Air purification device

Abstract

An air purification device 10A according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a first purification unit 1A and a second purification unit 1B. The first purification unit 1A includes a first housing 11, a blower fan 13, an ozone generating light source 12, an air-permeable first catalyst part 31, and an air-permeable second catalyst part 32 provided at an inner circumferential-side edge portion of the first housing 11. The first catalyst part 31 is formed by using an ozone decomposition catalyst. The second catalyst part 32 is formed by using a photocatalyst. The second purification unit 1B includes a second housing 21 and a germicidal ultraviolet source 22. Of the first purification unit 1A and the second purification unit 1B, an air outlet port of the purification unit in the former stage is connected to an air intake port of the purification unit in the latter stage.　This configuration makes it possible to provide an air purification device 10A that offers excellent air purification capacity and safety, and that is capable of purifying a large amount of air more efficiently.

Description

air purifier

[0001] The present invention relates to an air purification device.

[0002] In recent years, air purifiers have attracted attention as a countermeasure against the spread of infectious diseases. Various air purification technologies based on various principles have been proposed. However, most commercially available air purifiers use particle collection filters, such as HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, to capture particles such as bacteria. Another air purification technology involves purifying (sterilizing) bacteria by exposing them to high-concentration ozone. Most air purifiers that claim to use ozone for purification (sterilization) are intended to purify (sterilize) the air using this method. Another air purification technology involves purifying (sterilizing) bacteria using photocatalysts.

[0003] JP 2023-183273 A Patent No. 7429472 A

[0004] "Dangers Associated with Ozone Deodorization," Takamasa Iwaki et al., Journal of the Japan Society of Veterinary Medicine 80 168-170 (2007)

[0005] Particle filters can be used to capture bacteria and other microorganisms. However, once a particle filter becomes saturated with bacteria and other microorganisms, it must be replaced in order to capture more. The captured bacteria do not lose their infectious potential, so touching a particle filter saturated with bacteria and other microorganisms with your hands when replacing it poses a safety risk as it can lead to infection.

[0006] Furthermore, methods of purifying (sterilizing) bacteria by exposing them to high-concentration ozone do not actually achieve much purification (sterilization) effect. Furthermore, ozone has adverse effects on the human body and poses safety risks. When ozone is taken into the body through the nose, it can completely oxidize the mucous membranes (Non-Patent Document 1).

[0007] There is also a method of sterilization using photocatalysts. This method purifies air by irradiating it with light, and is a technology that has recently attracted attention (Patent Document 1). However, it is not easy to purify air using photocatalysts alone.

[0008] Another method is to use ultraviolet light for sterilization. Although ultraviolet light has a very strong purifying (sterilizing) effect on various bacteria, it is not necessarily a universal method, and it can take a long time to sterilize large bacteria.

[0009] In addition, devices that purify air by putting it into a closed space have also been proposed, but it is difficult to efficiently purify large amounts of air. Furthermore, although air purification technology has made remarkable progress in recent years, it is not easy to purify air that contains large bacteria.

[0010] Although Patent Document 2 discloses an excellent air purifying device, the emergence of an even better device is desired.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an air purifying device that is excellent in air purification capacity and safety, and is capable of purifying large amounts of air more efficiently.

[0012] [1] An air purifying device according to one aspect of the present invention is an air purifying device that purifies air, comprising: a first purifying section that includes a first housing having a first air intake port and a first exhaust port; a blower fan that swirls air that flows in through the first air intake port and flows it in the direction of the first exhaust port; an ozone generating light source that irradiates the air that flows in through the first air intake port with ozone generating ultraviolet light to generate ozone; an air-permeable first catalyst section provided on the side of the first exhaust port; and an air-permeable second catalyst section provided on the inner peripheral edge of the first housing, wherein the first catalyst section is constructed using an ozone decomposition catalyst that decomposes the ozone to generate active oxygen, and the second catalyst section is constructed using a photocatalyst that promotes photodecomposition when irradiated with the ozone generating ultraviolet light; and a second purifying section that includes a second housing having a second air intake port and a second exhaust port; and a sterilizing ultraviolet light source that irradiates sterilizing ultraviolet light on the air that flows in through the second air intake port and flows in the direction of the second exhaust port. The first and second purification sections are configured so that the exhaust port of the purification section at the front stage is connected to the intake port of the purification section at the rear stage.

[0013] This air purification device has a first purification section that uses catalysts to purify air with active oxygen (first catalyst section) or photodecomposition (second catalyst section), and a second purification section that purifies air with ultraviolet light. Because purification is performed using different purification methods, even if one type of purification method has shortcomings, this can be covered by another purification method, making it possible to demonstrate even better air purification capabilities.

[0014] To explain this point, the air inside the first housing is swirled by the blower fan. Because larger bacteria have a larger mass than smaller ones, the centrifugal force of the swirling airflow easily moves them to the second catalyst section provided on the inner periphery of the first housing. The larger bacteria that reach the second catalyst section are purified by photolysis. After being purified by the second catalyst section, they are further purified by active oxygen in the first catalyst section provided on the side of the first exhaust port.

[0015] On the other hand, small bacteria have a smaller mass than large bacteria, so they are less affected by the centrifugal force of the swirling flow and are more likely to move to the first catalyst section without passing through the second catalyst section, where they are purified one after another.

[0016] Since this air purification device has a second purification section in addition to the first purification section, it also purifies with germicidal ultraviolet light, making it possible to purify even large bacteria and the like powerfully and efficiently.

[0017] Furthermore, since it does not use a particle collection filter that captures bacteria, etc., there is no risk of infection from touching a particle collection filter that has captured bacteria, etc. Furthermore, since it basically does not use ozone itself for purification but rather the active oxygen generated by decomposing ozone, there is little risk of ozone leaking and causing adverse effects on the human body. Furthermore, since the first and second purification sections purify the air as it flows, it is possible to efficiently purify large amounts of air.

[0018] Therefore, it is possible to provide an air purifying device that is excellent in air purification capacity and safety, and is capable of efficiently purifying large amounts of air.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional configuration of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of installation of the second catalytic unit 32 of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the first catalytic unit 31 (appearance) of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the second catalytic unit 32 (appearance) of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a purification method (purification method using active oxygen) in the first catalytic unit 31 of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a purification method (purification method using photocatalysis) in the second catalytic unit 32 of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the wavelength characteristics of the light source of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment (size of the first exhaust port 1b < size of the second intake port 2a). FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10B (having a third catalyst section 33) according to embodiment 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10C (having a fourth catalyst section 34) according to embodiment 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10D (having a fifth catalyst section 35) according to embodiment 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10E (having a small wall 25) according to embodiment 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10F (having a sixth catalyst section 36) according to embodiment 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10G (having a second purification section 1B in the front stage and a first purification section 1A in the rear stage) according to embodiment 7.

[0020] An air purifying device according to one embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Each drawing is a schematic diagram and does not necessarily accurately reflect the actual structure, air flow, size, length, shape, etc. Each embodiment does not limit the scope of the claims. Not all of the elements and combinations thereof described in each embodiment are essential to the present invention. Components that are considered to be substantially equivalent will be designated by the same reference numerals across embodiments, and repeated description may be omitted.

[0021] [Embodiment 1] [Air Purifier] Figures 1 to 9 are diagrams shown to explain an air purifier 10A according to embodiment 1. Figure 1 shows the overall configuration of the air purifier 10A according to embodiment 1, Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional configuration, Figure 3 shows an example of installation of the second catalyst section 32, Figure 4 shows the first catalyst section 31 (appearance), and Figure 5 shows the second catalyst section 32 (appearance). In this specification, "purification" primarily means "sterilization" (including sterilization). The term "sterilization" is used to mean not only the killing of microorganisms, viruses, etc., but also their inactivation. In some cases, "purification" is also used to mean the removal of odors.

[0022] 1, an air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment includes a first purifying unit 1A and a second purifying unit 1B. The first purifying unit 1A includes a first housing 11 having a first air intake port 1a and a first exhaust port 1b, a blower fan 13 that converts air flowing in through the first air intake port 1a into a swirling flow and directs it toward the first exhaust port 1b, an ozone-generating light source 12 that irradiates the air flowing in through the first air intake port 1a with ozone-generating ultraviolet light to generate ozone, an air-permeable first catalyst unit 31 provided on the side of the first exhaust port 1b, and an air-permeable second catalyst unit 32 provided on the inner peripheral edge (11P) of the first housing 11. The first catalyst unit 31 is configured using an ozone-decomposing catalyst that decomposes ozone to generate active oxygen, and the second catalyst unit 32 is configured using a photocatalyst that promotes photodecomposition when irradiated with ozone-generating ultraviolet light.

[0023] The second purification unit 1B has a second housing 21 having a second air intake 2a and a second exhaust 2b, and a germicidal ultraviolet light source 22 that irradiates germicidal ultraviolet light onto air that flows in from the second air intake 2a and toward the second exhaust 2b.

[0024] Of the first purification unit 1A and the second purification unit 1B, the exhaust port of the purification unit in the front stage is connected to the intake port of the purification unit in the rear stage. In Embodiment 1, the front stage is the first purification unit 1A and the rear stage is the second purification unit 1B, so the first exhaust port 1b of the first purification unit 1A (front stage) is connected to the second intake port 2a of the second purification unit 1B (rear stage). In the drawing of Figure 1, air to be purified enters from the left side and is purified by the first purification unit 1A, then purified by the second purification unit 1B, and exhausted to the right side.

[0025] Furthermore, the longitudinal movement speed of the mixed gas moving through the second catalyst section 32 to the first catalyst section 31 is smaller than the longitudinal movement speed of the mixed gas moving to the first catalyst section 31 without passing through the second catalyst section 32.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1 and other figures, the air purifying device 10A of the first embodiment has a first housing 11 having a cylindrical shape with the direction from the first air intake port 1a to the first exhaust port 1b as the longitudinal direction (direction along the central axis X), a first mixing chamber 16 and a second mixing chamber 17 are provided between the ozone generating light source 12 and the first exhaust port 1b, in which the generated ozone and the inflowing air are mixed by a swirling flow to generate a mixed gas, the first mixing chamber 16 is located close to the central axis X along the longitudinal direction of the first housing 11, and the second mixing chamber 17 is located away from the central axis X, a dividing wall 18 (separation wall) is provided between the first mixing chamber 16 and the second mixing chamber 17, and the dividing wall 18 has a through hole 181 that connects the first mixing chamber 16 and the second mixing chamber 17, and a second catalyst portion 32 is provided to cover the through hole 181, A part of the swirling flow is configured to flow from the first mixing chamber 16 into the second mixing chamber 17 via the second catalyst section 32 .

[0027] The longitudinal movement speed of the mixed gas moving through the second catalyst section 32 to the first catalyst section 31 in the second mixing chamber (17) is smaller than the longitudinal movement speed of the mixed gas moving to the first catalyst section 31 in the first mixing chamber (16). In this specification, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is referred to as the lateral direction.

[0028] [Cross-Section of Air Purifier 10A] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional configuration of the air purifier 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2(a) is a cross-sectional view of the first purifier 1A taken along line A-A, and FIG. 2(b) is a cross-sectional view of the second purifier 1B taken along line B-B (see FIG. 1). When the A-A cross-section of the first purifier 1A is viewed longitudinally, the first catalyst unit 31, the ozone generating light source 12, and other components are visible, but these are omitted from FIG. 2(a). When the B-B cross-section of the second purifier 1B is viewed longitudinally, the auxiliary blower fan 132, the first catalyst, and other components are visible, but these are omitted from FIG. 2(b). FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation of the second catalyst unit 32 in the air purifier 10A according to the first embodiment.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2(a), and 3, the second catalyst section 32 is provided within the second mixing chamber (17) along the outer periphery 18s (outer wall) of the dividing wall, extending from the through-hole 181 toward the first exhaust port 1b. A cover 19 is provided on the outside of the second catalyst section 32, and the mixed gas that flows into the second catalyst section 32 from the through-hole 181 is guided by the cover 19 and flows out toward the first exhaust port 1b. The cover 19 has a cover opening 191 on the dividing wall side and a cover opening 192 on the first exhaust port side. The cover opening 191 is configured to surround the through-hole 181 to allow air to flow in, and is opened on the side of the first exhaust port 1b to facilitate air flow out in that direction. The cover 19 has a duct structure, so to speak.

[0030] The partition wall 18 may be made of a highly reflective material such as an aluminum alloy, and the aperture ratio (area of ​​the through-hole 181 / area surrounded by the cover 19, i.e., the aperture area of ​​the cover aperture 191) may be set to, for example, 0.4 to 0.6, so that the strength of the partition wall 18 is maintained while sufficient light is irradiated onto the second catalyst portion 32 through the through-hole 181. Also, the cover 19 may be made of a highly reflective material such as an aluminum alloy.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2( a), there are a plurality of covers 19 (with the second catalyst portion 32 inside), and when viewed in the longitudinal direction, the plurality of covers 19 are provided along the outer periphery 18s of the dividing wall at predetermined rotational angles (θA). In this example, four covers 19 are provided at 90-degree rotational angles (θA), but two covers 19 may be provided at 180-degree rotational angles (θA), or three covers 120-degree rotational angles (θA), for example. Note that it is preferable that the rotational angles (θA) are equal, but they do not necessarily have to be equal.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 2A, a sound absorbing material 6 is provided in the space surrounded by the cover 19, the partition wall 18 and the first housing 11.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1 and 2(b), multiple linear light sources are used as germicidal ultraviolet light source 22, and the multiple linear light sources are arranged so that their linear direction is along the longitudinal direction and are arranged at predetermined rotation angles (θB) when viewed from the longitudinal direction.

[0034] Here, the coarse dust filter 3 and other components shown in Figure 1 will be described. [Coarse Dust Filter 3] As shown in Figure 1, the air purifying device 10A preferably has a coarse dust filter 3 disposed before the air intake of the upstream purification section. For example, it may be made of a wire mesh or similar material. The coarse dust filter 3 removes coarse dust (for example, dust particles several millimeters or longer) such as fluff, hair, and dust.

[0035] When the coarse dust filter 3 is provided, it is possible to prevent at least one of the following problems: the air permeability of the first or second catalyst part 32 being impaired by coarse dust; the catalytic function of the first or second catalyst part 32 being impaired by coarse dust, shortening its use; or the irradiation of light emitted from the ozone generating light source 12 or the germicidal ultraviolet light source 22 being hindered.

[0036] [Reflecting member 24] It is preferable to provide a reflecting member on the inner surface of second housing 21 of second purification unit 1B. For example, reflecting member 24 is provided by applying aluminum or silver paint to the inner surface (inner periphery) of second housing 21 made of metal such as stainless steel, plastic, or the like, or by sputtering (reflecting processing). When reflecting member 24 is provided, not only direct light from germicidal ultraviolet light source 22 but also light reflected by reflecting member 24 is irradiated into the air. In addition to the inner surface of second housing 21, reflecting member 24 may also be provided on the inner surface of dividing wall 18 of first purification unit 1A, the inner surface of first housing 11, the inner surface of cover 19, etc.

[0037] [Blower Fan 13] The blower fan 13 introduces air from the first air intake port 1a into the first housing 11, and generates a swirling flow inside the first housing 11 that swirls from the first air intake port 1a to the first exhaust port 1b. The blower fan 13 may be, for example, a fan that generates a swirling flow by rotating a propeller-shaped member. The fan is installed, for example, so that the surface that takes in air faces the first air intake port 1a and the surface that releases the swirling flow faces the first exhaust port 1b. Since the ozone generating light source 12 is located near the blower fan 13 and generates ozone, ozone is mixed into the swirling flow. Due to the centrifugal force generated by the swirling flow, large bacteria and the like contained in the air move to the inner peripheral edge (11P) of the first housing 11 and pass through the second catalyst part 32 and the second catalyst part 32, making it easier to be exhausted from the first exhaust port 1b, while small bacteria and the like contained in the air are not affected much by the centrifugal force and are easier to be exhausted from the first exhaust port 1b through the first catalyst part 31.

[0038] 1, the blower fan 13 is provided on the first exhaust port 1b side of the ozone generating light source 12, but it may also be provided on the first intake port 1a side of the ozone generating light source 12. In the former case, air not containing ozone reaches the blower fan 13. In contrast, in the latter case, air containing ozone reaches the blower fan 13. In either case, the blower fan 13 appropriately supplies air as a raw material for ozone to the ozone generating light source 12, mixes the ozone generated when the air is irradiated with ozone-generating ultraviolet rays, and sends the ozone into the first housing 11 by a swirling flow.

[0039] [Auxiliary Blower Fan 132] The auxiliary blower fan 132 is not essential, but may be provided as an auxiliary fan to improve air flow. As shown in FIG. 1 , the auxiliary blower fan 132 may be provided, for example, at the second exhaust port 2b of the second purification unit 1B. Alternatively, the auxiliary blower fan 132 may be provided at the first exhaust port 1b (or the second intake port 2a, i.e., the connection point between the first purification unit 1A and the second purification unit 1B). Alternatively, the auxiliary blower fan 132 may be provided at both the first and second exhaust ports 1b (or the second intake port 2a, i.e., the connection point between the first purification unit 1A and the second purification unit 1B). The air volume of the auxiliary blower fan 132 is preferably set to be equal to or greater than the air volume of the blower fan 13. Furthermore, the auxiliary blower fan 132 is preferably rotated in the same direction as the blower fan 13. This is to prevent disturbance of the centrifugal separation effect due to rotational turbulence.

[0040] [Controller 5] The controller 5 is composed of a logic circuit, a microcomputer, etc. It controls the on / off of the ozone generating light source 12 and the germicidal ultraviolet light generating light source, their irradiation intensity, the on / off of the blower fan 13 (and auxiliary blower fan 132), their rotation speed (air volume), etc.

[0041] [First Catalyst Unit 31] FIG. 4 is a diagram (photograph) illustrating the first catalyst unit 31 (appearance) of the air purifier 10A according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first catalyst unit 31 has a structure in which numerous cylindrical ventilation holes 311 are formed along the longitudinal axis (air flow direction), each with an opening area (short-side direction) of 0.5 to 1.5 square mm and a length (thickness) of 5 to 15 mm, allowing light traveling straight along the longitudinal axis to pass through. While the structure resembles a cardboard box, it may also be a honeycomb structure. In FIG. 4, a light source is placed behind the first catalyst unit 31 so that the openings of the ventilation holes 311 can be seen. The ventilation holes 311 provide air permeability to the first catalyst unit 31. The ventilation holes 311 allow air to easily reach the second purification unit 1B.

[0042] The first catalyst section 31 may be formed by, for example, using manganese dioxide as the main catalyst material, molding the powder with a binder, and forming the ventilation holes 311 therein. Alternatively, the first catalyst section 31 may be formed by, for example, adhering the above-mentioned catalyst material to the surface of a metal, ceramic, plastic, or composite thereof having the ventilation holes 311 formed therein, including the ventilation holes 311. Alternatively, the first catalyst section 31 may be formed by, for example, adhering the above-mentioned catalyst material to the surface of a metal, ceramic, plastic, or composite thereof having the ventilation holes 311 formed therein, including the ventilation holes 311. In addition to manganese dioxide, the main catalyst material may be any one or more of nickel oxide, iron oxide, copper oxide, cobalt carbonate, nickel carbonate, and copper carbonate. As the binder, for example, an inorganic powder such as silica gel, alumina gel, or zeolite, or an inorganic binder made by mixing these, may be used.

[0043] [Second catalyst section 32] FIG. 5 is a diagram (photograph) illustrating the second catalyst section 32 (appearance) of the air purification device 10A according to the first embodiment. The photocatalyst has a rough structure to allow light to reach from the light-irradiated surface to the back surface. For example, a large number of irregularly shaped ventilation holes 321 with an opening area of ​​0.1 to 1.5 mm are formed in a maze pattern. Alternatively, they may be formed in a wire mesh pattern. The ventilation holes 321 provide air permeability to the second catalyst section 32. The ventilation holes 321 (voids) allow air to easily reach the second mixing chamber 17.

[0044] The second catalyst section 32 is constructed by, for example, using titanium dioxide as the main catalyst material, preparing an aqueous solution of the powder, and coating it on the surface of a ceramic with labyrinth-shaped vent holes to perform photocatalytic processing. Titanium dioxide may be anatase-type titanium dioxide, which is stable at relatively low temperatures, or rutile-type titanium dioxide, which is stable at relatively high temperatures. Titanium dioxide (powder) may be used in combination with platinum (or N ｉ O ２ ) may be supported.

[0045] As the main catalyst material, in addition to titanium dioxide, one or more of the following may be used: titanium oxide containing titanium dioxide, metal oxide such as strontium titanate, tungsten oxide, zinc oxide, and sulfides such as zinc sulfide and cadmium sulfide. ｉO ２ The solution is not limited to an aqueous solution and may be any solution. It may be in the form of a paint. Coating methods include dipping, spraying, brushing, etc.

[0046] The air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment purifies air using a plurality of purification methods. These purification methods will be described. [Purification method in the first catalyst unit 31 (purification method using active oxygen)] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining the purification method in the first catalyst unit 31 of the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment (purification method using active oxygen). Fig. 6(a) is a diagram showing the purification method in the first catalyst unit 31 of the air purifying device 10A, and Fig. 6(b) is a diagram showing a purification method (conventional example) in an apparatus using a commonly used particle collection filter 911 (HEPA filter).

[0047] In the purification method shown in FIG. 6(b), the air to be purified is taken in by a blower fan 913 installed on the exhaust port side, and after coarse dust is removed by a coarse dust filter 3, bacteria and the like are captured by a particle collection filter 911 (HEPA filter), and odor molecules are adsorbed by an activated carbon filter 912.

[0048] With this purification method (prior art), the captured bacteria and other contaminants do not necessarily die over time. Furthermore, the particle collection filter 911 (HEPA filter) and activated carbon filter 912 become saturated with bacteria and odor molecules, so they need to be replaced periodically. Furthermore, the finer the mesh of the particle collection filter 911 (HEPA filter), the more small particles it can capture, but the more it obstructs airflow.

[0049] In contrast, the purification method shown in FIG. 6( a) (Embodiment 1) is similar to that shown in FIG. 6( b) in that coarse dust is removed using a coarse dust filter 3, but differs in other respects. Specifically, a blower fan 13 is disposed near an ozone-generating light source 12. When light from the ozone-generating light source 12 is irradiated onto the air taken in by the blower fan 13, ozone is generated and mixed with the air. The ozone is decomposed by a first catalyst section 31 (ozone decomposition catalyst) to generate active oxygen. When the air passes through the ventilation holes 311 of the first catalyst section 31 and is exhausted, bacteria and the like are purified by the active oxygen. Note that oxygen in the air is converted into ozone by irradiation with the ozone-generating light source 12, and when it returns to its original form at the first catalyst section 31 (ozone decomposition catalyst), it instantly inactivates and decomposes bacteria, organic matter, and the like as active oxygen with strong oxidizing power.

[0050] The purification method (Embodiment 1) shown in Figure 6(a) does not purify air by capturing bacteria, etc. Therefore, since there is no particle collection filter 911, its replacement is not necessary. Furthermore, since ozone is decomposed by the first catalyst section 31 (ozone decomposition catalyst), ozone does not cause harm to humans. Furthermore, since the main player in purifying air is active oxygen (not ozone), powerful air purification is possible. Furthermore, since the air is purified while it is flowing, it is possible to efficiently purify large amounts of air.

[0051] [Purification Method in Second Catalyst Unit 32 (Purification Method Using Photocatalysis)] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the purification method (purification method using photocatalysis) in the second catalyst unit 32 of the air purifier 10A according to the first embodiment. When titanium dioxide is irradiated with light, superoxide (superoxide radicals) are generated. This has extremely strong oxidizing power, and bacteria and the like are purified. Furthermore, when titanium dioxide is irradiated with light, its surface becomes easily wetted (superhydrophilic). Droplets and the like are captured on the surfaces of the ventilation holes 321 of the second catalyst unit 32 and purified by the oxidizing power of the superoxide. Because this superoxide is highly reactive, it cannot exist for long periods of time and quickly disappears after generation. Note that, if moisture is present around the second catalyst unit 32, hydroxyl radicals may be generated. Bacteria and the like are also purified by the hydroxyl radicals.

[0052] Photocatalysts have a deodorizing effect. For example, they can reduce so-called everyday odors by oxidizing and decomposing chemical substances such as ammonia (toilet odors, etc.), acetaldehyde (cigarette odors, etc.), methyl mercaptan, trimethylamine, and hydrogen sulfide (garbage odors, etc.).

[0053] [Purification Method in Second Purification Unit 1B (Purification Method Using Germicidal UV Light)] The purification method in second purification unit 1B is a purification method using germicidal UV light (not shown). Nucleic acids (DNA) that control genetic information are present in all living organisms, including bacteria. When irradiated with UV light, the DNA absorbs the UV light, destroying the genetic code, preventing normal proliferation and causing death (inactivation). This is how air is purified in second purification unit 1B.

[0054] [Ozone-generating light source 12, germicidal ultraviolet light generating light source] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the wavelength characteristics of the light sources (12, 22) of the air purifying device 10A according to embodiment 1. Figure 8(a) shows the wavelength characteristics of the ozone-generating light source 12, and Figure 8(b) shows the wavelength characteristics of the germicidal ultraviolet light source 22. Note that the wavelength scale on the horizontal axis of Figure 8(b) (at the bottom of the figure) is the same as that in Figure 8(a), and the scale has been omitted.

[0055] The ozone generating light source 12 emits vacuum ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 10 nm to less than 200 nm (illustrated by the solid line). Light in the wavelength range of 160 to 190 nm is preferred. Light in the wavelength range of 180 to 190 nm is more preferred. Light in the wavelength range of 184 to 188 nm (e.g., 185 nm) is even more preferred. Note that light with wavelengths outside the above wavelength ranges may also be emitted simultaneously (e.g., light with a wavelength around 254 nm, as shown by the dashed line, or light with a wavelength of 300 nm to 550 nm).

[0056] A low-pressure mercury lamp that generates germicidal rays with approximately 10 times the illuminance of 185 nm ozone rays may be used as the ozone generating light source 12. In this case, the following effects can be expected: (a) Exciting ozone molecules and facilitating the generation of active oxygen; (b) Activating photocatalysts; and (c) Degrading nucleic acids (RNA, DNA) and inactivating bacteria and viruses.

[0057] The germicidal ultraviolet light source 22 emits light with a wavelength of 200 to 280 nm (illustrated by the solid line). Light with a wavelength of 220 to 270 nm is preferred. Light with a wavelength of 222 nm or 253 to 257 nm (e.g., light around 185 nm) is even more preferred. Note that light with a wavelength outside the above wavelength range may also be emitted simultaneously (e.g., light with a wavelength of 300 nm to 550 nm shown by the dashed line). Furthermore, to avoid ozone generation, it is preferable to exclude light with a wavelength less than 200 nm (light with the wavelength of the vacuum ultraviolet light described above, light shown by the solid line in the wavelength range less than 200 nm in Figure 8(a)).

[0058] These light sources (12, 22) may be, for example, excimer lamps, mercury lamps (including constant pressure mercury lamps), LEDs, etc. Note that predetermined wavelength characteristics may be obtained by utilizing the lamp tube wall material, wavelength transmission and attenuation characteristics of the tube wall and coating, the LED material, wavelength transmission and attenuation characteristics of the coating, etc. (e.g., cutting off light of a predetermined wavelength).

[0059] [Example Shape of Air Purifier 10A] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, for example, the first purification unit 1A has a first housing 11 made of a tube (longitudinal length 10 to 30 cm) with a rectangular cross section (each side 10 to 20 cm) in the transverse direction, with a tube having a circular cross section in the transverse direction provided inside the first housing 11 as the dividing wall 18. A first catalyst unit 31 is provided in the first exhaust port 1b. The first catalyst unit 31 is provided over the entire first exhaust port 1b (rectangular in the transverse direction) (longitudinal thickness 5 to 15 mm). The cover 19 is provided near the longitudinal center between the ozone generating light source 12 and the first catalyst unit 31 (height of the cover 19 is 1 to 3 cm, longitudinal length 5 to 10 cm, and width 5 to 10 cm). A second catalyst unit 32 is provided inside the cover 19.

[0060] In the first embodiment, the second housing 21 and the first housing 11 have the same shape and size in cross section in the short direction. At least the first exhaust port 1b and the second intake port 2a, which are the connection points between the two, have the same cross section and size. The length of the second housing 21 in the long direction is, for example, 80 to 120 cm.

[0061] 9 is a diagram illustrating a modification of the air purifying device 10A according to Embodiment 1. In this modification, the size (cross-sectional area in the short side direction) of the second air intake port 2a is larger than the size (cross-sectional area in the short side direction) of the first exhaust port 1b.

[0062] [Effects of Embodiment 1] According to the air purifying device 10A of Embodiment 1, the first purifying unit 1A in the front stage purifies air using a catalyst, and the second purifying unit 1B in the rear stage further purifies air using ultraviolet light. In the first purifying unit 1A in the front stage, centrifugal force from the swirling flow easily moves large bacteria and other microorganisms to the second catalyzer 32 on the inner peripheral edge (11P) of the first housing 11, where they are purified by photocatalysis and further purified by active oxygen in the first catalyzer 31. On the other hand, small bacteria and other microorganisms easily move quickly to the first catalyzer 31 without passing through the second catalyzer 32, and are successively purified by the first catalyzer 31. Air that passes through the first purifying unit 1A in the front stage is further purified by germicidal ultraviolet light in the second purifying unit 1B in the rear stage. Therefore, air can be purified powerfully and efficiently using multiple purification methods.

[0063] The second catalyst section 32 is constructed using a photocatalyst, which is hydrophilic and therefore captures droplets and purifies bacteria and other contaminants contained in the droplets. This makes it easy to purify large droplets with the second catalyst section 32, and purify small droplets with active oxygen in the first catalyst section 31, or with germicidal ultraviolet light in the second purification section 1B.

[0064] Furthermore, since various substances produce various odors, it is not easy to remove them, but for the same reasons as with droplets, it is possible to remove many odors.

[0065] Furthermore, since it does not use a particle collection filter that captures bacteria, there is no risk of infection. Furthermore, since it basically uses activated oxygen generated by decomposing ozone, rather than ozone itself, there is little risk of ozone leaking and causing adverse effects on the human body. Furthermore, since the first purification unit 1A and the second purification unit 1B purify the air as it flows, it is possible to efficiently purify large amounts of air.

[0066] Furthermore, since it does not use a particle collection filter that captures bacteria, etc., there is no risk of infection from touching the skin. Unlike particle collection filters, there is no need for replacement work, and maintenance is easy. Furthermore, since it basically uses activated oxygen generated by decomposing ozone, rather than ozone itself, there is little risk of adverse effects on the human body due to ozone leakage. Furthermore, since the first purification unit 1A and the second purification unit 1B purify the air as it flows, it is possible to efficiently purify large amounts of air.

[0067] Therefore, it is possible to provide an air purifying device 10A that is excellent in air purification capacity and safety, and is capable of efficiently purifying a large amount of air.

[0068] The effects of the above embodiment can also be explained as follows: (a) The active oxygen species generated when the photocatalyst comes into contact with air or water vapor is the same as that generated by ozone decomposition. This is natural because the carriers of the photocatalytic reaction can only take the form of superoxide anions, OH radicals, etc.

[0069] (b) On the other hand, the energy of the holes generated by photocatalysts is greater than that of ozone decomposition products. As a result, photocatalysts can be used effectively to treat substances that are difficult to treat with ozone decomposition, such as acetaldehyde and high molecular weight organic compounds. However, this requires contact with the photocatalyst.

[0070] (c) Because photocatalysts require a large light-irradiated surface and a large contact area with the air, they must have a large, coarse structure, or a special structure that ensures a dense light-irradiated surface (in which case, pressure loss is likely to increase). In fact, the catalytic surface area of ​​the photocatalysts used in commercial photocatalytic air purifiers is large (for example, large photocatalysts with catalytic surfaces of 200 mm x 600 mm, 500 mm square, etc. are used).

[0071] (d) The air purifying device 10A of Embodiment 1 has a structure that alleviates this weakness of photocatalysts. Specifically, large organic matter and the like are guided by centrifugal separation caused by a swirling flow to the air-permeable second catalyst section 32 provided on the inner peripheral edge section 11P of the first housing 11. As the air passes through the second catalyst section 32, the air flow rate is reduced, allowing the large organic matter and the like to come into contact with the photocatalyst for a longer period of time, thereby decomposing the large organic matter and the like.

[0072] (e) Many commercially available air purifiers use deodorizing methods such as "masking with another fragrance" or "adsorbing with activated carbon = replacing when saturated." In contrast, the air purifier 10A of embodiment 1 is capable of converting odor molecules into water vapor or carbon dioxide using a catalyst, and can be used for a long period of time (long life) without the need to replace the purification unit.

[0073] In addition, the first mixing chamber 16 and the second mixing chamber 17 are located between the ozone generating light source 12 and the first exhaust port 1b, the partition wall 18 is located between the first mixing chamber 16 and the second mixing chamber 17, the partition wall 18 has a through-hole 181, the second catalyst section 32 is provided to cover the through-hole 181, and a portion of the swirling flow flows from the first mixing chamber 16 into the second mixing chamber 17 via the second catalyst section 32. In this configuration, large bacteria and the like that flow into the second mixing chamber 17 with the portion of the swirling flow are purified by photocatalysis in the second catalyst section 32 and then move from the second mixing chamber 17, separated by the partition wall 18, to the first catalyst section 31, where they are likely to be further purified by active oxygen. On the other hand, small bacteria and the like move quickly with the air through the first mixing chamber 16 toward the first exhaust port 1b and are likely to be purified one after another by active oxygen in the first catalyst section 31. In this way, the presence of the first mixing chamber 16, the second mixing chamber 17 and the dividing wall 18 makes it easier to separate large bacteria and small bacteria, etc., and purify them using a purification method appropriate for each.

[0074] Furthermore, if the second catalyst section 32 is provided within the second mixing chamber (17) along the outer periphery 18s of the dividing wall from the through hole 181 toward the first exhaust port 1b, and a cover 19 is provided on the outside of the second catalyst section 32, and the mixed gas that flows into the second catalyst section 32 from the through hole 181 is guided by the cover 19 and flows out in the direction of the first exhaust port (1b), the residence time in the second catalyst section 32 can be extended, making it possible to perform powerful organic decomposition, etc.

[0075] Furthermore, if there are multiple covers 19 and, when viewed from the longitudinal direction, the multiple covers 19 are arranged along the outer periphery 18s of the dividing wall at predetermined rotation angles (θA), large bacteria, etc. that have moved to the inner peripheral edge portion (11P) of the first housing 11 due to the centrifugal force caused by the swirling flow can pass through the through holes 181 of the covers 19 while reducing unevenness due to the inner peripheral location, and can be easily purified by the second catalyst portion 32.

[0076] Furthermore, if sound-absorbing material 6 is provided in the space surrounded by cover 19, dividing wall 18, and first housing 11, it is possible to reduce any of the noise caused by blower fan 13, the noise caused by swirling flow, and the noise caused by air passing through the air-permeable second catalyst section 32.

[0077] Furthermore, if multiple linear light sources are used as germicidal UV light sources 22, and the multiple linear light sources are arranged so that their linear direction is along the longitudinal direction and are arranged at predetermined rotation angles (θB) when viewed from the longitudinal direction, the air is purified by germicidal UV light while flowing in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent blind spots from occurring in the air (flowing in the longitudinal direction) from the direct light (high irradiation intensity) from the light sources (22).

[0078] [Embodiment 2] Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10B according to Embodiment 2. The air purifying device 10B according to Embodiment 2 is basically the same as the air purifying device 10A according to Embodiment 1, except that the first purifying unit 1A further includes an air-permeable third catalyst unit 33 between the blower fan 13 and the ozone generating light source 12. This portion is shown in Fig. 10 . The third catalyst unit 33 is formed using a photocatalyst that promotes photodecomposition when irradiated with ozone-generating ultraviolet light emitted from the ozone generating light source 12. The photocatalyst used in the third catalyst unit 33 is the same as the photocatalyst used in the second catalyst unit 32.

[0079] In this way, the air entering the first mixing chamber 16 is purified by the third catalyst section 33 between the blower fan 13 and the ozone generating light source 12, and then flows into the first mixing chamber 16 by the air blown by the blower fan 13, where it is further purified in the same manner as in embodiment 1. Note that the third catalyst section 33 is sufficiently irradiated with light emitted from the ozone generating light source 12, which facilitates photolysis. Furthermore, since the third catalyst section 33 only needs to be provided between the blower fan 13 and the ozone generating light source 12, there is no need to increase the size of the device. Note that the same effects as in embodiment 1 are achieved in the same respects as in embodiment 1.

[0080] [Embodiment 3] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10C according to Embodiment 3. The air purifying device according to Embodiment 3 is basically similar to the air purifying device 10A according to Embodiment 1, except that a fourth catalyst unit 34 is further provided. That is, the air purifying device 10C according to Embodiment 3 is configured such that the first purifying unit 1A is in the front stage and the second purifying unit 1B is in the rear stage. An air-permeable fourth catalyst unit 34 is further provided on the side of the first catalyst unit 31 facing the second purifying unit 1B. The fourth catalyst unit 34 is configured using a photocatalyst that promotes photolysis when irradiated with germicidal UV light emitted from the germicidal UV light source 22. The photocatalyst used in the fourth catalyst unit 34 is the same as the photocatalyst used in the second catalyst unit 32. The fourth catalyst unit 34 is provided, for example, in a stacked configuration on the first catalyst unit 31, or at a predetermined interval.

[0081] In this way, the air purified by first catalyst section 31 can be further purified by fourth catalyst section 34. At this time, fourth catalyst section 34 is sufficiently irradiated with sterilizing UV light emitted from sterilizing UV light source 22, promoting photolysis. Note that the same effects as those of embodiment 1 are achieved in the same respects as embodiment 1.

[0082] [Embodiment 4] Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining an air purifying device 10D according to Embodiment 4. The air purifying device 10D according to Embodiment 4 is basically similar to the air purifying device 10C according to Embodiment 3, except that it further includes a fifth catalyst section 35. That is, the air purifying device 10D according to Embodiment 4 further includes an air-permeable fifth catalyst section 35 between the first catalyst section 31 and the fourth catalyst section 34 in the air purifying device 10C according to Embodiment 3 (see Fig. 11).

[0083] The fifth catalyst section 35 is constructed using a catalyst other than the ozone decomposition catalyst used in the first catalyst section 31 and the photocatalyst used in the fourth catalyst section 34. The fifth catalyst section 35 is constructed using, for example, an enzyme catalyst. An enzyme catalyst is a catalyst that uses a biologically active component as a catalyst for chemical conversion. It mainly promotes a wide range of carbon-centered reactions. Enzyme catalysts often have fast reaction rates and also act gently. An enzyme filter (breathable) with bacteriolytic properties may also be used as the fifth catalyst section 35. The first catalyst section 31, fifth catalyst section 35, and fourth catalyst section 34 are arranged, for example, in a stacked configuration. A predetermined gap is left between each catalyst section.

[0084] In this way, in addition to the method using the ozone decomposition catalyst and the method using the photocatalyst, it is possible to purify the air by another method (a method using the fifth catalyst section 35). Note that the same effects as those of the third embodiment are obtained in the same manner as the third embodiment.

[0085] 13 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10E according to a fifth embodiment. The air purifying device 10E according to the fifth embodiment is basically the same as the air purifying device 10A according to the first embodiment, but differs in that a small wall 25 is provided. That is, in the air purifying device 10E according to the fifth embodiment, the second housing 21 is provided with the small wall 25 on the inner surface near the linear light source end (22e) in the linear extension direction of the linear light source, and the small wall 25 is configured to lengthen the residence time of air that flows in from the second air intake port 2a (left side of the drawing, not shown) and flows toward the second air exhaust port 2b (right side of the drawing, not shown).

[0086] 13( a) to 13(c) illustrate cases where multiple linear light sources have approximately the same length. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 13(a), the multiple linear light sources are arranged at approximately the same longitudinal position, and small walls 25 in the extension direction of the end of each linear light source (on the second exhaust port side, right side) are also provided at approximately the same longitudinal position. After air flowing from the left side to the right side of the drawing is irradiated with sterilizing UV light emitted from sterilizing UV light source 22, the flow to the right is stopped by small wall 25, and then temporarily returned in the short direction or the opposite direction (left side), and is further irradiated with sterilizing UV light for that amount of time.

[0087] The multiple linear light sources may be arranged so that at least one end position in the longitudinal direction is different. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 13( b), the linear light sources are arranged at different longitudinal positions, and small walls 25 are provided on the extension direction of the ends of the linear light sources (toward the second exhaust port, on the right side). After air flowing from the left side to the right side of the figure is irradiated with sterilizing UV light from the upper sterilizing UV light source 22, the flow to the right is stopped by the small wall 25, and the air is temporarily returned to the short side or in the opposite direction (left side) before heading right. Because the lower sterilizing UV light source 22 is arranged to the right of the upper sterilizing UV light source 22 (toward the second exhaust port), the air is further irradiated by the lower sterilizing UV light source 22. The small wall 25 on the right side of the lower sterilizing UV light source 22 may be omitted.

[0088] In the configuration example shown in FIG. 13( c), a small wall 25 is provided in the extension direction of the end of the upper linear light source (the second air intake port 2 a side, left side), and a small wall 25 is provided in the extension direction of the end of the lower linear light source (the second exhaust port side, right side). Air flowing from left to right is stopped by small wall 25 on the left side of the upper linear light source, temporarily returned to the short side or the opposite direction (left side), then flows to the right, and is further irradiated by the lower germicidal UV light source 22. Then, the air flowing to the right is stopped by small wall 25 on the right side of the lower germicidal UV light source 22, temporarily returned to the short side or the opposite direction (left side), then flows to the right. Then, the air is further irradiated by the upper germicidal UV light source 22.

[0089] It is preferable that the small wall 25 is larger than the linear light source (having a larger area in the short direction) when viewed in the longitudinal direction. The shape of the small wall 25 in the short direction is, for example, circular or rectangular. The surface of the small wall 25 on the second intake port (2a) side may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or may be inclined toward the second intake port or the second exhaust port.

[0090] In this way, second housing 21 is provided with small wall 25 on the inner surface near linear light source end (22e) in the linear extension direction of the linear light source, and small wall 25 is configured to increase the residence time of air flowing in from second air intake port 2a and flowing toward second exhaust port 2b. This increases the time that air is substantially irradiated with germicidal ultraviolet light while preventing the longitudinal length of second purifier 1B from increasing, thereby making it possible to purify large amounts of air more efficiently. Note that the same effects as in embodiment 1 are achieved with respect to the same points as in embodiment 1.

[0091] Furthermore, when the small wall 25 is provided and the linear light sources are arranged so that at least one end position in the longitudinal direction is different, the air is irradiated for a longer period of time with germicidal ultraviolet light from the linear light sources with different end positions, thereby enabling more efficient purification.

[0092] [Embodiment 6] Fig. 14 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10F according to Embodiment 6. The air purifying device 10F according to Embodiment 6 is basically the same as the air purifying device 10C according to Embodiment 3 (see Fig. 11), but differs in that a sixth catalyst section 36 is provided instead of the fourth catalyst section 34. The sixth catalyst section 36 is configured similarly to the fourth catalyst section 34 using the same photocatalyst. In Embodiment 6, the sixth catalyst section 36 is provided on the side of the first catalyst section 31 facing the first air intake port 1a. In this manner, it is possible to promote the photocatalytic action of the second catalyst section 32 and the sixth catalyst section 36 by the ozone-generating ultraviolet light emitted from the ozone-generating light source 12.

[0093] [Embodiment 7] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating an air purifying device 10G according to embodiment 7. The air purifying device 10G according to embodiment 7 is basically the same as the air purifying device 10A according to embodiment 1, except that in embodiment 1, the first purifying unit 1A is located in the front stage and the second purifying unit 1B is located in the rear stage, whereas in embodiment 2, the second purifying unit 1B is located in the front stage and the first purifying unit 1A is located in the rear stage. Auxiliary blower fans 133 and 134 are installed at the second air intake port 2a and the first air exhaust port 1b, respectively.

[0094] Therefore, in embodiment 1, the first exhaust port 1b of the first purification unit 1A (front stage) is connected to the second intake port 2a of the second purification unit 1B (rear stage), whereas in embodiment 2, the second exhaust port 2b of the second purification unit 1B (front stage) is connected to the first intake port 1a of the first purification unit 1A (rear stage). In this manner, the air is purified by the second purification unit 1B (front stage) and then purified by the first purification unit 1A (rear stage).

[0095] Although one aspect of the present invention has been described above based on the above embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The present invention can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the following modifications are also possible.

[0096] (1) In the first embodiment, the ozone generating light source 12 emits ozone generating ultraviolet light that is used to generate ozone and also to promote the photodecomposition action of the photocatalyst in the second catalyst section 32. However, a light source intended to promote the photodecomposition action of the photocatalyst may be provided separately from the ozone generating light source 12.

[0097] (2) In the first embodiment, the cross sections of the first housing 11 and the second housing 21 in the short-side direction are rectangular, but both may be circular.

[0098] (3) In the first embodiment, the cross section of the dividing wall 18 in the lateral direction does not change in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the cross section is a cylinder with the same area). However, the cross section may be a cone-like shape that widens toward the end, increasing in cross section from the first intake port 1 a toward the first exhaust port 1 b.

[0099] (4) In the first embodiment, the inner periphery (inner surface, inner wall) of the partition wall 18 may also be coated with a photocatalyst. In this way, it becomes possible to purify the air by photolysis even on the inner periphery of the partition wall 18.

[0100] (5) In the first embodiment, the base (having the ventilation holes 321 and having a photocatalyst coated surface) constituting the second catalyst section 32 and / or the cover 19 may be integrally formed as part of the partition wall 18 using, for example, a metal or the like using a 3D printer. Also, the entire inner surface of the partition wall 18 (first mixing chamber 16) may be photocatalytically treated in part or all.

[0101] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G...Air purifier, 1A...First purifier, 1B...Second purifier, 11...First housing, 11P...Inner peripheral edge portion, 12...Ozone generating light source, 13...Blower fan, 132, 133, 134...Auxiliary blower fans, 16...First mixing chamber, 17...Second mixing chamber, 18...Dividing wall, 18s...Outer periphery of dividing wall (outer wall), 181...Through-hole, 19...Cover, 191...Cover opening (dividing wall side), 192...Cover opening (first exhaust port side), 21...Second housing, 22...Germicidal ultraviolet light source, 22e...Light source End, 24...reflecting member, 25...small wall 25, 31...first catalyst part, 32...second catalyst part, 33...third catalyst part, 34...fourth catalyst part, 311...ventilation hole (first catalyst part), 321...ventilation hole (second catalyst part), 35...fifth catalyst part, 36...sixth catalyst part, 1a...first air intake port, 1b...first exhaust port, 2a...second air intake port, 2b...second exhaust port, 3...coarse dust filter, 5...control part, 6...sound absorbing material, X...central axis, θA, θB...rotation angle, 911...particle collection filter (HEPA filter), 912...activated carbon filter, 913...blower fan

Claims

1. An air purifier comprising: a first housing having a first air intake port and a first exhaust port; a blower fan that converts air flowing in through the first air intake port into a swirling current and flows it in the direction of the first exhaust port; an ozone generating light source that irradiates the air flowing in through the first air intake port with ozone generating ultraviolet light to generate ozone; a first purification unit having an air-permeable first catalyst unit provided on the side of the first exhaust port and an air-permeable second catalyst unit provided on the inner peripheral edge of the first housing, wherein the first catalyst unit is constructed using an ozone decomposition catalyst that decomposes the ozone to generate active oxygen, and the second catalyst unit is constructed using a photocatalyst that promotes photodecomposition when irradiated with the ozone generating ultraviolet light; and a second purification unit having a second housing having a second air intake port and a second exhaust port and a germicidal ultraviolet light source that irradiates germicidal ultraviolet light with germicidal ultraviolet light on air flowing in through the second air intake port and flowing in the direction of the second exhaust port. An air purifying device, wherein an exhaust port of a former purification section of the first purification section and the second purification section is connected to an intake port of a latter purification section.

2. An air purifying device as described in claim 1, wherein the first housing has a cylindrical shape with the longitudinal direction extending from the first air intake port toward the first exhaust port, and between the ozone generating light source and the first exhaust port are a first mixing chamber and a second mixing chamber in which the generated ozone and the incoming air are mixed by the swirling flow to generate a mixed gas, the first mixing chamber is located close to a central axis along the longitudinal direction of the first housing and the second mixing chamber is located away from the central axis, a dividing wall is located between the first mixing chamber and the second mixing chamber, and the dividing wall has a through hole connecting the first mixing chamber and the second mixing chamber, and the second catalyst section is arranged to cover the through hole, and a portion of the swirling flow flows from the first mixing chamber to the second mixing chamber via the second catalyst section.

3. An air purifying device as described in claim 2, wherein the second catalyst section is arranged within the second mixing chamber along the outer periphery of the dividing wall from the through hole toward the first exhaust port, and a cover is provided on the outside of the second catalyst section, and the mixed gas that flows into the second catalyst section from the through hole is guided by the cover and flows out in the direction of the first exhaust port.

4. An air purifying device according to claim 3, wherein there are a plurality of covers, and when viewed in the longitudinal direction, the plurality of covers are provided along the outer periphery of the dividing wall at predetermined rotation angles.

5. An air purifying device according to claim 4, wherein a sound absorbing material is provided within the space surrounded by the cover, the partition wall and the first housing.

6. An air purifying device according to claim 1, wherein the first purifying section further comprises an air-permeable third catalyst section between the blower fan and the ozone generating light source, the third catalyst section being constructed using a photocatalyst that promotes photodecomposition when irradiated with the ozone generating ultraviolet light emitted from the ozone generating light source.

7. An air purifying device as defined in claim 1, wherein the first purification section is configured as a front stage and the second purification section is configured as a rear stage, and an air-permeable fourth catalyst section is further provided on the side of the first catalyst section that faces the second purification section, and the fourth catalyst section is configured using a photocatalyst that promotes photodecomposition when irradiated with the germicidal ultraviolet light emitted from the germicidal ultraviolet light source.

8. An air purifying device according to claim 7, further comprising an air-permeable fifth catalyst section between the first catalyst section and the fourth catalyst section, the fifth catalyst section being constructed using a catalyst other than the ozone decomposition catalyst and the photocatalyst.

9. An air purifying device as defined in claim 1, wherein a plurality of linear light sources are used as the germicidal ultraviolet light source, and the linear light sources are arranged so that their linear direction is along the longitudinal direction and are arranged at predetermined rotation angles when viewed from the longitudinal direction.

10. An air purifying device according to claim 9, wherein the second housing has a small wall on the inner surface near the end of the linear light source, and the small wall is configured to increase the residence time of air that flows in from the second air intake port and flows in the direction of the second air exhaust port.

11. An air purifying device according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of linear light sources are arranged so that the position of at least one end in the longitudinal direction is different.

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