JP2005327696A - Ion generating device and electric equipment equipped with this - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ion generating device which can emit both ions of positive ion and negative ion stably even in a high humid environment without making the device large-sized, and an electric equipment having this. <P>SOLUTION: A switch 17 for switching over in order to make the absolute value of a voltage impressed between a discharge electrode 12a and an induction electrode 12b of a second discharge part 12 larger than or nearly same as the absolute value of the voltage impressed between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of a first discharge part 11 is installed in a voltage impression circuit 20a which impresses a prescribed voltage between the first discharge part 11 and the second discharge part 12, so that a positive ion may be emitted from the first discharge part 11 of an ion generating element 10 and a negative ion may be emitted from the second discharge part 12. A microcomputer 30 controls the switch 17 based on the humidity data from a humidity sensor 31 and switches over in order to give discharge energy of a capacitor 4 to any of primary coils of step-up transformers 9, 29 having different transforming ratio. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an ion generator capable of decomposing bacteria, fungi, harmful substances, etc. floating in the air by releasing positive ions and negative ions into the space, and an electric device equipped with the same. is there. In addition, as an example applicable to the above-mentioned electrical equipment, it is mainly a closed space (inside a house, one room in a building, a hospital room or operating room, a car, an airplane, a ship, a warehouse, a refrigerator, etc.) Examples thereof include air conditioners, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, air purifiers, refrigerators, fan heaters, microwave ovens, washing / drying machines, vacuum cleaners, and sterilizers that release positive ions and negative ions.

Positive ions and negative ions are released, and positive ions H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m and negative ions O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (m and n are By generating approximately the same amount of natural number), both ions surround the airborne fungi and viruses in the air, and the action of the active species hydroxyl radical (.OH) generated at that time causes the airborne fungi The inventors have already made inventions relating to ion generators that can inactivate and the like (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  The above-described invention has already been put into practical use by the applicant of the present application. The practical machine includes an ion generator having a structure in which a discharge electrode is disposed outside and a induction electrode is disposed on the inside, with a ceramic dielectric interposed therebetween, and this There are air cleaners and air conditioners equipped with.

  However, the ion generator that can inactivate the above-mentioned floating molds, etc., by generating both positive ions and negative ions at the same time, some of the bipolar ions are neutralized and disappeared with the generation. There was a problem of being. In view of this problem, the present inventors have made an invention relating to an ion generator, and a patent application (Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-137098) relating to such an invention has already been made by the present applicant.

  The ion generating apparatus according to the patent application suppresses neutralization and disappearance of generated positive ions and negative ions in the vicinity of the electrode of the ion generating element, and effectively releases the generated bipolar ions to the space. In addition, instead of using a single ion generating element to generate positive ions and negative ions alternately at a predetermined cycle, positive ions and negative ions are individually generated using a plurality of ion generating elements or an ion generating element having a plurality of discharge units. And a system in which each is independently released into the room (hereinafter referred to as an ion independent emission system).

  By adopting such a configuration, taking advantage of the independent ion emission method, efficient and well-balanced ion emission can be achieved by suppressing the attenuation of positive ions and negative ions generated by multiple ion generating elements or multiple discharge parts. Can be done.

Further, the present applicant applied a voltage to an ion generating element having an electrode to form H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _n (n is a natural number) as positive ions and O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _m (n as negative ions). In an ion generator having a configuration in which m is a natural number), by providing a heating means for heating the ion generating element, the relative humidity in the vicinity of the electrode is reduced, so that the humidity in the use environment is reduced. An ion generator that stably generates negative ions and positive ions without being influenced has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

  In addition, heater wiring is provided on the discharge surface of the creeping corona discharge element, and the discharge surface is heated from 150 ° C. to 300 ° C. when the creeping corona discharge element is not discharged, so that ammonium nitrate adhering to the discharge surface is the main component. There is a creeping corona discharge element that decomposes and removes deposits (see, for example, Patent Document 4).

In addition, a bare electrode for applying a bias voltage is provided on a dielectric in which at least two electrodes for applying an AC voltage are embedded, a heating element for heating the dielectric, and humidity detecting means for detecting humidity, There is a discharge device provided with a control means for controlling the heating element by the output of the humidity detection means (see, for example, Patent Document 5).
JP 2003-47651 A JP 2002-319472 A JP 2003-123939 A JP-A-5-166578 JP-A-63-129362

  However, in a high-humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more), when generating positive ions and negative ions at the same time in order to inactivate floating molds and the like in the ion generator employing the above-described independent ion release method, The amount of negative ions emitted tends to be more unstable than the discharge at the ion generating element or discharge part on the side that emits positive ions. There was a problem that the negative ions were reduced or almost no negative ions were released.

  With respect to this problem, according to the prior art described in Patent Document 3, the relative humidity in the vicinity of the electrode can be reduced by the heating means, so that negative ions and positive ions can be stabilized even in a high humidity environment. However, when a resistance that is a heating means is provided in the ion generator employing the above-described independent ion emission method, an ion generating element or discharge unit on the side from which negative ions are emitted and positive ions are emitted. There is a problem that it is necessary to provide resistance to both the ion generating element or the discharge part on the side to be operated, and the ion generating apparatus becomes large.

  Moreover, according to the prior art described in Patent Document 4, by heating the heater wiring, it is possible to decompose and remove deposits mainly composed of ammonium nitrate attached to the discharge surface, and to reduce the humidity near the discharge surface. However, when the heater wiring is provided in the ion generator employing the above-described ion independent emission method, the ion generating element or discharge unit on the side that emits negative ions, and the ion generating element or discharge on the side that releases positive ions There is a problem that it is necessary to provide heater wiring in both of the parts, and the ion generator becomes large.

  Further, according to the prior art described in Patent Document 5, heating the heating element enables dehumidification around the electrodes, so that stable discharge can be performed even in a high humidity environment. When an exothermic body is provided in an ion generator that employs the independent ion emission method, both the ion generating element or discharge unit that emits negative ions and the ion generating element or discharge unit that emits positive ions There was a problem that it was necessary to provide a heating element and the size of the ion generator would be large.

  In view of the above-described problems, the present invention provides an ion generator that can stably emit both positive ions and negative ions even in a high humidity environment without increasing the size, and an electric generator including the same. The purpose is to provide equipment.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an ion generating apparatus comprising: a first discharge unit that generates positive ions that are attached to or printed on a single substrate; a second discharge unit that generates negative ions; Each of the first and second discharge parts are on the same surface of the base material and are arranged separately and independently, and the first and second of the ion generation elements A voltage application circuit connected to the two discharge parts, the voltage application circuit applies a predetermined voltage to the first and second discharge parts, and the second discharge electrode and the second induction of the second discharge part The absolute value of the voltage applied between the electrodes is made larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the discharge in the second discharge part that emits negative ions from becoming more unstable than the discharge in the first discharge part that emits positive ions. Therefore, for example, even when used in a high-humidity environment, it is possible to prevent the amount of negative ions released from being reduced or to prevent almost all negative ions from being released.

  Moreover, this invention is an ion generator. WHEREIN: At least 1 1st discharge part which generate | occur | produces the positive ion attached or printed on one base material, and 2nd discharge part which generate | occur | produces a negative ion at least 1 each. The first and second discharge parts are both on the same surface of the base material and are connected to the first and second discharge parts of the ion generation element and the ion generation elements arranged separately and independently. And a humidity detecting means for detecting the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element, wherein the voltage applying circuit applies a predetermined voltage to the first and second discharge parts, and the humidity detecting means When the value detected in the step is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode of the second discharge part and the second induction electrode is the same as that of the first discharge electrode of the first discharge part. So as to be larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied to one induction electrode One in which the.

  According to such a configuration, when used in a high humidity environment, the discharge in the second discharge part that emits negative ions becomes more unstable than the discharge in the first discharge part that releases positive ions. Is suppressed, and the amount of negative ions released can be reduced, or it can be prevented that almost no negative ions are released. That is, both positive ions and negative ions can be stably released even in a high humidity environment. Also, when used in a low-humidity environment, by preventing the applied voltage to the second discharge part from becoming large, it is possible to prevent the amount of ozone generated in the second discharge part from increasing and the discharge sound from becoming high. The absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge part is applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part. If the absolute value of the voltage is made substantially the same, approximately the same amount of negative ions and positive ions can be released.

  For example, the voltage application circuit includes a secondary winding having both ends connected to the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode, and the primary winding is given the discharge energy of the first capacitor. A step-up transformer, a second step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode and having a transformation ratio substantially equal to that of the first step-up transformer; and a second discharge electrode And a second winding having both ends connected to the second induction electrode and a third step-up transformer having a larger transformation ratio than the first step-up transformer, and a primary winding to which discharge energy of the first capacitor is given Is preferably provided with first switching means for switching to either the primary winding of the second step-up transformer or the primary winding of the third step-up transformer.

  According to such a configuration, when the first switching means is switched so that the discharge energy of the first capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the second step-up transformer, the secondary of the second step-up transformer. The voltage induced in the winding and the voltage induced in the secondary winding of the first step-up transformer are substantially the same and are applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge unit. And the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge portion are substantially equal. On the other hand, when the first switching means is switched so that the discharge energy of the first capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the third step-up transformer, it is induced in the secondary winding of the third step-up transformer. Is larger than the voltage induced in the secondary winding of the first step-up transformer, and the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge unit is The absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part becomes larger.

  In addition, for example, the voltage application circuit is configured such that when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the discharge energy of the first capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the third step-up transformer. It is preferable to have control means for controlling the switching means.

  According to such a configuration, the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge portion when the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element becomes high by the control means. The first switching means is switched so that the absolute value of is greater than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part.

  Further, for example, the voltage application circuit includes a secondary winding having both ends connected to the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode, and the primary winding is supplied with the discharge energy of the second capacitor. A step-up transformer, a fifth step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode and having characteristics substantially equivalent to those of the fourth step-up transformer, a second capacitor, The third capacitor having substantially the same capacity, the fourth capacitor having a larger capacity than the second capacitor, and the discharge energy given to the primary winding of the fifth step-up transformer are the discharge energy of the third capacitor and the fourth It is good to have the 2nd switching means switched to either of the discharge energy of a capacitor | condenser.

  According to such a configuration, when the second switching means is switched so that the discharge energy of the third capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the fifth step-up transformer, the secondary of the fifth step-up transformer. The voltage induced in the winding and the voltage induced in the secondary winding of the fourth step-up transformer are substantially the same, and are applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge part. And the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge portion are substantially equal. On the other hand, when the second switching means is switched so that the discharge energy of the fourth capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the fifth step-up transformer, it is induced in the secondary winding of the fifth step-up transformer. Is larger than the voltage induced in the secondary winding of the fourth step-up transformer, and the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge unit is The absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part becomes larger.

  Further, for example, the voltage application circuit may be configured such that when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the discharge energy of the fourth capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the fifth step-up transformer. It is preferable to have control means for controlling the switching means.

  According to such a configuration, the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge portion when the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element becomes high by the control means. Is switched so that the absolute value of becomes larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part.

  Moreover, this invention is an ion generator. WHEREIN: At least 1 1st discharge part which generate | occur | produces the positive ion attached or printed on one base material, and 2nd discharge part which generate | occur | produces a negative ion at least 1 each. And the first and second discharge parts are both on the same surface of the substrate and are separately and independently arranged, and a voltage for applying a pulse voltage to the first and second discharge parts. An application circuit; and humidity detection means for detecting humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element, wherein the voltage application circuit detects the number of application times per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first and second discharge units. It is characterized by having an application frequency changing means for changing based on the value detected by the means.

  According to such a configuration, the number of application times per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first and second discharge portions of the ion generating element can be changed based on the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element. Accordingly, when the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element becomes high, the discharge in the second discharge part that emits negative ions becomes more unstable than the discharge in the first discharge part that emits positive ions. The number of application of the pulse voltage can be increased to reduce the amount of negative ions to be released or prevent negative ions from being almost released. In addition, when using in a low humidity environment, change the number of pulse voltages applied to each discharge unit per unit time so that it is less than when used in a high humidity environment. It is possible to prevent the amount of ozone generated in the discharge part from increasing and the discharge sound from becoming high.

  Further, for example, the application number changing means may increase the number of application times per unit time of the pulse voltage when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is a predetermined value or more. In this way, when the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element is lower than the predetermined humidity, the number of application times per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first and second discharge parts of the ion generating element is not increased, and the ion generating element When the humidity in the vicinity is equal to or higher than a predetermined humidity, the number of times the pulse voltage is applied per unit time can be increased.

  For example, the voltage application circuit includes a sixth step-up transformer having a secondary winding having both ends connected to the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge unit, and the second discharge unit of the second discharge unit. And a seventh step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the two discharge electrodes and the second induction electrode, and the application number changing means charges the fifth capacitor via the first resistor. The first capacitor in which the discharge energy of the fifth capacitor charged to a predetermined voltage is applied to the primary windings of the sixth and seventh step-up transformers, and the sixth capacitor is charged via the second resistor. A third switching means for switching between a second state in which the discharge energy of the sixth capacitor charged to the predetermined voltage is applied to the primary windings of the sixth and seventh step-up transformers; and the humidity detecting means. When the detected value is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, the second Control means for controlling the third switching means so as to switch to the state, and the time constant of the series circuit of the second resistor and the sixth capacitor is that of the series circuit of the first resistor and the fifth capacitor. It should be smaller than the time constant.

  According to such a configuration, when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is less than the predetermined value, the first state is switched, and the discharge energy of the fifth capacitor charged to the predetermined voltage is the sixth and seventh. A pulse voltage applied to the primary winding of the step-up transformer and induced in the secondary winding of the sixth step-up transformer is applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge unit, A pulse voltage induced in the secondary winding of the seventh step-up transformer is applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge unit.

  On the other hand, when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, the second state is switched, and the discharge energy of the sixth capacitor charged to the predetermined voltage is changed to the sixth and seventh step-up transformers. A pulse voltage applied to the primary winding and induced in the secondary winding of the sixth step-up transformer is applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge section, and the seventh step-up voltage is applied. A pulse voltage induced in the secondary winding of the transformer is applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge unit.

  Here, since the time constant of the series circuit of the second resistor and the sixth capacitor is smaller than the time constant of the series circuit of the first resistor and the fifth capacitor, the sixth capacitor reaches the predetermined voltage. The time for charging is shorter than the time for charging the fifth capacitor to the predetermined voltage. Accordingly, per unit time of the pulse voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part and between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge part. The number of times of application increases when the state is switched to the second state, that is, when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

  Further, for example, when the capacity of the sixth capacitor is larger than the capacity of the fifth capacitor, the second discharge electrode of the second discharge section and between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge section. The absolute value of the pulse voltage applied between the first induction electrode and the second induction electrode is the first value in the second state, that is, when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is equal to or greater than the predetermined value. That is, when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is not greater than or equal to the predetermined value.

Moreover, the ion generating device having the above structure, the H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m occurred as positive ions, O ₂ as negative ions _{^{- (H 2 O) n (}} m, n are natural numbers, H ₂ O molecules Means that a plurality of are attached). In this way, H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m and O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n are simultaneously generated in the air, so that both ions adhere to airborne bacteria in the air and are generated at that time. The floating bacteria and the like can be inactivated by the action of the active species hydroxyl group (.OH).

  Moreover, it is preferable that the electrical apparatus according to the present invention includes an ion generator having any one of the above-described configurations and a sending unit (for example, a blower fan) that sends ions generated by the ion generator into the air. . By adopting such a configuration, in addition to the original functions of the device, it is possible to change the amount of ions in the air and the ion balance with the installed ion generator to bring the indoor environment to a desired atmospheric state. Become.

  According to the present invention, the ion generator has at least one first discharge unit that generates positive ions that are attached or printed on one base material and one second discharge unit that generates negative ions. The first and second discharge parts are both connected to the ion generating element disposed on the same surface of the base material and separated and independently, and the first and second discharging parts of the ion generating element. And a humidity detecting means for detecting the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element. The voltage applying circuit applies a predetermined voltage to the first and second discharge parts, and the humidity detecting means When the detected value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge unit is the first discharge electrode of the first discharge unit and the first value. To be larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied to the induction electrode Since the can to prevent the discharge in the second discharge portion for emitting negative ions becomes unstable than the discharge in the first discharge portion for emitting positive ions. Therefore, for example, even when used in a high humidity environment, the amount of negative ions released can be reduced or almost no negative ions can be released without increasing the size of the ion generator. it can.

  Further, according to the present invention, in the ion generator, at least one of a first discharge part that generates positive ions attached or printed on one base material and a second discharge part that generates negative ions is provided. The first and second discharge portions are both on the same surface of the base material and are arranged separately and independently, and the first and second discharge portions of the ion generation device. A connected voltage application circuit; and humidity detection means for detecting humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element, wherein the voltage application circuit applies a predetermined voltage to the first and second discharge units to detect the humidity. When the value detected by the means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge part is the first discharge electrode of the first discharge part. It is larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first induction electrode Since it did in this way, when using it in a high humidity environment, it is suppressed that the discharge in the 2nd discharge part which discharge | releases a negative ion becomes unstable rather than the discharge in the 1st discharge part which discharge | releases a positive ion. Thus, it is possible to prevent the amount of negative ions to be reduced or to prevent almost all negative ions from being released. That is, it is possible to stably release both positive ions and negative ions even in a high humidity environment without increasing the size of the ion generator. Further, when used in a low humidity environment, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge part is the same as that of the first discharge electrode of the first discharge part. While switching to be substantially the same as the absolute value of the voltage applied to the first induction electrode, it is possible to prevent the amount of ozone generated in the first discharge part from increasing and the discharge sound from increasing. About the same amount of negative ions and positive ions can be released.

  Further, according to the present invention, in the ion generator, at least one of a first discharge part that generates positive ions attached or printed on one base material and a second discharge part that generates negative ions is provided. Each of the first and second discharge portions applies a pulse voltage to the ion generating element and the first and second discharge portions that are disposed on the same surface of the base material and are separated and independently disposed. A voltage application circuit; and humidity detection means for detecting humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element, wherein the voltage application circuit determines the number of times the pulse voltage is applied per unit time based on the value detected by the humidity detection means. Since the application frequency changing means is changed, the application frequency per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first and second discharge portions of the ion generating element is changed based on the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element. about It can be. Accordingly, when the humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element becomes high, the discharge in the second discharge part that emits negative ions becomes more unstable than the discharge in the first discharge part that emits positive ions. The number of application of the pulse voltage per unit time can be increased to prevent the amount of negative ions to be released or prevent negative ions from being almost released. In addition, when using in a low humidity environment, change the number of pulse voltages applied to each discharge unit per unit time so that it is less than when used in a high humidity environment. It is possible to prevent the amount of ozone generated in the discharge part from increasing and the discharge sound from becoming high. That is, it is possible to stably release both positive ions and negative ions even in a high humidity environment without increasing the size of the ion generator. An ion generator that can prevent the generation amount from increasing or the discharge sound from increasing can be realized.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram showing an electrical configuration of the ion generator according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The ion generator shown in FIG. 1 includes an ion generating element 10 including a first discharge unit 11 and a second discharge unit 12, and a voltage application circuit 20a that applies a predetermined voltage to the ion generating element 10. The voltage application circuit 20 a includes a step-up transformer 8 that applies a predetermined voltage to the first discharge unit 11 and step-up transformers 9 and 29 that apply a predetermined voltage to the second discharge unit 12.

  The voltage application circuit 20a is a primary circuit of a transformer that receives power from the input power supply 1, and includes an input resistor 2, a rectifier diode 3, a capacitor 4, flywheel diodes 5, 6a, 6b, and a transformer driving switching element (none Gate 2 terminal thyristor: Sidac [product name of Shindengen Electric Industry]) 7, switch 17, microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as microcomputer) 30, and humidity sensor 31.

  When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source, the capacitor 4 is charged by the voltage of the input power source 1 through the input resistor 2 and the rectifier diode 3. If the voltage across the capacitor 4 becomes equal to or higher than the specified voltage, the transformer driving switching element 7 is turned on and the switch 17 is switched to the step-up transformer 9 side. When a voltage is applied to the series circuit of 8a and the primary side winding 9a of the step-up transformer 9 and the switch 17 is switched to the step-up transformer 29 side, the primary side winding 8a of the step-up transformer 8 and the step-up transformer A voltage is applied to a series circuit of the transformer 29 with the primary winding 29a. Immediately after that, the energy charged in the capacitor 4 is converted into a series circuit of the primary side winding 8a and the primary side winding 9a or a series circuit of the primary side winding 8a and the primary side winding 29a, a transformer It is discharged through the drive switching element 7, the voltage across the capacitor 4 returns to zero, is charged again, and is repeatedly charged and discharged at a specified period.

  Here, the switch 17 is controlled to be switched by the microcomputer 30. When the switch 17 is switched, the primary side winding 8a of the step-up transformer 8, the primary side winding 9a of the step-up transformer 9, and the step-up transformer 29 are switched. Either one of the primary side windings 29a is connected. The humidity sensor 31 detects the humidity H in the vicinity of the ion generator shown in FIG. 1, for example, in the vicinity of the ion generating element 10, and supplies the detected humidity data to the microcomputer 30. When the humidity H does not exceed 65% RH (humidity H <65% RH) based on the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31, the microcomputer 30 switches the switch 17 to the step-up transformer 9 side, that is, the step-up transformer. When the primary side winding 8a of the transformer 8 and the primary side winding 9a of the step-up transformer 9 are switched so as to be connected, while the humidity H exceeds, for example, 65% RH (humidity H> 65 % RH) switches the switch 17 so that the step-up transformer 29 side, that is, the primary-side winding 8a of the step-up transformer 8 and the primary-side winding 29a of the step-up transformer 29 are connected. Note that the value of the humidity H at which the switch 17 is switched in this way can be made variable.

  Next, the secondary circuit of the transformer will be described. The secondary winding 8b of the step-up transformer 8 is connected to the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge unit 11, and the secondary windings 9b and 29b of the step-up transformers 9 and 29 are the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge unit 12. Are connected in parallel to the induction electrode 12b. The step-up transformer 8 and each electrode, and the step-up transformers 9 and 29 and each electrode are applied between the polarity of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b and between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b. The polarity of the applied voltage is reversed.

  When the transformer driving switching element 7 of the primary side circuit is turned on, the energy on the primary side becomes the secondary winding 8b of the step-up transformer 8 and the secondary winding 9b of the step-up transformer 9 or the secondary of the step-up transformer 29. An impulse waveform of an alternating voltage is transmitted to the winding 29b and is applied to both ends of the secondary winding 8b of the step-up transformer 8 and both ends of the secondary winding 9b of the step-up transformer 9 or both ends of the secondary winding 29b of the step-up transformer 29. Applied.

  Here, the turns ratio of the primary winding 9a and the secondary winding 9b of the step-up transformer 9 is set to be substantially equal to the turns ratio of the primary winding 8a and the secondary winding 8b of the step-up transformer 8. The peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 9b is set to be approximately equal to the peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 8b. On the other hand, the turns ratio of the primary winding 29a and the secondary winding 29b of the step-up transformer 29 is set larger than the turns ratio of the primary winding 8a and the secondary winding 8b of the step-up transformer 8; The peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 29b is made larger than the peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 8b.

  Therefore, when the switch 17 is switched to the step-up transformer 9 side, that is, when the humidity H <65% RH, the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 Is substantially equal to the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge part 11, and when the switch 17 is switched to the step-up transformer 29 side, that is, When the humidity H> 65% RH, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 is the same as that of the discharge electrode 11a of the first discharge unit 11 and induction. It becomes larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the electrodes 11b.

  Not only the secondary winding 8b of the step-up transformer 8 but also the cathode of the diode 13 is connected to the discharge electrode 11a. The anode of the diode 13 is connected to one side of the ground or input power supply 1. Further, not only the secondary windings 9b and 29b of the step-up transformers 9 and 29 but also the anode of the diode 14 is connected to the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge unit 12, and the cathode of the diode 14 is connected to the ground or the input power source 1 Is connected to one side. When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source, since one side of the input AC commercial power source is grounded in Japan, an electric device without a ground terminal can obtain the same function if connected to one side of the input power source 1. . Even if the outlet is inserted reversely, only 100V is applied and it is the same that it is grounded.

  By connecting the diode 13 to the discharge electrode 11a of the first discharge unit 11, the voltage of the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b is connected to the ground terminal, and in some cases, one side of the input power source 1 (the side to which the diodes 13 and 14 are connected). ) Is a waveform in which the impulse waveform applied to the secondary winding 8b is positively biased, and negative ions generated from the first discharge unit 11 are neutralized on the discharge electrode 11a. , Positive ions are repelled and released.

  In addition, the diode 14 is connected to the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge unit 12, so that the voltage of the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b is connected to the ground terminal, and in some cases, one side of the input power source 1 (the diodes 13 and 14 are connected). The voltage waveform with reference to the second side) is a waveform in which the impulse waveform applied to the secondary winding 9b or the secondary winding 29b is negatively biased, and the positive ions generated from the second discharge section 12 are discharged. Neutralizing on the electrode 12a, negative ions are repelled and released.

The positive ion is H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m , and the negative ion is O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (m and n are natural numbers, meaning that there are a plurality of H ₂ O molecules) It is.

Thus, ions emitted from the first discharge unit 11 become positive ions, and ions emitted from the second discharge unit 12 become negative ions. That is, both positive and negative ions are released individually. _{^{Then, H + (H 2 O)}} m and O ₂ in the air ^- by releasing both of (H ₂ O) _n, these ions surrounds around the floating mold bacteria and viruses in the air, in which It can be inactivated by the action of the hydroxyl radical (.OH) of the generated active species.

The above description will be described in detail. By applying an AC voltage between the electrodes constituting the first discharge part 11 and the second discharge part 12, oxygen or moisture in the air is ionized by receiving energy by ionization, and H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m Ions mainly composed of (m is an arbitrary natural number) and O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary natural number) are generated, and these are released into the space by a fan or the like. These H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m and O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n adhere to the surface of the floating bacteria and chemically react to generate H ₂ O ₂ or (.OH) as an active species. Since H ₂ O ₂ or (.OH) shows extremely strong activity, they can surround and inactivate airborne bacteria in the air. Here, (.OH) is one kind of active species, and represents radical OH.

Hydrogen peroxide H ₂ O ₂ or hydroxyl radical (OH), which is an active species, oxidizes or decomposes harmful substances to form chemical substances such as formaldehyde and ammonia, harmless substances such as carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen It can be made substantially harmless by converting to.

  Accordingly, the ion generator and the blower fan shown in FIG. 1 are mounted on an electrical device, and the positive and negative ions generated by the ion generator shown in FIG. 1 are sent out of the main body by driving the blower fan. Can do. And by the action of these positive ions and negative ions, it is possible to inactivate mold and fungi in the air and suppress their growth.

  In addition, positive ions and negative ions have a function to inactivate viruses such as Coxsackie virus and polio virus, and can prevent contamination due to contamination of these viruses.

  In addition, it has been confirmed that positive ions and negative ions have a function of decomposing molecules that cause odors, and can be used to deodorize spaces.

  Next, the configuration of the ion generating element 10 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a side sectional view showing the configuration of the ion generating element 10. The ion generating element 10 includes a dielectric 15 (upper dielectric 15a and lower dielectric 15b), and a first discharge unit 11 (discharge electrode 11a, induction electrode 11b, discharge electrode contact 11c, induction electrode contact 11d, connection terminal 11e. 11f and connection paths 11g and 11h) and the second discharge part 12 (discharge electrode 12a, induction electrode 12b, discharge electrode contact 12c, induction electrode contact 12d, connection terminals 12e and 12f, and connection paths 12g and 12h) And a coating layer 16.

  The dielectric 15 is formed by bonding a substantially rectangular parallelepiped upper dielectric 15a and a lower dielectric 15b (for example, 15 [mm] in length × 37 [mm] in width × 0.45 [mm] in thickness). If an inorganic material is selected as the material of the dielectric 15, ceramics such as high-purity alumina, crystallized glass, forsterite, and steatite can be used. In addition, if an organic material is selected as the material of the dielectric 15, a resin such as polyimide or glass epoxy having excellent oxidation resistance is preferable. However, in view of corrosion resistance, it is desirable to select an inorganic material as the material of the dielectric 15, and in view of formability and ease of electrode formation described later, it is preferable to use ceramic. .

  Further, since it is desirable that the insulation resistance between the discharge electrodes 11a, 12a and the induction electrodes 11b, 12b is uniform, the material of the dielectric 15 is such that the density variation is small and the insulation rate is uniform. Is preferred.

  The shape of the dielectric 15 may be other than a substantially rectangular parallelepiped (such as a disk, an ellipse, or a polygon), and may be a column, but considering productivity. As in the present embodiment, it is preferable to have a flat plate shape (including a disk shape and a rectangular parallelepiped shape).

  The discharge electrodes 11a and 12a are formed integrally with the upper dielectric 15a on the surface of the upper dielectric 15a. As a material for the discharge electrodes 11a and 12a, any material can be used without particular limitation as long as it has conductivity, such as tungsten. However, it does not cause deformation such as melting by discharge.

  The induction electrodes 11b and 12b are provided in parallel with the discharge electrodes 11a and 12a with the upper dielectric 15a interposed therebetween. With this arrangement, the distance between the discharge electrodes 11a, 12a and the induction electrodes 11b, 12b (hereinafter referred to as the interelectrode distance) can be made constant, so that the insulation resistance between the two electrodes can be made uniform. It is possible to stabilize the discharge state and suitably generate positive ions and / or negative ions. In the case where the dielectric 15 is cylindrical, the discharge electrodes 11a and 12a are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder, and the induction electrodes 11b and 12b are provided in an axial shape so that the distance between the electrodes is constant. Can do.

  As the material of the induction electrodes 11b and 12b, like the discharge electrodes 11a and 12a, any material can be used without particular limitation as long as it has conductivity, such as tungsten. The condition is not to wake up.

  The discharge electrode contacts 11c and 12c are connected to the discharge electrodes 11a and 12g through the connection terminals 11e and 12e and the connection paths 11g and 12g provided on the same formation surface as the discharge electrodes 11a and 12a (that is, the surface of the upper dielectric 15a). It is electrically connected to 12a. Therefore, if one end of a lead wire (copper wire, aluminum wire, etc.) is connected to the discharge electrode contacts 11c, 12c and the other end of the lead wire is connected to the secondary winding and diode of the transformer, the discharge electrode 11a and the booster are connected. The secondary winding 8b of the transformer 8 and the diode 13 can be electrically connected, and the discharge electrode 12a and the secondary winding 9b of the transformer 9, the secondary winding 29b of the transformer 29, and the diode 14 are electrically connected. Can be conducted.

  The induction electrode contacts 11d and 12d are connected to the induction electrodes 11b and 12f via the connection terminals 11f and 12f and the connection paths 11h and 12h provided on the same formation surface as the induction electrodes 11b and 12b (that is, the surface of the lower dielectric 15b). It is electrically connected to 12b. Therefore, if one end of a lead wire (copper wire, aluminum wire, etc.) is connected to the induction electrode contacts 11d and 12d and the other end of the lead wire is connected to the secondary winding and diode of the transformer, the dielectric electrode 11b and the booster are connected. The secondary winding 8b of the transformer 8 can be electrically connected, and the dielectric electrode 12b, the secondary winding 9b of the transformer 9, and the secondary winding 29b of the transformer 29 can be electrically connected. .

  Furthermore, it is desirable that all of the discharge electrode contacts 11c and 12c and the induction electrode contacts 11d and 12d are provided on the surface of the dielectric 15 other than the surface on which the discharge electrodes 11a and 12a are provided. With such a configuration, unnecessary lead wires or the like are not provided on the upper surface of the dielectric 15, so the ion generator shown in FIG. 1 and a blower fan that sends ions generated by the ion generator into the air are provided. In the mounted electrical device, the air flow from the blower fan (not shown) is less likely to be disturbed, and neutralization of positive ions and negative ions can be reduced.

  Considering the above, in the ion generating element 10, the discharge electrode contacts 11 c and 12 c and the induction electrode contacts 11 d and 12 d are all provided on the surface facing the upper surface of the dielectric 15.

  In addition, in the ion generating element 10 shown in FIG. 2, the discharge electrode 11a and the discharge electrode 12a have an acute angle part (not shown), an electric field is concentrated in the part, and it is set as the structure which raise | generates a discharge locally.

  Further, the discharge electrode 11a and the discharge electrode 12a, and the induction electrode 11b and the induction electrode 12b have similar shapes and substantially the same size. As described above, since the insulation resistance between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b and the insulation resistance between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b are substantially the same, the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b. And a voltage having substantially the same absolute value between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b, substantially the same amount of positive ions and negative ions are generated in the first discharge unit 11 and the second discharge unit. Each of 12 will be released.

  In the conventional ion generation apparatus, in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more), the ion generation element on the side that discharges negative ions or the discharge at the discharge unit causes the ion generation element on the side that discharges positive ions or There is a tendency to become more unstable than the discharge at the discharge part, and the amount of negative ions released is reduced or almost no negative ions are released. However, in the ion generator shown in FIG. When a state of> 65% RH is reached, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge part 12 that emits negative ions and the induction electrode 12b is set to the discharge electrode 11a of the first discharge part 11. Since the absolute value of the voltage applied to the induction electrode 11b is larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied to the induction electrode 11b, the discharge in the second discharge unit 12 is performed even in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more). There does not become unstable than the discharge in the first discharge unit 11. Therefore, both positive ions and negative ions can be released stably even in a high humidity environment. The action of these positive ions and negative ions inactivates molds and fungi in the air and proliferates them. Can be suppressed.

  Further, in a low humidity state (for example, 30% RH), that is, the discharge at the ion generating element or discharge part on the side emitting negative ions is more than the discharge at the ion generating element or discharge part on the side releasing positive ions. In a state where it does not become unstable, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge part 12 and the induction electrode 12b that emits negative ions is induced with the discharge electrode 11a of the first discharge part 11. If the voltage is larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied to the electrode 11b, in a low humidity state (for example, 30% RH), the amount of negative ions released becomes larger than the amount of positive ions released. As for negative ions exceeding the amount of ions, the effects of inactivating fungi and fungi in the air by the action of positive ions and negative ions can be wasted. Although the problem that the amount of ozone generation increases and the discharge sound becomes high occurs, in the ion generator shown in FIG. 1, when the humidity H <65% RH is reached, the discharge electrode of the second discharge unit 12 Since the absolute value of the voltage applied between 12a and the induction electrode 12b and the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge part 11 are substantially equal. In a low humidity state (for example, 30% RH), the amount of positive ions and negative ions to be released is substantially equal. Therefore, in a low-humidity environment, it is possible to prevent the generation of ozone and increase the discharge noise, and to release both positive ions and negative ions in a well-balanced and stable manner. It is possible to inactivate mold and fungi in the air by the action of positive ions and negative ions, and to efficiently suppress their growth.

  1 has a circuit configuration in which the primary winding 8a of the step-up transformer 8 and the primary winding 9a of the step-up transformer 9 or the primary winding 29a of the step-up transformer 29 are connected in series. However, it is also possible to adopt a circuit configuration in which the primary winding 8a and the primary winding 9a or the primary winding 29a are connected in parallel.

  In the ion generator shown in FIG. 1, the microcomputer 30 automatically switches the switch 17 based on the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31 according to a previously installed program or the like. The switch 17 may be manually switched so that a person can recognize it.

  FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an electrical configuration of the ion generator according to the second embodiment of the present invention. For convenience of explanation, the same parts as those in the ion generator shown in FIG. The ion generating device shown in FIG. 3 includes the ion generating element 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 and a voltage applying circuit 20b that applies a predetermined voltage to the ion generating element 10, and the voltage applying circuit 20b includes: A step-up transformer 18 that applies a predetermined voltage to the first discharge unit 11 and a step-up transformer 19 that applies a predetermined voltage to the second discharge unit 12 are included. The step-up transformers 18 and 19 are transformers having substantially the same characteristics such as a transformation ratio.

  The voltage application circuit 20b is a primary circuit of a transformer that receives power from the input power supply 1, and includes an input resistor 2, a rectifier diode 3, capacitors 4a, 4b, and 4c, flywheel diodes 5 and 6, and a transformer driving switching element. (Gateless two-terminal thyristor: Sidac [product name of Shindengen Electric Industry]) 7a, 7b, switches 17a, 17b, microcomputer 30, and humidity sensor 31. Here, the capacity of the capacitor 4a and the capacity of the capacitor 4c are substantially equal, and the capacity of the capacitor 4b is larger than the capacity of the capacitor 4c (≈capacitance of the capacitor 4a).

  When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source, the voltage of the input power source 1 charges the capacitor 4 c via the input resistor 2 and the rectifier diode 3. When the voltage across the capacitor 4c becomes equal to or higher than the specified voltage, the transformer driving switching element 7a is turned on, and a voltage is applied to the primary winding 18a of the step-up transformer 18. Immediately after that, the energy charged in the capacitor 4c is discharged through the primary winding 18a and the transformer driving switching element 7a, the voltage across the capacitor 4c returns to zero, is charged again, and is repeatedly charged and discharged at a specified period. .

  When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source and the switch 17a is on (closed), the capacitor 4a is charged via the input resistor 2 and the rectifier diode 3 by the voltage of the input power source 1. The When the voltage across the capacitor 4a becomes equal to or higher than the specified voltage, the transformer driving switching element 7b is turned on and a voltage is applied to the primary winding 19a of the step-up transformer 19. Immediately after that, the energy charged in the capacitor 4a is discharged through the primary winding 19a and the transformer driving switching element 7b, the voltage across the capacitor 4a returns to zero, is charged again, and is repeatedly charged and discharged at a specified period. .

  When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source and the switch 17b is turned on (closed), the voltage of the input power source 1 charges the capacitor 4b via the input resistor 2 and the rectifier diode 3. The When the voltage across the capacitor 4b becomes equal to or higher than the specified voltage, the transformer driving switching element 7b is turned on, and a voltage is applied to the primary winding 19a of the step-up transformer 19. Immediately after that, the energy charged in the capacitor 4b is discharged through the primary winding 19a and the transformer driving switching element 7b, the voltage across the capacitor 4b returns to zero, is charged again, and is repeatedly charged and discharged at a specified period. .

  Here, both the switches 17a and 17b are controlled by the microcomputer 30 so that one of them is turned on (closed) and the other is turned off (opened). The humidity sensor 31 detects the humidity H in the vicinity of the ion generator shown in FIG. 3, for example, in the vicinity of the ion generating element 10, and supplies the detected humidity data to the microcomputer 30. The microcomputer 30 turns on the switch 17a and turns off the switch 17b when the humidity H does not exceed 65% RH (humidity H <65% RH) based on the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31, for example. On the other hand, when the humidity H exceeds, for example, 65% RH (humidity H> 65% RH), the switch 17a is turned off and the switch 17b is turned on. In addition, the value of the humidity H for switching on / off of the switches 17a and 17b in this way can be made variable.

  Next, the secondary circuit of the transformer will be described. The secondary winding 18b of the step-up transformer 18 is connected to the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge unit 11, and the secondary winding 19b of the step-up transformer 19 is connected to the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode of the second discharge unit 12. 12b. The step-up transformer 18 and each electrode, and the step-up transformer 19 and each electrode are applied between the polarity of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b and between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b. They are connected so that the polarity of the voltage is reversed.

  When the transformer driving switching element 7a of the primary side circuit is turned on, the primary side energy of the step-up transformer 18, that is, the discharge energy of the capacitor 4c is transmitted to the secondary winding 18b of the step-up transformer 18 and the secondary side. An impulse waveform of an alternating voltage is applied to both ends of the winding 18b. In addition, when the transformer driving switching element 7b of the primary side circuit is turned on, the energy on the primary side of the step-up transformer 19 is transmitted to the secondary winding 19b of the step-up transformer 19 and to both ends of the secondary winding 19b. Is applied with an impulse waveform of an alternating voltage.

  Here, when the switch 17a is on and the switch 17b is off, that is, when the humidity H <65% RH, the transformer driving switching element 7b is turned on, whereby the primary winding 19a of the step-up transformer 19 is turned on. The given energy is the discharge energy of the capacitor 4a. Since the capacitors 4a and 4c have substantially the same capacity, the primary energy of the step-up transformer 18 and the primary energy of the step-up transformer 19 are substantially equal. Therefore, the peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 19b is substantially equal to the peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 18b. That is, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge part 12 and the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge part 11 It is almost equivalent to the absolute value.

  On the other hand, when the switch 17a is off and the switch 17b is on, that is, when the humidity H> 65% RH, the transformer driving switching element 7b is turned on to be applied to the primary winding 19a of the step-up transformer 19. The energy is the discharge energy of the capacitor 4b. Since the capacitance of the capacitor 4b is larger than the capacitance of the capacitor 4c, the primary side energy of the step-up transformer 19 is larger than the primary side energy of the step-up transformer 18. Therefore, the peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 19b is larger than the peak value of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary winding 18b. That is, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 is the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge unit 11. It becomes larger than the absolute value.

  Not only the secondary winding 18b of the step-up transformer 18 but also the cathode of the diode 13 is connected to the discharge electrode 11a. The anode of the diode 13 is connected to one side of the ground or input power supply 1. Further, not only the secondary winding 19 b of the step-up transformer 19 but also the anode of the diode 14 is connected to the discharge electrode 12 a of the second discharge unit 12, and the cathode of the diode 14 is connected to one side of the ground or the input power source 1. Has been. When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source, since one side of the input AC commercial power source is grounded in Japan, an electric device without a ground terminal can obtain the same function if connected to one side of the input power source 1. . Even if the outlet is inserted reversely, only 100V is applied and it is the same that it is grounded.

  By connecting the diode 13 to the discharge electrode 11a of the first discharge unit 11, the voltage of the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b is connected to the ground terminal, and in some cases, one side of the input power source 1 (the side to which the diodes 13 and 14 are connected). ) Is a waveform in which the impulse waveform applied to the secondary winding 18b is positively biased, and negative ions generated from the first discharge section 11 are neutralized on the discharge electrode 11a. , Positive ions are repelled and released.

  In addition, the diode 14 is connected to the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge unit 12, so that the voltage of the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b is connected to the ground terminal, and in some cases, one side of the input power source 1 (the diodes 13 and 14 are connected). The voltage waveform with respect to the second side) is a waveform in which the impulse waveform applied to the secondary winding 9b is negatively biased, and the positive ions generated from the second discharge part 12 are neutralized on the discharge electrode 12a. However, negative ions are repelled and released.

The positive ion is H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m , and the negative ion is O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (m and n are natural numbers, meaning that there are a plurality of H ₂ O molecules) It is. Thus, both positive and negative ions are individually released, and the effects of releasing both H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m and O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _{n in} the air are as described above. .

  In the conventional ion generation apparatus, in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more), the ion generation element on the side that discharges negative ions or the discharge at the discharge unit causes the ion generation element on the side that discharges positive ions or There is a tendency to become more unstable than the discharge at the discharge part, and the amount of negative ions released is reduced or almost no negative ions are released. However, in the ion generator shown in FIG. When the state becomes> 65% RH, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12 a and the induction electrode 12 b of the second discharge unit 12, that is, the side that emits negative ions, Since the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b is larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b, the second discharge part is also used in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more). Discharge at 2 does not become unstable than the discharge in the first discharge unit 11. Therefore, both positive ions and negative ions can be released stably even in a high humidity environment. The action of these positive ions and negative ions inactivates molds and fungi in the air and proliferates them. Can be suppressed.

  In the ion generator shown in FIG. 3, when the humidity H <65% RH, the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 is Since the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the discharge unit 11 is made substantially equal, in a low humidity state (for example, 30% RH), positive ions and negative ions are released. Is approximately the same amount. Therefore, in a low-humidity environment, it is possible to prevent the generation of ozone and increase the discharge noise, and to release both positive ions and negative ions in a well-balanced and stable manner. It is possible to inactivate mold and fungi in the air by the action of positive ions and negative ions, and to efficiently suppress their growth.

  In addition, a switching element such as a switch is provided on the secondary winding 19b side, and the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 is set to the first discharge unit 11. A method of switching the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b to be larger or substantially equal to the absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b can be considered. When a switching element such as a switch is provided on the secondary winding 19b side, it is necessary to use a switching element such as a switch that has a high withstand voltage. It is advantageous in terms of cost and durability to provide such a switching element on the primary winding 19a side as in this embodiment.

  In the ion generator shown in FIG. 3, the microcomputer 30 automatically switches on / off the switches 17a and 17b based on the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31 according to a program incorporated in advance. The humidity data from 31 may be recognized by a person, and the switches 17a and 17b may be switched manually.

  FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing an electrical configuration of the ion generator according to the third embodiment of the present invention. For convenience of explanation, the same parts as those in the ion generator shown in FIG. The ion generating device shown in FIG. 4 includes the ion generating element 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and a voltage applying circuit 20c that applies a predetermined voltage to the ion generating element 10, and the voltage applying circuit 20c includes: A step-up transformer 18 that applies a predetermined voltage to the first discharge unit 11 and a step-up transformer 19 that applies a predetermined voltage to the second discharge unit 12 are included. The step-up transformers 18 and 19 are transformers having substantially the same characteristics such as a transformation ratio.

  The voltage application circuit 20c is a primary circuit of a transformer that receives power from the input power supply 1, and includes input resistors 22a and 22b, a rectifier diode 3, capacitors 24a and 24b, flywheel diodes 5 and 6, a switching element for driving a transformer. (Gateless two-terminal thyristor: Sidac [product name of Shindengen Electric Industry]) 7, switch 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b, microcomputer 30, and humidity sensor 31.

  The switches 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b are a first state in which the switches 21a, 23a are turned on (closed) and the switches 21b, 23b are turned off (opened), and the switches 21a, 23a are turned off (opened) Switching control is performed by the microcomputer 30 so as to be in any one of the second states in which 21b and 23b are turned on (closed).

  The humidity sensor 31 detects the humidity H in the vicinity of the ion generator shown in FIG. 4, for example, in the vicinity of the ion generating element 10, and provides the detected humidity data to the microcomputer 30. Then, when the humidity H does not exceed 65% RH (humidity H <65% RH) based on the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31, the microcomputer 30 sets the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b to the first. On the other hand, when the humidity H exceeds, for example, 65% RH (humidity H> 65% RH), the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are controlled to be switched to the second state. . In addition, the value of the humidity H at which the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are switched to the first / second state in this way can be made variable.

  In this primary circuit, when the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source and the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are switched to the first state, the input power source 1 voltage is input. The capacitor 24a is charged through the resistor 22a and the rectifier diode 3. When the voltage across the capacitor 24a becomes equal to or higher than the specified voltage, the transformer driving switching element 7 is turned on, and the voltage is applied to the primary windings 18a and 19a of the step-up transformers 18 and 19. Immediately after that, the energy charged in the capacitor 24a is discharged through the primary side windings 18a and 19a and the switching element 7 for driving the transformer, the voltage across the capacitor 24a returns to zero, is charged again, and is charged and discharged at a specified cycle. repeat.

  On the other hand, when the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are switched to the second state, the capacitor 24b is charged by the voltage of the input power supply 1 through the input resistor 22b and the rectifier diode 3. When the voltage across the capacitor 24b becomes equal to or higher than the specified voltage, the transformer driving switching element 7 is turned on, and the voltage is applied to the primary windings 18a and 19a of the step-up transformers 18 and 19. Immediately thereafter, the energy charged in the capacitor 24b is discharged through the primary side windings 18a and 19a and the switching element 7 for driving the transformer, the voltage across the capacitor 24b returns to zero, is charged again, and is charged and discharged at a specified cycle. repeat.

  Next, the secondary circuit of the transformer will be described. The secondary winding 18b of the step-up transformer 18 is connected to the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge unit 11, and the secondary winding 19b of the step-up transformer 19 is connected to the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode of the second discharge unit 12. 12b. The step-up transformer 18 and each electrode, and the step-up transformer 19 and each electrode are applied between the polarity of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b and between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b. They are connected so that the polarity of the voltage is reversed.

  Therefore, when the transformer driving switching element 7 of the primary side circuit is turned on, the energy on the primary side of the step-up transformers 18 and 19, that is, the discharge energy of the capacitor 24 a or the capacitor 24 b becomes the secondary of the step-up transformers 18 and 19. An impulse waveform of an alternating voltage is applied to both ends of the secondary windings 18b and 19b.

  Further, not only the secondary winding 18 b of the step-up transformer 18 but also the cathode of the diode 13 is connected to the discharge electrode 11 a of the first discharge unit 11. The anode of the diode 13 is connected to one side of the ground or input power supply 1. Further, not only the secondary winding 19 b of the step-up transformer 19 but also the anode of the diode 14 is connected to the discharge electrode 12 a of the second discharge unit 12, and the cathode of the diode 14 is connected to one side of the ground or the input power source 1. Has been. When the input power source 1 is an AC commercial power source, since one side of the input AC commercial power source is grounded in Japan, an electric device without a ground terminal can obtain the same function if connected to one side of the input power source 1. . Even if the outlet is inserted reversely, only 100V is applied and it is the same that it is grounded.

  By connecting the diode 13 to the discharge electrode 11a of the first discharge unit 11, the voltage of the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b is connected to the ground terminal, and in some cases, one side of the input power source 1 (the side to which the diodes 13 and 14 are connected). ) Is a waveform in which the impulse waveform applied to the secondary winding 8b is positively biased, and negative ions generated from the first discharge unit 11 are neutralized on the discharge electrode 11a. , Positive ions are repelled and released.

  In addition, the diode 14 is connected to the discharge electrode 12a of the second discharge unit 12, so that the voltage of the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b is connected to the ground terminal, and in some cases, one side of the input power source 1 (the diodes 13 and 14 are connected). The voltage waveform with respect to the second side) is a waveform in which the impulse waveform applied to the secondary winding 9b is negatively biased, and the positive ions generated from the second discharge part 12 are neutralized on the discharge electrode 12a. However, negative ions are repelled and released.

The positive ion is H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m , and the negative ion is O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (m and n are natural numbers, meaning that there are a plurality of H ₂ O molecules) It is. Thus, both positive and negative ions are individually released, and the effects of releasing both H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m and O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _{n in} the air are as described above. .

  Here, the number of times the transformer driving switching element 7 is turned on per unit time, that is, the primary side windings 18a and 19a of the step-up transformers 18 and 19 are given discharge energy of the capacitor 24a or the capacitor 24b per unit time. The number of times the pulse voltage is applied to the first discharge unit 11 and the second discharge unit 12 is such that when the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b are switched to the first state, the capacitor 24a When the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are switched to the second state, they are determined by the charging time for charging the capacitor 24b to the specified voltage.

  The resistance values of the resistors 22a and 22b and the capacitance values of the capacitors 24a and 24b are set such that the time constant of the series circuit of the resistor 22b and the capacitor 24b via the rectifier diode 3 is the same as that of the resistor 22a via the rectifier diode 3. It is set to be smaller than the time constant of the series circuit with the capacitor 24a.

  Therefore, when the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are switched to the second state, the charging time during which the capacitor 24b is charged to the specified voltage is set so that the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b are in the first state. Since the capacitor 24a is shorter than the charging time for charging to the specified voltage when switched, when the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b are switched to the second state, that is, the humidity H is, for example, , The application frequency Fb per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first discharge part 11 and the second discharge part 12 when the humidity exceeds 65% RH (humidity H> 65% RH) is represented by switches 21a, 21b, When 23a and 23b are switched to the first state, that is, when the humidity H does not exceed 65% RH, for example (humidity H <65 Will increase than application times Fa per unit time of the first discharge unit 11 and the pulse voltage applied to the second discharge portion 12 of the RH) (the number of times of application Fa <number of times of application Fb).

  Note that the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b and the microcomputer 30 that controls them are based on the number of application times per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first discharge unit 11 and the second discharge unit 12. It can also be referred to as a means for changing the number of applied times.

  The capacitance values of the capacitors 24a and 24b may be substantially the same, or the capacitance value of the capacitor 24b may be larger than the capacitance value of the capacitor 24a. When the capacitance value of the capacitor 24b is made larger than the capacitance value of the capacitor 24a, the discharge energy of the capacitor 24b becomes larger than the discharge energy of the capacitor 24a. Therefore, the waveform of the impulse waveform induced in the secondary windings 18b and 19b. The absolute value of the voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge unit 11 and between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 is high. When the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b are switched to the second state, that is, when the humidity H exceeds, for example, 65% RH (humidity H> 65% RH), the switch 21a , 21b, 23a, 23b are switched to the first state, that is, when the humidity H does not exceed 65% RH, for example (humidity H <65 RH) is larger than.

  In the conventional ion generation apparatus, in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more), the ion generation element on the side that discharges negative ions or the discharge at the discharge unit causes the ion generation element on the side that discharges positive ions or There is a tendency to become more unstable than the discharge at the discharge part, and the amount of negative ions released is reduced or almost no negative ions are released. However, in the ion generator shown in FIG. When a state of> 65% RH is reached, the pulse voltage applied between the discharge electrode 11a and the induction electrode 11b of the first discharge unit 11 and between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge unit 12 The number of times of application Fb per unit time is increased more than the number of times of application Fa per unit time of the pulse voltage in a low humidity environment (for example, 30% RH). Under high humidity environment (e.g., higher RH 80%) even at, or reduced negative ions amount emitted, never negative ions or longer it is hardly released. Therefore, both positive ions and negative ions can be released stably even in a high humidity environment. The action of these positive ions and negative ions inactivates molds and fungi in the air and proliferates them. Can be suppressed.

  Furthermore, in the ion generator shown in FIG. 4, if the capacitance value of the capacitor 24b is made larger than the capacitance value of the capacitor 24a, the discharge electrode of the first discharge section 11 is obtained when the humidity H> 65% RH. Compared to the case where the absolute value of the voltage applied between 11a and the induction electrode 11b and between the discharge electrode 12a and the induction electrode 12b of the second discharge part 12 is in the state of humidity H <65% RH. Therefore, in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more), it is possible to prevent the discharge in the first discharge unit 11 and the second discharge unit 12 from becoming unstable, and even in a high humidity environment. Both positive ions and negative ions can be released more stably, and the action of these positive ions and negative ions inactivate mold and fungi in the air and suppress their growth. Door can be.

  In the ion generator shown in FIG. 4, when the humidity H <65% RH, the discharge electrode 11 a between the first discharge part 11 and the induction electrode 11 b and the discharge electrode of the second discharge part 12 are obtained. The application frequency Fa per unit time of the pulse voltage applied between 12a and the induction electrode 12b is higher than the application frequency Fb of the pulse voltage per unit time in a high humidity environment (for example, 80% RH or more). Since the amount of ozone is reduced and the discharge noise is increased in a low-humidity environment, it is possible to prevent the increase of discharge noise and the positive ions and negative ions released in a well-balanced manner. It is possible to inactivate mold and fungi in the inside and efficiently suppress their growth.

  The ion generator shown in FIG. 4 has a circuit configuration in which the primary winding 18a of the step-up transformer 18 and the primary winding 19a of the step-up transformer 19 are connected in series. It is also possible to adopt a circuit configuration in which the next winding 19a is connected in parallel.

  In the ion generator shown in FIG. 4, the microcomputer 30 automatically switches on / off the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b based on the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31 by a program incorporated in advance. However, the switches 21a, 21b, 23a, and 23b may be switched manually so that a person can recognize the humidity data from the humidity sensor 31.

  1, 3, and 4, the transformer driving switching elements 7, 7 a, and 7 b are gate-less two-terminal thyristors (Sidac [Shindengen product name]) in the above description. However, a thyristor (SCR) may be used by using a slightly different circuit. Further, even if the input power source 1 is a DC power source, it does not matter if it is a circuit that can obtain the same operation as described above. That is, the primary side drive circuit of this circuit is not particularly limited, and any circuit that can obtain the same operation may be used.

  The ion generator according to the present invention described above may be mounted on an electrical device such as an air conditioner, a dehumidifier, a humidifier, an air cleaner, a refrigerator, a fan heater, a microwave oven, a washing dryer, a vacuum cleaner, or a sterilizer. . And it is good to equip such an electric equipment with the sending means (for example, ventilation fan) which sends out both the positive ion and the negative ion which generate | occur | produced with the ion generator in the air. In such an electric device, in addition to the original function of the device, the action of positive ions and negative ions released from the installed ion generator inactivates molds and fungi in the air to suppress their growth. The indoor environment can be brought into a desired atmosphere state.

  In the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which positive ions and negative ions are individually generated by a single ion generating element having a plurality of discharge units that generate ions, and each is independently released into the room. However, the configuration of the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which positive ions and negative ions are individually generated by a plurality of ion generating elements and each is independently released into the room. It does not matter.

  Further, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the configuration of each part can be appropriately changed and implemented without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

These are circuit diagrams which show the electrical constitution of the ion generator of 1st Embodiment of this invention. These are side surface sectional drawings which show the structure of the ion generating element shown in FIG. These are circuit diagrams which show the electrical constitution of the ion generator of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. These are circuit diagrams which show the electrical constitution of the ion generator of 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Input power supply 2, 22a, 22b Input resistance 3 Rectifier diode 4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 24a, 24b Capacitor 5, 6, 6a, 6b Flywheel diode 7, 7a, 7b Transformer drive switching element 8, 9, 18 , 19, 29 Step-up transformer 10 Ion generating element 11 First discharge part 11a, 12a Discharge electrode 11b, 12b Inductive electrode 11c, 12c Discharge electrode contact 11d, 12d Inductive electrode contact 11e, 11f, 12e, 12f Connecting terminal 11g, 11h, 12g, 12h Connection path 12 2nd discharge part 13, 14 Diode 15 Dielectric 15a Upper dielectric 15b Lower dielectric 16 Coating layer 17, 17a, 17b, 21a, 21b, 23a, 23b Switch (switching means)
20a, 20b, 20c Voltage application circuit 30 Microcomputer (microcomputer, control means)
31 Humidity sensor (humidity detection means)

Claims (12)

It has at least one first discharge part that generates positive ions to be attached or printed on one substrate and second discharge part that generates negative ions, and the first and second discharge parts are Both are provided on the same surface of the base material and separately and independently arranged ion generating elements, and voltage application circuits connected to the first and second discharge parts of the ion generating elements,
The voltage application circuit applies a predetermined voltage to the first and second discharge parts, and the absolute value of the voltage applied between the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge part is: An ion generator characterized in that it is larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part. It has at least one first discharge part that generates positive ions to be attached or printed on one substrate and second discharge part that generates negative ions, and the first and second discharge parts are Both of the ion generating elements arranged on the same surface of the base material and separately provided, a voltage application circuit connected to the first and second discharge parts of the ion generating elements, and the vicinity of the ion generating elements Humidity detection means for detecting the humidity of
The voltage application circuit applies a predetermined voltage to the first and second discharge parts, and when the value detected by the humidity detecting means is a predetermined value or more, the second discharge electrode of the second discharge part and the second discharge electrode The absolute value of the voltage applied between the two induction electrodes is made larger than the absolute value of the voltage applied between the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge part. A featured ion generator. The voltage application circuit includes:
A first step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode, the primary winding being given discharge energy of the first capacitor;
A second step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode and having a transformation ratio substantially equal to that of the first step-up transformer;
A third step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode and having a larger transformation ratio than the first step-up transformer;
First switching means for switching a primary winding to which discharge energy of the first capacitor is applied to either the primary winding of the second step-up transformer or the primary winding of the third step-up transformer;
The ion generator according to claim 1, wherein the ion generator is provided.   When the value detected by the humidity detecting means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the voltage applying circuit includes first switching means so that the discharge energy of the first capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the third step-up transformer. 4. The ion generator according to claim 3, further comprising control means for controlling. The voltage application circuit includes:
A fourth step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode, the primary winding being given the discharge energy of the second capacitor;
A fifth step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode and having substantially the same characteristics as the fourth step-up transformer;
A third capacitor having substantially the same capacity as the second capacitor;
A fourth capacitor having a larger capacity than the second capacitor;
Second switching means for switching the discharge energy applied to the primary winding of the fifth step-up transformer to either the discharge energy of the third capacitor or the discharge energy of the fourth capacitor;
The ion generator according to claim 1, wherein the ion generator is provided.   When the value detected by the humidity detecting means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the voltage applying circuit includes second switching means so that the discharge energy of the fourth capacitor is applied to the primary winding of the fifth step-up transformer. 6. The ion generating apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a control unit for controlling the ion generating apparatus. It has at least one first discharge part that generates positive ions to be attached or printed on one substrate and second discharge part that generates negative ions, and the first and second discharge parts are Both of the ion generating elements arranged on the same surface of the base material and separately provided, a voltage applying circuit for applying a pulse voltage to the first and second discharge parts, and a humidity in the vicinity of the ion generating element Humidity detecting means for detecting
The voltage application circuit has application frequency changing means for changing the number of application times per unit time of the pulse voltage applied to the first and second discharge units based on a value detected by the humidity detection means. An ion generator characterized by the above.   8. The ion generation according to claim 7, wherein the application frequency changing unit increases the application frequency per unit time of the pulse voltage when a value detected by the humidity detection unit is a predetermined value or more. apparatus. The voltage application circuit includes:
A sixth step-up transformer having a secondary winding having both ends connected to the first discharge electrode and the first induction electrode of the first discharge unit;
A seventh step-up transformer having a secondary winding connected at both ends to the second discharge electrode and the second induction electrode of the second discharge section;
Have
The application frequency changing means is
A first state in which the fifth capacitor is charged through the first resistor and the discharge energy of the fifth capacitor charged to a predetermined voltage is applied to the primary windings of the sixth and seventh step-up transformers; The second capacitor is switched to the second state where the sixth capacitor is charged through the resistor 2 and the discharge energy of the sixth capacitor charged to the predetermined voltage is applied to the primary windings of the sixth and seventh step-up transformers. Third switching means;
Control means for controlling the third switching means to switch to the second state when the value detected by the humidity detection means is equal to or greater than the predetermined value;
9. The ion according to claim 8, wherein the time constant of the series circuit of the second resistor and the sixth capacitor is smaller than the time constant of the series circuit of the first resistor and the fifth capacitor. Generator.   The ion generator according to claim 9, wherein the capacity of the sixth capacitor is larger than the capacity of the fifth capacitor. The ion generation according to claim 1, wherein the positive ion is H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m and the negative ion is O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (m and n are natural numbers). apparatus. An electric device comprising: the ion generator according to claim 1; and a sending unit that sends out ions generated by the ion generator into the air.

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