JP2004220939A - Ion generator - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ion generator capable of using the serial data communication function of the USB for an application other than power supply to the ion generator. <P>SOLUTION: An ion detecting means 17 detects the quantity of ion and outputs an ion quantity detection signal to a micro computer 7 which transmits the ion quantity detection signal that is inputted to a host (not shown in figure) through a USB driver receiver 6 and the data terminal of a USB connector 1. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an ion generator that generates ions in air.
[0002]
[Prior art]
FIG. 13 shows a configuration example of a conventional ion generator. The conventional ion generator 21 uses the AC adapter 20 as a power supply. The conventional ion generator 21 includes a power supply circuit 22, a power supply control circuit 23, a plasma cluster ion circuit (hereinafter, referred to as a PCI circuit) 24, a heater resistor 25, a power supply circuit 26, and a microcomputer 27. A fan motor circuit 28 comprising a motor for rotating the fan and its driving circuit; an LED display circuit 29 comprising an LED and its driving circuit; and a key switch 30.
[0003]
The AC adapter 20 is connected to an AC voltage V input from a commercial power supply._ACIs converted to a DC voltage of 15 V and output to the ion generator 21. The power supply circuit 22 reduces the DC voltage of 15 V input from the AC adapter 20 to a DC voltage of 12 V, and then supplies the DC voltage to the power supply control circuit 23, the power supply circuit 26, and the fan motor circuit 28.
[0004]
The power supply circuit 26 converts the 12 V DC voltage input from the power supply circuit 22 into a 5 V DC voltage. The microcomputer 27 and the LED display circuit 29 use a DC voltage of 5 V output from the voltage circuit 26 as a drive voltage.
[0005]
The microcomputer 27 controls the power supply control circuit 23, the PCI circuit 24, and the fan motor circuit 28 according to a signal output from the key switch 30. Further, the microcomputer 27 controls the LED display circuit 29 based on the operation state. Thereby, the LED display circuit 29 can display the operation state.
[0006]
The power supply control circuit 23 converts the 12 V DC voltage input from the power supply circuit 22 into the PCI circuit DC voltage V_PCIAnd output. Further, the power supply control circuit 23 responds to a control signal output from the microcomputer 27 by_PCIVariable. Further, the power supply control circuit 23 responds to a control signal output from the microcomputer 27 by_PCITurn on and off.
[0007]
The PCI circuit 24 has a DC voltage V for the PCI circuit._PCITo generate ions. The PCI circuit 24 switches the operation mode according to the control signal uConP output from the microcomputer 27. The heater resistance 25 is a DC voltage V for a PCI circuit._PCIEnter to generate heat.
[0008]
The fan motor circuit 28 switches the fan motor circuit on and off according to a control signal output from the microcomputer 27.
[0009]
Subsequently, the circuit configuration of the PCI circuit in FIG. 13 is shown in FIG. One end of the resistor R11, one end of the relay coil 36, and the timing control circuit 31 are commonly connected._PCIIs applied. The other end of the resistor R11 is connected to one end of a primary winding of the transformer 32 and one end of a capacitor C11. From one end, the feedback voltage V is supplied to the timing control circuit 31._FBIs output. The other end of the primary winding of the transformer 32 is connected to the anode side of the thyristor 35. The cathode side of the thyristor 35 and the other end of the capacitor C11 are grounded. The gate of the thyristor 35 is connected to the timing control circuit 31. The other end of the relay coil 36 is connected to the microcomputer 27 (see FIG. 13). The microcomputer 27 (see FIG. 13) outputs a control signal uConP to the relay coil 36.
[0010]
A first ion generating electrode 33 is connected to one end of a secondary winding of the transformer 32, and a second ion generating electrode 34 is connected to the other end of the secondary winding of the transformer 32. The anode of the diode D11 is connected to the connection node between the other end of the secondary winding of the transformer 32 and the second ion generating electrode 34, and the cathode of the diode D11 is grounded via the relay switch 37. Note that a relay 38 is configured by the relay coil 36 and the relay switch 37.
[0011]
In the ion generator having such a configuration, when the power is supplied to the PCI circuit 24, the timing control circuit 31 outputs the feedback voltage V_FBIs compared with a predetermined comparison value, and a periodic pulse is output to the gate of the thyristor 35 when the voltage reaches the comparison value or more. As a result, the thyristor 35 is periodically turned on, and the electric charge charged in the capacitor C11 is periodically discharged through the primary winding of the transformer 32. As a result, an induced high voltage is periodically generated in the secondary winding of the transformer 32. Due to the periodically generated high voltage, ions are generated from the second ion generation electrode 34.
[0012]
In this state, when the relay 38 is OFF, positive ions and negative ions are generated between the first ion generating electrode 33 and the second ion generating electrode 34. By discharging the positive ions and the negative ions to the outside of the device in an air flow generated by a fan, it is possible to kill floating viruses outside the device and to remove and sterilize floating bacteria.
[0013]
Further, the ion generator having such a configuration generates negative ions between the first ion generation electrode 33 and the second ion generation electrode 34 when the relay 38 is ON in the continuous operation state. By releasing the negative ions in the air flow generated by the fan and discharging the negative ions to the outside of the apparatus, a relaxation effect can be given to people around the apparatus.
[0014]
The conventional ion generator 21 shown in FIG. 13 receives power from the AC adapter 20 as described above. For this reason, when a plurality of electric devices including the conventional ion generator shown in FIG. 13 are used at the same time, the outlet may be insufficient. There is also a problem that the power cord becomes complicated by using an AC adapter. In addition, since an AC adapter is required, there is a problem that the product cost is increased accordingly.
[0015]
In order to solve such a problem, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface may be mounted on the ion generator and connected to a host (for example, a personal computer or a game machine having a USB interface). As a USB-compatible electric device, for example, a camera disclosed in Patent Document 1 is cited.
[0016]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-10-232924
[0017]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, if the USB is used only for supplying power to the ion generator, there is a problem that the USB serial data communication function is not sufficiently utilized.
[0018]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide an ion generator and a host program that can use a USB serial data communication function for purposes other than power supply to the ion generator.
[0019]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, an ion generator according to the present invention includes a USB interface unit and an ion generation circuit that generates ions, wherein the ion generation circuit receives an external signal input to the USB interface unit. Is generated with an ion generation amount and / or ion type according to the above.
[0020]
In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the present invention provides a computer having a USB interface unit by recognizing an operation state and recognizing an ion generation amount and / or an ion type according to the operation state in advance. The recording means, and an ion generation amount and / or ion type corresponding to the operation state recognized by the recognition means are read from the recording means, and the read ion generation amount and / or ion type are read out via the USB interface unit. Output means.
[0021]
In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the present invention comprises a computer having a USB interface unit, a means for inputting an image signal, a recognizing means for recognizing a situation around the computer based on the image signal, Recording means for recording the amount of ions generated and / or the type of ions according to the situation around the computer; and the amount of ions produced and / or ions corresponding to the situation around the computer recognized by the recognizing means. A type is read out from the recording means, and the read out amount of ions and / or the type of the ions are output as means for outputting via the USB interface unit.
[0022]
By connecting the ion generator of the above configuration to a computer storing the above program by a USB cable, the USB is used for purposes other than power supply to the ion generator (control of the amount of ion generation and / or the type of ions to be generated). Serial data communication function can be used.
[0023]
In order to achieve the above object, an ion generator according to the present invention includes a USB interface unit, an ion generation circuit that generates ions, and ion detection means, wherein the USB interface unit includes the ion detection means. Is output to the outside. Further, in order to achieve the above object, in a program according to the present invention, a computer having a USB interface unit is provided with means for inputting an ion detection result via the USB interface unit, and an ion based on the ion detection result. Function as display means for displaying the amount.
[0024]
Thus, the USB serial data communication function can be used for applications other than power supply to the ion generator (display of the amount of ions).
[0025]
It should be noted that the computer referred to here includes a device equipped with a computer such as a game machine.
[0026]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a circuit block diagram of the ion generator according to the present invention.
[0027]
The ion generator according to the present invention receives power from a host via a USB cable. Then, the ion generator according to the present invention rotates the USB connector 1, the power supply circuit 2, the booster circuit 3, the PCI circuit 4, the heater resistor 5, the USB driver receiver 6, the microcomputer 7, and the fan. A fan motor circuit 8 including a motor to be driven and a driving circuit thereof, PNP transistors Tr1 to Tr3, and ion detecting means 17 are provided.
[0028]
The power supply circuit 2 receives a voltage applied to a power supply terminal of the USB connector 1 and converts the voltage to a DC voltage of 5V. The output side of the power supply circuit 2 includes a booster circuit 3 via a transistor Tr1, a USB driver receiver 6, a microcomputer 7, a fan motor circuit 8 via a transistor Tr2, a heater resistor 5 via a transistor Tr3, It is connected to the ion detecting means 17.
[0029]
The USB driver receiver 6, the microcomputer 7, and the ion detection unit 17 use a 5V DC voltage output from the power supply circuit 2 as a drive voltage. The microcomputer 7 performs serial data communication with the host via the USB driver receiver 6 and the data terminal of the USB connector 1, and according to the contents of the serial data communication, the booster circuit 3, the PCI circuit 4, the fan motor circuit 8, The transistors Tr1 to Tr3 are controlled. Further, the microcomputer 7 inputs data of the amount of ions detected by the ion detecting means 17 and outputs the data to the host via the USB driver receiver 6 and the data terminal of the USB connector 1.
[0030]
When the transistor Tr1 is ON, a 5V DC voltage is supplied to the booster circuit 3, and the booster circuit 3 converts the 5V DC voltage to a PCI circuit voltage V._PCIAnd supplies it to the PCI circuit 4, which generates ions. The PCI circuit 4 switches the operation mode according to the control signal uConP3 output from the microcomputer 7. Further, the amount of generated ions is varied according to a control signal uConP2 output from the microcomputer 7.
[0031]
When the transistor Tr2 is ON, a DC voltage of 5 V is supplied to the fan motor circuit 8, and the number of rotations of the fan is varied at a number of rotations according to a control signal output from the microcomputer 7. As a result, the air volume can be adjusted.
[0032]
When the transistor Tr3 is ON, a DC voltage of 5 V is supplied to the heater resistor 5, and the heater resistor 5 generates heat. The heater resistor 5 is disposed near the ion generating electrode body (not shown in FIG. 1) in the PCI circuit 4. Even if it is in a state, it can be returned to a normal state.
[0033]
Next, FIG. 2 shows a circuit configuration of the PCI circuit in FIG. One end of the resistor R1 and one end of the relay coil 13 are commonly connected, and a voltage V_PCIIs applied. The other end of the resistor R1 is connected to one end of a primary winding of the transformer 9 and one end of a capacitor C1. The other end of the primary winding of the transformer 9 is connected to the drain of the MOSFET 12. The source of MOSFET 12 and the other end of capacitor C1 are grounded. The gate of the MOSFET 12 is connected to one end of the resistor R2 and one end of the resistor R3. The other end of the resistor R2 is connected to the microcomputer 7 (see FIG. 1). The microcomputer 7 (see FIG. 1) outputs a control signal uConP2 to the MOSFET 12 via the resistor R2. The other end of the resistor R3 is grounded. Then, the other end of the relay coil 13 is connected to the microcomputer 7 (see FIG. 1). The microcomputer 7 (see FIG. 1) outputs a control signal uConP3 to the relay coil 13.
[0034]
The first ion generating electrode 10 is connected to one end of the secondary winding of the transformer 9, and the second ion generating electrode 11 is connected to the other end of the secondary winding of the transformer 9. The anode of the diode D1 is connected to the connection node between the other end of the secondary winding of the transformer 9 and the second ion generating electrode 11, and the cathode of the diode D1 is grounded via the relay switch 14. The relay 15 is constituted by the relay coil 13 and the relay switch 14.
[0035]
The ion detecting means 17 in FIG. 1 outputs a negative ion detection signal V corresponding to the amount of negative ions._MISAnd positive ion detection signal V according to the amount of positive ions_PISTo the microcomputer 7. Negative ion detection signal V_MISAnd positive ion detection signal V_PISIn each case, the output voltage increases when the amount of ions is large. Negative ion detection signal V input to microcomputer 7_MISAnd positive ion detection signal V_PISIs converted into a digital value by a built-in AD converter and stored in a built-in memory as an ion amount.
[0036]
In the ion generator having such a configuration, in a state where the PCI circuit 4 is turned on, the MOSFET 12 is periodically turned on / off by a pulse periodically output from the microcomputer, and the relay 15 is turned off. At this time, substantially equal amounts of positive ions and negative ions are generated between the first ion generating electrode 10 and the second ion generating electrode 11. Then, the positive ions and the negative ions are discharged to the outside of the apparatus in an air flow generated by a fan. H as a positive ion⁺(H₂O)_n(N is an arbitrary natural number) and O as a negative ion₂ ⁻(H₂O)_m(M is an arbitrary natural number), and these react chemically to form hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) And hydroxyl radicals / OH to remove airborne bacteria and airborne viruses in the air, thereby killing airborne viruses outside the device and removing and sterilizing airborne bacteria. Further, in the ion generator having such a configuration, when the power to the PCI circuit 4 is turned on, the MOSFET 12 repeatedly turns ON / OFF periodically, and when the relay 15 is ON, the negative ion is firstly output. It is generated between the ion generating electrode 10 and the second ion generating electrode 11. By releasing the negative ions in the air flow generated by the fan and discharging the negative ions to the outside of the apparatus, a relaxation effect can be given to people around the apparatus.
[0037]
The operation of the microcomputer 7 when the power is turned on in the ion generator having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When connected to the host via a USB cable, 5 V power is supplied from the host, and the microcomputer 7 starts operating.
[0038]
The microcomputer 7 determines whether an information request transmitted from the host has been received via the data terminal of the USB connector 1 and the USB driver receiver 6 (step S10). When receiving the information request transmitted from the host (Yes in step S10), the microcomputer 7 recognizes the information request including the supply current of the ion generator transmitted from the host (step S20).
[0039]
In the following step S30, the microcomputer 7 returns information including the necessity of supply current of 100 mA or more to the host via the data terminal of the USB connector 1 and the USB driver receiver 6.
[0040]
In the following step S40, the microcomputer 7 receives a command as to whether or not the host issues a supply current of 100 mA or more to the ion generator. In the step S50, it is determined whether or not the content of the received command permits the current supply of 100 mA or more.
[0041]
If the content of the received command permits a current supply of 100 mA or more (Yes in step S50), the microcomputer 7 determines to use the ion generator at 100 mA or more (step S70), and then returns to FIG. The operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, if the content of the received command does not permit the current supply of 100 mA or more (No in step S50), the microcomputer 7 determines to use the ion generator at 100 mA or less (step S60), and thereafter The operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is performed.
[0042]
Next, the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 performed after the processing of step S70 shown in FIG. 3 will be described. In step S100, the microcomputer 7 turns on the transistor Tr1. Thus, power supply to the booster circuit 3 and the PCI circuit 4 is started. The microcomputer 7 also turns on the transistor Tr3 (step S100). Thus, power supply to the heater resistor 5 is started. Thereafter, the microcomputer 7 waits for S seconds (S is a predetermined value) (step S110), and then turns on the transistor Tr2 (step S120). By turning on the transistor Tr2, power supply to the fan motor circuit 8 is started. Thereafter, normal operation is started.
[0043]
When the current supplied from the host is 100 mA or more, the operation as shown in FIG. 4 is performed so that the booster circuit 3, the PCI circuit 4, the heater resistor 5, and the fan motor circuit 8 are not simultaneously turned on. . As a result, the rush current can be reduced, and the rush current can be kept within the allowable value of the USB standard.
[0044]
After the process of step S70 shown in FIG. 3, the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 may be performed instead of the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. Hereinafter, the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 will be described. In step S200, the microcomputer 7 turns on the transistor Tr3. Thus, power supply to the heater resistor 5 is started. Then, after waiting for T seconds (T is a predetermined value) (step S210), the microcomputer 7 turns on the transistor Tr1. Turning on the transistor Tr1 starts power supply to the booster circuit 3 and the PCI circuit 4. Thereafter, the microcomputer 7 waits for S seconds (S is a predetermined value) (step S230), and then turns on the transistor Tr2 (step S240). By turning on the transistor Tr2, power supply to the fan motor circuit 8 is started. Thereafter, normal operation is started.
[0045]
By performing the operation as shown in FIG. 5 when the current supplied from the host is 100 mA or more, the booster circuit 3, the PCI circuit 4, the heater resistor 5, and the fan motor circuit 8 are not simultaneously turned on. As a result, the rush current can be reduced, and the rush current can be kept within the allowable value of the USB standard. Furthermore, since the ion is generated after the ion generating electrode body in the PCI circuit 4 is heated by the heater resistor 5, the ion generating electrode body is used in a cold region or the like, and the ion generating electrode body is frozen at the start of operation or dew condensation occurs. Accordingly, even in an abnormal state such as a state where water droplets adhere to the ion generating electrode body, discharge failure is eliminated.
[0046]
In the present embodiment, the timing at which the transistors Tr1 to Tr3 are turned on is shifted by software using the microcomputer 7, but the timing at which the transistors Tr1 to Tr3 are turned on may be shifted by hardware using a delay circuit or the like. .
[0047]
Next, the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 performed after the processing of step S60 shown in FIG. 3 will be described. In step S300, the microcomputer 7 sends a command to the host via the USB driver receiver 6 and the data terminal of the USB connector 1 to notify the host that the operation is performed at 100 mA or less. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the mode data has been received (step S310).
[0048]
The host receives the command transmitted by the microcomputer 7 and displays a mode selection screen for instructing an operation on the monitor, and prompts the user to select a mode. When the user selects a mode on the monitor of the host, the host transmits the mode data selected by the user to the ion generator via the USB cable.
[0049]
When receiving the mode data (Yes in step S310), the microcomputer 7 analyzes the mode data and determines which mode is set (step S320).
[0050]
If the mode is mode 1, the microcomputer 7 turns on the transistor Tr1, turns on the transistor Tr3, and turns off the transistor Tr2 (step S330). As a result, no current is consumed by the fan motor circuit 8, so that the current consumption of the entire ion generator can be suppressed to 100 mA or less. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the ion generator from becoming inoperable when the host does not permit supply of a current of 100 mA or more. Thereafter, normal operation is started.
[0051]
If the mode is mode 2, the microcomputer 7 turns on the transistors Tr1, Tr2 and Tr3 and turns off the relay 15 (step S340). By turning off the relay 15, the current consumption of the PCI circuit 4 can be reduced, so that the current consumption of the entire ion generator can be suppressed to 100 mA or less. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the ion generator from becoming inoperable when the host does not permit supply of a current of 100 mA or more. In addition, when the microcomputer 7 turns off the relay 15, the ion generator eventually enters the plasma cluster ion operation mode. Thereafter, normal operation is started.
[0052]
If the mode is mode 3, the microcomputer 7 turns on the transistors Tr1 and Tr2 and turns off the transistor Tr3 (step S350). As a result, no current is consumed by the heater resistor 5, so that the current consumption of the entire ion generator can be suppressed to 100 mA or less. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the ion generator from becoming inoperable when the host does not permit supply of a current of 100 mA or more. Thereafter, normal operation is started.
[0053]
In step S330, instead of turning off the transistor Tr2, the transistor Tr2 may be turned on, and the fan motor circuit 8 may be controlled to operate with a reduced airflow. Examples of motor control performed by the drive circuit in the fan motor circuit 8 include PWM control.
[0054]
In step S350, instead of turning off the transistor Tr3, the transistor Tr3 may be turned on and the heater resistor 5 may be controlled so as to increase the resistance value of the heater resistor 5. In this case, the heater resistor 5 may be composed of a plurality of resistors and at least one switch element controlled by the microcomputer 7. Further, in this case, the configuration may be such that the transistor Tr3 is not provided.
[0055]
In this embodiment, the user selects the mode on the monitor of the host. However, a key switch for mode washing is provided in the ion generator, and the microcomputer 7 operates in response to a signal output from the key switch. May be determined. In this case, information set by the key switch can be notified to the host via the USB interface. Alternatively, only one type of mode may be provided without providing a plurality of modes, and the microcomputer 7 may store the one type of mode in advance.
[0056]
Next, control of the ion generation amount, control of the operation mode, and display of the ion generation amount during normal operation will be described. Since the control of the ion generation amount, the control of the operation mode, and the display of the ion generation amount are performed by the host, here, the configuration of the host will be described first. In the following description, a personal computer will be described as an example of the host. FIG. 7 shows the configuration of the personal computer as the host. The personal computer includes a bus 40, a CPU (Central Processor Unit) 41 for controlling the entire personal computer, an input device 42 such as a keyboard, a display device 43 such as a CRT or an LCD, a USB interface 44, and a CPU 41 for generating ions. The memory 45 stores programs and data for performing the amount control operation, the operation mode control operation, and the ion generation amount display operation, the USB connectors 46 and 47 connected to the USB interface 44, and the image processing circuit 48. Is done. The input device 42, the display device 43, the USB interface 44, the memory 45, and the image processing circuit 48 are connected to the CPU 41 via the bus 40. The CPU 41 may be configured to perform image processing using image processing software without providing the image processing circuit 48.
[0057]
1 is connected to the USB connector 46 via a USB cable, and a USB-compatible camera is connected to the USB connector 47 via a USB cable.
[0058]
Next, the operation of the CPU 41 when the ion generator starts the normal operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, the CPU 41 determines whether there is no input from the input device 42 for a predetermined period (step S400). If there is no input from the input device 42 for a predetermined period (Yes in step S400), the CPU 41 shifts to the screen saver mode. That is, the CPU 41 causes the display device 43 to display a screen saver screen (S410). Thereafter, the CPU 41 reads out the ion generation data corresponding to the screen saver mode stored in the memory 45 in advance, and transmits the ion generation data to the ion generator via the USB interface 44 and the USB connector 46 (S420). . Thereafter, it is monitored whether there is an input from the input device 42 (step S430). If there is an input from the input device 42 (Yes in step S430), the CPU 41 stops the screen saver mode. That is, the CPU 41 causes the display device 43 to stop displaying the screen saver screen (S440). Then, the CPU 41 transmits a screen saver mode stop command to the ion generator via the USB interface 44 and the USB connector 46 (step S450), and proceeds to step S400.
[0059]
The operation of the microcomputer 7 in the ion generator corresponding to the operation of the CPU 41 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0060]
At the start of the normal operation, the microcomputer 7 controls the PCI circuit 4 so that a predetermined amount of ions is generated. Then, the microcomputer 7 determines whether or not the ion generation data transmitted from the personal computer as the host has been received (step S500). When receiving the ion generation data (Yes in step S500), the microcomputer 7 controls the PCI circuit 4 based on the received ion generation data to change the ion generation amount (step S510). Thereafter, the microcomputer 7 determines whether or not a command to stop the screen saver has been received (step S520). If a command to stop the screen saver is received (Yes in step S520), the microcomputer 7 controls the PCI circuit 4 so that the predetermined amount of ions is generated (step S530), and then proceeds to step S500.
[0061]
The CPU 41 in the personal computer serving as the host performs the flowchart operation shown in FIG. 10 together with the flowchart operation shown in FIG. The user can switch the ON / OFF of the image sensing operation setting by operating the input device 42. The CPU 41 determines whether or not the image sensing operation setting is ON (step S600).
[0062]
If the image sensing operation setting is ON (Yes in step S600), the CPU 41 inputs an image signal output from the camera at predetermined intervals through the USB connector 47, the USB interface 44, and the bus 40, and outputs the image signal. It is detected whether there is a change in the camera image obtained from the signal (step S610). If there is a change in the camera image (Yes in step S610), the CPU 41 captures the latest image (step S620), and recognizes the situation around the host by the image processing circuit 48 (step S630). In the present embodiment, (1) a pattern for recognizing that there are a plurality of persons in the room, (2) a pattern for recognizing that a person is sitting in front of the host, and (3) a registration in front of the host by the image processing circuit 48. It is possible to recognize three patterns, that is, a pattern for recognizing that the person who is sitting is sitting.
[0063]
If the result of the image recognition is (1) a pattern for recognizing that there are a plurality of persons in the room ((1) in step S640), the data for setting the ion generator to the sterilization operation mode is transmitted to the USB interface 44 and the USB connector. The data is transmitted to the ion generator through 46 (step S650), and then the process proceeds to step S600.
[0064]
If the result of the image recognition is (2) a pattern for recognizing that a person is sitting in front of the host ((2) in step S640), the data for setting the ion generator to the relaxation operation mode is transmitted to the USB interface 44 and the USB interface 44. The data is transmitted to the ion generator via the USB connector 46 (step S660), and then the process proceeds to step S600.
[0065]
If the result of the image recognition is (3) a pattern for recognizing that the registered person is sitting in front of the host ((3) in step S640), the pattern is determined according to the registrant stored in the memory 45 in advance. The setting data is transmitted to the ion generator via the USB interface 44 and the USB connector 46 (step S670), and then the process proceeds to step S600.
[0066]
If it does not correspond to the above three patterns in step S630, the process immediately proceeds to step S600.
[0067]
In the ion generator of FIG. 1, the microcomputer 7 receives the setting data transmitted from the personal computer of FIG. 7 via the data terminal of the USB connector 1 and the USB driver receiver 6, and based on the received setting data. To control the PCI circuit 4.
[0068]
When receiving the data for setting the relaxation operation mode, the microcomputer 7 controls the PCI circuit 4 so that the relay 15 is turned on. When receiving the setting data corresponding to the registrant, the microcomputer 7 controls the relay 15 and the MOSFET 12 in the PCI circuit 4 in accordance with the received data. When the microcomputer 7 receives the data for setting the sterilization operation mode, the microcomputer 7 controls the PCI circuit 4 so that the relay 15 is turned off.
[0069]
In the case where data transmitted from the personal computer to the ion generator by the operation of the flowchart in FIG. 8 conflicts with data transmitted from the personal computer to the ion generator by the operation of the flowchart in FIG. In the case where the ion generation amount is changed), which is to be prioritized may be determined in advance, and the priority may be stored in the memory 45 of the ion generator in advance.
[0070]
As described above, the personal computer performs the control of the ion generation amount according to the use state of the personal computer and the operation mode control according to the camera image to the ion generator via the USB. It is used for purposes other than power supply to the ion generator.
[0071]
Control of the amount of generated ions in the ion generator will be described. The microcomputer 7 outputs the control signal uConP2 shown in FIG. 11 to the MOSFET 12 in the PCI circuit 4. The microcomputer 7 controls the amount of generated ions by fixing the High level period t1 of the control signal uConP2 shown in FIG. 11 and changing the Low level period t2. In addition, if the Low level period t2 is lengthened, the amount of generated ions decreases.
[0072]
Also, the amount of ion generation can be controlled by using the PCI circuit shown in FIG. 12 instead of the PCI circuit shown in FIG. Here, the PCI circuit of FIG. 12 will be described. In FIG. 12, the same parts as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The PCI circuit of FIG. 12 has a configuration in which a step-down circuit 16 is newly provided in the PCI circuit of FIG. The step-down circuit 16_PCIIs input, and V is controlled according to a control signal uConP4 output from the microcomputer 7._PCIAnd outputs it to the next-stage resistor R1. When the microcomputer 7 increases the step-down amount of the step-down circuit 16 by the control signal uConP4, the output voltage of the step-down circuit 16 decreases, and the amount of generated ions decreases. At this time, the Low level period t2 of uConP2 output from the microcomputer 7 is fixed to a predetermined value. Further, by combining uConP2 and uConP4, the amount of generated ions can be varied.
[0073]
The PCI circuit shown in FIG. 14 requires a timing control circuit. However, in the configurations of the PCI circuits shown in FIGS. 2 and 12, the microcomputer 7 plays a role of the timing control circuit, so that the timing control circuit becomes unnecessary. As a result, the number of components mounted on the substrate is reduced, and downsizing and cost reduction can be achieved. Further, since the microcomputer 7 generates the control signal uConP2 based on the oscillation signal of the connected oscillator, the error of the signal waveform of the control signal uConP2 is small. Thereby, the accuracy of the ion generation amount control can be improved.
[0074]
During the normal operation of the ion generator, the microcomputer 7 sends the positive ion detection signal V_PISAnd negative ion detection signal V_MISIs input, and the input positive ion detection signal V_PISAnd negative ion detection signal V_MISIs transmitted to the personal computer via the USB driver receiver 6 and the data terminal of the USB connector 1. The CPU 41 of the personal computer receives the positive ion detection signal V via the USB connector 46 and the USB interface 44._PISAnd negative ion detection signal V_MISAnd the received positive ion detection signal V_PISAnd negative ion detection signal V_MISIs displayed graphically on the display device 43 based on.
[0075]
In this way, the ion generator outputs the positive ion detection signal V via the USB._PISAnd negative ion detection signal V_MISTo the personal computer, and the personal computer receives the positive ion detection signal V_PISAnd negative ion detection signal V_{M IS}Since the ion amount is displayed based on the above, the USB serial data communication function is used for purposes other than power supply to the ion generator.
[0076]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an ion generator and a host program that can use the USB serial data communication function for purposes other than power supply to the ion generator.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an ion generator according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a plasma cluster ion circuit included in the ion generator of FIG.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation of a microcomputer included in the ion generator of FIG.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of a microcomputer provided in the ion generator of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a microcomputer included in the ion generator of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of a microcomputer provided in the ion generator of FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a personal computer as a host.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation of a CPU included in the personal computer of FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a microcomputer included in the ion generator of FIG. 1;
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation of a CPU included in the personal computer of FIG. 7;
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a waveform of a signal for controlling the amount of generated ions.
12 is a diagram showing another configuration of the plasma cluster ion circuit included in the ion generator of FIG.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a configuration of a conventional ion generator.
14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a plasma cluster ion circuit provided in the conventional ion generator of FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 USB connector
2 Power supply circuit
3 Boost circuit
4 Plasma cluster ion circuit (PCI circuit)
5 Heater resistance
6 USB driver receiver
7 Microcomputer
8. Fan motor circuit
9 Transformer
10 First ion generating electrode
11 Second ion generating electrode
12 MOSFET
13 Relay switch
14 relay coil
15 Relay
16 Step-down circuit
17 Ion detection means
Tr1 to Tr3 transistors
R1 to R3 resistance
C1 capacitor
D1 diode

Claims (5)

A USB interface unit and an ion generation circuit that generates ions,
An ion generator, wherein the ion generation circuit generates ions in accordance with an ion generation amount and / or type according to an external signal input to the USB interface unit. A computer having a USB interface unit;
Recognition means for recognizing an operation state;
A recording unit for pre-recording the ion generation amount / or the type of ion corresponding to the operation state, and reading out the ion generation amount / or the type of the ion corresponding to the operation state recognized by the recognition unit from the recording unit; Means for outputting the read ion generation amount and / or ion type via the USB interface unit;
Program to function as A computer having a USB interface unit;
Means for inputting an image signal,
Recognition means for recognizing a situation around the computer based on the image signal;
Recording means for recording the amount of ion generation and / or the type of ions according to the situation around the computer when recognized by the recognition means, and ion generation corresponding to the situation around the computer recognized by the recognition means Means for reading out the amount / type of ions from the recording means and outputting the read out amount / type of ions through the USB interface unit;
Program to function as A USB interface unit, an ion generation circuit for generating ions, and ion detection means,
The said USB interface part outputs the detection result of the said ion detection means to the exterior, The ion generator characterized by the above-mentioned. A computer having a USB interface unit;
Means for inputting an ion detection result via the USB interface unit, and display means for displaying an ion amount based on the ion detection result,
Program to function as

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