165).

[0061] The water flow circulation unit (120) may include a pressure pump (124) disposed between the water flow supply port (122) and the water flow recovery port (121); and a first valve (125) disposed between the pressure pump (124) and the water flow supply port (122). The first valve (125) may be controlled by a control unit (170).

[0062] The first three-way valve (126) may be positioned between the first valve (125) and the water supply port (122). The second valve (128) may branch off between the pressure pump (124) and the first valve (125) and be connected to the mixer (140). The first input port of the first three-way valve (126) may be connected to the output terminal of the mixer. The second input port (126) of the first three-way valve (126) may be connected to the output terminal of the first valve (125). The first three-way valve (126) and the second valve (128) may be controlled by a control unit (170).

[0063] The second 3-way valve (127) can be connected to the output end of the first 3-way valve (126). The first output end of the second 3-way valve can be connected to the water flow inlet. The second output end of the second 3-way valve can be connected to an auxiliary inlet (116) placed in the washing tank. The second 3-way valve (127) can be controlled by a control unit.

[0064] The mixer (140) may be a Venturi injector structure. The mixer (140) may be a mixing device for a disinfectant that has a water backflow prevention function (check). The mixer (140) may mix plasma air and water to generate microbubbles in the water. The microbubbles may contain active species gas. The disinfectant may use sterilizable liquids and gases such as air plasma, hydrogen peroxide, and hypochlorous acid water.

[0065] The plasma generator (150) can provide plasma air, which is the sterilizing agent, to the mixer. The plasma generator (150) may include: a central electrode (152); a dielectric tube (154) spaced apart from the central electrode to form a flow path (153) and spaced apart from the central electrode; an outer electrode (156) spaced around the dielectric tube; and a connecting part (158) connected to the central electrode and having a through hole in the central axis of the central electrode. A vertical hole (159) connected to the through hole may be connected to the flow path.

[0066] The pressure pump (192) can draw in air and provide pressurized air to the plasma generator (150). An air shut-off valve (191) can be placed between the plasma generator (150) and the mixer (140). The air shut-off valve (191) can provide plasma air to the mixer.

[0067] An upper drain (119) may be provided at the top of the washing tank. The upper drain (119) can drain floating contaminants during the process. The upper drain (119) can exhaust gas and overflow water generated in the washing tank (110). A filter (118) connected to the upper drain (119) can remove ozone from the incoming gas and then discharge the air to the external environment. A flow path connected to the upper drain (119) can drain overflow water and floating contaminants through an auxiliary drainage flow path valve (186).

[0068] A drain (111) is provided on the lower surface of the washing tank, and the drain (111) can be connected to a drain pump (182) through a drain valve (184). The washing water of the washing tank can be drained at a high speed through the drain pump (182).

[0069] The control unit (170) can control the ultrasonic vibrator and the water flow circulation unit to control the washing operation, the sterilization operation, and the rinsing operation. The control unit (170) can control the supply of the plasma generator, valves, and pumps, the cleaning agent, the surfactant, and the water. The control unit (170) can sequentially perform the washing mode, the sterilization mode, and the rinsing mode.

[0070] In a simple water flow circulation process, a circulation pump connected to a washing tank is operated to form a water flow of a circulation structure. In the case of a simple water flow circulation process, the water flow can be formed along a water flow recovery port (121), a pressure pump (124), a first valve (125), a first three-way valve, a second three-way valve (127), a water flow supply port (122), and a washing tank (110).

[0071] When supplying water flow to a tubular cleaning target, the water flow may be formed along a water flow recovery port (121), a pressure pump (124), a first valve (125), a first three-way valve, a second three-way valve (127), an auxiliary injection port (116), a tubular cleaning target, and a cleaning tank (110). To process the tubular cleaning target, switching may be used to selectively supply water and a disinfectant inside the tube.

[0072] In the case of a disinfectant water flow circulation process, the water flow can be formed along a water flow recovery port (121), a pressure pump (124), a second valve (128), a mixer (140), a first three-way valve, a second three-way valve (127), a water flow supply port (122), and a washing tank (110). The disinfectant water flow circulation process can provide a water flow circulation structure by mixing the disinfectant with water through the mixer. The disinfectant water flow circulation process may have a path for supplying water to the washing tank through a water flow supply port located at the lower side of the washing tank and a path for supplying water through an auxiliary injection port (116) located at the upper side of the washing tank.

[0073] In the case of the water supply process, the control unit opens the valve of the water supply path to supply water to the washing tank. After the completion of the individual process, in the case of the drainage process, the control unit operates the drain valve and drain pump to perform drainage.

[0074] Figure 2 shows photographs of the distribution of microbubbles according to the presence of surfactant and circulating water flow in the washing tank.

[0075] Referring to Figure 2, (a) when there is no surfactant and no water flow, large bubbles may be generated due to water supply.

[0076] (b) In the case where a surfactant is present but there is no circulating water flow, microbubbles are generated due to the water supply. However, uniform microbubbles are not distributed within the washing tank.

[0077] (c) When a surfactant is present and a circulating water flow is present, microbubbles are generated due to the water supply. Additionally, uniform microbubbles are distributed within the washing tank.

[0078] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the generation of microbubbles through a plasma generator and a mixer.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 3, the mixer is a Venturi mixer, and the plasma air supplied from the plasma generator contains active species such as ozone. The mixer mixes the plasma air and water to generate microbubbles, and then sprays the microbubbles into the washing tank.

[0080] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a cleaning process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 4, the ultrasonic cleaning device (100) comprises: a cleaning tank (110) having a water supply port for water supply and a drain port for drainage, a container for cleaning objects, and a lid (114); at least one ultrasonic vibrator (130) installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit (120) connected to the water flow supply port (122) and water flow recovery port (121) of the cleaning tank to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer (140) coupled to the water flow circulation unit (120) to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles.

[0082] The method of operation of the above-described ultrasonic cleaning device includes a cleaning operation (cleaning process). The cleaning operation (S10) includes the step of performing a water supply process through the water supply port with cleaning water mixed with a cleaning agent and water (S11); the step of separating contaminants attached to the cleaning target by operating the ultrasonic vibrator (S12); the step of generating water circulation by operating the water circulation unit (S14); the step of alternately repeating the step of separating contaminants and the step of generating water circulation; and the step of draining the cleaning water (S16).

[0083] After the operation (S12) of the ultrasonic vibrator, a first rest period (S13) for stopping the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator may be further included.

[0084] After operating the above-mentioned water circulation unit (S14), a second rest period (S15) for stopping the operation of the above-mentioned water circulation unit may be further included.

[0085] A cleaning agent may be supplied to enhance cleaning power. Ultrasonic waves may provide shock to remove foreign substances. The first resting period (S13) may induce the sedimentation of foreign substances. The operation (S14) of the water flow circulation unit may ensure spatial uniformity of the desorbed contaminants. The second resting period (S15) may allow microbubbles to reach the workpiece while maintaining microbubbles.

[0086] The water supply valve is opened to supply water to the tank, and the water supply is stopped when the water level reaches the level set by the water level sensor. Ultrasonic waves are activated to separate impurities and foreign substances from the surface. Using the pressure generated by the circulation pump, the separated heavy foreign substances fall downwards through the water flow connected to the cleaning tank via the circulation valve, and the cleaning agent washes away the object to be cleaned. The contaminated water, after the cleaning process is complete, is drained by operating the drain valve and drain pump.

[0088] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a sterilization process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 5, the ultrasonic cleaning device (100) comprises: a cleaning tank (110) having a water supply port for water supply and a drain port for drainage, a container for cleaning objects, and a lid (114); at least one ultrasonic vibrator (130) installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit (120) connected to the water flow supply port (122) and water flow recovery port (121) of the cleaning tank to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer (140) coupled to the water flow circulation unit (120) to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles.

[0090] The method of operation of the above-described ultrasonic cleaning device includes a sterilization operation (S20). The sterilization operation (S20) includes the step of performing a water supply process through the water supply port with cleaning water mixed with a surfactant and water (S21); the step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation (S24); the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the cleaning target (S22); and the step of draining the cleaning water (S26).

[0091] The method may further include the step of alternately performing the steps of: operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the washing tank by water flow circulation (S24); and operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the washing target (S22).

[0092] After the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the object to be cleaned, a first resting period (S23) for stopping the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator may be further included.

[0093] After the step of operating the water circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the washing tank by water circulation, a second resting period (S25) for stopping the operation of the water circulation unit may be further included.

[0094] S24 generates ozone and supplies microbubbles to the wash water. It sprays microbubbles to provide uniformity of microbubbles within the wash tank. The microbubbles may contain active species such as ozone. A second resting period (S25) maintains the microbubbles and allows the microbubbles to reach the workpiece.

[0095] S22 can perform sterilization by collapsing microbubbles. The first resting period (S23) after S22 can maintain the sterilization duration.

[0096] The water supply valve is opened to supply water to the tank, and the water supply is stopped when the water level reaches the level set by the water level sensor. Using the pressure generated by the circulation pump, active species generated in the plasma module are dissolved (in the form of fine bubbles or ultra-fine bubbles) through a Venturi mixer via a plasma valve to add a sterilization function to the water in the washing tank. A process is then carried out to kill microorganisms on the surface of the washing water and the workpiece by spraying them into the washing tank.

[0097] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, when a liquid disinfectant is used, a process is carried out in which a dissolved disinfectant is sprayed into a washing tank to add a sterilization function to the water and kill microorganisms on the washing water and the surface of the target.

[0098] Dissolved active species are burst to add impact to the surface of the object to be cleaned, and as the dissolved small bubbles clump together to form large bubbles and rise to the surface, contaminants and microorganisms are separated from the object. In the case of liquid disinfectants, the dissolved disinfectant is applied to the surface of the object to be sterilized, and contaminants and microorganisms are separated from the object during the process.

[0099] The contaminated water, after the sterilization process is complete, is drained by operating the drain valve and drain pump.

[0101] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a rinsing process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 6, the ultrasonic cleaning device (100) comprises: a cleaning tank (110) having a water supply port for water supply and a drain port for drainage, a container for cleaning objects, and a lid (114); at least one ultrasonic vibrator (130) installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit (120) connected to the water flow supply port (122) and water flow recovery port (121) of the cleaning tank to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer (140) coupled to the water flow circulation unit (120) to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles.

[0103] The method of operation of the above-described ultrasonic cleaning device includes a rinsing operation (S30). The rinsing operation (S30) includes the step of performing a water supply process for cleaning water mixed with water through the water supply port (S31); the step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation (S34); the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the cleaning water (S32); and the step of draining the cleaning water (S36). S34 and S32 are repeated multiple times.

[0104] It includes a first resting period (S33) in which the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator is stopped after the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the object to be cleaned.

[0105] It includes a second resting period (S35) in which the operation of the water circulation unit is stopped after the step of operating the water circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the washing tank by water circulation.

[0106] Open the water supply valve to supply water to the tank, and stop the water supply when the water level reaches the level set by the water level sensor (not shown).

[0107] A process is carried out in which active species generated in a plasma module are dissolved (in the form of fine bubbles, ultra-fine bubbles) through a Venturi mixer via a plasma valve using pressure created by a circulation pump to add a sterilization function to the water in the washing tank, and then sprayed into the washing tank to kill microorganisms on the washing water and the surface of the target.

[0108] In the case of liquid disinfectants, a process is carried out in which the dissolved disinfectant adds a sterilizing function to water and is sprayed into the washing tank to kill microorganisms in the washing water and on the surface of the target.

[0109] Dissolved active species are burst to add impact to the surface of the object to be cleaned, and as the dissolved small bubbles clump together to form large bubbles and rise to the surface, contaminants and microorganisms are separated from the object.

[0110] In the case of liquid disinfectants, the dissolved disinfectant delivers impact to the surface of the target to be sterilized, and in the process, contaminants and microorganisms are separated from the target.

[0111] The contaminated water after the rinsing process is drained by operating the drain valve and drain pump.

[0112] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described with respect to specific preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and includes all various forms of embodiments that can be practiced by a person skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention as claimed in the patent claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0113] 100: Ultrasonic cleaning device 110: Washing tank 120: Water flow circulation 130: Ultrasonic transducer 140: Mixer

Claims

Claim 1 An ultrasonic cleaning device characterized by comprising: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for water supply and a drain port for drainage, and a container for a cleaning object; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate a water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant with the water flow to generate microbubbles. Claim 2 An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized by comprising at least one of: a water supply valve for opening and closing the water supply port and the water supply line; a cleaning agent valve connected to the water supply line; a surfactant valve connected to the water supply line; a cleaning agent storage unit for supplying a cleaning agent to the cleaning agent valve; and a surfactant supply unit for supplying a surfactant to the surfactant valve. Claim 3 An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the water flow circulation unit comprises: a pressure pump disposed between the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port; and a first valve disposed between the pressure pump and the water flow supply port. Claim 4 In Paragraph 3, A first 3-way valve disposed between the first valve and the water flow recovery port; and It further includes a second valve that branches off between the pressure pump and the first valve and is connected to the mixer, and The first input port of the first 3-way valve is connected to the output terminal of the mixer, and An ultrasonic cleaning device characterized in that the second input port of the first 3-way valve is connected to the output terminal of the first valve. Claim 5 In Paragraph 4, It further includes a second 3-way valve connected to the output end of the first 3-way valve, and The first output terminal of the above-mentioned second 3-way valve is connected to the above-mentioned water flow recovery port, and An ultrasonic cleaning device characterized in that the second output terminal of the above-mentioned second 3-way valve is connected to an auxiliary recovery port disposed in the cleaning tank. Claim 6 An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising: a plasma generator that provides plasma air, which is a sterilizing agent, to the mixer; a pressure pump that sucks in air and provides pressurized air to the plasma generator; and an air opening / closing valve disposed between the plasma generator and the mixer. Claim 7 In claim 6, the plasma generating part comprises: a central electrode; a dielectric tube spaced apart from the central electrode to form a flow path and spaced apart from the central electrode; an outer electrode spaced around the dielectric tube; and a connecting part connected to the central electrode and having a through hole on the central axis of the central electrode, wherein the vertical hole connected to the through hole is connected to the flow path. Claim 8 An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that controls the ultrasonic vibrator and the water flow circulation unit to control a cleaning operation, a sterilization operation, and a rinsing operation. Claim 9 An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the bottom surface of the cleaning tank is inclined, and further includes a net-structured stacking rack positioned at a certain height from the top of the inclined surface. Claim 10 A method of operation of an ultrasonic cleaning device characterized by comprising: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water and a drain port for draining water, and a container for a cleaning object; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant and the water flow to generate microbubbles, wherein the method of operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device comprises: a step of performing a water supply process through the water supply port for cleaning water mixed with a cleaning agent and water; a step of separating contaminants attached to a cleaning object by operating the ultrasonic vibrator; a step of generating water flow circulation by operating the water flow circulation unit; a step of alternately repeating the step of separating contaminants and the step of generating water flow circulation; and a step of draining the cleaning water. Claim 11 A method of operating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 10, characterized by including a first resting period for stopping the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator after the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator. Claim 12 A method of operation of an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 10, characterized by including a second resting period for stopping the operation of the water flow circulation unit after the operation of the water flow circulation unit. Claim 13 A method of operation of an ultrasonic cleaning device characterized by comprising: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water and a drain port for draining water, and a container for cleaning objects; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant and the water flow to generate microbubbles, wherein the method includes a sterilization operation, the sterilization operation comprising: a step of performing a water supply process through the water supply port for cleaning water mixed with a surfactant and water; a step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation; a step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the cleaning objects; and a step of draining the cleaning water. Claim 14 A method of operating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 13, further comprising the step of alternately repeating the steps of: operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation; and operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the object to be cleaned. Claim 15 A method of operating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 13, characterized by including a first resting period for stopping the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator after the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the object to be cleaned. Claim 16 A method of operating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 13, characterized by including a second resting period for stopping the operation of the water circulation unit after the step of operating the water circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water circulation. Claim 17 A method of operation of an ultrasonic cleaning device characterized by comprising: a cleaning tank having a lid, a water supply port for supplying water and a drain port for draining water, and containing a cleaning object; at least one ultrasonic vibrator installed on one side of the cleaning tank; a water flow circulation unit connected to the water flow supply port and the water flow recovery port of the cleaning tank to generate water flow circulation; and a mixer coupled to the water flow circulation unit to mix a disinfectant and the water flow to generate microbubbles, wherein the method of operation of the ultrasonic cleaning device includes a rinsing operation, wherein the rinsing operation comprises: a step of performing a water supply process of cleaning water mixed with water through the water supply port; a step of operating the water flow circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water flow circulation; a step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles to sterilize the cleaning water; and a step of draining the cleaning water. Claim 18 A method of operating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 17, characterized by including a first resting period for stopping the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator after the step of operating the ultrasonic vibrator to explode the microbubbles and sterilize the object to be cleaned. Claim 19 A method of operating an ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 17, characterized by including a second resting period for stopping the operation of the water circulation unit after the step of operating the water circulation unit to introduce the microbubbles into the cleaning tank by water circulation.

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